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Nov27

What Is Gingivitis and How Can You Prevent It?

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What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. Your gums are an important part of your mouth that helps to stabilise and seal the roots of your teeth and jaw bones. The gums also serve as a protective barrier against harmful bacteria and plaque.

Gingivitis is caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky, colourless film that coats the teeth and gums after eating and drinking that acts as a home for bacteria to grow. When there is too much bacteria in your mouth, it can cause an infection of the gums, known as gingivitis.

If your gums become infected, the surrounding bone, teeth and other tissues can be affected. The good news is, if it is identified and treated quickly, gingivitis is reversible!

Signs of Gingivitis

Surprisingly, many people might not even know if they have gingivitis, as it is often painless.
However, there are some signs and symptoms to look out for:

  • Swelling or inflammation of gums
  • Tender gums
  • Small pockets forming in gums around the teeth
  • Bleeding during brushing or flossing
  • Receding gums
  • Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
  • Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold

When gingivitis is allowed to progress it can develop into severe periodontitis. Periodontitis is the late stage of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss, bone loss, infection and abscesses. While the infection can be treated, it is always better to ensure your gums stay healthy and prevent gingivitis in the first place.

How To Prevent Gingivitis

There are several simple ways to prevent gingivitis:

1. Good oral hygiene

This is the first and most important step. Good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing help to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria in the mouth. Sometimes it can be hard to remove all the plaque from those hard to reach places. When the plaque is not removed it can harden, forming tartar which should be professionally removed by your dentist.

2. See your dentist regularly

Your dentist will clean your teeth, removing any plaque or tartar which may be missed when brushing and flossing. Your dentist will also conduct an overall oral check up, and if gingivitis is present, you may be prescribed topical treatments such as special toothpastes or mouthwash to help reduce any harmful bacteria.

3. Eat a healthy diet

Starchy foods such as candy, crackers, pasta and bread can stick to your teeth, and the sugars in these carbohydrates are a breeding ground for bacteria. Fresh vegetables, fruit, cheese and nuts are better choices especially for snacks. Some foods, such as apples, carrots and celery can even help remove plaque as you eat! Healthier foods will also contain minerals and vitamins that contribute to healthy bones and are good for your gums.

4. Stop smoking

If you smoke, stop! Smoking increases the occurrence of small pockets forming around the teeth. It also reduces the blood supply to the gums, and good circulation is important for healthy gums. In addition, smoking also increases the risk for oral cancer.

We hope this article has given you some of the signs to look out for and tips to ensure your gums are healthy. If you have any questions about gingivitis or anything related to oral health, schedule a dental check-up with our friendly team at Underwood Dental Care on 07 3341 9770.

Nov14

Why Dental Mouthguards are Better than Chemist Bought Ones

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Mouthguards are used to protect your teeth, cheeks, lips and tongue from injury in many different circumstances. Although they’re most commonly associated with protecting the teeth and mouth of athletes during sporting activities, they are also used to protect teeth from grinding during sleep, to reduce snoring and relieve sleep apnoea.

Dentists recommend using mouthguards during sports and other recreational activities. When used in sports, they cushion the mouth and can reduce the severity of injury to the face and head. Studies show that up to 39% of dental injuries happen during sporting activities!

There are three types of mouthguards: stock mouthguards, boil-and-bite mouthguards and custom-made mouthguards.

Stock Mouthguards

Stock mouthguards are the least expensive option and are available at sporting goods and chemist shops. They come in several sizes and are worn over the upper teeth. Stock mouthguards usually won’t fit as well and can be uncomfortable. They provide the least protection because they don’t fit tightly, and can make talking difficult while wearing one.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Boil-and-bite mouthguards are also ready-made devices available at chemist and sporting goods shops. A pre-formed mould is heated until it becomes soft, and the user bites down on the mould to create an impression of the teeth. Although boil-and-bite mouthguards fit better than stock varieties, they are also bulky, and this type of mouthguard is more expensive than stock types.

Custom Mouthguards

Custom mouthguards are made specifically for you by a dentist. First, an impression of your teeth is made, and a laboratory fashions a device that is perfectly fitted to your mouth. It is made of special materials that provide more protection, and thickness can be adjusted to suit your needs. Most dentists recommend a thickness of between 3 and 4mm, and custom mouthguards can also be fitted to both the lower and upper teeth, as well as being fitted to be worn comfortably over braces.

Although custom mouthguards are more expensive, they provide the best protection against injury. Wearing a custom-made mouthguard protects the teeth, jaws and neck if an accident happens during sports. Studies have shown that the risk of concussion in athletes using store-bought devices can be up to twice as high as those wearing custom-made mouthguards.

How to Care for a Mouthguard

Your mouthguard should be cleaned before and after each use. Rinse under cool water before using. After removing the device, brush it with a soft toothbrush using mouthwash, toothpaste or soap. Rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. Store it in a container that allows air to circulate. Your dentist should provide an appropriate storage box with air vents.

Be sure to keep your container away from high heat, including direct sunlight, and freezing temperatures. Extremes of temperature may cause warping or cracking. If the mouthguard becomes cracked or worn, let your dentist examine it to make sure it’s still functioning properly.

Be sure to brush your teeth before using a mouthguard. Because the mouthguard fits snugly against teeth, it can trap bacteria and food particles that can cause tooth decay.

Here at Underwood Dental Care, we offer professionally fitted mouthguards for no out of pocket expense (with private insurance) from $140. Contact our friendly team today to book your appointment.

Aug14

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign

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If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, Invisalign can be a practical and comfortable way to realign your teeth. Unlike traditional braces that have fixed brackets and wires, the Invisalign system is removable and invisible.

Below we’ve covered some of the most frequently asked questions, and if you want to learn more you can drop in to speak with our knowledgeable dental team about whether Invisalign is an option for you.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign uses aligners that fit snugly over the teeth to correct malocclusions (misaligned teeth positioning). First, a 3D image is taken of your mouth and teeth, and a series of aligners are created that gradually move teeth into position.

The aligners are removable and can be cleaned. In contrast to traditional braces, there are no brackets, wires or other hardware.

Who Makes Invisalign?

The product is made by Align Technology, a pioneer in orthodontic treatment.

Align Technology created the first invisible orthodontic braces, and the company went on to develop the iTero Intraoral scanner, an imaging system that provides digital diagnosis and treatment information to dentists and other oral practitioners.

What Types of Malocclusion Are Treated By Invisalign?

Invisalign can be used to successfully treat an array of tooth alignment problems such as crowded teeth, bite problems, gaps between teeth and other straightening needs.

However, there are some conditions that may need to be treated with traditional braces. As with any orthodontic treatment your dentist will examine the position of your teeth and other oral structures to determine the best treatment option for your dental alignment needs.

How Does It Work?

Based on the 3D iTero scan of your mouth, your dentist will design a treatment plan that details the gradual straightening of your teeth. A series of aligners will be made, each to be used for approximately two weeks.

The aligner fits over your teeth and is designed to use a constant force that gently moves teeth according to the treatment plan. Your aligners should be worn at least 22 hours a day.

Make sure to remove the aligners before you eat or drink. After eating or drinking, simply brush and floss your teeth and put them back in. There are no restrictions on what you can eat, unlike traditional braces.

Because Invisalign aligners are clear and fit snugly over your teeth, they are virtually invisible. No one will be able to tell that you’re wearing them or that you are having orthodontic treatment.

How Often Do I See the Dentist?

Your dentist will evaluate your progress at regular intervals, typically between six and eight weeks. Compared to traditional braces, there are fewer visits to the dentist with the Invisalign system, and the duration of treatment can be under half the normal time.

Where traditional braces are typically worn for two years, Invisalign treatment may last between six and eighteen months.

Is Invisalign Right for Me?

Invisalign is effective for most treatment needs, including overbites, underbites and crossbites. If you want to enhance your smile or improve your oral health, Invisalign is a great choice.

Invisalign Teen is a popular option for teenagers who may feel self-conscious using traditional braces. The trays are specially designed to keep the roots of teeth in the correct place during treatment, and include a built-in indicator that shows whether they are being worn properly and for the correct amount of time.

In addition, Align Technology provides up to six free replacement trays in case one gets lost.

How Much Does It Cost?

As Invisalign is a recognised orthodontic treatment, many insurance providers cover all or part of Invisalign treatment. The total cost of treatment can differ and is determined by the complexity of the treatment required.

Underwood Dental Care are your friendly, qualified providers of Invisalign orthodontic services. Call (07) 3341 9770 to find out more about treatment or to set up an appointment for evaluation.

Jul31

15 Ways to Fix Bad Breath!

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Halitosis or ‘bad breath‘ can be caused by many different factors – some temporary and easy to fix, while others are more chronic and require greater intervention. To help you stay minty-fresh, here are some quick ways to fix bad breath!

1. Brush Your Teeth More

Really you should only need to brush your teeth 2-3 times a day, but if you’re eating or drinking substances that cause bad breath, you may want to get the toothbrush out afterwards.

Brushing will do two things – it gets rid of the food built up from meals and removes bacteria from your teeth and mouth that cause bad breath. Just don’t brush too much! Excessive brushing could damage your teeth and gums.

2. Avoid Odorous Foods Like Onion and Garlic

These common culprits, along with leeks, shallots, and chives, will cause bad breath thanks to the sulphuric compounds found within. These sulphuric compounds can even work their way into your bloodstream until you exhale and sweat them out!

3. Limit Coffee Intake

There are three reasons coffee can give you bad breath:

    • It has a naturally strong odour (and milk doesn’t help!);
    • Coffee is high in sulphur; and
    • Caffeine limits saliva production.

It can be hard to stop coffee but if you’re noticing persistently bad breath, try to limit to once or twice a day.

4. Keep Your Mouth Moisturised

A dry mouth is a smelly mouth (think of when you first wake up). No saliva in the mouth has the effect of not washing away bacteria and food debris, and it starts breaking down and releasing an odour. The more you rinse your mouth out, the better your breath should be.

5. Stop Smoking

Smoking can lead to the well known “smoker’s breath”, which is caused by a number of factors:

  • Smoke particles are left in the throat and lungs.
  • The chemicals in tobacco linger in the mouth (and there’s a lot of them…).
  • Tobacco dries the palate, and leads to chronic bad breath.
  • Long term smoking can coat teeth with tartar and also cause gum disease, leading to bad breath.

6. Don’t Drink Alcohol

Excessive consumption will cause bad breath and the cause of this is best explained by how the body treats the toxin. Alcohol will be converted primarily into acetic acid, some of which is excreted in the sweat and out through the lungs. Some drinks are worse than others – the more odour in the drink, the more prominent the breath – think dark liquors, cocktails and dark beers.

7. Floss Often

Plaque and bacteria can build up in difficult to reach areas of your teeth, and as mentioned, over time that bacteria will release odours resulting in bad breath.

Flossing often will remove harder to reach bacteria and food particles and aid in improving your breath.

8. Chew Sugarless Gum

Any type of chewing will increase saliva flow and wash away bacteria and food debris left over from meals, and sugarless gum will help to ensure you can maintain saliva without needless snacking throughout the day.

9. Ketogenic Diets

That’s right, the cure all diet that will make you lose weight by eating fat (and limiting carbs) will also make your breath stink – why? The ketones you create (or more specifically acetone) is excreted in the urine and breath. But don’t worry, usually after two weeks, your body should be used to being in ketosis and the bad breath should subside.

10. The Paleo Diet

The paleo diet also limits carbs but requires one to load up on protein. An increase in protein in the body can cause smelly breath – the mechanism being an increase in ammonia.

11. Get a New Toothbrush Every 3 months

A good toothbrush will only last around three months; any longer and the bristles become frayed and won’t be cleaning your teeth effectively. Poor cleaning will allow plaque and bacteria build up in your mouth and gums and lead to bad breath.

12. Brush Your Tongue!

It might feel weird, but it’s worth it. Your tongue is as big a receptacle for bacteria as your teeth are. Brush it well to get into the buds and crevices where rinsing with water simply won’t work.

13. Get Regular Dental Check Ups

A regular dental visit will allow our dental team to identify and provide remedies for any issues that are leading to bad breath. The oral hygienist will also give your teeth a professional clean, getting rid of that hard to reach bacteria.

14. Snack on a Carrot or Celery Stick

Eating a crispy vegetable will increase saliva flow in your mouth and get rid of bacteria that’s built up between meals. Additionally, acid build up in your stomach between meals causes bad breath – having healthy snacks in between meals can negate this acid build up.

15. Clean Your Dentures

Just as uncleaned natural teeth can cause bad breath, so can false teeth. Not only do the dentures themselves need a good clean but also the gums which they reside on – it’s mainly in these hidden areas inside the mouth where food can become trapped and allow bacteria build up. Brush the area thoroughly and make sure any denture adhesive is replaced.

Stick to the above tips and you shouldn’t have any issues with bad breath again. If you’re still struggling with it, a visit to Underwood Dental Care will be the best way to help you diagnose and fix the problem, once and for all!

Jun18

All About Dentures

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As we age, we can become more prone to losing our teeth. As we lose sensitivity, we’re less able to feel pain from tooth decay or gum disease, and often it’s too late to save a decaying tooth in an elderly patient. As a result, lost teeth can cause issues such as difficulty talking, eating and loss of confidence.

Dentures are prosthetic apparatuses supported by the gums and bones of the jaw. They provide an enormous benefit to a patient as they restore eating and speaking ability, improve appearance and enable one to lead a normal life.

What are the Different Types of Dentures?

Full Dentures

As the name suggests, full mouth dentures or complete dentures replace an entire row of upper or lower teeth. Your set of dentures are constructed prior to the removal of teeth to ensure you’re never without teeth for any period of time. Full dentures are held in the mouth by suction to the gum, which is achieved through a customised fit, and they can be easily removed for convenient cleaning.

While it may be daunting and can take a little getting used to, dentures help to fill the gap in your life allowing you to return to your normal activities with confidence.

Overdentures

Used when most or all teeth require replacement, overdentures are held in place by existing teeth or implants. They are a durable and secure option that won’t move whilst eating and talking, as your existing teeth or implants keep them in position. While secure during normal activities, overdentures are still fully removable, allowing for easy cleaning.

Partial Dentures

When there’s only a requirement to replace a few teeth and the rest of the mouth is healthy, partial dentures can provide a cost-effective and less invasive teeth replacement option. Partial dentures restore the form and function of your jaw by replacing one or several missing teeth.

Partial dentures also help to keep your real teeth from moving out of their original positions as they will correct any empty gaps and prevent the natural migration that occurs when teeth are missing.

A new product called Valplast are flexible partial dentures that are starting to gain popularity due to their comfort and durability. Valplast are made of a combination of resin and nylon, creating a highly flexible partial denture that is also fast to produce.

Bridges

Unlike traditional dentures, bridges or fixed dentures are a permanent tooth replacement option. Bridges are designed to replace missing teeth (up to three teeth in a row) by having adjacent teeth or implants act as a support mechanism. Due to the nature of adhesion for bridges or fixed dentures, they require fitting and removal by a qualified dentist.

As bridges are a permanent solution, it’s still important to brush and floss as normal in order to maintain your oral health.

What are Dentures Made From?

Dentures are primarily made from acrylic, due to ease of manipulation and similar appearance to natural teeth and gums. Less commonly, they can also be made of porcelain or ceramics. Metal can be used to reinforce the base to add durability, strength and stability helping to ensure the longevity of the dentures.

As the various types of teeth replacement options are made of different materials, it’s important to follow the care instructions provided by your dentist to ensure the longevity of your dentures.

How Are Dentures Made?

During the construction of the dentures, the patient will need to be seen about once a week for four or five weeks. At each visit, a different process is performed to make sure the denture fits perfectly and does not impair speaking or eating.
This process involves:

  • Taking impressions of your mouth
  • The creation of bite moulds to ensure your biting action is comfortable
  • The creation of wax models that will display to you how your new smile will look and work
  • The fitting of your completed dentures!

You can also choose the colour, shape and size of your new teeth during these appointments to create your ideal smile.

Are There Alternatives to Dentures?

Dental Implants

Dental implants are surgically implanted metal fixtures that are fused to the jawbone. They act as an anchor to replace a single tooth. Implants are not removable and can last a lifetime if properly cared for.

Although implants are an expensive option, they simulate the strength of natural teeth better than any synthetic option, and living with them is easier than removable dentures. To qualify for implants, you’ll need healthy gums and plenty of supportive bone.

Rest assured, whatever denture option you receive, the primary goal will be to have them looking and feeling as natural as possible while ensuring the jaw and facial functions are maintained or restored.

If you have questions about dentures, call us today on 07 3341 9771 at Underwood Dental Care to book your appointment so we can assess the appropriate tooth replacement option for you.