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Patient Education at Fletcher Dental Care

Education

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At Fletcher Dental Care, we believe that informed patients make the best decisions about their oral health. Our commitment to patient education ensures that you understand the various aspects of your dental health, as well as the treatments available to you. We are dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy smile and overall well-being through comprehensive education on key dental topics. Below, we provide an overview of several important areas of care: TMJ therapies, mouthguards, sensitive teeth, and wisdom teeth extractions.

TMJ Therapies

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders can cause facial, head, and back pain, significantly affecting your quality of life. After an initial assessment, we aim to improve your health by offering relief from the discomfort associated with TMJ disorders. The following are the core treatments available for TMJ sufferers at Fletcher Dental Care:

  • Soft Tissue Laser Therapy: This non-invasive treatment helps reduce inflammation and discomfort in the TMJ area by stimulating healing in the soft tissues.
  • Orthotic Appliances: Custom-made appliances help correct the bite and relieve the pressure on the TMJ, allowing the muscles to relax.
  • Permanent Removable Appliances: These removable devices are designed to reposition the jaw and alleviate the tension causing TMJ pain.
  • Full Mouth Reconstruction: In more severe cases, a comprehensive approach to restoring your bite and smile through dental restorations can bring long-term relief.

Mouthguards

Mouthguards are essential for protecting your teeth during physical activities and preventing damage from teeth grinding (bruxism). Whether you’re an athlete or a nighttime grinder, our custom-fit mouthguards offer superior protection and comfort compared to store-bought options.

  • Sports Mouthguards: Protect your teeth from injury during contact sports. Our custom mouthguards are designed to fit perfectly, reducing the risk of damage.
  • Night Guards: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, we offer night guards to prevent wear and tear on your teeth and reduce jaw pain.

Sensitive Teeth

Do you experience sudden pain or discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods? Tooth sensitivity can result from several factors, and understanding the cause is the first step in finding relief.

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Receding gums

Improper brushing or gum disease can lead to exposed tooth roots, which are sensitive to temperature changes.

Fractured or chipped teeth

Damage to the teeth can expose the inner layers, causing sensitivity.

Clenching or grinding

Excessive pressure on teeth can wear down the enamel, making them more sensitive.

Aging

As we age, our teeth naturally become more sensitive due to enamel erosion.

Treatment for Sensitive Teeth

Soft-bristle toothbrush

Using a soft-bristle toothbrush helps prevent further gum recession.

Special toothpaste

Toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can block nerve access or desensitise the nerve itself.

Fluoride rinse or gel

A dentist-recommended fluoride treatment can help strengthen your teeth and reduce sensitivity.

Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. However, in many cases, there isn’t enough space for them to properly erupt, leading to impacted teeth that can cause pain, infections, and damage to neighboring teeth.

Why Wisdom Teeth May Need to Be Removed

  • Impacted wisdom teeth: When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge, they may become stuck in an undesirable position.
  • Potential complications: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to infections, cysts, or tumours, which may damage surrounding teeth and bone.
  • Preventive care: Removing wisdom teeth before they cause significant issues can help prevent future dental problems.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure

At Fletcher Dental Care, wisdom teeth removal is a common outpatient procedure. Depending on your case, the extraction may be performed under local anaesthesia, IV sedation, or general anaesthesia. Our trained dentists will provide post-operative care instructions to help you manage any discomfort or swelling after the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?
Common symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth, and difficulty chewing. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact us for a consultation.
For sports, a mouthguard should be worn during all practices and games. If you use a night guard, wear it every night to prevent grinding or clenching damage.
Relief can be immediate with the use of special toothpaste, but more severe cases may require additional treatments like fluoride applications or dental procedures.
The procedure itself is painless due to anaesthesia. Post-operative discomfort is manageable with prescribed medications and proper care, and it typically subsides within a few days.
While sensitivity can often be managed with treatments and lifestyle adjustments, some cases may require more advanced procedures to provide long-term relief.
Wisdom teeth are often removed in your late teens or early twenties before they cause complications. Regular dental check-ups can help determine the optimal time for removal. At Fletcher Dental Care, your oral health is our priority, and we are committed to helping you understand and manage your dental needs. If you have any questions about these services or any other dental concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert advice and care.

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Let our caring team make your next visit effortless, and feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns—we’re here to support you every step of the way.

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