Oral hygiene and diet are the perquisites in ensuring strong teeth and a healthy smile. We often neglect and mistreat our teeth until they become decayed, painful and have to be removed. Modern dentistry techniques and dental products leave us no reason why we should have stained or diseased teeth and gums. Here we will look at some of the different conditions that cause dental problem, how they can be treated and general tips for a pearly smile!

It is important to undertake advance planning, careful precautionary and preventative measures to help reduce the risk of falling sick on holiday. General information on common illnesses, conditions and basic precautions have been outlined below.

	Dental Plaque
	Tartar (Calculus)
	Tooth decay
	Gum Disease
	Discoloration
	Orthodontics
	Bad Breath (Halitosis)
	General Dental Tips
	General Tips for Parents

Dental Plaque
This soft, sticky layer of bacteria accumulates on the gums, along the gum line and on teeth. It is the main culprit in tooth decay and gum disease. It is made up of millions of bacteria that account for some 70% of plaque with the remainder constituting carbohydrate and saliva. Regular brushing will keep the plaque at bay.

Tartar (Calculus)
This is a hard, pale, brittle substance found on the surface of teeth. It is formed through the precipitation of calcium phosphate from saliva onto plaque. It is found vigorously attached to the surface of teeth and is difficult to remove through normal brushing. Tartar above the gum line is quite common and not a serious problem, however calculus under the gum can nurture plaque and prevent its removal, this can then lead to more serious problems. Removal of tartar requires the expert attention of your dentist.

Tooth decay
A common dental hazard, tooth decay or caries is caused by plaque bacteria which stick to the teeth and form acid which eats away at the surface of the tooth.

Tooth decay begins with the emergence of white spots on the enamel caused by the loss of calcium. This de-mineralisation process is countered by the natural defensive re-mineralisation process of the body. However when de-mineralisation becomes incessant a cavity is formed. If left untreated the bacteria may invade the pulp of the tooth resulting in continuous toothache. A clove or clove oil has been known to give relief from toothache whilst seeking professional assistance. The bacteria can also cause an abscess by reaching the root of the tooth, by which time extraction maybe the only option.
By taking x-rays your dentist will determine the extent of decay. The decaying tooth may require a filling, a root filling or extraction. Preventative measures include using a good fluoride rich toothpaste, regular brushing, flossing, regular check ups and a good diet void of excessive soft drinks, sweets etc. Ask your dentist for further advice.

Gum Disease
As plaque builds up around the base of the teeth, poor oral hygiene can cause changes in the quantity and quality of plaque and related toxins that are produced. This causes gingivitis, which is an inflammation and swelling of the gum tissue. This in turn results in the coming away of gum tissue from the root of the tooth. This creates a pocket allowing more plaque to accumulate and gum disease sets in. As explained earlier, plaque can harden to form calculus (tartar) which can be removed by your dentist. The early signs of possible gum disease are:

	Red swollen gums
	Bleeding gums
	Increased movement in teeth
	Coming away of gums from teeth
	Bad breath

Visit your dentist if you detect any of the above symptoms. He/she will x-ray your teeth to see whether the supporting bone of the tooth has been eroded. This is a common cause of tooth loss. See your dentist regularly and follow their advice. Brush your teeth regularly, use colouring tablets to expose plaque which you may have missed and remember to softly brush your gums as well as your teeth.

Discoloration
Cigarettes, chewing tobacco, tea and coffee are just some of the reasons why our teeth lose there natural colour. These stains are not easily removed by just brushing with normal toothpaste. To remove stains the first course of action is to acquire toothpaste, which contains an abrasive substance which gently cleans the teeth. There are many such pastes available.

A more serious course of action is to seek tooth-whitening treatment from your dentist. Your dentist will advise you on two safe techniques. The first is the home bleaching method monitored by your dentist which utilises a gel and tray system which resembles a boxers mouth guard.
The second method is via a simple medical procedure carried out in the dentist’s surgery. Darker teeth may take longer to bleach, as lighter stains are easier to remove. Tooth whitening can last from anywhere from 18 months to 3 years depending on eating, drinking and smoking habits. Most treatments administered by your dentist are safe and will cause no damage to your teeth. Always seek the dentist’s advice before undertaking any treatment.

Orthodontics
An orthodontic problem is known as a malocclusion which means that when a person closes their mouth they feel a bad bite and some discomfort. Examples include missing teeth, extra teeth and out of place jaws. Malocclusions can be the result of accidents, late loss of baby teeth or excessive thumb sucking.

A variety of orthodontic braces are used and adjusted over a period of time to gradually correct the fault. The two main types of brace are either fixed or removable. The length of treatment varies from person to person and generally takes longer in adult cases. The procedure is worth the commitment and improves the appearance of teeth and bite.

Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bacterial metabolisms within the mouth can cause bad breath also known as halitosis. Brushing with good toothpaste and rinsing with a mouthwash which has anti-caries and anti-plaque properties is a good way of reducing bad breath. Keep in mind thatadvanced tooth decay or caries can also be the cause of bad breath, especially when an abscess has been formed. If the condition persists, arrange a visit to see your dentist.

General Dental Tips

	Try and establish a routine in your brushing by always starting in the same place
	Your toothbrush should have a soft to medium texture and a comfortable feel in your mouth
	Brush at least twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste. Decay can occur overnight whilst you are sleeping
	Always brush the three surfaces of each tooth, the back, front and top.
	Remember to change your toothbrush every three month or when the bristles start to splay
	Visit your dentist at least once a year, so that your teeth can be properly examined
	Bacteria present in plaque feed on sugar in the diet and cause decay, so reduce intake of sugary foods
	Chew sugar free chewing gum which helps generate saliva which washes away acid
	Use the traditional Miswak, a thick twig which is very effective at cleaning teeth & a tradition of the Prophet (pbuh)
	Eat food that is kind to teeth, vegetables, fruit, plain popcorn, yoghurt, bread, pasta and rice.

General Tips for Parents

	Make your child brush with a fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first teeth appear
	Keep sweet foods and drinks to meal times only
	Do not put sweet drinks in a baby’s bottle
	Register your children with a dentist as early as possible