GOOD ORAL HYGIENE
What is good oral hygiene?Good oral hygiene results in a mouth that looks and smells healthy. This means your teeth are clean and free of debris, your gums are firmly held against the teeth and do not hurt or bleed when you brush or floss…
NutritionProper nutrition means eating a balanced diet so your body can get the nutrients needed for good health. Every day, your body renews itself, building new muscle, bone, skin and blood…
Family guide to oral healthBy following the information in this guide, you and your family can have healthy teeth and gums to last a lifetime. As a parent, you can work with your children to help them understand why good oral care is important...
How to brushProper brushing takes at least two minutes - that's right, 120 seconds! Most adults do not come close to brushing that long. To get a feel for the time involved, try using a stopwatch…
Choosing the right toothbrushWith so many shapes, sizes and styles of toothbrushes on the market, deciding which kind to buy can be confusing. Here's what you should look for...
How to flossProper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot easily reach - under the gumline and between your teeth.
Toothbrush care and replacementMost dental professionals agree you should change your toothbrush every three months. Studies show that after three months of normal wear and tear, toothbrushes are much less effective at removing plaque from teeth and gums…
Tooth anatomyCrown, gumline, root, enamel, dentine and pulp: knowing the anatomy of the tooth can help you better understand your teeth and how to take proper care of them. Here's a quick look at the anatomy of the tooth…
Best food for healthy teethWhen it comes to looking after your teeth, eating the right foods is as important as brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist regularly. Every piece of food that passes your lips...
WHAT IS?
What are cavities?"Cavities" is another way of saying tooth decay. Tooth decay is heavily influenced by lifestyle—what we eat, how well we take care of our teeth, the presence of fluoride in our water and toothpaste…
What is plaque?Plaque is a sticky, colourless film of bacteria and sugars that constantly forms on our teeth. It is the main cause of cavities and gum disease, and can harden into tartar if not removed daily.
What is tartar?Tartar, sometimes called calculus, is plaque that has hardened on your teeth. Tartar can also form at and underneath the gumline and can irritate gum tissues.
What are the stages of gum disease?Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. It is caused by the bacteria in plaque, a sticky, colorless film that...
What are canker and mouth sores?Mouth irritations and oral lesions are swellings, spots or sores on your mouth, lips or tongue. Although there are numerous types of mouth sores and disorders, among the most common are...
What is tooth sensitivity?Tooth sensitivity is tooth pain due to a wearing away of the tooth's surface or gum tissue. The most common cause of sensitive teeth in adults is exposed tooth roots due to receding gums.
What is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)?TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, means that the hinge connecting the upper and lower jaw isn't working properly. This hinge is one of the most complex joints in the body, responsible for…
What are wisdom teeth?Wisdom teeth are the last molars on each side of the jaws. They are the last teeth to emerge, or erupt, usually when a person is between 16 and 20.
Amazing facts about teethIt goes without saying that our teeth are crucial not only to our appearance but also to our well-being. When asked in surveys, people often cite the teeth as among the most...
Teeth quizThink you know your molars from your incisors? Can you tell the tooth myths from the facts? Get your teeth into these morsels of knowledge with this fun quiz and find out how much you really know…
COMMON CONCERNS
Bad breath (halitosis)Halitosis simply means bad breath, a problem that many people experience at one time or another. It is estimated that 40% of the population suffers from chronic halitosis at some time...
Bruxism: Signs and symptomsIf you find yourself waking up with sore jaw muscles or a headache, you may be suffering from bruxism - the grinding and clenching of teeth...
Can medications have an effect on my oral health?Yes, medications can cause side effects in the mouth - dry mouth being the most common. Be sure to tell your dentist about any medications that you're taking,...
Oral first aid at homeWhat do you do when there is a dental emergency and a dentist isn’t immediately available? Here are a few common incidents and tips for what you can do at home before you get to the dentist.
How good teeth can build confidenceFeeling confident about your teeth — and subsequently your smile — is important for your overall level of confidence and shows the world that you are a genuine, warm and happy human being.
EMERGENCIES/INJURIES
Injured tooth: What should I do?As with any trauma to the mouth, you should consult with your dentist immediately to determine if treatment is required. The dentist will examine the affected area and may take X-rays.
Sports mouth guardsSports guards, mouth guards and mouth protectors are different names for the same thing: a device worn over your teeth that protects them from direct blows. Mouth guards are an important piece of athletic equipment for anyone...
FOR THE PROFESSIONAL
