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Are thumb sucking and dummy habits harmful
for a child’s
teeth?
Yes they can be in some cases. They can change the way
the tongue and other oral muscles function. This can affect
the development and growth of the lower face (upper and
lower jaw position). It’s a good idea to try and
limit the time the child has these habits and eliminate
them altogether as soon as possible.
When should I take my child to the dentist for the
first check-up?
As soon as the child can sit in the chair. (2 years onwards).
Our main aim at this stage is for the child to have a positive
experience in visiting the dentist and for the parent to
be aware of what they need to do in terms of oral hygiene
and nutrition.
What is dental caries?
Dental caries or decay is damage to the tooth caused
initially by acid attack. This acid is produced by a film
of bacteria (plaque) that builds up on certain areas of
the tooth. The two main areas that are susceptible to plaque
build up and subsequent caries formation are:
- The fissures or grooves on the top part of the tooth
- The
contact area between teeth
How can I prevent dental caries?
- Good nutrition
- Reduced frequency of eating sugary
food
- Customised dental hygiene program including
flossing and brushing of teeth and tongue
- Occasional use of disinfectant
mouthwash
- Regular dental check ups
When is it necessary to take antibiotics
before seeing the dentist?
It is possible sometimes for bacteria
to find their way into bloodstream during certain dental
procedures such
as a scale and clean or an extraction. Some patients should
not be exposed to any risk of bacteria entering their bloodstream
due to the danger to their
systemic health. These patients include
any one with:
- A recent history of heart attack or cardiac surgery
- Any
implant surgery
- Recent history of stroke
Please let us know of any significant episodes in your
recent medical history and we can work with your specialist
to organise antibiotic cover for your dental
treatment.
What can be used instead of amalgam fillings?
Materials that are alternative to amalgam are:
- Composite resins, ceramics
- Noble metal restorations
We use the best quality materials utilising the most
modern and technologically advanced techniques.
Should I have my wisdom teeth removed?
It depends on whether they are causing problems or have
the potential to cause problems in the future. We can assess
your individual
situation and make recommendations as to possible treatment
options. What is important is to determine early if your
wisdom teeth are likely to cause problems and plan treatment
so that treatment is done at a time that suits you instead
of having
to face an acute situation.
I wake up in the morning with tender teeth and headaches.
What does this mean?
These symptoms are common in people who either clench
or grind their teeth during sleep. There are numerous causes
of night time clenching or grinding or bruxing as it is
otherwise known. Stress is not the only one. Night time
bruxing should be resolved or eliminated early on as long
term grinding can damage the teeth, their supporting structures
and the jaw joints. Tooth grinding coupled with headaches
may also be a symptom of structural or functional problems
in the rest of the body. These, if left untreated, can
result in a chronic pain situation. It is important that
these are diagnosed and treated early before they deteriorate
to the point where complex treatment is required.
What could be the cause of my bad breath?
There are numerous causes of bad breath. They can be
single or multiple. A thorough assessment is required to
determine all the causes and ways to resolve them. Some
common causes are:
- inadequate cleaning in between the
teeth, i.e. no flossing
- inadequate cleaning of the tongue
- mouth breathing, snoring
- infection of tonsils or adenoids
- smoking
- gum infection
- throat
or lung infection
- oesophageal or stomach problems
- some medications
- nutritional problems
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