Brushing helps prevent tooth decay Dental plaque is a soft sticky substance that builds up on your teeth. It is mostly made up of bacteria which feed on sugar from food and drink, producing acids as a waste product. The acids attack the teeth by dissolving the minerals in the tooth surface. If this happens...

Causes – infection with the fungus Candida albicans is not uncommon particularly in those who wear full upper dentures. Symptoms – the roof of the mouth beneath the denture may become red and uncomfortable, a condition called ‘denture sore mouth’; or denture stomatitis. Treatment/Advice – the upper denture should be removed, it’s surface brushed and then left overnight...

What is it? Mouth cancer is a dangerous abnormal growth that can affect any part of the mouth. What are the signs of mouth cancer? Mouth cancer can appear as: A painless ulcer that fails to clear up after about two weeks. A growth or swelling that has been present for more than about two...

Causes – bleeding from the gums on brushing or eating is an indication that they are inflamed. This is caused by inadequate removal of bacterial plaque by tooth brushing. Treatment/Advice – twice daily brushing and rinsing with a mouth wash will help improve oral hygiene and reduce bleeding. Once resolved good oral hygiene should be maintained by...

Causes – Hypersensitivity is caused by exposure of root surfaces and the pain is commonly provoked by cold food and drinks. Symptoms – The pain is sharp by only lasts a few seconds. Treatments – The daily use of toothpaste contain potassium will help to reduce the discomfort. Fluoride either as a rinse or gel can...

Your general health and your resistance to many diseases depend a lot on eating a healthy, balanced diet. Your eating and drinking habits also affect the health of your teeth. Dental plaque is a soft, sticky substance that builds up on your teeth. It is mostly made up of bacteria, which feed on sugar from...

Gum disease is a term that is used for a variety of conditions from simple gum inflammation to serious gum disease that can result in teeth being lost. Gum disease can cause problems elsewhere in your body, but can be slowed and even stopped with proper care and attention to your oral health. Gingivitis Plaque...

Adults can have up to 32 teeth, but not everybody has wisdom teeth. Today we often have smaller jaws than that of our ancestors meaning that if adult teeth are all in place and healthy there may not be enough space for wisdom teeth to come through properly. Wisdom teeth usually emerge between the ages...

The importance of looking after your teeth and braces Everyone’s saliva contains millions of bacteria. These bacteria stick to the surfaces of teeth and quickly multiply to form a layer called plaque. Plaque is a soft, colourless substance that is difficult to see until the coating is quick thick. It collects on the surfaces of...

Hormone changes in pregnancy can lead to inflamed gums. It is important to keep a high standard of oral hygiene during pregnancy and continue to visit the dentist and hygienist regularly. Routine dental work should not present any problem during pregnancy. If you have concerns regarding your teeth or gums whilst pregnant, the dentist will...