Frequently Asked Questions

Robina Dental Services and Oral Hygiene

When should I start brushing baby’s teeth?

Robina Dental Services. We recommend that you start cleaning your baby’s teeth at least once a day as soon as you can see a tooth emerging. By starting early, your baby will become used to having her teeth cleaned.

Remember your baby’s gums will feel tender, make sure you are not too vigorous when brushing and use a small head soft brush with a very small amount low-fluoride toothpaste.

When should I start bringing my child in to the dentist?

We generally recommend about the age of 3 years is an appropriate age. All their baby teeth are through by then along with a certain level of maturity so that they are not frightened by what they first see when they walk into the surgery

What to do when a Baby tooth falls out?

Usually you will not need to do anything, except call the tooth fairy! But if bleeding does not stop on its own – place a gauze pad, clean washcloth or tea towel over the bleeding area. Keep it in place for 15 minutes, repeat as necessary.

How long should I keep brushing my child’s teeth?

At about the age of 8 children generally develop the dexterity to properly brush their own teeth. However this should still be done under supervision until they reach 10 years of age just to make sure that are carefully brushing all surfaces.

What do I do if a tooth is dislodged or knocked out?

Forgot the mouth guard or just fell off the bike! Don’t worry, what you need to do is then try to push it back into place if the tooth is dislodged and come and see Dentist Robina as soon as possible. If you can’t place it yourself then we can do it for you in the surgery. If the tooth is knocked out then place it into a glass of milk and call us as soon as you can. We can actually get the tooth back in but further treatment will be required.

How often should I get my teeth checked?

We usually recommend getting them checked and cleaned at least every 6 months. It allows us to monitor any early decay as well as remove any tarter to prevent gum disease. Most health funds cover you for two check-ups each year.

I don’t have any pain in my teeth. Why do I need to get them checked?

It’s a common myth that a hole in your tooth will cause pain. Most of the time it doesn’t until it becomes quite large by which time treatment of the tooth will become more complicated and more expensive. Early detection and treatment of decay is easier and cheaper.

I clean my teeth regularly but I still have bad breath. What I am doing wrong?

Research indicates that bad breath is influenced more by dietary factors as well as bacteria accumulation on your tongue. Cleaning your tongue with a special tongue cleaner as well as assessing your diet can lead to great improvement in your breath. Call us to discuss.

What to do about a Lost Filling or Crown?

A lost filling can be unsightly. It can also be painful because the exposed tissue is often sensitive to temperature, pressure or air. The best action is to make an appointment for Robina Dental Services as soon as possible and have the filling replaced.

Similarly if you lose a dental crown put it in a safe place and make an appointment to see us as soon as you can.