Patient Resources
Practical guidance to help you care for your teeth before and after treatment. This information is general; always follow advice from your own dentist.
How to maintain good oral hygiene
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, angling the brush towards the gum line.
- Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months or when bristles fray.
- Limit sugary snacks and acidic drinks, especially between meals.
- Avoid tobacco in all forms.
- See your dentist for check-ups as advised — usually every six months.
When to seek a dental consultation
- Toothache, sensitivity that lingers, or pain on biting
- Bleeding, swollen or receding gums
- A broken, chipped or loose tooth
- Swelling of the face or gums — seek prompt care
- Mouth ulcers that do not heal within two weeks
- Difficulty chewing or a change in your bite
Dental implant care and maintenance
- Brush around implant crowns twice daily with a soft brush.
- Use interdental brushes, implant floss or a water flosser as recommended.
- Do not smoke — it increases the risk of implant problems.
- Attend regular reviews and professional cleaning.
- Report bleeding, swelling, looseness or discomfort promptly.
What to expect during a root canal consultation
- Your dentist will ask about your symptoms and test the tooth's response to cold or touch.
- An X-ray is taken to view the roots and surrounding bone.
- Options are explained — root canal treatment, retreatment or, if a tooth cannot be saved, extraction and replacement.
- You'll receive an estimate including the crown, if needed.
Caring for braces and aligners
- Brush after meals and use an interproximal brush around brackets.
- Avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods with fixed braces.
- Wear aligners for the hours prescribed (often 20–22 hours a day) and clean them daily.
- Keep aligners in their case when not wearing them.
- Wear retainers exactly as advised after treatment.
Children's oral hygiene
- Clean gums with a soft cloth before teeth erupt.
- Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste for children under three and a pea-sized amount from three to six.
- Supervise brushing until around age 7–8.
- Avoid sugary drinks in bottles, especially at bedtime.
- Plan the first dental visit around the first birthday.
Common dental concerns and prevention
- Tooth decay: reduce sugar frequency and use fluoride.
- Gum disease: daily cleaning between teeth and regular professional cleaning.
- Sensitivity: use desensitising toothpaste and avoid aggressive brushing.
- Bad breath: clean your tongue, stay hydrated and treat gum problems.
- Tooth wear: discuss night guards if you grind your teeth.
Post-treatment care instructions
- After extraction: bite on gauze, avoid spitting or using straws for 24 hours, eat soft foods.
- After implant surgery: cold packs on day one, soft diet, keep the area clean as instructed.
- After fillings: avoid chewing until numbness wears off.
- After whitening: avoid strongly coloured foods and drinks for 48 hours.
- Always follow the specific written instructions given by your dentist.
Post-treatment instructions are general and must be reviewed by the clinic before publication. Clinic review required