Dental advice you can use

Two minutes, a soft brush and a slow pattern beats scrubbing hard. Here is the routine we teach in the chair.

Use a soft-bristled brush and a fluoride toothpaste. Hard bristles and heavy pressure wear down gum and enamel over time.

Angle the brush about 45 degrees toward the gumline and use short, gentle strokes. Spend about 30 seconds on each quarter of your mouth.

Do not forget the inner surfaces of your front teeth and the chewing surfaces at the back.

Brush twice a day, and replace your brush every three months or when the bristles splay.

Does bleeding mean stop? How often? Floss or water flosser? Straight answers.

Cleaning between your teeth once a day removes plaque a brush cannot reach.

Bleeding gums usually point to inflammation from plaque left in place. Keep cleaning gently; if bleeding continues for more than a week or two, book a check-up.

Water flossers and interdental brushes are good options if string floss is hard for you. The best method is the one you will use daily.

No surprises: a look at your teeth and gums, a clean, and a plan you understand.

We start by asking about any pain, sensitivity or changes since your last visit.

We then examine your teeth, gums and bite, and take x-rays only when they are needed to see what is hidden.

A professional clean removes hardened plaque (tartar) that brushing cannot. We finish by explaining what we found and what, if anything, needs treatment.

Why professional whitening differs from the strips on the shelf, and who should wait.

Whitening lightens stains inside and on the surface of teeth. It does not change the colour of fillings, crowns or veneers.

Sensitivity for a day or two is common. Tell us if you have sensitive teeth or gum problems first; we may treat those before whitening.

Coffee, tea, red wine and smoking bring stains back. Rinsing with water after them helps.

Simple things parents can do before the first appointment.

Keep the language positive and simple. Avoid words like hurt or needle when talking about the visit.

Bring your child early, even without a problem, so the first visit is just a look around and a friendly count of teeth.

Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, using a rice-grain smear of fluoride toothpaste for under-threes, and a pea-sized amount after that.

Practical first steps, and the signs that mean you should call right away.

Rinse gently with warm water and floss around the tooth to clear trapped food.

A cold compress on the cheek can ease swelling. Over-the-counter pain relief can help if it is safe for you; follow the label.

Call us promptly if you have swelling in your face or jaw, a fever, trouble swallowing, or pain that wakes you at night.