ORAL HYGIENE

Proper oral hygiene instruction and maintenance can help you to take good care of your teeth as well as the periodontium (supporting tissue) of the teeth. It's important to have healthy teeth and gums, a fresh breath and a socially acceptable smile. This can only be achieved if your gums and teeth are cleaned properly every day. Dr Bester or oral hygienists will assist in removing plaque and calculus (calcified plaque) deposits from your teeth and underneath the gums, also known as the gingiva. If plaque is not removed, you are at high risk of developing periodontal disease/ gum disease. More than 80% of people suffer from mild to severe gum disease.

The danger of gum disease is that in its early stages, it doesn't cause any pain, but only causes pain and discomfort when it has progressed to advanced stages. At this stage, damage to the periodontium (supporting structure of the teeth: bone and soft tissue) is irreversible. If gum disease is not treated, mobility occurs, resulting in the patient losing his/her teeth if the disease prevails. Scientific medical studies have shown a direct link between periodontal/gum disease, and certain chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, adverse pregnancy outcomes, gastrointestinal disease, respiratory disorders and osteoporosis. A regular visit to your oral hygienist or Dr Bester decreases the risk of developing the above-mentioned conditions can be reduced, and optimum oral health can be achieved. In most cases, most patients should see their oral hygienist or Dr Bester once every six months, unless advised otherwise for patients who have an existing periodontal (gum) condition.

Daily preventative care includes brushing and flossing your teeth properly, to help prevent gum disease. Eating a balanced diet, using dental products which contain fluoride may also help reduce the risk of gum disease and other dental or oral diseases.