Taking care of your pearly whites

Dental hygiene is of utmost importance and regular check-ups are advised to make sure that you avoid the numerous issues that can be created by not paying attention to dental health.

According to Dr Darshan Lalloo, a dentist at Lenmed Randfontein Private Hospital, we usually ignore dental health and pay more attention to the health of the rest of our bodies.

“We allow problems to develop way before we make it a point to visit the dentist,” said Doctor Lalloo.

Because of this, a large number of issues are created – the two most common being bleeding gums and toothache.

According to Dr Lalloo, bleeding gums are not healthy, and over time cavities form and the gums become inflamed.

“With bleeding gums, pockets filled with bacteria develop under the gumline and that eat away your teeth, and eventually the bone which ends in tooth loss.”

He added that visiting the dentist on a regular basis can ensure your gum health is properly maintained, and early treatment prevents serious problems.

Another common issue that is created is toothache, which is most often caused by cavities in the teeth.

Doctor Lalloo stated that once a cavity reaches the stage where it is causing pain, tooth loss is likely. A root canal treatment can be done or otherwise an extensive filling.

“Regular check-ups ensure that the beginning of a cavity that needs filling can be identified, treated and additional brushing routines can be created.”

He stated that overall dental check-ups will decrease the potential for all oral health problems becoming more serious, and that visiting the dentist should be a regular part of one’s schedule just like a proper oral health routine.

“The benefits of check-ups far outweigh any minor inconveniences that booking an appointment might cause.”