Practical guides for healthier teeth

Preparing for your appointment

A little preparation helps your visit go smoothly.

• Bring a list of the medicines you take and any medical conditions or allergies
• Bring previous dental X-rays or records if you have them
• Write down your questions or concerns
• Mention if you feel anxious — we can adjust the pace
• Eat normally beforehand unless you have been told otherwise

Everyday oral hygiene

Consistent daily habits do most of the work.

• Brush twice a day for about two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
• Clean between your teeth once a day with floss or interdental brushes
• Spit out toothpaste rather than rinsing
• Keep sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes
• Avoid tobacco in all forms

Children's oral health

Healthy habits started early tend to last.

• Start cleaning as soon as the first tooth appears
• Supervise brushing until your child can brush well alone
• Avoid bedtime bottles of milk or juice
• Book a first dental visit around the first tooth or first birthday
• Talk about the dentist positively

Braces and aligner care

Orthodontic appliances need a little extra attention.

• Braces: brush around every bracket and use interdental brushes
• Braces: avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods
• Aligners: wear them for the time advised, usually most of the day
• Aligners: remove them to eat and drink anything except water
• Always wear retainers as instructed after treatment

Implant maintenance

Implants need the same — or more — care as natural teeth.

• Brush carefully where the crown meets the gum
• Use interdental brushes or implant floss daily
• Avoid smoking
• Report bleeding, swelling or looseness promptly
• Attend regular reviews

General treatment aftercare

Always follow the specific instructions your dentist gives you.

• Avoid chewing on numb areas until feeling returns
• Some tenderness after treatment is common and usually settles
• Take any recommended medication only as directed
• Contact the clinic if pain or swelling increases, or you develop a fever
• Seek urgent medical help if swelling affects breathing or swallowing