Brushing up on dental hygiene

Dr Maphefo Thekiso extracts one of Ziphezintle's rotten teeth. (File Photo)

“I never thought by neglecting my teeth all those years could have serious health consequences,” the 45-year-old woman told Health-e News. “I was embarrassed  of my appearance – a lot of my teeth had fallen out – I was ashamed to seek treatment.”

But recently Masina put her feelings of shame aside and went to her local clinic to seek help.

“I was diagnosed with gum disease. The dentist told me the reason my teeth had fallen out over the years was that of the gum disease.”

‘Couldn’t afford toothpaste’

Masina said her family was poor and they couldn’t afford toothpaste and toothbrushes so dental hygiene wasn’t a priority.

According to dentist Dr Innocentia Mbatha, oral hygiene is the regular practice of keeping your mouth and teeth clean to prevent dental problems such as cavities, gingivitis, gum disease and bad breath.  

Gum disease is a condition caused by bacteria and food debris that build up on teeth and form a sticky film known as plaque. As the plaque hardens, it forms tartar and more plaque continues to form. Ultimately, this results in the gums becoming swollen and red. As it worsens it can cause teeth to become loose because of the damage it causes to the soft tissue and bone underneath the teeth.

Mbatha said gum disease can be prevented by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing, changing your toothbrush regularly and visiting a dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning.

An edited version of this story was published by Health24.

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