dental implant surgery procedure

How Long Does Dental Implant Treatment Take? 

What’s involved with dental implant treatment? How long does the whole process take? Let’s take a look at dental implants in a bit more detail below.

There is no doubt that dental implants have taken the world by storm. Thanks to the natural way they permanently remain intact, why doesn’t everyone consider it for filling missing gaps?

Unanswered questions, like how long does dental implant treatment take, can prevent individuals from indulging this option. However, this should not be a problem for long, because this article answers several important questions you might have.

In fact, this quick guide covers the following questions:

  • How long does dental implant treatment take?
  • Can everyone get dental implants?
  • What does a dental implant consist of?
  • How long does an implant last?
  • Is it really so expensive?

The Treatment Time

When it comes to establishing the treatment time for dental implants, the typical answer is a few months. This is because different elements influence how long treatment is ultimately going to take.

For example, how many implants need to be placed? Or will new mini-implants be used, which are quicker than conventional implants?

Remember that there is a healing process involved after the titanium screw has been placed. And only if the healing process goes well can the procedure be finalised. Overall, a few months seems to be the safest answer.

Most People Qualify For Dental Implants

In most cases, it should not be a problem to qualify for dental implants. Unfortunately, some individuals can face certain complications. These complications might hinder the treatment time.

A good example of this is when bone grafting is necessary. Given that missing teeth eventually lead to bone-density loss in the jaw, it makes it harder to get an implant. This is also why dentists recommend acting quickly once a tooth goes missing.

Then there is the matter of gum health. It is very important that the patient receiving the implants does it with healthy gums.

The Basics Of A Dental Implant

Many people wonder how dental implants work. In basic terms, a titanium screw gets placed underneath the gumline. The purpose of the screw is two-fold.

Firstly, it needs to fuse with the jawbone to make it permanent. Secondly, it serves as a platform for the crown that needs to be placed.

Of course, the procedure for the dentist is much more complicated. However, if there is anything important to take note of, the dentist or cosmetic surgeon will be more than happy to assist.

It Is Permanent

Another common question is how long you can enjoy your implants once they are placed? The reality is that implants last for years and years. The titanium screw is perfectly safe and does not cause any problems down the line.

The crown itself can be filled and fixed like the rest of your teeth. In fact, the crown can even be replaced as the screw stays in place.

In terms of looking for a permanent solution, it does not get more permanent than dental implants. They are natural, convenient, and nobody will be able to tell the difference.

Dental Implants Are Not As Expensive As People Think

It is common for people to associate dental implants with high costs. However, the truth is that implants are cost-effective in the long run.

Coming back to the point of losing bone-density when the root of the tooth is missing, it transforms the jawbone over time. And if you are using dentures, you will constantly have to get them adjusted.

With implants, the initial treatment will also be the final treatment. The maintenance is based on simply practising good oral health. Brush and floss regularly, keep to those annual checkups with your dentist, and basically enjoy your implants for life.

If you need to visit a dentist for advice on dental implants or any type of dental procedure, then look no further than Gardens Dental.

Gardens Dental offers a full array of dental services in Taylors Lakes and Caroline Springs to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth. 

To learn more about our services or make an appointment, please contact us today on (03) 9449 2626 or through our website

dental crowns procedure

What Does The Process Of Getting A Dental Crown Involve?

Do you need a dental crown? What is the process of getting a dental crown? Let’s take a look in more detail at what’s involved.

A dental crown is effective in restoring a tooth that has been damaged due to an accident, injury or decay.

Dental crowns offer effective solutions to a wide range of dental issues such as supporting damaged or decayed teeth, covering a dental implant, protecting a tooth after a root canal procedure, and holding a cracked or broken tooth together.

You need at least two dental visits to get a dental crown. During the first visit, your dentist will examine the affected tooth and prepare it for the crown. They will take an impression of the tooth to construct the crown.

Your dentist may place a temporary crown during the first visit to protect the damaged tooth. The following explains the process of getting a dental crown including:

  • Taking an impression of the tooth during the first visit
  • Placing the permanent crown during the second visit
  • Same-day dental crowns

Taking An Impression Of The Tooth During The First Visit

The first visit to the dentist involves an inspection of the damaged tooth. Your dentist will take a dental x-ray of the affected tooth and jawbone to examine any sign of decay or injury to the tooth.

The dentist will shape the tooth to allow room for the dental crown to be placed. If you choose a metal crown, minimum reshaping is required because the metal crown is thinner compared to a porcelain crown.

Porcelain crowns need more structure removed to place the crown. Any tooth decay will be treated during the first visit to the dentist. If your tooth is severely decayed, it may have little structure to place the crown.

Your dentist will use a filling material to build up the structure of the tooth for the crown. The next step is to create an impression of the tooth to make the dental crown. An impression is made from a paste that holds the shape of the affected tooth.

A temporary crown will be placed on the tooth until the permanent crown is constructed.

Placing The Permanent Crown During The Second Visit

The impression of the tooth is sent to a dental laboratory to create the dental crown. Creation of the permanent crown will take at least 2-3 weeks. Once the crown is created, your dentist will place it over the reshaped tooth.

The temporary crown will be removed before placing the permanent crown. The colour and fit of the permanent crown should match the colour and fit of the natural tooth. Your dentist will check all this before cementing the new crown on the affected tooth.

Before cementing the crown, a local anaesthetic will be administered to the area to numb it. Dental cement is used to place the crown on the tooth.

Your dentist will check if there are issues with the patient’s bite and make the adjustments before permanently cementing the crown.

Same-Day Dental Crowns

Today, same-day dental crowns have become popular in most dental offices. The crown is created in the dental office without having to send it to a dental laboratory for creation. An impression is needed for this type of crown.

A scanning device (Wand) will be used to take pictures of the affected tooth. The image will be uploaded into computer software to create a 3D model of the affected tooth.

This will be used to create the crown the same day and it will save you a lot of time and money when it comes to placing the permanent dental crown.

If you need to visit a dentist for advice on dental crowns or any type of dental procedure, then look no further than Gardens Dental.

Gardens Dental offers a full array of dental services in Taylors Lakes and Caroline Springs to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth. 

To learn more about our services or make an appointment, please contact us today on (03) 9449 2626 or through our website

Custom Fitted Mouthguards

What Are The Benefits Of Custom Fitted Mouthguards?

Do you wear a mouthguard for either sport or medical purposes? Have you tried to wear a custom-fitted mouthguard? Let’s take a look at these now on more detail.

Mouthguards play an important part in protecting your teeth and gums while playing sports.

The Australian Dental Association recommends that you wear a custom-fitted mouthguard when participating in sports such as hockey, boxing, basketball, rugby, martial arts, gymnastics, skiing, skateboarding, and snowboarding.

If you have to choose between a pre-made and custom-fitted mouthguard, you should always opt for the latter. That’s because of the numerous benefits offered by a custom-fitted mouthguard.

This article provides information on what are custom-fitted mouthguards and their benefits.

  • What are custom-fitted mouthguards?
  • Benefits of custom-fitted mouthguards

What Are Custom-Fitted Mouthguards?

Mouthguards come as pre-made and custom-fitted. The mouthguard you buy at the sports shop is pre-made. It’s a one-size-fits-all mouthguard. This type of guard won’t protect your teeth and gums because it isn’t made to precisely fit your mouth.

A pre-made mouthguard is better than not having one at all. The jaw, teeth, and mouth vary is size and shape from person to person. That’s why pre-made guards are not the best for you. However, a custom-fitted guard is specially made to fit your teeth and gums.

That’s why a custom-fitted guard is the best solution for you. Custom-made guards are designed with your dental history in mind. The dental laboratory will also take into consideration the sport you will be participating when making a custom-fitted guard.

Any braces or appliances you are wearing will also be protected with a custom-made guard. Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and send it to the dental laboratory where the mouthguard will be constructed.

This impression is a near-perfect model of your mouth. The laboratory will mould the material necessary for a proper fit. Once the guard is constructed, your dentist will examine it and make sure you are satisfied with the fit.

That’s why you need a custom-made mouthguard when playing sports.

Benefits Of Custom-Fitted Mouthguards

Comfort is an important benefit of wearing a custom-made mouthguard while playing sport. The mouthguard will be made from a direct impression of your mouth. There won’t be any bulk or unnecessary material left over.

The mouthguard will stay put in the mouth without having to close your mouth. It will make swallowing, breathing, and talking much easier compared to a pre-made guard. Custom-made mouthguards are more comfortable than any other mouthguard on the market.

Children prefer to wear such a mouthguard because they will find them a very comfortable fit. Custom-made mouthguards are made for the exact sports activity you participate in. It’s not a one-size-fits-all guard which you wear for all sports activities.

Sports activities like boxing and hockey need the right thickness to handle the impact of the activity. The correct thickness of the mouthguard is important when designing it That’s where a custom-made mouthguard comes in handy.

It is made to the correct thickness to protect the teeth and gums of the wearer. A custom-made mouthguard offers the maximum protection for your mouth. It will protect all of the teeth from impact.

It can absorb the shock, distribute the impact, and protect your mouth in the process. It also protects the appliances you may have in your mouth such as braces and retainers.

That’s why you need to invest in a custom-made mouthguard when participating in contact sports. If you need to visit the dentist for advice on custom made mouthguards or any type of dental procedure, then look no further than Gardens Dental.

Gardens Dental offers a full array of dental services in Taylors Lakes and Caroline Springs to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth. 

To learn more about our services or make an appointment, please contact us today on (03) 9449 2626 or through our website

The Right Teeth Whitening Questions You Should Be Asking

Are you planning to have a teeth whitening procedure performed? Do you have any questions about the procedure that you need answered? Well, here are some of the teeth whitening questions you should be asking and the right answers to such questions.

1. Am I covered by insurance?

No. Dental insurance will not cover your teeth whitening procedure. That’s because teeth whitening is considered as a cosmetic dental procedure. It’s a pertinent question to ask to avoid any payment hassles once the procedure is completed.

2. Should I expect any risks after the teeth whitening procedure is completed?

Teeth whitening has 2 side effects that are temporary. These include mild irritation of the soft tissue of your mouth, especially the gums, and increased tooth sensitivity.

You should expect these side effects to disappear a few days after the treatment is completed. Here are some of the ways you can reduce tooth sensitivity if you experience it once the procedure is completed.

• You should wear the tray for a shorter period such as 2 half-hour sessions rather than an hour.

• Also, you should stop whitening your teeth for 2 to 3 days to allow them to adjust to the process.

• Ask your dentist to prescribe a product with high-fluoride content to remineralise your teeth. Make sure you apply this product to the tray and wear it about 4 minutes prior to or following the whitening agent.

• You should brush your teeth using toothpaste manufactured specifically for sensitive teeth. Most of these kinds of toothpaste have potassium nitrate which can soothe the nerve endings of your tooth.

3. Will my enamel be damaged after teeth whitening?

Most of the teeth whitening products contain 10% carbamide peroxide. Studies have revealed that the compound has no effect on the hardness or the mineral content of the enamel on your teeth.

4. Is there any damage to the existing dental restorations or the nerves on your teeth?

A lot of studies have been conducted to identify if teeth whitening causes damage to the nerves on your teeth. There is no evidence from these studies that provides proof of damage.

On the other hand, studies were also conducted to identify if there is any damage to the existing fillings, veneers, bridges, crowns and other dental restorations. Keep in mind that these restorations don’t lighten together with the rest of the teeth.

Therefore, you might be forced to replace any pre-existing dental work to match the new shade of your teeth.

5. How long does the teeth whitening effect last?

Once you have paid for your first teeth whitening procedure, you should know that it’s not permanent. If you expose your teeth to any beverages or foods that might stain them, this will result in your teeth fading within a month.

If you avoid this, you should be able to wait at least a year or more before you need another whitening procedure or touch-ups.

6. What can I do to maintain my bright smile after completing a whitening procedure?

• Make sure you don’t expose your teeth or consume products that might stain them. If you can’t avoid foods that may stain your teeth, you should use a tray so the liquid bypasses the front part of your teeth.

• You should follow proper hygiene practices. Make sure you brush your teeth at least 2 times every day and floss at least once every day to remove plaque.

Conclusion

Teeth whitening has become a very popular cosmetic dental procedure. Make sure you understand what you are getting yourself into by asking all the necessary questions before and after the procedure.

If you need to visit the dentist for advice on teeth whitening, or any type of dental procedure, then look no further than Gardens Dental.

Gardens Dental offers a full array of dental services in Taylors Lakes and Caroline Springs to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth. 

To learn more about our services or make an appointment, please contact us today on (03) 9449 2626 or through our website

wisdom tooth extraction

What To Expect Before, During And After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

What happens when you get a wisdom tooth extracted? What can you expect after such a serious procedure? Let’s take a look in more detail below.

Wisdom teeth normally appear between the ages of 17 and 25, a period that is known as attaining ‘the age of wisdom’ – although they have nothing to do with providing wisdom.

Your local dentist may be the first to break the news during a routine inspection that a wisdom tooth is starting to breakthrough.

Not everyone develops this third set of molars but the average person normally produces four wisdom teeth and according to statistics at least 90% experience one or more impactions.

Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there is not enough space for the tooth to break through the gum causing pain, extreme discomfort, and other dental health risks. The worst thing a person can do is to ignore them.

Do Wisdom Teeth Have a Purpose?

Humans from prehistoric times had stronger, larger jaws and a third set of molars to help them chew through raw meat and tough plant matter.

They also tended to lose their teeth so a third set of molars developed at around 6 years of age ensuring that there was enough room for a second set to grow at age 12.

Fast forward through evolution to today and we find that the modern jaw size now has less space for wisdom teeth to erupt and they have a less functional purpose.

When to Have a Wisdom Tooth Extracted?

One of the main reasons for wisdom tooth extraction is when the tooth has become impacted or has erupted abnormally. The first symptoms are swelling, pain, and limited jaw mobility.

However, most people don’t experience any symptoms but it can still be problematic as wisdom teeth that do not grow in alignment with the rest of the teeth will not only cause tooth and gum problems but can also affect overall health.

Impacted teeth can lead to cysts, infection, and, most importantly, damage to adjacent teeth and proper jaw alignment.

If a wisdom tooth has room to erupt and is disease-free, it may be okay to leave it alone providing regular check-ups are carried out to track if there is any movement that will affect teeth alignment and there is no sign of disease.

The best age to remove wisdom teeth is during the teenage years as they present the least complications while the roots are not yet fully developed. As teeth continue to grow the roots become more established and reposition themselves.

As we get older extraction and related risks like injuring a nerve increases and after the age of thirty to forty and the recovery period tends to get longer.

What to Expect Before, During and After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Examination

It all starts with a proper examination that includes an X-ray to determine how the tooth is positioned and what procedure needs to be followed.

If it is a straightforward procedure the extraction will be carried out by an oral surgeon or you will be referred to a specialist if there is a risk of complications.

Sedation

A form of numbing medication will be applied depending on how difficult the procedure will be and also how nervous you are.

Depending on the type of anaesthesia you may be asked to avoid food and drink for a number of hours before surgery. Sedation includes:

  • Local anaesthesia where you will stay awake and feel a certain amount of pressure but no pain
  • Sedation where you will still be awake but experience lessened consciousness so that you won’t remember much
  • General anaesthesia where you will be completely knocked out.

Removal

The surgeon will make use of special instruments to disconnect the surrounding tissue before removing the tooth. Gauze plugs will be applied to promote blood clotting and help the wound heal faster. If necessary the surgeon will stitch the site up.

Recovery

After the procedure, you will be encouraged to take things easy for a while to allow yourself to heal. Depending on the type of sedation, you may feel a little groggy and need someone to take you home.

You will experience swelling and pain after the procedure and the surgeon will prescribe pain medication.

Your level of pain and discomfort will depend on how many teeth you had removed, whether they were impacted or not, and your personal sensitivity to pain.

Home Care

Barring complications, the pain will get better after a day or two. Ice packs can be applied to help relieve swelling and pain and to reduce the risk of bruising. You may be cautioned to eat only soft foods for a period of time.

Complications

Dry socket is one of the most common complications of wisdom tooth extraction and it is vitally important to follow post-procedure instructions carefully to avoid the excruciating pain from this condition.

You should stay hydrated and using a straw for a week or so may be recommended. However, using a straw for a long period of time may cause ‘dry socket’ to develop which is a very painful condition.

Dryness can cause the clot that formed over the extraction area to become dislodged, exposing nerves and bare bone, so can cleaning your mouth too forcefully or too soon after surgery.

In some cases removing wisdom teeth is essential; however, it is highly recommended to have them removed when you are younger rather than waiting until problems occur. The older the tooth the more difficult it becomes to remove.

Talk to your dentist if you are not sure whether you should have your wisdom teeth removed and why.

If you need to visit the dentist for advice on your wisdom teeth, or any type of dental procedure, then look no further than Gardens Dental.

Gardens Dental offers a full array of dental services in Taylors Lakes and Caroline Springs to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth. 

To learn more about our services or make an appointment, please contact us today on (03) 9449 2626 or through our website

regular dental check up

What Happens At A Dental Check-Up And Cleaning?

What actually happens when you go for a dental check-up? Let’s take a look at what happens at a dental check-up and how often you should have one.

Over 80% of Australians visit their dentist at least once a year for a dental check-up and clean. However, most people don’t have an idea about what to expect when they go for a dental check-up and clean.

Having someone work inside your mouth can cause a lot of stress if you don’t know what to expect when you are in the dental chair. This article provides information on what happens at a dental check-up and clean.

  • Say hello to the receptionist at the dental office
  • Meet the dental hygienist
  • Oral examination
  • Dental exams and x-rays
  • Results of the check-up

Say Hello To The Receptionist At The Dental Office

The receptionist is the first person who will greet you during a dental check-up and clean appointment. They will coordinate appointments and payments and make things flow smoothly during the appointment.

Make sure you greet the receptionist as soon as you enter the dental clinic because you should build a good relationship with them to help facilitate your future appointments.

They will notify you when you are supposed to come for the next appointment.

Meet The Dental Hygienist

The dental hygienist is the next person to greet you during the dental check-up and clean. You will be spending most of your time with this professional.

Dental hygienists are trained dental professionals who will take care of routine dental check-ups on behalf of patients. They will also assist the dentist in other dental procedures. A hygienist is an integral part of any dental set-up in Australia.

They make up a big part of the dental team that helps keep your oral health at its best.

Oral Examination

The dental hygienist will ask you about your medical history before performing any dental work on you. If you have been to the practice before, they will want to know if there have been any changes to your situation.

You should inform the hygienist if you have diabetes, arthritis, heart conditions or any other condition. They should also know about your mental health – whether you have depression, anxiety or panic attacks.

Once you share your health concerns, the hygienist will start to work on your teeth. They will clean your teeth by scraping off the plaque and tartar from the teeth. They will use teeth polisher to give your teeth a smooth and shiny finish.

Once they examine the teeth, the hygienist will have a look at any problems you may have in your mouth. The hygienist will examine your gums and other tissues in the mouth to see if there are any concerns.

Dental Exams And X-Rays

The dental exam is done by a qualified dentist. A dental x-ray will be taken to see if there are issues below the surface of your gums.

The dentist will use the x-ray to see if there are issues like loss of jawbone, fractures, and other oral abnormalities below the visible gum line. They will also look for problems such as teeth grinding, teeth alignment, and oral cancer.

Once all this has been done, the dentist will have a complete understanding of your oral health. They will prescribe treatments for any dental issue you may have.

Results Of The Check-Up

Once the check-up is complete, your dentist will let you know what exactly is going on in your mouth. They will advise about the next step you need to take. The final step is to let you know when your next dental appointment is going to be.

If you need to visit the dentist for a check-up or any type of dental procedure, then look no further than Gardens Dental.

Gardens Dental offers a full array of dental services in Taylors Lakes and Caroline Springs area to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth. 

To learn more about our services or make an appointment, please contact us today on (03) 9449 2626 or through our website

When Is a Toothache Considered an Emergency Situation?

Are you experiencing a toothache? Is the pain starting to occur on a more regular basis? It’s time you visit the dentist before it becomes an emergency situation. If this sounds like you, you need to read this article.

Most people will experience some sort of pain or discomfort with their teeth from time to time.

While some minor toothaches may go away on their own after a few hours, other toothaches are much more severe and can cause chronic pain.

Knowing when a toothache has become an emergency situation is important because you will need to have your tooth examined immediately by a Taylors Lakes dentist and have it properly treated to avoid any potentially serious health problems.

The Pain Will Not Subside

If you happen to have a toothache that is causing you a lot of pain and the pain is not going away despite your best efforts, you may have an emergency on your hands. You may have attempted to take an over-the-counter pain reliever to get some relief.

However, if the over-the-counter medication didn’t provide you with the relief you were looking for and your tooth is still causing you pain and discomfort, you need to see an emergency dentist.

The emergency dentist will look at the tooth and then find out the cause of the pain, along with finding a proper solution like a filling, for example, to put a stop to that pain.

You should never try to ignore the pain, especially if it is getting worse.

You Are Having a Difficult Time Eating or Drinking Anything

When a toothache is causing so much pain that it becomes hard for you to eat or drink anything, you need to get help. You can’t go long without eating or drinking simply because your tooth is hurting.

No one wants to have to stop eating the foods they enjoy because they are experiencing excruciating pain each time that they take a bite out of something.

If you know that your toothache is getting in the way of you being able to enjoy a meal or even drink something cold or warm, you should contact an emergency dentist who can see you immediately to get to the bottom of the situation.

Your Gums or Cheeks Are Swollen Because of the Tooth

If your gums are swollen or if your cheeks are swollen because of your tooth, you should waste no time getting to a dental clinic. When swelling occurs, it could be a sign of inflammation and infection.

To reduce inflammation and if you have an infection, you may need to take antibiotics for the infection to clear it up. When an infection is not properly treated, it can lead to serious health problems. It is simply not worth the health risks that are involved.

Even if you are not completely sure if the swelling has anything to do with your teeth, you should still visit the dentist just in case. It is better to be safe and take precautionary measures.

When a toothache occurs, it has the potential to turn into a serious situation.

Not only do toothaches often cause excruciating pain that is difficult to manage, but they can also lead to other serious health problems, especially if an infection is spreading inside your mouth.

It goes without saying that you do not want to take risks and continue to deal with pain for days or weeks on end. Therefore, it is best to see an emergency dentist for help with your tooth.

The dentist will be able to find out why you are experiencing such aches in the first place and then provide treatment options while making sure they eliminate the pain for you.

Are you looking for an emergency dentist for your teeth? If so, then look no further than Gardens Dental. Gardens Dental offers a full array of dental services in Taylors Lakes and Caroline Springs area to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth. 

To learn more about our services or make an appointment, please contact us today on (03) 9449 2626 or through our website. 

 

Dental Implant Surgery inserts

Dental Implant Surgery: What To Expect? 

Do you require dental implant surgery? Do you know what to expect and how it will help you and your smile? Please read below for more detail.

Dentistry has come a long way over the years, especially with the advent of technology. Most people these days will vouch for the fact that visits to the dentist are not nearly as uncomfortable as they used to be. 

These technological advancements are even more pronounced when it comes to procedures such as dental implant surgery

If you need a permanent solution for missing teeth, you can simply make use of dental implants. This is the most natural way to replace a gap in your teeth. 

Not only does it always stay in place, but it blends in perfectly with the remaining natural teeth. More importantly, the titanium screw fuses with the jawbone. 

This prevents the jawbone from going through changes due to bone density loss – which happens when a tooth is missing. 

Following is what you can expect with dental implant surgery.

The Consultation  

The first order of business is to talk with a specialist. It is important to discuss the best options for the given circumstances and what everything will potentially cost. 

And after sorting out the details and getting all the crucial information, it is time for the next step.  

The Evaluation 

Even though most candidates qualify for dental implants, there are certain exceptions. This is why a specialist will do a proper evaluation before going through with any type of surgery. 

They will need to establish whether the candidate has good oral healthOtherwise, a treatment cycle might be necessary before the surgery can happen. All of these things are addressed during the evaluation. 

Placing The Screw 

When the first phases are through, it is time for the actual surgery to take place. However, it should be noted that implants usually require more than one visit to the dentist. 

This is because the titanium screw needs to fuse with the jawbone first, which takes time. Only after the screw is ready and stable can the tooth be placed. 

The average waiting time for the jawbone to fuse with screw is several weeks. However, a more approximate time should be given by the specialist installing the implants.  

Placing The Tooth 

Placing the tooth is usually regarded as the second phase of the surgery. And as expected, the tooth is specifically moulded and created to appear natural. 

At no point will anyone be able to tell whether the tooth is authentic or not. Of course, every specialist will have a different approach in terms of fixing the tooth, but the end result remains the same. 

And from this point on, it is a matter of maintaining the implant with brushing, flossing, and annual visits to the dentist. 

Recovery 

Candidates that eventually get an implant will notice a slight discomfort at first. This can be expected given the titanium screw underneath the gumline. 

This acts like a typical root for the tooth and does not have any adverse effects, even after twenty years in the same place. All in all, you should prepare for more than one visit over the course of several weeks. 

However, after the final part of the surgery is finished, there should not be any problems with eating or smiling with confidence. 

New Technology Makes Implants More Convenient 

This is definitely not the first article about dental implants. Which means the techniques for the surgery have improved over time. 

For example, newer and smaller screws can be used. These are easier to place and join with the jawbone, and it only shows one of the many advancements already present in dentist clinics.

The risks are low, the solution permanent, and the final result is as natural as a fake tooth can get. Even though it is not an overnight procedure, those gaps can be filled fairly quickly by the right people.

Do you have any missing or damaged teeth that need replacement? If so, then look no further than Gardens Dental. Gardens Dental offers a full array of dental services in Taylors Lakes to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth. 

To learn more about our services or make an appointment, please contact us today on (03) 9449 2626 or through our website.

dental crown procedure

What Are Dental Crowns And How Do They Work?

Are you in need of dental crowns? Do you actually know what the procedure is and how they work? Let’s take a look in more detail in the article below.

Crown restoration is a common dental procedure performed by dentists in Australia. Most people don’t understand the actual reason for this dental procedure. They are intimidated by the prospect of having a crown restoration. 

The procedure is straightforward and logical. Dental crowns play an important part in improving the function of your teeth. This article provides information on what are dental crowns, and how they work. We will cover the following topics:

  • What Are Dental Crowns?
  • When Do You Need A Dental Crown?
  • How Does A Dental Crown Work?
  • How Is A Dental Crown Installed?

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are restorations that help restore a damaged tooth to its original size and shape. The crown is installed on a cracked or damaged tooth. 

The dental crown will replace the outer part of the natural tooth – although it sometimes extends onto the tooth root. 

The crown will fully encase the outer part of the natural tooth when restored properly. They are custom made so that they fit over each tooth perfectly. 

Dental crowns are made from different materials such as porcelain, ceramics, gold, resin, and porcelain-and-metal.  

When Do You Need A Dental Crown? 

Dental crowns are used to protect weak teeth in your mouth. They are also used to restore cracked, broken, and damaged teethDental crowns will restore the appearance, functionality, shape, size, and alignment of a damaged tooth. 

Crowns become the only visible part of your tooth once they are cemented in place. Dental crowns are made to mimic your natural teeth. Thay way they don’t stand out or look odd compared to the other teeth in your mouth.   

How Does A Dental Crown Work?

Dental crowns fit over the top of your natural teeth. They are placed over damaged and cracked teeth to protect the remaining part of the natural tooth. 

Once the crown is cemented on top of the damaged tooth, it will hold the tooth together and keep it from breaking apart. Your bite, tooth alignment, and appearance will improve as a result. Dental crowns are made of strong and resilient materials. 

They can withstand the pressures of chewing just like the other natural teeth in your mouth. The crown is similar to a cover on top of the visible part of a tooth. 

Once your cosmetic dentist cements the crown on top of the damaged part of the tooth, it will become a part of the natural tooth.

How Is A Dental Crown Installed?

The cosmetic dentist will apply an anaesthetic to the damaged tooth and the adjoining gum tissue. A dental drill will be used to remove the cracked or damaged part of the natural tooth. 

The damaged tooth will be drilled so that there is enough room for the dental crown. If you don’t have enough tooth to support the crown, the dentist will add a crown buildup to create the appropriate foundation for the dental crown. 

During the first appointment, the dentist will use a digital scanner to make an impression of the damaged tooth and send it to the dental laboratory to make the crown. 

It may take a couple of weeks to make the crown. Your dentist will install a temporary crown during this period. 

Your second appointment is when the dental crown arrives at the dentist’s office. The new crown will be installed after removing the temporary crown. The dentist will use a special cement to fix the crown over the natural tooth and that’s the job done!

Are you in need of dental crowns and need some advice on dental crowns? If so, then look no further than Gardens Dental. Gardens Dental offers a full array of advice and dental services in Taylors Lakes to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth. 

To learn more about our services or make an appointment, please contact us today on (03) 9449 2626 or through our website.

Mouthguards gum damage

Can Using Mouthguards Cause Damage to Your Gums?

Do you use a mouthguard? Do you know if this can actually be causing damage to your gums and teeth? Let’s take a look at this in more detail.

Mouthguards are often used by people who grind their teeth at night. They are a useful tool for protecting tooth enamel from long-term damage. 

They are also used by people who play contact sports in order to protect their teeth in the event of an impact to the mouth or jaw. 

However, they are not without problems. It is important that you use a mouthguard as directed, and clean it properly, to protect your oral health.

What are the Dangers of Mouthguards

Aside from playing sport, mouthguards are designed to treat a condition called bruxism. However, they are not a one-stop solution for oral health. 

You should make sure that you brush your teeth before you put your mouthguard in, and also make sure that you keep the mouthguard clean. 

A mouthguard can harbour bacteria which can cause gum disease.

Can Mouthguards Make Your Gums Recede?

If you use a mouthguard properly, then it should actually protect your gums, rather than damage them. If, however, you use a dirty, damaged or ill-fitting mouthguard then you could actually be damaging your gums.

Some people who are nervous about going to the dentist, or who think that they cannot afford to go to the dentist, will wear stock mouthguards that are cheap but are ‘one size fits most’. 

These may offer some protection from griding, but they do not fit well and they can make it hard for people to breathe normally while they are in. 

In addition, they can be hard and uncomfortable and may irritate the gums, making them at greater risk of infection. There are ‘boil and bite’ mouth protectors, which are often used by young athletes who play contact sports. 

These are better than a stock mouthguard, and they could be used to manage bruxism. However, they are thicker and heavier than the mouthguards that a dentist would usually provide if you grind your teeth, so they are not the ideal option.

Custom-fit mouthguards are a more expensive up-front investment, but they are more comfortable and are gentler on your gums, too. 

Custom-fit mouthguards allow you to breathe comfortably and even talk while they are in. You may need them refitted every year or so, but it is well worth the expense to get something that is kinder to the delicate tissue in your mouth.

Caring for a Mouthguard

To reduce the risk of infection or gum damage, we recommend that people clean their mouthguard between use. Simply rinse it with mouthwash before and after wearing it. 

In addition to the daily cleaning, it’s a good idea to clean the mouthguard with warm soapy water on a regular basis. 

You don’t need to scrub the mouthguard particularly vigorously, because this could actually damage it, creating small scratches where more bacteria could live. Keeping it generally clean, however, is important.

Don’t Neglect Dental Check-Ups

Regular dental health check-ups are a must for everyone, but particularly for people who suffer from bruxism. 

It is important that you wear a mouthguard that properly covers all of your teeth, and that you have regular checkups to ensure that your ‘bite’ is not shifting over time because of an ill-fitted mouthguard. 

We recommend that people get their mouthguards checked regularly, to ensure that they still fit properly and that they are not damaging their gums. We also recommend that people see a hygienist regularly to ensure that their gums are in good health.

When it comes to the health of your teeth and gums, it really is true to say that prevention is better than cure. Getting corrective dental treatment is expensive and can be painful in some cases. 

Taking a few moments a couple of times a year to ensure that everything is OK, and to catch issues early, is a much better option. Are you concerned about the effect of mouthguards on your teeth and gums? If so, then look no further than Gardens Dental.

Gardens Dental offers a full array of advice and dental services in Taylors Lakes to help you and your family maintain healthy teeth. 

To learn more about our services or make an appointment, please contact us today on (03) 9449 2626 or through our website.