Keeping your teeth right, with PRSI
An exam and routine cleaning is now €15 for those qualifying under PRSI. If a more extensive clean is needed, your PRSI will also cover a portion of the cost.
How do I know if I need a clean?
It may be very obvious as you will clearly see stain. Healthy gums will be pink, firm to touch and won’t bleed on brushing. Brushing your teeth should not cause them to bleed, this bleeding is caused by bacteria in the soft sticky substance plaque. Swollen gums, otherwise known as gingivitis, is the start of gum disease and often is your first indicator that you have a problem. Just like a cut on your hand, your gums will be tender and bleed easily. In this case go back to the area and carefully brush again, aiming the bristles down into the gum. The area should clear up in 3-5 days.
If your gums are not responding you may need a mouth wash. Just like TCP it will speed up the healing process. Corsodyl works well but will stain if used for more than two weeks. Perio Kin shouldn’t stain and a good home remedy is hot salty mouth wash.
If you can see hard build up and stain down at your gum line then you will not be able to remove this yourself and you need to attend the dentist or hygienist. Once it has been removed then you will be aiming to stop it reforming.
Your Dentist or Hygienist can help with any discomfort or pain anticipated by you when this build up is being removed. For mild sensitivity tooth mousse can be applied, for heavy tartar the area can be numbed with anaesthetic. Bring your earplugs to your appointment if you wish, whatever makes you more at ease in the chair.
Untreated gum disease leads to loss of the bone supporting the teeth and ultimately loss of the teeth. Many years ago it was called pyorrhoea, a term often used by grandparents.
Prevention is better than the cure. Ideally a check-up and clean visit once a year. Many patients will attend the hygienist on a 6-monthly basis and some 3-monthly as this is best to keep their mouth clean and healthy. Your dentist or hygienist will advise each person individually.
Back to Basics
1. Brush twice a day not twice a week for two minutes, firm not scrubbing;
2. Use a soft or medium toothbrush, a small plain flat head is perfect;
3. A pea size amount of adult toothpaste for everyone over the age of two;
4. Spit out the toothpaste and don’t rinse with water;
5. Use floss or interdental brushes to clean between teeth;
6. If you smoke cut down and aim to quit. Smokers need to attend more frequently as smoking makes gum disease worse.
Don’t ignore any bleeding in your mouth, it’s your body's way of telling you something is not quite right. Take charge, make your appointment.
