Pearly Whites

by Dr. Marcas Mac Domhnaill

Tooth wear and gum recession in the digital age of dentistry:

The majority of the population will have a degree of tooth wear and/or gum recession at some stage of their lives. This can lead to further dental problems if left undiagnosed and untreated. As always early detection will assist the patient in maintaining a healthy dentition for life.

Tooth wear can have several forms. Many people grind and clench teeth during their sleep or even as a daytime habit. This can chip the edges of fillings or of the tooth enamel. However, before chipping occurs, it may be possible to detect the early tooth wear signs. Quite often, early stress lines can be visible on the enamel of the teeth. This can be a precursor of a tooth fracture. Tooth dye can be used to identify these cracks, but intra-oral photographs and intra-oral scans are a very reliable way of recording tooth wear and avoiding problems in the future. If vulnerable teeth can be identified early on, then preventative treatment plan can be put in place.

Such plans may include a night guard to prevent tooth damage if grinding during sleep. Crowning teeth, which covers teeth with an outer metal and/ or porcelain cover, can also protect vulnerable teeth from fracture. Obviously, regular monitoring of teeth is a key issue. If intra-oral photographs and scans are updated on a regular basis, then a plan to remedy problems can be started when it is necessary.

Gum recession is a common issue amongst patients. People may only become aware of it when it happens a front tooth, or if they get sensitivity from a tooth root that has become exposed to the oral environment.

Again, scanning tools now allow dentists to digitally record gum levels around teeth and several scans over a period of time can be compared to each other to identify danger areas for the gums. Early intervention is of course the best remedy.

Tús maith, leath na hoibre.

Beir bua agus beannacht.

Celebration Time for Phoenix Women’s SHED

1st Birthday celebrations will take place to mark 1 year since the Phoenix Women’s SHED was formed.

The Phoenix Women’s SHED is Celebrating its 1st Birthday on 1st June. The Phoenix SHED based in Tralee has gone from strength to strength and interest in Kerry amongst women for a SHED in their locality is increasing. The SHED meets weekly on a Thursday and there is always something different. We also have small group sessions on different days of the week such as Art classes and Personal Development Programmes at the CDP in Rock Street as well as our Support services for women. Check out our website for details or give us a call.

SHED Events for June 2023

8 June: First Aid with Rachel Willett

By Lisa Curran

15 June: HSE & Recovery Haven with Lynn Swinburn and Siobhan

22 June: Fitness with Ray Lally

29 June: Sale of Work Fundraiser

Website: www.phoenixwomenscentre.ie / www.facebook.com/ PhoenixWomensCentre