Dental Health Week at Western District Health Service
2 August 2010
In the interest of community development and oral health care awareness, the Australian Dental Association has introduced ‘Tooth Erosion’ as the primary focus of Dental Health Week for 2010.
And Western District Health Service Dental Therapist, Joanne Nelson is taking the opportunity to stress the importance of awareness in relation to the subject.
“Dental Health Week is a good reminder of the importance of looking after your teeth with tooth erosion being a special focus for this Dental Health Week. Tooth erosion can be prevented by reducing acidic foods and drinks, such as soft drinks. The simple message is that drinking water and having a healthy diet is an ideal way to keep your teeth and body health” Ms Nelson said.
“If tooth erosion occurs, people may notice some tooth sensitivity, rounded tooth appearance and transparent tips on the front teeth. In more advanced cases, erosion can lead to cracking of teeth, extreme sensitivity and tooth decay. Clearly prevention is always better than cure.” She said.
Ms. Nelson offers the following information and advice about tooth erosion and encourages people to contact their dentist if they have any of the signs or symptoms of tooth erosion, such as tooth sensitivity, rounded tooth appearance, transparent tips on front teeth, cracking of teeth, tooth decay or extreme sensitivity.
Facts about tooth erosion
Acid in the mouth dissolves and destructs the tooth surface and although teeth do have the capacity to repair themselves using minerals from our saliva, when the acid content in the mouth is consistently high, the tooth is unable to make the necessary repairs. This causes the enamel to become extremely thin and is referred to as “erosion”.
There are several causes of erosion, the main being acidic foods and drinks like soft drinks (non-diet and diet), fruit juices, and wine along with acidic foods such as pickles and citrus fruits.
Some medical factors may also contribute to the problem, especially those that cause decreased saliva flow, acid reflux disease, certain gastrointestinal conditions, eating disorders such as bulimia and other conditions where people vomit frequently. Some medications are acidic and may also cause a dry mouth, decreasing the saliva flow.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so avoid acidic foods and drinks, especially between meals and note that the ideal snack drinks should be non-acidic and non sugary; such as plain milk and water (most tap water contains fluoride, an extra benefit to drinking bottled water), or tea and coffee with no sugar (may use sweeteners).
Foods should be non-acidic and non sugary, such as toast/sandwiches, cheese and biscuits, vegetables and non acidic fruits (bananas, mangoes, melons).
If consuming acidic drinks, drink quickly using a straw, rather than sipping. Avoid swishing around in your mouth and avoid brushing your teeth for at least one hour before or after consuming acidic foods and drinks, as acid softens the enamel. Remember to brush your teeth a minimum of twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for approx three to four minutes.
The Dental service at Western District Health Service is free of charge for children up to Grade 6, however, older children and adults are also eligible if they have a health care or concession card. This includes a co-payment. Private services are now available for a limited time each week. For information regarding appointments and eligibility, please contact the Dental Clinic on 5551 8347.
Caption: WDHS Dental Therapist, Jo Nelson and Dental Assistant, Amanda Watt, tending to the dental health needs of patient, Zara at the WDHS Dental Clinic.