Tooth Decay

Having a dry mouth dramatically increases the risks of dental decay. Saliva helps to wash away a lot of the germs that cause decay. It also helps neutralise the acidity in the mouth that causes decay. If there is reduced or limited saliva, the bacteria are producing acid that is stronger and faster at
drawing out the minerals from the enamel, resulting in rapid decay. Plaque can also calcify at a very fast rate, resulting in inflammation and infection of the gums, causing gum disease.

We recommend

• Regular preventive care appointments
• Drink as much water as possible (eight glasses a day)
• Fluoride gels to protect the enamel
• Dry Mouth Range of Products
• Soft Bristle toothbrush
• Dental Floss to remove accumulated plaque and food from potential decay areas
• Tongue Cleaner to remove all plaque that houses the bacteria which causes decay.

Decay - Is a result of the bacteria contained in plaque using the sugars that we eat to produce an acid. It destroys healthy tooth and requires attention
by a dentist, who will remove the decay and place a restoration. Prevention of decay is a priority and this can be achieved through cleaning in between the teeth with floss or interdens, correct tooth brushing, use of fluoride gels and pastes and correct diet.

Fractures in the enamel - Our teeth can be placed under enormous stress and strain. The strongest tooth is a tooth that has not been restored. Once restorations are required it starts to compromise the strength of the tooth, resulting over a period of time with stress and fracture lines in the enamel. The larger the restoration the larger the stress that is placed on the remaining enamel. These fracture lines can flex when biting on pressure, opening the stress line and exposing the sensitive part of the tooth. If left for long periods of time, it may result in pieces of enamel breaking off, the nerve of the tooth becoming diseased or in extreme cases the tooth splitting. If sensitivity is due to fracture lines in the enamel, we recommend a referral to one of our restorative dentists for treatment.

Acid - A high acidity diet can cause sensitivity. Examples of high acidity food items are fruit juices, red and white wine. Constant consumption of these can promote sensitivity from the teeth. Gastric reflux and morning sickness can also result in sensitivity from the teeth. We recommend, that consumption of high acid contented foods be kept to a minimum, should you suffer from sensitivity.

We Recommend

• Soft bristle toothbrush
• Dental Floss
• Sensitive Care toothpaste
• Fluoride to decrease sensitivity
• Tongue Cleaner