Oral health is most often only prioritised when discomfort or pain has already set in.
Tooth decay and gum disease are widespread issues which can significantly impact your overall health.
September is Oral Health Month, an important time to reflect on dental health and raise awareness about how crucial it is to access quality dental care. Tooth decay doesn’t just compromise your smile; it’s also linked to various serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Research has shown that untreated oral health problems can lead to systemic issues, making it even more important to take proactive steps in caring for your teeth and gums.
This month, the provincial health department is encouraging everyone to learn about government dental services available to them and take the necessary steps toward better oral health.
Residents of Groendal and Klapmuts can look forward to outreaches by the department in the coming weeks. The dental outreach bus will visit Groendal Clinic from 09:00 to 14:00 on Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 September, as well as on Monday 6 and Tuesday 7 October.
The dental outreach bus will visit Klapmuts Clinic from 09:00 to 14:00 on Wednesday 1 and Thursday 2 October, as well as Monday 8 and Tuesday 9 October.
During the visits, locals can get fillings, have extractions done and their teeth cleaned. Questions can be directed to the two clinics. If you haven’t visited a dentist in a while or are unsure about the services available, now is the perfect time to take action.
The department is encouraging all residents to use the services offered by designated local clinics. These services include consultations, where a dentist will assess your oral health and discuss treatment options, as well as oral health education to help patients maintain proper hygiene and prevent disease.
For those who need restorative care, fillings are provided to repair cavities, while scaling and polishing are available to clean plaque and tartar buildup.
Extractions may be recommended when teeth cannot be saved, while fissure sealants offer protection against decay. For diagnostic purposes, intra-oral radiographs (X-rays) are used to uncover hidden problems, and minor oral surgery can be performed for specific dental issues.
If more advanced care is needed, patients may be referred to specialised clinics for treatments such as wisdom teeth removal or care for jaw fractures.
If you are looking to use these services, schedule an appointment in advance by calling or visiting your local clinic. Once your appointment is scheduled, you will receive a set date and time for treatment, ensuring that your visit is as efficient as possible.
Remember to take identity document or clinic card along, and for those under 18, parental consent is required for procedures like extractions.
Pregnant women are advised to consult with a dentist before receiving treatment to ensure that it is safe for both the mother and baby.
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