Prevention

Expert advice for a long lasting smile and healthy mouth.

Children’s Health

Fluoride applications and fissure sealants (tooth coloured sealants) are applied to biting surfaces of children’s teeth to prevent decay.

Dental Hygiene

Dental hygiene treatment at Hanham Dental includes professionally cleaning the teeth for the patient by our dentists and our therapist. This is usually called scaling and polishing. However, perhaps our most important role is teaching the best way to keep the teeth free of plaque via oral hygiene demonstration.

Bad Breath

Bad breath is a very common problem and there are many different causes. Persistent bad breath is usually caused by the smelly gases released by the bacteria that coat your teeth, gums and oral soft tissues. However, strong foods like garlic and onions can add to the problem. Smoking is also one of the main causes of bad breath, along with certain illnesses such as nasal and stomach conditions. Bits of food that get caught between the teeth and on the tongue will rot and can sometimes cause an unpleasant smell. So correct and regular brushing is very important to keep your breath smelling fresh. The bacteria on our teeth and gums (plaque) also cause gum disease and dental decay. If you see your dentist regularly this will not only help prevent bad breath but will also let the dentist look for and treat these problems.

Gum Disease Treatments

Screening for gum disease forms an integral part of your routine examination. Gum disease describes swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontal disease. Our clinicians will explain the reason these conditions may occur, and advise you on the best course of action to prevent the condition from deteriorating.

Tooth Decay Detection

Tooth Decay may or may not cause discomfort; even though it doesn’t hurt, the tooth may still be deteriorating. Using higher magnification and powerful lighting, it is easier to detect decay at an early stage to prevent excessive tooth damage. When cavities are small, they are much easier and less expensive to treat. Early tooth decay does not tend to show many physical signs. Sometimes the tooth looks healthy, but your dentist will be able to see from an x-ray whether you have any decay under the enamel, any possible infections in the roots, or any bone loss around the tooth.

Mouth Cancer Screening

Mouth cancer is a malignant growth which can occur in any part of the mouth, including the tongue, lips and throat. Mouth cancers have a higher proportion of deaths per number of cases than breast cancer, cervical cancer or skin melanoma. The mortality rate is just over 50%, despite treatment, with about 1,700 deaths per year in the UK. This is because of late detection. Visit your dentist at once if you notice any abnormal problems or are not sure. Regular dental checkups allow early detection of abnormalities in the mouth.

Mouth Cancer Foundation

Mouth Cancer Foundation | Helpline: 01924 950 950

The Mouth Cancer Foundation is a registered charity that raises awareness of mouth cancers and provides information and support to patients, carers and health professionals.

Giving Up Smoking

10 self-help tips to stop smoking

Read about 10 lifestyle changes that may help you stop smoking, including your food, drinks, who you spend time …

It’s not easy. Giving up smoking requires preparation, determination, and support. This site is here to help you with each of these. If you’re thinking about giving up, please visit the site or discuss stopping with one of our clinicians.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding or bruxism can cause problems with teeth, jaw pain, earache and headaches but can be prevented. Our clinicians can identify the condition and discuss methods of reducing the impact of this on your teeth.