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A majority of people have never heard the term malocclusion- that is unless they have ever had a dentist correct a misaligned jawbone on them. However, most people know someone who has a certain degree of malocclusion. It may be a friend, nephew, niece or just a child. Statistics have it that at least two out of three Australians were born with this condition.
What is Malocclusion?
Malocclusion is derived from the term occlusion, which is a dental term referring to the misalignment problem of the teeth. Ideally, properly aligned teeth should be able to fit inside the mouth properly without any issues to do with spacing. Also, the top teeth should slightly fit over the bottom and maintain a zipper-like connection while in bite position. Malocclusion can be a very uncomfortable condition and can lead to a constant bite of your lips, cheeks and tongue. It can also lead to other dental condition due to difficulties in cleaning some of the parts in the mouth.
Common Types of Malocclusion
Underbite (Class 1)
This is a condition where teeth from the lower jaw land in front of the teeth from the upper jaw while in bite position. If this condition does not receive proper treatment, it can affect both the incisors and molars from the upper jaw. The dentist can correct the problem by pushing teeth from the lower jaw behind.
Overbite (Class 2)
This type of malocclusion occurs when teeth from the upper and lower jaw overlap. Averagely, an overbite leaves a space of between 3 to 5 mm between the teeth. An overbite comprises almost 70% of the condition found in children.
Crossbite (Class 3)
This type of malocclusion is caused by irregularities of the occlusal surface of the teeth, where the bite lines up. The condition can affect one or both jaws.
Symptoms of Malocclusion
Difficulties in Chewing
Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose
Frequent biting of lips
Improper teeth alignment
Frequent biting of cheeks
Alteration in face appearance
Headaches
Pain while chewing
Causes of Malocclusion
What exactly causes malocclusion? The bad news is that some of the causes cannot be avoided. The good news is despite the cause; there is something that can be done to limit the chances or treat the condition. Here are some of the causes.
Genetics
Some people experience malocclusion due to genetics. If your malocclusion is because of genetics, it means there is nothing much you can do to prevent it. In the event that your family has a history of malocclusion, make sure you take your children to see the dentist regularly.
Thumb-Sucking and Overuse of Soother
Parents should watch their children and discourage extensive thumb sucking. Also, children, especially those that come from a family with a history of malocclusion, should avoid using soothers as this may cause teeth misalignment.
Abnormal Tooth Development
A parent can take all the necessary measures such as discouraging thumb sucking and limiting the use of soothers but still fail to prevent malocclusion. The condition can occur due to abnormal tooth development. In most cases, this may occur if too many or too few teeth grow together during an early age.
Treatment
Malocclusion can be treated using several methods. The most effective method is by use of braces. Braces apply constant pressure on teeth and slowly pushes them in position. Also, in extreme conditions, the problem may be solved through surgery by an oral surgeon.
Bottom Line
Malocclusion is a common problem and affects a large number of people. We at Carrum Downs Dental Group are well aware of this and are always ready to help. Visit our practice today and let us help you brighten your smile.
A dental abscess is a collection of pus located in the tooth roots and/or gums as a result of a bacterial infection. In most cases, it resembles a pimple, and it can appear in different areas of a tooth for various reasons. A dental abscess can result in severe pain and great discomfort for most patients. If it’s left untreated, it can turn into a serious and life-threatening condition. If you happen to have a tooth abscess, you may be wondering why you have one and how to treat it.
Read on to find out more about dental abscess- its symptoms, cause and treatment.
Know the Signs and Symptoms of Dental Abscess
The main symptom of a tooth abscess is a pain. Usually, this may be unbearable and intense pain. In most instances, this pain starts suddenly and becomes more intense as time goes by. The pain typically radiates to the jawbone, neck and ear. However, there are other symptoms to look out for; they include:
A bad taste in the mouth
Difficulties in swallowing
Hot or cold sensitivity
Problems opening the mouth
Pain in the affected area when biting or chewing
Tender and swollen lymph nodes in your neck or under your jaw
Fever
Causes of Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is often caused by untreated tooth decay, a fractured tooth, a broken filling or from a gum infection. The mouth is always full of bacteria, however, they are kept out of the tooth by the tooth enamel. So, when tooth decay erodes the enamel, or your tooth gets fractures, bacteria gets the chance of entering your tooth. When this happens, your immune system sends white blood cells to fight the bacteria, and as a result pus, dead tissues and bacteria are formed. And since there is no enough room in your tooth to accommodate the infected materials, a pocket of pus is formed at the root of your tooth.
Dental Abscess Treatments
With proper treatment and care, your dental abscess and toothache can be completely cured. A tooth abscess can be treated in several ways, including a gum incision to drain out the infection or a root canal where the infected tissues are scraped out, and the tooth is repaired with a crown. In other extreme cases, tooth extraction may be the only treatment option. Therefore, the dentist will pull out the infected tooth and clean out the abscess to get rid of the infection. You may be prescribed some antibiotics if you have a weak immune system or to eliminate the risks of re-infection.
Bottom Line
As soon as you start experiencing any tooth pain or develop a toothache, ensure that you visit your dentist immediately. A dental abscess is not something that will just fade away on its own. You will save yourself some trouble and throbbing pain if you get the problem diagnosed and treated early enough.
Tooth enamel is the layer on the outer surface of your teeth that offers protection against physical and chemical damage. Tooth enamel is tough. Actually, it is considered as the toughest and hardest mineral substance in your body-even harder than bone. Its primary function is to protect your teeth against the numerous chemicals they get exposed to from bodily fluids, food and drinks. As a result, tooth enamel is likely to wear and tear. And this process is known as enamel erosion.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Enamel Erosion?
Enamel erosion is not completely obvious, especially in the first stages, but here are some of the possible signs of tooth enamel loss.
Roughness
If your teeth are slowly becoming rough around the edges, it is likely that you are experiencing the early stages of enamel erosion. Additionally, indentations on your teeth surface can be a sign of tooth enamel erosion.
Shape and Colour
If your teeth appear shiny or yellow, that might be a sign of enamel erosion.
Tooth Sensitivity
If your teeth start becoming sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks that may indicate an early sign of enamel erosion. Increased and extreme tooth sensitivity can be a sign of later stages of enamel loss. To get some relief from the sensitivity, you can try brushing your teeth with some sensitivity toothpaste as you schedule your visit with the dentist.
What are the Possible Causes of Enamel Erosion?
The acids present in the foods and drinks you consume every day can cause enamel erosion. Saliva helps to neutralise these acids to protect your teeth. However, if you keep on consuming foods and drinks containing high levels of acids and forget to take care of your dental health properly, then your enamel will wear away over time.
Enamel erosion is caused by what you eat daily, mainly:
Acidic foods such as citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, berries, apples
Sodas especially those that contain citric acid, phosphoric acid and sugar
Sugary foods such as caramel, ice cream and syrups
Other causes of enamel erosion include:
Brushing too hard
Teeth grinding
Drugs or supplements that contain a lot of acids such as aspirin and vitamin C
If you are suffering from chronic enamel erosion, your dentist may recommend several treatment techniques such as tooth bonding. Bonding is a procedure which involves covering the damaged teeth using a tooth-coloured material. The material can cover up the discolouration and protect the tooth from further damage. In other severe cases, the dentist may add a crown or veneer to protect your damaged teeth.
Bottom Line
The best way of treating enamel erosion is preventing it from occurring in the first place. And if your enamel is already damaged, you can prevent it from worsening by taking proper care of your teeth.
If you are already dealing with the condition or have any concerns related to oral health, please feel free to contact or schedule an appointment with us at Carrum Downs Dental Group, and we will be pleased to attend to you.
The tongue is one of the most powerful organs in the body. However, a majority of people tend to ignore it. The tongue can reveal a lot of surprising secrets about your health. From autoimmune diseases, diabetes, anaemia, to food allergies. It can reveal if your health is improving or deteriorating. Here are some of the surprising things your tongue can tell you about your health.
Strawberry Red Colour Tongue
If your tongue has a strawberry red colour, it might be an indicator that you do not have enough vitamins in your body. The most probable vitamin you might be lacking in vitamin B12. If you do not get the right vitamins as soon as possible, it might start becoming smooth and shiny due to swollen taste buds. In severe cases, you might experience some pain, especially when taking hot beverages.
Geographic Tongue
Geographic tongue is one that appears like a map. A geographic tongue tends to have some smooth red patches with some slightly raised borders resembling an island. This condition is more common with the middle-aged adults and can be simply a sign of aging. Usually, this condition is harmless, but if you don’t practice proper dental care, infection can develop in between the tongue. Therefore, you can control it with good dental care habits.
Black or Brown Plaque
Black or brown plaque on the tongue can be quite frightening. However, in most cases, this is a result of bad dental habits such as smoking and drinking a lot of coffee and tea. The condition results in a spiteful smell from the mouth and taste anomalies. This means you might be having some difficulties recognising tastes. To control this condition, give up the bad habit and practice good dental hygiene as well as visit your dentist regularly.
White Coating
White coating on the tongue may indicate a sign of infection. The most common infection may be yeast or candidiasis. Tongue infection may interfere with the taste buds making you feel as if all foods are tasteless. The condition is easily treated by the dentist through the use of right antifungal drugs.
Painful Sores
Painful sore is a sign of oral rush. This is a disease that is most common in children, but a good number of adults can still suffer from it. The sores can be a sign of a weak immune system or stress. Normally, these sores will appear and disappear within two weeks without any treatment. However, in case they fail to disappear within that time, it is best to see your dentist immediately.
Bottom line
Your tongue says a lot about your oral and dental health. Slight changes in the appearance of your tongue should never be taken for granted. Make sure you use your mirror well to examine your tongue every day while carrying out your oral hygiene routine. If you notice any slight abnormalities with your tongue, make sure you visit use at Carrum Downs Dental Group immediately. Our dentist will examine you and recommend the best way to tackle the condition.
Dental health plays a crucial role in our overall well-being, yet many people experience common oral health issues that can significantly impact their quality of life. Understanding these problems and their treatments can help you maintain optimal dental health and know when to seek professional care. Here are the ten most prevalent dental problems and how modern dentistry addresses them.
Tooth Decay (Cavities)
Tooth decay remains the most common dental problem worldwide, affecting people of all ages. Caused by bacteria that produce acid from sugars and starches in food, cavities form when tooth enamel breaks down over time. Early-stage decay may not cause symptoms, but advanced cavities can lead to severe pain and infection.
Tooth decay treatment depends on the severity of decay. Small cavities are typically treated with dental fillings using composite resin, amalgam, or ceramic materials. When decay becomes extensive, dental crowns may be needed to rebuild and protect the tooth’s original shape and strength. For cases involving infected tooth pulp, endodontic treatment such as root canal procedures helps preserve the natural tooth structure.
Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis)
Periodontal disease impacts countless individuals worldwide and represents a primary factor in adult tooth loss. The condition initially manifests as gingivitis, presenting symptoms such as inflamed, tender, and bleeding gum tissue. If left untreated, the condition advances to periodontitis, during which bacterial infection penetrates deeper beneath the gum tissue, gradually breaking down the supporting structures and jawbone that anchor teeth in place.
Early-stage gum disease responds well to professional dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene. Advanced periodontitis may require scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotic therapy, or surgical procedures like flap surgery or bone grafts to restore damaged tissues.
Tooth Sensitivity
Dental sensitivity triggers intense, momentary discomfort when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic substances. This condition develops when the tooth’s outer enamel layer deteriorates or gum tissue pulls back, revealing the sensitive dentin underneath.
Treatment options include desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride applications, dental bonding to cover exposed root surfaces, or surgical gum grafts in severe cases. Your dentist may also recommend lifestyle changes to prevent further enamel erosion.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Persistent bad breath affects confidence and social interactions. While occasional bad breath is normal, chronic halitosis often indicates underlying dental or medical issues, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, or certain medications.
Treatment focuses on addressing the root cause. This may involve improved oral hygiene routines, professional cleanings, treatment of gum disease, or management of dry mouth conditions. In some cases, addressing underlying medical conditions is necessary.
Tooth Loss
Missing teeth may develop due to extensive cavities, progressive periodontal disease, physical injury, or natural aging processes. Missing teeth affect chewing ability, speech, and facial structure, often leading to bone loss in the jaw.
Modern replacement options include dental implants, which provide the most natural-looking and functional solution by replacing both the tooth root and crown. Partial or complete dentures offer removable alternatives, while dental bridges can replace one or more adjacent missing teeth.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth often lack sufficient space to emerge properly, becoming impacted and causing pain, swelling, and potential damage to adjacent teeth. They can also create areas difficult to clean, leading to decay and gum disease.
Wisdom toothache relief commonly requires surgical removal of the problematic teeth. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, with sedation options available for anxious patients. Removing wisdom teeth at the appropriate time typically helps prevent future complications and supports long-term dental wellness.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Habitual jaw clenching and tooth grinding, especially during nighttime hours, often results in substantial enamel damage, temporomandibular joint discomfort, and recurring headaches. Stress, sleep disorders, and misaligned teeth often contribute to this condition.
Treatment includes custom-fitted night guards to protect teeth during sleep, stress management techniques, and correction of bite problems. In severe cases, muscle relaxants or Botox injections may be recommended to reduce jaw muscle tension.
Dental Trauma and Chipped Teeth
Physical injuries, athletic activities, or contact with hard materials can result in fractured, broken, or completely dislodged teeth. Immediate professional attention is crucial for preventing additional harm and maintaining tooth viability.
Small fractures can often be addressed through cosmetic bonding or porcelain veneers. More significant structural damage may necessitate crown placement or endodontic therapy. Teeth that have been completely avulsed have optimal success rates for reattachment when professional treatment occurs within sixty minutes of the incident.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth or throat, often appearing as persistent sores, lumps, or discolored patches. Contributing factors encompass tobacco usage, heavy alcohol intake, human papillomavirus infection, and chronic sun damage to the lips.
Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Regular dental examinations include oral cancer screenings. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted drug therapy, depending on the cancer’s stage and location.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Reduced saliva production affects oral health by increasing cavity risk and making swallowing difficult. Medications, medical treatments, autoimmune conditions, and aging commonly cause dry mouth.
Treatment focuses on stimulating saliva production through sugar-free gum or lozenges, prescription medications, and artificial saliva products. Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol-based mouthwashes also helps manage symptoms.
Prevention is Key
Many dental problems are preventable through proper oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and avoiding tobacco products. Routine professional examinations enable timely identification and intervention for oral health issues before they develop into more complex conditions.
Conclusion
Carrum Downs Dental stands dedicated to supporting your journey toward excellent oral health through individualized, comprehensive dental services. Our skilled clinical team delivers cutting-edge tooth decay treatment and solutions for all prevalent dental concerns within a relaxing, patient-focused setting. Located conveniently at Shop T5, 100 Hall Road, Carrum Downs, we’re open seven days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM to accommodate your busy schedule.
Don’t let dental problems affect your quality of life. Reach out to Carrum Downs Dental today to book your appointment and begin your path toward improved oral health and renewed confidence in your smile. Our dedicated professionals are ready to address your dental concerns with the latest techniques and technologies in modern dentistry.
A majority of people dread visiting the dentist, especially when it comes to wisdom teeth removal. For some, the fear comes from the sound of dental equipment from the dentist office. Some fear the injections from the dental technician while others just have an irrational fear with everything to do with teeth removal and a dental office. However, for most people, the fear comes since they do not know what to expect during the procedure. This article takes a look at the wisdom teeth removal procedure as well as possible complications.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
Wisdom teeth procedure can be carried out by a regular dentist or a dental surgeon. Regardless, these are the steps that will be followed during the treatment.
X-ray
Once your dentist has recommended wisdom teeth removal for you, the next step is taking an x-ray. This will help determine the shape and position of your teeth and will let your dentist know who will perform the procedure.
Anaesthesia
Before the process can start, you will receive oral anaesthesia to numb the surrounding area. If you are anxious about the procedure, your dentist will give you sedatives to help you relax. General anaesthesia is rare during wisdom teeth removal, but it is normally administered to extremely anxious patients.
Tissue Removal
If the tooth has not come through the gum, the dentist will make a small incision to access it. The dentist will use some surgical instruments to push the gum out of the way.
Bone Removal
The chances are that the bone might cover the wisdom teeth. In such an occurrence, the dentist will use a high-speed handpiece to drill through and access the tooth.
Loosening the Sectioning of the Tooth
Once the wisdom teeth are visible to the dentist, he/she will use some surgical instruments to loosen the tooth. The same procedure applies to any tooth that has already erupted. Also, depending on the position of the tooth, the dentist may choose to cut it into sections to prevent it from breaking before it is extracted.
Stitches
Once the tooth has been removed, the dentist will now use stitches to close up the area.
Possible Complications during Wisdom Teeth Removal
Alveolar Osteitis (Dry Socket)
After wisdom teeth removal procedure, a blood clot forms on the site as a normal part of the healing process. However, a condition known as dry socket may develop if the blood clot is dislodged. Dry socket can occur 3 to 5 days after the procedure.
Paresthesia
A section of patients can also be affected by paresthesia. This is a condition that occurs if a nerve closest to the root gets damaged or bruised. The condition can result in temporary loss of feeling to the tongue, upper or lower jaw. This means that you will be unable to feel touch, pain, or sensitivity to changes in temperature.
Bottom Line
Wisdom teeth removal procedure can scare people and make them avoid visiting the dentist at all. However, that should not be the case since the procedure does not have to be painful. Talk to our dentist at Carrum Downs Dental Group, and we will apply different methods to make the process as painless and comfortable as possible. Also, our dentists are well qualified, and thus, chances of any possible complications are almost zero.
When a person has a cavity in their tooth, the chances are that the dentist will recommend dental filling for them. Dental filling is very safe, effective and prevents tooth decay. However, most of the times, patients experience throbbing pain and sensitivity that will go away within a few days or weeks. A person should seek immediate attention from their dentist if there is extreme pain, or if the discomfort is associated with other symptoms such as fever, swelling, and redness. This article will take a look at the reason why one experiences throbbing pain and sensitivity after dental filling and how to deal with the issue.
What is Dental Filling?
Dental filling is a common way used by dentists to treat cavities, which are small holes in the enamel that can later result in tooth decay if not treated. During the filling, the dentist uses a substance such as an amalgam or composite to fill the holes. This is done after the dentist has cleaned away any decay from the tooth. While this is a very simple dental procedure, it leaves many people with throbbing pain and sensitivity.
What to Expect After the Filling
During the procedure, the dentist will always numb the area around the affected tooth to avoid any pain and discomfort. You will probably not feel any pain within the first hour after the procedure. You might start noticing some unusual sensation in your mouth once the numbness wears off. These include:
Tenderness in your gums
Pain in your teeth, especially when taking hot or cold foods and beverages and breathing cold air
Pain when clenching
Pain in the teeth surrounding the filling
What Causes Throbbing Pain and Sensitivity After a Dental Filling?
In most cases, throbbing pain and sensitivity are normal and temporary after a dental filling. However, the pain and sensitivity may be due to other causes that might require attention from the dentist. Here are some of the causes:
An Irritated Nerve
One may experience short term nerve sensitivity because the filling has aggravated a nerve or has caused inflammation in the nerve inside the tooth. The tooth structure consists of several layers; the outer one is the enamel, followed by the dentine and then the pulp, which contains nerve endings. Sometimes the filling can come close to the nerve ending and cause some irritation. However, as the tooth heals, the throbbing pain and sensitivity will slowly go away.
Incorrect Bite
The dentist needs to make sure that the filling is in line with other teeth in the mouth. If the tooth is taller than the others, it can cause some extra pressure while biting down. This can cause pain and severe sensitivity. It is normal to feel some pain and sensitivity while biting down, which wears off after some time, but if the pain is unbearable, make sure you visit your dentist right away.
Conclusion
Throbbing pain and minor sensitivity should not be the cause of alarm after a dental filling. In most cases, the discomfort will wear off after some few days or weeks. However, you should see a dentist right away in case the pain and sensitivity worsens.
Nearly half of Australian adults over the age of 35 will be told by their dentist at some point that their teeth need deep cleaning. A deep cleaning refers to a non-surgical periodontal treatment, more commonly known as dental scaling and root planning. Scaling and root planning are oral procedures used to clean out the build-up plaque and tartar in the treatment of gum disease.
According to the Australian Dental Association, approximately 45% of adults over 35 have a severe gum disease known as chronic periodontitis. Usually, this procedure is more costly, uncomfortable, and takes quite longer than normal professional cleaning. Therefore, most patients are tempted to avoid or postpone it altogether. However, the consequences of avoiding this procedure can be severe. Advanced periodontitis can damage your jawbone and gum tissue, thus requiring tissue or bone grafts. So, with these potential dangers, dental scaling and root planning is a necessary treatment.
Why Dental Scaling and Root Planning is Necessary?
In most cases, proper oral hygiene is not enough to prevent dental calculus buildup below the gum line. And so, scaling and root planning is necessary for removal of calculus and plaque from the tooth surfaces as part of a gum disease treatment. When your gums are not properly cleaned, they can get irritated and inflamed. They begin to recede and lose their firm attachment to the tooth. Also, the space between your teeth and the gums widens and becomes deep, hence forming pockets which promote the further accumulation of calculus and plaque. Fortunately, at this stage, the condition is reversible by scaling and root planning treatment.
Further gum infection results in advanced periodontitis which leads to extensive loss of jaw bone and gum tissue. Usually, when this occurs, surgery becomes the only treatment option that can restore and save your tooth. On the other hand, if you still do not seek medical help, your tooth will lose its supportive tissues and finally falling off.
How to Know if you Need Scaling and Root Planning?
You may be recommended scaling and root planning procedure if the dentist diagnoses that your sulcus pockets are deeper than 3 mm. The pockets are measured with a probe during your routine dental check-ups. Also, the dentist can locate build-up plaque and calculus inside these pockets using x-rays. You should visit your dentist straight away if you experience any of these symptoms of gums disease:
Pain when flossing or brushing
Gum discoloration
Swollen gums
Gum recession
Red and sensitive gums
Bleeding gums
Tooth pain
As usual, the best way to know if you need scaling and root planning is to ask your dentist. He or she can recommend the best solution by identifying the cause of your symptoms.
Bottom Line
If you suspect that you have early stages of gum disease, do not wait and see. Ensure that you schedule an appointment with the dentist immediately. The dentist will be able to know what is going on with your gums and teeth and how to deal with the problem. If you visit the dentist early enough, you may not even need to get scaling and root planning to fix your problem.
Keeping up with good oral hygiene is quite challenging mainly because the negative impacts of not doing so take quite a long time to set in. However, once the effects set in, the pain, anxiety, and distress that tooth decay causes are enough to make someone completely distracted on anything they do in their life. In dentistry, many dental health issues can be prevented. On the other hand, not everyone is good about watching what they eat, flossing, or brushing. Knowing the early signs of cavities can help you get to the dentist sooner, for more cost-effective and less-invasive treatment. Whereas not all teeth cavities hurt or are obvious, understanding the stages of tooth decay will equip you to take action immediately.
So, to understand what stage of tooth decay, you might currently be facing, read on to learn more about what happens during each stage.
Stage 1: Enamel Lesion
The first stage involves the formation of white spots/ lesion on the tooth. Usually, this manifests itself as a bit of white or brown discoloration on the tooth surface. The initial lesion does not show up on x-rays as tooth decay, but it is an early sign that demineralisation has started. Fortunately, tooth decay at this stage can be reversed and prevented. Your dentist can recommend the use of dental sealants, fluoride treatments, better oral hygiene practices, and other general treatments.
Stage 2: Enamel Decay
This is the stage where the tooth erodes from the bottom outwards. This means that the enamel will still be in a good position for the first half of stage 2. During this stage, if a cavity appears on the surface of the tooth, the only option will be dental filling.
Stage 3: Dentin Decay
If stage two is left untreated, bacteria will continue to wear down the enamel and cavity risks reaching the dentin. Also, you would become more conscious of the cavity because the level of the tooth pain will increase, and sharp pain may be experienced in the infected tooth. At this stage, you will possibly need a dental filling to restore the tooth and prevent the cavity from reaching the pulp.
Stage 4: Involves the Pulp
This is the stage where the pulp gets infected and thus ending up to kill the nerves as well as the blood vessel within the tooth. This is a serious stage, and correction will require root canal treatment.
Stage 5: Abscess Formation
This is the most serious stage. In this stage, the infection has spread to the tip of the root and has even spread to the surrounding tissues. In some instances, it can even affect the bone. Also, the gums and tongue tend to swell, and this may affect speech.
Bottom Line
In the early stages of tooth decay, regular visits to the dentist can help reverse tooth decay. It surely pays to visit your dentist at least twice a year. Practice proper dental hygiene measures, and you will manage to keep yourself far from the final stage. You can keep yourself far from the final stage of tooth decay by taking proper care of your teeth.
In recent years, orthodontic treatment has undergone a revolutionary transformation with the introduction of invisible braces, also known as clear aligners. These innovative dental devices have changed how we approach teeth straightening, offering patients a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional metal braces. Understanding the numerous benefits of invisible braces through comprehensive dental infographics helps patients make informed decisions about their orthodontic journey.
The Aesthetic Advantage: Confidence Throughout Treatment
One of the most significant benefits of invisible braces is their virtually undetectable appearance. Unlike traditional metal braces with conspicuous brackets and wires, clear aligners are made from transparent, medical-grade plastic that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. This aesthetic advantage is particularly valuable for adults and teenagers who want to maintain their professional appearance or social confidence during treatment.
Dental infographics clearly illustrate how invisible braces work by showing before-and-after comparisons, demonstrating that patients can smile freely throughout their treatment without feeling self-conscious. The psychological benefits of maintaining confidence during orthodontic treatment cannot be overstated, as it allows individuals to participate fully in social and professional activities without reservation.
Enhanced Comfort and Convenience
Traditional braces often cause discomfort due to metal brackets and wires that can irritate the mouth’s soft tissues. Invisible braces eliminate these issues, as they’re custom-made from smooth plastic materials that fit snugly over your teeth without sharp edges or protruding elements. This design reduces the likelihood of cuts, sores, or ulcers commonly associated with metal braces.
The removable nature of clear aligners adds another layer of convenience that traditional braces cannot match. Patients can easily remove their aligners for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, maintaining their regular oral hygiene routine without the complications of navigating around brackets and wires. This removability also means no dietary restrictions – patients can continue enjoying all their favorite foods without worrying about damaging their orthodontic appliance.
Superior Oral Hygiene Maintenance
Proper oral hygiene with traditional braces can be challenging, as food particles and plaque easily accumulate around brackets and wires. This difficulty often leads to increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and white spot lesions. Invisible braces solve this problem by allowing patients to remove their aligners for thorough brushing and flossing.
Dental infographics effectively demonstrate proper cleaning techniques for aligners and teeth, showing patients how to maintain optimal oral health throughout treatment. The ability to clean teeth means typically a lower risk of dental complications and better overall oral health outcomes compared to traditional orthodontic treatments.
Predictable and Efficient Treatment Process
Modern invisible brace systems utilize advanced 3D imaging technology and computer modeling to create a precise treatment plan from start to finish. This technology allows dentists and patients to visualize the entire treatment process before it begins, including predicted tooth movements and final results. Dental infographics can illustrate these treatment stages, helping patients understand their journey and maintain motivation.
The precision of invisible brace treatment often results in more predictable outcomes and, in many cases, shorter treatment times than traditional braces. Each set of aligners is designed to make controlled tooth movements, gradually shifting teeth into their ideal positions with minimal discomfort.
Reduced Emergency Visits
Traditional braces are prone to emergencies such as broken brackets, poking wires, or loose bands that require immediate attention. These unexpected visits can be inconvenient and costly. Invisible braces virtually eliminate these emergencies, as there are no metal components to break or become loose. If an aligner is lost or damaged, patients can often continue with their next set of aligners while a replacement is made, minimizing treatment interruption.
Improved Professional and Social Life
For adults in professional settings, invisible braces allow straightening teeth without affecting their professional image. The discrete nature of clear aligners means essential presentations, meetings, or social events don’t have to be postponed due to orthodontic treatment. Dental infographics can effectively communicate this benefit by showing professional individuals confidently wearing their aligners in various settings.
Customized Treatment Plans
Every invisible brace treatment is completely customized to the individual patient’s needs. Advanced scanning technology creates precise digital impressions, eliminating the discomfort of traditional dental molds. This customization ensures optimal fit, comfort, and treatment efficiency, while dental infographics can help patients understand how their specific treatment plan addresses their unique dental concerns.
Long-term Oral Health Benefits
Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of future dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and premature tooth wear. Invisible braces not only improve the appearance of your smile but also contribute to better long-term oral health outcomes. The investment in orthodontic treatment pays dividends in reduced dental problems and associated costs over a lifetime.
Conclusion: Transform Your Smile with Expert Care
The benefits of invisible braces extend beyond simple teeth straightening, offering patients a comprehensive solution that improves oral health and quality of life. From enhanced aesthetics and comfort to improved oral hygiene and predictable results, clear aligners represent the future of orthodontic treatment.
At Carrum Downs Dental, located at Shop T5, 100 Hall Road, Carrum Downs, our experienced team specializes in invisible brace treatments designed to transform your smile discreetly and effectively. We’re committed to providing personalized care and comprehensive treatment planning to ensure optimal results for every patient.
Our clinic is open seven days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM, making it convenient for you to schedule consultations and follow-up appointments that fit your busy lifestyle. Contact Carrum Downs Dental today to discover how invisible braces can transform your smile while maintaining your confidence throughout treatment. Your journey to a perfect smile starts with a simple consultation – let us help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Traditionally, the routine treatment for an infected or injured tooth was extraction. However, as dentistry continued to evolve, dental experts came up with advanced techniques to solve such problems. A root canal is now one of the most effective treatments for an infected or injured tooth. Root canal therapy may weaken the tooth and may require a permanent dental restoration to remain healthy. Therefore, your dentist may recommend a dental crown to reinforce the tooth permanently. Some people choose fillings instead of dental crowns. However, a dental crown is the most preferred option due to several reasons. Read on to find out more.
Root Canal Procedure
First things first, it is vital to know what root canal therapy entails. While undertaking the procedure, your dentist will clean the pulp of the tooth. The pulp is the part of a tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves. When this part is infected or jeopardized in any other way, it needs to be removed before it can cause further damage.
After removing the pulp, the dentist will then have to disinfect the entire place to prevent any chances of reinfection. The tooth is then packed with a special material that covers the tooth entirely. This prevents any infection from entering the tooth.
Why dental crown is necessary after a root canal
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a restorative material primarily that is used when a patient needs implants or bridges. The core purpose of a crown is to strengthen the tooth. When placed on a weak tooth, it can provide it with the necessary strength to continue functioning properly. There are several other reasons why one needs to have a crown after a root canal therapy. Here are some of them:
– It Protects the Tooth from Sensitivity
After root canal treatment, some remaining nerves can become extremely sensitive to heat and cold foods and beverages. This can be so frustrating, especially any time you are taking your meals. A dental crown will help ease, sensitivity.
– Keeps the Tooth Safe from Infection
After root canal therapy, the surface of the tooth is left at a greater risk of infection. To avoid such an occurrence, the dentist uses a root canal to seal the tooth and prevent infection.
– Aesthetic Purposes
A tooth may discolor after root canal therapy and turn grey. A dental crown will provide a natural-looking color that will match the rest of the teeth.
– Very Effective
Most teeth that undergo root canal therapy do so because they have suffered from a cavity. A tooth that has a history of tooth decay should be sealed with dental fillings. Yes, they do provide protection but they are not as effective as a dental crown.
Conclusion
After root canal treatment, you must receive a dental crown as a form of restoration. The tooth is now more vulnerable to infection than it was before and should not be left that way. Visit Carrum Downs Dental Clinic to learn more about dental crowns as well as root canal therapy.
A few decades ago, losing teeth was seen as a natural part of aging. Very few people expected to celebrate their senior lives with a perfect set of natural teeth. Today people are growing old without losing their teeth. However, millions of people across the world lose teeth due to various reasons. It may be due to age or other causes such a physical injury. No matter how one loses their teeth, getting a good restoration alternative is very important. Dentures are among the best tooth restoration appliances preferred by many dentists. Here are some of the reasons why.
– Confidence Level
Confidence is everything you want to achieve your goals. It helps people trust you since you can be able to defend what you believe in. However, if you have no confidence, you will not be able to express yourself, and not many people will have trust in you. Also, a lack of confidence will lower your self-esteem. There is nothing that can take your confidence levels over the roof than having a bright smile. Once your dentist fixes dentures on your gums, you will assume a set of perfect looking teeth. It will help you have a perfect smile that will enable you to face anyone confidently.
– They are Quick to Fix
Most dental procedures can take time to complete. For example, if you are looking to have dental implants, the treatment can take up to a year depending on the number of teeth your dentist is working on. However, this is not the case when it comes to dentures. The dental lab can customize dentures for you in just a few weeks.
– Better Functionality
It can sometimes become difficult to eat certain types of food after installing other forms of tooth restoration. For example, it might be difficult to eat certain type of foods with dental implants within the first few days of having them due to the healing process. One thing is for sure with dentures is that you can eat all your favorite foods as soon as you have them.
– Comfort
Over the years, dental experts have learned how to create a comfortable set of dentures that can fit a patient. It eliminates all the concerns of having the appliance rubbing against the gums and making you feel out of place.
– Easy to Care for
Dentures are very easy to care for. In most cases, dentures are used by seniors. Most of them have different health issues, memory loss, and other responsibilities hence may not have much time to care for their restorative devices. A patient can simply be able to remove them at night and wash them. That is all the care they need.
Bottom Line
Loss of teeth can be a natural part of life and sometimes inevitable due to reasons such as physical trauma. However, you do not have to endure all the agony that comes with losing a tooth or teeth. Visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Clinic, and we will make you a perfect set of dentures that will be sure to brighten your smile.
