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Wisdom teeth

Posted on 09.18.23 By Alf Le

Wisdom teeth are the very last molars that come through in your late teens or early 20s. Most
people will have four wisdom teeth, while some people will not develop all four, or have no wisdom
teeth at all.
Often wisdom teeth can erupt fully and not cause any problems in the long term. However, some
wisdom teeth can become impacted due to the lack of space, therefore they can be stuck
underneath the gum or only partially appear in the mouth. When wisdom teeth are impacted, they
have the potential to cause pain, food trap, tooth decay, infection, and damage to the adjacent
teeth and jaw structures. If your wisdom teeth are causing you problems, your dentist may
recommend removing them. Wisdom teeth that are causing problems or at a high risk of causing
problems in the future at best removed at a younger age to reduce the likelihood of any
complications.
Signs of wisdom teeth infection:

  • Redness and tenderness of the gums around the wisdom tooth
  • Bad taste and breath
  • Swelling and pain around the jaw
  • Difficulty opening the mouth

The removal of wisdom teeth is not without risks, which will be explained prior any treatment. To
fully assess the probable risks and provide you with the optimal outcome, a 3D X-ray (CT scan) is
often needed. Possible complications following wisdom teeth removal can include:

  • Damage to the nerve supplying the wisdom teeth (lower wisdom teeth)
  • Opening with the maxillary sinus (upper wisdom teeth)
  • Pain
  • Bleeding
  • Swelling
  • Damage to adjacent teeth
  • Dry socket

Wisdom teeth removal can often be performed under local anaesthesia. At Redcliffe Smiles, we also
offer the options for sedation under happy gas (nitrous oxide), as well as being put to sleep under
general anaesthetic to reduce pain and anxiety, providing a more comfortable experience.
You can’t prevent a wisdom tooth impaction from occurring but keeping regular six-month dental
check-ups will enable your dentist to monitor the growth of your wisdom teeth and help intervene
should any symptoms develop.

Veneers

Posted on 07.26.23 By Alf Le

Enhance Your Smile with Dental Veneers – Redcliffe Smiles’ Comprehensive Guide

By Dr Winnie Ma

At Redcliffe Smiles, we believe that a beautiful smile can significantly boost your confidence and leave a lasting impression. One of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments we offer is dental veneers.

If you’ve ever desired a flawless, radiant smile, dental veneers might be the perfect solution for you. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about dental veneers, their benefits, the procedure, and why Redcliffe Smiles is your go-to dental clinic for transforming your smile.

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-coloured material, typically made from porcelain or composite resin depending on your personal preference and budget. They are designed to cover the front surface of your teeth, hiding imperfections and enhancing their appearance. Veneers are perfect for you if you want to achieve a fast smile transformation, especially if you have concerns about the colour, shape, size, and/or position of your teeth.

The Benefits of Dental Veneers

Enhanced Aesthetics: Veneers can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile by correcting various dental flaws such as discolouration, gaps, and misshaped or worn teeth. They can create a natural-looking, uniform set of teeth, giving you that smile you’ve always wanted.

Long-lasting Results: With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental veneers can last for many years, making them a durable investment in your smile.

Minimal Tooth Alteration: Compared to other restorative procedures, veneers require minimal enamel removal, preserving most of your natural tooth structure and in some instances no preparation is required.

Stain Resistance: Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to stains, ensuring a bright, white smile even after consuming staining substances like coffee or red wine or even smoking.

Boosted Confidence: Dental veneers can significantly improve your self-esteem by transforming your smile and allowing you to feel more confident.

The Dental Veneer Procedure

Step 1: Consultation – Visit Redcliffe Smiles for a thorough dental examination and a consultation with our experienced dentists. We will discuss your dental concerns, assess your oral health, and determine if dental veneers are the right solution for you.

Step 2: Treatment Planning – Our skilled dental team will develop a personalised treatment plan based on your desired outcome. We will discuss the veneer options, material choices, and address any questions or concerns you may have. Our team will design a smile for you to visualise the end results even before you get started. We use computer generated smile designs to help you decide on the perfect smile.

Step 3: Tooth Preparation – In this step, a small amount of enamel may need to be removed from the front surface of your teeth to create space for the veneers. Precise preparation of your teeth will ensure a seamless fit and more natural appearance.

Step 4: Impression and Temporary Veneers – We will take precise scans of your prepared teeth to create custom made veneers that perfectly match your smile. While your permanent veneers are being fabricated, temporary veneers will be placed to protect your teeth and maintain aesthetics.

Step 5: Veneer Bonding – Once your permanent veneers are ready, we will carefully bond them to your teeth using dental cement. Our dentist will ensure proper fit, shape, and colour, making any necessary adjustments for optimal results.

Step 6: Follow-up – After the veneer placement, we will schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate the success of the procedure and ensure your satisfaction. We will provide you with instructions on how to care for your new veneers for long-lasting results.

Caring for your Dental Veneers

Your Dental Veneers will still need the same care you take into looking after any other tooth. With regular brushing, flossing, and routine visits to the dentist, your dental veneers will last for years to come.

If you are seeking a smile transformation, dental veneers can be an excellent solution to achieve the dazzling smile you deserve. Schedule a consultation with us today at Redcliffe Smiles for individualised plans and take the first step towards your dream smile you have always wanted.

Have you ever had a toothache?

Posted on 06.28.23 By Alf Le

If so, you would know that the pain can range from mild discomfort to excruciating pain. But did you know that dental pain can be caused by a variety of factors? In this blog, we will discuss some of the causes of toothaches, how to prevent them, and what to do if you are unlucky enough to experience one.

Causes of Toothaches

A toothache can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. Tooth decay: A hole or cavity will occur when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that eat away your tooth enamel. If left untreated, cavities will increase in size and can cause toothaches.

2. Gum disease: Gum disease is caused by the build-up of plaque and tartar on your teeth and if left for too long can lead to tooth loss and in some cases acute dental pain. 

3. Tooth abscess: A tooth abscess is a collection of pus that forms in your tooth or gums. It can cause severe pain and swelling.

4. Tooth fracture: A tooth fracture can be caused by trauma to your mouth, such as a fall or a blow to the face. It can cause pain when you bite down or chew.

5. Grinding your teeth: Grinding your teeth can cause toothaches, as it can wear down your tooth enamel and cause sensitivity.

6. Tooth sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can cause a sharp, shooting pain when you eat or drink something hot or cold.

7. Sinus infection: Due to the proximity of your sinus’ to your upper teeth, sinus infections can present as pain in your upper teeth.

8. Wisdom teeth: When your wisdom teeth start to erupt, they can cause pain and discomfort especially if they become impacted.

What to Do If You Experience a Toothache?

See your dentist as soon as possible, especially if you experience fever or swelling. Your dentist will diagnose the cause of your toothache and recommend the appropriate treatment. 

The treatment for a toothache will depend on the cause of the pain. Some common treatments for toothaches include:

1. Filling a cavity: If your toothache is caused by a cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth and restore it with a filling material.

2. Root canal: If your toothache is caused by an infection in the pulp of your tooth, your dentist may recommend a root canal. During a root canal, your dentist will remove the infected pulp and fill the tooth with a filling material.

3. Gum disease treatment: If your toothache is caused by gum disease, your dentist will recommend treatment to remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums.

4. Tooth extraction: If your tooth is severely damaged or infected and cannot be saved, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. 

5. Antibiotics: If your toothache is caused by an infection, your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the infection.

In the meantime, there may be things you can do to alleviate the pain. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This can help reduce inflammation and ease the discomfort. Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or Panadol and a cold compress can help to help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Avoid hot or cold foods and drinks, as they can make the pain worse.

In summary, if you have a toothache, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Call us at Redcliffe Smiles on 1300 438 715 if you have a dental emergency, toothache or any other dental issues. We have appointment available today and will be more than happy to assist you with any concerns you may have.  

The Importance of Dental Visits

Posted on 06.13.23 By Alf Le

Prevention is the key to good oral health

Regular dental check-ups are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. Many people assume that if they brush and floss their teeth regularly, they don’t need to visit the dentist. However, this is not true. Even if you have excellent oral hygiene habits, you still need to see a dentist regularly for professional care.
Here are some of the reasons why regular dental check-ups are so important:

  1. Early Detection of Dental Problems
    During a dental check-up, your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of dental problems. This includes cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other issues. Note that a lot of these dental diseases can be present without any pain or other symptoms. If these problems are detected early, they can be treated before they become more serious and require more extensive treatment.
  2. Preventive Care
    Preventive care is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. During your dental check-up, your dentist will clean your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar build-up. This will help protect you from cavities and gum disease.
  3. Improved Overall Health
    Did you know that your oral health is closely linked to your overall health?
    Poor oral health can increase your risk of developing a range of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes. Regular dental check-ups will help ensure that your oral health is in good condition, which can in turn improve your overall health and wellbeing.
  4. Education and Advice
    At Redcliffe Smiles your dentist will happily answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding your dental health and provide you with valuable education and advice on how to maintain good oral hygiene.
  5. Cost Savings
    Regular dental check-ups can save you money in the long run. By detecting dental problems early, your dentist can treat them before they become more serious and require more expensive treatment. In addition, preventive care can help prevent dental problems from developing in the first place, which can save you money on dental bills.

Regular dental check-ups are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. By detecting dental problems early, or preventing them in the first place, your dentist can help ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy.
So If you haven’t had a dental check-up in the past six months, give us a call on 1300 428 715. It’s time to make an appointment. Your smile (and your overall health) will thank you for it!

Why are regular visits to the dentist important?

Posted on 11.12.19 By Alf Le

Whether you are a fanatical brusher or not, it is important that you keep up regular appearances at your dentist each year. Seeing your dentist for six monthly check up and cleans is an integral part of keeping good oral hygiene habits. Some of you may be wondering why we suggest that you come and see us regularly, when you already have good oral hygiene or don’t need any dental work.  Well, let’s break it down for you.

Brushing and flossing are important because they remove left over food and debris that builds up throughout the day. However, over time our teeth will get a build up of calculus (solidified plaque) which, if left can cause irritation to the gums and potentially decay in the teeth. If you brush and floss regularly then the build-up of tartar around your teeth should be minimal, however it still needs to be removed by a dentist to prevent any issues occurring.

Our mouths are home to millions of bacteria that thrive and feed off the plaque and tartar we accumulate over time. Your dentist will use specially designed instruments to remove the build-up from your teeth and around your gums, this can help to reduce swollen inflamed gums and prevent decay developing in the teeth. The longer we leave this on our teeth, the more likely we are to develop issues such as gum disease which over time can result in bone loss and the potential loss of teeth.

The dentists here at Redcliffe Smiles recommend getting your teeth professionally cleaned every six months to minimise the damage this build up can do to your mouth. We also suggest brushing and flossing multiple times a day as this promotes good oral hygiene and will make your check-up appointment much more pleasant!

The Redcliffe Smiles Team.

What is an implant?

Posted on 09.13.18 By Alf Le

Dental Implants

Dental Implants have caused a revolutionary change in dentistry. The more advanced our technology becomes, the more exciting our treatment options become. So, what are they, how do they work and why would you want one? Let’s break it down.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium fixture that is carefully inserted into the jaw bone. This serves as a replacement for the roots of the teeth that have been lost due to injury, disease or decay.

On top of the implant, an abutment and ceramic crown is then placed. Implant retained ceramic
crowns can be impossible to distinguish from natural teeth, both functionally and cosmetically.

Some of the major benefits of dental implant treatment is that they are strong, stable, secure and reliable so you can eat quite normally after treatment is complete.

They provide an aesthetically pleasing result, blending with the adjacent teeth.

When can dental Implants be used?

It doesn’t matter whether teeth were lost through accident, disease or decay, dental implants are an excellent tooth replacement for many patients.

Our dentists will be able to assist and inform you whether you are a good candidate and what option best suits your circumstances.

Dental Implants can be used when:

  • A single tooth is missing
  • Several teeth are missing
  • All teeth are missing

So basically, if you are missing one or more teeth then an implant may be an option for you.

How does it work?

After detailed consultation and examination, a treatment plan will be prepared by your dentist. Only once you are happy with the plan, will your dentist perform surgery to place the implant.

Following the placement of your implant, an integration period of between 6-16 weeks is required. This to allow for your bone to fuse to the implant through a process called osseointegration.

When your dentist is satisfied with the stability of your implant fixture, the final restoration can take place.

Care and maintenance

With long term studies over more than three decades and over a million patients treated, implants are highly successful- with a 95% success rate. With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups this will help ensure a long lasting solution.

Let’s recap! An implant consists of three parts, the implant fixture (screw), the abutment and the crown.

The implant fixture is placed in the jaw and acts as a root, the abutment and the crown are attached to this to form a fully functional tooth replacement.

Pretty cool stuff, right? Implants can be used to replace single, multiple or all missing teeth depending on the patient. With the correct care and maintenance they are an excellent treatment option for those with missing teeth, as they have an excellent long term prognosis.

This is why so many people are now opting for this as a solution to their missing teeth.

This is all of your basic information regarding dental Implants, however if you believe that this may be a good option for yourself and would like to know more then please don’t hesitate to contact us on 3203 7177. We love to answer any questions you may have and assist you in any way we can.

What is a crown?

Posted on 02.25.17 By Alf Le

A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers a damaged or weak tooth and fully encases the visible portion of the tooth. Crowns restore shape, size, strength and appearance whilst protecting the tooth from damage.

A crown may be needed for a number of reasons, these reasons can include:

  • To protect weak teeth
  • Restore a broken tooth
  • To cover and support a tooth with a large filling or minimal tooth structure
  • To hold a bridge in place
  • Cover a dental implant
  • Or for cosmetic modification

There are many different uses for crowns and there are also different types of crowns that can be used. There are metal, porcelain fused to metal, resin, all porcelain and ceramic crowns. Each type of crown has different benefits for each person and can be chosen depending on the situation and the tooth.

Metal (gold alloy, other alloys or a base metal alloy)

Metal crowns require less tooth structure to be removed during the prepping process, the wear to opposing teeth is minimal and they can withstand biting and chewing forces well, lasting the longest in terms of wear. Metal crowns rarely chip or break although aesthetically are not ideal, especially for anterior teeth.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal

These crowns are colour matched to the adjacent teeth, making them a good choice for both anterior and posterior teeth. They do however cause more wear to opposing teeth compared to metal or resin crowns. These crowns look most like a normal tooth, although the underlying metal can show through as a dark line especially around the gums and can also chip or break off with time.

All-resin

All-resin crowns are less expensive than other types, they can be colour matched to adjacent teeth and are good for front teeth. They do however wear down over time and are more prone to fractures compared to other materials.

All-ceramic or All-porcelain

These crowns have a better natural colour match than any other type of crown material. They are most suitable for people with metal allergies, however, are not as strong as porcelain-fused-to-metal. They will wear down opposing teeth more than metal or resin crowns but are a good choice for anterior teeth.

 

There are two visits involved in the making of a crown, the first visit is to prepare the tooth and the second visit is the placement of the permanent crown.

The first visit is very important, it is where the dentist will prep the tooth for a crown to be fabricated to fit around the prepared tooth. Your dentist may want to take some x-rays to check the roots and also the vitality of the tooth. This also helps to identify whether there is any extensive decay or if the tooth is at risk of infection, if this is the case your dentist may need to perform a root canal treatment before commencing with the crown.

The tooth will be numbed so there will be no pain or sensitivity for the patient, the tooth will then be filed down along the chewing surface and the sides. The amount of tooth structure removed will be dependant on the type of crown material used as the thickness varies between materials.  

 

How Pregnancy affects your teeth and gums

Posted on 11.5.16 By Alf Le

Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase your susceptibility to developing gum disease. Here are some important things to keep in mind before, during and after pregnancy.

Before you get pregnant

preg-dentIf you are planning a pregnancy it is important to see your dentist for a professional clean and an oral health check. This way any problems you may have with your teeth can be treated in advance and prevent any major issues during the course of your pregnancy.

At Redcliffe Smiles, we will always endeavour to ensure that your oral health is in optimal condition before planning your pregnancy.

During Pregnancy

 It is still important to continue your routine maintenance visits, which can be performed at any point during your pregnancy.

Make sure to inform your dentist that you are pregnant. Provide a list of any medications, supplements or prenatal vitamins as well as the dosage that you are taking and any specific medical advice your doctor or obstetrician has given you. We may need to slightly alter your treatment plan based on this information.

Emergency procedures are still undertaken during pregnancy, to minimise the risk of transmission of infections to your baby. However, elective treatment is generally postponed until after delivery. There are nevertheless exceptions to this, feel free to get in contact with us if you have any questions.

You are still able to get dental x-rays during pregnancy. At Redcliffe Smiles, we will venture to minimise the use of dental X-Rays, especially whilst pregnant and use extreme caution to safeguard you and your baby. Our Surgery uses very low dose modern dental imaging technology, that exposes you to about 1/10 of the radiation of the traditional film X-rays.

Make sure you don’t skip your regular check-up because you are pregnant! They are even more important than usual, as the hormonal changes during pregnancy can put you at an increased risk of periodontal (gum) disease. It is not uncommon that a condition called pregnancy gingivitis can affect you during this time.

It is important that you pay particular attention to any changes in your gums during this time. If tenderness, bleeding or gum swelling occurs at any time. Please don’t hesitate to contact our team if you are unsure of anything.

Morning Sickness

If you are unable to brush your teeth throughout the day, then it is recommended to change to a bland tasting toothpaste, ask your dentist what they recommend. It is also good to rinse your mouth with water or a mouth rinse after vomiting to help wash away the acid on your teeth.

Diet

We all know cravings can be a pain during pregnancy but it’s good to avoid sugary snacks. The more frequently you snack, the greater the chance of developing tooth decay. A healthy, balanced diet is the key, as your baby’s first teeth begin to develop about three months into the pregnancy. Diets containing dairy products, cheese and yoghurt are a good source of these essential minerals and are good for babies developing teeth, gums and bones.

After Birth

If you experienced any dental problems during your pregnancy that haven’t been attended to or remain outstanding, see your dentist soon as possible after delivery. At Redcliffe Smiles, we want nothing more than for you to be able to keep your smile for life.

What are x-rays?

Posted on 10.10.16 By Alf Le

A dental radiograph, more commonly known as an x-ray, is formed by a controlled burst of X-ray radiation which penetrates oral structures at different levels. Dental caries, infections and other changes in the bone density are visible on these x-rays. They are used to give dentists a better understanding of what is happening in areas that aren’t visible by examining the mouth.

Why do dentists take x-rays?

There are many different types of dental radiographs, from periapical, bitewings to panoramic. Each different type is designed to look at specific sections of the tooth/mouth.

 

  • bitewingBitewing X-rays show the upper and lower back teeth and how the teeth touch each other in a single view. These X-rays are used to check for decay between the teeth and to show how well the upper and lower teeth line up. They also show a bone loss when severe gum disease or a dental infection is present.

 

  • periapicalPeriapical X-rays show the entire tooth, from the exposed crown to the end of the root and the bones that support the tooth. These X-rays are used to find dental problems below the gum line or in the jaw, such as impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts, tumours, and bone changes linked to some diseases.

 

  • panoramicPanoramic X-rays show a broad view of the jaws, teeth, sinuses, nasal area, and temporomandibular (jaw) joints. These X-rays do not find cavities. These X-rays do show problems such as impacted teeth, bone abnormalities, cysts, solid growths (tumours), infections, and fractures.

How often do we need to take x-rays?

Bitewing x-rays are generally taken on a patient’s first visit for a check-up and clean and every two years after that to monitor any tooth decay. Other x-rays are taken on patients when they are required depending on different circumstances.

Children and the Dentist

Posted on 09.27.16 By Alf Le

toothy-grin-1502299-639x424There is always questions revolving around children and when they should first start seeing a dentist. Dental hygiene and regular checkups are just as important for kids as they are for adults. Good oral hygiene habits should be ingrained in us when we are young as they are essential for not only developing teeth as well as our adult teeth. If we don’t take care of our baby teeth then we can incur problems with our permanent teeth once they have developed. So this begs the question, what age do we start bringing children to the dentist and what ways can we improve their oral health?

It is recommended that kids have their first oral health check by the age of two, although it can be good to bring them in earlier during your regular check-ups and cleans, as this will help to get them used to the environment. It is not necessary to bribe your kids to see a dentist as it shouldn’t be a daunting experience, it should be portrayed as positive, interesting and fun. Appointments earlier in the day are generally better as they won’t be too tired and will be more compliable. We want them to enjoy coming to see us as this helps to prevent issues in the future as they grow older.

We find that a lot of children are left to their own devices in regards to their oral hygiene, parents should be helping and continuing to teach them until at least the age of 7 or 8. The reason you need to be brushing for your kids until this age is because they don’t have the dexterity to be able to brush their teeth properly, after this age they should be able to do a sufficient enough job by themselves.  

tidy-teeth-1-1425487-640x480Children, like adults, need to be brushing their teeth at least twice a day as well as flossing. Although their baby teeth will eventually fall out, it is imperative to look after them whilst they have got them. Losing a baby tooth early can impact the development of the adult teeth, it is something that is preferably avoided. It is advisable to avoid sugary and processed food as this is a major cause of decay, especially in young children. Tap water is always a good option as it contains fluoride which helps developing teeth to become strong and healthy.

If you have any further questions regarding children and the dentist, please don’t hesitate to ask our friendly staff. We will endeavour to be as helpful and insightful as possible. Remember the golden rule, prevention is better than a cure, it is much easier to maintain good oral hygiene than it is to fix an issue.

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