We often refrain from going to the dentist until absolutely necessary. However, there is evidence that regular dental visits are necessary to maintain healthy gums and teeth.
Some dentists in Cronulla recommend that you come in for a six-monthly check-up and cleaning, while other clinics may schedule yearly appointments. If you have a persistent oral health problem, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Let’s discuss some of the dental health issues that require expert evaluation:
1. Bleeding gums
Bleeding gums are a classic sign of bacterial inflammation of the gums, medically called gingivitis. Untreated, the infection can aggravate and damage the surrounding tissues and underlying bone, ultimately leading to tooth loss.
However, gingivitis is reversible and can be treated with scaling. Removal of tartar involves the use of an ultrasound machine with blunt metal tips and irrigation of water.
2. Dirty teeth
The yellow tint of the dentin causes the natural colour of the teeth to appear yellowish-white. However, this colour darkens when certain foods and drinks are consumed, such as curry with turmeric, tea and coffee.
In addition, chain-smoking and poor oral hygiene can lead to discolouration of the teeth and promote the development of plaque and tartar. While stains, plaque and tartar can be removed by scaling, teeth whitening can be done using a dental procedure called whitening.
3. Dirty smell from the mouth
Bad breath, medically called halitosis, is a common problem in people with gingivitis, periodontitis, dry mouth (xerostomia), and mouth breathing. Although gingivitis can be treated with scaling by dentists in Cronulla and people with dry mouths are prescribed artificial saliva and lozenges to keep their mouths moist.
4. Sensitivity or pain in the teeth
Dentin contains several nerve endings that are protected by the outer surface of teeth, called enamel. However, sometimes vigorous brushing, acid ingress into the mouth (GERD), or trauma to the enamel exposes the dentin, leading to hypersensitivity.
Exposed dentin can be sensitive to hot and cold foods, drinks, and even air. This is easily treated with dental fillings as they cover the exposed dentin. You should visit the dentist as soon as possible as If left untreated, the exposed area may enlarge, causing damage to the pulp and ultimately severe pain.
5. Cavities
Plaque is a biofilm bacteria in the mouth created as soon as we eat. A thin, clingy, translucent covering known as biofilm covers the outer surface of the teeth.
Dental fillings are necessary to treat tooth decay and can only be completed by Cronulla dentists. If the damage is not repaired, the pulp may also be affected, and the bone may become infected.
Conclusion
Getting dental care at the initial stage helps prevent serious infections. For example, filling a cavity early dramatically reduces the risk of pulp infection and pus formation.
Frequent visits to dentists in Cronulla also save on future expenses for expensive treatments such as RCTs, crowns and bridges. Therefore, in addition to regular brushing and flossing, it is recommended that you regularly consult a dentist to prevent the development of dental disease.