When wisdom teeth cause problems, a common question is: “Should I take out all four at once?” In most cases, gradual removal, one wisdom tooth per visit, is safer and more comfortable. In this blog, we’ll explain why.

Easier and faster healing

When only one wisdom tooth is removed, the body focuses on healing a single wound. This means less swelling, less discomfort, and faster gum regeneration. Removing multiple wisdom teeth in one session leaves several wounds at the same time, which slows down healing.

Reduced Risk of Complications

Every surgical procedure carries risks (bleeding, infection, dry socket). With one extraction per visit, the dentist can more easily monitor symptoms and respond promptly. When several teeth are extracted at once, both the risks and the intensity of symptoms increase.

Better pain control

After a single extraction, pain is localized and usually manageable with standard painkillers. If 2–4 wisdom teeth are removed at once, the pain affects multiple areas, can interfere with sleep, eating, and drinking, and may require a more complex medication regimen.

Improved oral hygiene

A clean wound heals faster. With just one wound, it’s easier to maintain oral hygiene (gentle brushing of the other areas, careful rinsing with recommended solutions) compared to having wounds on both sides of the mouth.

Psychological comfort

Fear of the dentist is common. A gradual approach reduces stress, increases cooperation and compliance with recommendations, which directly improves the outcome.

When is multiple extraction done?

Removing several teeth in one session is done rarely, under certain conditions:

As part of an orthodontic plan with clear indications.

●When the procedure is planned under general anesthesia.

●When all wisdom teeth are causing acute or recurring problems.

●The decision is individual and made after a clinical examination and panoramic X-ray.

Prepare for a safe examination

For a personalized plan and safe wisdom tooth extraction, or extraction of any other tooth, book your appointment today at PZU Dr. Donevski, and we will assess which strategy is most suitable for you.

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Let’s be honest- very few people enjoy going to the dentist. Dental anxiety is very common, and as your dentist, I want to clarify: it’s completely normal, and more importantly- we can overcome it together. Whether the fear comes from a bad past experience, fear of pain, or something else, here are a few simple tips to help you feel more relaxed before and during your next visit.

1. Talk to your dentist (really!)

The first and most important step is open communication. Tell us that you’re feeling anxious- it won’t offend us. In fact, it helps us adjust our approach. We can explain everything step by step, work more gently, and give you breaks when needed.

2. Schedule your appointment carefully

If mornings are less stressful for you, book an early appointment. That way, you won’t spend the whole day thinking about it and building up anxiety. Choose a time when you’re not in a rush and won’t be overwhelmed.

3. Bring something to distract yourself

Music can help a lot. Bring headphones and listen to your favorite playlist or calming sounds. Some patients even bring stress balls to squeeze while sitting in the chair.

4. Try relaxation techniques

Deep breathing, meditation, or visualization can help you calm down. Practice breathing: inhale deeply through your nose counting to four, hold it for a few seconds, then slowly exhale through your mouth.

5. Start with something simple

If it’s been a long time since your last dental visit, start with something easy, like an exam or a cleaning and polishing. Slowly ease back into regular care- we’ll be with you every step of the way.

6. Focus on the benefits

Try shifting your perspective. Think of your visit as an investment in your health, confidence, and comfort. A healthy smile isn’t just about looks—it’s essential for your overall well-being.

We’re here to help, not to judge

No matter how long it’s been since your last visit or what shape your teeth are in, we’re here to support you. Our goal is for you to feel safe, understood, and encouraged to take care of your oral health. If you’re feeling anxious about your next appointment, feel free to give us a call. We’ll create a plan that suits you and helps you feel at ease.

You can do this, and we’re here to help you.

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Losing a baby tooth is a big moment in every child’s life. But did you know that the way this event is celebrated differs all over the world? While the Tooth Fairy is popular in the West, many cultures have their own unique customs- involving mice, birds, the sun, and even chickens. Let’s travel across the globe and explore these charming traditions, including our beloved customs from Macedonia and the Balkans.

?? Macedonia: Throwing the tooth on the roof

In Macedonia, when a child loses a tooth, they traditionally throw it onto the roof while reciting a rhyme. They often ask a bird (a crow or sparrow) to bring them a new, stronger tooth. This symbolic act is rooted in folklore and hope for healthy teeth.

?? ?? ?? ?? ?? ?? ??

The Balkans: A shared custom

Similar traditions are found in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Albania. Greece, Bulgaria. Children toss their teeth onto the roof and ask for a prettier or stronger new one. In Albania, children say: “Mouse, mouse, take this tooth and bring me a new one!”- calling on a magical mouse to take over the Tooth Fairy’s role.

?? ?? USA & United Kingdom: The classic tooth fairy

In many English-speaking countries, children place the lost tooth under their pillow at night. While they sleep, the Tooth Fairy comes, takes the tooth, and leaves a small gift or money. This tradition became widespread in the 20th century and is still loved today.

?? ?? ?? ?? Spain & Latin America: El Ratón Pérez

In Spain and much of Latin America, a little mouse named El Ratón Pérez collects children’s teeth. He quietly enters the room, takes the tooth, and leaves a coin or gift. There’s even a museum dedicated to him in Madrid!

?? France: La Petite Souris (The little mouse)

French children also have a tooth-collecting mouse, known as La Petite Souris. She quietly comes during the night and replaces the tooth with a small present.

?? ?? Japan and China: Throwing teeth up or down

In Japan, lower teeth are thrown onto the roof and upper teeth are thrown under the house. This is believed to help the new tooth grow in straight, in the opposite direction of the old one.

?? South Korea: A wish to the lucky magpie

Korean children throw their baby teeth onto the roof and ask a magpie (which is considered a bringer of good luck) to bring them a strong new tooth.

?? Vietnam: Rhymes and wishes

In Vietnam, children recite a rhyme while throwing their teeth. Upper teeth go under the house, lower teeth go on the roof — a symbolic wish for strong, well-aligned new teeth.

?? Turkey: Burying the tooth for the future

In Turkey, the tooth is often buried in a meaningful place. Parents may bury it near a school, hospital, or mosque- depending on the future they wish for their child.

?? Egypt: A gift to the sun

Egyptian children throw their teeth toward the sun and ask for a new, stronger one. This ancient tradition is rooted in honoring the sun as a source of life.

?? Nigeria: Chickens and teeth

In parts of Nigeria, children bury their teeth near chicken coops. It’s believed that chickens will help the new tooth grow strong- a beautiful blend of culture and environment.

?? Italy: Mice and magic

Italian children may believe in either the Tooth Fairy or Topolino– a magical mouse who takes the tooth from under the pillow and leaves a surprise.

Conclusion

Whether it’s tossed on a roof, buried by chickens, or swapped for a gift by a fairy or mouse- every culture has its own beautiful way of turning a small moment into big magic. These customs don’t just celebrate growing up; they create lasting childhood memories.

At PZU Dr. Donevski, we love your tooth stories! No matter the tradition, we’re here to make sure those new teeth grow healthy and strong.

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Understanding the Effects of Aging on Oral Health

As we age, our bodies experience a range of physiological changes that can affect our oral health. These changes may include:

1. Tooth Wear

Over time, teeth can wear down from years of use, potentially leading to issues such as sensitivity and an increased risk of decay.

2. Gum Recession

As we age, our gums may recede, exposing the roots of the teeth and making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.

3. Dry Mouth:

Many older adults experience dry mouth, which can result from certain medications or medical conditions. Reduced saliva flow can contribute to an increased risk of cavities and oral discomfort.

4. Increased Risk of Oral Diseases:

Older adults may be more susceptible to conditions such as gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health issues, making regular dental check-ups even more critical.

Tips for Maintaining Oral Health in Older Age

Despite the natural changes that occur as we age, there are several proactive steps that older adults can take to preserve their oral health and enjoy a bright, healthy smile for years to come:

1. Regular Dental Check-ups: Scheduling regular dental appointments is essential for monitoring oral health and addressing any emerging issues promptly.

2. Daily Oral Care: Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day and flossing, is crucial for preventing decay and gum disease.

3. Addressing Dry Mouth: If dry mouth is a concern, speak with your dentist about potential solutions, such as mouth rinses or other products designed to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.

4. Nutritious Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, particularly calcium and vitamin D, can help support strong teeth and gums.

5. Avoiding Tobacco and Excessive Alcohol: Both tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption can significantly impact oral health, so it’s important to minimize or eliminate these habits.

Conclusion

As we navigate the journey of aging, prioritizing our oral health becomes increasingly important. By understanding the effects of aging on oral health and implementing proactive oral care practices, older adults can continue to enjoy a healthy, radiant smile well into their golden years. Remember, your dentist is your partner in maintaining oral health, so don’t hesitate to seek their guidance and expertise as you age gracefully. We hope this blog post has provided valuable insights into the importance of maintaining oral health as we age. If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to support you every step of the way on your journey to optimal oral health.

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What is a Gingivectomy? A gingivectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of gum tissue (gingiva) to treat gum disease or improve the appearance of the gums. It is often performed by a doctor specialised in oral surgery.

Why is a Gingivectomy Performed? There are several reasons why a gingivectomy may be recommended, including:

1. Gum Disease Treatment: Gingivectomy is often used to treat advanced cases of gum disease, such as periodontitis. By removing diseased gum tissue, the procedure can help eliminate pockets where bacteria can thrive, promoting gum healing and reducing the risk of further infection.

2. Cosmetic Purposes: Some individuals may have an excessive amount of gum tissue, leading to a “gummy smile” or the appearance of short teeth. A gingivectomy can be performed to reshape the gums and create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.

3. Crown Lengthening: In preparation for a dental crown or bridge, a gingivectomy may be performed to expose more of the tooth’s structure, allowing for proper placement of the restoration.

The Gingivectomy Procedure: Before the procedure, the dentist will thoroughly examine the patient’s oral health and discuss the goals and expected outcomes of the gingivectomy. Local anesthesia is typically administered to ensure the patient’s comfort during the procedure. During the gingivectomy, the dentist uses a scalpel or laser to carefully remove the targeted gum tissue. Once the excess tissue is removed, the area is thoroughly cleaned, and the gums are reshaped to achieve the desired contour. The dentist may place sutures to facilitate proper healing.

Recovery and Aftercare: Following a gingivectomy, patients can expect some degree of discomfort and swelling. However, these symptoms are typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and proper oral care. The dentist will provide specific post-operative instructions, which may include guidelines for oral hygiene, dietary recommendations, and information about follow-up appointments.

Benefits of Gingivectomy

1. Improved Oral Health: By removing diseased gum tissue and eliminating pockets where bacteria can accumulate, a gingivectomy can contribute to the treatment and prevention of gum disease.

2. Enhanced Smile Aesthetics: For individuals who are self-conscious about their gummy smile, a gingivectomy can lead to a more balanced and attractive smile, boosting self-confidence and overall satisfaction with their appearance.

3. Preparation for Dental Restorations: When performed for crown lengthening purposes, a gingivectomy can facilitate the proper placement of dental crowns or bridges, contributing to the longevity and stability of the restorations.

In conclusion, a gingivectomy can be a valuable procedure for addressing gum disease, enhancing smile aesthetics, and preparing for dental restorations. If you’re considering a gingivectomy, be sure to consult with a qualified dental professional to determine if it’s the right option for you. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene practices and attending regular dental check-ups are essential for long-term oral health and well-being.

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Not necessarily. Merely brushing your teeth doesn’t guarantee you rid your mouth of bacteria and plaque build-up.
In this post we look at some of the mistakes you might be making while brushing your teeth. Do any apply to you?

1. Not brushing long enough

This is a classic offense – we recommend you brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day. That’s 2 minutes before you go to bed and atleast one other time during the day. According to the American Academy of General Dentistry, the average person brushes their teeth 45 to 70 seconds per day and that’s 23 to 35 seconds if they brush twice a day (which is less than half the recommended time!)

It could well be that you struggle to tell how long you’re brushing when you do, if you’re using a normal toothbrush then you can use the timer on your phone, a clock or a small hourglass. Most electric toothbrushes “buzz” at 30 second intervals, that way you can divide your mouth into 4 areas, top to bottom, left to right, and spend 30 seconds on each section.

2. Brushing too hard

Using the wrong technique when brushing, paired with a heavy hand, can cause wear on your teeth and potentially lead to receding gums. Brushing harder will not leave your teeth cleaner. A lot of electric toothbrushes have a sensor that will flicker a light if you are brushing too hard.

You want to brush at a slight angle, rather than square to the teeth, and focus on each tooth (tooth by tooth) instead of a side to side scrubbing motion.

3. Using the wrong toothbrush

Manual versus electric? The debate rages on… One thing we have noticed is that it’s very tricky to clean wisdom teeth with a manual toothbrush so often people will skip the back of their mouth because of this, however an electric toothbrush can clean wisdom teeth much better without requiring you to move your actual brush too much.

An electric toothbrush can also tell you if you’re applying too much pressure on your teeth and gums and give you a little alert so that you know you’ve brushed your teeth long enough.

Whether electric or manual, take care on choosing your bristles. These should be soft or medium instead of hard – you want to clean your teeth gently, without damaging your teeth and gums. The same goes for the size of the brush, a larger brush head is not necessary as you want to cover the surface of one tooth at a time (to make sure you clean each tooth effectively), not all of your teeth at once!

4. Using an old toothbrush or toothbrush head

Your toothbrush won’t be as effective as it should be if the bristles are worn. Change your toothbrush or toothbrush head for manual toothbrushes every 3 to 4 months.

It’s also important to change your toothbrush if you have been ill, bacteria grow on your toothbrush and a fresh brush can prevent you from infecting yourself again.

5. Flossing and brushing only the front of your teeth

Some people floss and brush only the teeth they can reach instead of inbetween all of their teeth. It is not just about removing food, but removing the fine plaque and biofilm between teeth and gums, this is the damaging stuff which leads to cavities and gum disease.

6. Not using interdental brushes

We recommend using an interdental brush along with floss. While floss can reach between the gums, if used properly, you still need an interdental brush to clean the sides of your teeth, which is a spot that your toothbrush and floss may be missing.

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Myth No 5. “Diet sodas are okay to drink because they don’t have sugar in them.”

Truth: Though diet sodas don’t have cavity-causing sugars in them, they still are highly acidic. Our mouth has acid-loving bacteria that contribute to cavities. Diet sodas have a pH level of about 2-3, while water is neutral at a pH level of 7. The acid in diet soda eats away the enamel (the outer protective layer of our tooth surface) causing tooth sensitivity. Some people tend to slowly sip their sodas throughout the day, which is actually more hazardous. Every time you take a sip, the bacteria in your mouth begins to work with the acid and attack your enamel. It takes about 20 minutes for your mouth to neutralize that acid again and each time you sip that 20-minute attack starts over.

Besides soda, other acidic beverages like orange juices, citrus juices, etc. can also cause similar damage. The healthiest alternatives to keep your body hydrated are water, vegetable juice, and milk.

Myth no 6. “Oral health is not connected to the rest of the body.”

Truth: Your oral health is connected to your systemic (overall) health and there are many correlations between your mouth and body. A mouth with severe tooth decay and periodontal disease is more likely to cause bacteria to enter into the bloodstream and result in other health issues. Studies have found a link between periodontal disease and heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and more. Learn more in our blog post about oral health and heart health.

Myth no 7. “My teeth are unhealthy because I’m aging.”

Truth: Aging is not an automatic factor in deteriorating oral health. Those who take care of their teeth during their childhood and adult years will still have healthy teeth in their senior years. Similarly, just because you are young doesn’t mean your teeth will be healthy. We have seen plenty of cases in our dental office where patients in their 20s and 30s have such severe dental decay that they have to rely on dentures and bridges. In general, oral hygiene is important no matter your age, so be sure to brush and floss throughout your entire life to keep your mouth healthy.

Conclusion: Be Proactive About Your Dental Care

We encourage you to be proactive in keeping your teeth healthy. Putting off regular dental check-ups will likely lead to problems. A little time invested each day can save you countless hours of trouble – not to mention money – in the future.

If you’re experiencing problems or have questions about your oral health, request an appointment and we will help you to keep your oral health in optimal shape!
 

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This Coronavirus is highly contagious and spreads by droplets from mouth, nose and eyes and surface contact.

A virus from the infected person can be released out by coughing, sneezing, his contaminated hands and clothes. So especially in a dental setup, a single patient of COVID 19, either an active phase, or a carrier state, or just a healthy individual with Corona contaminated hands is a pottential hazard to all those who visit the dental clinic.

One more thing you need to know is the equipment used in a dental clinique like aerators, air syringe, water syringe, scalers and physio dispensers, generates lots and lots of aerosolts, like small droplets of water in huge number coming out of patients mouth, and forming a cloud in the surrounding space.

Imagine the number of microbes, including COVID 19 in that cloud. And it is dangerous. So most of the dentists all over the world has stopped the procedures including any of these equipments and instruments for the purpose of prevention of infection and safety. So the dental treatment procedures are classified as ELECTIVE PROCEDURED, which are not done at this point of time (COVID 19 outbreak) and can be postponed till the situation comes under control, and at the same time, minor discomfort can be managed with teleconsultation and non invasive care. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES which have to be taken care of and will be performed with all due precocious, for example

So, if you have any of the complains which are classified under the emergency category, your dentist is always ready to take care of you with all the safety measures. And if your complain is a minor one, then a strict NO.  So, stay back home, stay safe, keep smiling. Thank you.

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If you’re missing a tooth, you’ve got several options. The least advisable is to do nothing! It’s not just about aesthetics…Replacing a lost tooth is important to restoring maximum function, maintaining the alignment of surrounding teeth, and preserving facial contours.

Your pearly white teeth don’t just look pretty, they are important place holders for each other. Over time, those adjacent to a toothless gap can drift to fill the space and move out of alignment.  Additionally, tooth roots below the gums provide stimulation that the underlying jawbone needs to maintain its form and density.

In this blog we will tell you the approaches to replacing a lost tooth. The most appropriate for you will depend on a variety of factors that you should discuss with your dentist.

Dental Implant

Today’s gold standard for tooth replacement is the dental implant. This is actually a tooth root replacement to which a separately crown is attached. For successful implantation, there must be a sufficient amount of healthy jawbone to anchor the implant and the adjacent gums and teeth must be healthy. Certain systemic health conditions (Heart problems and diabetes are contraindicated) may preclude implantation as well.

Fixed Partial Denture

Prior to implants, the three-unit fixed partial denture (FPD), or fixed bridge, was the standard approach for tooth replacement. In this scenario, the two teeth on either side of the gap (the “abutment” teeth) are crowned and the crowns support a “pontic” — a false tooth — between

Removable Partial Denture (RPD)

An RPD is made of an artificial tooth anchored in plastic that mimics gum tissue. It is attached to metal clasps that hook onto adjacent natural teeth. It can be removed for cleaning.

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When was the last time you replaced your toothbrush? Our dental hygiene, unfortunately, doesn’t get as much attention or thought as other areas of our life. However, there are important rules and tips you should follow for maintaining optimal dental health.

What to consider when shopping for dental products?

Ask your dentist during your next dental checkup and cleaning for recommendations about what you should be buying based off your individual needs, your particular dental health state, etc.

We suggest you to look for toothbrushes with soft bristles,  as hard bristles damage your teeth and gums, choose a toothbrush head size that touches one or two teeth at a time, use a toothpaste containing fluoride, consider using mouthwash to further fight plaque and gingivitis, and don’t forget to floss!

Should I use electric toothbrush?

The use of an electric toothbrush may vary from patient to patient. The patients with peridontal disease have problems with their gums, and electric toothbrush may cause a lot of bleeding from their gums, so it doesn’t help them as they would want to. But if you don’t have any problems with your gums, the use of electric toothbrush may be helpful. Do your research on what products fit your needs best, and don’t forget to ask your dentist for recommendations.

When to change your toothbrush?

Most dentists, and the American Dental Association (ADA), recommend changing your toothbrush every 3 months. Overtime, toothbrushes go through normal wear and tear and become less effective with removing plaque from teeth and gums. Studies have found that around 3 months is when the bristles break down and lose effectiveness.

One other consideration we don’t like to think about is that germs can hide and build up in toothbrush bristles. This makes it important to replace your toothbrush after you’ve been sick, or risk possible infection.

Bacteria can also develop in the bristles if not taken care of properly. After use, make sure you rinse off and dry your toothbrush thoroughly, storing uncovered in an upright position and keeping it away from other members of your family toothbrushes. When traveling, be sure to cover your toothbrush to protect it and reduce the spread of germs.

If you can’t remember exactly how long it’s been, pay attention to the condition your toothbrush head is in – whether the bristles are worn out, fan out, or frayed, or especially if you see dark color changes, which is a sign of mold.

What happens If I don’t change my toothbrush often enough?

If knowing that bacteria accumulates on your toothbrush bristles overtime isn’t enough reason to replace your toothbrush more often, there are also a number of other risks and issues involved with not replacing your toothbrush. One risk includes damaging your gums, as old toothbrushes become ineffective with removing plaque from your teeth, which leads to gingivitis. Even more unappealing, you can get sick from overused toothbrushes your toothbrush can grow mold.

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