Oral Health Insights

Why I think whitening your teeth is worth it

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 02:12:03 GMT

It's nice to do things that make you feel good about yourself.

It might be getting your hair done, buying a new outfit, or finally doing something you've been thinking about for a while. It doesn't have to be a big change. Sometimes it's just something that makes you feel a little more confident when you look in the mirror.

That's how I see teeth whitening.

As a dentist, I'm often asked about it and, honestly, I think it's one of the simplest cosmetic treatments you can do. It doesn't change the shape of your teeth or require anything to be removed.

There are plenty of cosmetic treatments available now, but whitening is a relatively small change. You don't need a special occasion, either. You can do it because you've noticed your teeth have become darker, because you've always wanted a brighter smile, or simply because you feel like it.

As a busy mum, I know how easy it is to spend your time doing things for everyone else. Sometimes it's nice to do something that's just for you.

And if a brighter smile makes you feel a little more confident or happier with your smile, I think that's a pretty good reason.

If you're wondering whether whitening is right for you, you can read more about our whitening options here.

What should I do if I chip a tooth?

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 02:09:11 GMT

If you've chipped a tooth, the first thing is not to panic. Small chips are quite common and often aren't a major problem, but it's worth getting the tooth checked.

If you've found the piece of tooth, keep it and bring it with you. It may help us work out what has happened, although we won't always be able to put it back.

Try not to bite on the tooth until we've seen you, especially if it's sore or sensitive. If there's a sharp edge catching on your tongue or cheek, you can cover it with dental wax or sugar-free chewing gum. If you don't have either, a clean, unused emery board can be used very gently to take the sharpness off.

We'd recommend making an appointment even if the tooth doesn't hurt. Sometimes a small chip is exactly that — a small chip — and we can simply smooth the edge. Other times, the tooth may have a larger fracture that isn't obvious from looking at it.

You should arrange to be seen more urgently if you're in significant pain, the tooth is very sensitive to hot or cold, a large piece has broken off, the tooth is loose or has moved, or there's bleeding around the tooth.

If the tooth has chipped because you've had a knock to your face or jaw, let us know when you book. There can sometimes be damage to other teeth as well.

What we do to repair a chipped tooth depends on how much tooth has been lost. A small chip can often be repaired with tooth-coloured composite resin, or sometimes we simply smooth it. A larger fracture may need a crown, veneer or other types of treatment.

Which toothbrush should I be using?

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 03:08:32 GMT

This is a question we get asked a lot.

There are so many toothbrushes to choose from now that it's hard to know whether you're buying something genuinely useful or just paying for extra features.

So, what do we actually recommend?

For most people, we recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush. You don't need firm bristles to get your teeth clean. In fact, scrubbing hard with a firmer toothbrush can do more harm than good and, over time, can contribute to wear around the teeth and gums.

Then there's the question of electric versus manual.

You absolutely can clean your teeth well with a manual toothbrush. An electric toothbrush does have a few advantages. It does some of the work for you, and many also have a two-minute timer and a pressure sensor to let you know when you're pushing too hard. That's particularly useful because brushing harder doesn't mean brushing better.

Does that mean you need the most expensive electric toothbrush with six different settings and an app on your phone? No.

The basics are much more important. A soft brush head, a pressure sensor and a timer are useful features. Beyond that, you may be paying for things you don't really need.

Whichever toothbrush you use, technique still matters. You need to clean all the surfaces of your teeth and, importantly, along the gumline. If we notice that you're consistently missing a particular area, we can work out why and help you change how you're brushing rather than simply telling you to brush more.

Your toothbrush also doesn't last forever. We generally recommend changing a manual toothbrush or electric brush head around every three months (the change of the seasons is often a good reminder), but have a look at the bristles too. If they're starting to splay out well before then, it can be a sign that you're brushing with too much pressure.

So, if you stand in front of the toothbrush section and don't know where to start, keep it simple.

Choose soft bristles. Don't scrub hard. And if you're going electric, you don't need all the bells and whistles.

And if you're still not sure, bring your toothbrush along with you to your next appointment. We're very happy to have a look at what you're using and show you how to get the most out of it.

Things nobody tells you before starting clear aligners

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 03:04:06 GMT

Before starting aligners, most people know the basics. You'll wear a series of clear aligners, change them regularly and gradually move your teeth.

But there are a few things you don't really appreciate until you're actually wearing them.

They're clear, but they're not invisible

Most people will need attachments. These are small tooth-coloured shapes that we bond onto certain teeth to help the aligners move the teeth.

They're discreet, but you will notice them. You'll probably spend the first few days inspecting them in every mirror you walk past and wondering if everyone else can see them.

They might, but probably nowhere near as much as you think.

The first time you try to take them out can be interesting

We will show you how to take your aligners in and out before you leave.

You'll do it successfully here.

Then you'll get home, try to take them out for dinner and somehow they'll feel completely stuck.

This is very normal, particularly if you have quite a few attachments. There is a knack to removing them and you'll work it out surprisingly quickly. Before long you'll be taking them out without even thinking about it.

You might have a slight lisp

Some people don't notice any change in their speech. Others do.

Your tongue suddenly has a piece of plastic where there wasn't one yesterday, so it can take a little time to adjust.

The good news is that it usually settles quickly. And you're almost certainly more aware of it than everyone you're talking to.

You may decide some snacks just aren't worth the effort

You can eat whatever you like during aligner treatment. You just take your aligners out first.

But that also means taking them out for a biscuit. Or one lolly. Or the handful of chips someone has just offered you.

There comes a point when you think, “Do I actually want this enough to take my aligners out?”

Quite a few of our patients tell us they snack less while they're having aligner treatment. Not because we've told them to - they just can't be bothered taking the aligners out.

You'll start carrying a toothbrush everywhere

Work. Handbag. Car. Overnight bag.

You'll become much more aware of what's sitting on your teeth when you know you're about to put a clear aligner back over the top of them.

You'll also become very good at locating the bathroom after eating out.

You'll have opinions about a fresh aligner

A new aligner feels tight. Your teeth might feel tender and taking the aligner in and out can be a little uncomfortable initially.

A few days later, that same aligner feels completely normal.

Some people love changing to a fresh set because they like that tight feeling - it feels like the aligners are doing something.

We recommend changing to your new aligners before bed. That way you get through those first few hours while you're asleep.

Your first set of aligners might not be your last

If we tell you that your treatment starts with 20 aligners, don't necessarily start counting down 20 weeks until you're completely finished.

We plan your tooth movements carefully using 3D software, but teeth are attached to humans rather than computers and they don't always move exactly as predicted.

At the end of your first set we may scan your teeth again and order additional aligners to make further movements or fine-tune the result.

This is a normal part of aligner treatment and something we plan for from the beginning.

And finishing your aligners doesn't mean you're finished forever

Then come the retainers.

Teeth continue to move throughout life. It doesn't matter whether they were straightened with braces or clear aligners - if you want them to stay where we've put them, you'll need to wear retainers.

By the time you've finished aligner treatment, wearing something on your teeth at night will probably feel completely normal anyway.

Why we ask about your medical history when you visit us

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 21:39:13 GMT

When you come to visit us, we’ll often ask about your medical history, any medications you are taking, allergies you may have, and whether anything has changed since your last appointment. You might wonder why we need to know this information, and we often hear, “Nothing that will impact my teeth.”

Your mouth and the rest of your body are closely connected. Your general health can influence your oral health, and what is happening in your mouth can also have an impact on your overall health. Knowing your medical history helps us understand the bigger picture and provide care that is safe and appropriate for you.

Many health conditions and medications can affect your dental treatment. Some medications can increase the risk of bleeding, affect healing, contribute to a dry mouth (which can create a range of dental issues), or influence the treatment options we recommend.

It works the other way too. Conditions in the mouth, particularly gum disease and ongoing infection or inflammation, can be associated with your general health. This is one of the reasons we don’t look at your teeth and gums in isolation — your oral health is part of your overall health.

We also need to know when things change. If you have started a new medication, stopped taking one, had a new diagnosis, or had a recent surgery, please let us know — even if you are unsure whether it is related to your teeth. Keeping your medical history up to date only takes a few minutes, but it helps us make sure we are providing the safest and most appropriate care possible.

Some people find it difficult to remember their medications, especially if they are taking several. A good idea is to keep an up-to-date list stored on your phone or written down in your wallet. We may not be the only healthcare providers who ask for it, and this information isn’t automatically shared with us by your GP or pharmacist.

So, even if you don’t think a change in your health or medication has anything to do with your teeth, please tell us. Sometimes the things that seem completely unrelated are actually important for us to know .

Hygiene Appointments -It’s more than just a clean

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 03:11:18 GMT

Most people enjoy that lovely clean feeling after seeing the hygienist. Your teeth feel smooth again, stains are gone and your mouth just feels fresher.

But a hygiene appointment is about much more than getting your teeth clean.

When I see you, one of the main things I’m checking is the health of your gums and the structures that support your teeth. I’m looking for bleeding, inflammation, areas where plaque and tartar are building up, and any signs of gum disease.

I’ll remove the plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) that you haven't been able to remove at home. Once plaque has hardened into tartar, your toothbrush won't get it off - no matter how enthusiastic you are!

I’m also keeping an eye on the rest of your mouth and the soft tissues, and if I see something that doesn't look quite right, we can get one of our dentists to take a look.

Gum disease can be a bit sneaky. It doesn't necessarily hurt, and sometimes the first thing someone notices is a little bit of blood when they brush or floss. It’s easy to think that's normal, but healthy gums generally shouldn't bleed.

Other signs can include puffy gums, bad breath or a strange taste. Sometimes there aren't many signs at all.

If gum disease progresses, it can start to affect the bone that holds your teeth in place. That's why we would much rather pick it up early and help you get on top of it.

There’s also another side to my job that I think is just as important as the clean itself - helping you with what happens at home.

I often describe it as being a little like having a personal trainer. You can have a great session with me, but I only see you for a small amount of time each year. What you do at home matters.

And everyone's mouth is different. Something that works brilliantly for one person might be completely wrong for another. We can work out which toothbrush, floss, interdental brushes or other tools are going to work best for you, and I can show you where you might be missing without you even realising it.

We also know more and more about the relationship between our oral health and our general health. Gum disease has associations with conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Your mouth isn't separate from the rest of your body, which is another good reason to keep your gums healthy.

So, how often do you need to see me?

It depends.

Six-monthly visits work well for a lot of people, but it’s not a magic number. If you have gum disease, have had problems with your gums in the past, or simply have areas that are difficult to keep clean, I might recommend seeing you more often.

Of course, I still want you to leave with lovely smooth, clean teeth. But the real aim is to keep your gums healthy and help protect your natural teeth for the future.

Why do my gums bleed?

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 03:06:09 GMT

Bleeding gums are common, but healthy gums generally shouldn't bleed.

Most of the time, bleeding is a sign that the gums are inflamed. This usually happens when plaque has been sitting around the gumline or between the teeth and hasn't been removed effectively.

When gums are inflamed, they can look red or puffy and will bleed much more easily when you brush or clean between your teeth.

Sometimes people tell us they have stopped flossing or cleaning an area because it bleeds when they do it. Unfortunately, this can make things worse. If plaque is causing the inflammation, we actually need to get that area cleaner.

This doesn't mean scrubbing harder. Brush gently and thoroughly with a soft toothbrush, making sure you are getting right to the gumline. Cleaning between your teeth is important too, as your toothbrush can't reach these areas properly.

If you've recently started flossing or using interdental brushes, you might notice some bleeding initially. As your gums get healthier this should improve. If it doesn't, we'd want to have a look and find out why.

There are other reasons gums can bleed. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make gums more prone to inflammation, some medications can make you bleed more easily, and your general health can also have an effect. This is why we ask about your medical history and medications when you come to see us.

If your gums bleed regularly, don't just accept it as normal. Mention it when you come in. We can check the health of your gums, show you any areas where plaque is being missed and, if needed, arrange a hygiene appointment to remove any tartar that you can't remove at home.

How many hours a day do I really need to wear my aligners?

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 03:01:23 GMT

The short answer is around 22 hours a day. That means your aligners should really only be out when you're eating, drinking anything other than water, and cleaning your teeth.

Twenty-two hours can sound like a lot, but for most people it becomes part of their normal routine pretty quickly. Where people can come unstuck is taking them out for breakfast and leaving them out for an hour, doing the same again at lunch, and then having them out for a few hours over dinner. Those little bits of time add up surprisingly quickly.

So why does it matter?

Each aligner is designed to make a small movement to your teeth. It can only do that while you're wearing it. If your aligners are regularly out for longer than planned, your teeth may not move as expected and the next aligner may not fit as well as it should.

This doesn't mean you need to panic if you have a long lunch or forget to put them back in straight away one day. Real life happens. It's what you do most of the time that matters.

One thing I don't recommend is trying to make up for poor wear by moving on to your next aligner anyway. If an aligner isn't fitting properly or you haven't managed to wear it as much as you should have, you may need to wear it for longer before changing to the next one.

A good habit is to put your aligners back in as soon as you've finished eating and cleaned your teeth, rather than leaving them sitting on the bench while you get distracted by something else.

And please put them in their case when they're out. We've heard plenty of stories about aligners wrapped in a serviette disappearing into the rubbish, or being eaten by the family dog!

There's another reason to use the case too. Once you've worn aligners for a while, you get very used to them and probably don't think twice about seeing them sitting on the table. People who don't wear aligners may feel a little differently about seeing something that's just come out of your mouth sitting next to their lunch!

If you're having trouble getting enough wear time, tell us. It's much better for us to know than for you to keep moving through your aligners when your teeth aren't quite ready.

What happens at my aligner consultation

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 02:24:09 GMT

An aligner consultation is really an initial conversation. I want to know what you would like to change about your teeth and what you are hoping to achieve.

It might be one tooth that has always bothered you, crowding that has become more noticeable, or teeth that have moved after having braces in the past.

I then have a look at your teeth and your bite to get an idea of whether clear aligners are likely to be an appropriate option for you.

Although you may only be concerned about one or two teeth, we still need to look at how all of your teeth fit together. Sometimes what looks like a simple change isn't quite as simple once we look at the bite, and there may be other things we need to take into consideration when planning treatment.

At this appointment I can usually give you a rough idea of what treatment might involve and the likely cost. I won't be able to give you all the answers just yet, because we haven't collected the information I need to properly plan your treatment.

If you decide you'd like to take things further, the next stage is to take records. This includes scans, photos and X-rays, which give me the information I need to create a treatment plan for you using 3D simulation technology. I can then look in much more detail at the movements required and what we can realistically achieve with aligners.

After your records have been taken and I've created a treatment plan for you, I can give you much more specific information about what your treatment would involve, how long I expect it to take and the costs.

How Do I Pick the Right Toothpaste?

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:32:40 GMT

Standing in the toothpaste aisle can feel surprisingly overwhelming. Whitening, extra fresh, smoker’s formula, charcoal — how do you know what is right for your teeth?

Here are a few things to look for:

Fluoride

When choosing a toothpaste, fluoride content matters. For adults, look for a toothpaste containing around 1,450ppm fluoride. Most well-known brands in New Zealand such as Colgate, Macleans and Oral B contain this concentration. Some alternate brands may have a smaller amount.

If you are at a high risk of decay, we may recommend a higher strength of fluoride in your toothpaste which can be purchased from us or your local pharmacy.

Children need less fluoride in toothpastes, around 1,000ppm are recommended.

Sensitivity toothpastes

Products such as Sensodyne and Colgate Sensitive are specially formulated for people who experience sensitivity to cold, sweet, or brushing. They work by either blocking the tiny channels (dentinal tubules) that lead to the nerve inside the tooth — often using ingredients like strontium or arginine — or by calming the nerve itself with potassium nitrate. For best results, they should be used twice daily and can take a couple of weeks of consistent use to achieve full benefit.

Flavour

Toothpaste does not have to be mint! If strong mint flavours put you off brushing, trying a milder or alternative flavour can make the experience more pleasant and encourage consistent brushing. The most important thing is finding a toothpaste you will use twice daily — enjoyment helps build good habits.

Be cautious with highly abrasive formulas

Some whitening and smoker’s toothpastes can be more abrasive. While they may help lift surface stains, regular use can contribute to enamel wear and sensitivity over time.

Consider SLS-free toothpaste if you’re prone to irritation

Some toothpastes contain sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), a foaming agent that can trigger irritation, dry mouth, or recurrent mouth ulcers. Choosing an SLS-free formula can be gentler on the soft tissues and more comfortable for those who notice stinging, peeling, or frequent ulcers when brushing.

After brushing spit, don’t rinse.

By spitting out the excess toothpaste but not rinsing with water, you allow the toothpaste to remain on your teeth for longer, giving it time to work more effectively.

If you’re ever unsure which toothpaste is best for you, especially if you experience sensitivity, staining, or gum concerns, feel free to ask us at your next appointment.

The Importance of Regular Dental Exams

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:27:09 GMT

It’s easy to think, “I’ll see the dentist if something goes wrong,” but waiting for a problem often leads to bigger issues than you might expect.

Many dental concerns, like decay, cracks in teeth, or gum disease — don’t cause pain in their early stages. By the time something hurts or a tooth breaks, the treatment is usually more complex, takes longer to fix, and yes, can be more costly than if it had been caught early.

We often see people come in with broken teeth and who understandably worry that it’s an emergency. Sometimes it is urgent, but other times it can wait a little while to be treated safely and appropriately. Regular exams give us the opportunity to spot small cracks or signs of wear before a tooth breaks, which means treatment can be planned in advance rather than squeezed in at the last minute. (If something is sore or hurting you, please let us know so that we can prioritise you an appointment for relief of pain. We may need to get you back for definitive treatment at a later stage.)

Looking after your teeth is also about more than just your smile. Your mouth is closely connected to your overall health. Research shows that gum health is linked with conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s, and inflammation in the mouth can affect the body in many ways. By keeping your teeth and gums healthy with regular check-ups, you’re also helping to support your general wellbeing.

So even if your teeth feel fine, those regular exams are your best protection. They help keep your smile strong, your health supported and allow us to plan your care in the smoothest possible way.

Why Local Anaesthetic May Be Less Effective

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:24:27 GMT

If you have ever had dental treatment where the numbness took longer to kick in, you needed additional anaesthetic or it did not last as long as you expected, you are not alone.

Why Local Anaesthetic May Be Less Effective

If you have ever had dental treatment where the numbness took longer to kick in, you needed additional anaesthetic or it did not last as long as you expected, you are not alone. Local anaesthetic usually works really well, but there are a few reasons it might be less effective for some people.

Here are some common factors that can affect how anaesthetic works:

Not eating beforehand – low blood sugar can make it harder for the anaesthetic to work properly, so it is best not to come to your appointment on an empty stomach.
Swelling or infection – when there is inflammation, the area can be swollen or have a change in pH. Both of these factors make it harder for the anaesthetic to reach the nerves and do its job.
Genetic factors – some people, including those with red hair, may need more anaesthetic or a different type of anaesthetic because of how their body responds.
Nerve location variation – small differences in nerve anatomy can sometimes affect how well anaesthetic works.
How your body processes it – everyone’s body is a little different and some people naturally break down anaesthetic faster than others.

We always aim to make you as comfortable as possible, and if you have had trouble with anaesthetic in the past, please let us know. There are different ways we can adjust to make sure you are relaxed and pain-free during your treatment.

Quick tips to help your anaesthetic work better:

Try to eat a light meal or snack before your appointment – it helps to keep your blood sugar steady.
Let us know if you are feeling particularly anxious or stressed; we can provide extra support to help you relax.
Follow any pre-appointment instructions we give you, especially if you are having a longer or more complex procedure .

Why do my teeth hurt over winter?

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:18:15 GMT

Over winter time we often see people with increased sensitivity of their teeth.

This sensitivity can often occur when breathing in cold air or drinking cold tap water. Teeth may become sensitive when the protective enamel layer starts to wear away. This may be due to causes such as decay, acid erosion, grinding, gum disease, broken fillings or brushing too hard. Underneath our enamel is dentine which is made up of lots of tubes that connect to the nerve. When dentine is exposed, cold can reach the nerve.

What should I do about cold sensitivity?

If you are experiencing cold sensitivity, it is a good idea to come get your teeth checked so we can find the cause of the sensitivity. Sometimes, the treatment may be as easy as using a sensitivity toothpaste on the teeth, without rinsing, twice a day.

Do winter illness effect my teeth?

It is common over winter to also see people with unspecific toothache and face tenderness. This can often be due to sinusitis (inflamed sinus) from respiratory illnesses such as the common cold, flu or covid. Using sinus rinses and decongestants can help with this kind of pain. If the discomfort in your teeth still persists after you are feeling better, then we should investigate to see if there could be a dental cause.