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Suffering from a stained, discoloured or yellow smile

One of the biggest dental concerns that people face relates to the colour of their teeth. Ideally, teeth should be a bright white but unfortunately this is often not the case. Stained teeth occur over time and although this condition does not have any adverse health effects, it creates an unpleasant effect on a person’s smile.

If a person is unhappy or self-conscience about their teeth, they may hide them or not smile as often. A great smile is an asset that everybody desires, which can significantly enhance your self-esteem, confidence and facial appearance.

For this reason, Tooth Whitening has become one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures available to date. Tooth whitening is designed to reverse the effects of tooth discoloration and help you recapture a whiter, brighter smile.

Although coffee, tea and soft drink consumption, tobacco and antibiotic use are just some of the activities that can contribute to tooth discoloration; the main reason is aging. The best way to reverse the appearance of stained teeth is by undergoing Tooth Whitening treatment.

Tooth Whitening can take years off the way you look and feel and can even enhance your personal and professional life. Today there are many options available to enhance the colour of your smile. Speak with your Dentist, during your next consultation as to the Tooth Whitening treatment best suited to your needs.

Suffering From a Dry Mouth? Why Saliva is Important

Saliva is necessary for many reasons and plays an important role within the mouth. If you suffer from a dry mouth, this may be caused by a number of reasons. Certain medications, treatments, diseases or even old age; can all affect the extent of Salvia production.

Saliva is a clear liquid that is made within the mouth 24 hours a day. It is mostly comprised of water; however, there are a few other chemicals involved. Salvia is produced by the Salvia glands, located inside each cheek, on the bottom of the mouth and under the jaw. Salvia glands produce approximately 1 to 2 litres of salvia each and everyday!

Saliva wets food and helps the tongue to taste. Without Salvia the tongue would not be able to distinguish between sweet, salty, bitter or sour foods. Saliva initiates the digestion process, breaking up food before it reaches the stomach. The enzymes found in saliva also help to fight off infections within the mouth. Another important task performed by Saliva, is keeping the mouth clean. (However, it is still necessary to brush twice daily and floss once before bed).

If you are suffering from a dry mouth, please do not hesitate to contact our dental practice. Our dedicated team will be able to help you recapture your oral well-being.

Why You Should Stop Smoking

Everyone is aware of the implications smoking can have on the body; however, have you ever considered the damage it could be doing to your teeth? As well as inflicting damage to the aesthetic appearance of your smile, smoking can also result in serious long term dental conditions. The main concern to the majority smokers is the colour of their teeth.

Tobacco is a major contributor to tooth discolouration and will generally cause teeth to darken to a light brown shade. This reaction is instigated by tar and other additives utilised in tobacco, responsible for combustion. Tobacco also promotes the build up of plaque; heightening your risk of developing decay and Periodontal Disease.

Research has shown smokers are significantly more likely to develop Periodontal Disease than non-smokers. Periodontal Disease (otherwise known as Gum Disease) is a chronic bacterial infection that attacks the gums, bones and other supporting structures of the teeth. Caused by the build up of plaque; Periodontal Disease may result in tooth loss. Some of the symptoms of Periodontal Disease, include; red, sore and bleeding gums; bad breath and taste or gum withdrawal from teeth.

Smoking significantly affects your oral and general well-being. It is never too late to stop smoking! And your teeth will thank you for it.

What you need to know about Smoking and Gum Disease

Smoking has a detrimental affect on your general health; however, the impact on your gums can be equally as damaging. Smoking has been clinically proven to accelerate Gum Disease – which is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.

Smoking causes nicotine and tar to build up on the tooth surface and under the gum line. This in turn initiates several potentially destructive occurrences within the mouth. These actions include;

• The tooth surface becomes rough – which then attracts plaque and scale deposits.
• Capillaries constrict – which limits blood and oxygen supply to the gum and bone.
• The body’s natural immune defence against bacteria is impaired.
• The Fibrous cells, which directly hold the teeth to the bone, are damaged.

Gum Disease is caused by the build up of plaque and scale. Over years of smoking, the deposits of plaque and scale under the gum cause gums and bone to recede from teeth. The teeth then loosen and become tender to bite on. If Gum Disease is not treated, tooth loss may result.

Gum Disease can be diagnosed during a routine oral examination with us. If you are a smoker, it is necessary to have your teeth thoroughly cleaned above and below the gum line by a dentist every six months. Contact us today and we will help you recapture your dental health and general well-being.

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