GOOD ORAL HYGIENE
What is good oral hygiene?Good oral hygiene results in a mouth that looks and smells healthy. This means your teeth are clean and free of debris, your gums are firmly held against the teeth and do not hurt or bleed when you brush or floss…
NutritionProper nutrition means eating a balanced diet so your body can get the nutrients needed for good health. Every day, your body renews itself, building new muscle, bone, skin and blood. The foods you eat provide...
How to brushProper brushing takes at least two minutes — that's right, 120 seconds! Most adults do not come close to brushing that long. To get a feel for the time involved, try using a stopwatch.
Choosing the right toothbrushWith so many shapes, sizes and styles of toothbrushes on the market, deciding which kind to buy can be confusing. Here's what you should look for.
How to flossProper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot easily reach — under the gumline and between your teeth.
Toothbrush care and replacementTo keep your toothbrush and yourself healthy, make sure you let it dry out between uses. Toothbrushes can be breeding grounds for germs, fungus and bacteria, which after a while can build up to significant levels.
Tooth anatomyThe crown is the top part of the tooth, and the only part you can normally see. The shape of the crown determines the tooth's function. For example, front teeth are sharp and chisel-shaped for cutting.
WHAT IS?
What are cavities?"Cavities" is another way of saying tooth decay. Tooth decay is heavily influenced by lifestyle what we eat, how well we take care of our teeth, the presence of fluoride in our water and toothpaste.
What is a filling? Filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape. When a dentist gives you a filling, he or she first removes the decayed tooth material, cleans the affected area…
What is tartar?Tartar, sometimes called calculus, is plaque that has hardened on your teeth. Tartar can also form at and underneath the gumline and can irritate gum tissues.
What is plaque?Plaque is a sticky, colourless film of bacteria and sugars that constantly forms on our teeth. It is the main cause of cavities and gum disease, and can harden into tartar if not removed daily.
What is gingivitis? Signs and symptomsGingivitis - an inflammation of the gums - is the initial stage of gum disease and the easiest to treat. The direct cause of gingivitis is plaque - the soft, sticky, colourless film of bacteria that forms constantly on the teeth and gums.
What are mouth sores?Mouth irritations and oral lesions are swellings, spots or sores on your mouth, lips or tongue. Although there are numerous types of mouth sores and disorders, among the most common are Aphthous ulcers, cold sores, leukoplakia and candidiasis (thrush).
What is tooth sensitivity? Tooth sensitivity is tooth pain due to a wearing away of the tooth's surface or gum tissue. The most common cause of sensitive teeth in adults is exposed tooth roots due to receding gums.
What is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)?TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, means that the hinge connecting the upper and lower jaw isn't working properly. This hinge is one of the most complex joints in the body, responsible for moving the lower jaw forward, backward and side-to-side.
What are wisdom teeth?Wisdom teeth are the last molars on each side of the jaws. They are also the last teeth to emerge, or erupt, usually when a person is between 16 and 20.
What is dry mouth?Dry mouth means you don't have enough saliva, or spit, to keep your mouth moist. Everyone has a dry mouth once in a while, but if you have a dry mouth all or most of the time, it can be uncomfortable and can lead to more serious health problems.
What are the stages of gum disease?Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. It is caused by the bacteria in plaque, a sticky, colourless film that constantly forms on your teeth.
COMMON CONCERNS
Bad breath (halitosis)Halitosis simply means bad breath, a problem that many people experience at one time or another. It is estimated that 40% of the population suffers from chronic halitosis at some time.
Bruxism: Signs and symptomsIf you find yourself waking up with sore jaw muscles or a headache, you may be suffering from bruxism - the grinding and clenching of teeth.
Can medications have an effect on my oral health?Yes, medications can cause side effects in the mouth - dry mouth being the most common. Be sure to tell your dentist about any medications that you're taking, even medicines that you purchase without a prescription.
Oral first aid at homeWhat do you do when there is a dental emergency and a dentist isn’t immediately available? Here are a few common incidents and tips for what you can do at home before you get to the dentist.
EMERGENCIES/INJURIES
Injured tooth: What should I do?As with any trauma to the mouth, you should consult with your dentist immediately to determine if treatment is required. The dentist will examine the affected area and may take X-rays.
Sports mouth guardsSports guards, mouth guards and mouth protectors are different names for the same thing: a device worn over your teeth that protects them from direct blows.
FOR THE PROFESSIONAL
