Healthy news and information from Exquisite Smiles / 2019 May Issue
Maybe you know someone who could benefit from seeing us. But they’re afraid. Not about the procedures, but the shame, judgment or embarrassment they assume will come from one of our dental professionals.
We don’t do that.
If you or someone you love hasn’t maintained their teeth and gums as well as they wish they had, no worries. We’re here to help. No shame. No scolding. No lectures. Just caring, compassionate advice and encouragement.
Embarrassment is probably the most common concern voiced by people who haven’t been to a dentist in a long time. True, there was a time when “the lecture” was part of every visit to the dentist. But those days are gone. Dentistry has evolved.
Our mission is to create partnerships with our patients. We find that education works better than embarrassment—inspiration better than humiliation. We’re here to help in any way we can.
Does your child participate in some type of organised sport? There are many risks when playing soccer, cricket, rugby, kickboxing, basketball, netball or other types of contact sports.
The biggest risk with contact sports? The contact part.
When playing contact sports, your child can receive a blow to the head. Or an elbow to the chin. Or a knee to the cheek. A mouth guard is an essential piece of safety equipment to help protect their teeth, mouth and jaw.
Without mouth protection we see a variety of injuries in our practice:
• Cut lips
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Tongue damage
• Jaw injury
• Knocked out teeth
• Brain concussion
• TMJ issues
Unprotected, these injuries can require extensive restorative dentistry that can take years to complete. With a mouth guard, these are often preventable. That makes a mouth guard an inexpensive form of insurance.
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues that we see. It begins with the plaque that is forming on your teeth this very moment.
This sticky, colourless film contains saliva, food particles and bacteria. The toxins produced by the bacteria cause irritation to the gum tissue around each tooth. If plaque isn’t consistently removed as it forms, gingivitis can result. Gingivitis can produce chronic bad breath and irritated gums that often bleed during brushing.
Some people think the “pink in the sink” is merely from brushing too vigorously. Unlikely. Usually it’s a sign of gingivitis.
If neglected, gingivitis can worsen into full-fledged periodontitis. This is a more advanced and destructive form of gum disease. It attacks the bone and supporting tissues below the gum line. Teeth often loosen or shift position.
Thankfully, with consistent use, your toothbrush and flossing can usually stop gum disease in its tracks.
