Grinners are winners

Everything you need to know about dental health from the experts at Best Dental

When we think of dental health, many questions come to mind. Why do some people enjoy ice cream, yet some don’t? Why do some people have a beautiful smile, while others don’t?

Yes there are lots of questions… and whether you believe it or not, dental care begins even before we are born. Teeth start forming when the fetus is in the womb, and from this age, the formation of the teeth can be affected by the mother’s health. Giving a child a bottle of milk while they are sleeping can also cause rampant dental decay.

It is a must to get children into regular brushing habits from the age of two, with the assistance of parents until they are seven years old. Regular check-ups are not only essential at this age to diagnose dental problems, but also to become familiar with the world of dentistry at a young age.

As children get older and start developing adult teeth, the need to protect these increases. Cavities, sports injuries and “fluoride bombs” are some risks that can develop.

These days lots of preventive measures can be taken, such as regular check-ups, x-rays, fluoride application, fissure seals (coating the teeth), and the use of mouth guards for contact sports. If the tooth comes out as a result of trauma it can be replanted successfully. The tooth should be placed under the tongue or in milk untill you reach the dentist.

When the tooth fairy starts visiting, parents start getting worried. Will the teeth grow crooked, or will overcrowding of teeth be an issue? This can be orthodontically corrected after eleven to thirteen years of age. However, in some cases, early intervention is needed. A common issue with teenagers is lack of interest in looking after their teeth. Regular check-ups and x-rays are required. Best Dental participates in the government’s Teen Dental Plan (12-17 years old), providing free check-ups, cleans and x-rays, with a no gap payment.

Wisdom teeth usually start emerging between the ages of 18 to 25. However, they don’t always have be extracted. They need to be extracted when they don’t have the space and causing recurrant gum infection and other problems.

At Best Dental, Dr Raj (a visiting dentist) can extract wisdom teeth under local, or general anesthetic. As we enter adulthood, dental care can be neglected due to our busy lives. If left undetected dental decay can require complicated and expensive treatments. These include root canals, crowns, or even implants, bridges and dentures. If decay is detected early, it is easier and cheaper to manage.

As well as sensitive teeth, a common concern that adults have with dental cleaning is, “Will my teeth will get loosen after cleaning?” This happens to those who have lots of tartar formation. What happens is that the tartar actually replaces the bone that is holding the teeth. Cleaning removes this tartar and you feel as if the teeth are loose. But if you get your teeth cleaned regularly, tartar will not have a chance to eat into the bone. Tartar formation also leads to gum diseases such as periodontitis.

We often neglect the appearance of our teeth, but as we all know a good smile can take ones breath away. There are various methods of orthodontic corrections, veneers, crowns, or bleaching to get this smile.

And remember, you aren’t the only one who is scared of dentists,

Dr Bhanushali of Best Dental has being working in Seven Hills for the last thirteen years. Best Dental has a professional team of dentists and hygienists. It is a modern surgery, equipped with new chairs, digital x-rays, and computerised practice management. They use on-line health fund claims (HICAPS). The practice takes pride in maintaining its high level of patient safety by enforcing quality hygiene and infection control practices. It is conveniently located next Seven Hills station with ample parking. The best part? They provide all of the services mentioned in this article, and proudly support community activities and programs.

Please call (02) 9831 2061 to discuss your dental needs or email reception@bestdental.com.au but these days dentistry has changed. There are lots of modern techniques that Best Dental makes for the dental experience to be more comfortable. Your teeth are precious, so look after them. Enjoy good food, get half yearly dental check-ups, and enjoy your great smile.

Dr Jayashree Bhanushali