Dr Benjamin du Bruyn

Dr Benjamin du Bruyn ▪️Family Dentistry ▪️Implantology
▪️Aesthetic Dentistry ▪️Orthodontics
▪️Wisdom teeth removal ▪️Oral Hygiene
▪️Facial Aesthetics

04/06/2026

The difference between healthy gums and gum disease often lies beneath the surface.

As gum disease progresses, bacteria and inflammation can gradually damage the gums, periodontal ligament, and supporting jawbone. Over time, gums may recede, periodontal pockets can deepen, bone levels may decline, and teeth can become less stable. Because this process usually develops slowly, many people are unaware that significant damage is occurring.

One of the biggest concerns is that this damage often develops silently, with few noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Early diagnosis, effective plaque control, and regular dental care can help protect the structures that keep teeth healthy and stable for life.

Smile...
26/05/2026

Smile...


25/05/2026

Most people think wisdom teeth only become a problem when they hurt.

But impacted wisdom teeth can quietly damage the healthy tooth beside them long before any pain starts.

When a lower wisdom tooth grows sideways or gets stuck under the gums, it can trap bacteria and food between the teeth — creating an area that is extremely difficult to clean properly.

Over time, this can lead to cavities forming on the back side of the second molar, often hidden deep below the contact point.

A clinical study published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry found that distal decay in the second molar occurred in about 1 in 4 cases involving impacted lower wisdom teeth. The risk was especially high when the wisdom tooth was horizontally impacted and touching the neighboring tooth near or below the gumline.

The dangerous part is that this damage can remain completely silent in the early stages.

Many patients discover the problem only after:
• deep decay develops
• food gets stuck constantly
• the second molar becomes painful
• root canal treatment is needed
• or the healthy tooth beside the wisdom tooth can no longer be saved

That’s why regular dental X-rays are important — especially if you still have impacted wisdom teeth.

Sometimes, the tooth that hurts the least can cause the most damage.

📄 Reference:
Marques J, et al. Impacted lower third molars and distal caries in the mandibular second molar. Is prophylactic removal of lower third molars justified? J Clin Exp Dent. 2017;9(6):e794-e798.

08/05/2026

One decayed molar removed from Beatles legend John Lennon became one of the most expensive teeth ever sold.

In 2011, the tooth was auctioned for $36,857 and purchased by Canadian dentist Dr. Michael Zuk after being kept for decades by the family of Lennon’s former housekeeper.

According to the story, Lennon had the tooth removed because of a large cavity. He reportedly gave the tooth to his housekeeper, Dot Jarlett, wrapped in paper and initially told her to throw it away. He then changed his mind and suggested she give it to her daughter, who was a huge Beatles fan. The family preserved the tooth for years before it eventually went to auction.

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07/05/2026

Elevate your beauty with the luxury of smooth, refined confidence. Soften lines while preserving natural elegance. Reserve your appointment and indulge in timeless beauty ✨

30/04/2026

Most people think bleeding gums are a minor issue.
But long-term research shows something much more serious.

In large studies following adults for over a decade, people with chronic gum disease had a significantly higher risk of early death—especially from heart-related conditions. This doesn’t mean gum disease directly causes death, but it strongly signals deeper systemic problems.

Gum disease is not just irritation—it’s a chronic infection. Bacteria and inflammatory signals from the gums can enter the bloodstream, affecting blood vessels, metabolism, and the immune system over time, creating a constant low-grade stress on the body.

Interestingly, this risk cannot be explained by inflammation alone. Multiple pathways are likely involved, including bacterial spread, immune imbalance, and vascular damage—suggesting the mouth plays a much bigger role in overall health than previously understood.

Early signs like bleeding gums, bad breath, gum recession, or loose teeth are often ignored—but they are not normal. They may be the first visible warning signs that something deeper is happening in the body.

📄 source:
DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03139-4

24/04/2026

Many parents think losing baby teeth early is not a big deal… but it actually can change how permanent teeth grow.

Baby teeth are not just “temporary.”
They quietly hold space for the adult teeth developing underneath.

When a baby tooth is lost too soon — because of decay or injury — that space doesn’t stay empty for long.

The nearby teeth slowly start shifting into it.
And when that happens, the permanent tooth below loses its path.

It may:
• Come out in the wrong position
• Get stuck inside the gums (impacted)
• Or cause crowding and crooked teeth

This is one of the most common reasons children later need braces.

The important part?
This can often be prevented.

Dentists can place a small appliance called a space maintainer to keep that gap open until the permanent tooth is ready.

And if you ever notice permanent teeth coming behind baby teeth (often called “shark teeth”), it’s a sign to get it checked early.

Simple takeaway:
Baby teeth guide the future smile.
Losing them too early can disturb that entire process.

▪️Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional dental advice.

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20/04/2026

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17/04/2026

Braces can fix your teeth alignment—but without proper care, they can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Orthodontic brackets create plaque traps around every tooth. If cleaning isn’t precise, bacteria build up along the gumline and around brackets, leading to early white spot lesions (demineralization), cavities, and inflamed, bleeding gums. What may look like “just stains” during treatment can become permanent enamel damage once the braces are removed.

That’s why oral hygiene during braces matters more than ever. Cleaning around brackets, between teeth, and along the gums isn’t optional—it’s what protects your enamel while your teeth are moving. Straight teeth are important, but keeping them healthy is what truly defines a successful result.

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13/04/2026

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Pretoria
0048

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