In recognition of International Dentist’s Day on Monday, 9 February, the Merebank and Chatsworth Tabloid sat On The Couch with Dr Omar Mahomed, a Durban-based dentist practising at Medicross Malvern, to learn more about the ever-evolving world of dentistry. From common oral health concerns to busting dental myths and easing patient fears, Dr Mahomed shares valuable insight into why oral health plays a vital role in overall wellbeing.
Merebank and Chatsworth Tabloid (MCT): Please introduce yourself and tell us where you practise. Dr Omar Mahomed: I am Dr Omar Mahomed, a general dentist practising as part of the team at Medicross Malvern. I have a special interest in oral surgery and hold a postgraduate diploma in this field. We practise all forms of dentistry here, from complex rehabilitations to general fillings and maintenance, with an ethos of providing accessible care to all.
MCT: How long have you been practising as a dentist?
Dr. Mahomed: I’ve been in practice for around six years now, starting off on the South Coast, then moving to Pietermaritzburg, and finally settling down in beautiful Durban with its lovely people for the last few years.
MCT: What inspired you to pursue dentistry as a career?
Dr. Mahomed: Ever since I was little, I wanted to pursue a career centred around helping others. I truly believe that is what we are all made to do. The intricacy of dental and oral surgery intrigued me, as it ticked all my boxes, helping those around me, working in a field that challenges both my physical and mental abilities, and still being able to balance my time with my beautiful wife and baby girl.
MCT: What qualifications are required to become a dentist in South Africa?
Dr. Mahomed: After matric, the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BChD) is a five-year course comprising both clinical and theoretical work, followed by a year of community service. There are many routes you can take thereafter if you wish to further your practice, such as specialising in a specific field, completing a master’s degree or obtaining postgraduate diplomas, like my own, which range from two to four years. Aside from the studies, I would also recommend a passion for the craft, and a strong stomach.
MCT: What do you enjoy most about being a dentist?
Dr. Mahomed: The most enjoyable part is completing a case, whether basic or complex, and seeing my patients happy afterwards. It’s amazing the difference something as seemingly insignificant as routine dental care can make in a patient’s life, from pain relief to restoring confidence in their smile.
MCT :What are the most common oral health problems you see today?
Dr. Mahomed: Surprisingly, tooth decay is not the only major problem. Periodontal disease, involving the gums and bone, is seen quite commonly and is often overlooked. If the foundations are not strong, so goes the building. I’ve seen many cases where patients have lost teeth with no decay simply because the teeth became loose due to periodontal disease. TMJ dysfunction and bruxism, such as clenching and grinding, have also increased significantly, causing discomfort, headaches and sensitivity that often go undiagnosed.
MCT: How closely is oral health linked to overall health and wellbeing?
Dr. Mahomed: Everyone has heard the saying, ‘you are what you eat’, and since the mouth is the start of that route, it plays a significant role in overall health. Gut issues, malnutrition and absorption problems can be directly linked to oral health. More serious conditions such as Ludwig’s angina, mediastinitis and osteomyelitis can also be related. Studies show a direct link between periodontal disease and cardiac health, with an increased risk of transient ischaemic attacks later on. We must also consider the social and self-esteem challenges many people face due to their teeth and smile.
MCT: What oral health habits do people often neglect?
Dr. Mahomed: Floss, floss and more floss. At least once a day. For many, brushing alone is not enough, and issues often develop between the teeth. Flossing is also extremely beneficial for gum health. If you’re starting to floss, a bit of bleeding in the first week is normal and usually settles if no other issues are present.
MCT: What warning signs should prompt someone to visit a dentist immediately?
Dr. Mahomed: Any bleeding in the mouth or pain should be taken seriously and checked as soon as possible.
MCT: How important are regular dental check-ups, even when there is no pain?
Dr. Mahomed: Prevention is always better than cure. When symptoms appear, it is often too late for basic treatment, which can lead to root canals, crowns or even extractions. Six-monthly check-ups are better for both your wellbeing and your pocket, and most medical aids cover these visits.
MCT: How does diet, especially sugar consumption, affect dental health?
Dr. Mahomed: The bacteria in your mouth metabolise sugar just like we do. Increased sugar intake leads to increased acid production and more cavities. It’s not only about how much sugar you consume, but also how often, as frequent intake allows for longer periods of acid attack.
MCT: Are electric toothbrushes better than manual ones?
Dr. Mahomed: Not necessarily. I usually recommend electric toothbrushes only when patients are struggling with manual brushing. The most important aspect is technique, ensuring all tooth surfaces are cleaned, even right at the back.
MCT: What common myths about oral health would you like to clear up?
Dr. Mahomed: That brushing harder or more often makes your teeth whiter. Staining only accounts for part of discolouration. The inner layer of the tooth, called dentine, naturally has a yellow hue, and brushing harder won’t change that. In fact, it can damage enamel and make staining worse. That’s where professional bleaching helps, as it targets the dentine layer.
MCT: How can parents encourage good oral hygiene in children?
Dr. Mahomed: Make it fun. Turn it into a game and reward good habits. It’s important not to shame children, as this can create anxiety and a mental block around visiting the dentist. There are great videos and songs online, my favourite is Ms Rachel’s tooth-brushing song, which is perfectly timed at two minutes.
MCT: What advice would you give to patients who fear visiting the dentist?
Dr. Mahomed: Take the plunge. Dentistry and the ethos around it have changed tremendously. Dentophobia is real and more common than people think. We are here to help, and you are not alone.
MCT: How has dentistry changed over the years?
Dr. Mahomed: Even in the last ten years, the advancements have been incredible, from materials and techniques to digital dentistry. However, the greatest change has been the shift towards a patient-centred approach. We now treat the patient, not just the tooth.
MCT: What are the biggest challenges facing dentists today?
Dr. Mahomed: Dentophobia remains a major challenge. Many patients only seek help during emergencies, which often requires more invasive treatment and continues the cycle of fear. Regular check-ups allow us to address issues early and save more teeth for longer.
MCT: What is the funniest or craziest experience you’ve had as a dentist?
Dr. Mahomed: My favourite has to be the ‘panicked bride’. A young woman called in on the morning of her wedding after trying Temu veneers, which turned out to be a terrible idea. We managed to fit her in, remove them and do a proper clean-up. Her smile looked great in the wedding photos, and she still laughs about it every time she comes in.
MCT: Do dentists judge people’s teeth when they first meet them?
Dr. Mahomed: Of course we do, but not in the way you think. It’s more of a reflex. We judge, but we don’t judge. Every smile has its own charm.
MCT: What message would you like to share with the public on International Dentist’s Day?
Dr. Mahomed: Take care of your teeth and they’ll take care of you. We live in an age where knowledge is easily accessible, use it. It’s never too early or too late to start focusing on your oral health.
