During the COVID 19 lockdowns and restrictions we will remain open to see patients in pain and as restricitons ease we will return to normal and our patients will be our priority. We are also professionally trained in infection control.

The current outbreak of COVID-19 coronavirus infection among humans in and its spreading around the globe is heavily impacting on the global health and mental health. Despite all resources employed to counteract the spreading of the virus, additional global strategies are needed to handle the related mental health – and unfortunly dental health.

With the state of emergency, restrictions and lockdowns, online school, travel restrictions, loss of jobs and therefore income we have raised some points where peoples dental health has suffered.

Gum disease occurs when the tissue that surrounds and supports your teeth becomes infected. The symptoms of gum disease include inflammation, redness, bleeding, bad breath and sponginess of the gums. Brushing your teeth and gums twice daily can help prevent gum disease.

Gum disease is caused by plaque, which is a sticky layer of germs that builds up on teeth. Plaque irritates the gums, causing them to bleed easily. If the plaque is not brushed off, it can become hard and further irritate the gums. Hardened plaque is called calculus or tartar. It can only be removed by a dental health professional.

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. It occurs when the gums become red and swollen. The gums may also bleed easily when they are brushed. Bad breath is another sign of gum disease.

If gingivitis is not treated, it may cause a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. Periodontitis may cause the area of the gum closest to the tooth to become weak. Spaces may form between the tooth and the gum, and these may trap germs, leading to even more swelling. Over time, the bone supporting the teeth can be lost, causing the teeth to become loose and possibly fall out.

To prevent gum disease, gently brush your teeth and gums twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Even if it causes bleeding, brush twice a day.

You should also visit your dentist regularly for a check-up and cleaning.

Your dentist will examine your teeth.. They will probably clean all the plaque and tartar from your teeth and advise you on how to clean your teeth well. You may also need the roots of your teeth treated to get rid of the germs.

Gingivitis can be cured without permanent damage. Periodontitis can't be cured, but it can be controlled. The bone loss may be very slow or stopped.

You should see a dentist regularly for check-ups. See your dentist as soon as possible if you have swollen or bleeding gums, or if your teeth feel loose.

Teeth grinding (bruxism) is the involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth. It generally happens during sleep, but some people experience it when they are awake.

Teeth grinding can cause a range of oral health problems, which may include:

• cracked tooth enamel

• excessive wear and tear on the teeth

• broken teeth or restorations

• strain on the joints and soft tissue of the jaw joint

• enlargement of the jaw muscles (rare).

The signs and symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• grinding sounds while the person is asleep

• headache, jaw joint or ear pain

• aching (or ‘dancing’) teeth – particularly upon waking

• aching or stiffness of the face and temples upon waking

• aching or stiffness in the jaws while chewing – particularly during breakfast

• clenching the jaw when angry, anxious or concentrating

• sensitive teeth

• cracked or chipped tooth enamel

• tooth indentations on the tongue

• raised tissue on the cheek caused by cheek biting

• wobbly teeth.

Some of the factors that may trigger grinding include:

• emotional stress, such as anger or anxiety

• mental concentration

• physical effort or stress, such as illness, nutritional deficiency or dehydration

• incorrect tooth alignment

• drug misuse (particularly amphetamines)

• eruption of teeth (babies and children).

If you think you may be grinding your teeth, see your oral health professional as soon as possible. They will examine your teeth and may take x-rays to check the severity of the problem and the damage done to teeth and bone. They might also suggest some therapy to assist in removal or reduction in the habit.

Many children grind their teeth at some stage. Some children clench their jaws quite firmly. Others grind so hard that it makes a noise.

Children will not usually be woken up by the sound of their own teeth grinding – but other people in the room might be!

In most cases, children who grind their teeth don’t cause any damage to their teeth. In only a few very extreme cases, where the grinding is very regular, is it likely that your child could cause damage to teeth.

If you’re concerned, talk to us.