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At Lotus Smiles Dental, we perform dental fillings every day with a strong focus on patient comfort and care. It’s completely normal to experience mild tooth sensitivity after a filling, especially if the cavity was large or close to the tooth’s nerve. In most cases, this sensitivity gradually improves within a few days as the tooth adjusts to the restoration.
If discomfort persists beyond a week or worsens, don’t hesitate to contact our Sunbury dental team for a follow-up.
What Happens During A Dental Filling Procedure?
Before starting the filling, our dentist will numb the area with a local anaesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. If the cavity has caused toothache or sensitivity, the area may already feel tender, but the anaesthetic quickly reduces discomfort. Once numb, the dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth, cleans the cavity, and fills it with a tooth-coloured or metal material—restoring both function and appearance.
What does it feel like?
You might feel a slight pinch when the local anaesthetic is injected, but the area will quickly become numb—ensuring your filling procedure is pain-free and comfortable.
Once numb, our dentist will use a dental drill to remove any decayed tooth structure. While the sound or pressure may feel unusual, you won’t feel pain. After cleaning the cavity, our dentist will fill it using the material you’ve chosen—commonly composite resin, silver amalgam, gold, or porcelain, depending on your needs and preferences.
What Can You Expect After Dental Fillings?
Sensation will return to your mouth once the anaesthetic wears off. How long this takes depends on the person. It’s possible to feel the effects of the anaesthetic for a few hours after the procedure. Some of the most common side effects include:
- Numbness
- Itchiness
- Puffiness
You may also find it difficult to swallow, chew, talk or move your face.
Because your face may still feel numb and there’s a chance you could bite your tongue or the side of your cheek, your dentist will advise you not to eat or drink for a few hours.
What To Expect After The Anaesthetic Has Worn Off
Patients who have dental fillings will need to adjust a little once the anaesthetic has worn off. Tooth sensitivity is a relatively normal side effect after a filling.
Tooth Pain And Sensitivity After Dental Fillings
Tooth sensitivity is different to pain, and it is usually caused by different triggers. When you have tooth sensitivity you can feel an intense and uncomfortable sensation that seems to reach deep into your gum. Some patients describe the feeling like a shock or jabbing pain, with a quick onset.
What Triggers Tooth Sensitivity?
Some common triggers for tooth sensitivity after dental fillings include
- Very sweet or sugary foods
- Hot beverages and soup
- Cold or icy food and drink like ice cream, chilled beverages and ice
- Cold air hitting your tooth
Why Do Dental Fillings Cause Tooth Sensitivity?
In the majority of cases, tooth sensitivity after filling goes away after a short period of time. Sometimes it is necessary to chat with your dentist. Let’s take a closer look at when that’s necessary:
An inflamed nerve
The most common cause of short term tooth sensitivity after a filling is because the nerve inside your tooth has become inflamed. If your dentist has performed a deep filling, it’s possible it got close to the nerve resulting in discomfort or sensitivity.
This sensation should heal as your nerve heals. It could take a few days or a few weeks, but it should improve rather than get worse. Over time, your tooth will start to feel as normal as the other teeth in your mouth.
Misalignment in your jaw
When your dentist makes and places your filling, it must fit correctly against your other jaw, and line up when you bite. Because your dentist has used local anaesthetic and you won’t much sensation in your mouth, you might not always realise that your jaws are misaligned until the anaesthetic wears off.
If you get home and you experience sensitivity when biting, you may need to have your dental fillings adjusted by your dentist.
Pulpitis
While it is rare, it is possible to develop an inflammation of your tooth pulp, known as pulpitis. Pulpitis can cause pain and tooth sensitivity.
It may occur when:
- You have a deep cavity that extends into the inner pulp
- You have had multiple procedures or fillings on the affected tooth
- A trauma to your tooth that has broken or cracked it.
Managing Tooth Sensitivity
Ask your dentist to recommend toothpaste for sensitive teeth. it might give you relief straight away but you should feel an improvement in a few days of use, brushing twice a day.
Remember to brush and floss gently but thoroughly, so as not to aggravate sensitivity.
Still have questions about tooth sensitivity after filling? Please contact us for assistance: (03) 8737 9359
- Extrinsic Vs Intrinsic Stains
- The Problem With Home And Natural Remedies
- How To Make Your Teeth Healthy And White
- How To Make Your Teeth More White Professionally
- Make Your Teeth White With Professional Treatments
Teeth discolouration is a natural part of the ageing process, and if you’d like to know how to make your teeth white, this is the article for you. Despite an overwhelming amount of Internet evidence pointing to natural and home remedies for teeth whitening, professional teeth whitening is still the only tried and trusted way to whiten your smile. At Lotus Smiles Dental, we are committed to safe, affordable teeth whitening for our patients.
Extrinsic Vs Intrinsic Stains
If you smoke or drink lots of coffee or red wine, you may have stains on the surface of your teeth. These stains are extrinsic and are caused by lifestyle factors. Extrinsic stains can also be avoided through professional dental cleaning and brushing and flossing twice daily.
As you get older you may also find that the overall shade of your teeth has become dull and discoloured and may start to look yellow. This is intrinsic staining, and it takes place on the inside of your teeth, inside the dentin that runs through the middle of each tooth. The only way to lighten and brighten yellow teeth is through professional cleaning.
The Problem With Home And Natural Remedies
As our selfie generation has become more comfortable with close-up shots and the desire to look younger, the demand for teeth whitening has increased – and so too have the number of over-the-counter whitening kits and home remedy claims.
The problem with purchasing cheap teeth whitening kits, strips and gels over-the-counter, is that they are not strong enough to remove stains, and can often cause damage. This is either because patients tend to leave the whitening product on their teeth for too long or because the cheaper product doesn’t offer any level of protection when it penetrates the tooth enamel.
The issue with using products from around your home for whitening, is that they are not specially formulated for teeth and can do more damage than benefit. Abrasive substances like baking soda, charcoal, vinegar and lemon juice (even when it’s in toothpaste) can damage your tooth enamel, making it more susceptible to stains in the future, and cause tooth sensitivity.
How To Make Your Teeth Healthy And White
Dental hygiene and strong, healthy teeth are more important than the pursuit of a white smile. Twice daily brushing and flossing as well as six monthly visits to your dentist is fundamental in maintaining a healthy smile.
At your dental check up, you can chat about your whitening options with your dentist. Not every patient is a candidate for teeth whitening. In order to whiten your smile professionally, you need strong and healthy tooth enamel, as well as a mouth free of cavities and decay.
At Lotus Smiles Dental we only offer our patients tried and tested whitening systems that we know work effectively. We work with pola teeth whitening and Philips Zoom because we know we can trust their results.
How To Make Your Teeth More White Professionally
If you have a special event or occasion coming up, or you’d like to whiten your teeth in the quickest most hassle-free way, professional in-chair whitening will yield the fastest results.
With in-chair whitening your dentist is in complete control of the procedure and most patients can whiten their teeth in just one hour.
If you’d prefer more gradual whitening and are not in a rush to see results, a take home kit can be worn for a few hours every day or overnight, until you reach your desired shade of whiteness.
Make Your Teeth White With Professional Treatments
Remember that teeth whitening products with more than 6% hydrogen peroxide must be administered by a professional dentist. In the event that you do decide to whiten your teeth at home it is imperative that you have a pre-whitening check-up and follow your dentist’s instructions, including not exceeding the wear time of the product.
Leaving the bleach on your teeth for too long can cause damage to your tooth enamel and prolonged tooth sensitivity, and isn’t worth the risk.
Also remember that if you expect professional results, you must use professional treatment. Your dentist will discuss the best way forward to help you achieve your whitening goals.
If you’d like to know how to make your teeth white, it’s time to get professional help. Please contact us for whitening consultation: (03) 8737 9359.
- What Are Dental Veneers?
- How Much Do Dental Veneers Cost?
- How Long Does A Veneer Procedure Take?
- Are Porcelain Veneers Worth The Cost?
The benefits of porcelain veneers are vast, and a few strategically placed veneers can really make over the appearance of your smile. If porcelain veneers cost has got you concerned about budgets, you could always consider composite resin as a more affordable alternative. Let’s take a look at the benefits of veneers and how much you can expect to pay for them in Australia.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells that are custom-made to suit the appearance of your mouth and teeth. They are tooth coloured and bonded to the front of your teeth using a special adhesive.
Veneers are used to alter the appearance of your teeth. They can be used to improve teeth’s size, shape, colour or length. Sometimes veneers are used to improve irregularly spaced or crooked teeth. They are ideal for minor corrections and can be used to address cracks, chips, breaks and discolouration in teeth and teeth enamel.
The most popular veneers are porcelain and composite resin. Porcelain veneers cost more than composite resin, but they last much longer. Modern veneers have become really advanced, in that they can mimic the way that natural teeth reflect light, ensuring they look natural and blend in with your smile.
How Much Do Dental Veneers Cost?
The price of dental veneers will depend on the material you choose, and the number of veneers that you will have fitted. Each dental practitioner will set his or her own fee structure, and prices vary depending on the complexity of your procedure.
According to average costs published by smile.com.au, reflecting the results of their National dental fee Survey in 2017, patients can expect to pay approximately $1983 per porcelain veneer, while composite resin veneers cost up to $880 per tooth.
In recent years, porcelain dental veneers have become more affordable, as patients have shown in increase in demand and dental technologies have improved, driving costs down. Once considered a luxury only accessible to VIPs and celebrities, dental veneers are being widely adopted by patients who want to invest in the appearance of their smile.
How Long Does A Veneer Procedure Take?
Veneers can be applied relatively quickly because no surgery is required, but each patient must be assessed and have impressions taken of his or her mouth and teeth. Your dentist will take x-rays and digital photographs in order to prepare a treatment plan and cost estimate.
Regardless of the type of veneer you opt for, your dentist will need to make space in your mouth to accommodate the new covering for your teeth. The teeth to be covered by veneers will be prepared by having about half a millimetre of enamel removed. Sometimes anaesthetic is given to minimise tooth sensitivity and maximise your comfort.
Once this is done, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental laboratory to have your dental veneers created. Your veneers are usually ready two to four weeks later.
You will return to your dentist who will polish and etch your teeth so they bond well with the veneers. The veneers are stuck to your teeth using dental cement that is hardened by a light beam. Once the veneers have bonded successfully, your dentist may make some adjustments to your bite.
Are Porcelain Veneers Worth The Cost?
As you can see from the above cost estimates, porcelain is more than twice the cost of composite resin veneers, but porcelain can last for as long as 25 years. If you do not have to replace your veneers again porcelain des work out more cost effective in the long term.
Because porcelain veneers are so durable, they require very little to no maintenance, making them hassle-free for patients.
Composite resin does have value too, and creates a very natural effect. By comparison, composite resin veneers may only last up to eight years before needing replacing, and may be prone to chopping. Maintaining them makes their costs higher.
In order to ensure you really get a return on your investment in porcelain veneers, your teeth and gums should be in a healthy condition. Veneers can add a protective layer to teeth, strengthening them from further damage.
The best candidates for dental veneers are patients who have healthy teeth and gums. because they practice good dental hygiene brushing and flossing every day. Because a certain amount of enamel needs to be removed, you should have a healthy amount to begin with.
Interested to find out more about the price of dental veneers? It’s time to speak to a professional about a treatment plan. Please get in touch with us: (03) 8737 9359.
If you’ve been told you need adult braces, your first question is probably ‘how long does Invisalign take’? And that’s quite understandable- we realise that most adults really want to minimise the amount of time they wear braces or clear aligners for. The duration of your treatment is going to depend on a few different variables. Let’s investigate how Invisalign aligners work and what you could expect from a course of treatment.
Then vs Now
While we are all very grateful for traditional metal braces and their ability to straighten teeth and correct bites, most patients do not enjoy wearing them. They can be uncomfortable, fixed, difficult to get used to and, of course, so visible to everyone else. While traditional braces are often the most effective solution for children and teenagers, adults generally want their teeth correction treatments to be more discreet.
Invisalign’s technology has recognised these shortfalls and improved on them by creating an aligner that can be removed for eating and drinking, and that is hardly noticeable when it is worn. While Invisalign does employ more modern technology than its metal predecessor, it does also have a 20-year track record of research and development behind it. This track record currently spans around 5.5 million patients who have had their teeth and bites corrected using Invisalign aligners. In fact, the very first Invisalign treatment was carried out way back in 1945.
How Do Invisalign Aligners Work?
Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that are made to gradually move your teeth into the correct positions. Once your teeth have moved, you will start to wear a new set of aligners in order to move them into the next position. Your aligners are clear and made from a special type of plastic that requires very good dental hygiene in order to keep them transparent and correctly shaped.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
To begin the treatment process your dentist will take digital photographs, x-rays and impressions of your teeth in order to create a 3D model of your mouth. This will be used to customise your aligners – because only you can wear and benefit from this particular course of treatment.
Once your aligners are ready they will be sent to your dentist who will probably issue you with three or four sets for you to replace. You can expect to visit your dentist every six to eight weeks, where your progress will be checked and
On average most people can expect to wear their clear aligners for between six months (for minor correction) and two years if they change their aligners as directed by their dentist. Invisalign suggests an average of between 12 and 18 months per patient.
Early Invisalign treatment plans required a new set of aligners to be used every two weeks but today it is possible to change your aligners weekly, in order to speed up the correction process.
Good Things Take Time
Here’s a very big “but” that you really do need to pay attention to: even if your treatment plan lasts for two years, you must still follow your dentist’s advice post-treatment. What does this mean?
Your gums and bones will take a few years to become stable once your Invisalign has come off so your dentist will advise you on a longer term strategy to keep your teeth straight, which will involve wearing a retainer at night.
Many patients skip this step (which applies whether you’re having clear aligners or traditional metal braces, by the way) and the result is that the teeth tend to return to their original positions if this step is not followed.
Furthermore, you should also remember that Invisalign aligners are not in your mouth permanently like other types of orthodontic treatment. You can remove them for eating and brushing – but you should put them back on as soon as you can. It’s vital to remember that your treatment is only effective if you wear your aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours a day.
While they are removable, removing them too often will diminish their efficacy and you shouldn’t take them out unnecessarily.
If you are an adult and would like orthodontic treatment to be as quick as possible you should discuss this with your dentist and follow all of the advice you are given. Any deviations can impact on your treatment timeline. Also remember though the goal is to straighten your teeth correctly so that the results last and you feel confident in your smile. The objective is not to have your treatment done in record time.
You should be able to start seeing results in your smile a few months into your treatment. Use your progress positively so that you are motivated to follow all instructions given by your dentist – including wearing your retainer.
Still have questions about Invisalign aligners? We’d love to answer them – please contact us for an appointment: (03) 8737 9359
- Dental Implants Take Time
- Foreign Countries Employ Different Rules
- Foreign Dentists May Be Challenging To Communicate With
- You Don’t Have Any Recourse When Things Go Wrong
- Looking At The True Cost Of Dental Implants In Thailand
- Are Dental Implants Worth The Investment?
- Will My Health Insurance Cover The Cost Of My Dental Implants?
Dental Implants Take Time
A typical dental implant procedure can take up to 18 months to be complete, and during that time, you will make several visits to your dental practitioner. Once you have been assessed your dentist will draw up a treatment plan outlining the stages you will follow and documenting the timeline. The length of time it will take will depend on the number of procedures you need and the time it takes your body to heal between each stage. You can expect a long term engagement with your dental practitioner during this time. This is what makes it very impractical to have your dental implants in Thailand. Even if you were to make two trips to Thailand for your dental implants, it probably wouldn’t be enough – and it would cancel out any cost savings you might hope to make.Foreign Countries Employ Different Rules
The rules and regulations governing dentistry and dental implants in Thailand are completely different to those in Australia. Their dental practitioners undergo different training and certification, and their clinics, hospitals and private practices are not subject to the same rules and regulations as those in Australia. Take that into consideration when looking for a dentist that offers consultation for tooth implants. For dental implant surgery, one of the biggest risks that patients face is infection. Infection control in Asian countries is markedly different to Australia and patients that travel abroad for dental tourism should be aware of the risks that they face.Foreign Dentists May Be Challenging To Communicate With
Successful dental implant surgery requires close collaboration between the patient and dentist and this can be hampered if you can’t communicate with one another. It is also problematic if your local dentist can’t communicate with your Thai dentist when you return home and want to consult someone local to help you with post-operative care.
You Don’t Have Any Recourse When Things Go Wrong
Patients who opt for dental implants in Thailand have to face the reality that something could go wrong with their procedure – and if it does, that they have very little protection or recourse.Looking At The True Cost Of Dental Implants In Thailand
Some people might argue that a dental implant procedure is expensive in Australia and that Thailand offers cheaper alternatives that are simply more affordable, but this is only true if everything goes according to plan, and you heal on time. It also requires that you are successful in finding a dentist who will communicate with your Thai dentist after the procedure. If it doesn’t go as planned and there is a complication in the short, medium or even long term and you suffer damage, or need to have your dental implants replaced, it becomes a much more expensive procedure. While you might save yourself a few dollars in the short term, you will probably pay for it later.Are Dental Implants Worth The Investment?
A dental implant that is well cared for could last for the rest of your lifetime, or at least 30 years. Dental implants can restore form and function to your mouth and face, as well as comfort when eating and confidence when speaking. It is a permanent tooth replacement that looks, feels and functions like the other natural teeth in your mouth. When compared to bridges and dentures, dental implants have the advantage because they do not cause any damage to your surrounding teeth. Unlike bridges and dentures, dental implants also prevent further bone loss from occurring. Dental implants afford a sense of comfort that is difficult to put a price tag on, as it is the closest restoration we have to natural teeth. Discuss the pros and cons of different tooth replacements with your dentist, and together you can evaluate whether it will afford the value you need.Will My Health Insurance Cover The Cost Of My Dental Implants?
Because dental implants are still considered elective, most insurers list them as exclusions. It may be possible to have some cover if you have extras cover as part of your policy, but if you include it as an add-on it might be subject to a waiting period. If you’re still thinking about dental implants in Thailand, why don’t you schedule a consultation at your local dental clinic before booking your flight? Please contact us to discuss your options: (03) 8737 9359.1 What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
2 What Are The Symptoms?
3 What Happens When The Jaw Is Too Crowded?
4 What Can Impacted Wisdom Teeth Cause?
4.1 Avoid damage to your other teeth
4.2 Avoid cyst formation
4.3 Dental decay and gum disease
5 How To Avoid The Complications Caused By Impacted Wisdom Teeth
6 What If I Have To Have My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
Impacted wisdom teeth are quite common and when you partner with Lotus Smiles Dental you can look forward to a gentle procedure to relieve you of your discomfort. We offer wisdom tooth removals in Sunbury and look forward to welcoming you to our practice.
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are impacted when they are prevented from emerging fully from the gum. Your wisdom teeth are your third and final set of molars, and they usually only erupt in the early 20s. For most patients this occurs between the ages of 17 and 25.
Because wisdom teeth are a set of back-up teeth, most of us don’t actually need them. By the time they arrive, most patients don’t have enough room in their jaws to accommodate them, and they can start to present with problems.
If you start to feel pain or discomfort at the back of your jaws, behind your molars, you should visit your dentist to check up on your wisdom teeth. Problems with wisdom teeth are usually characterised by pain, swelling and tenderness.
This is because impacted wisdom teeth are notoriously difficult to keep clean. Problems with dental hygiene can quickly turn into gum infections and decay – especially if the wisdom teeth have only emerged partially from your gum.
What Are The Symptoms?
It’s quite common for wisdom teeth not to present with symptoms at all, and issues may only show up in a dental x-ray. But in some patients one or more of the following symptoms may also present:
- Swollen, bleeding or tender gums
- Pain and swelling in the jaw
- Bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth
What Happens When The Jaw Is Too Crowded?
For most people the jaw is too small to fit all the adult teeth plus the wisdom teeth. This can cause your wisdom teeth to impact in different ways
- Growing straight but stay in the jawbone
- Grow at an angle but impact on the adjacent molar
- Grow at an angle facing the back of your mouth
- Grow perpendicular to your other teeth (lying horizontally)
At Lotus Smiles Dental we have the experience to assist you with complex wisdom tooth removals.
What Can Impacted Wisdom Teeth Cause?
This is why impacted wisdom teeth should be removed:
Avoid damage to your other teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause damage to your other teeth if they are not removed. Of course if your wisdom teeth do not present with problems, there is no reason to remove them. Pressure on the other teeth can cause damage, and if left untreated, it may require orthodontic treatment in order to correct.
Avoid cyst formation
Impacted wisdom teeth may form cysts that can cause damage to the nerves, teeth and jaw.
Dental decay and gum disease
Wisdom teeth that are impacted are more susceptible to tooth decay because they are difficult to access when brushing and flossing. Over time this can develop into more serious stages of gum disease if it is not treated.
How To Avoid The Complications Caused By Impacted Wisdom Teeth
We do not have any control over how the wisdom teeth grow, but what we can control is our dental hygiene when they emerge. Regular (six monthly) visits to your dentist will ensure a professional eye is kept on the emergence of the wisdom teeth.
Before they erupt your dental professional will take x-rays and should have a good idea of how they will emerge. In some cases it is possible to remove the wisdom teeth before they start to present with problems. This is a much less complex and affordable endeavour than dealing with the problems later on.
What If I Have To Have My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
You are not alone – many people remove their wisdom teeth because of the problems that may cause. The procedure is usually done as an outpatient procedure and most patients can drive themselves home afterwards.
Once your dentist has injected the area with anaesthetic, he or she may need to make an incision into your gum and remove some bone before the wisdom tooth can be extracted. Then the incision will be closed up and the site will be covered with a piece of gauze. You can bite down onto the gauze to curb the bleeding. Your mouth can take up to six months to heal from the extraction, but you should start feeling better just three days afterwards.
If you need to have your wisdom teeth extracted, we would love to help you. Please call our practice for a convenient appointment: (03) 8737 9359.
1 Why Do Teeth Discolour In The First Place?
2 So, Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
3 How Safe Is Teeth Whitening?
4 How Strong Are Teeth Whitening Systems?
5 Managing Whitening Risks Before Treatment
6 How Can You Ensure Safety When Whitening At Home?
7 Keeping Your Tooth Enamel Strong And Healthy
A bright white smile is a hallmark of youth, but with the increase of whitening products on the market, patients want to know ‘is teeth whitening safe’. At Lotus Smiles Dental we use proven teeth whitening from Pola and Zoom, because they deliver fast results, are safe and affordable. Let’s take a closer look at why safe whitening is essential for a healthy smile.
Why Do Teeth Discolour In The First Place?
While certain lifestyle choices like can affect the overall colour of your teeth, discolouration occurs in the dentin, which is located deep inside the tooth, below your tooth enamel.
Drinking lots of coffee, black tea and cola, and using tobacco products can stain your teeth and exacerbate any discolouration. These products cause surface or extrinsic stains and they can generally be managed by professional dental cleaning. Whitening toothpastes may help a little, but they may damage the surface of your teeth.
So, Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
In order to address the root cause of tooth discolouration however, whitening products must penetrate the enamel of the teeth, to get to the dentin. Only products containing high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide are strong enough to do this.
How Safe Is Teeth Whitening?
High strength bleaching agents raise questions over safety but the good news is that Australian consumers are protected by legislation, which dictates that only professional dental practitioners may administer whitening products containing more than 6% hydrogen peroxide or 18% hydrogen carbamide.
How Strong Are Teeth Whitening Systems?
Typically, in-chair whitening treatments produce the fastest results, and only require one sitting to achieve them. These products may contain 25% to 37% hydrogen peroxide or carbamide and it is for safety reasons that they should only be used by a professional.
In addition to the whitening products being fortified to protect your teeth against damage, your dentist will ensure that your soft tissues are protected against damage and irritation. Any bleaching agent that spills onto your gums should be wiped away immediately.
Your dentist will also take special care to ensure that the products are not left on for longer than recommended and provide you with post-care advice to minimise tooth sensitivity after your treatment.
Teeth are brushed thoroughly and rinsed after each treatment to ensure that no residual product is left behind. While some tooth sensitivity is to be expected after teeth whitening, this sensation has usually gone away by the next day.
Managing Whitening Risks Before Treatment
Before anyone undergoes teeth whitening you must get the go-ahead from your dentist. It’s very important that your mouth is checked for any signs of decay or any weaknesses in your tooth enamel.
Having a professional clean before your whitening treatment will ensure your teeth are free of plaque and tartar, and will give your dentist a smooth surface on which to apply the whitening treatment.
For safety reasons, teeth whitening is not permitted for children or pregnant women.
How Can You Ensure Safety When Whitening At Home?
Professional teeth whitening systems are available in take-home format and contain a lower concentration of bleaching agent. As such, they are slower acting and may need to be used for 5 to 14 days before you achieve your desired shade of white.
Nevertheless, they are still very potent and must be used with caution. Always follow the instructions given by your dentist, and never wear your trays for longer than prescribed. Once your teeth have reached your desired shade ,you should stop whitening as prolonged use can weaken your tooth enamel.
Should you wish to maintain a top up schedule, your dentist will give you professional advice on how long to wait before you whiten again.
While there are lots of gels, strips and whitening kits available over the counter and through the Internet, it is recommended that you only use products endorsed by your dentist, to ensure optimal safety.
By using products from reputable companies, patients can rest assured that the relevant safety testing has been done and the products are safe enough for use. We make use of Zoom and Pola whitening products because of their proven safety track record.
Keeping Your Tooth Enamel Strong And Healthy
Regular visits to your dentist and professional teeth cleaning can help to preserve your tooth enamel and keep it in a healthy condition. Using abrasive toothpastes and at-home whitening treatments can strip and damage your tooth enamel, making it more prone to staining.
Examples of abrasive at-home or DIY whitening remedies to avoid include bicarbonate of soda, lemon juice, vinegar, charcoal and fruit sugars.
Your dentist is the best person to advise you on teeth whitening and the risk factors as they pertain to your teeth. To find out more about the answer to is teeth whitening safe, it’s time to make an appointment and book your consultation with us: (03) 8737 9359.
Wearing dentures enables you to enjoy eating and speaking again, but to ensure optimal dental health you must know how to clean your denture properly. At Lotus Smiles Dental, we are committed to educating our patients to make dental care easier. Let’s have a look at some important information on how to keep your dentures clean, stain-free and comfortable to wear.
Regardless of whether your dentures are partial or full, they need to be kept clean and free of stains. It is easy for bacteria to build up on your false teeth but with a dental hygiene routine that includes a daily cleaning and overnight deep cleaning, you can ensure this doesn’t happen.
You will need to handle your dentures fairly often, so be sure to exercise care so that you don’t break or damage the plastic while you clean.
The Importance Of Clean Dentures
Clean dentures prevent the build up of bacteria in your mouth. Bacteria can cause bad breath and inflammation of your soft tissues and over time, this can lead to infection.
Patients who don’t wear clean dentures may also experience a condition called denture stomatitis, which is the development of mouth sores that may appear at the corners of the mouth. Unmanaged infection can also lead to periodontal gum disease, further bone loss and tooth loss.
Remember To Remove Your Dentures After Every Meal
Once you have finished eating, you should rinse your dentures to remove any food particles or debris. We recommend that you use a towel over your basin while you’re doing this, so that if you drop them you won’t damage your dentures.
Why is this important?
The plastic substance that dentures are made out of attracts food much easier than the soft tissues in your mouth. Not only does this create a potential problem for bacteria to multiply, it can also be very uncomfortable. Because dentures take up so much space in your mouth any food that is trapped or collected will be very noticeable.
There are also several areas that dentures make you more prone to accumulate bacteria in:
- The bottom of your mouth can trap food and bacteria under your lower denture
- Food and debris can become trapped in the space between your upper denture and your palate
Brush Your Dentures Every Day
It’s best to clean your dentures with a soft bristled toothbrush or a piece of gauze. Avoid using toothpaste because toothpastes contain abrasive substances that might be beneficial to natural teeth but which can create little breaks or tears in your dentures where bacteria can accumulate.
Hard toothbrushes can also cause damage to your dentures and should be avoided.
Using a soft brush that is specially designed to clean dentures and spending a reasonable amount of time keeping them clean is the best way to go. Regular brushing will ensure that stains do not accumulate on your dentures. Once you are satisfied you have brushed your dentures sufficiently, rinse them gently.
Use A Denture Cleaner
Denture cleaners are recommended to remove invisible bacteria and to give your dentures a deep clean. They are often sold as effervescent tablets. It’s best to use a detergent formulated specifically to clean dentures so they do not get damaged. You should never use bleach or vinegar on your dentures, particularly if you notice a stain. Rather discuss this with your dentist because bleach can cause permanent damage or cause your denture to become misshapen.
Soaking overnight is a good way to remove any build up on your dentures. After your dentures have been immersed for the allocated time period, you should give them another gentle brush and rinse.
Don’t Forget To Clean Your Gums
When your dentures are soaking, you should ensure your gums and soft tissues are kept clean by brushing them with a soft bristled toothbrush. Inspect your gums regularly to check for any mouth sores. Make sure you visit your dentist on a regular basis, so that he or she can evaluate your oral health and check that your dentures still fit comfortably.
What Not To Do
Your dentures are delicate and should be handled carefully to avoid damage and breakage.
Do not…
- Use bleach, household cleaners or detergents to clean your dentures as this can damage them. Even if the damage is not visible, these cleaning agents can cause microscopic tears in the plastic.
- Clean them with very hot or boiling water as this can cause them to loose their shape.
Denture Repairs And Adjustments
If your dentures feel loose, do not feel tempted to adjust them to fit better, rather make an appointment to see your dentist. You will need to have them adjusted as your gums will shrink over time and ill-fitting dentures can cause inflammation and irritation. Most repairs and adjustments can be done on the same day. You will need to have your dentures relined every five years or so. Do you still have questions on how to clean your denture, or how you can make your dentures more comfortable? Please get in touch with us: (03) 8737 9359
A set of false teeth can provide a welcome replacement for missing teeth, but how much do dentures cost, and can you afford them? At Lotus Smiles Dental we are committed to providing our patients with high quality dentures at affordable prices.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are false teeth that can be removed from your mouth. They are used as a replacement for missing teeth and they are created to resemble your natural teeth as closely as possible, even though they are made out of acrylic.
The base, or piece that holds the denture together is called a plate.
The number of teeth that you are missing will determine whether you have full or partial dentures. Complete (or full) dentures replace all the teeth in your lower or upper arch. These dentures are recommended for patients who have lost all of their teeth.
Partial dentures are used when only a few teeth need to be replaced. Partial dentures are fixed by metal clasps that attach to your natural teeth.
Years ago dentures got a bad rap, but modern dentures have improved on design and functionality, ensuring they are more comfortable and authentic looking than in years gone by.
Why Bother With Tooth Replacement?
The price of dentures depends on the kind of dentures needed and the material they are created from. Full dentures cost more than partial dentures while a chrome-plated set will be more expensive than an acrylic set.
The best way to determine how much full dentures cost is to consult with your dentist. A custom approach to treatment always produces the best results but if you’d like to prepare yourself for your dental visit, smile.com.au has published some helpful figures that my put the cost into perspective for you.
According to the results of their 2017 National Dental Fee Survey, a complete lower and upper denture can cost as much as $3870. For a single denture (upper or lower) the cost can be up to $2000 each.
Will My Health Insurance Cover The Cost Of My Dentures?
These policies vary between providers. Some dental insurance plans will contribute towards the cost of dentures so you would need to check the details of your particular policy to determine this.
How Long Will My Dentures Last?
On average dentures that are well looked after can be expected to last between five and eight years before they need to be replaced. This is because your mouth will change shape over time and the dentures will wear down. Relining dentures can help them to last for longer. Relining involves remoulding the bottom of the denture so that it fits more comfortably in your mouth.
What Are My Other Tooth Replacement Options?
It is possible to replace an entire arch of teeth using dental implants, however these typically cost more than dentures, and not all patients are candidates for dental implants.
If you are missing some teeth but have some healthy natural teeth remaining, you could be a candidate for a dental bridge.
If you have missing teeth, you will have more options available to you if you seek treatment as soon as possible. If you delay treatment, you can expect some degree of bone loss to occur in your jaw, which limits your tooth replacement options.
To find out more about what full or partial dentures cost and what your tooth replacement options are, please contact our friendly team today: (03) 8737 9359.
The price of dentures depends on the kind of dentures needed and the material they are created from. Full dentures cost more than partial dentures while a chrome-plated set will be more expensive than an acrylic set.
The best way to determine how much full dentures cost is to consult with your dentist. A custom approach to treatment always produces the best results but if you’d like to prepare yourself for your dental visit, smile.com.au has published some helpful figures that my put the cost into perspective for you.
According to the results of their 2017 National Dental Fee Survey, a complete lower and upper denture can cost as much as $3870. For a single denture (upper or lower) the cost can be up to $2000 each.
Will My Health Insurance Cover The Cost Of My Dentures?
These policies vary between providers. Some dental insurance plans will contribute towards the cost of dentures so you would need to check the details of your particular policy to determine this.
How Long Will My Dentures Last?
On average dentures that are well looked after can be expected to last between five and eight years before they need to be replaced. This is because your mouth will change shape over time and the dentures will wear down. Relining dentures can help them to last for longer. Relining involves remoulding the bottom of the denture so that it fits more comfortably in your mouth.
What Are My Other Tooth Replacement Options?
It is possible to replace an entire arch of teeth using dental implants, however these typically cost more than dentures, and not all patients are candidates for dental implants.
If you are missing some teeth but have some healthy natural teeth remaining, you could be a candidate for a dental bridge.
If you have missing teeth, you will have more options available to you if you seek treatment as soon as possible. If you delay treatment, you can expect some degree of bone loss to occur in your jaw, which limits your tooth replacement options.
To find out more about what full or partial dentures cost and what your tooth replacement options are, please contact our friendly team today: (03) 8737 9359.
