In this instalment, Eon Engelbrecht asks Dr Clifford Yudelman why adult teeth tend to drift over time, what everyday factors contribute to this phenomenon, and how listeners can prevent unwanted movement.

(01:13 – 01:21) So Dr Yudelman, what exactly do we mean when we say that my teeth are shifting or going skew and why should our listeners care about it?

Teeth shifting refers to the gradual movement of one or more teeth from their original aligned position, which can be likened to books leaning on a shelf as the structure settles. Although it may appear purely cosmetic at first, early drifting can indicate changes in bite function or gum health that, if ignored, often lead to more extensive and costly treatments later.

(02:28 – 02:35) And doctor, is it genuinely normal for teeth to move as we get older and what’s happening in the mouth to cause this change?

Yes, some degree of drift is normal: adult bone continually remodels through resorption and deposition, and the periodontal ligament responds to micro-strains from chewing forces and lip-tongue pressures. After about age 30, bone formation can lag behind, and gingival tissues may recede, reducing support and allowing teeth to tip or rotate in response to these natural forces.

(04:16 – 04:29) That’s very interesting and how big a role do parafunctional habits like grinding or clenching play in the tooth movements? Can they really make everything drift?

Parafunctional forces such as bruxism or clenching can generate hundreds of pounds of pressure, stressing the periodontal ligament and causing repeated inflammatory remodelling that pushes teeth out of alignment. Uneven enamel wear or fractured cusps from grinding also creates imbalanced bite contacts, which further accelerates tipping, rotation and bone loss in specific areas.

(05:44 – 05:58) And when we look beyond parafunctional habits, doctor, are there any other everyday factors or anatomical issues like wisdom teeth or orthodontic history that contribute to tooth shifting as well?

Apart from grinding, inadequate retention following past orthodontic treatment is a major contributor: if retainers are not worn, teeth tend to relapse to their original positions. Wisdom-tooth pressure is often overstated—impacted or über-buried wisdom teeth rarely push other teeth—but minor trauma, tooth loss, new crowns with high bites and new oral habits (for example, chewing on pens or nail-biting) can each trigger unwanted movement.

(10:26 – 10:42) Dr Yudelman, now let’s say someone notices their front teeth overlapping a bit or the bite line is shifting a bit. What are the real world consequences of leaving drifting untreated? Will they just drift out of your mouth or what’s going to happen?

Drifting front teeth won’t fall out of your mouth, but they can create psychological and functional issues: even mild overlapping affects your smile confidence, leads to uneven enamel wear, chipping, and may strain the TMJ. Untreated drifting also makes oral hygiene more challenging, increases the risk of gum disease and can significantly extend—and raise the cost of—future orthodontic intervention.

(13:06 – 13:18) Retainers, let’s talk about retainers. How do they work and at what point should someone consider them? Are we talking about full-time wear forever or are there more flexible options, Dr Yudelman?

Retainers keep teeth in place by stabilising the periodontal ligament after orthodontic treatment: nowadays, fixed bonded wires behind the lower front teeth or clear vacuum-formed (Vivera) retainers are common. Initially you wear them full time to allow bone and ligament to adapt, then transition to overnight wear plus a couple of hours in the morning and evening, before settling on nightly use indefinitely for life.

(15:23 – 15:36) And what about Invisalign? How can clear aligners fix these minor shifts without full orthodontics? And are there age or bone density limitations?

Each Invisalign tray is designed to move teeth by about 0.25 mm per stage, so a series of known forces gradually returns shifted teeth to their ideal positions. It is best suited to adults with mild to moderate relapse—single-tooth rotations, slight crowding or small midline deviations—and, while low bone density (osteopenia or osteoporosis) may require slower movement, most adults can be treated safely as long as they wear aligners for 20–22 hours a day.

(18:36 – 18:45) Are there non-orthodontic preventative measures beyond retainers that our listeners can adopt if they’re worried about future drifting?

Yes: a custom-fitted night guard protects against bruxism-related microtrauma, preventing grinding forces from shifting teeth. Optimal oral hygiene—daily flossing or interdental brushing, six-monthly professional cleanings—maintains firm, healthy gums that anchor teeth more securely, while avoiding harmful habits (chewing ice, nail-biting or using teeth as tools) helps reduce unwanted movement.

(20:52 – 21:01) Okay, and doctor, are there situations where shifting teeth hinted something a bit more serious going on in your mouth?

Occasionally, unexplained drifting or associated pain may indicate underlying pathology—such as abscesses, cysts or jaw-bone lesions—that warrant further investigation with panoramic or CBCT imaging. If drifting comes with pain, swelling or unusual bone-loss patterns, it may signal infections or more sinister lesions like tumours, especially in younger individuals.

(23:17 – 23:30) And then finally, Dr Yudelman, if a listener wants to be proactive right now, what are three simple steps they can take this week to protect their smile from unwanted shifting?

First, schedule a retainer check—even if your teeth feel stable—to ensure existing retainers or bonded wires still fit correctly and replace any worn-out retainer immediately. Second, identify and minimise parafunctional habits (bruxism, clenching, nail-biting) and consider a custom night guard if needed. Third, upgrade oral hygiene by adding interdental brushes and flossing tight areas to reduce gum inflammation, since healthy bone and gum tissues resist unwanted movement better.

Further listening:

• Parafunctional habits: Nail Biting – https://optismile.co.za/blog/parafunctional-habits-nail-biting/ optismile.co.za

• Parafunctional habits: Cheek & Lip Biting – https://optismile.co.za/blog/cheek-lip-biting-dental-risks/ optismile.co.za

• Grinding Through It – Understanding Bruxism and TMJ Disorders (Episode 41) – https://optismile.co.za/blog/understanding-bruxism-tmj/ optismile.co.zaoptismile.co.za

• Relief and Recovery: Managing Bruxism and TMJ Disorder (Episode 42) – https://optismile.co.za/blog/relief-and-recovery-managing-bruxism-and-tmj-disorder/ optismile.co.za

• Invisalign vs Traditional Braces – https://optismile.co.za/blog/invisalign-vs-traditional-braces/ optismile.co.za

• Gum Disease – Early Signs, Professional Care, and Recovery – https://optismile.co.za/blog/gum-disease-early-signs-professional-care-and-recovery/ optismile.co.za

Contact the Best dentist in Cape Town

Book your next Dental Checkup with OptiSmile

Follow OptiSmile on Facebook

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast, "Save Your Money Save Your Teeth" on Medical Mondays, is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as dental or medical advice. The insights and opinions expressed by Dr. Clifford Yudelman and any guests are designed to foster a better understanding of dental health, preventive measures, and general well-being, but should not be interpreted as professional dental or medical recommendations. Dr. Clifford Yudelman does not diagnose, treat, or offer prevention strategies for any health conditions directly through this podcast. This platform is not a substitute for the personalized care and advice provided by a licensed dental or healthcare professional. We strongly encourage our listeners to consult with their own dental care providers to address individual dental health needs and concerns. The information shared here aims to empower listeners with knowledge about dental health but must not be used as a basis for making health-related decisions without professional guidance. Your dental care provider is the best source of advice about your dental and overall health. Please always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified health professionals regarding any questions or concerns about your dental health.

Financial Advisor Mauritz Oberholzer shares five timeless lessons every investor can learn from one of the greatest investors of all time - Warren Buffett.

Your Money Maument is aired on eRadio SA every Thursday and available as a podcast afterwards.

For more information visit https://www.mauritzoberholzer.co.za/

What is the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud (CGSO) and how do they help consumers? We ask Isabella Mazzone of Hahn & Hahn Attorneys.

Legal Talk is aired every Wednesday morning at 10:00 on eRadio and available as a podcast thereafter.

Introduction

In Episode 63 of Save Your Money, Save Your Teeth, Dr Clifford Yudelman discusses the common concern of jaw clicking—what causes it, when it’s harmless and when it requires attention, and how to manage it effectively without incurring unnecessary treatment costs.

**00:01:47 – ** What exactly is jaw clicking, and why does it happen?

Jaw clicking is an audible “pop” or “click” that arises from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is a ball-and-socket joint connecting the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bone of the skull. Within this joint sits a small articular disc of cartilage that should glide smoothly during opening and closing. When that disc momentarily displaces and then repositions itself—often riding slightly forward on opening and snapping back on closing—it produces the characteristic clicking or popping sound.

Further Reading:

• What is TMJ and How is it Treated? (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/what-is-tmj-and-how-is-it-treated/ (optismile.co.za)

**00:02:33 – ** Is jaw clicking always a sign of a serious problem, or can it be harmless?

Occasional, painless clicking—especially in younger individuals—is often benign. In such cases, the disc displacement is intermittent, there is no pain, the range of motion is normal, and there is no locking; therefore, it rarely requires invasive intervention. However, if clicking is accompanied by persistent discomfort, restricted mouth opening, altered jaw movement (e.g. asymmetrical opening), or locking episodes, it may signal temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), which warrants professional evaluation.

Further Reading:

• Understanding Bruxism & TMJ Disorders (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/understanding-bruxism-tmj/ (optismile.co.za)

• What is TMJ and How is it Treated? (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/what-is-tmj-and-how-is-it-treated/ (optismile.co.za)

**00:03:42 – ** What anatomical structures are involved in jaw clicking?

The principal components are:

1. Mandibular condyle (the “ball” of the lower jaw).
2. 
   
3. Glenoid fossa (the “socket” on the temporal bone).
4. Articular disc (a small, fibrocartilaginous cushion between ball and socket).
5. 
   
6. Ligaments (stabilising fibres around the joint).
7. 
   
8. Lateral pterygoid muscle (attaches to the front of the disc and can pull it forward).
9. Posterior attachments (back-of-disc tissues that help retain the disc).
10. When ligaments or muscular tensions change (for instance, due to hypermobility, stress or injury), the disc can slip ahead of the condyle and then click back into place during mouth movements.

Further Reading:

• What is TMJ and How is it Treated? (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/what-is-tmj-and-how-is-it-treated/ (optismile.co.za)

**00:04:57 – ** When should listeners be concerned about jaw clicking and seek professional advice?

Seek professional advice if you experience any of the following for more than a few weeks:

• Persistent pain localised around the ear, temple or TMJ.
• 
  
• Jaw locking (inability to open or close fully).
• 
  
• Reduced range of motion (e.g. inability to open wider than 35–40 mm).
• 
  
• Crepitus (a grating or grinding sensation in the joint).
• 
  
• Noticeable changes in your bite (teeth no longer align as they once did).
• Such signs may indicate early degenerative changes, inflammation or disc displacement that cannot self-resolve.

Further Reading:

• What is TMJ and How is it Treated? (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/what-is-tmj-and-how-is-it-treated/ (optismile.co.za)

**00:06:44 – ** How can you distinguish between TMJ-related clicking and benign joint noises?

• Benign clicking:
• • Intermittent and painless.
• • No limitation in opening/closing.
• • May occur only on large mouth openings (e.g. yawning or a big bite).
• • Full, unrestricted jaw movement—normally above 40 mm interincisal opening.
• Pathological clicking/TMD:
• • Accompanied by pain on chewing or jaw movement.
• • Morning stiffness, headaches or earaches.
• • Restricted opening (< 35 mm interincisal).
• • History of trauma (e.g. blow to the jaw).
• • Popping or grinding that disturbs daily activities.
• If you can click repeatedly without discomfort and maintain normal jaw range, it’s likely benign. Otherwise, TMD evaluation is recommended.

Further Reading:

• What is TMJ and How is it Treated? (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/what-is-tmj-and-how-is-it-treated/ (optismile.co.za)

• Understanding Bruxism & TMJ Disorders (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/understanding-bruxism-tmj/ (optismile.co.za)

**00:08:07 – ** What common factors or habits contribute to jaw clicking?

• Parafunctional habits (unconscious behaviours that overload the TMJ):
• • Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching)
• • Ice chewing
• • Lip or cheek biting
• • Nail biting
• Stress-induced muscle tension:
• The lateral pterygoid muscle may pull the disc forward under stress.
• Poor posture:
• Jutting the chin forward when using a phone or laptop increases TMJ strain.
• Physiotherapists such as Trish Lang (Bree Street, Cape Town) specialise in correcting neck and jaw posture.
• Trauma:
• Whiplash or direct blows to the jaw can stretch or tear ligaments, displacing the disc.
• Arthritis:
• Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can erode joint surfaces, leading to uneven disc movement and clicking.

Further Reading:

• Understanding Bruxism & TMJ Disorders (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/understanding-bruxism-tmj/ (optismile.co.za)

• How to Deal with Teeth Grinding (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/deal-teeth-grinding/ (optismile.co.za)

**00:11:00 – ** Do you have any simple self-assessment or home-care measures to alleviate the clicking?

1. Gentle heat or cold therapy:
2. • Apply a warm compress (10–15 minutes) over the TMJ to relax tightened muscles.
3. • Use a cold pack wrapped in a cloth (never directly on skin) to reduce local inflammation.
4. Jaw-stretching exercises (ensure correct technique; refer to a physiotherapist):
5. • Place two index fingers between your front teeth; gently stretch open to encourage the disc to re-seat.
6. • With tongue on the roof of your mouth, open and close gently while standing with your chin tucked and head against a wall (posture and opening exercise).
7. • Numerous TMJ-specific exercises exist; proper guidance from a qualified physio is advised.
8. Soft diet:
9. • Limit hard, chewy or crunchy foods (nuts, biltong, tough meats) for 1–2 weeks to reduce joint loading.
10. Postural awareness:
11. • Keep your head centred over your shoulders; avoid leaning forward or craning your neck.
12. • Consider Pilates, gentle yoga or “chin-tuck” exercises to retrain head position.
13. Stress management:
14. • Mindful breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, gentle walks, Pilates or Pilates-based activities.
15. Avoid parafunctional triggers:
16. • Refrain from nail biting, lip/cheek biting, excessive gum chewing or wide yawning.

Further Reading:

• Understanding Bruxism & TMJ Disorders (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/understanding-bruxism-tmj/ (optismile.co.za)

• Relief and Recovery: Managing Bruxism and TMJ Disorder (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/relief-and-recovery-managing-bruxism-and-tmj-disorder/ (optismile.co.za)

**00:14:05 – ** Are there any non-invasive treatments you can recommend for early-stage jaw clicking?

• Occlusal splints/night guards (custom-made, hard acrylic and often 3D-printed):
• • Reduces stress on the joint and prevents further disc displacement.
• • Over-the-counter soft appliances can exacerbate the problem and worsen the bite—avoid these.
• • A well-fitted, dentist-fabricated splint is far more effective but is not always the first choice if symptoms are mild.
• Physiotherapy (under a suitably trained TMJ specialist such as Trish Lang):
• • TMJ-specific manual therapy and guided exercises can resolve early symptoms in just a few visits.
• Soft-tissue massage:
• • Gentle massaging of the masticatory muscles (masseter, temporalis) can help alleviate tension.
• NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs):
• • Ibuprofen or prescription medications such as Arcoxia (once-daily dosing) to reduce pain/inflammation.
• Behavioural modification:
• • Consciously avoid parafunctional habits (clenching, nail biting, chewing gum).
• • Reduce caffeine intake and manage stress with relaxation techniques.

Further Reading:

• What is TMJ and How is it Treated? (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/what-is-tmj-and-how-is-it-treated/ (optismile.co.za)

• Relief and Recovery: Managing Bruxism and TMJ Disorder (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/relief-and-recovery-managing-bruxism-and-tmj-disorder/ (optismile.co.za)

**00:18:25 – ** When is it appropriate to consider specialist interventions such as splints or surgery?

• Occlusal splints (hard acrylic, custom-fabricated) are a conservative first step—used nightly to protect joint structures and teeth from bruxism. However, beware of dental practices (notably neuromuscular dentistry protocols) that prescribe 24/7 splint wear leading to irreversible bite changes and extensive restorative work costing hundreds of thousands of rand.
• 
  
• Intra-articular injections (steroid or viscosupplementation) are performed by a TMJ specialist or oral surgeon; indicated only for persistent, moderate-to-severe TMD unresponsive to conservative care.
• 
  
• Arthrocentesis/arthroscopy:
• • Flushing the joint under local anaesthetic, sometimes including lavage or minimal arthroscopic debridement; reserved for chronic, resistant cases.
• Open-joint surgery (disc repositioning, disc removal or joint reconstruction) is only for advanced degenerative TMJ disease with significant pain, deformity or loss of function—very uncommon and highly specialised.

Further Reading:

• What is TMJ and How is it Treated? (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/what-is-tmj-and-how-is-it-treated/ (optismile.co.za)

**00:21:56 – ** What preventative strategies help maintain healthy TMJs and avoid future problems?

1. Early identification & stress management:
2. • At the first sign of jaw tension or mild clicking, begin simple relaxation: progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, warm baths or sauna.
3. • Regular light exercise (walking, Pilates, yoga) helps reduce overall stress.
4. • Consider therapy if stress or anxiety becomes unmanageable.
5. Habit interruption:
6. • Consciously avoid nail biting, gum chewing, lip/cheek biting and wide yawning.
7. • Keep a stress ball handy to redirect nervous energy.
8. Postural correction:
9. • Maintain a neutral head position (imagine a string gently pulling the crown of your head upwards).
10. • Perform chin-tuck exercises or attend Pilates/yoga classes to strengthen postural muscles.
11. Regular dental check-ups:
12. • Your dentist should assess TMJ motion, ask about any clicking or discomfort, and monitor bite dynamics.
13. • If you have risk factors (e.g. bruxism, snoring, overweight, large neck), your dentist may recommend an early bruxism splint even before TMD symptoms arise.
14. • Sleep apnoea screening is relevant—there is a well-documented link between poor sleep quality, snoring and nocturnal grinding/clenching.
15. Sleep hygiene:
16. • If a partner reports snoring, consider a home sleep study. Untreated sleep apnoea can aggravate bruxism and TMD, leading to headaches, jaw pain and daytime fatigue.
17. Book a comprehensive digital consultation at OptiSmile if any warning signs emerge. Our 90-minute assessment (CBCT, 3D scans, full set of digital x-rays, photographs and personalised treatment plan) can detect early degenerative changes and help you avoid costly, invasive procedures. We also offer a free 30-minute video consultation if you simply have questions.

Further Reading:

• Understanding Bruxism & TMJ Disorders (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/understanding-bruxism-tmj/ (optismile.co.za)

• How to Deal with Teeth Grinding (OptiSmile Blog)

https://optismile.co.za/blog/deal-teeth-grinding/ (optismile.co.za)

Contact the Best dentist in Cape Town

Book your next Dental Checkup with OptiSmile

Follow OptiSmile on Facebook

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast, "Save Your Money Save Your Teeth" on Medical Mondays, is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as dental or medical advice. The insights and opinions expressed by Dr. Clifford Yudelman and any guests are designed to foster a better understanding of dental health, preventive measures, and general well-being, but should not be interpreted as professional dental or medical recommendations. Dr. Clifford Yudelman does not diagnose, treat, or offer prevention strategies for any health conditions directly through this podcast. This platform is not a substitute for the personalized care and advice provided by a licensed dental or healthcare professional. We strongly encourage our listeners to consult with their own dental care providers to address individual dental health needs and concerns. The information shared here aims to empower listeners with knowledge about dental health but must not be used as a basis for making health-related decisions without professional guidance. Your dental care provider is the best source of advice about your dental and overall health. Please always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified health professionals regarding any questions or concerns about your dental health.

Financial Advisor Mauritz Oberholzer discusses opportunity cost in this week's Money Maument.

Your Money Maument is aired on eRadio SA every Thursday and available as a podcast afterwards.

For more information visit https://www.mauritzoberholzer.co.za/

What options does a landlord have when a tenant is defaulting on rent? We ask Thabiso Tshukudu of Hahn & Hahn Attorneys.

Legal Talk is aired every Wednesday morning at 10:00 on eRadio and available as a podcast thereafter.

Chapters:

[01:24] What exactly is gum recession?

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth’s cementoenamel junction, exposing the root (cementum). It often goes unnoticed until sensitivity arises or teeth appear longer; early detection allows for conservative management.

[02:24] How common is over-vigorous brushing?

Many adults believe harder brushing equals cleaner teeth, but excessive force can abrade gum tissue. Clinical studies link improper brushing techniques to a significant proportion of recession cases; switching to a soft brush and gentler technique is key.

[03:27] Does the hardness of the toothbrush (hard vs soft) matter?

Hard brushes can damage gums; soft brushes—even simple manual ones—clean effectively without harm. Although hard brushes may be cheaper or more durable, they’re best avoided.

[03:48] What early signs of recession should you look for at home?

Look for a slight notch at the gum line, increased sensitivity to cold, bleeding on gentle brushing, or changes in gum colour/texture (thin, translucent areas). Any of these warrant a dental check-up.

[05:44] How much pressure is too much when brushing?

A useful rule is to press with just enough force to flatten a used toothpaste tube—firm but not painful. Holding the brush like a pencil helps moderate pressure; pressure-sensing electric brushes provide real-time feedback.

[06:53] Which toothbrush types (manual vs electric) best prevent damage?

Both can be effective. A simple soft manual brush works well if used correctly. Electric brushes with soft heads and built-in sensors can guide you, but they require timely head replacements.

[08:59] Are there proper techniques or angles for brushing?

Aim the bristles at a 45° angle towards the gum line and use gentle vibrations or small circular motions. Avoid horizontal scrubbing across the gum line; let the brush head do the work.

[10:33] What non-surgical treatments can reverse mild recession?

Professional deep cleaning to remove sub-gingival plaque/tartar, desensitising or fluoride toothpastes, and specialised chlorhexidine rinses can encourage reattachment and protect exposed roots.

[11:52] When should you consider a gum graft or specialist referral?

Severe recession (≥3 mm), thin gum biotypes with little attached gingiva, or frenal pull warrant referral to a periodontist for graft procedures (e.g. connective tissue graft).

[13:42] How often should you have professional monitoring?

After an initial assessment, six-monthly check-ups suffice for most. Additional appliances (bite plates) or sleep studies may be needed if abfraction or bruxism is present.

[15:02] What are the top three daily habits to protect your gum margins?

Gently floss once nightly before bed.

Use a soft electric toothbrush on a gentle setting and change heads regularly.

Pause during brushing to visually check your gum line and ensure you’re not applying excessive force.

Contact the Best dentist in Cape Town

Book your next Dental Checkup with OptiSmile

Follow OptiSmile on Facebook

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast, "Save Your Money Save Your Teeth" on Medical Mondays, is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as dental or medical advice. The insights and opinions expressed by Dr. Clifford Yudelman and any guests are designed to foster a better understanding of dental health, preventive measures, and general well-being, but should not be interpreted as professional dental or medical recommendations. Dr. Clifford Yudelman does not diagnose, treat, or offer prevention strategies for any health conditions directly through this podcast. This platform is not a substitute for the personalized care and advice provided by a licensed dental or healthcare professional. We strongly encourage our listeners to consult with their own dental care providers to address individual dental health needs and concerns. The information shared here aims to empower listeners with knowledge about dental health but must not be used as a basis for making health-related decisions without professional guidance. Your dental care provider is the best source of advice about your dental and overall health. Please always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified health professionals regarding any questions or concerns about your dental health.

Financial Advisor Mauritz Oberholzer unpacks this week's budget speech by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, the third one to be tabled in parliament.

Your Money Maument is aired on eRadio SA every Thursday and available as a podcast afterwards.

For more information visit https://www.mauritzoberholzer.co.za/

Do claims prescribe to institute legal proceedings? We ask Boitumelo Mokone of Hahn & Hahn Attorneys.

Legal Talk is aired every Wednesday morning at 10:00 on eRadio and available as a podcast thereafter.

In this episode of Save Your Money, Save Your Teeth, Eon Engelbrecht sits down with Dr Clifford Yudelman to share practical strategies for building a fear-free foundation at the dentist for little ones. You’ll learn when to book that first check-up, how to turn home prep into play, in-clinic techniques that put kids at ease, the parent’s ideal role, reward ideas, anxiety prevention, sedation options—and Dr Yudelman’s top three take-home tips.

Chapters:

[00:01:40] Dr Yudelman, what is the ideal age for a child’s first dental visit?

• Professional bodies recommend by the first birthday or six months after the first tooth erupts.
• At OptiSmile Sea Point, an informal “pop-in” in the shopping centre builds familiarity.
• Early, playful visits set the stage for lifelong, fear-free dentistry.

[00:03:29] What can parents do at home to make a dental visit more fun and positive?

• Use imaginative names: mirror = “magic looking-glass,” spray = “Mr Bubbly.”
• Turn tooth counting into a game with a torch and the back of a pen.
• Role-play “smile visits” with dental storybooks to normalise the experience.

[00:05:12] What unique steps does OptiSmile take to put little ones at ease, and can they watch cartoons during appointments?

• OptiSmile skips cartoons in favour of interactive show-and-tell: handing them a mirror, snapping funny photos, and counting their teeth.
• Children hold and test the suction (“Mr Thirsty”) and feel the air-blower like a “hairdryer.”
• Every tool is given a friendly name—Mr Mirror, Magic Sponge—and kids help operate the chair foot control.

[00:09:47] Dr Yudelman, what words or phrases should parents avoid when talking about dentist visits at home?

• Avoid terms like “drill,” “needle,” “shot” or “pain”; instead say “smile check” or “teeth counting.”
• Steer clear of anxious reassurances (“it won’t hurt”), which can project fear.
• Focus on celebrating healthy smiles rather than treatments.

[00:11:55] What is the role of a parent or support person during these appointments?

• A calm hand on the shoulder provides comfort; avoid hovering or squeezing.
• If a child remains anxious, a brief separation often helps them co-operate.
• Debrief parents afterwards, emphasising what went well to reinforce confidence at home.

[00:13:10] How do you handle situations where a parent’s presence increases a child’s anxiety? Do you ever involve security?

• No security is needed—just a polite request for the parent to wait outside.
• Most children settle immediately and complete the visit happily.
• We then highlight positive moments before parents rejoin.

[00:14:00] What simple behavioural reward works best for kids after their appointment?

• A small toy or game from our reward box.
• Sticker charts for tracking repeat visits.
• A favourite-colour toothbrush or a sugar-free treat.

[00:15:11] How do early visits prevent anxiety in later years?

• Familiar sights, sounds and routines build trust over time.
• Involving older siblings in mock check-ups encourages little ones to join in.
• Consistent gentle exposure—rescheduling if needed—helps overcome initial refusal.

[00:19:16] What options exist if a child remains fearful? Is medication an option?

• OptiSmile doesn’t use nitrous oxide, but mild oral sedation (antihistamine) can help with mild anxiety.
• For extensive treatment, we refer to a specialist offering conscious sedation with an anaesthetist.
• Gradual desensitisation techniques often remove the need for sedation.

[00:21:46] What are your top three take-home tips for parents between visits?

• Role-play regularly with a spoon mirror and pen tooth-counting at home.
• Brush together using a two-minute timer or hourglass to make it fun.
• Read storybooks or watch short videos about dentist visits to reinforce positive expectations.

Contact the Best dentist in Cape Town

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Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast, "Save Your Money Save Your Teeth" on Medical Mondays, is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as dental or medical advice. The insights and opinions expressed by Dr. Clifford Yudelman and any guests are designed to foster a better understanding of dental health, preventive measures, and general well-being, but should not be interpreted as professional dental or medical recommendations. Dr. Clifford Yudelman does not diagnose, treat, or offer prevention strategies for any health conditions directly through this podcast. This platform is not a substitute for the personalized care and advice provided by a licensed dental or healthcare professional. We strongly encourage our listeners to consult with their own dental care providers to address individual dental health needs and concerns. The information shared here aims to empower listeners with knowledge about dental health but must not be used as a basis for making health-related decisions without professional guidance. Your dental care provider is the best source of advice about your dental and overall health. Please always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified health professionals regarding any questions or concerns about your dental health.