Check-up and cleans at Northbridge Dentists

Many issues can be identified and either prevented or treated early with regular check-ups at your local Northbridge dental clinic. For children, we recommend introducing them to the dentist at an early age, simply to get them used to the environment. Your Northbridge dentist can also guide you in how to care for your teeth at home. Professionally cleaning stubborn plaque and calculus can help to prevent decay starting as well as helping to limit gum disease (gingivitis and periodontal disease). Sometimes dentists will advise radiographs (x-rays) to check in-between back teeth and apply fluoride at the end, which, when done twice a year can reduce decay by up to 30% in adult teeth.

FAQs

How does Fluoride help teeth?

• During formation: Fluoride is incorporated into the tooth enamel during formation. 

• Protection from decay: When a tooth is exposed to fluoride, a reservoir of calcium fluoride is formed on the tooth surface which can be released for remineralisation. It essentially hardens the weakened enamel in early decay.

• Antibacterial action: Fluoride has been shown to interfere with the metabolic activity and growth of decay-causing micro-organisms.

How often do I need x-rays?

We generally advise routine x-rays every 2 years to check between back teeth. However patients with higher risks of decay and disease may need them more regularly. We may also take x-rays to check specific teeth.