Poor oral hygiene

This is the most common cause. Not brushing and flossing regularly causes food particles to remain in your mouth, attracting bacteria that produce foul-smelling sulfur compounds. This is why at Lassus Tandartsen, we recommend seeing an oral hygienist at least twice a year to detect and resolve such problems.

Mouthwash

Ironically, mouthwash, which is often marketed as a product that can improve dental hygiene, can actually cause bad breath. Here’s how.

• Alcohol Content: Many mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can dry out your mouth. Saliva is important for washing away food particles and bacteria, and a dry mouth creates a more hospitable environment for the bacteria that cause bad breath.  
• Masking: Mouthwash often masks the smell of bad breath temporarily rather than addressing the underlying cause. If you rely on mouthwash without practising good oral hygiene, such as flossing, using interdental brushes and brushing twice daily for two minutes at a time, bad breath will return.  
• Overuse: Overusing mouthwash can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your mouth. This can lead to an overgrowth of certain bacteria that produce unpleasant odours and plaque formation.
• Underlying Issues: In some cases, persistent bad breath despite using mouthwash could signal an underlying oral health issue like gum disease or tooth decay. It’s important to see a dentist if you have chronic bad breath.

If you must use mouthwash, here are some additional tips:

• Choose alcohol-free mouthwash.
• Use mouthwash in moderation. Follow the directions on the label.
• Don’t rely on mouthwash as your sole oral hygiene method. Brush and floss regularly.
• See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Smoking or Vaping

Smoking or chewing tobacco can leave a lingering odour and also contribute to gum disease, another source of bad breath.

Vaping

While vaping might seem like a less harmful alternative to smoking, it’s important to be aware of its potential effects on your oral health.

• Dry Mouth: Vaping can reduce saliva production. Saliva is essential for washing away food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath.  
• Nicotine: Nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums, which can contribute to gum disease and bad breath.  
• Chemicals in Vape Juice: Some chemicals in vape juice can irritate the mouth and throat, leading to inflammation and bad breath.  
• Increased Bacteria: Vaping can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your mouth, leading to an overgrowth of odor-causing bacteria.  

Gum disease

Gum inflammation (gingivitis) and the more advanced form, periodontitis, can cause bad breath due to the buildup of bacteria in the pockets between your gums and teeth.

Food

Certain foods, such as garlic, onions, and spices, can cause bad breath because their breakdown products enter the bloodstream and are released in the breath. This is another reason why practising good oral hygiene is essential.

Coated tongue

If bacteria accumulates on the back of your tongue, this can cause a pungent and unpleasant odour.

Alcohol

Alcohol dries out the mouth which can lead to bad breath

Respiratory infections: Sinus infections, tonsillitis, and bronchitis can cause bad breath.  

Acid reflux (GERD): Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus can cause bad breath.  

Other conditions: Some medical conditions, like diabetes, kidney failure, and liver disease, can also cause bad breath.  

Other factors:

• Dentures: Improperly cleaned dentures can harbour bacteria and cause bad breath.  

If you’re concerned about bad breath, practising good oral hygiene, including brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and cleaning your tongue, is important.

Suppose your bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene. In that case, we recommend a combination appointment with an oral hygienist and a dentist to rule out any underlying medical conditions and find a solution.   You’re welcome to make an appointment with our dental specialists even if you’re not a registered client of our practice.

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Inadequate Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene is the cause of almost all dental problems. Inadequate flossing and brushing, along with consuming sugary drinks and food, can lead to plaque and tartar accumulating along the gum line, which can cause irritation and bleeding. This is why at Lassus Tandartsen, we recommend visiting one of our oral hygienists at least twice a year for a checkup and dental cleaning.

Gingivitis

One of the most common causes of bleeding gums is plaque buildup on the gum line, which leads to inflammation and irritation of the gums. Additional symptoms can also include sensitivity and tenderness of the gum tissue and slight bleeding when brushing, flossing, or probing during a dental examination.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that causes damage to the gums and bone that can eventually jeopardize the health of your teeth.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, also known as dental cavities or caries, is caused by several factors, including frequent consumption of sugary or acidic food and beverages and poor brushing and flossing. If left untreated this can also cause dental erosion.

Medication Useage

Bleeding gums can be a side effect of certain medications, such as blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, and warfarin), which can reduce the blood’s ability to clot, leading to gum bleeding.

Hormonal Changes

The menopause, menstruation or pregnancy can cause hormonal changes that increase gum sensitivity and bleeding.

Dental Appliances that no longer fit correctly

Dentures, braces, or retainers that do not fit properly can rub against the gums, causing irritation and bleeding.

If bleeding gums persist, make a combined appointment with one of our oral hygienists and dentists. Even if you’re not an existing client of Lassus Tandartsen, we’ll be happy to find the causes of your bleeding gums and find a resolution for them.

The post What causes bleeding gums? appeared first on Lassus Tandartsen.

B – Brushing
Use an electric toothbrush for two minutes at least twice a day. Don’t brush your teeth until 30 minutes before or after eating. 60 minutes is even better

C – Cavities
Prevent cavities by maintaining good oral hygiene and reducing sugar intake from drinks and food.

D – Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups (preferably twice yearly) are crucial for detecting and preventing oral health issues early.

E – Endodontics
Endodontics is a specialised area of dentistry that focuses on treating disease or injury to the dental pulp, also known as root canal treatment.

F – Flossing
Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth and molars that a toothbrush can’t reach.

G – Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition of the gum tissue caused by the buildup of bacteria on the teeth. It is an early form of gum disease that has not progressed to the point of tissue or bone loss.

H – Halitosis
Bad breath, or halitosis, can indicate poor oral hygiene. To prevent it, maintain good oral care practices.

I – Implants
Dental implants are a solution for replacing missing teeth.

J – Jaw Health
Maintaining jaw health involves avoiding habits like teeth grinding and seeking treatment for bruxism disorders.

K – Kids’ Oral Health
Prevention and good dental hygiene are important to keeping your child’s teeth healthy. Teeth brushing and healthy nutritional habits play important roles in this.

L – Local Anaesthetic
Local anaesthetic is used to anaesthetise your teeth, thus keeping any pain caused by the process to a minimum. Major treatment is usually carried out under local anaesthetic.

M – Mouthwash
Avoid mouthwashes with alcohol or colouring. Ask your dental hygienist for further advice.

N – Nutrition
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports healthy teeth and gums. Limit your consumption of sugary food and drinks to six or seven moments a day.

O – Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment involves strategically attaching metal or ceramic brackets to misaligned teeth, connecting them with a special wire incrementally adjusted to align the teeth and jaw.
There is also the possibility of using invisible braces from Invisalign®.

P – Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that causes damage to the gums and bone that can eventually jeopardise the health of your teeth.

Q – Quit Smoking
Smoking can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. Quitting smoking improves oral health.

R – Root
The part of the tooth below the crown is generally encased in the jawbone. It comprises dentin, includes the root canal, and is covered by cementum.

S – Scaling
A procedure used to remove plaque, calculus and stains from the teeth.

T – Tartar
Tartar is a form of hardened dental plaque.

U – Ulcers
Mouth ulcers can be caused by irritation, stress, or certain foods. To prevent infections, maintain good oral hygiene.

V – Veneers
Veneers also known as facings, are a solution for cracks between your teeth. They can help repair multiple broken teeth and deliver a beautiful smile.

W – Whitening
Teeth discolouration can cause embarrassment, which is one reason that more and more people are opting for teeth whitening.

X – X-Ray
Not everything is visible to the eye, which is why dental x-rays are taken in order to detect any structural problem with teeth, molars or jawbones.

Y – Yearly Checkups
At a minimum, have dental checkups once a year, though twice yearly is preferable.

Z – Zinc
Zinc is an important mineral for oral health, helping to fight bad breath and support the immune system.

The post The A to Z of Oral Hygiene appeared first on Lassus Tandartsen.

How to improve your smile and confidence

At Lassus Tandartsen our cosmetic dentistry treatments focus on improving the appearance of your gums, teeth and overall smile.

While our traditional dentistry treatments focus on preventative care, such as oral health and hygiene, cosmetic dentistry is all about improving the aesthetics of your teeth and smile. It involves various procedures to correct issues such as discolouration, misalignment, gaps and other conditions in order to improve your smile and confidence.

What are the goals of cosmetic dentistry?

The goals include:

Functional Enhancements

Improving the function of the teeth and bite. This contributes to better oral health.

Restoration

If your teeth have been damaged by injury, decay or wear and tear, cosmetic dentistry can ensure that they will look natural and healthy.

Aesthetic Improvements

The primary goal is to enhance the visual appeal of your teeth and smile. This can boost self-confidence and improve social interactions.

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

At Lassus Tandartsen, we perform numerous cosmetic dentistry procedures in-house. The first step in deciding which procedure is best for you will begin with a regular checkup from your dentist. At Lassus, we usually recommend seeing an oral hygienist and then a dentist at least twice a year.

If you’re a new client, during the first intake meeting, we’ll take x-rays of your jaws and carry out an in-depth review of the state of your teeth, gums, and jaws. We’ll also discuss any dental issues or aesthetic improvements you would like or may need to have.

The list below covers some of our most commonly performed cosmetic dentistry procedures

1. Dental Implants

Purpose: Replace missing teeth

Procedure:

• A consultation and assessment of your health
• Diagnosis through the use of a CBCT scan
• Placing of the implant(s)
• After 7-10 days removal of stitches and review of the status of the recovery process
• After 8-12 weeks, the placing of a crown, prosthesis or bridge

You can learn more about dental implants here including information about the cost and frequently asked questions.

2. Invisible braces: Invisalign®

Purpose: Straightening crooked or misaligned teeth

Invisalign® is a virtually invisible way to straighten teeth. Based on your mouth’s current situation and desired result, a series of invisible braces is made. Each subsequent brace brings you one step closer to the desired end result. 

Procedure:

• Intake interview to discuss your goals and requirements
• Treatment plan
• Impressions made of your mouth with an impression tray and modern digital scanner
• Custom brackets are made from the impressions. Clear aligners that are virtually invisible when compared to normal braces
• Placement of the braces. The dentist orthodontist will ensure they fit properly and show you how to how to click the invisible braces in and out and how to clean the Invisalign®.
• Periodic checkups
• After treatment

You can learn more about Invisalign® braces, the costs involved, and more details about the treatment and process here.

3. Teeth whitening

Purpose: To improve the colour of teeth by removing stains and discolouration caused by food, drink, smoking, or ageing.

Because we can guarantee a much better result than in-office whitening, we only offer at-home whitening treatments.

Procedure:

• Extensive cleaning of your teeth to ensure the best possible results for teeth whitening
• Imprints will be made of your mouth, and a dental technician will make bleaching trays for your upper and lower jaws
• An appointment will be made for you to collect the trays, and you’ll receive instructions on using the cleaning gel for four to ten nights at home
• You’ll also receive advice on which foods and drinks to avoid during the usage of the bleaching trays

More details on teeth whitening can be found here.

4. Bridges

Purpose: It is used to replace a missing tooth. It uses teeth on either side of the missing tooth for support.

Procedure:

• The teeth on either side of the missing tooth are prepared
• The prepared teeth are scanned, and the creation of the bridge begins
• It is then fabricated while you wait
• When the bridge is ready, final adjustments are made, and it is cemented into place.

5. Crown lengthening

Purpose: To improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth by exposing more tooth material than is available under the gum line. This procedure has both cosmetic and functional uses.

Cosmetic Use

Gummy smile

When excessive gum tissue covers the teeth, making them appear short, this is known as a gummy smile. Crown lengthening removes excess tissue, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing smile that boosts confidence.

Functional Use

Tooth Decay or Fractures Below the Gum Line:

If decay or fractures extend below the gum line, crown lengthening can expose more of the tooth, allowing proper restoration with a crown or filling.

Procedure:

• Local anaesthetics are applied
• Incision and Gum Tissue Removal
• Increase the amount of tooth material by modifying the surrounding bone and tissue
• The area is then sutured and allowed to heal
• Follow-up appointment ten days after the procedure to remove the sutures and check the healing process

Orthodontics

Purpose: Orthodontics focus on correcting teeth that are crooked, misaligned, or too far forward. They can also correct teeth when there’s not enough room in the jaw, and braces can be a good solution for such problems if the teeth and molars don’t fit well together.

Procedure:

• Intake and discussion of the individual treatment plan
• Investigation (Xrays, mouth examination, and creation of jaw and teeth models)
• Placing of the braces
• Check-ups (every 4 to 8 weeks) during the treatment period

You can learn more about the procedures, options and cost of orthodontics here.

Cosmetic dentistry offers various treatments to address aesthetic and functional concerns. Whether through teeth whitening, dental implants, bridges, or orthodontic solutions such as invisible braces, cosmetic dentistry can provide transformative results that enhance appearance and boost confidence. If you’re considering improving your smile, make an appointment with one of our specialists to explore the best options for your needs.

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The approach taken at Lassus Tandartsen is focused on preventative rather than reactive care. This is why we recommend regular checkups with an oral hygienist and a dentist.

This article explains the different types of Dental Surgery carried out by the specialists of Lassus Tandartsen and the scenarios in which you might need them.

1. Surgical Extraction

SOME OF THE SYMPTOMS THAT MAY REQUIRE YOU TO HAVE A SURGICAL EXTRACTION

• Teeth or molars that are fractured or damaged beyond repair
• Advanced periodontal disease
• A major infection or severe tooth decay that cannot be resolved with a root canal treatment
• Wisdom teeth removal
• Impacted teeth or molars removal

Procedure

Tooth extraction involves removing a tooth from its socket in the bone. Depending on the tooth’s condition and location, extractions can be simple (performed under local anaesthesia) or surgical (involving an incision and sometimes bone removal).

2. Tooth Implants

Reasons to have dental surgery to have tooth implants placed

Tooth implants are often required due to the following:

• To replace missing teeth
• To support crowns, dentures or bridges
• To enhance jawbone stability or structure

Lassus Tandartsen has extensive in-house expertise in implantology.

Procedure

Before implants are placed, you will go through the following process:

You’ll have a consultation with an implantologist to discuss the options and possibilities for implants. An assessment of your health will take place including your overall health, medication use, allergies, and any medical issues or complications from earlier dental treatment.

• Diagnosis through the use of a three dimensional CBCT scan
• Placing of the implant(s)
• After 7-10 days removal of stitches and review of the status of the recovery process
• After 8-12 weeks, the placing of a crown, prosthesis or bridge

An example of the placing of a single implant is in the video below.

3. Wisdom Tooth Extraction

The surgical extraction of wisdom teeth is one of the most common dental procedures.

Reasons to have wisdom teeth extracted

When a wisdom tooth threatens the health of the surrounding teeth, jawbone or gums, our dental specialists may recommend a surgical extraction of the wisdom teeth.

The Extraction Procedure

• Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia will be administered
• Incision: If the tooth is impacted, an incision in the gum is made to expose the tooth and bone.
• Bone Removal: Sometimes, bone blocking access to the tooth root must be removed.
• Tooth Sectioning: The tooth may be divided into sections if it is easier to remove in pieces.
• Extraction: The tooth is extracted.
• Stitching: The site may be stitched to promote healing.
• Gauze Placement: Gauze is placed to control bleeding and help a blood clot form.

4. Sinus Lift

The sinus lift procedure increases the amount of bone in the upper jaw, specifically in the area of the molars and premolars. This surgery is often necessary when there is insufficient bone height in the upper jaw, or the sinuses are too close to the jaw to allow for the placement of dental implants.

In which situations might I need a sinus lift?

The sinus lift might be required in the following situations:

• Dental Implants: To successfully place dental implants in the upper jaw, a certain amount of bone is necessary to secure the implant. If there is not enough bone, a sinus lift can create the necessary foundation.
• Bone Loss: Over time, the upper jawbone can lose density and height due to tooth loss, periodontal disease, or other factors.

The Sinus Lift Procedure

Preparation: Before the procedure, a thorough examination, including X-rays or three-dimensional CT scans, will be carried out by our specialists to assess the anatomy of your jaw and sinuses. This helps plan the surgery and determine the amount of bone graft material needed.

5. Gum Correction Surgery

Gum correction, also known as gum reshaping, gum contouring or periodontal surgery, describes a range of procedures designed for functionality, health and appearance of the gums.

In which situations might I need gum correction surgery?

Gum correction surgery might be required in the following situations:

• Gummy Smile: Correcting a gummy smile, uneven gum lines, or other cosmetic issues can significantly enhance and improve the appearance of your smile.
• Periodontal Disease: If you are diagnosed with gum disease and it has reached a point where non-surgical treatments will be ineffective, surgical intervention is required to reduce pocket depth, remove diseased tissue and regenerate healthy tissue.
• Gum Recession: Gum correction can cover exposed roots, reduce sensitivity, and protect against further recession.
• Preparatory Procedures: Some restorative dental work, such as crowns or bridges, requires more tooth structure to be exposed. Gum correction can create the necessary conditions for these procedures.

6. Guided Bone Regeneration

Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) is a dental surgical procedure used to promote the growth of new bone in areas with insufficient bone volume.

In which situations might I need Guided Bone Regeneration?

GBR is often necessary in the following situations:

• Dental Implants: To create sufficient bone volume for the stable placement of dental implants.
• Sinus Lifts and Ridge Augmentation: To enhance bone volume in preparation for other surgical procedures like ridge augmentation or sinus lifts
• Bone Loss: To regenerate bone lost due to periodontal disease, trauma, or tooth extraction.

This article covers the most common types of dental surgery. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms described in this article, please feel free to make an appointment with one of our specialists, regardless of whether you are registered with Lassus Tandartsen or not, we’ll be happy to help you.

The post Dental Surgery What Is It And When Is It Required? appeared first on Lassus Tandartsen.

Some of the symptoms that may require root canal treatment

Do you experience any of the following?

Sensitivity to hot or cold drinks or food

Do you avoid eating ice cream or drinking a hot coffee due to experiencing severe pain? Does the pain continue even after you’ve stopped eating or drinking?

Severe toothache while chewing

Does it hurt when you attempt to chew food?

Discolouration or darkening of the tooth

A previously healthy tooth that has darkened considerably and stands out from the rest of your teeth and molars is an indicator that the tooth may have suffered nerve or soft tissue damage.

Swelling/Inflammation of gums

Are your gums inflamed? Particularly near the tooth that is causing you pain?

Recurring Pimple on the gums

Intermittent recurring pain

Do you experience unbearable pain in a particular tooth that comes and goes?

Painful throbbing sensation of the affected tooth

What is involved in Root Canal Treatment?

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Treatment

Alternatives to Root Canal Treatment

The only viable alternative to Root Canal Treatment is to extract the affected tooth. This can also be carried out in combination with placing a bridge or implant. However, we recommend having a root canal treatment. If you are nervous or anxious about the procedure, our specialists are trained in dealing with dental anxiety and can help deal with any concerns you have about the procedure. You can always contact us and speak with a specialist before the procedure.

Would you like to learn more about root canal treatment? More information can be found here.

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Tooth decay is one of the most common dental health problems. It affects people of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds. From very young children to seniors. But what are the common causes of tooth decay?

Tooth decay, also known as dental cavities or caries, is caused by several factors including:

Excessive consumption of sugary or acidic food and beverages

Frequent consumption of sugary or acidic food and beverages is a common cause of tooth decay. The bacteria that reside naturally in your mouth feed on the residues of sugary and acidic food and drinks, which are broken down into acids. The acids form plaque that can damage the enamel of your teeth and cause tooth decay and a condition known as dental erosion.

Poor oral hygiene

Poor oral hygiene refers to behaviours and habits that result in the buildup of tartar, plaque and bacteria in the mouth. Irregular brushing of teeth, lack of flossing or not spending enough time when brushing are all examples of poor oral hygiene. This can lead to some of the following:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition of the gum tissue caused by the buildup of bacteria on the teeth. It is an early form of gum disease that has not progressed to the point of tissue or bone loss.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that causes damage to the gums and bone that can eventually jeopardize the health of your teeth.

Symptoms of tooth decay

Tooth decay can manifest itself in some of the following ways:

Sensitive teeth

Increased sensitivity to hot or cold drinks and food.

Halitosis (Bad Breath)

Persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, may be caused by the bacteria that contribute to tooth decay.

Discolouration

Brown, black or white spots on teeth and molars

In addition to the above, if you experience any of the symptoms below you should also urgently make an appointment with one of our specialists, regardless of whether you’re a registered patient or not.

• Loose teeth or molars
• Bleeding gums during teeth brushing
• Swollen and red gums
• Recurring problems with tartar
• Receding Gums
• Regular occurrences of cavities
• Pain when biting and chewing food

How to prevent tooth decay

So far we’ve covered the causes and symptoms, but what are the best ways to prevent tooth decay?

Tips and tricks to prevent tooth decay

You can prevent tooth decay by doing the following:

• Use an electric toothbrush for two minutes at least twice a day
• Don’t brush your teeth until a minimum of 30 minutes before or after eating, 60 minutes is even better
• Floss at least once daily and use dental brushes or sticks to remove food deposits that get stuck between your teeth
• Reduce the consumption of acidic beverages such as soda and fruit juice
• Have a maximum of 6-7 consumption moments for food and acidic or sweet drinks
  

See an oral hygienist at least twice yearly

In addition to the tips above, the best method to prevent tooth decay is to regularly visit a dental hygienist. This is a good preventative measure to take to ensure the long-term health of your teeth.

We advise that you have a twice-yearly combined appointment with a dentist and an oral hygienist. The Dentist will check for any problems with your teeth, and the dental hygienist will clean your teeth and gums. After the cleaning, our dental hygienists will advise on how best to look after your teeth.

Preventing and quickly identifying tooth decay issues will ensure that you maintain your smile and prevent any health complications that can arise as a result of tooth decay.

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