This section deals with the most
common concerns and questions people are faced when approaching
dentists. If you require any further information about
your dental health, please do not hesitate to contact
us……
Q: Why is brushing important?
A: Daily brushing and cleaning between your teeth is
important because it removes plaque. If the plaque isn't
removed, it continues to build up, feeding on the food
debris left behind and causing tooth decay and gum disease.
Q: How can plaque cause decay?
A: When you eat food containing sugars and starches,
the bacteria in plaque produce acids, which attack tooth
enamel. The stickiness of the plaque keeps these acids
in contact with teeth. After this happens many times,
the tooth enamel breaks down forming a hole or cavity.
Q: How can plaque cause gum disease?
A: Plaque can harden into something called calculus
another name for it is 'tartar'.As calculus forms near
the gumline, the plaque underneath releases poisons causing
the gums to become irritated and inflamed. The gums begin
to pull away from the teeth and the gaps become infected.
If gum disease is not treated promptly, the bone supporting
the teeth is destroyed and healthy teeth may be lost.
Gum disease is the biggest cause of tooth loss in adults
and can lead to dentures, bridges or implants.
Q: How can I prevent gum disease?
A: It is important to remove plaque and food debris
from around your teeth, as this will stop your gums from
swelling and becoming infected. If you leave plaque on
your teeth it can develop into tartar, which can only
be removed by the dentist or hygienist. It is important
to keep up your regular appointments so that your teeth
can have a thorough cleaning if they need it.
Q: How do I know if I have gum disease?
A: Gum disease (gingivitis) will show itself as red,
swollen gums that bleed when brushed or flossed. Many
people are alarmed when they notice this bleeding and
will then brush more gently, if at all. It is important
that you continue to clean regularly and firmly in order
to fight the condition.
Q: What causes bad breath?
A: Bad breath is a very common problem and there are
many different causes. Persistent bad breath is usually
caused by the smelly gases released by the bacteria that
coat your teeth and gums.However, strong foods like garlic
and onions can add to the problem. Smoking is also one
of the main causes of bad breath, along with certain
illnesses such as nasal and stomach conditions. Bits
of food that get caught between the teeth and on the
tongue will rot and can sometimes cause an unpleasant
smell. So correct and regular brushing is very important
to keep your breath smelling fresh.
The bacteria on our teeth and gums (plaque) also cause
gum disease and dental decay. If you see your dentist
regularly this will not only help prevent bad breath
but will also let the dentist look for and treat these
problems.
Q: How can my dentist help?
A: If you do have bad breath, you will need to start
a routine for keeping your mouth clean and fresh. Regular
check-ups will allow your dentist to watch out for any
areas where plaque is caught between your teeth. Your
dentist or hygienist will be able to clean all those
areas that are difficult to reach. They will also be
able to show you the best way to clean your teeth and
gums, and show you any areas you may be missing, including
your tongue.
One of the warning signs of gum disease is that you
always have bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
Again, your dentist or hygienist will be able to see
and treat the problem during your regular check-ups.
The earlier the problems are found, the more effective
the treatment will be. |
