Metal fillings, commonly known as amalgam fillings, are dental restorations composed of metallic elements and mercury. They were developed many years ago with the intent of providing a durable, cost-effective solution for cavity repair. At the time, however, the potential disadvantages and negative health effects of these fillings were not fully understood.
How Amalgam Fillings May Affect Your Teeth
One significant concern is that amalgam fillings can lead to cracks in teeth, which may ultimately result in nerve damage or catastrophic features. Such damage often necessitates complex dental treatment, or in severe cases, tooth extraction. Additionally, amalgam fillings do not adhere well to tooth structure, which can lead to leaks that allow bacteria to invade deeper parts of the tooth.
Another drawback is the aesthetic impact; amalgam fillings can heavily discolour teeth due to the corrosion of the metals over time. In some instances, this discolouration may even transfer to the surrounding soft tissues, leaving dark marks on the gums and inner cheeks, which should ideally remain pink and healthy.
The potential for mercury and other metal elements to leach from amalgam fillings is a contentious issue. While some research suggests this is a concern, other studies indicate that these materials remain stable. This divergence in findings means that opinions among dental professionals can very significantly.
Prioritise Prevention: Consult Your Dentist About Amalgam Fillings
As always, prevention is the best approach. If you have amalgam fillings and are worried about their effects, seeking advice from a trusted dental professional is essential to make an informed decision about your oral health. Give us a call or book an appointment today to speak with one of our friendly team.
In recent weeks, I’ve been auditing and reviewing our practice’s approach to environmental sustainability. As part of this process, I examined the latest infection control guidelines from the Australian Dental Association and was pleased to see a substantial section focused on environmentally responsible practices.
Our profession relies heavily on plastic products and chemical disinfectants to maintain hygiene and ensure patient safety. From disposable gloves and syringes to sterilization wraps, plastic is a staple in most dental practices. However, as environmental awareness grows, so does the desire within the profession to become more sustainable and environmentally responsible.
Dental practices are now taking proactive steps to reduce their environmental footprint, making evidence-based changes that balance the need for safety with sustainability. One major focus is reducing the use of single-use plastics where possible. For example, our practice has transitioned to compostable or biodegradable alternatives that break down more easily and have a reduced impact on the environment.
Another shift is toward using materials that are less harmful when they enter the waste stream. This includes products made from safer, non-toxic materials that don’t pose a risk to ecosystems once discarded.
While these changes may seem small—such as switching to compostable cups or using biodegradable sterilization wraps—they add up to make a big difference over time. By implementing these sustainable practices, the dental profession is taking an important step toward reducing its environmental impact without compromising on patient care.
I believe sustainability in dentistry is more than a trend, it’s a necessary evolution. With every small, intentional change, our industry moves closer to being part of the solution in preserving our planet’s health.
This month, let’s talk about how to keep the spaces between your teeth clean. It is crucial for bright healthy teeth and gums. Here are four effective ways to tackle those tricky spots:
Traditional Floss: The Classic
String floss is a timeless choice – reliable and portable. Simply wrap it around your fingers and slide it between each tooth. With a little practice, you’ll master the technique quickly.
Floss Handles: The Convenient Option
Floss handles hold the floss for you, making it easy to reach those tricky back teeth. Just grip the handle and guide the floss between your teeth. It’s straightforward and hassle-free.
Interdental Brushes: The Precision Tools
These mini brushes fit perfectly between your teeth. Insert them in and out to effectively remove food particles and plaque. They’re especially useful for larger gaps or those with braces.
Water Flossers: The High-Tech Solution
Water flossers use a stream of water to clean between your teeth, removing debris effortlessly. Whilst it’s not cleaning mechanically, they’re perfect for those with sensitive gums or dexterity issues, and is often an easier habit to adopt.
Which One to Choose?
Choose the method that suits your needs or mix and match. Traditional floss for precision, handles for convenience, brushes for larger gaps, and water flossers for a tech-savvy clean. Your teeth will thank you! Still unsure on which option will work best for you? Give us a call, or schedule an appointment with our team to discuss each option in more detail!
Welcome to our ultimate guide on sports mouthguards tailored specifically for young athletes excelling in basketball and football! In this comprehensive post, we’ll delve into the vital role of mouthguards in safeguarding smiles and enhancing performance on the court and field. Whether you’re a parent, coach, or young athlete, understanding the benefits of mouthguards is essential for optimising safety and maximising potential. Let’s dive in!
Protecting Precious Smiles: Why Mouthguards Matter
Young athletes participating in high-energy sports like basketball and football face a myriad of risks, including dental injuries. Mouthguards serve as essential protective gear, mitigating the impact of collisions and falls, and preventing tooth fractures, dislocations, and avulsions. By acting as a shock absorber, mouthguards ensure that smiles remain intact, sparing athletes from the pain and expense of dental trauma.
Concussion Prevention: A Hidden Benefit of Mouthguards
Beyond dental protection, mouthguards may also play a role in reducing the risk and severity of concussions – a serious concern in sport with high physical contact. Recent studies suggest that mouthguards help absorb impact forces and stabilise the head and neck, potentially minimising the risk of head injuries. This dual function of mouthguards underscores their importance in promoting overall player safety and well-being.
Comfort and Performance: The Winning Combination
Comfort is key when it comes to sports gear, and mouthguards are no exception. Custom-fitted mouthguards offer superior comfort and retention, allowing young athletes to breathe, speak, and hydrate without interference. By reducing jaw tension and enhancing overall comfort, mouthguards enable athletes to maintain focus and perform at their peak, maximising their potential on the court or field.
Building Lifelong Oral Health Habits
Instilling good oral health habits from a young age sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. By emphasising the importance of wearing mouthguards during sports activities, parents and coaches foster a culture of injury prevention and oral care. This proactive approach not only protects young athletes from immediate injuries but also promotes long-term dental health, reducing the likelihood of costly treatments down the road.
Conclusion: Gear Up for Success
As young athletes embark on their sports journey, equipping them with properly fitted mouthguards is essential for their safety and success. Whether shooting hoops or kicking goals, protecting their smiles should be a top priority. At our practice, we specialise in crafting custom-fitted sports mouthguards tailored to the unique needs of young athletes. Schedule and appointment today to ensure your child’s smile stays bright and their game stays strong. Contact us to get started. Let’s gear up for success together!
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and indulgence, often accompanied by festive treats and gatherings. While it’s a time to enjoy the company of loved ones and share delicious meals, it’s also wise to be mindful of potential dental issues that can arise during this period.
1. Sugar Overload and Tooth Decay
One of the hallmark features of the holiday season is the abundance of sweets and sugary treats. From gingerbread cookies to candy canes, indulging in these delights can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay.
Tip: Opt for sugar-free alternatives, remind children that sweet treats are a ‘sometimes’ food, drink water after consuming sugary treats to rinse the mouth, and be diligent about brushing and flossing.
2. Alcohol Consumption and Dry Mouth
Christmas and New year celebrations often involve celebrating with various alcoholic beverages. While enjoying a drink is part of the festivities, it’s important to be aware that alcohol can contribute to dry mouth, and can also be quite acidic. Reduced saliva flow can lead to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease, as saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away bacteria.
Tip: Stay hydrated by drinking water alongside alcoholic beverages, chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production, opt for some cheese with your wine to neutralise the acids, and maintain regular oral hygiene practices.
3. Stress-Related Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
The holiday season can bring joy, but it may also come with stress due to travel, hosting events, or meeting deadlines. Stress can manifest in various ways, including teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching which can lead to worn-down enamel, jaw pain, and headaches.
Tip: Practice stress management techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, heat packs and jaw massage for sore jaw muscles, and consider using a nightguard if teeth grinding occurs during sleep.
4. Cracked Teeth from Hard Foods
Festive feasts often include a variety of crunchy and hard foods, like nuts or caramelized treats and pork crackling. Biting into these items can pose a risk of cracking or chipping teeth, especially if the teeth already have large fillings, or have been worn down/eroded.
Tip: Exercise caution when consuming hard foods, especially around teeth which are already compromised.
Practicing moderation, maintaining good oral hygiene habits, and being aware of stress-related behaviours can go a long way in preserving your dental health during this joyous season, particularly as access to your local dentist may not be as easy due to holiday closures. By incorporating these tips into your holiday celebrations, you can ensure that your smile remains bright well into the new year.
Introduction
We often view our oral health and overall well-being as separate entities, but in reality, they are interconnected in profound ways. One surprising and less-known connection is the link between dental health and heart health. In recent years, research has shed light on the intricate relationship between the two, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene for a healthy heart. In this blog post, we will explore the surprising connection between dental health and heart health, and how taking care of your teeth can lead to a healthier cardiovascular system.
The Oral-Systemic Link
The mouth serves as the gateway to the body, and its health plays a pivotal role in overall health. Emerging evidence suggests that the bacteria and inflammation in your mouth can impact various parts of your body, including the heart. Here’s how the oral-systemic connection works:
- Inflammation: Gum disease, or periodontitis, is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the gums. This inflammation can lead to the release of inflammatory markers in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of systemic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a known risk factor for heart disease.
- Bacterial Translocation: Harmful oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream through bleeding gums or small injuries during dental procedures. Once in the bloodstream, these bacteria can travel to the heart and contribute to the formation of arterial plaque, which can lead to heart disease.
- Endothelial Dysfunction: Periodontal disease may lead to dysfunction in the endothelium, the lining of blood vessels. Endothelial dysfunction is a precursor to atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing them and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The Research
Several studies have investigated the connection between oral health and heart health. One such study published in the journal Circulation found that individuals with gum disease have a significantly higher risk of suffering from a heart attack than those with healthy gums. Another study published in the Journal of Periodontology revealed that treating gum disease can lead to improved endothelial function, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Maintaining Dental Health for a Healthy Heart
The link between dental health and heart health underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to overall well-being. Here are some steps you can take to maintain both your oral and cardiovascular health:
- Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to monitor and maintain your oral health. Your dentist can identify gum disease in its early stages and provide treatment options.
- Brush and Floss: Practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. This helps prevent the buildup of plaque and reduces the risk of gum disease.
- Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can benefit both your oral and heart health. Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, as they can contribute to gum disease and heart disease.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for both gum disease and heart disease. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to gum disease and heart problems. Engage in stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or exercise to maintain a healthy heart and mouth.
Conclusion
The connection between dental health and heart health is a reminder that our bodies are complex systems where various aspects of health are interconnected. By taking good care of your oral health, you are not only preserving your smile but also promoting a healthier heart. Regular dental checkups, proper oral hygiene, and a heart-healthy lifestyle are essential for overall well-being, ensuring that you maintain both a dazzling smile and a strong, healthy heart.
If you’ve been putting off that dental checkup or have concerns about your oral health, now is the perfect time to take action. Making that phone call to schedule an appointment with your dentist can be the crucial first step towards ensuring both your dental health and heart health. Remember, prevention is the best medicine, and by addressing any oral health issues early, you not only protect your teeth and gums but also contribute to the well-being of your heart. Don’t wait, pick up the phone and make that appointment today. Your heart and smile will thank you!
Introduction
We often neglect our oral health, assuming that minor dental issues will eventually resolve themselves. However, the truth is that postponing necessary dental treatments can lead to more significant and costly problems down the road. Dental crowns, while initially seeming like a substantial investment, can actually save you money in the long run. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why dental crowns are a wise financial decision for preserving your smile and your wallet.
1. Prevents Further Damage
When a tooth is severely decayed, fractured, or weakened due to dental procedures or injuries, a dental crown can be the ideal solution. Instead of waiting until the tooth becomes irreparable, a crown provides a protective barrier, preventing the need for more extensive treatments like root canals or extractions. Addressing the problem early with a crown can significantly reduce the potential costs of future dental work.
2. Durability and Longevity
Dental crowns are renowned for their longevity and durability. Made from robust materials like ceramic, porcelain fused to metal, or zirconia, crowns can withstand the pressures of everyday chewing and biting. They are designed to last for many years, often ranging from 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care. Investing in a durable dental crown now means fewer replacements in the future, saving you money on recurrent dental expenses.
3. Minimizes Tooth Sensitivity
Teeth that are damaged, cracked, or decayed can often become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, causing discomfort and pain. A dental crown covers and protects the damaged tooth, effectively reducing sensitivity and pain. By eliminating the need for sensitive toothpaste or other temporary remedies, you can save money on these specialized products over time.
4. Preserves Natural Teeth Structure
Unlike dental implants, which may require the removal of healthy adjacent teeth for placement, dental crowns work by encasing the existing damaged tooth. This process helps preserve the natural tooth structure while offering a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution. Preserving your natural teeth is not only beneficial for your oral health but can also save you money as you won’t need to explore more invasive and expensive alternatives.
5. Aesthetic Benefits
Dental crowns not only restore the functionality of your teeth but also enhance your smile’s appearance. They are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and attractive result. A beautiful smile can boost your self-confidence and positively impact various aspects of your life, including your social interactions and even career opportunities.
6. Insurance Coverage
In some cases, dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of the cost of dental crowns, particularly when the procedure is deemed necessary for oral health. While insurance coverage varies, it’s essential to check with your provider to understand your benefits fully. Taking advantage of insurance coverage can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and make dental crowns a more affordable option.
Conclusion
When it comes to maintaining good oral health, taking proactive measures is crucial to avoiding costly dental procedures in the future. Dental crowns serve as a valuable investment that can save you money over time by preventing further damage, lasting for many years, reducing tooth sensitivity, preserving natural teeth structure, enhancing aesthetics, and leveraging insurance coverage.
Remember, your oral health is an integral part of your overall well-being, and taking care of it now can lead to significant long-term savings. So, don’t hesitate to consult your dentist about the benefits of dental crowns and take a step towards a healthier smile and a healthier wallet.
We all know that prevention is better than cure, but it is also almost always cheaper than cure.
What you may not know is that your saliva has many protective properties for your teeth and gums. Here are some of its amazing purposes in protecting your pearly whites:
- Washing effect – saliva constantly washes the surfaces of your teeth and gums, not allowing harmful bacteria and acids to accumulate.
- Lubrication – your saliva forms a slippery coating on your teeth, making it more difficult to food and harmful bacteria to attach to the teeth surfaces
- Neutralising acids – saliva has an amazing buffering capacity to neutralise harmful acids, so to reduce erosion of precious dental enamel!
Also, did you know that when teeth are dry, staining and discolouration of teeth happen a lot more rapidly? Teeth appear dull, lifeless, and they actually become more brittle when they’re dehydrated. Not to mention a dry mouth often is the main reason why some individuals can have bad breath. So it sounds like if you are dehydrated, your smile may become less attractive, your teeth could break or decay more easily, and your partner may even start to complain about your breath… yikes!
Fortunately, all these can be prevented with just ONE simple habit – drink water!
We recommend drinking unfiltered tap water, as it contains a very low yet beneficial level of fluoride. Research has shown that since fluoridation of our water supply, dental decay incidence has reduced by up to 97%!
You might have heard that an average adult should be drinking about 2 litres of water a day. This has huge benefits for the general health too. Additionally, the magic is in how frequently you drink water. Frequent sips of water throughout the day have a much better effect compared to gobbling a large amount in one go. Also, healthy habits such as drinking some water after acidic/sugary foods, or staining drinks such as coffee, can greatly improve the health and aesthetics of your smile.
So go on, pick up that water bottle and build a great FREE habit, and maintain your healthy beautiful smile for many years to come!
We recommend coming in to see a dental professional every 6 months for a professional scale and clean. In doing this, we can drastically reduce the incidence of gum disease. These regular visits allow us to closely monitor the teeth and gums, and make sure you are on track with your oral hygiene care at home.
At these recall visits, we will be able to identify any other dental problems early on and treat them before they become larger, more complex and often more costly to treat. Small holes usually don’t hurt at all so you may not even notice that they are there which is why it’s so important to have a professional check your teeth.
If you are due for your dental check up & clean, call us on (03) 8595 1888 or book online to make an appointment.
Did you know that the most common spot for decay is in between your teeth? This is because it’s the area that’s missed the most.
If you think about having a shower; you wash ALL sides of your body – not just the front and the back. Similarly, brushing is great and works really well cleaning the front and back surfaces of your teeth, but it doesn’t get in between the teeth well. This is why flossing is so important!
Find flossing tiring? There are other methods you can use to clean in between your teeth such as an interdental brush (like a Pikster) or a Waterpik. Ask us about these alternatives next time you come in for your check up!
If you would like a dental professional to go through oral hygiene techniques like brushing and flossing in more detail, call us on (03) 8595 1888 or book online.
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At Gisborne Family Dental, we are committed to delivering quality, comprehensive dentistry with the utmost integrity, and respect for our patients.
