FAQ | Straits Dental | Useful Information

Book Appointment

Please feel free to send a text message at +65 8878 8934 or call us directly at any of our dental clinics to schedule an appointment. We are happy to set up a consultation or answer any questions you have.

Name:

*Required

Email:

*Required Invalid Email Format *

Contact Number:

*Required Invalid Number Format (Min: 8 Digits) *

Service:

*Required

Location:

*Required

Captcha:

I agree to the collection, usage and disclosure of my personal data provided in this form in accordance with Straits Dental Group Data Protection Policy

*You must select this box to proceed.

GENERAL

Are regular dental cleanings necessary?

Here at Straits Dental Group, we know how busy life can be. Fitting a dental appointment into your busy schedule seems to be one of the most difficult things you have to do. Proper oral hygiene is difficult to maintain. Brushing for two minutes twice a day, and flossing after every meal will keep many oral hygiene problems away, but not all.

Scheduling a cleaning at Straits Dental Group twice a year is highly recommended to maintain proper oral hygiene and catch problems before they become costly and painful.

Do I need to see a dentist even if my teeth feel fine?

It is very important to schedule regular cleanings. There are many problems which can exist without you knowing. Not only can we identify problems before they become a painful and expensive experience, but we can also help to keep your smile looking beautiful.

How do I know If I have gum disease?

Gum disease is also called periodontal disease. Plaque and bacteria build up in a patient's mouth. When this build up is not treated in the early stages, it can cause gum disease. Periodontal disease can also be caused by smoking and chewing tobacco, teeth grinding, certain medications and genetics. Advanced forms of periodontal disease can cause bone and tooth loss as well as permanent damage. We recommend brushing and flossing every day, as well as scheduling dental appointments every six months is the best way to fight gum disease.

Abscessed teeth
Extreme tooth sensitivity
Chronic bad breath
Loose teeth and or loss of teeth
Red, swollen or bleeding gums
Receding gum line

USEFUL INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS

When should I change my tooth brush?

We recommend at least every three months.
If you are using an electronic toothbrush, make sure to check the recommendation of the type of toothbrush because you may not have to change the head of the brush often.
If a patient has gum disease, we recommend that you change your brush more often than every three months.

At what age should I bring my child to see the dentist?

Recommendations by professionals throughout the dental industry, as well as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), is as early as six months of age.

However, at Straits Dental Group, we suggest for the child to come for the first visit between the ages of 2 to 3 years. We will be better able to examine your child’s teeth and make appropriate recommendations.

Do teeth need fluoride?

Fluoride helps make teeth strong and prevents decay. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dental Association (ADA) agree that kids should use fluoride toothpaste for brushing, taking care not to swallow it.

Adults benefit from using fluoride to protect their teeth, too.

Does a rinse or mouthwash help?

Mouthwashes for cavity protection, sensitivity, and fresh breath may help when you use them with regular brushing and flossing - but not instead of daily cleanings.

Some people need twice-daily rinses for gum health or alcohol-free washes for dry mouth.

Kids who are under 6 years of age should not use mouthwash to avoid the chance of them swallowing it.

OTHERS

What do dental hygienists do?

Dental hygienists provide individualised and systematic oral health care. They examine your mouth and address concerns related to your oral health.

In addition, dental hygienists perform preventive procedures such as scaling and polishing, taking X-rays, apply fluoride to prevent decay; and provide support for healthy lifestyle choices in the form of smoking cessation strategies, and oral health counselling.

Are dental X-rays safe and needed?

Medical and dental experts study the use of X-rays and set limits for their safety.

Expect to get them during a first exam after not seeing a dentist for a while. This helps check tooth and gum health. If you have gum disease, the dentist may want X-rays every 6 months. For regular check-ups, it is about every 2 years, depending on your oral condition.

Kids have more X-rays done than adults because their teeth are changing and because they get cavities more easily.