Questions and Answers

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Dencover was developed by Dr David James, a dentist with 20 years experience and he’s regularly asked all sorts of questions about dental hygiene. Here’s just a small selection that we thought you might like to know about:

Q Is an electric toothbrush more effective than an ordinary toothbrush?

A “Yes I would certainly recommend one and, from experience, I have found that sonic toothbrushes are particularly good as they are both thorough and gentle.”

Q When should I take my child to the dentist for her first check-up?

A “I always suggest that three years old is the ideal time.”

Q How can I tell if my teeth are really clean?

A “The most effective way is to use disclosing tablets – these leave a temporary stain on your teeth and gum-line in those areas where plaque is present so you can actually see for yourself how effective your brushing has been - ask your dental hygienist to provide some for you.”

Q At what age should my child be assessed for a brace, and can my dentist do this or will we have to go to an orthodontist?

A “This very much depends on each individual case, but as a guide an assessment by the age twelve is usually advised. General dentists can normally make that assessment, but an orthodontic specialist is often recommended for the treatment plan.”

Q Is it necessary to visit my dentist every six months, or is an annual visit enough?

A “Obviously individual cases vary, but it is safest to maintain the conventional six monthly interval unless advised otherwise.”

Q At what age should you start flossing?

A “Generally in the teenage years.”

Q Sometimes my gums bleed whilst cleaning them - should I visit my dentist for a check-up?

A “Yes – bleeding when brushing is the first sign of gum disease, so a routine appointment is definitely recommended.”

Q I eat a lot of fresh fruit everyday, including apples, oranges and berries – are these damaging to my teeth?

A “Obviously fruit is extremely beneficial to overall health – the only recommendation I would make is to avoid excess consumption of acid fruits and their juices.”

Q Do dental whitening products damage your teeth?

A “Coarse toothpastes, those designed for smokers for example, scour the tooth surface and I wouldn’t personally recommend them. However, none of the tooth whitening chemicals contained in such toothpastes are harmful the teeth at all.”

Q Am I doing the right thing by using a mouthwash twice a day?

A “Mouthwashes do not replace proper, effective brushing and flossing, and should only be relied upon to freshen the breath.”

If you have any particular concerns about your dental health, please seek professional advice from your dentist. And if you think you have an interesting question that you think should be featured on this page, please drop us an email on care@Dencover.com