Patient Guide

Of course it does. After the poison is applied, you should see a doctor within the specified time, which is usually 14 days. You cannot walk around with the poison for longer. If you do not see a doctor, the mortifying agent may spread beyond the tooth and destroy other structures. Another possible scenario is the loss of tightness of the dressing and re-infection of the tooth. This may be asymptomatic, and may even result in a large abscess. The constantly developing technology in dentistry allows for a significant reduction in the time of root canal treatment, and this treatment is often performed in one visit, so it does not require a large expenditure of time on the part of the patient.

A tooth that has been completely root canal treated and is dead should not be felt. If this is the case, you should check whether the filling in the tooth is not too high (this leads to overloading the tooth and, as a result, to its feeling and pain). A small correction of the filling is enough to make the discomfort go away. It is also very important that the channels are filled using modern materials and equipment. A dead tooth can also hurt immediately after treatment – the pain is then a result of irritation of the periapical tissues. In such a case, the discomfort goes away on its own after a few days. Very often, the cause of the feeling of a dead tooth is an incompletely filled one of the tooth’s channels, an additional channel or an unusually split channel. An X-ray of the tooth can help determine the cause of the discomfort. Unfortunately, not everything is always visible on it (it shows the tooth only in two dimensions, and the channels can overlap). If the image obtained is unclear, the doctor reopens the tooth and checks its channels. He can also use a special microscope that allows for the detection of an additional channel, invisible on the X-ray.

Endodontic (root canal) treatment under a microscope is much more precise than traditional treatment. When the canal is straight and treated for the first time, standard treatment is sufficient and gives very good results. On the other hand, a microscope can be very helpful when we are dealing with a blocked, bent or treated canal for the second time (because, for example, the first treatment was ineffective). Thanks to the microscope, the doctor can see much more. This device magnifies up to 24 times, and the treatment area is also better illuminated. All this reduces the risk of failure. In addition, there are often additional canals in the tooth that can only be seen under a microscope. In turn, thorough processing (cleaning) of the canals allows them to be filled well. A properly root canal-treated tooth does not cause pain, is not a source of infection, and usually does not discolour. Unfortunately, treatment under a microscope is more expensive than standard root canal treatment.

Until recently, root canal treatment caused many problems. Today, thanks to modern methods and equipment, it is no longer so unpleasant, especially since it is performed under anaesthesia. Before the procedure, an X-ray is taken to assess the condition of the roots and their surroundings. Then, using a so-called endometer, the length of the canal is measured, thanks to which it can be precisely cleaned. This is done manually (using needles) or with a special mechanical device. Curved canals can be cleaned using flexible tools with a so-called memory. Then they are disinfected and filled. After the procedure, an X-ray is taken to check whether the canals have been filled correctly. Such control is very important, because a canal filled too shallowly creates the risk that the inflammation will return.

Curettage can prevent the progression of periodontal disease. The procedure involves removing dental deposits from the root surface, smoothing it (like during scaling) and removing diseased gum from the pocket. There are two types of curettage: open and closed. The first involves cutting the gum and moving it away from the bone and root. Thanks to this, the dentist can see the root precisely, which makes it easier to remove deposits and diseased tissue. Closed curettage is performed without cutting, thanks to which the gum heals faster after the procedure. However, there is no certainty that the root has been properly cleaned. Both procedures are performed under local anesthesia.

Wisdom teeth are only removed when there are indications for this, so there is no place for them, they cause inflammation due to difficult eruption related to incorrect positioning. Wisdom teeth are also sometimes removed for temporomandibular joint problems or before orthodontic treatment. The procedure of removing a wisdom tooth may resemble a regular tooth extraction if the wisdom tooth has already erupted. If the wisdom tooth is retained in the bone, a chiseling procedure is performed. After such a procedure, you should lead a gentle lifestyle for a few days. Swelling may also appear, so you should take this into account in your professional plans.

Most of us have all our permanent teeth by the age of 12 or 13. However, it sometimes happens that adults have one or more primary teeth, the so-called persistent teeth. These are most often the lower five. When the dentist determines that the patient has a primary tooth, they recommend taking an X-ray to find the cause of this condition. It is usually the lack of a permanent tooth bud. In such a case, the primary tooth should not be removed, it can remain in place even until the age of 30-40. Then it usually falls out. Then it is advisable to make an implant or denture. This is often possible only after orthodontic preparation. However, if the tooth bud is in the maxilla or mandible, then the primary tooth is most often removed and surgical and orthodontic treatment is implemented to introduce a permanent tooth into the arch. An impacted tooth that remains in the oral cavity without treatment or observation can damage the roots of adjacent teeth or cause the formation of cysts.

Yes, such a procedure is possible. Before starting it, the doctor should take an X-ray of the tooth to assess the root system and the condition of the bone surrounding the tooth. The procedure is performed under anesthesia (infiltration or conduction, the doctor decides), so the patient does not feel pain. If the wisdom tooth has not yet erupted, so-called chiseling is necessary. First, the dentist cuts the mucous membrane together with the periosteum. Then, the unerupted wisdom tooth is removed. After the procedure, the wound should be sutured. Half an hour after the procedure, the patient can spit out the tampon, which presses on the place after the extracted tooth. For 1-2 hours, you cannot eat anything. On this day, you should not drink anything hot, smoke cigarettes. You should also not brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with anything, because this may wash out the forming clot and cause complications. Sometimes, cold compresses are recommended after the procedure. After 7 days, the stitches are removed at a check-up visit.

Removal of the detected lesion is highly recommended. Leaving the cyst may even risk its malignancy, i.e. cancer. The procedure itself is painless, because it is performed under anesthesia. The type of anesthesia and the course of the procedure depend on the location of the lesion. After the cyst is removed (as after any surgical procedure), swelling around the wound may occur, and pain may also occur, which should be relieved by taking painkillers recommended by the doctor.

Excess gum at the extraction site (tooth extraction) is often the result of wound healing. This happens especially when the procedure was difficult and the wound required stitching. Redness and pain most often occur as a result of gum irritation (e.g. during eating or checking with the tongue). Excess tissue should disappear on its own over time (provided it is not irritated). Otherwise, a dental or surgical consultation may be indicated.

Normally, the place where the tooth was removed is filled with a blood clot. It cannot be rinsed out, so for half an hour after the procedure, you should hold a tampon in your mouth, which will gently press on the wound. For two hours, you cannot eat or drink anything, for the rest of the day you cannot eat anything hot, rinse your mouth or brush your teeth. Otherwise, complications and severe pain, i.e. dry socket, can occur. This is related to local inflammation of the bone. In such a case, you should go to a dentist, who will rinse the socket and also administer local anti-inflammatory and painkillers. The procedures must be repeated until the symptoms completely disappear.

When a tooth breaks, you should immediately go to the dentist to check the condition of the root. The dentist takes an X-ray to assess whether the root can be saved. If not, it must be removed. The root that is left can cause inflammation and a source of infection. If it turns out that the root can be treated, a root canal procedure must be performed. After the root is properly prepared and protected, it can be left in the mouth. This protects the bone of the socket from atrophy. Thanks to this, it is possible to maintain a denture, for example. However, a better way is to make a prosthetic restoration – a post and a crown.

Of all teeth, wisdom teeth (i.e. the last molars) are indeed the weakest. One of the reasons for this is that it is difficult for us to reach them during daily oral hygiene. Neglecting hygiene promotes the development of caries. Sometimes, it is impossible for a dentist to completely cure them due to difficult access, structural disorders (e.g. additional, curved roots). In such a case, these teeth should be removed. Indications for extraction also include: recurrent inflammation of the gums, accompanying the eruption of wisdom teeth, for which there is no space in the oral cavity, as well as the lack of an opposing tooth. Prophylactic removal of wisdom teeth without indications for extraction is not recommended. Like any surgical procedure, it is a last resort. Sometimes we also need wisdom teeth. They can be used, for example, for prosthetic reconstruction when neighboring teeth are missing. The procedure of removing wisdom teeth is performed under anesthesia. Pain may appear only later, during the healing of the wound (this will be the case, for example, when the position of the tooth was unfavorable and its removal was difficult).

Implants are not implanted in people under 16 years of age, i.e. before the bone growth process is complete. Poor oral hygiene also speaks against the procedure. Implants cannot be used by people suffering from diseases that debilitate the body (e.g. cancer, AIDS, alcoholism). Contraindications may also include (but are not always) diabetes, immune disorders, circulatory system diseases and rheumatic diseases. Implants are not recommended for people suffering from dry mouth (xerostomia), changes in the mucous membrane, as well as atrophy of the maxilla and mandible bones. Smoking is also a relative contraindication.

No, bone reconstruction is not always necessary before implant placement. This is only necessary in specific cases. In order to place implants, the patient must have healthy gums and an adequate amount of bone tissue to provide a base for the implant. So if the patient suffers from periodontitis or has bone defects, then it is indeed necessary to first regenerate the destroyed parts of the periodontium. For this purpose, various substances are used that help rebuild the bone. Emdogain is usually used – an extract from the enamel protein of animal tooth buds. In addition, the natural substance Bio-Oss is used or the patient’s own bone is transplanted into the patient.

The only effective way is prevention. First of all, you need to brush your teeth at least twice a day. You should use a toothpaste with fluoride (it strengthens your teeth and increases resistance to caries). Clean the spaces between your teeth with dental floss. It is also recommended to rinse your teeth with antibacterial liquids. However, brushing your teeth thoroughly after every meal is not enough. Bacteria that cause caries are also found on the tongue. That is why you need to remember to clean it at least once a day. There are special toothbrushes and scrapers designed for this purpose, which remove the coating and bacteria from the tongue. It is worth avoiding sweets because sugar is a breeding ground for bacteria that cause caries. Good eating habits are important, i.e. not snacking between main meals. If such snacks are needed, reach for healthy things: instead of cake – an apple, instead of chips – a carrot, instead of a candy bar – a kohlrabi 🙂 Regular visits to the dentist allow for early detection of caries. Treatment is then less painful. Children should visit the dentist once a quarter, adults – every six months.

Yes, people suffering from periodontal disease (periodontal disease) should stop smoking. The main cause of the disease is bacteria that accumulate in dental plaque (deposit, tartar). However, tobacco is a factor that promotes the appearance of periodontal disease. This means that in people who smoke cigarettes, the disease changes will progress faster and be more severe.

Periodontitis, or periodontitis, is influenced by various factors. The most important of them are bacteria found in dental plaque (also called deposit or tartar). They are the ones that cause periodontal disease. One of the main symptoms of the disease is bleeding gums and abnormal, deep pockets around the teeth. Treatment involves professional teeth cleaning, or so-called scaling. However, if the pockets are very deep, the tip of the scaler will not reach their bottom and complete removal of dental deposits will not be possible. Then curettage is necessary. Genes are responsible for increased (or decreased) susceptibility to periodontitis. If parents suffer from this disease, it can be assumed that their children are more susceptible. They should then take special care of their oral hygiene, regularly remove tartar and deposits, and visit the dentist for check-ups every six months (even every 3 months).

Mouthwashes help maintain oral hygiene. However, they cannot replace a toothbrush and dental floss. Where a toothbrush and dental floss cannot reach, a mouthwash will reach. It works on the principle of mechanical rinsing from hard-to-reach places. It helps reduce existing bacterial plaque and prevents the formation of new plaque. It also has antibacterial effects through the chemicals contained in its composition. There are many mouthwashes on the market, to date there are no reports of their harmfulness, but you should always familiarize yourself with the composition of the liquids and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Liquids containing chlorhexidine are very effective but they cannot be used for longer than 2 weeks, because they can cause tooth discoloration. Liquids containing alcohol cannot be used by everyone either. Fluoride-containing liquids are used to prevent tooth decay. How often you should rinse your mouth with them depends on the manufacturer and the doctor’s recommendations, most often 1-2 times a day.

Chewing gum is often recommended by dentists as an additional way to maintain oral hygiene. However, it does not replace regular brushing of teeth, use of dental floss and mouthwashes. It is also worth remembering that chewing gum should not last longer than 10 minutes at a time. This avoids muscle fatigue and excessive strain on the temporomandibular joints. People with jaw joint problems are advised against chewing gum because it can intensify the symptoms. Those who wear orthodontic braces should also give up gum because chewing can damage one of the elements of the braces.

You can brush your teeth well with both a regular and an electric toothbrush. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, for example, a regular one is cheaper. It doesn’t matter what kind of toothbrush you use, the most important thing is the time you spend brushing your teeth (at least two minutes with both a regular and electric toothbrush) and changing your toothbrushes frequently. If the bristles curl outwards, it’s a sign that your toothbrush needs to be replaced. A worn-out one doesn’t clean your teeth well and can damage your gums.

It is worth using dental floss. However, if you use the wrong technique for cleaning the spaces between your teeth, there is a risk of damaging your gums. That is why it is worth asking your dentist to show you how to use the floss. The easiest way is to use waxed floss, preferably with added fluoride, which additionally protects against caries. If the floss tears when you remove it from the interdental space, there may be two reasons for this: a filling with an overhang or a carious cavity. In such a situation, you should visit a dentist. He will check the condition of your teeth, correct the fillings or cure the cavity.

Cleaning between your teeth (where your toothbrush can’t reach) prevents gum disease and bad breath. How to use floss? Loosely wrap about 50 cm of floss around the middle fingers of both hands (there should be a little more on one finger than the other), leaving about 2-3 cm between the fingers. Then, tighten the floss with your index fingers, using your thumb to help, and gently slide it between your teeth. Wrap the floss around the tooth (to create a C) and gently move it from the base to the top of the tooth. Clean each interdental space with a new piece of floss. Floss should be used every time you brush your teeth. It is best to first brush your teeth thoroughly, and then floss the interdental spaces.

Dentists agree that it is worth using mouthwashes. They are usually used twice a day. The liquids have different tasks, so it is worth choosing them according to your needs. Some mouthwashes contain amine fluorides, which strengthen the enamel and make it more resistant to caries. These liquids (Elmex, Elgydium Junior) can be used by children over 6 years of age. Others prevent tooth hypersensitivity (Elgydium Sensitive, Sensiskin). They contain fluoride compounds. Antiseptic mouthwashes (e.g. Listerine) prevent periodontal disease and tartar formation. They cannot be used by children under 12 years of age. Mouthwashes with chlorhexidine (bactericidal effect) are used in cases of gum and periodontal disease. These liquids (Corsodyl, Eludril) help treat periodontal disease. They cannot be used for longer than 14 days because they cause discoloration. After 14 days, a month’s break is recommended.

The procedure of removing tartar and dental plaque (so-called scaling) using ultrasound is very effective. The device used for this purpose resembles a thick marker. The tartar is removed by vibrating the tip. Water subjected to cavitation (cold boiling) flows through the opening in the head, which breaks off and rinses away bacterial plaque and tartar. After the procedure, a special rotating brush removes the remaining plaque and polishes the teeth. This procedure can take up to about an hour.

Sandblasting is a procedure that complements the removal of dental tartar (scaling), and is especially recommended for people who smoke cigarettes and drink a lot of coffee and tea. Sandblasting helps to more thoroughly clean the spaces between the teeth, which are difficult to reach with scaling tools. Sandblasting should be completed by polishing the surface of the tooth.

Dry mouth, technically called xerostomia, is most often associated with salivary secretion disorders (so-called true xerostomia). There is also pseudoxerostomia, when saliva secretion is normal but the patient still feels dry. There are many causes of this condition. It can be caused by certain medications, systemic diseases, e.g. diabetes or oral candidiasis. People who smoke, wear dentures or breathe through their mouths instead of their noses are more likely to suffer from xerostomia. Treatment of the condition depends on its cause, which is why appropriate tests must be carried out to help determine it. Treatment may consist of, for example, discontinuing or changing certain medications or treating a systemic disease (e.g. diabetes). Sometimes, the therapy is supplemented by administering medications that stimulate saliva secretion, and chewing sugar-free gum and quitting smoking are also recommended.

Deep pockets are one of the symptoms of periodontal disease. This disease can lead to loosening and loss of teeth. Abnormal pockets can also form when wisdom teeth erupt. However, the most common cause is poor oral hygiene. Pockets form when structures around the tooth (gums, ligaments, bones) are destroyed by plaque that was not removed during teeth cleaning. Bacteria and food debris accumulate in deep pockets. If the changes are not very deep, they can be cleaned by a dentist or hygienist (professional removal of dental deposits). Cleaning deeper pockets unfortunately requires surgery. Special toothbrushes are designed for the care of such changed areas. They should be used until the changes are removed by a dentist.

Teeth that overlap create difficult conditions for maintaining good oral hygiene. Crowded, rotated incisors are difficult to clean properly. Inadequate brushing of teeth causes a plaque to remain on their surface or between the teeth, which mineralizes over time and forms what is commonly known as tartar. It is the cause of persistent inflammation of the gums and then the periodontium, i.e. the structures surrounding the tooth root. This leads to the destruction of, among other things, the bone in which the tooth is embedded, then loosening of the tooth, and in extreme cases, to its loss. However, this situation will not occur if oral hygiene is properly maintained. Incorrectly positioned teeth are not only a problem of poor cleaning. A tooth that stands in the arch differently than it should takes on a different distribution of chewing forces than those for which it was created, which can also lead to its loosening due to overload. Before making a decision regarding orthodontic treatment, you should always talk to your doctor about the possible complications of the treatment. As with any medical intervention, we may encounter certain problems during brace treatment. The most important question that should be asked before starting treatment is whether the patient will be able to attend regular check-ups and whether they will be able to brush their teeth after every meal. Lack of regular visits increases the likelihood of complications, and lack of proper hygiene causes tooth decay and gum inflammation. Very often, before orthodontic treatment, the doctor refers the patient to have wisdom teeth removed. This happens in cases where there is not enough space for the third molars or these teeth are positioned incorrectly, which in both cases does not promise their eruption. An incorrectly positioned wisdom tooth can also damage the adjacent tooth. In such cases, the teeth are removed before starting treatment to avoid problems while wearing the brace. It is much more convenient for the patient and sometimes the doctor to remove the tooth when the brace is not yet in place. Leaving a poorly prognosed wisdom tooth can cause inflammation during treatment, which will make further treatment difficult for some time and will be very uncomfortable for the patient. At the current level of development of dentistry, tooth extraction is no longer a painful procedure, and painkillers also eliminate post-procedure discomfort. Of course, as with any extraction, complications can occur, but this can never be predicted.

Fixed braces do not harm the teeth and do not cause the teeth to decay. The only condition for this to actually happen is to maintain good hygiene. Fixed braces create many retention places for food residues, so you cannot allow this food to accumulate there. After every meal, and even after drinking (except water), you should simply brush your teeth. There are special toothbrushes for brushing the teeth of patients with fixed braces. At least once a day, before going to bed, you should brush your teeth thoroughly using dental floss (there are special helpful devices that allow you to use dental floss when wearing fixed braces). Single-tuft toothbrushes are very useful, thanks to which you can thoroughly clean the surfaces of the tooth near the bracket, as well as the brackets themselves. An irrigator is also useful, from which water flows out under pressure and rinses the deposits from places that are difficult for the toothbrush to reach. You can also use mouthwashes.

Not only children and adolescents benefit from orthodontic treatment. More and more adults are also wearing braces. Adult age is not a contraindication to this. It all depends on the type of malocclusion, the problems that accompany it and the patient’s expectations. Orthodontic treatment at a later age can have a beneficial effect on the periodontium, and is often an integral part of periodontal treatment. It can also be a preparatory treatment for prosthetic treatment (making bridges, skeletal dentures) or surgical treatment (implantation, improvement of facial features). Correcting some malocclusions is a supportive treatment for temporomandibular joint disorders. A nice smile and improved aesthetics of the teeth also bring greater satisfaction and better well-being. Of course, braces are not a silver bullet for all problems. Orthodontic treatment, like any medical intervention, carries a certain risk and the possibility of complications, which the patient must be aware of before starting treatment. All pros and cons should always be considered.

For patients who value the cosmetic effect during orthodontic treatment, fixed aesthetic braces or the Invisalign system are designed. There are 2 types of fixed aesthetic braces. The first is a brace consisting of ceramic, sapphire or composite brackets. They are made of more or less transparent materials, which is why the brace is less visible (however, other components of the brace are still visible, which are only available in the metal version). Such a brace costs around PLN 2-3 thousand (one arch) depending on the type of brackets used. The second type of fixed aesthetic brace is a lingual brace. It is fitted from the inside of the teeth (i.e. from the tongue side). This brace is completely invisible. However, it is much more expensive – one arch costs around PLN 4-8 thousand. The Invisalign system is a series of transparent splints replaced from time to time.

Removable braces are usually used in children between 4 and 12 years of age. There are different types of these braces, selected for the type of malocclusion being treated. The form of the brace recommended by the orthodontist also depends on, among other things, the severity of the malocclusion and the age of the patient. Most often, a removable brace (the patient can insert and remove it from the mouth themselves) consists of an acrylic plate, the color of which can be chosen by the patient, wire elements holding the brace, and screws and springs (these are the parts that are the source of force acting on the teeth). With the help of a removable brace (so-called equalizing), you can only, for example, tilt excessively tilted teeth, but you cannot move the roots, which is why this type of brace is usually not used in adults. Removable braces are worn for several hours a day. The longer they are worn, the faster the effects of the treatment are visible. In patients in the phase of intensive growth, they can be used to modify it.

Yes. You cannot have a straightening brace if the patient has symptoms of periodontal inflammation, i.e. bleeding gums. Orthodontic treatment involves moving teeth into the bone. This is only possible when the tissues surrounding the tooth (gums, ligaments, bone) are healthy. Therefore, in each case, inflammation must be eliminated before orthodontic treatment. Professional teeth cleaning and learning how to brush your teeth properly are very helpful in this. During ongoing orthodontic treatment, you also cannot allow inflammation to recur or appear. If the patient cannot handle hygiene while wearing fixed braces, the orthodontist may even refuse further treatment.

Before installing braces, all teeth must be treated. When wearing fixed braces, the patient must strictly observe oral hygiene, including brushing their teeth after every meal and limiting sweets. If, despite this, the doctor notices a cavity, it must be treated. However, installing a filling does not require dismantling the entire brace. It all depends on where the cavity is located. Only in some places is it necessary to remove parts of the brace, i.e. the arches that are attached to the brackets glued to the brackets.

After fitting fixed braces, you need to brush your teeth after every meal and drink, except for water. Special toothbrushes, flosses and liquids are used for this purpose. For example, brushes have special recesses for brackets, which makes it easier to clean hard-to-reach places. Other toothbrushes have only one tuft of bristles, which allows you to get under the arch attached to the brackets. However, you should not give up using a regular brush, because the braces are only attached to the outside of the teeth. The inside should be washed with a standard toothbrush. You should also use dental floss, with a special tip for threading and inserting it into the space between the teeth. Additionally, it is recommended to rinse the mouth with liquids, e.g. OrthoKin or Listerine. Cleaning your teeth is also made easier by an irrigator. This is a special tip from which water escapes under pressure and cleans hard-to-reach surfaces. You should not forget about regular teeth cleaning at the dentist. The dentist removes tartar (using ultrasound) and deposits (using a sandblaster, a brush and an appropriate paste).

Retention treatment is always used after orthodontic treatment, it is a treatment that maintains the effect of orthodontic treatment. After treatment with a fixed appliance, a fixed retention (a wire permanently glued to the inside of the teeth) and a removable one are used. Retention in these cases is practically lifelong. At the patient’s request, after 2 years, the wires can be removed, but then the risk of the defect recurring increases. In adults and those with periodontal disease, retention is absolutely lifelong. In the case of treatment with a removable appliance in children, the most common retention device is the appliance used for treatment, which is worn for some time only at night. The duration of such treatment is decided by the attending physician.

Pierwsze zęby mleczne wyżynają się w wieku 6-9 miesięcy. Najczęściej spotykana kolejność wyrzynania się ząbków to: jedynki dolne, jedynki górne, potem dwójki górne, dwójki dolne. Następnie wyżynają się pierwsze trzonowce mleczne (czwórki), kły mleczne (trójki), drugie trzonowce mleczne (piątki). Pełne uzębienie mleczne dziecko ma w wieku 20-30miesięcy. Później ząbkują wcześniaki, dzieci z krzywicą, maluchy po ciężkich chorobach.

Dentists are increasingly less likely to recommend taking fluoride tablets. The decline in popularity of this form of prevention is related to the fact that fluoride deficiency is less and less common. Local fluoridation (e.g. tooth varnishing) is used more often. On the other hand, an overdose of fluoride is dangerous not only for the teeth, but also for the entire body. It causes so-called fluorosis. It manifests itself in stains and erosions of the enamel. In addition, taking fluoride is less effective in preventing caries than its local application. This does not mean that tablets are not used at all. There are justified cases when they must be administered, e.g. to children who are at high risk of caries. The daily dose is determined by the dentist, taking into account the level of fluoride in drinking water and other sources of this element. There are areas in Poland, e.g. Malbork, where the concentration of fluoride in the air is so high that a large group of children there suffer from problems with their enamel. It has an abnormal color and structure. In this case, taking additional tablets is completely unjustified.

Permanent teeth begin to erupt at the age of 5-6 (the sixths and incisors grow first). They will not appear earlier, even if there are no baby teeth left. If baby teeth fall out or are removed at the age of 3 or 4, a denture is necessary, because a child without teeth cannot grind food well, which causes digestive problems. A toothless toddler also has problems speaking. The orthodontist decides how the denture should be constructed and when to replace it (as the child grows). The child wears the denture until all the permanent teeth have erupted. How should you care for your child’s teeth once the permanent teeth have erupted? Is it good to encourage your child to brush their teeth after every meal? Isn’t brushing so often harmful to the enamel or gums, especially since children tend to press the toothbrush too hard and scrub? What toothpastes are best for children? Can mouthwashes be used in addition to mouthwashes? Preventing permanent tooth decay primarily involves maintaining oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist. A dental check-up for children should take place every 3 months, and in some cases, if the doctor allows it, every 6 months. During the visit, the doctor checks the hygiene, recommends and performs preventive procedures, and treats cavities. Dental caries is a disease caused by bacteria, so in favorable conditions it can spread from primary to permanent teeth, especially on contact surfaces. All primary teeth should be cured. Permanent teeth that have erupted should be sealed as soon as possible, i.e. the grooves on the chewing surfaces (the places most susceptible to caries) should be blocked against caries, this applies to molars and premolars. Teeth should also be regularly fluoridated, the frequency of such procedures is determined by the doctor. Most often, this is every six months or every year. How to care for your teeth at home? Of course, they should be brushed regularly, it is enough if it is done twice a day, if the right diet and eating habits are maintained. Brushing your teeth more often will not hurt anything, of course you should pay attention to the right brushing technique so as not to damage the periodontal structures. Toothpastes should contain fluoride, you should not use pastes with abrasive ingredients. You can use mouthwashes, but of course those that are approved for children. You should also introduce your child to using dental floss to clean the interdental spaces. It is very important to avoid snacking between meals. Of course, you should avoid sweets and chips. If your child eats such snacks, you should brush your teeth after them. Healthier snacks are raw carrots or kohlrabi. It is very reasonable to introduce one day a week for eating sweets, and introduce a ban on the other days. This model is widespread in Scandinavian countries.

Yes, especially if the right amount of them is still in the diet of the pregnant woman and then her baby. Providing the right amount of vitamins enables the proper development of tooth buds – milk and permanent – in the child (these buds are formed during intrauterine life). The most important vitamins for dental health are A, C and D. Their deficiency in the body causes, among other things, delayed tooth eruption, enamel hypoplasia (manifested in the form of cavities), and discoloration.

Bottle tooth decay is a very dangerous form of tooth decay that occurs in children up to 3 years of age. The disease develops quickly and can quickly lead to the destruction of teeth (characteristic black stumps form in the child’s mouth). The cause is prolonged bottle feeding, especially feeding sweetened foods and drinks, such as juice or milk with honey, through a pacifier before going to bed. Your child’s teeth should be cared for even before teeth appear. It is recommended to implement appropriate hygiene habits at that time. You should wash your child’s gum ridges with gauze soaked in water or chamomile infusion. As soon as the first teeth erupt, they should be brushed after meals (at least twice a day, especially before going to bed!). At first, you can wipe the teeth with gauze, and then introduce soft toothbrushes adapted to the child’s age.

The first visit to the orthodontist is usually recommended by the dentist when he notices some irregularities in the development of the bite. Parents are also often concerned that the child has crooked teeth and go to the orthodontist on their own initiative. It is always better to go for a consultation too early than too late. Some malocclusions should be treated when the child still has baby teeth. However, most malocclusions are ultimately treated after the permanent teeth have erupted, using fixed braces. Often, patients are treated with removable braces during the period of tooth replacement – so that later treatment with fixed braces is more effective. Straight teeth are important for several reasons: protruding incisors are exposed to injuries, and can also cause the child to feel bad. Malocclusions can increase tooth decay and gum disease (it is difficult to clean the teeth in places where the teeth are crowded), joint diseases and speech defects.

Lapis is a procedure that is used in children on their front baby teeth that are covered in extensive caries. Teeth are also lapis when a filling cannot be placed because the child does not want to listen to the dentist’s instructions. During lapis, a silver preparation is rubbed into the surface of the diseased tooth. Thanks to its bactericidal properties, this element inhibits the development of caries. The procedure is repeated several times, first every 7 days, then every three months. Often, the teeth turn black from the lapis preparation and remain so until they fall out.

If the child is very afraid of standard anesthesia, sedation (a type of anesthesia) with nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, can be used. The patient receives a special mask through which they inhale a mixture of gases: oxygen and nitrous oxide. Thanks to this, they feel relaxed and relieved. Some people under the influence of the gas even have very pleasant sensations, resembling dreams. Toddlers anesthetized with nitrous oxide are calm and even indifferent to what is happening around them. Many children do not even remember what happened during the visit after leaving the office. They feel good after the visit. Nitrous oxide has anesthetic properties, but not very strong ones. Therefore, some toddlers need additional anesthesia. However, children under the influence of laughing gas are not afraid of the injection and do not defend themselves against it. Nitrous oxide is administered to children over 3 years of age (the patient must cooperate with the doctor and follow his instructions). The toddler must be completely healthy, for example, they cannot have a cold.

Even the smallest carious changes must be treated, because baby teeth should remain in the oral cavity until they are replaced with permanent ones. Removing a baby tooth is the last resort. However, if the tooth is the cause of purulent inflammation, it cannot be left. Firstly, because bacteria from it enter the bloodstream, and secondly, purulent inflammation can damage the tooth bud that is located underneath it. If a baby molar is removed at the age of 6, the space left behind must be protected so that the neighboring teeth do not move towards each other and do not occupy the space needed for permanent teeth. The orthodontist decides how to do this.

First of all, you need to choose the right clinic. There are clinics specializing in treating small children who are unable to cooperate with the doctor (addresses can be found in the local newspaper). Such a clinic usually has toys and the child feels good there. During the first visit, the child familiarizes themselves with the clinic, but the doctor does not perform any procedures, sometimes not even looking at the teeth. There is time for this during the next visit. However, if the child still protests against the treatment, you can give them a sedative syrup the day before and on the day of the visit. If such preparation fails and treatment is necessary, the procedure can be performed under anesthesia.

Permanent teeth have a different structure than baby teeth. They contain more mineral compounds, which make the teeth better hardened and stronger, but they are therefore darker in color. Against the background of the white baby teeth, individual permanent teeth may seem darker than they actually are. When only „adult” teeth remain in the child’s mouth, their yellowish color is not so striking.

The saying that pregnancy destroys teeth is completely untrue, but every woman who is planning a pregnancy should cure tooth decay, gum disease or periodontal disease. It has been proven that these diseases can cause premature birth. All periodontal disease and caries are caused by pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, they should be eliminated from the body before a woman gets pregnant. At least three visits to the dentist are recommended during the entire pregnancy. It is necessary to monitor whether tooth decay or periodontal disease is developing. In the first trimester, it is better to avoid dental procedures, unless there is an urgent need – severe toothache, swelling or fever. During this very important time for the developing embryo and then the fetus, no medications should be administered and it is better not to expose the pregnant woman to stress. It is best to start treatment in the second trimester. The next three months are the period when all medications pass more easily through the placenta into the baby’s blood. Therefore, it is better to postpone dental treatment (in the third trimester, only previously started treatments are completed). Due to hormonal changes in the body of a pregnant woman, her gums may bleed. A pregnant woman should take special care of oral hygiene, i.e. brush her teeth at least twice a day. This should not be forgotten, even if brushing your teeth causes vomiting (this often happens especially in the first trimester). In addition, during pregnancy, you should follow the advice of a gynecologist, eat healthily (remembering about products with calcium – a bone building block), rest a lot and avoid stress.

Prolonged sucking of a pacifier prevents the jaw from developing properly, which leads to malocclusion. The sucking reflex in a child should disappear in the first year of life. If we do not give up soothing the child with a pacifier at that time, the reflex turns into a habit. The longer the child uses a pacifier, the harder it is to wean them off it. A dentist can help you say goodbye to this „comforter”. They will select the appropriate plate to replace the pacifier. Plates have different structures and sizes. Standard vestibular plates are made of hard material. The doctor may also recommend a soft plate, sometimes more comfortable for the child, but also more expensive. Weaning takes several weeks. Once this is achieved, the malocclusion heals on its own because the bones of a small child are very plastic. If you do not start taking action when you cannot wean the child off the pacifier yourself, the malocclusion may become permanent. Treating them at a later age (with orthodontic braces) will be more burdensome and expensive.

Teeth fluoridation procedures, according to the regulation of the Minister of Health from 2003, should be carried out in schools. Children should fluoridate their teeth 6 times a year, every 6 weeks. Parents must be notified by the school about the fluoridation. Unfortunately, in many schools, the regulation is not implemented. Parents must then take care of the fluoridation of their children’s teeth themselves. Dentists recommend the varnishing method.

Dental caries is caused by bacteria, so it is an infectious disease. A child is born without teeth and there are no bacteria responsible for tooth decay. These microorganisms enter the mouth from the environment, e.g. from the mother licking the pacifier. The condition for the development of caries is the presence of food for bacteria (food remains lying mainly in the grooves of the teeth and in the spaces between the teeth). That is why oral hygiene is important (children who are just a few months old need their teeth cleaned). There are no other effective ways to combat caries except prevention. Women planning a pregnancy should therefore have their teeth cleaned. In addition to brushing your teeth at least twice a day, you should also follow several rules: do not snack between meals, avoid sticky foods that stick to the tooth surface, limit eating sweets, and check the condition of your teeth. Emerging carious lesions must be treated as soon as possible.

Very often, children with protruding upper incisors suck a finger or a pacifier. It is necessary to teach them not to do this, for example by smearing their fingers with bitter preparations or by putting on a fingerless glove. This is necessary because if this habit is not overcome, it may cause the malocclusion to worsen. Finger sucking can also cause other abnormalities that parents may not notice, such as stunted growth of the lower jaw. It is always worth seeking advice from your dentist. Your doctor may recommend appropriate exercises, such as jaw thrusting.

No, these are two different treatments. Only teeth that have grooves on the so-called occlusal surface. These places are most susceptible to tooth decay. This is where the tooth most often begins to decay. The grooves must first be thoroughly cleaned. Then the dentist fills them with an appropriate material. Thanks to this, cavities in the teeth are eliminated. The teeth are then easier to clean and protect against caries. It is best to seal your teeth immediately after they erupt. Then, every six months, such teeth should be checked for caries and whether the sealant has not washed out. When it comes to varnishing, it is used on all tooth surfaces. The treatment involves covering them with fluoride varnish. This substance is supposed to strengthen the enamel, making the tooth less susceptible to caries. Teeth varnishing, depending on the preparation and tendency to caries, should be repeated every six months or every year.

In Poland, a special toothpaste with a fluoride content of 250 ppm (250 parts of fluorine per million parts of solution) is intended for children. The point is that excess fluoride can be toxic. Therefore, for a child who cannot spit out well and often swallows toothpaste, using adult toothpaste with a high fluoride content may be harmful. On the other hand, there is no clear evidence that toothpaste with such a low amount of fluoride prevents tooth decay. Therefore, in some countries, e.g. Norway, there are no longer toothpastes with a fluorine content of less than 1000 ppm. On sale are the so-called family pastes. This means that the whole family uses the same product, just in a different amount. Children who already have teeth, up to the age of 3, put a toothpaste the size of half a pea on their toothbrush. Brushing must be supervised by a guardian who will not allow the child to swallow the toothpaste. After the age of 3, when the toddler can spit out well, a pea-sized paste is put on the toothbrush, for older children, just like for adults – a „bean size”. Brushing should be monitored until the child is comfortable with this activity.

First of all, you should take care of your own oral hygiene. Not everyone knows that caries is an infectious disease. The baby is born without cariogenic bacteria in the mouth. However, if the baby comes into contact with them (e.g. because the mother gives him a pacifier that he has licked), then harmful microorganisms settle on the baby’s gums and then on his erupted teeth. In this case, the risk of dental caries in infants increases significantly. It is also recommended that the mother chew xylitol gum 3 months before the baby’s teething (i.e. from the third month of his life). Xylitol works, among others: antibacterial. The gum should be chewed 5 minutes after meals (4-5 times a day). ATTENTION! Chewing gum does not replace brushing your teeth. It is also important to treat any defects of the parents. This significantly reduces the risk of your child being infected with caries. To prevent your baby from getting dental caries, you must also take care of his or her oral hygiene from the moment of birth. Before the teeth erupt, you need to wash your gums with a gauze pad soaked in water or chamomile. When the first teeth appear, it is recommended to use a special children’s toothbrush. You should also not let your child fall asleep with a bottle in his mouth. This is how „bottle tooth decay” occurs. The milk remaining in the mouth is an excellent breeding ground for bacteria that cause tooth decay. In addition, saliva secretion decreases during sleep, which promotes tooth decay. Preventing caries also means taking care of a proper diet. You should avoid foods that contain caries, i.e. do not accustom your child to sweets or chips.

The upper teeth erupt at approximately 6 years of age. The absence of these teeth at the age of eight can be a cause for concern. You should go to the dentist immediately. The doctor usually recommends taking a panoramic radiograph, i.e. an X-ray that shows all the teeth present in the mouth and the relationship of unerupted teeth. Often, children with persistent (too long) primary teeth have supernumerary teeth that interfere with the eruption of permanent primary teeth. It is then necessary to remove them.

Whenever possible, primary teeth should be treated rather than removed. This prevents some malocclusions. Primary front teeth, if their root resorption (loss) has not yet started, can be treated with root canal treatment as in adults. However, other materials are used to fill the canal – those that will disappear along with the root of the tooth preparing to be replaced. Lateral primary teeth are treated differently. They have very curved roots, between which there are permanent tooth buds. Manipulating the tools at this point could damage the bud. Therefore, a medicine is placed in such a tooth to protect the pulp in diseased root areas against further changes.

Both the bridge and the denture are prosthetic restorations that replace missing teeth. The bridge is a permanent restoration, the patient cannot remove it from the mouth on his own. It connects the so-called abutment teeth, i.e. teeth adjacent to the space left by the missing tooth. It is permanently cemented in the mouth. A bridge is usually difficult to distinguish from real teeth. In patients with healthy periodontium and proper oral hygiene, it can last up to 10 years, but then it needs to be replaced. A denture, however, is a removable restoration, the patient can remove it at any time. It is held on the teeth thanks to wedging and metal clasps. Skeletal dentures (made of metal and acrylic) or partial removable dentures (only made of acrylic) are used. Due to bone loss, acrylic dentures require more frequent replacement and are recommended as a temporary replacement.

After each meal, you must remove the dentures from your mouth and wash them thoroughly with a separate brush intended only for this purpose and a special paste or powder for dentures, or simply with ordinary soap. This prevents food debris remaining on the artificial jaw from irritating the gums. Do not clean the dentures with ordinary toothpastes because they contain abrasive ingredients that may damage the denture surfaces. The denture should be removed at night unless your doctor advises otherwise. At night, it should be stored dry in a clean container with access to air; before putting the denture into the container, it should be washed thoroughly.

It is very important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Delaying a visit after a broken tooth prolongs the treatment time. The choice of treatment depends on how large the defect is. In case of minor damage (fracture of a piece of enamel), the tooth can be simply smoothed and protected with varnish. If the fracture is larger, the tooth should be rebuilt using composite fillings. If part of the crown is broken off, it must be reinforced with a special insert (a pin or a pin). It constitutes a scaffolding for a filling or crown made in the workshop. If the nerve has been damaged, before the tooth can be rebuilt, it must be treated with a root canal. In severe cases of tooth root fracture, it is necessary to remove it.

Veneers are performed to improve the aesthetics of teeth, mainly front teeth. Depending on the material they are made of and the conditions in the patient’s oral cavity, veneers can last up to 10 years. After this period, they should rather be replaced due to the structure of the gums, which changes with age. There are no health or age contraindications. Veneers are not performed on very damaged or dead teeth; in this case, it is better to make a crown.

There are different types of crowns, the most common ones are a porcelain crown on metal and an all-ceramic crown (mainly in the anterior section). A porcelain crown on metal is a metal cap that covers the tooth directly, and porcelain is placed on it (using the firing method). If the crown is made properly, it gives very good cosmetic results. Sometimes, a bluish discoloration of the gums may occur only around the crown. This is caused by the presence of metal. A porcelain crown on metal does not glow in ultraviolet light. Therefore, if a person with this type of crown smiles in such lighting, e.g. at a disco, he will look as if he had no tooth. When you smile broadly, you can also see a rim of metal near the gum on the palate side. All-ceramic crowns (they are much more expensive than metal ones) are practically indistinguishable from a natural tooth. There is no metal in them, they do not cause discoloration of the gums and under ultraviolet light they glow like your own tooth.

Yes. Teeth can be whitened even in one day, but only in a dentist’s office. You need to reserve about 1.5 hours for this procedure. First, you need to mark the color of your teeth according to the so-called shade guide. This is done so that after bleaching you can see what result has been achieved. Then you need to protect your gums. Carbamide peroxide and hydrogen in the form of a gel are used for whitening. It is applied to the teeth and then exposed to a special lamp (2-3 times). The whitening gel changes the structure of the enamel so that it appears whiter. After the procedure, the patient must use a special paste recommended by the dentist. For 72 hours he cannot eat colored foods (e.g. beets, carrots, spinach) or drink colored liquids (coffee, tea, red wine). This is the so-called „white diet”. The final color of the teeth is determined 2 weeks after the procedure. The teeth to be whitened must be healthy, free from caries and cervical cavities. The treatment should be repeated after approximately 2 years because the teeth darken slightly over time. Teeth can also be whitened at home using splints and special preparations. First, during the visit, the dentist takes impressions on the basis of which the splints are made. The patient himself applies the whitening material received from the doctor to the splints. The splints are worn for several hours a day (usually at night) for 7 to 14 days.

There are various methods to remove gaps between teeth. The choice of method depends on the patient’s age and the cause of the gaps. First, you should visit a dentist who will assess the type of defect and recommend appropriate treatment. There are several possibilities, but the most common cause of gaps (in children and adults) is the incorrect position of the teeth. Orthodontic treatment is then recommended. The patient is recommended to wear a fixed brace and then the so-called retention, maintaining the effects of treatment. Gaps between teeth also occur when one of the teeth is missing. Then prosthetic treatment should be considered (e.g. installation of a bridge, implant, prosthesis). Another cause of gaps is the small size of the teeth in relation to the bone in which they are located. In such a case, the teeth can be enlarged (built up) using special materials. Large gaps between teeth may also be a symptom of periodontitis. Then the progression of the disease should be prevented by using special periodontal treatments.

A discolored, even dead tooth can be whitened with a special preparation. The doctor first prepares the tooth (as for root canal treatment, but also uses a layer of insulating preparation), and then places a whitening material inside. The preparation is replaced several times (e.g. 3-5), every 2-5 days. Of course, it is very difficult to achieve perfect tooth whiteness and it is not always possible – it is especially difficult to whiten the places right next to the gums. If the tooth is very damaged and has a large filling, instead of restoring its natural color, it is often better to opt for a post and a crown.

Obecnie produkowane wybielające pasty do zębów są bezpieczne. Działają na zasadzie rozpuszczania przebarwień pochodzących z pożywienia i napojów, i nie powodują ścierania się szkliwa. Wyjątek stanowią pasty dla palaczy tytoniu, które zawierają substancje ścierne i z tej przyczyny nie powinny być dłużej stosowane (przez kilka tygodni lub miesięcy). Pasty wybielające mogą mieć dodatkowe działanie lecznicze, np. antybakteryjne i remineralizacyjne, wszystko zależy od zawartych w nich składników. Zalecenia do ich stosowania są indywidualne. Jeżeli podczas stosowania pasty pojawi się nadwrażliwość zębów (reakcja na zimne, ciepłe, kwaśne), powinno się zaprzestać używania pasty wybielającej. Należy pamiętać, że żadna pasta nie zastąpi profesjonalnego czyszczenia zębów, podczas którego usuwany jest osad z miejsc niedostępnych dla szczoteczki i kamień nazębny. Niektórzy lekarze zalecają używanie past wybielających w celu podtrzymania uzyskanego efektu po zabiegu wybielania zębów.

Teeth whitening treatment is not performed on children under 16 years of age. They should also not use whitening toothpastes with abrasive substances. At this age, the tooth development process has not yet been completed. The layer of dentin separating the enamel from the pulp is very thin. During the procedure, it could become irritated and cause pain. If your child has an unpleasant tooth color and is under 16 years of age, you can have your teeth cleaned by a dentist (tartar removal and sandblasting). Usually, after such a treatment, the teeth appear brighter.

The method of removing caries using a turbine drill and drills is still the most effective. But there are other ways. One of them is the use of Carisolv gel. The preparation is applied to the cavity to soften carious lesions. Then the doctor removes them and installs a filling. To remove caries, you can also use a dental laser, which works like a drill. For small cavities, ozone can be used to destroy bacteria that cause tooth decay. Another drill-free treatment method is air abrasion. Carious lesions are removed with a stream of aluminum oxide under appropriate pressure. This method is recommended for children and pregnant women. However, please remember that sometimes you need to use a drill. Moreover, the treatment time performed using new methods is significantly longer.

There are patients who decide to have their teeth treated under general anesthesia. However, not every dentist can perform this procedure. The decision, based on the interview (questions about general health, medications taken) and tests, is made by the anesthesiologist who will also be present during the procedure. However, general anesthesia carries a risk of complications (e.g. heart rhythm and respiratory disorders). During the procedure under anesthesia, teeth can be treated as well as removed. The entire treatment can be carried out in one visit, but it will take a long time. The price of anesthesia is PLN 500-600 per hour, each additional hour costs PLN 200. The price of general anesthesia should include the cost of dental activities, e.g. cleaning cavities, placing fillings, root canal treatment.

All dental procedures that cause pain to patients can be performed under anesthesia. First, however, the doctor must conduct an interview to avoid the risk of complications. He will ask, among other things, what the patient is suffering from and whether he is taking any medications. At the beginning of the procedure, a gel or spray is applied to the mucous membrane to make the needle insertion painless. After a while, the dentist introduces an anesthetic using a special syringe. Then he waits a few minutes for the medicine to work. After this time, you can perform the run painlessly. Some offices use other methods of anesthesia, e.g. using a special needle-free syringe and a computer system – then the speed of the administered anesthesia is controlled by a microprocessor.

When treating a tooth, the dentist always strives to save the nerve. If the defect is small and does not reach the nerve, in most cases the doctor is sure that the entire carious lesion has been removed. However, if the defect is deep and reaches the nerve, there is a high probability that bacteria have already reached it. Root canal treatment is then performed to ensure that all the caries has been removed. However, the tooth is dead (the nerve has been removed). In intermediate situations, when the defect has been successfully cleaned, but a very thin layer separates it from the nerve, a filling can be performed. In such cases, however, it is possible that after treatment, the tooth hurts when biting, and it also reacts to cold and hot food and drinks (not sweet ones). This means that the bacteria responsible for the cavity have already penetrated deeper into the tooth, leading to inflammation of the nerve. In this case, the filling must be removed and the tooth treated with a root canal.

The cause of grinding may be hyperactivity, a lot of stress or anxiety. In children, the cause of teeth grinding may be pinworms, so before visiting a dentist, you should visit a pediatrician who will rule out systemic causes. When treating grinding, appliances are used to relieve pressure and prevent tooth wear. The brace (splint) is worn at night. If grinding also occurs during the day, the splint should be worn in stressful situations, when I grind my teeth the most. The type of brace (standard or custom-made) depends on the occlusal conditions.

Amalgam fillings were once commonly used to fill cavities. Such fillings are very durable and resistant. So if they were made correctly and are tight, there is no need to replace them. This is not advisable, especially since each filling change is associated with the loss of part of the tooth. However, if there is even the slightest leak in the filling (it would be best assessed by a dentist), there is no point in waiting and the filling should be replaced as soon as possible. However, each composite filling (white) should theoretically be replaced every 5 years. Of course, the final decision to replace the filling is made by the doctor. If the doctor does not notice any disturbing symptoms, the filling does not need to be changed. The filling needs to be replaced when it is no longer tight, i.e. a gap appears between the tooth and the filling. A leaky filling may cause tooth decay, may cause pain, and most importantly, it does not protect the tooth against harmful factors of the external environment (bacteria, temperature changes). This, in turn, may cause inflammation and tooth death. This condition may even be asymptomatic at first, which is why regular dental check-ups at the dentist’s, at least once a year, are so important. The doctor is able to notice the leakage of the filling earlier and determine the need to replace it. This will protect the patient against the development of caries in the tooth, and perhaps even against root canal treatment, which is much more expensive than replacing the filling. Leakage, just like the change in the color of the filling, is related to the wear of the material, it is normal, everything that is used changes and wears out. In addition, the color of our teeth changes slightly, which intensifies the difference in color between the tooth and the filling.

The cause of tooth decay may be the so-called cervical defects. They take the form of grooves that form in the tooth close to the gum (so-called abrasive cervical indentations). When we eat acidic, hot or cold foods, the nerve endings in the open dentinal tubules become irritated. Then ailments appear, such as toothache. Cervical cavities are caused by malocclusion and bruxism, i.e. clenching of teeth (teeth are overloaded and crack), as well as improper brushing technique (scrubbing the teeth causes the gums to lower and tooth roots to be exposed). That’s why it’s so important to correct malocclusions early and brush your teeth properly – from the gum towards the top of the tooth, as if you were brushing something. You can also massage the gums with your fingertips (pull them over the teeth). In case of hypersensitivity, sensitive pastes should be used to close the dentinal tubules. Herbal rinses can also help because they have gentle anti-inflammatory properties. However, you must not use toothpastes containing abrasive (whitening) ingredients. However, if the symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit a dentist who will examine the cavities and recommend treatment.

Liquid enamel is most often used in the dentist’s office. Dentists call this paste (GC Tooth Mousse) containing recaldent. It is a combination of calcium phosphate and casein. The paste restores the mineral balance in the mouth. It releases calcium and phosphorus, which are incorporated into the tooth, making it more resistant to caries. It also supports the action of fluoride and neutralizes the action of acids produced by bacteria. The use of the paste is recommended for people with the so-called erosive cavities, e.g. in patients with reflux disease (stomach acid destroys the enamel). It should also be used by people who have had their braces removed and their teeth cleaned, as well as people who have hypersensitive teeth. The paste also effectively removes white spots on teeth. Therefore, it is recommended after teeth whitening treatment. The dentist applies the paste to the teeth for 3 minutes, then the patient spreads the rest of the preparation with his tongue and rinses his mouth. The treatment is recommended as a preventive measure twice a year, together with fluoridation. The paste cannot be used by people allergic to cow’s milk protein and children under 7 years of age.

The reason for this situation is most often improper functioning of the temporomandibular joint. The cause of this condition may be changes related to missing teeth, too strong clenching of teeth under stress or bite disorders. Improper functioning of the joint may also be the result of a single overload by opening the mouth too wide. These changes may also be the result of excessive stretching of the ligaments. In this case, there are also abnormalities in the functioning of other joints. These symptoms should not be ignored, as degenerative changes may occur in an overloaded joint. In such a situation, it is best to contact a dentist specializing in joint treatment. The doctor will determine the cause of the problems and recommend appropriate treatment, e.g. correction of malocclusion or a splint to prevent teeth clenching. The need for longer treatment with subsequent changes of splints may also be necessary to obtain proper conditions in the temporomandibular joints.

A decayed tooth is a source of bacteria that are distributed throughout the body in the blood. Migrating microorganisms can attack weakened or damaged areas and cause serious complications, such as bacterial endocarditis. That is why it is so important to keep teeth healthy, especially in people who suffer from chronic diseases: heart disease, kidney disease and others. A decayed tooth may also cause an abscess, not necessarily in the mouth, but may also cause a life-threatening condition, i.e. sepsis.

In adults, most medications (including vitamin preparations) do not adversely affect the teeth. The exception are lozenges (e.g. for the throat), which contain sugar. If used frequently, they promote the development of caries. Iron preparations, in turn, may cause enamel discoloration. Therefore, after taking the medicine, you must brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water. You should also be careful with antidepressants. They dry out the mucous membrane in the mouth (this increases the risk of caries). People taking them should take special care of hygiene.

A panoramic radiograph, i.e. a photo showing all the teeth, the bone around them, the temporomandibular joint and the sinuses, is a kind of dental business card. It should be performed before treatment at the dentist’s office begins. Thanks to it, the doctor knows the condition of the teeth and the structures surrounding them. He can also early detect carious lesions that are not visible during a regular examination, assess whether there are any unfavorable changes at the apices of the teeth, assess the position of the wisdom teeth and the structure of the periodontium. A panoramic radiograph is a safe examination and is performed even in children (especially before orthodontic treatment).

Exposed tooth necks and hypersensitivity (pain when eating sour fruit, sweets, drinking juices) are an increasingly common problem. When the gums recede, the part of the tooth that is protected by them becomes exposed to external factors. This causes hypersensitivity. The most common causes of exposed necks are improper tooth brushing technique (horizontal or circular movements pushing the gums and exposing the necks) and overloading the bite. To prevent the necks from being exposed, massage the gums with a toothbrush and slide them over the teeth. This technique can be taught by your dentist, just ask during your visit. He can also smear exposed necks with fluoride, which eliminates hypersensitivity. It is also recommended to use pastes and rinses for hypersensitive teeth and a soft toothbrush. You should also consult your dentist regarding bite overloads and their possible treatment.