Healthy teeth and gums are important to one's health. We spoke to two dentists, Dr. Douglas Achaiba, Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S) of Sunny Smiles Dental Clinic and Dr. Dane H. Suepaul, also a Doctor of Dental Surgery, who answered questions on dental care.
How often does a person need to check a dentist?
Even if there are no negative complaints regarding dental care. It is wise to visit your dentist every six months.
What are some signs of a bad or decaying tooth?
If someone has a cavity, you may be able to tell by a noticeable discoloration of the tooth. If no discoloration is present then this person may feel some insensitivity while consuming hot or cold consumables. Because it all depends on the depth of the cavity and the size of hole the person has, discoloration may not take place.
Is flossing a good practice/ Picking teeth with toothpicks?
Flossing is recommended for the purpose of cleaning teeth, but in terms of tooth picking, this can be very detrimental. Tooth picking can damage the gum tissue and this may lead to ulcers or recessions, which is the pulling away of teeth from your gums.
What are the ingredients in toothpaste?
I don't know if there is one particular correct or best tooth paste, but if you have to choose one then the best way of picking is by checking the ingredients to make sure that fluoride, a major ingredient is present.
What are some at home dental care?
Brush teeth for the stipulated amount of time per day. Limit your soft drink intake, as well as keep away from very sweet or sour edibles. And last but not least floss daily.
Dr. Suepaul, what are some oral diseases?
When considering oral diseases, a distinction has to be made in terms of origin. For there are several oral diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth decay. There are several systemic conditions (those that affect the rest of your body) that present symptoms that are seen primarily in the mouth, such as herpes and HIV.
What are some unhealthy foods that affect the teeth / what should one stay away from?
The old adage of too much of anything is not good for you applies! All foods that contain carbohydrates (sugar) which are potentially bad for your teeth, if a proper oral hygiene routine is not followed. Generally dentists advise you to stay away from sweet sticky foods (toffee) that contain high levels of sugar and are hard to remove from the surface of teeth. Soft drinks or "sweet drinks" as we like to call them are not good for your teeth, they contain Carbonic acid from the carbonation process (the fizz) and some have phosphoric acid as a stabiliser. These acids dissolve the surface of your teeth over time. Everything in moderation is my advice and be sure to follow a cleaning regiment.
Are piercings around the mouth area, tongue and lips detrimental?
Most piercing in these areas are a source of taboo, from a professional stand point, my greatest concern is infection. Starting with the actual piercing process, ensure instruments are sterile, not just disinfected, there is a difference! To the possibility of infection at the site after the stud or ring is placed, complete healing has to take place and even then the mouth can never be sterilised and is always a potential source of infection.
Bleeding gums?
Strictly speaking, bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis but can occur due to other conditions or medication.
How often should one brush and floss?
Brush at least twice daily, before breakfast and bed. Flossing should be done once daily.