At Integrity Dental we believe that prevention is better than cure. Regular dental check-ups, efficient home cleaning routines and a balanced diet are the cornerstones of long-term oral health. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Oral Hygiene Care
We recommend visiting our dental hygienist every 6 months for a professional clean. During your hygiene appointment, calculus (tartar) is professionally removed, your diet is discussed, and personalised home care advice is provided to help keep your teeth and gums in excellent health.
Brushing
Brush your teeth twice daily for 2–3 minutes each session. Proper technique makes a significant difference to the health of your teeth and gums.
- Hold your brush at a 45° angle to your teeth and gums.
- Use gentle, small circular motions — avoid scrubbing back and forth.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to protect enamel and gum tissue.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
Flossing
Flossing once a day removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach. Use approximately 40cm of floss:
- Wind the floss around your middle fingers, leaving about 3cm to work with.
- Guide it gently between your teeth using a zig-zag motion.
- Curve the floss into a C-shape against each tooth.
- Slide it up and down, making sure to go just beneath the gum line.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by the build-up of plaque and calculus on the teeth. Bacteria in plaque produce toxins that inflame the gum tissue, and if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis — a more serious infection that affects the bone supporting your teeth.
An estimated 1 in 3 people are also affected by bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching), which can compound periodontal issues. Early treatment of gingivitis is straightforward and highly effective.
Diet & Decay
Every time you consume sugary food or drink, bacteria in your mouth produce acid that attacks your tooth enamel for approximately 20 minutes. Your saliva works to neutralise this acid, but frequent snacking gives the acid very little time to settle.
Brushing twice daily and flossing once a day dramatically reduces your risk of decay. Limiting sugary snacks between meals and rinsing with water after eating can also help.
Mouthguards
A tailor-made sports mouthguard is one of the most important pieces of protective equipment for anyone participating in contact sport or recreational activities. A well-fitted custom mouthguard helps prevent:
- Concussions and jaw fractures.
- Damage to teeth, lips, cheeks and tongue.
- Broken or knocked-out teeth.
Mouthguard protection is especially important for children. Off-the-shelf mouthguards offer far inferior protection compared to a custom-fitted one made specifically for your mouth.
Splints (Bruxism Treatment)
If you grind or clench your teeth at night (bruxism), a custom-fitted occlusal splint can protect your teeth from excessive wear and damage. Similar in appearance to a mouthguard, the splint is designed to absorb and redistribute the forces of clenching and grinding, relieving jaw muscle tension and protecting your teeth and restorations.
Splints are precision-made from impressions of your teeth to ensure a perfect, comfortable fit. Ask your dentist if a splint might be right for you.
