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  • Invisalign for Teens: What Parents Need to Know

    Invisalign for Teens: What Parents Need to Know

    Dental misalignment is common not just in teens but also in adults. Traditionally, braces have been used to correct this. Though highly effective, braces have drawbacks, particularly for teenagers.

    But there’s a better option called Invisalign that parents need to know about. This is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth without the usage of metal braces. Below is some nitty-gritty about Invisalign.

    Ideal for Teens with Mild to Moderate Problems

    For teenagers with only mild to moderate crowding or spacing difficulties, Invisalign is a fantastic alternative to braces. However, you should check with your dentist to see if Invisalign is a good option for your teen.

    When considering whether Invisalign is right for your child, there are a few things to consider such as one’s age. This is because our teeth are continually changing as our jaw grows from childhood to teenhood which makes Invisalign best suited for teens and young adults over the age of 13.

    Furthermore, there are several types of Invisalign for teens and the right one can only be chosen after a thorough examination.  

    Aligners Must Be Worn for at Least 20 Hours Each Day

    The overall amount of time your child will have to wear Invisalign aligners will be determined by their dental issues.

    Invisalign aligners are typically used for 12 to 24 months. Simple adjustments could take as little as 6months, while more complicated instances, such as crowded teeth, could exceed 24 months. This timeline is also influenced by your teen’s commitment to wearing their aligners.

    The aligners must be worn for around 22 hours per day for the treatment to be effective. This necessitates a great deal of dedication and self-discipline. While 20 hours per day might do, your teen mustn’t go outside of this range.

    Invisalign Aligners Are Time-Saving

    Even though you’ll need to visit the dentist every six weeks with Invisalign, you’ll spend less time in the dentist’s chair than with traditional braces. For kids and parents who are often on the go, spending less time in the dentist’s office is a good thing.

    This also means less time away from school or work because the aligners can be changed at home without the assistance of a dentist.

    Invisalign Boosts One’s Child’s Confidence

    Your teen may be afraid of being embarrassed at school or missing out on the prime years of their life if they receive braces to straighten their teeth.

    Invisalign aligners, on the other hand, are different. When worn, clear aligners are practically invisible. They have a low-key appearance and a comfy fit. This ensures that your child receives all of the benefits of standard orthodontic therapy while avoiding any disadvantages.

    This gives them more confidence when they’re out with their friends, participating in school activities, and simply smiling when taking selfies.

    More Safety and Convenience

    Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is easily removed. This means your teen can eat or snack on whatever they want without pressuring you to make something different.

    They must, however, brush their teeth after each meal or snack before replacing their Invisalign. Food, particles, and bacteria can easily become stuck in the small crevices between their teeth and the aligner, causing poor dental health if they aren’t attentive. The aligners must also be cleaned with some warm water and a soft brush, do not use toothpaste to avoid scarring the aligners.

    Invisalign also allows your youngster to remove their aligners before engaging in physical activities. This helps to keep orthodontic appliances safe from harm.

    Conclusion

    Invisalign aligners are a good alternative to the traditional braces. They improve your teen’s dental alignment while boosting their confidence and allowing them to do the things they love. Visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Clinic to get your invisalign.

  • Best Ways to Prevent Cavities and Protect Your Teeth

    Best Ways to Prevent Cavities and Protect Your Teeth

    Every aspect of your dental health works together to help ensure that your teeth last for a lifetime. Remarkably, this holds true from your enamel, which is the hardest known biological material, to your saliva which actively fights bacteria and contains minerals that help in repairing the enamel. These well-designed natural defense mechanisms help to prevent tooth cavities. However, they cannot defend against all the bad oral bacteria on their own. Similar to how your immune system cannot prevent you from getting sick all the time. And so, just like how you boost your immune system to protect you against viruses, there are steps you can take to prevent cavities and protect your oral health.

    Here are the best ways to prevent cavities and protect your teeth.

    • Brushing with Fluoride Toothpaste

    Fluoride toothpaste is an effective way of preventing tooth cavities. Making fluoride toothpaste as part of your regular oral care routine can help you maintain healthy and strong teeth. It is important that you brush at least twice a day or ideally after every meal. Therefore, this will mean keeping a toothbrush in your purse, car, or in your desk at work. If you are not sure which toothpaste contains fluoride, you can get a recommendation from your dentist.

    • Chew Sugar-free Gum

    Next time you are visiting the drug store, ask for gum that contains xylitol. Xylitol helps to boost your saliva production and protect your teeth from cavities.

    • Switch to a New Toothbrush Regularly

    Similar to how your kitchen sponge gets gross after using it for a while. Your toothbrush follows a similar concept. The bristles of your toothbrush get worn out and frayed over time, and this makes it hard for them to clean your teeth effectively. Replacing your toothbrush every three months or whenever it starts to look frayed is a good way to make sure that your toothbrush is capable of doing a good job.

    • Floss Your Teeth Daily

    The Australian Dental Association recommends flossing your teeth every day. Most patients do not enjoy flossing their teeth, but it only takes a few minutes. Flossing is one of the best practices that can help in preventing gum disease, tooth decay, and plaque build-up.

    • Avoid Sugary and Sticky Foods

    Sugary foods are a major culprit in tooth decay as sugar is the main source of food for the bacteria that form plaque. Additionally, sticky foods such as dried fruits get stuck between teeth, which can be difficult to clean out. Such foods that are high in sugar and sticky can contribute to cavities between your teeth.

    Conclusion

    By following the above suggestions, you can significantly minimise the risk of developing tooth cavities. And, when your mouth is healthy, you are less likely to need an emergency trip to the dentist. So, if you have a tooth cavity that requires a filling or are in need of professional cleaning, now is the time to schedule an appointment with us at Carrum Downs Dental Clinic.

    We are always looking forward to seeing you and helping you to protect your smile.

  • All you want to know about Dental X-rays?

    All you want to know about Dental X-rays?

    Every dentist’s goal is to offer their patients the highest level of care, from routine dental check-ups to detecting issues and providing education for lifetime oral health. A crucial part of any dentistry program is the use of dental x-rays, which allows dentists to diagnose, prevent and treat oral health problems. Although dental x-rays have been in use for decades, numerous people still worry about the long-term effects x-rays can have on their overall health.

    One of the major concerns that patients have is whether the risk of radiation from x-rays outweighs the benefits. Whereas x-rays do give off minor amounts of radiation, the long-term effects are very minimal. As a matter of fact, dental x-rays emit so little radiation that they are considered safe for children.

    At Carrum Downs Dental Clinic, we always have our patients’ best interests at heart. We would never put you through anything that would cause harm. Dental x-rays are a key part of dentistry practice because they give a complete picture of your dental health, which in turn gives the information that is needed to treat you.

    Here is all you want to know about dental x-rays so that you can feel comfortable making decisions for your oral health.

    When are Dental X-rays Required?   

    Dental x-rays may only be needed every 2-3 years; however, your dentist can make a recommendation based on your dental health. Factors that determine whether you need a dental x-ray include your age, oral health history, risk factors for various conditions, stage of oral development, and whether or not you are exhibiting symptoms of your oral health problems. Here are some of the uses of dental x-rays:

    • Diagnosis of gum and periodontal disease
    • Diagnosis of dental caries
    • Diagnosis of tooth vitality or detection of infections
    • Adjunct to treatment planning
    • Decay under existing fillings and restorations

    Types of Dental X-rays

    There are several types of dental x-rays that are used regularly within an oral care environment. Depending on your personal needs, the dentist will decide which x-ray will be required to assess your dental problems.

    • Intra-Oral X-rays

    These are the most commonly used forms of x-rays, and they involve instant exposure chair side.

    • Orthopantomogram (OPG)

    These are panoramic x-rays that allow a wide view of your mouth. It is considered a great tool for diagnosing gum disease and assessing wisdom teeth.

    • Computed Tomography (CT)

    CT scans are used to plan for endodontics treatment and dental implant placement.

    Bottom Line

    At Carrum Downs Dental Clinic, we are committed to your safety, which is why we are always looking to employ safe and effective technologies. Also, it is highly advisable to let the dentist know if you are pregnant before taking any dental x-rays so that they can provide the relevant safety precautions, including a lead apron. If the x-ray is not an emergency, we will most likely postpone it until delivery.

    Feel free to contact us today to schedule an appointment and enjoy professional dental practices that care for not only your teeth but also your overall personal health.

  • Procedure for Wisdom Tooth Extraction

    Procedure for Wisdom Tooth Extraction

    Wisdom teeth are the third molars on both the upper and lower jaws. They are located at the very back of the mouth, and they are usually the last to emerge. They are called wisdom teeth since they emerge between the ages of 17 and 21.

    Some people keep their wisdom teeth while others choose to have them removed. In some cases, removing wisdom teeth becomes a necessity for others due to several reasons. For example, one can have an impacted wisdom tooth that is causing problems to other teeth in the mouth. In such a case, wisdom teeth removal will be necessary.

    Here is the procedure for wisdom teeth removal

    Oral Exam

    The first step will be an oral exam by your dentist. He will review your dental history as well as do a few scans to determine if you are a good candidate for removal. If you are a good candidate, the dentist will then map out the entire process, including your choice for anaesthesia. If you have any questions about wisdom teeth removal, this is the time to ask. Your dentist will provide you with some detailed instructions that will help you adequately prepare for the procedure.

    Anaesthesia

    During the surgery, your dentist will first apply your preferred anaesthesia. The most popular anaesthesia when it comes to wisdom teeth removal is a combination of local anaesthesia and IV sedation. However, there are other methods available depending on factors such as your medical history, anxiety level as well as personal preference. Your dentist will give you more information about the type of anaesthesia available.

    Surgical Procedure

    After anaesthesia, the surgical process will commence. The dentist will start by making an incision through the gums so that the wisdom teeth can be exposed. The method of extraction will depend on the position of the tooth. It can either be done as a whole or through small segments.

    After the removal of the tooth, you will now be required to rest in the dentist’s office until the anaesthesia wears off. In case the procedure was done using IV sedation, you must have a responsible adult who will take you home. The person must be in a position to monitor you until the sedation wears off.

    After Surgery

    After surgery, the procedure is very important for a quick and safe recovery. The dentist will provide you with a set of instructions that you are supposed to follow during recovery. In most cases, your dentist will advise you not to eat anything for at least the first 24 hours. After that, you can stick to soft foods throughout the recovery process.

    It is vital that the surgical area remains clean to prevent infection. Your dentist will also prescribe some medication to control pain throughout the recovery period.

    Bottom Line

    Wisdom teeth removal is a dental procedure that requires expertise for it to be successful. You can trust Carrum Downs Dental Clinic due to their experienced and well qualified dentist. If you have any issues with your wisdom teeth and you are unsure of whether to extract them or not, visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Group, and we will advise you accordingly. 

  • Five Reasons Why You Should Consider Sedation Dentistry

    Five Reasons Why You Should Consider Sedation Dentistry

    At Carrum Downs Dental Group, we love dentistry, and this is not a surprise since we elected it to be our business. With that said, we understand that not everyone shares our passion for dental work. As a matter of fact, most of our patients, especially kids, dread having to come to our office for an appointment. Everything from a simple dental cleaning to a complex procedure can make patients feel anxious and scared, so if you are one of the many patients who dread visiting the dentist, then you should consider sedation dentistry.

    In this article, we have highlighted five reasons why you should consider sedation dentistry, and when you are done with the list, you might realize that visiting the dentist does not have to be scary as you once believed.

    • No Pain or Anxiety

    For most patients, dental anxiety is related to fear of pain. Therefore, if you opt for sedation dentistry, you will not have to worry about feeling any pain or discomfort. And if your anxiety levels are really high, then your dentist may administer local anesthesia to numb your mouth. You can also choose mild sedatives if you fear injections. Mild sedatives can reduce the fear of needles as well as also numb pain sensations related to injections, while moderate sensation can get rid of injections by taking a pill.

    • Speeds Up the Dental Process

    Sedation dentistry helps you to relax and feel less tense during the procedure. And since you are relaxed, the dentist can start working on you immediately. Therefore, this will help to speed up the process and save on time that would have been spent on trying to ease your nerves. Also, sedation helps to eliminate the possibility of you having to go for a second visit since the dentist has ample time to finish the work at a go.

    • Trigger Management

    Dental offices have numerous triggers that can prompt spiteful emotions. And so, this can make it difficult for most patients to remain calm due to the sounds, smell, and sight of the dental equipment in the office. For this reason, sedation is crucial since it reduces the impact of the triggers.

    • Gag Reflex Control

    Dental check-ups and procedures can be quite uncomfortable if your gag reflex control is sensitive. You may feel the irresistible urge to vomit when anything is placed in your mouth. As a result, this can make simple procedures such as taking dental impressions unbearable. Sedation dentistry such as nitrous oxide, oral sedatives, and intravenous drugs can assist you in relaxing during the procedure.

    • Improves the Quality of Life

    One of the worst things about getting nervous about your dental appointment is that it affects your quality of life days before the appointment. This is particularly true for patients awaiting major treatments or for those who have severe dental anxiety. By choosing sedation dentistry, you already know that the pain will be dealt with.

    Bottom Line

    Feel free to contact us at Carrum Downs Dental Group for different dental procedures. We use different sedatives depending on the client’s preference. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about pain or discomfort.

  • Everyday Tips for Healthy Gums

    Everyday Tips for Healthy Gums

    Oral health is vital when it comes to a healthy lifestyle. Whilst we all know that we should take proper care of our teeth every day, keeping your gums healthy is also one of the best ways to achieve a healthy smile. Healthy gums protect your teeth and are fundamental for a healthy smile. In case your gums get infected or inflamed from bacteria-causing tartar and plaque, then it can result in major oral issues. Periodontitis, gingivitis, and gum disease can all lead to an increased risk of other serious health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. It can also lead to premature or underweight infants for pregnant women.

    Read on to learn more about the everyday tips for healthy gums.

    • Use a therapeutic mouthwash

    According to the Australian Dental Association, therapeutic mouthwash can help clean out plaque, reduce or prevent gingivitis, decrease the speed that tartar forms, or a combination of these benefits. Additionally, it helps to remove food remains that are stuck in your mouth. However, it’s vital to know that you cannot substitute it for brushing or flossing. Always look for the ADA seal before purchasing a mouthwash, as this means that it has been deemed safe and effective.

    • Brush your Teeth

    Maintaining proper dental hygiene is a good way to prevent gum disease and maintain healthy teeth. It is recommended that you brush at least twice every day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Do not forget to scrub your tongue, too, since it harbors bacteria. You may consider purchasing a battery-powered or an electric toothbrush as these can help reduce plaque more than manual brushing.

    Always replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, irrespective of if you are using an electric toothbrush or the manual one,

    • Avoid Smoking

    Smoking tobacco or using it in any other form makes a person more prone to gum disease. It tends to weaken the immune system. Therefore, it is best if you can shun away from the habit and reduce the risk of developing gum disease.

    • Examine Inside your Mouth Regularly at Home

    While regular visits to the dentists are an excellent preventive measure, oral problems can develop in between the months of visits. Therefore, for you to avoid major issues, always examine the inside of your mouth every day as you brush. Ensure that you check your gums and teeth for anything that looks unusual.

    • Avoid Sugary Drinks and Foods

    Plaque loves to feed on sugar and uses it to produce cavity-causing acid. It is common to feel plaque on your teeth after consuming sugary foods or drinks. It is vital to check labels before buying foods in the store as there are some foods that we may think are healthy but contain a lot of sugar.

    Bottom Line

    Our dentists at Carrum Downs Dental Group would want to help you maintain healthy gums and teeth. That is why we offer oral examinations, teeth cleanings, and other preventative dentistry to our patients. Schedule an appointment with us today!

  • Are dental implants safe for your health?

    Are dental implants safe for your health?

    Losing a tooth or teeth due to various reasons such as dental trauma, decay, and illness may result in many problems if not replaced. Gaps due to tooth loss may cause adjacent teeth to shift, deform facial structure or create alignment problems. It can also lead to an increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

    Therefore, it is important to consider a tooth replacement option as soon as possible. One of the most popular methods is the dental implant. However, a majority of people wonder how safe is the procedure. Read on to find out.

    Are Dental Implants Safe?

    The simple answer to this question is yes; dental implants are completely safe. The procedure has been done for more than 30 years, and all through it has proved to be very safe.

    It is vital for the patient to be in good health before undertaking the procedure. You will not qualify for dental implants if you have underlying issues such as gum disease. You will need to treat and manage the underlying condition before your dentist can allow you to undergo a dental implant procedure.

    According to studies, a dental implant is considered to be 95% successful. With proper dental care, it can last up to 10 years.

    Possible Complications from Dental Implants

    Just like any other procedure, the risk of complication is always there, irrespective of how negligible it might be. Here are some of the risks that might arise:

    • Nerve Damage

    The dentist can accidentally damage the nerve. Implants can come too close to the nerve and thus cause some damage. This complication will cause some pain, tingling, or numbness. Removing the implant may solve the problem. You might want to discuss with your dentist other replacement options after this complication.

    • Infection

    Infection is another complication that might arise. The surgical site might become inflamed, causing some pain or even fever. Infections tend to occur after the surgery. Therefore, it is important you keep the area clean and follow the post-surgery instructions. Be sure to contact your dentist immediately if you notice any signs of infections.

    • Loose Implants

    This is one of the most common complications that might occur after a dental implant. There are several reasons why this might occur. One, the jaw bone might not be strong enough to hold the implant in position. It might be due to aging or bone loss. Other factors that might contribute to loose implant include gum disease, smoking, and poor oral hygiene.

    • Bleeding

    In some instances, the procedure may result in chronic bleeding. In such cases, the oral surgeon needs to intervene and employ measures that will stop the bleeding and keep the implant in place at the same time.

    Bottom Line

    Overall, a dental implant is a very safe procedure, especially when done by a qualified and experienced dentist. At Carrum Downs Dental Group, we perform such procedures in a sterile and safe environment. Our dentist in Carrum Downs is well trained and knows how to make a dental implant procedure safe and successful.

    Related Posts

    Dental Implants Procedure
    Tooth Replacement Options: Dental Implants, Bridges and Dentures

  • Different types of Dental Crown

    Different types of Dental Crown

    Over time your teeth can get damaged due to various reasons such as injuries, tooth decay, or wear and tear as you age. They can also lose their size and shape. There are various options you can choose from to restore your bright smile. One of these options is a dental crown.

    Dental crowns are caps shaped like a tooth that are placed over your damaged tooth. They are used to cover, restore strength and protect the shape of your teeth when dental fillings do not solve the problem. Usually, dental crowns do not require special care over time apart from regular good oral hygiene. Dental crowns come in several different types that vary depending on cost, procedures, materials, and patient’s needs. Here are the main types of crowns used in dentistry.

    • Gold Crowns

    Gold crowns are made of a combination of copper and other metals such as chromium and nickel. The main advantage of gold crowns is their durability and strength. A gold crown may be recommended for a back restoration or depending on the patient’s needs and preference. On the other hand, gold crowns are less popular today due to their colour and aesthetics.

    • All-Ceramic or All Porcelain Crowns

    These type of crowns provides the best natural colour match compared to any other type. They are also a perfect option if you have any metal allergies. Conversely, they are not as strong as a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown. Additionally, they tend to wear down the teeth opposite them a little more than resin or metal crowns. On the good side, all-ceramic crowns are a good option for front teeth.

    • Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns

    Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are the most widely used type of dental crowns. They offer both strengths due to their metal structure and aesthetics due to the porcelain cap. The main advantages of porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are the great aesthetics, and durability and they are less costly than all-porcelain crowns.

    • Stainless Steel Crowns

    Stainless steel crowns are most suitable for a child who is in need of a dental crown for a primary tooth. In most cases, adults use stainless steel crowns as a temporary option. Temporary dental crowns are required between the tooth preparation appointment and permanent crown placement appointment to protect the tooth structure from exposure.

    • All-Resin Crowns

    crowns made out of resin are generally cost-effective compared to other types of crowns. They are fabricated from a dental composite resin and can be colour-blended to match the surrounding teeth. Also, they require minimal tooth preparation. However, they wear off over time and are more likely to break than porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.

    • Base Metal Alloy Crowns

    Base metal alloy crowns are made of less than 25% of noble metals such as platinum, silver, gold, and palladium. They are mostly made of nickel and chromium, thus giving them strong bite strength.

    Bottom Line

    Each of these different types of dental crowns offers a slightly different approach to restoring damaged and decayed teeth. Some materials may work better compared to others for certain cases; therefore, scheduling an appointment with us at Carrum Downs Dental Group is the best way to determine which type of dental crown is best suited for your needs. Contact us today to book an appointment.

  • How does dental health affect your overall health?

    How does dental health affect your overall health?

    We all know that the risk of not brushing, flossing, and maintaining proper dental hygiene measures is cavities and tooth decay. However, a majority of people are not aware that the mouth can act as the entry point of harmful bacteria that can lead to other overall health problems. Therefore, do not underestimate your dentist’s advice when it comes to oral health if you want to have great overall health.

    This article discusses how oral health can affect your overall health.

    What Connection Does Oral Health have with Overall Health?

    Oral health acts as the window to the rest of the body. It can give indications that something is not right in other body systems rather than the mouth. For example, lesions in the mouth can indicate that someone has an HIV infection. Bleeding gums may indicate a blood disorder.

    On the other hand, failure to maintain proper oral health may cause complications to the overall health. As much as most bacteria in our mouth are good and help with digestion, some bacteria are harmful and can cause various diseases if neglected. These harmful bacteria can get their way into the bloodstream from the mouth. This happens if you have severe cavities.

    Overall Health Conditions Linked to Oral Health

    • Cardiovascular Disease

    Poor oral hygiene can put you at risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Gum disease causing bacteria can enter the bloodstream blocking the arteries that transport blood in and out of the heart. Over time, the plaque can harden into the arteries causing a life-threatening condition known as atherosclerosis.

    • Respiratory Infections

    The bacteria in the mouth causing swollen gums can get into the bloodstream and all the way to the lungs. Once in the lungs, it can cause various respiratory diseases such as pneumonia and bronchitis.

    • Diabetes

    Periodontal disease can make diabetes more challenging to manage. Gum disease can make blood sugars difficult to stabilize. If you are suffering from diabetes, it is paramount that you take excellent care of your oral hygiene. Also, since gum disease makes it difficult to control blood sugars, a person suffering from gum disease increases their risk of getting diabetes.

    • Pregnancy Complications

    While a woman is pregnant, changes in body hormones can increase the risk of infections. Therefore, it is vital that pregnant women practice good oral hygiene and visit their dentist regularly. Infections from the mouth can increase the risk of pregnancy complications.

    Issues with oral health such as gum disease can lead to premature or underweight infants.

    • Kidney Disease

    Research has shown a strong connection between kidney disease and periodontal disease. Kidney disease can impact your blood pressure, bones as well as heart. Therefore, it is paramount to take proper care of your oral health to avoid such complications.

    Conclusion

    There you have it; some of the overall health complications are linked to oral health. Your oral health does not only affect your teeth; it also affects your overall body. Therefore, you must practice proper oral hygiene measures. Visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Group for professional cleaning and check-up.

  • Top 5 things you need to know about Invisalign

    Top 5 things you need to know about Invisalign

    A majority of people out there have crooked or misaligned teeth. This could be a major concern for many since it lowers your confidence and may also result in a myriad of dental health complications. Traditionally, there was a simple solution for this problem known as braces. Now there is a game-changer known as Invisalign.

    Just like braces, Invisalign is an easy solution to straighten your teeth. The difference is that this method uses clear plastic retainers instead of metal brackets, as in the case with braces. This comes as a great advantage since many people felt embarrassed having to walk around with conspicuous metal braces in their mouths.

    Here are 5 things you need to know about metal braces.

    1. You will Need to Keep Your Invisalign as Much As Possible

    One simple rule you need to know about aligners is that you will need to keep them in your mouth as much as possible. This is the only and best way to see results as fast as possible. Try and have them on for at least 22 hours a day. You can remove them while eating, brushing, or flossing but make sure you have them on soon after.

    2. You Do Not Have to Change Your Diet

    With Invisalign, you will not have to change what you eat or drink. However, you will find yourself eating less since you will have to remove your aligners while eating. Eating or drinking especially coloured drinks, will stain the aligners and therefore will not serve the purpose.

    This also comes with habits such as smoking. The best thing is to try and quit smoking before you start your alignment treatment. This will not only help you better your overall health but will also come in handy in improving your dental health.

    3. Caring for Your Aligners

    You will need to take good care of your aligners so that they can best serve you when it comes to straightening your teeth. Here are some of the things you will need to consider:

    • Use clean water to clean them properly
    • Make sure you rinse them every other time you remove them from the mouth
    • Remove them during meals
    • Follow the guide provided by the dentist

    As much as these guidelines may seem as much, you will soon be able to incorporate them into your daily routine. You will feel that the hustle is worth it once you start seeing your beautiful smile improving.

    4. The Length of the Treatment Varies with Each Patient

    Before starting the treatment, you will probably want to know how long the treatment is going to take. On average, it takes a year to start experiencing some results. However, this varies from patient to patient. It depends on the state of your teeth and the amount of work to be done.

    5. There is no Age Limit

    Invisalign treatment is suitable for everyone irrespective of their age. It is also safe for pregnant women. Your dentist will assess your teeth and determine if you are a good candidate for the treatment.

    Bottom Line

    Invisalign treatment comes with lots of benefits compared to traditional metal braces. It is a preferred method by a majority of people today. Therefore, if you are looking forward to having Invisalign treatment, be sure to contact us at Carrum Downs Dental Group for quality dental services.

  • Types of Sedation Dentistry and How It Can Help You

    Types of Sedation Dentistry and How It Can Help You

    Going to your dentist can cause a phobia to some people, but that shouldn’t be the case if oral sedation is used. At Carrum Downs Dental Clinic, you can ask to get sedation dentistry with the option of getting either IV sedation, oral sedation, or laughing gas. Prior to the procedure, an experienced dentist will discuss the procedure and answer any questions and concerns you might have regarding the process.

    What is Sedation Dentistry?

    Sedation dentistry relies on administering a sedative to keep the patient relaxed. The patient can thus relax in the dentist’s chair, making the entire procedure less cumbersome.

    Levels of Sedation Dentistry

    • Minimal sedation: the patient is awake but relaxed without feeling the procedure
    • Moderate sedation: The patient is conscious but may slur when speaking
    • Deep sedation: the patient is on the edge of consciousness, but they can still be awakened when needed
    • General anesthesia: this makes the patient completely unconscious during the procedure

    Types of Sedation Dentistry

    Inhaled minimal sedation

    Happy gas eases patients during dental procures, and it’s often inhaled to provide first-acting but minimal sedation. To administer the sedative, your dentist will place a mask over your nose that supplies a combination of oxygen and nitrous oxide.

    The dentist can control how much gas you receive, and it wears off quickly after the mask is taken off. Laughing gas has minimal effect on your functions, and it’s the only form of sedation where you are allowed to drive after the procedure.

    Oral sedation

    Oral sedation dentistry relies on administering a pill that decreases brain activity in parts that control anxiety and fear. The most common oral sedatives used are benzodiazepine varieties such as Xanax, Valium, and Halcion. Oral sedation kicks in one hour after swallowing the pill, and it makes you feel relaxed.

    The dentist can also up your dose, which will cause amnesia if you have dental phobia and don’t want to have memories of the procedure. While oral sedation is generally safe, keep in mind that the dentist cannot easily change the sedation level; instead, you will have to wait for your body to metabolize for the effect to kick in.

    IV sedation

    IV sedation dentistry is mainly reserved for dental cases that require deep sedation and anesthesia. You will receive the sedative drug via an IV line to your vein. This form of sedation dentistry works more quickly, and the dentist can continually adjust the sedation level.

    Bottom Line

    Sedation dentistry is recommended for people with dental anxiety or a genuine fear keeping them from going to a dentist. Our child dentist, Carrum Downs Dental Clinic, provides dental sedation to children who are too terrified to cooperate during a dental visit.

    Dentists can also offer sedation to anyone with a bad gag reflex or very sensitive teeth and low pain thresholds. Your dentist can also recommend sedation dentistry if you are undergoing a lengthy dental procedure with a substantial amount of work to be done.

  • Can Gum Disease Cause Bad Breath

    Can Gum Disease Cause Bad Breath

    Bad breath, also medically known as halitosis, is a very common oral problem, and there are many different causes. In most cases, persistent bad breath is caused by the smelly gases emitted by the bacteria that live in your teeth, tongue, and gums. Additionally, food remains that get stuck between the teeth and on the tongue will rot and result in an unpleasant smell.

    Also, strong foods such as onions, garlic, and coffee can add to the problem. Therefore, it is important to brush and floss your teeth regularly and in the correct way. This will help to keep your breath fresh and clean.

    The bacteria on your gums and teeth can also lead to gum disease and tooth decay. One of the alarming signs of gum disease is persistent bad breath or having a bad taste in your mouth. Visiting the dental office regularly will enable the dentist to spot such problems and treat them before they escalate. The earlier the oral issues are detected, the more effective the treatment will be.

    With that said, here are other causes of bad breath.

    Poor Oral Hygiene

    If you fail to brush and floss daily, food debris lingers in your mouth and teeth, thus causing bad breath. A colourless, sticky film of bacteria forms on your teeth, and if not brushed away, it can irritate your gums, thereby forming pockets between your gums and teeth. Also, your tongue can trap bacteria that produce bad odour. In addition, dentures that do not fit perfectly and are not cleaned properly can harbour odour-causing bacteria.

    Dry Mouth

    Saliva goes a long way in maintaining proper oral health and preventing bad breath. It washes and removes food leftovers between your teeth, helps to break down food when you eat, and provides enzymes that help to prevent oral infections and cavities. Therefore, if you do not have enough saliva, then you probably have halitosis.

    Tobacco Products

    Smoking or chewing tobacco products can lead to bad breath. Also, it can discolour your teeth and may put you at a higher risk of developing gum disease. Avoid smoking for a healthier mouth, fresher breath, and brighter teeth.

    Throat, Nose, and Mouth Conditions

    Bad breath can sometimes be a result of small stones that form in the tonsils and are covered with bacteria that produce an unpleasant smell. Chronic inflammation or infections in the throat, nose, or sinuses can lead to postnasal drip that can also cause bad breath.

    Medication

    Certain drugs can reduce the saliva in your mouth and, therefore, causing bad breath. Other medications can produce odour as they break down and release chemicals in the breath.

    Bottom Line

    If you notice that your breath has been less fresh lately, start by following a proper oral health routine- brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day. Other things such as chewing sugarless gum, cutting back on caffeine, and drinking lots of water may also help to increase your saliva flow and boost the freshness of your breath.

    However, if the bad breath is still persistent, feel free to visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Group. With proper examination and deep cleaning, we will help you to rule out any oral health problems that may be behind your bad breath and recommend ways on how to take care of it.