Why is a professional clean so important?

Here at Kitchener Street Dental in Toowoomba, Queensland, our team of dental professionals are  passionate about sharing valuable information about preventive dental care so that our patients can learn the best methods to maintain good oral hygiene.

If you are one of the many patients who indulged their sweet tooth over the holidays, then now may be a good time to visit us here At Kitchener Street Dental in Toowoomba, Queensland, for your clean and regular dental check-up.

Why is a professional clean so important?

While we strongly recommend following a consistent oral care routine, such as brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day (after eating food if possible) these cleaning techniques cannot completely care for your teeth. Food and other particles can lodge under the gum line where your toothbrush cannot reach. If left untreated, over time this can cause tooth decay (cavities) and periodontal (gum) disease.

Often, the first signs of ill gum health are when you notice bleeding while brushing or flossing your teeth, commonly known as gingivitis. Your gums are bleeding because they are inflamed, and inflammation is a result of built-up and stubborn bacteria in the crevices and pockets around and under your teeth. That is why here at Kitchener Street Dental in Toowoomba we like to see our patients visit us every six months for a professional clean and evaluation. Our experienced dentists and hygienists will use professional cleaning technologies and tools to remove bacteria and plaque (sticky film like substance that is invisible to the naked eye) to provide a thorough clean, restore your oral health, and to detect any potential oral problems before they arise.

In the long run, having your teeth professionally cleaned and visiting us for a general check-up will save you expensive dental procedures in the future as well as protecting your overall health.

How can I care for my teeth after my professional clean?

Did you know there is actually a proper way to brush? Proper brushing takes at least two minutes. Most adults do not come close to brushing that long. Tilt the brush at a 45° angle against the gum line and sweep or roll the brush away from the gum line and use short, gentle strokes. Pay extra attention to the gum line, hard-to-reach back teeth and areas around fillings, crowns or other restoration.

• Clean the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth
• Clean the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth
• Clean the chewing surfaces
• Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and to freshen your breath. 

What Type of Toothbrush Should I Use?

A soft-bristled brush or powered toothbrush is best for removing plaque and debris from your teeth. Small-headed brushes are also preferable, since they can get the hard to reach areas of the mouth, including hard-to-reach back teeth.

How important is the Toothpaste I Use?

Today there is a wide variety of toothpaste designed for many conditions, including cavities, gingivitis, tartar, stained teeth and sensitivity. During your general check-up and clean our dentist can assess your mouth and can recommend the best toothpaste option based on your dental needs.

How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?

You should replace your toothbrush when it begins to show wear, or every three months, whichever comes first. It is also very important to change toothbrushes after you’ve had a cold, since the bristles can collect germs that can lead to reinfection.

At Kitchener Street Dental in Toowoomba we believe that preventive dentistry can help avoid dental problems at the onset. By maintaining a consistent oral health regime, practising proper cleaning techniques and visiting us for your regular clean and oral evaluation you are on the road to keeping your teeth for a lifetime.