TO MAINTAIN GOOD HEALTHY TEETH AND HAVE THEM FOR LIFE, REGULAR VISITS TO YOUR DENTIST ARE ADVISED

THESE are important in detecting disease early. They can help by avoiding more expensive treatments by treating tooth decay and gum disease. Sometimes leaving it too late until a tooth is too painful can leave it too late for simple treatments like fillings.

So a routine check up and polishing are important. Although some people are very nervous about sitting in the dentist’s chair it is particularly important as it means the dentist can spot a treatment needed early - when it is very small and very easily rectified. Also it means you become familiar with the staff working there and become more at ease with your surroundings, making visits a lot easier.

Typically a dentist on examination will check for the presence of dental decay or wear and check that old fillings re not worn or leaking. He will examine the gums and look for the presence of tartar, plaque, bleeding gums and other signs of gum disease. The will examine the whole mouth for the presence of anything unusual and screen for oral cancer.

Oral cancer is more common than cervical cancer. The main risk factors are smoking and excessive alcohol. Early detection can make a huge difference in survival rates. If you notice an ulcer in your mouth that does not heal within 3 or 4 weeks you should have it checked with your dentist.

He will also take a full medical history. There is increasing evidence linking gum disease with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke.

Gum disease can worsen during pregnancy and is implicated in lower birth weights for infants if untreated. It is therefore important that women attend the dentist regularly during pregnancy. Many common illnesses can cause effect in the mouth which can be diagnosed by your dentist eg anaemia, immunodeficiency, stomach/ bowel problems, allergies, auto immune diseases, diabetes, etc. Dentists are finding an increase in grinding brought on by stress particularly since the onset of the recession. This can cause teeth to wear away and become painful. It can also cause pain in the jaw joint and muscles in your face and cause headaches. Very often a nightguard will prevent this grinding and relieve symptoms and prevent further problems.