We are lucky that we live in an era where we have a large variety of materials available for use in the restoration of damaged teeth. Prices vary, but composites fillings (white fillings) can cost up to two times the price of silver fillings. White fillings are much more technique sensitive and require greater time […]
As of March 2012, artificially fluoridated drinking water is provided for 70% or more of the population in all Australian States and Territories. The acceptance of the benefits of water fluoridation occurred in Australia in December 1953, roughly two years after acceptance in the United States. Many of Australia’s drinking water supplies subsequently began fluoridation in […]
Today most dental emergencies occur as a result of dental trauma causing your tooth to break, crack, become loosened, or knocked out completely. Sometimes dental crowns come off of teeth. Lips, gums, or cheeks can be cut. Dental emergencies can be avoided by taking simple precautions, such as wearing a mouthguard during sports activities involving […]
Once the dental pulp is compromised by bacteria infection and abscess formation is inevitable. Root canal therapy is necessary because the tooth will not heal by itself. Without treatment, the infection will spread, to the bone around the tooth and may lead to the eventual loss of the tooth. Pain usually worsens until one is […]
After receiving a composite restoration, you may experience postoperative sensitivity. The materials may continue to cure over 48hours and this produces some post placement discomfort. Another disadvantage relates to the shade of composite fillings over time. The shade can change slightly if the patient drinks tea, coffee or other staining foods. Composites tend to wear […]
Dentures may replace all or some of your teeth. Irrespective of the type of denture you have, all dentures are fantastic plaque, bacteria and food traps. Food feed bacteria and if you have any teeth remaining predisposes those teeth to further decay and possible further tooth loss. Remove and brush the denture daily with a […]
Many first visits are nothing more than introductory icebreakers to introduce your child to the dentist and the practice. Every effort should be made to make the appointment fun and non threatening. If your child is frightened, uncomfortable or non-cooperative, it may be necessary to reschedule the appointment. Patience and calm on the part of […]
Good parenting starts by leading by example. My 14 month old watched me brush my teeth and now wants to do the same. He enthusiastically points to the tooth brush whenever he is in the bathroom. He may not be effectively cleaning his teeth but the habit is being established. Brushing teeth after meals, regular […]
Amalgam materials have been successfully used for over 100 years. Disadvantages of amalgam include possible short-term sensitivity to cold after the filling is placed, which is also true of other dental materials. The silver-colored filling is not as natural looking as one that is tooth-colored and might be visible when you laugh or talk. To […]
A child’s first permanent tooth erupts into the mouth at approximately 6 years of age. It is most susceptible to decay at this time. The eruption of the first permanent tooth occurs at a time when the child skill in cleaning their teeth has not been fully developed. If the child has been exposed to […]
