Frequently Asked Questions

The problem is it doesn't necessarily follow that not having any pain, means you don't have any dental problems. Tooth decay and gum disease need to be well advanced before they cause pain. By the time they cause pain treatment becomes more difficult more expensive and time consuming and the outcomes are less predictable. At our check ups we will check your teeth and gums very carefully and advise you of any potential problems. We also check for mouth cancer. If your teeth and gums are completely healthy, we will give you advice on how to keep them that way.

You can either pay by cash, credit/debit card, cheque or mobile money.

Visiting the dentist regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. Dental care is important because it:

• Helps prevent tooth decay
• Protects against periodontal (gum) disease, which can lead to tooth and bone loss
• Prevents bad breath – brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist regularly will help reduce the amount of bad-breath causing bacteria in your mouth
• Gives you a more attractive smile and increases your self-confidence
• Helps keep teeth looking bright by preventing them from becoming stained by food, drinks, and tobacco
• Strengthens your teeth so that you can enjoy healthy, beautiful smiles for the rest of your life!

A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth because of tooth decay. Cavities are formed when plaque buildup on the outside of the tooth combines with sugars and starches in the food you eat. This produces an acid that can eat away the enamel on your tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral health problems. Cavities can be prevented by remembering to brush your teeth at least two times a day and floss between teeth at least once.

If you experience a dental emergency, contact our office immediately. For severe pain, knocked-out teeth, or serious injury to your mouth, we offer emergency dental services. In the meantime:

• For a knocked-out tooth, keep it moist in milk or between your cheek and gums
• For a cracked tooth, rinse with warm water and apply a cold compress
• For toothache, rinse with warm water and gently floss to remove any food

Yes, we offer professional teeth whitening services that are safe and effective. We provide both in-office whitening treatments and take-home whitening kits. Our in-office treatment can significantly whiten your teeth in just one visit, while our take-home kits offer gradual whitening at your convenience. During your consultation, we'll help determine which option is best for your needs and discuss how to maintain your brighter smile.

During your first visit, we'll conduct a comprehensive dental examination that includes:

• Review of your dental and medical history
• Digital X-rays to detect any hidden dental issues
• Oral cancer screening
• Gum disease evaluation
• Examination of tooth decay and existing restorations
• Discussion of your dental concerns and treatment goals

We'll then create a personalized treatment plan based on our findings and your specific needs.

Yes, dental care during pregnancy is not only safe but recommended. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect your oral health, making regular dental check-ups important. We take extra precautions with pregnant patients, such as:

• Using lead-free protective aprons for X-rays when necessary
• Scheduling treatments during the second trimester when possible
• Choosing pregnancy-safe medications and anesthetics
• Providing specific oral care advice for pregnancy-related dental issues

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the protective enamel wears down or gums recede, exposing the sensitive dentin underneath. Common causes include:

• Aggressive brushing
• Teeth grinding
• Acidic foods and beverages
• Tooth decay or worn fillings

Treatment options include using desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, bonding, or gum grafts, depending on the cause and severity. We can evaluate your specific situation and recommend the most effective treatment.

Regular dental exams are crucial for maintaining good oral health and preventing serious issues. During these exams:

• A dental hygienist will thoroughly clean buildup from your teeth
• The dentist will examine your teeth and gums using special tools
• Early signs of problems can be detected and treated before they become more serious and costly
• You'll receive personalized advice for maintaining your oral health

We recommend getting an exam every 6 months, though some patients may need more frequent visits based on their oral health needs. Our friendly team strives to make each visit comfortable and stress-free. For parents, maintaining a positive attitude about dental visits can help children develop healthy attitudes toward dental care and overcome any fears they might have.