Frequently asked questions

Bleeding gums are usually an early sign of gum disease. A professional clean and an assessment of your gum health will normally sort it out — the sooner, the easier. See our gum disease treatment.

Persistent bad breath most often comes from gum disease or tooth decay, but food, smoking, and throat or digestive issues can also play a part. A check-up is the fastest way to find the cause.

Grinding or clenching your teeth at night — often stress-related — is a common hidden cause of morning headaches, and it damages teeth too. A custom night splint can help.

Sensitivity usually means the softer dentine under your enamel is exposed — from gum recession, decay, acid erosion or brushing too hard. We can find the cause and treat it.

Only if they are causing (or likely to cause) trouble, such as impaction or infection. We assess each case on x-ray and give you an honest recommendation. See wisdom teeth removal.

Modern anaesthetics mean treatment shouldn't hurt. If you ever feel discomfort, tell us and we'll stop and fix it — you're always in control.

No — professional whitening done safely won't cause permanent damage. Some people get temporary sensitivity that settles within a day or two.

X-rays reveal decay between teeth and problems under the gum that simply can't be seen by eye. Most patients only need them about every two years.

Every six months suits most people. If you're prone to gum disease, three-monthly cleans keep it under control.

From around age two — and definitely before the adult teeth start arriving around age six. Early visits are short, friendly and build confidence.

Keep it positive and matter-of-fact — a fun visit where someone counts their teeth. Avoid words like 'hurt' or 'needle', even reassuringly; kids hear the scary part.

For under-sixes, yes — your presence is reassuring. Older kids often do better on their own, and we'll guide you on what works.

There's no strong evidence of long-term harm if it's phased out before the adult teeth come through, though prolonged use may affect speech development.

At least twice a day — and the night-time brush is the most important one. Wait about 30 minutes after acidic food or drink before brushing.

Yes — brushing alone misses roughly half of each tooth's surface. Once a day is enough.

With good technique, a manual brush cleans just as well. Electric brushes mostly help people who tend to miss areas.

It's a useful add-on and can reduce gingivitis, but it can't replace the physical cleaning of brushing and flossing.

Any major-brand fluoride toothpaste is fine for most people. If you have specific needs — sensitivity, high decay risk — we'll recommend something targeted.