Wisdom teeth extraction is recommended when the teeth cause problems as they try to emerge from the gums.

Some common reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be extracted include:

1. Impaction: Wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they are blocked from breaking through the gums. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection. Impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to damage of the surrounding teeth and jawbone.
2. Crowding: Wisdom teeth can push against other teeth and disrupt the alignment of the bite, causing crowding and misalignment of the other teeth.
3. Risk of Decay: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, which makes them difficult to clean properly. As a result, they are at increased risk of decay and gum disease.
4. Infection: Wisdom teeth are located far back in the mouth, which makes them harder to clean and more susceptible to infection.

It’s important to note that if wisdom teeth do not cause any problems and are able to fully emerge and function properly, they can be left in place. However, it’s best to have a consultation with your dentist to determine if wisdom teeth extraction is necessary.

In addition, it’s recommended to have regular dental check-ups / dental examinations to monitor the position and overall health of your wisdom teeth, even if they are not causing problems at the moment.

Diet and nutrition play a significant role in oral health and preventing tooth decay.

Consuming a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates can lead to an increase in plaque, which can then lead to tooth decay. On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, as well as low in sugar and processed foods, can help maintain good oral health. The normal bacteria in your mouth feast when you eat and drink foods that contain sugar and carbohydrates, especially if you don´t brush and floss your teeth after eating.

Additionally, to prevent tooth decay:
1. Consume foods high in calcium and vitamin D, such as milk and cheese as this can help strengthen tooth enamel.
2. Limit snacking and eat a balanced diet.
3. Drink a sufficient amount of water as it helps to wash away food particles and neutralize plaque acids.
4. Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

It is important to maintain a good diet and proper oral hygiene habits, but it is also important to make an appointment to see your dentist regularly for a dental examination / dental check-up.

Teeth sensitivity is caused by the exposure of the dentin, the layer of the tooth beneath the enamel. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Tooth decay
• Tooth erosion
• Worn fillings
• Brushing teeth too hard or with a toothbrush that has hard bristles
• Consuming acidic foods and drinks (such as citrus fruits and carbonated beverages)
• Grinding or clenching teeth
• Gum disease

To avoid tooth sensitivity, you can:

• Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and brush gently
• Limit consumption of acidic foods and drinks
• Use a mouthguard if you grind or clench your teeth
• Talk to your dentist about using a desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride gel
• Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups
• If gum disease is identified, follow the treatment plan provided by your dentist

If you experience sensitivity that persists, it is important to make a dental appointment for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

You want your trick or treat fun on Halloween night, not after the party is over. The last thing you want after a night of fun, dressing up and surgery treats are your teeth playing tricks on you.

Splurging as a one off for Halloween is fine as long as you are a regular tooth brusher and flosser. If, however, you are not, then be prepared for the tricks your teeth can play on you.

Those surgery treats will be all the bacteria in your mouth want for a little thrill. The natural bacteria in your mouth go into overdrive when there is leftover food and drink. Over time and unless you maintain good oral hygiene, that bacteria create mayhem for your teeth. That is when tooth decay happens as the bacteria creates a sticky layer of plaque. It is this plaque that damages the surface of your teeth.

If you are going to indulge then you might want to eat chocolate as chocolate is easier to wash off your teeth. Sticky candy, hard candy, or sour candy, those other popular treats for Halloween stick around in the mouth longer and gives that cavity-causing bacteria more time to work.

Remember, good oral hygiene is always in fashion and not just for Halloween!

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is commonly added to drinking water and toothpastes to help prevent tooth decay. It is also found in many foods and drinks.

Facts about fluoride:
• Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resistant to decay.

• Fluoride is effective in preventing tooth decay in both children and adults.

• Fluoride is safe to consume when used in the appropriate amounts.

Myths about fluoride:
• Fluoride is not safe to consume.

• Fluoride is not effective in preventing tooth decay.

• Fluoride causes cancer and other serious health problems.

It is important to note that fluoride is safe to consume when used in an appropriate way and quantity. Excessive fluoride intake can cause dental fluorosis, which is a cosmetic condition that causes discoloration and/or mottling of the teeth, but it is not linked to cancer or other serious health problems.

Ask your dentist or dental hygienist at your next dental examination / dental check-up about the use of fluoride.