It is very important that you visit your dentist St John’s Wood regularly to remove any plaque and tartar on the surface of your teeth. During regular appointments, your dentist St John’s Wood will be able to identify any dental health issues early on, meaning only minimally invasive treatment or preventive dental treatment is required to reverse these issues. If you avoid dental check-ups for too long, then plaque and tartar can build up on the surface of your teeth. You would require lengthy appointments with your hygienist to remove hardened plaque and tartar from your mouth and suffer an increased chance of developing dental health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Children are also very susceptible to tooth decay, which is why it is important that you visit your dentist with your whole family at least once every six months and more often if necessary.

Tooth decay and cavities

Tooth decay occurs when a sticky layer of plaque forms over your teeth and bacteria in the plaque secrete acids that attack the enamel, causing holes in the tooth. As the hole widens, it becomes a cavity. If the cavity is left untreated, then the bacteria can reach the centre of the tooth and cause further tooth decay. At first, tooth decay may be asymptomatic, but soon, you will experience toothaches, sensitivity, swelling and even fever.

If tooth decay is identified early on, your dentist may be able to resolve the issue by prescribing fluoride treatment, such as mouthwash, to strengthen your tooth and remove bacteria. If a cavity has developed in the tooth, then you may require a filling, and if tooth decay has reached the centre of the tooth, then you may require a root canal. Root canals involve removing the decayed tissue from inside the tooth and then restoring the tooth with a filling. Your dentist will be able to decide what is the best or most required for you.

Gum disease

Gum disease is also caused by a layer of plaque forming on the surface of your teeth. It can cause many distressing symptoms, such as bad breath that won’t go away despite brushing or using mouthwash. You may experience bleeding every time you brush or floss, your teeth may become sensitive and eventually become loose, resulting in tooth loss, and your gums may turn red or swell. If you visit your dentist on a regular basis, they will examine your gums and look for signs of inflammation as well as probe around the teeth to check for deep pockets. If you are suffering from gum disease, your dentist will create a treatment plan for you depending on the severity of the disease. Mild cases of gum disease can be treated by a scale-and-polish from a hygienist combined with good dental care at home. If you are affected by severe gum disease, you may require further dental treatment, including surgery.

Speak to your dentist sooner rather than later and book an appointment for the whole family so that you all can enjoy good dental health and beautiful smiles for life.