Dental Tips and Information

DRY MOUTH COMFORT TIPS

  1. Sip room-temperature water throughout the day and night and carry a water bottle with you at all times.
  2. Avoid drinks with caffeine because caffeine can dry out the mouth. Drinking coffee, tea or a diet soda occasionally is OK but don't overdo it.
  3. While eating a meal, make sure you include a beverage like water. Drink water before, during and after the meal.
  4. Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless lollies to stimulate salivary flow.
  5. If you smoke or drink alcohol, think twice! Both alcoholic beverages and smoking dry out the mouth and make you more susceptible to gum diseases and oral cancer.
  6. Try using a night-time humidifier to moisten room air.

  

TOOTH SENSITIVITY

WHAT CAUSES TOOTH SENSITIVITY?

In healthy teeth, porous tissue called dentin is protected by your gums and by your teeth's hard enamel shell. Microscopic holes in the dentin, called tubules, connect to the nerve, triggering pain when irritated by certain foods and beverages. 

Dentin can be exposed by:

  • Receding gums caused by improper brushing or gum disease
  • Fractured or chipped teeth
  • Clenching or grinding your teeth
  • Erosion

 

Depending on the diagnosis, one of our dentists may recommend one or more of the following treatments to relieve the symptoms of sensitive teeth:

  • A soft-bristle toothbrush
  • Fluoride rinse or gel for sensitive teeth
  • A desensitising toothpaste

 

PERIODONTAL DISEASE (GUM DISEASE)

Periodontal disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults

Early and moderate periodontal disease may exhibit few, if any, symptoms. However, warning signs of advanced periodontal disease may include red, swollen, or bleeding gums; persistent bad breath; permanent teeth that are loose or separating; or changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.

 

CHECKING FOR PERIODONTAL DISEASE

During each routine check-up, one of our dentists will examine you for periodontal disease. A periodontal probe is used to determine if there is any breakdown in the gum tissue attachment or if pockets have developed between your gums and teeth.

To help protect against periodontal disease, it is key to prevent the build-up of plaque. Remember to have regular professional cleanings in addition to brushing and cleaning the interdental spaces every day. Please refer to our preventive page for further information

  

GENERAL TIPS

  1. Brush your teeth 2 times daily, morning and night.
  2. Use an interdental brush to clean between your teeth, as that is where most of the bacteria are.
  3. Dentures -are yours loose or uncomfortable? Do they fall out at inconvenient times? We can help. Speak to us about our implant supported dentures and never have to worry about the embarrassment or discomfort of ill-fitting dentures again.
  4. Use a soft bristled toothbrush and don't ‘scrub' your teeth, brush in a circular motion.
  5. Be sure to come and have your comprehensive oral examination every 6 months so that we can catch any problems when they are small, remember - the longer you leave it the more expensive it will be in the long run.

 

Are your teeth yellow or discoloured? Speak to us about our teeth whitening systems and gets your confidence back!

 

Smile by Design at Southern Dental Care