Welcome to Dentalcare West. Your local dental and oral hygiene specialist.

Welcome to your local dental and oral specialist.

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Dentalcare West

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General Family Dentistry

Orthodontics

Dental Implants

Cosmetic Dentistry

Emergency Care

Sleep Dentistry

Dentures

High-Tech Dentistry

Before you go to Thailand

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Homecare Tips

Here at Dentalcare West, we believe that prevention is better than cure! And while your regular dental visits are extremely important, it’s just as important to take good care of your teeth on a day-to-day basis.

In our Homecare Tips pages, we've put together some helpful tips and advice to ensure you and your family enjoy strong, healthy, happy teeth now and for years to come.

A child's first teeth are important, as speech and the child's appearance are strongly influenced by emerging teeth. Baby teeth provide the foundation for the adult teeth that will replace them one day.

Maintaining healthy teeth forms part of the exploration process for infants as their diet matures and they begin chewing increasingly complex foods. The ability to chew foods well is very important in the digestive process and getting off to the right start helps prevent other problems further down the track.

Dentistry for young people is all about education and prevention. Increase the likelihood of your children having strong cavity free teeth by including the following tips in your child's routine:

- Even before they have teeth, infants should have their gums cleaned. Use a soft gauze pad or infant washcloth after feedings and before bedtime.
- Avoid putting your baby to bed with his or her bottle.
- Brush your children's teeth until they are three years old, then start encouraging them to join in, teaching them as they grow older.
- Children under four should use a simple brushing technique such as a small circular brushing motion.

It is especially important to keep your child enthusiastic and motivated about caring for his or her teeth. So whether you're teaching your children how to brush properly or taking them to the dentist for a check-up, remember it's up to you to set a good example. And don't forget to praise your child afterwards for clean teeth and a healthy smile! 

Brushing your teeth together sets a good example and helps your child learn by watching and imitating you. It can also create a consistent and fun environment for tooth brushing.


Healthy kids have strong healthy teeth

Teething is an exciting time for parents as it is a physical sign that their baby is growing older and nothing melts the heart more than a smile from your loved one with little teeth showing! The appearance of teeth also means your little one can start eating more solid foods which accelerates their development.

But teething can also be a time of stress for baby, as this period is often accompanied by sore or tender gums that may appear red or swollen. Parents can feel frustrated as they try to relieve their baby's discomfort. Different things you can try are:

- A cold teething ring
- Gently rubbing the gums with a finger or the back of a cold spoon
- Ask your pharmacist for a pain reliever to suit your baby. Always seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

Once your baby has teeth, it's time to start brushing. Start by using a very soft toothbrush with water only. At this stage, it's important to establish a brushing routine that your baby enjoys. Find out more about [caring for your child's teeth here](https://www.dentalcarewest.co.nz/general-family-dentistry/young-patients).

Teething

Baby's first teeth (the front four) usually appear sometime between the age of six months and one year. And by the time your child is three years old, he or she should have a complete set of primary (or baby) teeth. This is normally 10 in the upper jaw and 10 in the lower jaw. Baby teeth will be replaced by permanent teeth from around the age of six until age 12 or 13. At this time, your child will have 28 of their 32 permanent teeth. The last teeth to appear are the wisdom teeth, which may start to erupt from the age of 16 onwards.

Tooth development and timetable

Usually, your baby's front four teeth (two on the top and two on the bottom) are the first to appear, sometime between six months and one year of age. These are often accompanied by sore or tender gums that may appear red or swollen. This stage is known as teething.

At around three years old, most children should have a complete set of 20 primary (or baby) teeth. It is very important to take good care of these first teeth, even though they will be replaced by permanent teeth. This is because your child's baby teeth hold the spaces for the permanent teeth to come in; if a baby tooth is lost, the permanent tooth could come in crooked.

How will my baby's teeth develop?

Your child will start to lose their baby teeth around age six. The process of permanent teeth replacing primary teeth occurs until age 12 or 13. By the time your child's second molar teeth erupt at around age 12, they will have a complete set of 28 permanent teeth.

Because the process of replacing primary teeth with permanent teeth occurs gradually, keeping all the teeth clean may be a challenge. That's because your child will have larger permanent teeth growing next to smaller primary teeth, and this unevenness means lots of spaces for food and plaque to collect.


When will my child's baby teeth start to fall out?

If a baby is put to bed with a bottle containing milk (even breast milk), formula or juice, the sugar in the drink and the bacteria in your baby's mouth can interact to form an acid that attacks the enamel in your baby's teeth and may cause tooth decay. Fortunately, this is easy to prevent; if your baby needs a bedtime bottle, fill it with water instead.


What is "baby bottle tooth decay"?

Take your baby with you to your hygiene visits or dental exams so that your baby gets use to the environment. Then as they grow older they can be given rides in the chair and slowly introduced to the instruments. Diagnosing problems in children at an early age makes treatment easier as minor problems can be identified and treated before they become larger dental concerns.

In New Zealand the government provide free dental services through the Ministry of Health. At Dental Care West we are also able to provide check ups and treatment for private patients, private normal fees will apply.

For more information on caring for your child's teeth, visit our [young patients FAQ page](/general-family-dentistry/young-patients)

When should I first take my baby to the dentist?

Infants

Healthy teeth are the key to a healthy childhood. And thanks to advances in dentistry and oral care products, today's children are more likely than ever to grow up with strong, healthy teeth. As a parent, you play an important role in your child's dental health. In fact, good oral care begins with you.

There are three easy steps you can take to ensuring your child's dental health. 

The first is to encourage good brushing and flossing habits. A strong start is to set a good example yourself and create a consistent and fun environment around your oral care routine. Soon, they'll learn to recognise it as part of their daily routine, just like eating breakfast or reading a bedtime story.

Secondly, and just as importantly, is ensuring your child's diet is free from sugary drinks and foods. We know that sugar encourages tooth decay and has a negative impact on our general health. Encourage your child to enjoy water or milk over sugary sodas and juices, and limit sweets and lollies to occasional treats.

And last but not least, remember to bring your child in for regular check-ups here at Dentalcare West. If your child is 13–18 years old, their visit is free. If your child is 0 to 12 years old, then the school dental service can care for their teeth for free.

For more information on caring for your child's teeth, visit our young patients FAQ page.

Children

Thanks to modern dental technology, water fluoridation and an increased awareness of dental health, many of today's teens will be fortunate enough to have no tooth decay or fillings. However, this can produce a false sense of security and a feeling of invincibility for many teenagers, who may believe their perfect dental health record will continue without any special effort. 

Because teenagers have all their permanent adult teeth – the teeth they must maintain for the rest of their life – the importance of looking after their teeth at this stage cannot be underestimated.

Remember, teens between the ages of 13 and 18 are entitled to receive free basic dental care that the Ministry of Health covers. Dentalcare West can provide this service which includes an examination, cleaning, preventative treatment, any fillings, and education and encouragement to continue to good oral health practices.

FREE regular dental checks

With the full eruption of all the permanent teeth, you will now know whether orthodontic treatment will be necessary or not. Our dentists can give you expert guidance on whether you or your child would benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Having straight teeth should not be thought of as a purely aesthetic or cosmetic concern, but also as a functional concern. The primary problem is that crooked teeth are much harder to keep clean and therefore are at an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Jaw problems can cause headaches and pain jaw muscles. Most teenagers will have had an orthodontic evaluation by now, but if they haven't, now is the time to seek advice. At Dental Care West we offer orthodontic consultations and xrays for free, so you can discover if your teenager needs any treatment.

Find out more about caring for braces [here](/treatments/orthodontics/braces-care).

A well balanced diet is important, and particularly the avoidance of sugary foods and drinks between meals. One of the biggest enemies of our teeth is sugar, especially sugary drinks. Sports drinks are particularly popular amongst teens, however their use needs to be controlled as they are very acidic and cause increased tooth decay and sensitivity.

Diet and drinks

If your teen is playing sport, the use of a mouthguard to protect their teeth is vitally important. Any sport where there is a risk of contact to the mouth, either by a ball or contact with another person, requires the use of a mouthguard. We recommend the use of a [professionally fitted mouthguard](/treatments/general-family-dentistry/mouth-guards) which provides the best protection possible. A mouthguard will also lessen the risk of concussion should you receive a heavy knock to the head.

Sports safety

Unfortunately, it is during the teenage years that many adolescents will begin to smoke or vape. Of course, the best advice is not to start in the first place. Initially smoking will lead to stained and yellow teeth and cause bad breath. Long-term use has been shown to increase the effect of gum disease and also lead to an increased risk of not only lung cancer but also oral cancers.

Smoking and vaping

Teenagers are at an increased risk of developing eating disorders, particularly anorexia and bulimia. The reason teeth are at risk is due to vomiting. When a person vomits they bring up stomach acids, which can severely damage the teeth by eroding away the tooth enamel. A visit to the dentist is important to help minimise the effect of the stomach acids on teeth. A dentist can't treat the actual disorder, but may recommend the use of fluoride rinses and special toothpastes to help lessen the damage to the teeth.

Eating disorders

Teens

With today's busy lifestyle, it can be easy for our dental health to slip down the priority list, however the importance of dental health cannot be underestimated. Dental neglect can lead to a host of health concerns including dental decay and tooth loss, gum disease, abscesses, bad breath and pain.

Of course, no one really chooses to simply neglect their teeth. Often it happens has a result of concern over the costs or discomfort of visiting the dentist. Perhaps it's been so long since you've visited the dentist that you're worried that your teeth will need a lot of work.

The good news is that here at Dentalcare West, it's never too late to get it sorted. Our team of friendly dentists will work with you to put together a treatment plan that you're comfortable with. And of course, we'll talk about options for both pain management and finance arrangements. We'll also give you all the advice and information you need to ensure your teeth stay healthy and happy for years to come.

To find out more about dental care, or to book an appointment, contact one of our friendly receptionists on (09) 818 8855 today.


Adults

When you're pregnant, you know how important it is to take special care of your body. However, you should also know that pregnancy is a time to take extra special care of your teeth and gums. That's because hormonal changes in your body during pregnancy can increase your chances of developing gum disease.

So while you are pregnant, make sure you practice good oral hygiene, which means brushing and flossing every day. By combining this routine with a healthy, balanced diet and regular dental visits, you will not only help avoid dental problems of your own, you will also contribute to the healthy development of your baby.

Here at Dentalcare West, we can provide you with the extra care and information you need to ensure your teeth stay strong and healthy during pregnancy, and for years to come.

Pregnancy causes hormonal fluctuations that increase your risk for gum disease. The changing hormone levels in your body can make your gums more sensitive to harmful plaque, the colourless, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. Furthermore, if you already have signs of gum disease, being pregnant may make it worse. This is why it's vital to pay more careful attention to your daily brushing and flossing routine to keep plaque under control.

As soon as you believe that you are pregnant, it's important to tell your dentist because it may not be safe to have x-rays during pregnancy. You should also let your dentist know if you are trying to get pregnant: knowing this can help in planning x-rays or other treatments.

Tell your dentist what medicines you are taking and if your physician has given you any specific medical advice, as it may affect the treatment given.

How does pregnancy affect my teeth and gums?

Your body is the sole source of nourishment for your unborn child. Check with your doctor as they are the best source for detailed information on what to eat while you are pregnant.

What should I know about my diet?

- Brush thoroughly at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste.

- Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under the gum line.

- Eat a well-balanced diet, rich in calcium; this will help you and your unborn baby get all the nutrients you both need and help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

- Keep your dental clinic informed about your pregnancy and any changes in medication.

Pregnancy and oral hygiene - a quick guide:

Don't forget that this is a time in your life to enjoy the natural changes that take place in your body, so radiate health and vitality by keeping your smile bright!

**To find out more about dental care during pregnancy, or to book an appointment, contact our friendly reception team on (09) 818 8855 today.**

A time to be healthy and happy!

Pregnancy

Thanks to modern dental techniques, more and more people are now keeping the majority of their teeth for life.

However, that also means we are now seeing some new dental problems that did not previously exist when patients were losing their teeth earlier in life. The good news though, is with regular dental care, you should be able to keep your teeth and gums healthy for life.

Here at Dentalcare West, our dental professionals are all highly skilled in caring for older patients. We understand that as people get older, certain dental problems become more common. Some of these include: 

As you get older you may find that you suffer from a dry mouth. This can be caused by several factors:

- Medications. Some medications cause a reduction in saliva flow as a side effect. Usually your doctor or pharmacist will alert you to this potential effect and suggest you tell your dentist when you next visit. This is also one of the reasons dentists will check your medical history when you come for your next visit.

- Illness. Certain diseases can cause a reduction in saliva flow.

- Ageing. As we get older things just don't often work as well as they once did.

- Saliva is important because it helps to fight tooth decay by washing away the acids produced when we eat sugary foods. Saliva is also the first step in the digestive process, in that it contains enzymes that start to break down the food we eat and start the digestive process. Saliva also acts as a lubricant to moisten the lips, tongue and cheeks and thus minimizes ulcers and stop food sticking to our teeth. So the effect of reduced saliva flow is usually an increase in tooth decay and gum problems.

The treatment is usually to try and increase the saliva flow. Chewing gum can help stimulate this. The use of an artificial saliva replacement may also help lubricate your mouth at mealtimes and can also be used between meals when you feel any discomfort from dry mouth.

It is also important to look at increasing your tooth protection through the use of fluoride treatments such as mouth rinses and high dose fluoride toothpaste. There is a product called Tooth Mousse that contains the minerals that are naturally in your saliva and adding this to your oral health regieme will help keep your teeth decay free.

Dry Mouth

You've probably heard the term "long in the tooth" and this relates to the common condition of the gum receding down along the tooth, thus giving the appearance that the tooth is actually getting longer. This causes several problems:

- Aesthetics: As your teeth get longer they don't look as good and the new exposed area of tooth usually looks more yellow.

- Sensitivity: As the gum moves down and uncovers the root surface of the tooth, it is not as well protected and thus becomes more sensitive to temperature and sweet things.

- Increased decay: The root surface decays a lot more quickly than the top of the tooth because the root doesn’t have any enamel on it.

- Food catching: As the gum moves down it can leave gaps between teeth, which catch more food and lead onto gum problems and the increased chance of decay.

Recession

Some adults adopt new eating habits as they get older which can result in an increased consumption of sugary foods. Often this is related to the degeneration of our taste buds, so that we need more sugar to taste it, or to the fact that we have more time to drink sugared tea and coffee throughout the day. These habits can have disastrous effects on the teeth, increasing the chance of dental decay.


Changes in eating habits

As you get older, sickness or disease may make cleaning teeth more difficult, especially something like arthritis. There is now a good range of electric toothbrushes available, which makes cleaning much easier.

Difficulty cleaning

In some adults, the appearance and function of teeth can suffer due to a continuous wearing away of the teeth. This can be the result of aggressive tooth brushing, using a hard toothbrush or using very abrasive toothpaste. It is best to see your dentist about this problem before it becomes too severe.

Wearing away teeth

Although only making up about 2-4 % of all cancers, oral cancers can be fatal. There is an increased risk in patients who smoke and drink alcohol. Your dentist will check your oral tissues at your annual check-ups to look for any lesions or ulcers. If you notice a lump, ulcer or an area of redness that does not resolve in a short time you need to consult your dentist to have it checked out.

Increased incidence of disease

Many people think that once they have had their dentures made they are set for life or until it breaks. However, just as the rest of our body changes as we age so does our mouth. So although your denture may have once fitted perfectly, after about five to ten years chances are that it no longer fits very well and is probably causing harm to any remaining teeth you may have or damaging the gums and tissues. So it is important that you have them checked and adjusted regularly to minimize any problems.

**To book an appointment, contact one of our friendly receptionists on (09) 818 8855 today.**


Denture problems

Older Adults

Worried about your breath? Bad breath (halitosis) can be embarrassing, but it’s also a very common problem and one we can help with. 

Most adults and many children suffer from bad breath at one time or another, and for some, bad breath can become such a problem that it causes extreme embarrassment and ongoing concern. The medical term for this condition is halitosis. Often, a person with bad breath is unaware that they have it until someone tells them.
The majority of cases of bad breath come from the mouth (90%). The presence of decay or gum disease along with poor oral hygiene causes the problem. This is because our mouth is full of bacteria which, if allowed to get out of control, will cause bad breath.

There are two types of halitosis: transitory and chronic. Transitory halitosis is caused by foods such as onions or garlic, but only lasts 24-72 hours. Chronic halitosis does not improve with time and breath fresheners and supermarket mouthwashes only camouflage the problem for a few hours. The odour of halitosis results when bacteria in the mouth, teeth and tongue cause the formation of volatile sulphur compounds. These compounds produce the "rotten egg" smell.

The good news is that here at Dentalcare West, we can help you determine why this may be a problem and work with you to get it sorted. Our team of dentists and hygiensits can help you once again enjoy fresh breath without embarrassment.

**Firstly a thorough dental examination** with one of our dental professionals is required to detect areas of decay and gum disease. Areas where food can be come entrapped between teeth and broken fillings lead to a build-up of bacteria and therefore bad breath.

**Maintaining good oral hygiene,** eliminating gum disease and regular professional cleanings are essential to reducing bad breath.

**Tongue cleaning.** Studies show that 50% of oral bacteria live on the surface of your tongue. Brushing the surface of your tongue with a tongue scraper removes these bacteria.

**Special mouthwashes** are now available which actually eliminate the volatile sulphur compounds — the cause of the bad breath.

If you are concerned about your own, or your partner's breath, speak to us so that we can assess the situation so that we can put you on the road to fresh breath. 

**To book an appointment, contact one of our friendly receptionists on (09) 818 8855 today.**

So what can you do?

Bad Breath

Daily brushing and flossing are the building blocks of a good oral care program. The primary reason to brush and floss daily is to disrupt and remove plaque — that colourless, sticky film of bacteria that grows on and between your teeth and under your gums.

Plaque is one of the main causes of tooth decay and gum disease. Left to accumulate, plaque can cause cavities, bleeding gums, destruction of tooth-supporting bone and even tooth loss. In fact, gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults today.

There are three target spots where plaque is commonly found:

1. Gum line
![image12.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image12_caddad8534.jpeg)

2. Between teeth
![image13.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image13_a308ae2220.jpeg)

3. Grooves on the biting surface of posterior teeth
![image14.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image14_5a66d6e832.jpeg)

The bacteria in plaque produce acid that can eat right through tooth enamel (the hard, protective covering on your teeth). This opens the way for cavities to develop. Plaque also irritates the gums, leading to gum disease, which in its early stage is called gingivitis.

How can bacteria harm teeth and gums?

Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled brush and make sure the toothbrush fits comfortably in your mouth and lets you reach all areas easily.  You should also use toothpaste that contains fluoride to help protect your teeth from decay.

Cleaning between teeth is essential. Did you know if you don't floss, you're leaving up to 40 percent of your tooth surfaces untouched and unclean?

It's also important to visit your dentist and hygienist regularly – at least twice a year for professional cleaning and oral exams. Here at Dentalcare West, our dental team will give your teeth the very best care, ensuring they stay healthy and strong for many years to come.  Our dental hygienist will give your teeth a thorough clean and check at every visit, and will also show you the most effective brushing and oral care routine. 

Plaque is easy to control if you follow these simple steps:

Eat right! A good, well-balanced diet goes a long way toward good dental health. So, be sure to choose foods from the five major food groups, watch how much you snack between meals and limit sugary foods to meal times only.

Last but not least...

Bacteria & Plaque

Wearing braces requires patience and discipline. Often, the result of treatment can be more than just a healthy smile, as your orthodontist is also preventing bigger problems from developing later.

Proper oral care at home is important because it will help keep your treatment time on course and might even help reduce it. Furthermore, it will contribute to the long-term health of your teeth and gums.

Here at Dentalcare West, our dental professionals are all highly skilled, qualified practitioners with many years of experience. At each visit, we'll make sure everything is on track, but in between visits it's important that you are giving your teeth the right care at home. Here are a few helpful tips:

This is important as braces can act as a plaque trap, increasing the amount of plaque in your mouth, which can lead to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease. Good oral hygiene will prevent dental caries appearing whilst wearing braces.

Extra time is needed to clean and brush your teeth properly.

![image4.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image4_6224f1fc35.jpeg)

1. First, take off any elastic bands and removable parts (like plates or aligners).

2. One recommended brushing method is to place your brush at a 45 degree angle to the gum. Apply gentle pressure as you brush with a short back-and-forth motion, cleaning each tooth individually for about 10 seconds.

3. Use the same brushing motion on all inner and outer tooth surfaces. Don't forget to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth - and make sure you reach the teeth in the back, too.

4. Finish by cleaning around your braces, brushing first from the top and then from the bottom. Brush gently and take care not to break or bend any of the brackets or wires.

5. It should take at least 2 minutes each time you brush, and with braces we recommend cleaning three times a day, instead of twice.

How do I clean all areas of my mouth while wearing braces?

Flossing removes the plaque between your teeth and under your gum line-areas beyond the reach of your toothbrush. In fact, if you don't floss, you're leaving up to 40% of your tooth surfaces untouched and unclean.

![image5.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image5_eca7990aa7.jpeg)

Choose a "threading floss" such as SuperFloss made by OralB, with a stiffened end that threads it through the gap between each tooth - above the wire for your upper teeth and below the wire for your lower teeth.

Curve the floss around each tooth in a "C" shape and gently move it up and down the side of each tooth, including under the gum line. 

How do I floss with fixed braces?

After you take the plate out of your mouth, brush and clean between your teeth in the normal way. Then, using your toothbrush and toothpaste, clean your appliance, rinsing thoroughly with water afterwards. It should look clean and smooth, not white and furry.

Also, make sure that you gently brush the gum areas that are covered by your appliance. This includes the roof of your mouth if you wear the appliance on your top teeth.

Cleaning a removable appliance like a plate

Careless eating may break wires or loosen brackets, which will prolong your treatment. Here are a few tips that will help ensure your braces stay in tip-top shape:

- Do not eat lollies, nuts, popcorn or chew gum with the braces
- Avoid soft drinks which damage the enamel and soften it
- Apples and hard pieces of fruit must be cut into smaller pieces
- No toffees or similar foods.

Note, if you do accidentally break or loosen a bracket, please let us know at the start of your next appointment.

Care with your diet

You'll need to make a few small changes to your daily routine while wearing braces, plates or Invisalign. These include:
- Monthly visits to the dentist to have the braces tightened and checked
- A mouthguard should be worn if playing sports
- Carry a toothbrush with you as often as possible to keep things clean.

New habits

Orthodontic toothbrushes have bristles trimmed in a 'V' shape for cleaning above and below the brackets and wire.

**Power toothbrushes can remove more plaque than ordinary manual toothbrushes. And some of the newer ones have brush heads specifically made for use with braces**
![image6.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image6_aa95949920.jpeg)

**Interdental brushes have very small heads with fine bristles, perfect for cleaning under wires and between teeth.**
![image7.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image7_1c297e6a3d.jpeg)

An orthodontist may recommend using a combination of home care products in your daily routine.

Which products are best for braces?

Yes. Your dentist will work with you to help you do the best job possible in caring for your teeth and gums.

Do I still need to see my regular dentist?

Braces Care

Proper brushing is the first step in maintaining healthy teeth and gums and only requires two minutes. Here at Dentalcare West, we believe that prevention is better than cure! That means regular dental visits with one of our dental hygienists, and good oral care at home. That means regular brushing and flossing and the use of a good brushing technique.

Here's an example of an effective way to brush:
4. For the outer tooth surfaces, place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gum line.
5. Use a circular motion.
6. Use this same motion to clean the chewing and inner tooth surfaces.
7. To clean the inner front tooth surfaces, hold the brush upright and use gentle up and down strokes with the tip of the brush.
8. Don't forget to brush along the gum line, and make sure you reach those teeth right at the back.
9. And while you're at it, give your tongue a brushing—it'll help keep your breath fresh!

![image15.png](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image15_22f1917132.png)

Brushing is important, but it's only part of the program. Did you know if you don't floss, you're leaving as much as 40% of your tooth surfaces untouched and uncleaned? A two-step process of brushing and interdental cleaning is the key to helping maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout your life.

Is brushing twice a day enough?

Choose a toothbrush with a brush head design that helps you to get to the hard-to-reach places of your mouth. This means a smaller brush. Many toothbrushes have heads that are far too big to get in all the small spaces. Your toothbrush should also have soft bristles that are gentle on your teeth and gums. Medium and hard brushes only cause damage to your teeth and gums, they are no better and cleaning.

It's also important to change your toothbrush regularly. Studies have shown that a new toothbrush removes up to 30 percent more plaque than one that's that months old. A new brush every 3 months is a good aim.

What should I look for in a toothbrush?

There are 2 main types of electric tooth brushes in New Zealand. Oral B make a brush with a small round head that oscillate around and around. Phillips make a sonic style brush that vibrates extremely quickly loosening the plaque on your teeth and gums.

What about eletric toothbrushes?

Refer to the brushing instructions supplied with your electric toothbrush. Here's an example:
2. Make sure you guide the brush head slowly from tooth to tooth, following the curve of the gum and the shape of each tooth.
3. Hold the brush head in place for a few seconds before moving on to the next tooth.
4. Don't forget to reach all areas, including the inner and chewing surfaces, and behind your back teeth.
5. Direct the brush head along the gum line. It isn't necessary to press hard or scrub. Simply let the brush do all the work.

![image16.png](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image16_f2e60a26dd.png)

Using an electric toothbrush:

If you have widely spaced teeth, braces, bridges or implants, you may benefit from an interdental toothbrush. This toothbrush has a very small tapered or cylindrical head with fine bristles.
![image7-2.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image7_2_8fae52e3b8.jpeg)

Interdental brushes

- Keep sweets and sugary foods to a minimum. Instead, choose sugar-free foods for snacking. Good choices include vegetables, fresh fruits, bread and plain popcorn.

- Don't smoke or use tobacco. Tobacco stains the teeth and the "yellowing" effect on teeth cannot be removed by brushing alone. Your dentist can recommend other options, such as bleaching for removing these stains.

- Cut down on fizzy soft drinks. Many, including diet soft drinks, contain acids that can damage tooth enamel.

- If you can't brush right after eating, a piece of sugar-free gum is a good substitute. That's because chewing gum increases your saliva, which is the mouth's built-in defence system to neutralize harmful plaque acids against the development of harmful plaque.

Is there anything else I can do?

Brushing

Did you know that flossing your teeth is important as brushing them? In fact, if you don't floss, you're missing as much as 40% of your teeth – leaving them untouched and unclean!

After you've brushed the fronts, backs and tops of your teeth, you need to get between them—to get to areas beyond the reach of your toothbrush. Interdental cleaning makes your teeth and gums feel clean because it reaches areas a toothbrush can't reach. It also keeps your breath fresh and, more importantly, it can stop gum disease in its tracks.

Here at Dentalcare West, our hygienist can show you good flossing techniques at your next hygienist appointment. Here are a few helpful tips:

![image17.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image17_059dbb601c.jpeg)

1 - Take about 18 inches of floss and loosely wrap most of it around each middle finger (wrapping more around one finger than the other) leaving an inch of floss in between.

![image18.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image18_af51956d42.jpeg)

2 - With your thumbs and index fingers holding the floss taut, gently slide it down between your teeth, while being careful not to snap it down on your gums.

![image19.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image19_8f89b4805d.jpeg)

3 - Curve the floss around each tooth in a "C" shape and gently move it up and down the sides of each tooth, including under the gumline. Unroll a new section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.

How to floss

Don't worry about your gums bleeding at first – this is quite common. It may be a sign that you have some form of gum disease. After a few days of flossing, the bleeding should stop, as your gums become healthier. If bleeding persists, consult your dentist.

My gums bleed when I floss. Should I stop when this happens?

Flossing provides unmistakable benefits that start from day one. After flossing, your teeth and gums feel cleaner because the floss reaches areas your toothbrush can't. Your breath will be fresher, and the health of your gums will improve.

How long does it take for flossing to start paying off?

While there are a number of different kinds of floss (waxed, unwaxed, and flavoured), they are all designed to reach between the teeth and below the gum line to remove plaque. So use whatever type of floss you prefer. Some of the newer waxed flosses are easier to use: they are more shred-resistant and slide smoothly between the teeth.

What kind of floss is best?

If you have trouble holding or using floss, you may want to try a dental flossette. Once the flossette is inserted between the teeth, use the same method of flossing as above. Ask your dentist or hygienist to show you if you are unsure.

![image20.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image20_b74493c589.jpeg)

If you have braces or restorative dental work (such as a bridge) that interferes with normal flossing, you may want to try Super floss. This floss has a stiffened end that allows it to be threaded in between your teeth or under bridgework.

![image5.jpeg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image5_1f1ced4a4a.jpeg)

Dental flossettes

Even if you have widely spaced teeth, plaque still forms between them and below the gum line - areas your brush can't reach.

My teeth have wide gaps between them: do I still have to floss?

Consult your dentist, but a good rule of thumb is when two teeth touch. This usually happens first with the back teeth. To begin with, you will have to floss their teeth for them, but they will eventually be able to do it for themselves. Remember, the earlier your children start flossing, the more likely it will become part of their daily routine.


When should my children start flossing?

Flossing

It's important to know that food and plaque are more likely to get trapped along the edges of a crown and under a bridge compared to a natural tooth. Therefore, careful cleaning around these restorations is essential every day. Use dental floss daily to remove plaque from between your natural teeth, and to remove food particles and plaque from around and under your bridge.

It is important that you are comfortable with your new bridge, and that it will last you a long time. Whilst there are several ways to care for it, here at Dentalcare West we can show you the best method and technique for you.

How do I clean around crown and bridge work?

1. Thread the floss between the natural tooth (acting as an anchorage to the bridge) and the false tooth of the bridge.
![image21.gif](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image21_2faad4e5d9.gif)

2. Using a sideways action, gently pass the dental floss over the tops of the bridge teeth to clean between the bridge and the gum. Take care not to use excessive force which might dislodge the bridge, and never use a "sawing" action to get the floss between your teeth.
![image22.gif](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image22_fabee33d99.gif)

3. Always clean the accessible sides of the anchoring natural teeth too.
![image23.gif](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/image23_111c7bee5a.gif)

How to Floss

Crown & bridge cleaning

Everyone knows that sugar can cause decay. But are you aware that if you don't eat well you may be low in certain nutrients. This may mean that you are more susceptible to mouth infections and this can contribute to periodontal (gum) disease, the main cause of tooth loss in adults.

Poor nutrition doesn't actually cause periodontal disease but many researchers believe that the disease progresses faster and is more severe in patients that do not consume a balanced diet.

Choose food from the four basic food groups: fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, milk and dairy products, and meat, fish and eggs. Avoid soft, sweet, sticky foods, such as cakes, candy and dried fruits that cling to your teeth and promote tooth decay. Instead, choose nuts, raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese, popcorn and sugarless gum or candy.

We strongly recommend avoiding sugary drinks such as fizzy, cola and even fruit juices. These drinks are extremely high in sugar and have virtually no nutritional benefits. Their use in young children is particularly concerning as the high levels of sugar can cause significant damage to teeth in a very short timeframe.

Here at Dentalcare West, we can offer advice and information on reducing sugar in your diet and help ensure that you, and your children, enjoy a lifetime of strong, healthy teeth.

Food for good nutrition

Diet

Tooth decay and the need for fillings used to be a certainty. But fluoridated drinking water and toothpaste has helped changed this. Fluoride is a natural mineral that safely strengthens tooth enamel (the hard outer "shell" of your tooth) and helps stop cavities from forming. It can even help early cavities reverse and ‘heal’.

Children can really benefit from fluoride, especially between the ages of six months to 16 years as this is the timeframe during which the primary and permanent teeth come through. In fact, in communities where fluoride has been added to the drinking water, children have up to 60 percent fewer cavities!

If your child isn't getting enough fluoride from the drinking water, or they continue to get cavities, we may suggest a fluoride treatment.

**To find out more about fluoride treatment or to book an appointment, contact one of our friendly receptionists on (09) 818 8855 today.**

Fluoride

You know that brushing your teeth every day can help you avoid cavities. But that's not enough to keep your teeth healthy. You may be surprised to learn that most tooth loss in adults is not caused by tooth decay – it's caused by gum disease. 

Gum disease is caused by plaque - a sticky, colourless film of bacteria that is constantly forming on your teeth. These bacteria produce toxins that can irritate the gums and damage teeth.

Gums cover and protect the bone that supports your teeth. This bone is like a foundation that supports a building – if the foundation becomes weakened, the building may fall down, even though there's nothing wrong with the building itself.

Similarly, if the gums are not cared for, the bone underneath can become infected and damaged. You can lose your teeth if the bone is not strong enough to hold your teeth in place – even if you've never had a cavity in your life!

If you are concerned that you may have gum disease, contact us here at Dentalcare West to book an appointment with the dental hygienist or one of our dental professionals, Dr James Philpott, Dr Inah Mundy or Dr Talha Gul. You may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

- Your gums are tender, swollen, or red.
- Your gums bleed when you brush or floss.
- You can't get rid of [bad breath](/treatments/emergency-care/bad-breath) or a bad taste in your mouth.
- There's pus from your gum line or between your teeth.
- Your teeth are loose or separating. Your teeth or dentures no longer fit together correctly.


How do I know if I have gum disease?

Gum disease can affect anyone at any age, however, it most often affects adults. In fact, about three out of four adults over age 35 have gum disease now or have had it in the past.

Your risk may increase if you smoke or have certain medical conditions. It is therefore vital to keep your dentist informed of your general health.

Am I at risk for gum disease?

The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. This is a swelling of the gums that develops when plaque collects above and below the gum line. With proper oral care every day and regular visits to the dentist, gingivitis can be prevented or reversed because no permanent damage has occurred.

Left untreated, gingivitis may progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. Once periodontitis develops, the damage can't be reversed: only a professional treatment program and an improved level of daily oral care at home can keep it from getting worse.

How does gum disease progress?

Contact us [here](/contact-us) at Dentalcare West right away for a cleaning and examination. In most cases, gum disease can be reversed or controlled if caught and treated early enough.

What should I do if I think I have gum disease?

Brush thoroughly at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and before bed. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a good quality power toothbrush - look for modern designs that are safe and gentle to use.

Take your time. You should spend at least two minutes brushing to remove the plaque that is constantly forming on your teeth.

Use toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride is proven to help prevent cavities.
Clean between teeth daily. Use floss or other interdental cleaners to remove plaque from areas that your toothbrush can't reach. Did you know, if you don't floss, you're leaving up to 40% of your tooth surfaces untouched and uncleaned?

How can I avoid tooth decay and gum disease?

Gum Care

Smoking is a major cause of cancer affecting the oral cavity (mouth) and the oropharynx (part of the throat just behind the mouth). On average oral cancer occurs up to four times more frequently in smokers than in non-smokers(1). In men approximately 57%, and in women, approximately 51% of cancers of the oropharynx can be directly attributed to smoking(2).

The mouth can be a very visual reflection of the effects smoking has on the body. The results of smoking can range from something obvious and unsightly such as stained teeth, to leukoplakia, a harmless mucosal lesion that can sometimes develop into cancer. The presence and severity of these conditions depends on several factors including the form in which tobacco is used (cigarettes, pipes, cigars), as well as how often tobacco is used and how long the tobacco has been in use(3). The use of tobacco and alcohol together has also been found to markedly increase the risk of oral cancer (4,5,6).


How does smoking affect oral health?

If cancer is not already present and smokers quit, the risk of developing oral cancer halves after three to five years and continues to decline(1).

In 1996, 1982 new cases of cancer in the oral cavity and oropharynx were recorded in New Zealand(2). This is in comparison with 923 new cases recorded for cancer of the cervix(2). Only approximately 50% of those people affected with oral cancer will survive after five years, although early detection significantly increases the chances of survival(4,7,8).

Advanced oral cancers can cause chronic pain, loss of function and disfigurement(9). Oral cancer is more common in men than women, however the rate that women are developing oral cancer is increasing. This may be due to the increasing number of women who smoke and the greater numbers of women smokers in older age groups(7,9). The combined effects of smoking and alcohol are linked to between 75% and 90% of all cases of oral cancer(4). A male smoker of 40 or more cigarettes per day over 20 years is four times more likely to get oral cancer. A non-smoker who drinks four-alcoholic drinks per day is nine times more likely to get oral cancer. A person who is both a heavy smoker and heavy drinker is 37 times more likely to get oral cancer compared with those people who don't smoke or drink alcohol at all(6).

One of the reasons why tobacco and alcohol together are so damaging may be the possible effects on DNA. It is thought that tobacco damages the DNA of cells, causing havoc with the cell's instructions for repair and growth. This results in abnormal cells accumulating, causing a tumour to develop. It is not clear if alcohol causes direct damage to DNA but it is known that alcohol increases penetration of many DNA damaging chemicals into cells(7). Leukoplakia is a white patch or plaque on the lining of the mouth (oral mucosa). Leukoplakia is the most common mucosal lesion in the adult mouth and can go on to become cancerous(3). Leukoplakia occurs six times more frequently in smokers than in non-smokers and its occurrence can be related to the frequency and duration of tobacco use(3). However up to 75% of lesions regress or go away within a year if tobacco use is stopped(3).

Oral cancer

Periodontal disease is a major dental disease related to the gums and bones that form the supporting structures of the teeth. It is caused by bacteria in plaque producing toxins that seep down between the gums and teeth causing them to become inflamed. Problems can occur such as loss of jawbone that holds teeth in place, acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (a painful infection that causes the gums to inflame and break down) and periodontal pockets (the formation of deep spaces around the teeth that harbour bacteria if plaque is not cleaned away)(10). Smokers are at between two-and-a-half and six times greater risk of periodontal disease compared with non-smokers(5). This may be because smoking affects the immune system by lowering the body's ability to inhibit bacteria that are associated with periodontal disease(10).

Effects on the teeth and supporting structures

- Smoker's Palate is a condition where heavy smokers develop a pale or white hard palate often combined with multiple red dots. This is caused by the narrowing of blood vessels and can disappear after cessation of smoking (4). This condition is most often seen in pipe and cigar smokers(3).

- Smoker's Melanosis is a condition where heavy smokers have an increased pigmentation especially on the cheeks and gums. It occurs in five to ten per cent of smokers(3). Although it is not associated with a risk of oral disease, it can be unsightly. However, stopping smoking can reverse this condition, although it usually takes more than a year after stopping for the colour to return to normal(4).

- Tobacco stains can penetrate into enamel, restorative materials and dentures creating ugly brown to yellow darkening of teeth(3).

- Bad breath (halitosis) and impaired taste is also commonly caused by smoking(3).

- Nicotine in cigarettes reduces blood flow to the gums. This means that smokers are more vulnerable to oral infection and take a longer time to heal after oral surgery(10).

Other tobacco-induced conditions of the mouth:

Smoking can have devastating effects on the mouth. Stopping an addiction to smoking can reduce the risk of oral diseases associated with smoking and improve the health of the mouth, gums and teeth.

Conclusion

1. US Department of Health and Human Services The Health Benefits of Smoking Cessation. A report of the Surgeon General., Rockville, Maryland: US Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centres for Disease Control, Centre for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Office on Smoking and Health, 1990.

2. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) and Australasian Association of Cancer Registries (ACCR) 1999. Cancer in Australian 1996: Incidence and mortality data for 1996 and selected data for 1997 and 1998. AIHW cat.no. CAN 7. Canberra: AIHW (Cancer Series), 1999.

3. Mecklenburg RE, Greenspan D, Kleinman DV, Manley MW, Neissen LC, Robertson PB, Winn DE. Tobacco Effects In The Mouth: A national cancer institute and national institute of dental research guide for health professionals, United States: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health,1996.

4. Watt R & Robinson M Helping Smokers To Stop: A guide for the dental team, London: Health Education Authority, 1999.

5. Blot WJ, McLaughlin JK, Winn DM et al Smoking and Drinking in Relation to Oral and Pharyngeal Cancer, Cancer Research 1988, 48: 3282-3287.

6. Blot WJ. Alcohol and Cancer, Cancer Research (Supp.) 1992, 52: 2119s-2123s.

7. American Cancer Society, Oral Cavity & Oropharyngeal Cancer Resource Centre, URL: http:// www.cancer.org Accessed October 1999.

8. Sugerman PB, Savage NW, Current Concepts in Oral Cancer, Australian Dental Journal 1999, 44: (3):147-156.

9. Horowitz AM, Goodman HS, Yellowitz JA, Nourjah PA, The Need for Health Promotion in Oral Cancer Prevention and Early Detection, Journal of Public Health Dentistry 1999, vol 56, no 6.

10. London WM, Whelan EM, Case AG, eds. Cigarettes: What the Warning Label Doesn't Tell You, the first comprehensive guide to the health consequences of smoking, New York: American Council on Science and Health, 1996.

References

 Smoking & Oral Health

Dental injuries, such as fractures or loss of teeth, are common occurrences. A large proportion of these injuries occur as a result of playing sports.

Ironically, those playing contact sports such as rugby or hockey are less likely to experience dental injuries than those playing non-contact sport such as netball. And the reason is simple, it's because contact sport players are more likely to be wearing a professionally fitted mouthguard. 

Professionally fitted mouthguards are 82% more effective in preventing dental injuries, compared to 'off-the-shelf' mouthguards, which only prevent up to 40% of injuries.

Rehabilitating a knocked out tooth can be twenty times more expensive than having a mouthguard properly fitted. We recommend that any person playing sport contact their dentist and arrange an appointment to discuss your mouthguard needs, before it's too late.

Here at Dentalcare West, we can provide you or your child with a [professionally-fitted mouthguard](/treatments/general-family-dentistry/mouth-guards) that will provide the very best protection during sports. 

**To find out more about mouthguards, or to book an appointment, contact one of our friendly receptionists on (09) 818 8855 today.**

Sports

Proper denture care is important for both the health of your dentures and mouth. Here at Dentalcare West, we will provide you with the best advice and information on caring for your dentures. 


- Handle your dentures with care. To avoid them dropping and breaking, it's a good idea to handle them over soft towel or a sink of water.

- Thoroughly scrub the whole denture two to three times a day with a toothbrush.

- Tooth paste is slightly abrasive and can scratch the denture over time, leading to staining.

- Brush your gums, tongue and palate with a soft-bristled tooth brush each morning before placing your dentures.

- Rinse your dentures in water after meals.

- A few times a week, soak the denture overnight in a glass with a denture cleaning tablet. This will make cleaning the denture with a toothbrush easier. To achieve a very shiny denture try scrubbing with the 'yellow velvet laundry soap' once or twice a week, and rinse thoroughly.

- Keeping them moist when they are not being worn stops them from drying out, becoming brittle, and losing their shape.

- **Never** place or rinse your dentures in hot water as this will cause them to warp.

- Maintain a healthy, balanced diet to ensure proper nutrition and oral health.

- Maintain regular dental visits. Your dental professional will advise how often you need to visit for a check-up.

Contact us [here](/contact-us) at Dentalcare West if you have any concerns. To book an appointment, contact our friendly reception team on (09) 818 8855 today.
