Teeth

Teeth development in children

Better Health — The development of the primary teeth begins while the baby is in the womb. Teething usually occurs between the ages of six and nine months. At about the age of six years, the first permanent teeth erupt. The development of the primary teeth ...More…

Teeth and drug use

Better Health — Many drugs, both prescription and illegal, can cause tooth damage. Estimates suggest that about 40 per cent of people take at least one type of medicine that could damage their teeth. Many drugs, both prescription and illegal, can cause tooth ...More…

Teeth - wisdom teeth

Better Health — Wisdom teeth are the rear molars that erupt sometime around the late teens or early 20s. These teeth can sometimes cause overcrowding, or can impact into the gum or neighbouring teeth. Wisdom teeth that cause problems are best removed. Wisdom ...More…

Teeth - root canal treatment

Better Health — Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that replaces a tooth's damaged or infected pulp with a filling. Damage to the pulp may be caused by untreated dental decay, decay beneath a filling, tooth damage due to trauma, tooth grinding (bruxism) ...More…

Teeth - orthodontic treatments

Better Health — Dental braces are an effective way to correct problems like an overbite or protuding teeth. Orthodontic treatment is suitable for people of all ages and generally involves the use of fixed braces and a retainer plate. How long you need to wear ...More…

Teeth - orthodontic

Better Health — Crooked or overcrowded teeth can cause a variety of difficulties, including tooth decay, gum disease and damage to jaw joints. Orthodontics is a type of dentistry that corrects teeth and jaw alignment problems using devices such as ...More…

Teeth - gapped teeth

Better Health — Fraenula are strings of tissue found underneath the tongue, inside the cheeks near the back molars, and under the top lip. The top lip fraenum can cause gapped teeth if it attaches too low on the gum. Fraenula are little strings of tissue found ...More…

Teeth - cosmetic dentistry explained

Better Health — An unattractive smile can affect self-confidence. Cosmetic dentistry improves the look of discoloured, chipped, gapped or crooked teeth. In some cases, referrals to specialists in orthodontics or implant dentistry may be needed. Discoloured, ...More…

Teeth care

Better Health — Dental (tooth) decay is caused by poor toothbrushing routines and frequent consumption of sugary foods throughout the day. Good oral hygiene and regular visits to a dental professional will help maintain healthy teeth and gums. Fluoridated ...More…

Dental care - tips if teeth are knocked out

Better Health — If permanent teeth are knocked out they can be saved if you can immediately place the tooth back in its socket. Call your dentist straight away. If you cannot replace the tooth, store it in milk or plastic cling wrap and call your dentist. ...More…

Teeth grinding

Better Health — Teeth grinding (bruxism) is involuntary clenching, grinding and gnashing of the teeth. It generally happens during sleep, but some people experience it when they are awake. Teeth grinding (bruxism) is involuntary clenching, grinding and gnashing ...More…

Teeth and pregnancy

Better Health — Pregnancy can lead to dental problems in some women, including gum disease and increased risk of tooth decay. Proper hygiene at home and professional help from your dentist will ensure that your teeth remain healthy throughout the ...More…