Dental Problems And Solutions

Are your gums bleeding? Or are you feeling bad about missing teeth? Don’t be shy or embarrassed; we’re here to help. Discover more about these common dental problems and our minimally invasive, pain-free solutions. Our experienced team of Cape Town dentists is fully equipped and ready to help, no matter the issue. 

THE REVIEWS ARE IN...
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Ahmed Z.
They are excellent in their work
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Salek B.
Had cracked tooth and sever infection while on vacation in CT. Thank goodness for these guys. Perhaps the best medical care I’ve ever received. Could not recommend more highly.
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Daven M.
I hadn’t been to a dentist in years and was properly nervous walking in. I saw Dr. Botten and genuinely don’t think I’ve ever had a better experience with any doctor (not just dentist) in Cape Town. From the start, he took time to understand me as a person, not just a patient. He’s warm, gentle, and just really good with people. From the very start, he made the effort to understand how I was feeling and actually took the time to chat through things most doctors usually skip over. I don’t think anyone’s ever gone through one of those pre-visit forms with me before. He explained every step, got excited about what he was showing me, and made the whole thing feel so much less overwhelming. I’d initially gone in because of gum pain, and we did a whole check up, I ended up feeling more cared for than in any health care practice I've been to. I went back for a cleaning and was met with the same kindness. He even did the cleaning himself just to check in on how I was doing. Honestly, such a lovely lovely experience. If you're feeling unsure or anxious, give OptiSmile a go, and if you're able to see Dr. Botten, you'll be in one of the most kind and caring hands in Cape Town. Could've given OptiSmile 6-stars.
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Garth R.
A massive thank you to Dr Clifford and his amazing team. Optismile is truly the best dental experience one could ever hope for. From beginning to end it has been an absolute pleasure and a treat to deal with Cliff and his professional team. The work done on me was over and above all expectations and I am truly grateful for the kind manner in which I was dealt with.
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Sarah D.
This is a phenomenal dentistry place . What they have done has changed my life. Staff are the best and extremely supportive and helpful.
Dr Clifford was very experienced and did the best job ever and very caring.
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Haashim M.
I’ve been coming to optismile for all my dental work, and I couldn’t be happier.

The team is professional, friendly, and genuinely cares about your comfort. The service is always top-notch, and I leave feeling well taken care of every time. Highly recommended!
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Simona S.
Always great servise. I used optismile for Invisalign treatment and now as my dentist. Very satisfied
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Emily B.
I got injection molded composite bonding and Dr. Clifford was the GOAT! I was visiting from overseas and on a tight schedule and he was more than accommodating. Something I really loved too was the fact that their practice has all the new technology for dentistry, so essentially everything you’re getting is really precise to your needs. Dr. Clifford is also a phenomenal human, world traveler, experience from all over the world, friendly and easy going, and really does care about his patients. I wish he was my regular dentist here in the US, I’d totally go to him. Thank you Dr. Clifford for showing me what the best should look like! 🙂
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Premier T.
Great Dentistry with attention to detail with genuine care for patients well being
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Barbara R.
Amazing team and perfect service. Highly recommended!
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Elvis E.
Dr Cara did an incredible job in the restoration of my dentition. I’ll recommend optismile anyday anytime.
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Andrew R.
OptiSmile, while on the pricier side, delivers an exceptional experience from start to finish. From the warm welcome at reception to the precision of their treatments, everything is handled with professionalism and care. They make use of the latest dental technology, and their staff are clearly highly trained and skilled.

We’re especially grateful that they took on my wife’s aligner treatment after she was unfortunately let down by her previous dentist in Johannesburg — a man named Tynan McArthur, who has since fled to Israel, leaving behind numerous unpaid debts and many patients in distress. OptiSmile stepped in when we needed real professionals, and we couldn’t be more thankful.

We now bring our whole family to their Cape Town practice, including our two children. Verona always goes out of her way to make us feel welcome and at ease, and Dr. Cara has been outstanding — highly professional, meticulous, and clearly passionate about her work.

Yes, it’s expensive, but with OptiSmile you’re paying for top-tier expertise, advanced technology, and a level of care that is truly world-class.
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Paul M
I cannot praise this clinic, their staff and particularly Dr Ruan Scheepers enough.
From the moment I walked through the door for an initial assessment till the time I walked out after month later after roughly 30 hours of dentistry, their professionalism, expertise, empathetic manner and flexibility was very evident.
If you need minor or major dental work done, go directly to these guys and ask for Dr Ruan Scheepers.
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Dakota R.
Very helpful and caring staff. Dr. Ruan was great at not only taking care of my teeth, but also educating me on everything going on. He actually helped me find out I had sleep apnea, which has been a game-changer for me. Would highly recommend Opti Smile
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Alex L.
This is probably the best dental clinic in the world. My partner has already had a new smile, which she is completely satisfied with. She inspired me to also have my teeth beautified by Doctor Cara. The result is absolutely brilliant. The whole team, from reception to the assistants, are extremely friendly and you feel that you are in very good hands here. The clinic has the most modern infrastructure.
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Paul B.
I am not great with dentists but Optismile is another level , extraordinarily professional, sensitive and a spectacular experience
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Cherie H.
Can’t recommend Optismile enough. Friendly kind and world class service.
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Marisa T.
The most advanced, efficient and considerate dentistry I have experienced. It is expensive, however I can understand why. Thank you Ruan and OptiSmile
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dena de R.
The very best dental practice I've been to. The whole team is super friendly, professional and proficient. Absolutely recommend!
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Herman du T.
Just love the team at Optismile! Dr Yudelman - works magic and is the nicest guy too. Can highly recommend 👍🏻
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Nicolas Alejandro Cuesta B.
I am usually anxious about going to the dentist, but I still decided to get a dental cleaning, a check-up, and a bleaching treatment. At first, I didn’t fully understand why everything was necessary for the bleaching, even though the receptionist explained it to me.

Now that I’ve had the treatment, I have to say—it was the best experience I’ve ever had. Not only is the clinic stunning, but the professionalism and the way they treat you are outstanding. The dentist was with me for the entire three-hour session; he never left me alone. First, he explained everything he was going to do, step by step. He used equipment and techniques I had never seen before, not even in Switzerland or Germany.

The check-up was not just a quick look at my teeth—it was incredibly thorough. They took pictures, X-rays, and close-up scans. They explained everything in detail, going through each tooth one by one, showing me what was good and what needed attention. Their level of professionalism is truly remarkable.

The staff is super friendly and prepared for everything. The whole experience was incredible—highly professional, beautifully executed, and absolutely worth every penny. I would do it again without hesitation. Five stars aren’t enough to describe how amazing this place is. I would recommend it to everyone—just outstanding!
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Jonathan Z.
Five-star service represents exceptional, consistently flawless customer service that anticipates needs, exceeds expectations, and leaves a lasting positive impression. It's about going above and beyond to ensure customers feel valued and satisfied.

Nothing is truer from the moment you walk through the doors and are greeted by the amazing front desk staff and made to feel so welcome. The team at OptiSmile is nothing but professional, patient and a team of incredible and warming people.

Dr Cara is so professional and guided me throughout the whole process and procedure. Dr Cara uncovered other areas where attention was needed and plans were put together that made me leave with a big smile.

Thank you OptiSmile for the experience and for being an exceptional team.
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Wendy Y.
Best dental practice I have ever been to. Most thorough dental analysis ever. Will n ver go anywhere else after the thorough check up and analysis. Highly recommend
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Nicholas B.
The most amazing dentist experience from start to finish! Everyone is so friendly and helpful and the equipment technology is super high tech. Thanks!!
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Dominique L.
10 star service at OptiSmile! Can highly recommend 😊 Dr Harris is the best and the after care service is just incredible. They really take extra care of their patients and go above and beyond to make sure all is in order, receptionists and dentists included!
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Marguerite J.
Wonderful practice with incredibly knowledgeable staff. First time ever feeling safe at the dentist's office.
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Janelle _
The best experience I’ve had a dentist so far! Dr Cara was very kind and did the most exceptional job on my crown; and Dr Ruan did an amazing job on my root canal. His gentle, warm nature really put me at
ease. The experience was pain free, very
professional and it’s clear both doctors are very knowledgeable and skilled. The cost was worth the level of expertise and exceptional service. The hours these doctors work are very long and yet they have always given 100% at every appointment.
Appreciate them both immensely!
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David O.
I've been going to Optismile for many years, and at this point would trust nobody else with my teeth! I've never been anything but extremely happy with work done, and beyond that the team obviously really cares about their customers happiness.

On the admin side booking or changes are always smooth and friendly.
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Alan van der V.
I have had a lot of significant dental work done by a variety of dentists in the United States, Mexico and at OptiSmile. OptiSmile is clearly superior in every respect. With costs as they are in the United States, it is only slightly more expensive to fly to Cape Town and it is well worth it.
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Joseph N.
I've been a patient at OptiSmile for four years, and I couldn't be happier with my experience! The staff is always friendly and welcoming, and I truly appreciate that the dentist is always on time – no long waits here! The advanced technology they use makes procedures quick and pain-free, which is a game-changer. Dr. Ruan Scheepers is top-notch – professional, thorough, and genuinely cares about his patients' comfort and well-being. I highly recommend OptiSmile to anyone looking for exceptional dental care!
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Bronwyn K.
My kids and I had a wonderful experience during a check-up and clean with Dr Kiera, Busi and Melany. Their professionalism, knowledge, warmth and friendliness put us completely at ease. I highly recommend this superb team.
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Paula B.
Absolutely excellent ! Would highly recommend
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John K.
Excellent dentist!
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Kemi M.
I don’t usually leave reviews, but I had an amazing experience with my 4-year-old son. From reception to the consultation room, the staff was absolutely wonderful.

Definitely won my 5 star rating. Dr Keira was lovely,Professional and pleasant experience.
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Shanna C.
Dr Keira is amazing! She made me feel so comfortable. The practice is also amazing, newest technologies and beautifully clean.
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Carol H.
I highly recommend OptiSmile. Dr. Yudelman is absolutely the BEST! Very detailed, caring, friendly and go extra mile to help, make the client happy, absolutely a pleasant experience.

The service received, from reception, communication to dentistry and everything in between, is fantastic. Very happy with my new smile 😁

Regards
Carolina
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Maruschka P.
I had an outstanding experience with OptiSmile! The personal service I received from Verona and Dr. Clifford was truly exceptional. From start to finish, my Invisalign journey was far better than I could have ever expected. Their knowledge and expertise ensured that I had complete confidence in the process—there was never a moment of uncertainty.

The team at OptiSmile is incredibly professional, well-informed, and genuinely cares about their patients. I’ve already recommended them to friends and family and will continue to do so. Thank you, Dr. Clifford, Verona, and the entire OptiSmile team, for making this such a smooth and positive experience!
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Danielle S.
Dr. Clifford is amazing! I came from the states to do injection molded bonding. I also had my teeth cleaned and whitened. The whole team is friendly, the office is beautiful, and the result is better than I could have imagined. Thank you so much to Dr. Clifford and team 🙌🏼 Highly highly recommend
Dental Problems 39
Bettie C.
Pure magic. That is my experience Dr Clifford Yudelman and Siwe his assistant saving a most important tooth today. Without one moment of fearing the usual anxiety a visit to a dentist meant in my young days. None of the "what-ifs" that could happen during a 2 hour long reparation of a cracked tooth with ancient silver filling from long ago. None of the fear of what could happen should I not be able to swallow and saliva could smother me in the upside down position in a dentists chair! Not once did I experience that anxiety with Siwe sucking all my fear away. And then watching the artist/computer geek, Dr Clifford creating a new ceramic tooth, as if creating a 3D sculpture in photoshop! Then sending his design via internet to a machine that carves my new ceramic tooth as I watch it happening!
Thank you Team Clifford/Siwe for what is not the regular "dentist-fear but an experience of wonder at modern technology performed by Magicians.
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anika K.
The team at optismile has changed the way I look at dentistry. I use to fear going to the dentist, they make you feel so comfortable and welcomed.
They are not just your regular “reactive” dentist, a full assessment prior to your consult ensures a proactive approach to your dental health.
All the expertise you need in one place.
I now smile with confidence thanks to them!!
Friendly professional service.
I cannot recommend them enough.
The only thing I regret is not getting to them earlier.
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Stephanie F.
I could not recommend Optismile enough! The reception staff are always so friendly & helpful, the practice environment is so clean & beautiful with amazing views, and the dental experts are, in my opinion, absolutely world class! I switched to Optismile when I wasn't happy with what was supposed to be the end result of my Invisalign treatment with another provider... Dr Smeyatsky was phenomenal, and he immediately understood why I wasn't yet satisfied & made a plan for me. The final result was exactly what I had always envisioned! Upon his advice, I also had some composite bonding done on two of my teeth after my treatment, which elevated my smile even further, while still looking natural & not giving that "overly done" look. Optismile has given me so much confidence in my smile. I'm so happy I chose this practice & every year without fail when I visit home from the UK, I go back for oral hygiene & a dental check-up to maintain the smile I now have. Every visit continues to be a delight!
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Melanie S.
Hallo zusammen ,
Ich war im Dezember in Kapstadt im Urlaub als ich dummerweise über Nacht heftige Zahnschmerzen bekam. Die Praxis in Seapoint wurde mir von Freunden empfohlen und ich habe sofort einen Termin bekommen. Das ganze Team hat sich super um mich gekümmert und Dr. Ruan ist ein super einfühlsamer Arzt der sich viel Zeit nimmt und alles genau mit mir besprochen hat.
Auch nach der Behandlung wurde sich noch des Öfteren per WhatsApp nach meinem Wohlbefinden informiert.
Ich kann die Praxis nur empfehlen !!!
Liebes OptiSmile Team : nochmal vielen vielen Dank für eure schnelle Hilfe. Macht weiter so . Ihr seid einfach super !!
Liebe Grüße aus Deutschland. Melanie
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Max W.
Best dentist's in the world, bar none. Trust me.
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Life Is Busy Enough, Let Us Handle Your Dental Problems

Dental problems can be a real pain, literally and figuratively. Not only can they cause physical discomfort, but they can also be a source of embarrassment. Luckily, OptiSmile has dental professionals who can help you get your mouth back in tip-top shape. Whether you have bad breath, broken or missing teeth, or are short on time – we can assist. 

Why You Should Use Optismile to Fix Your Dental Problems

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Friendly Staff

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Get It Right the First Time

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No Hidden Costs

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Do No Harm

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Convenient Location

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The Best Technology

Common Dental
Problems We Fix

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Gum Disease

Your mouth is full of bacteria. There are more bacteria in your mouth than there are people on Earth. Most of the bacteria are harmless, and some are even beneficial. However, certain types of bacteria can cause gum disease. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to several serious health problems. For example, research has shown that people with gum disease are more likely to suffer from heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Additionally, gum disease has been linked to an increased risk for certain types of cancer. So if you’re concerned that you have gum disease, book online. 

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Bad Breath or Halitosis

Halitosis, or bad breath, can be embarrassing and cause anxiety. It’s no wonder store shelves overflow with gum, mints, mouthwashes and other products designed to fight bad breath. But many of these products are only temporary measures because they don’t address the cause of the problem. 

 

Certain foods, health conditions and habits are among the causes of halitosis. In many cases, you can improve your dental hygiene with consistent routines in looking after your teeth and gums. If simple self-care techniques don’t solve the problem, see your dentist to be sure a more serious condition isn’t causing your bad breath. The good news is that, in most cases, halitosis is preventable and treatable. So there’s no need to suffer in silence.

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Broken Teeth

One of the most common dental problems we see is a broken tooth. A broken tooth can occur for many reasons, but it usually happens due to an accident or injury. If you have a broken tooth, it’s important to seek dental care as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the break, you may need to have the tooth reconstructed or repaired. In either case, it’s essential to consult a qualified dentist to save the tooth or get your smile back into a confident shape. 

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Limited Time

At our office, we know your time is precious. We focus on your dental health so that you can focus on your life. We use the latest technology to provide the best care possible in the shortest time. We respect your time and promise never to keep you waiting. We understand that the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the dentist’s chair, so we do everything we can to make your visit as quick and painless as possible. You can trust us to take care of your dental health so that you can focus on what’s important to you. 

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Missing Teeth

At OptiSmile, we understand how important it is to have a full set of teeth. Not only do they play an important role in how we look, but they also impact our overall health. Missing teeth can cause various problems, including gum disease, TMJ disorders and even speech impairments. That’s why we offer a wide range of dental implants and tooth replacements for your overall health. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalised care that meets your individual needs and goals. So if you’re looking for a way to replace one or more missing teeth, we’ll be happy to help you find the right solution. 

Dental Problem FAQs

Take a look at our most common dental problem questions. If you have any further queries, be sure to ask.

Yes, hypothyroidism can cause dental problems. One of the most common problems associated with hypothyroidism is gum disease. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can eventually lead to tooth loss. People with hypothyroidism are more susceptible to gum disease because the condition lowers the body’s ability to fight infection. In addition, people with hypothyroidism may also experience dry mouth, which can lead to raised levels of bacteria in the mouth and an increased risk of cavities. Other dental problems associated with hypothyroidism include tooth decay, Halitosis (bad breath), and enamel wear. You must see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings if you have hypothyroidism. 

It may seem like a stretch to think that something as seemingly innocuous as a toothache could lead to an upset stomach. Still, there is a very strong connection between dental and digestive health. Oral bacteria can travel to the digestive tract and cause inflammation when it enters the bloodstream. This inflammation can lead to several digestive problems, including diarrhoea, constipation, and nausea. In addition, tooth decay and gum disease can cause pain and sensitivity in the mouth, making it difficult to eat. As a result, poor dental health can indirectly cause various digestive issues. Therefore, it is crucial to see a dentist regularly in order to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid potential gut problems down the road. 

Many medications can harm dental health. For example, some medicines can cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of cavities and other infections. Other medicines can cause gum disease by interfering with the body’s ability to fight off bacteria. Some medications can make it difficult for the body to absorb calcium, which is essential for healthy teeth. To avoid these problems, talk to a dentist about any medications being taken. The dentist can then determine whether the medication will cause dental problems and make recommendations accordingly. 

Excess saliva can signify dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, or abscesses. When there is damage to the teeth or gum tissue, it can trigger the salivary glands to produce more saliva to wash away the bacteria. Saliva also contains enzymes that help break down food, so an increase in saliva production can also be a sign that the body is trying to digest something irritating the mouth or throat. In addition, certain medications, such as antihistamines, can cause dry mouth, leading to excess saliva production.

Dental problems can cause headaches in a few different ways. If you have a toothache, the pain can radiate out of your tooth and cause a headache. At the same time, an infection in your mouth can cause inflammation and pain, leading to a headache. Grinding your teeth can strain the muscles in your jaw, leading to tension headaches. If you are experiencing headaches, see a dentist to rule out any dental problems. Once dental issues are resolved, you may also find that your headaches go away. 

Teeth sensitivity is a common problem that is caused by many factors. One of the most common causes is exposed tooth roots. When the gum tissue recedes, it exposes the root surface, which is much more sensitive than the enamel that covers the rest of the tooth. Another common cause of tooth sensitivity is worn tooth enamel. Worn enamel can occur from aggressive brushing, clenching or grinding, acid reflux, or other acidic foods and drinks. Lastly, teeth may be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures due to microscopic cracks in the enamel. 

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