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Oral Care Archives - Page 4 of 4 -

Category: Oral Care

  • Tips To Keep Good Dental Hygiene As You Get Older

    Tips To Keep Good Dental Hygiene As You Get Older

    Tips to keep good dental hygiene as you get older

    As you get old, it becomes more important for you to take proper care of your oral health. One common misconception as you age is that losing your teeth is inevitable. However, this is not true. If you do take proper care of your dental health and visit your dentist regularly, your teeth can last you a lifetime. Your mouth changes as you get old. The nerves in your teeth become smaller, thus making your teeth less sensitive to cavities and other oral issues. If you skip your routine dental exams, this may lead to these oral problems not being treated until it is too late. Therefore, if you want to stay healthy, feel good about yourself and look great throughout your life, you might be surprised at the difference a healthy mouth can make. Below are some simple tips on how to keep good dental hygiene as you get old.

    – Brush your Teeth Gently and often

    Most people tend to overlook their overall health and wellness as they age since they no longer have to go to work daily or shuffle the kids around all the time. However, in reality, one should do the opposite, especially when it comes to oral health. As one becomes older, the teeth and gums certainly have more wear and tear than the younger years. Therefore, it is important to brush gently and thoroughly and not to over brush.

    – Clean your Dentures Daily

    Oral routine for those wearing dentures may be a little different from those who don’t, but still, good oral hygiene is still a priority. Always ensure that you follow your dentist’s instructions on how to keep your dentures and the rest of your mouth clean.

    – Quit Smoking

    Use of tobacco or its products can increase the risk of damaging your teeth and oral tissues by reducing the oxygen amount in your blood and lowering your immune system. Smokers are at high risk of acquiring gum disease, so when combined with the usual aging process, it can be quite a task to maintain proper oral hygiene.

    – Stay Hydrated

    The issue of having a dry mouth is in no way connected with age. However, with so many regular medications can increase the risk of having a dry mouth. A dry mouth can affect the fitting of dentures and increase risks of infections. Therefore, it is important to keep your mouth hydrated at all times.

    – Visit your Dentist Regularly

    Visiting your dentist regularly will help you identify any potential oral problem at its earliest stage. Your dentist may also give you a professional deep tooth cleaning, which helps to get to all the hard to reach places leaving your teeth and gums clean.

    Bottom Line:

    So, whether it has been a while since you last visited your dentist or have never committed to taking proper care of your teeth, now is the time to start making your oral hygiene a priority. At Carrums Downs Dental Clinic we love taking care of patients of all ages, and our hearts have a special place for the old age. Feel free to call or book an appointment with us today.

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  • All About Wisdom Teeth

    All About Wisdom Teeth

    Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the most talked-about teeth in dentistry. These late-arriving molars have earned their reputation for causing problems, but there’s much more to understand about these fascinating teeth. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or curious about what to expect, this comprehensive guide will help you know everything about wisdom teeth removal.

    What Are Wisdom Teeth?

    What are wisdom teeth, read this para to know more…

    Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that typically emerge in the back corners of your mouth. Most people develop four wisdom teeth – two on the top and two on the bottom. These teeth earned their name because they usually appear in the late teens or early twenties, traditionally associated with gaining wisdom and maturity.

    From an evolutionary perspective, wisdom teeth were essential for our ancestors, who had larger jaws and needed extra grinding power to process tough, raw foods. However, as human diets evolved and jaw sizes decreased over thousands of years, these teeth often became more problematic than helpful.

    When do wisdom teeth come in?

    The timing of wisdom tooth eruption varies significantly from person to person. So, when do wisdom teeth come in? In most people, their wisdom teeth come in between the ages of 17 and 25, though some may experience an earlier or later eruption. Sometimes, wisdom teeth may never fully emerge, remaining wholly or partially impacted beneath the gum line.

    The eruption process can take several months or even years to complete. During this time, you might experience discomfort followed by relief as the teeth gradually work through the gums.

    Common Problems with Wisdom Teeth

    1. Impaction: The most common issue with wisdom teeth is impaction, which occurs when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for the teeth to emerge properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can be wholly or partially trapped beneath the gum tissue or jawbone. This can lead to pain, swelling, and an increased risk of infection.
    2. Many worry that emerging wisdom teeth will crowd their existing teeth, undoing years of orthodontic work. While wisdom teeth can sometimes contribute to crowding, research suggests they’re rarely the sole cause of dental crowding.
    3. Infection and Gum Disease: Partially erupted wisdom teeth create pockets where bacteria can accumulate, leading to pericoronitis. This infection of the gum tissue around the tooth can cause significant pain, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth.
    4. Decay and Damage: Because wisdom teeth are located at the very back of the mouth, they’re notoriously tricky to clean properly. This makes them more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, poorly positioned wisdom teeth can damage adjacent teeth.

    Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

    Not everyone experiences problems with their wisdom teeth, but it’s essential to recognize the warning signs that indicate potential issues:

    • Persistent pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth
    • Swelling and tenderness in the gums around the emerging tooth
    • Difficulty opening your mouth fully
    • Bad breath or unpleasant taste that doesn’t improve with brushing
    • Jaw stiffness or pain while chewing
    • Headaches that seem to originate from the jaw area
    • Visible signs of infection, such as redness or pus around the gum line

    Treatment Options

    Monitoring: If your wisdom teeth are healthy, properly positioned, and not causing problems, your dentist may recommend simply monitoring them with regular check-ups and X-rays. Some people keep their wisdom teeth throughout their lives without complications.

    Wisdom teeth extraction: When wisdom teeth cause problems or are likely to cause future issues, wisdom teeth extraction is often the best solution. Modern extraction techniques have made this procedure much more comfortable than in the past. Your dentist will determine whether a simple extraction or surgical removal is necessary based on the tooth’s position and development.

    Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, warm salt water rinses, and cold compresses can relieve temporary discomfort during wisdom tooth eruption. However, persistent pain should always be evaluated by a dental professional.

    Caring for Your Wisdom Teeth

    If you’re keeping your wisdom teeth, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial:

    • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around emerging teeth gently
    • Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
    • Floss carefully around wisdom teeth, using floss threaders if necessary
    • Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support healing
    • Avoid hard or sticky foods that could irritate the area

    The Importance of Professional Evaluation

    Regular dental check-ups and X-rays are essential for monitoring wisdom tooth development. Your dentist can identify potential problems before they become painful or cause complications. Early intervention often leads to easier treatment and better outcomes.

    Every person’s situation is unique, and what works for one individual may not be appropriate for another. A professional evaluation considers your jaw size, tooth positioning, oral health history, and overall dental health to determine the best course of action.

    Trust Your Wisdom Teeth Care to the Experts

    Understanding your wisdom teeth is the first step toward maintaining optimal oral health. Professional guidance is invaluable if you’re experiencing discomfort or want to stay proactive about your dental care.

    At Carrum Downs Dental, located at Shop T5, 100 Hall Road, Carrum Downs, our experienced team provides comprehensive wisdom tooth evaluation and treatment. We’re committed to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible, using the latest techniques and technology to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.

    Don’t let wisdom tooth concerns keep you up at night. Our clinic is open seven days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM, making it convenient to schedule an appointment that fits your busy lifestyle. Contact Carrum Downs Dental today to discuss your wisdom teeth removal and take control of your oral health journey.

    Related Post –

    Facts you need to know about Wisdom Tooth Extraction

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  • Tips for Natural Dental Health Care : Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy

    Tips for Natural Dental Health Care : Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy

    Tips for Natural Dental Health Care – Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy

    Poor dental care can spell doom for your gums and teeth. According to the Australian Dental Association, advanced gum disease or severe periodontitis affects as many as 47 percents of individuals over 30 years in Australia. Gingivitis or inflammation of the gums can cause your once healthy teeth and gums to swell and even bleed. If the swelling and bleeding is left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis. Your gums will start developing pockets and your teeth will pull away from the gums. Plaque will build-up and spread and the connective tissues or bones may break down due to the toxins and the immune response from your body. As a result, you may end up losing your teeth altogether. So, here are dental tips to prevent teeth and gum problems and how to keep them healthy.

    – Brush your teeth twice a day

    Brushing your teeth after every meal helps to get rid of food debris and plaque that has been trapped between your gums and teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush that can comfortably fit in your mouth. You may also consider using an electric or a battery-powered toothbrush. An electric toothbrush is more efficient than a manual one because it cleans out more plaque and reduces gingivitis. Always swap your toothbrush heads every three months or sooner in case your bristles start to fray.

    – Use a tongue scraper

    It is not just your teeth and gums that need to be cleaned and looked after; but also your tongue. The dentists recommend that you clean your tongue twice every day because it helps in removing bacteria, reduces bad breath and improves your taste buds.

    – Always floss

    Most people tend to skip flossing because they think brushing their teeth is enough. But this is a very big misconception that should be discredited immediately. Brushing cannot remove food remains and plaque that have built up on the sides of the backmost molars, and it certainly cannot clean the small gaps between your teeth. With flossing, all these can be done efficiently and your teeth will be cleaned from the front to the back.

    – Minimize the intake of foods and drinks that can stain your teeth

    Certain foods and drinks such as blueberries, coffee,and wine are most likely to discolour your teeth. Ensure that every time you eat or drink something that may lead to teeth discolouration, you thoroughly rinse out your mouth with water or even antiseptic mouthwash. It is also recommended that you munch on fruits and veggies that are good for your teeth and gums such as carrots, celery, and apples.

    Bottom Line

    By following these dental tips, you can naturally keep your teeth and gums healthy and reduce any extra costs of dental care. However, if you need any help of a dental professional, feel free to schedule an appointment or contact us today at Carrum Downs Dental Clinic and our dentists will be so glad to help.

  • How to Take Care of Your Gums

    How to Take Care of Your Gums

    How to Take Care of Your Gums

    Gum care is something most people take for granted. When it comes to oral hygiene, most people focus more on their teeth by keeping them well-aligned, white, bright and cavity-free. A majority of people are always willing to spend atop dollar just to achieve a perfect smile. However, what most people don’t know is that how perfect their teeth look does not necessarily determine how healthy they are.

    Proper oral health begins with healthy gums. Since gum disease is normally pain-free especially during its early stages, most people will not notice anything is wrong with their gums till it’s too late. Therefore, it is important to be vigilant when it comes to your gum health. Regular dental visits can ensure that you never have to worry about gum diseases in future. Also, there are other several measures you can take to keep your gums healthy. Here are some of them:

    Floss regularly

    Flossing your teeth regularly helps in removing plaque and any food debris that has stuck in between your teeth. Any foreign material that has lodged between your teeth will encourage bacteria growth. Thiswill, in turn, increase the risks of gum inflammation and disease.

    Brush carefully
    How an individual brush his or her teeth is essential for the health of the gums. When a person brushes too aggressively or uses a hard toothbrush, it can cause damage to the gums and result in gum recession. Instead, it’s important to brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush for 2-3 minutes.

    Gum massage

    Body massage is very effective when it comes to getting blood to flow effectively. The same logic appliesto the gums as well. Simply dip one of your finger in some peppermint or eucalyptus tonic oil and gently massage your gums in a circular motion.

    Use fluoride toothpaste

    There are many toothpaste options in the market claiming to reduce or prevent gum disease, whiten your teeth, freshen your breath and many other lofty promises. However, if it is healthy gums you are looking for, ensure that you choose one that contains fluoride. If you are unsure, you can have your dentist recommend a good brand for you.

    Do not smoke

    Smoking makes your immune system weak. This makes it harder for your body to fight off infections that cause gum disease. Smoking also prevents regeneration of the damaged gum tissues, not mentioning the fact that it discolours your teeth and gives you bad breath.

    Brushing your teeth at least twice a day

    It is very important that you brush your teeth at least twice daily to remove food remains stuck between your gums and teeth. While you are at it, do not forget to scrub your tongue to ensure that bacteria do not build up in that area. There are many toothbrushes with built-in tongue cleaners you, therefore, don’t have to buy a separate tongue cleaner.

    Use mouthwash

    Since gum disease is associated with high levels of harmful bacteria in your mouth, a good mouthwash can be very useful as a preventative measure. Mouthwash will minimise the levels of bacteria in your mouth, reduce plaque and help to remove any food stuck between your teeth after a meal.

    Bottom Line

    Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease and other oral problems.To keep your gums and teeth strong and healthy as you age, visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Group. We will provide you with a wide range of services that are designed to take care of your teeth and gums as well as diagnose and treat various dental problems.

  • 7 Steps to Brushing Your Teeth with Braces on

    7 Steps to Brushing Your Teeth with Braces on

    Receiving braces marks an exciting milestone on your journey to a perfect smile, though it brings additional responsibilities for preserving optimal oral health. Learning how to brush teeth with braces properly becomes even more critical when you have braces, as food particles and plaque can easily become trapped around brackets, wires, and bands. Without proper care, this can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even permanent staining around your braces.

    The good news is that with the proper technique and extra time, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. Follow these seven steps to ensure your smile stays bright and healthy while your braces work magic.

    Step 1: Rinse Before You Begin

    Begin your dental hygiene with braces routine by thoroughly rinsing your mouth with water before you grab your toothbrush. This initial rinse helps dislodge loose food particles and debris that may be stuck around your braces. Swish the water vigorously around your mouth for about 30 seconds, particularly in areas around brackets and wires. This preliminary step makes the brushing process more effective by removing the larger particles that could interfere with your toothbrush’s ability to clean properly.

    Step 2: Choose the Right Tools

    Having the proper equipment makes all the difference when brushing with braces. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head that can easily maneuver around your brackets and wires. An electric toothbrush can be particularly effective, as the oscillating motion helps remove plaque more efficiently than manual brushing. Additionally, consider using a specialized orthodontic toothbrush, which features V-shaped bristles explicitly designed for cleaning around braces. Always include fluoride toothpaste in your routine to strengthen teeth and guard against cavity formation.

    Step 3: Position Your Toothbrush at the Right Angle

    Proper toothbrush positioning is crucial for effective cleaning. Position your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gum line, ensuring the bristles are directed toward your gums. This angle allows the bristles to clean the tooth surface and the area where your teeth meet your gums. For areas surrounding your brackets, tilt the brush to allow bristles to reach beneath the wires and around each bracket. You may need to adjust the angle frequently as you move around your mouth to ensure thorough cleaning.

    Step 4: Use Gentle, Systematic Brushing Motions

    Begin brushing with gentle, circular motions rather than aggressive back-and-forth scrubbing. Start with the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, working systematically from one side of your mouth to the other. Dedicate additional time to each bracket, thoroughly cleaning above, below, and surrounding every component. Work methodically and patiently, allowing each tooth and bracket section approximately 10 seconds of focused cleaning. The key is to be thorough rather than rushed — taking your time ensures you don’t miss any spots where plaque and bacteria can accumulate.

    Step 5: Clean All Tooth Surfaces Thoroughly

    After cleaning the outer surfaces, move to the inner surfaces of your teeth, using the same gentle circular motions. These areas are often neglected but are just as essential for maintaining oral health. Focus particularly on the inner surfaces of your bottom front teeth, which tend to collect plaque rapidly. Then, address the chewing surfaces of your back teeth with gentle back-and-forth movements. Don’t forget to brush your tongue gently to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

    Step 6: Focus on Problem Areas

    Certain areas require extra attention when you have braces. The spaces between your brackets and gum line are particularly prone to plaque buildup, so spend additional time in these areas. The areas around bands (if you have them) and behind your wires also need special care. If you notice any bleeding while brushing these areas, don’t stop — gentle, consistent cleaning will help improve your gum health. Should bleeding continue or become worse, reach out to your orthodontist or dental professional.

    Step 7: Complete Your Routine with Additional Tools

    After thorough brushing, enhance your cleaning routine with specialized tools designed for braces. Use an interdental brush or a water flosser to clean between teeth and around brackets where your regular toothbrush can’t reach effectively. Thread floss carefully under your wires using a floss threader or orthodontic floss with a stiff end that makes threading easier. Complete your routine with an antimicrobial rinse to eliminate bacteria and reduce gum inflammation. This comprehensive approach ensures you’ve addressed all the nooks and crannies where problems can develop.

    Additional Tips for Success

    Remember that brushing with braces takes longer than usual — plan for at least three to four minutes per session. Make sure to brush following each meal and snack to avoid food particles remaining around your orthodontic appliances. Carry a travel toothbrush and toothpaste when you’re away from home. Regular dental checkups become even more important during orthodontic treatment, so don’t skip your scheduled cleanings and examinations.

    Maintain Your Beautiful Smile at Carrum Downs Dental

    Following these seven steps consistently will help ensure that when your braces come off, you’ll reveal not just straight teeth, but healthy, cavity-free teeth that will last a lifetime. Proper oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is an investment in your long-term dental health.

    At Carrum Downs Dental, located at Shop T5, 100 Hall Road, Carrum Downs, our experienced team supports you throughout your orthodontic journey. We understand the unique challenges of maintaining oral health with braces and provide comprehensive care to help you achieve optimal results. Our clinic is open seven days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM, making it convenient for you to schedule regular checkups and cleanings that fit your busy schedule. Reach out to us today to keep your smile healthy and radiant during your orthodontic journey.

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