Oral hygiene is essential for preventing tooth decay. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily help to remove plaque and bacteria that over time can cause decay to develop. In addition to these daily habits, it is also important to schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is caused by the build-up of plaque on teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and produces acid that can erode tooth enamel if not regularly removed. Brushing and flossing regularly can help remove plaque and prevent tooth decay.

Schedule a dental appointment today to check the status of your teeth.

Be prepared: Know the outcome you are looking for and find out what is possible for the treatment you desire. Bring a panoramic x-ray /OPG if you have one. Write your questions down and bring them on the day of your appointment. Most of us think we will remember all we want to ask and after we have left the appointment, we suddenly remember something we forgot to ask.

Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask the dentist questions about their qualifications, experience, and if you have any special needs, that is the time to address them.

Observe: Look and listen to see how the staff interact, this can help you recognise the level of professionalism and comfort they provide.

Be honest: Provide accurate information about your dental health, including any allergies you have, medications you take and any past treatments you have had. Bring a list of medication and their uses if need be.

Note office hours & location: Make sure the clinic is open during hours that work for you and that it is conveniently located for you.

Make your dental appointments a regular occurrence. Schedule a dental check-up / dental examination today.

Dental implants are an effective way to replace missing or damaged teeth. They are small, titanium screws / fixtures that are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as the base for replacement teeth.

There are many benefits to choosing dental implants over other tooth replacement options, such as bridges or dentures.

Improved appearance: One of the main benefits of dental implants is that they look and function just like natural teeth. They are designed to blend in seamlessly with your existing teeth, so no one will be able to tell that you have a replacement tooth. This means that you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence, without worrying about your replacement tooth looking or feeling unnatural.

Better function: In addition to providing a strong foundation for replacement teeth, dental implants also help to preserve the jawbone. When a tooth is missing, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate, which can lead to a sunken-in appearance of the face and the loss of other teeth. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing further deterioration and maintaining the natural shape of the face.

Increased durability: Dental implants are extremely durable and long-lasting. With proper care, dental implants last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.

Convenience: Dental implants are also very easy to care for. They are cleaned just like natural teeth, with regular brushing and flossing. There is no need for special cleaning solutions or procedures, as is the case with dentures.

Better oral health: Dental implants do not require abutment teeth being used as in the case of a tooth-supported bridge. Because individual implants can replace single teeth, there is no need to use healthy teeth to serve as anchors on either side of the bridge for support. Dental implants can be used both to support a bridge or a denture.

Dental implants are a great option for anyone looking to replace missing or damaged teeth. They offer many benefits, such as being natural looking and functioning as replacement teeth. They are durable, preserve the jawbone, have easy maintenance, and are a good treatment choice. If you are considering a tooth replacement option, be sure to book a dental appointment to see if dental implants are the right choice for you.

To maintain white and healthy teeth, it’s important to avoid certain foods and beverages that can cause staining. Some common teeth staining foods to avoid include:

• Dark-colored fruits such as berries, plums, and pomegranates

• Dark-colored juices such as grape, cranberry, and blueberry

• Coffee and tea, which contain tannins that can cause staining

• Red wine, which can cause staining due to its high acidity & tannin content

• Colas and other dark-colored soft drinks

• Beets, soy sauce, and curry, which can leave color on your teeth

• Dark chocolate, which can also cause staining

It’s also important to brush your teeth regularly and floss to remove any food particles and stain-causing substances that may be stuck between the teeth. Drinking water can also help to rinse the mouth and remove any staining agents.

Ask your dentist in a dental appointment or dental exam to give you more tips to help you maintain your teeth.

Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, painkillers, diuretics and even radiation therapy for cancer can cause the salivary glands to reduce saliva production in the mouth. Saliva controls the number of bacteria and fungi in the mouth and help wash away any remaining particles of food after eating or drinking.

Medications can have various negative effects on the oral cavity. Some common effects include dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay and other oral health issues, as well as changes in taste and an increase in plaque and tartar build-up. Certain medications can also cause inflammation or discoloration of the gums and tongue. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider or dentist about any potential oral side effects of any medications you are taking. They may be able to recommend ways to mitigate these effects or suggest alternative medications.

Commonly used medications & the negative effects on the oral cavity:

Antihistamines – which are commonly used to treat allergies, can cause dry mouth, which can then lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and infection.

Decongestants, which are used to relieve nasal congestion, can also cause dry mouth and a change in taste.

Antidepressants – such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can cause dry mouth and changes in taste, as well as an increased risk of oral infections.

Painkillers, such as opioids, can also cause dry mouth and may lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Diuretics – which are used to remove excess fluid from the body, can cause dry mouth and an increased risk of tooth decay.

Radiation therapy for cancer – can also affect the oral cavity, causing dry mouth, changes in taste, and an increased risk of tooth decay and infection. It is important for individuals undergoing radiation therapy to maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental check-ups.

As you can see, many medications can have a significant impact on oral health. It is important to inform your dentist or dental hygienist of any medications you are taking when you have a dental examination / dental check-up, as they can help monitor any potential oral side effects and make recommendations for maintaining your oral health.