It is essential that patients brush their teeth at least twice per day (morning and evening) for a minimum of 2 minutes with a fluoridated toothpaste – to prevent the development of tooth decay and gum infections. Toothbrushes should also be replaced on a regular basis. Apart from toothbrushing, it is extremely important to also clean between your teeth by making use of interdental aids – such as floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser (e.g. Waterpik). There are a variety of mouth rinses available which can also assist in maintaining good oral hygiene. Your Periodontist, Dentist or Oral Hygienist will be able to advise you on which type of toothbrush and mouth rinse would be best suited to your needs. Maintaining good oral hygiene and oral health, is not only important for the health of your oral cavity, but also has an impact on your general health.

Apart from maintaining good oral hygiene, it is also important to eat a healthy balanced diet, which does not contain excessive amounts of sugar, which will promote the decay of your teeth.

Patients are also advised to visit their Periodontist or Dentist at least once per year to have a thorough examination of their oral cavity. Regular dental examinations will ensure that infections or tooth decay can be identified in the early stages and managed effectively. Patients should also take note if their gums bleed or if they develop sores (such as ulcers) in their mouths – as this could be indicative of an underlying condition or infection. Teeth that become painful or sensitive when exposed to heat, cold or chewing forces – should be examined as soon as possible. Unfortunately, many patients ignore these symptoms or discomfort in their mouths – and only present to the Dentist or Periodontist once the problem has progressed and the tooth is then often beyond the point of being saved.

For those patients that have lost a tooth or numerous teeth there are many options to restore their smile and to improve the ability to function and chew. Dental implants can also be a possible treatment option for patients that have lost teeth. Dental implants can also be a consideration in some patients that have difficulty with loose and ill-fitting dentures.

Dental implants are a special screw made of medical grade titanium. These dental implants are placed surgically into the bone of the patient’s jaw. Once satisfactory healing has occurred, a crown or bridge can be constructed which fits into the dental implant.