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dentist treats cavity between molars
By Gardens Dental October 12, 2019 News , , , ,

How Does A Dentist Treat Cavities Between Molars?

Have you ever wondered how your dentist treats a cavity between molars? Detecting a cavity between molars is hard enough let alone treating them. Let’s take a look at how this is done in the article below.

A cavity between two teeth – whether between two molars or other teeth – is known as an interproximal cavity. If you have ever had a cavity, the chances are you have had an interproximal cavity.

Interproximal cavities form just like any other because of the wearing away of the enamel on one or more teeth. This will let the bacteria stick to the teeth and cause the cavity.

The only issue with cavities between molars is they are hard to prevent and cannot be easily detected. Good oral hygiene is essential to prevent such cavities. Let’s now take a look at the following in more detail:

  • Why are cavities between molars harder to prevent?
  • What are the symptoms of cavities between molars?
  • What should you do if you have a cavity between molars?
  • How does a dentist treat a cavity between molars?

Why Are Cavities Between Molars Harder To Prevent?

Cavities between molars or interproximal cavities can form even if you brush your teeth twice a day. No amount of brushing can effectively clean away the bacteria and plaque that can amass between two molars.

When you neglect regular flossing habits, plaque buildup can result in sneaky cavities between two molars. Even if you brush twice a day regularly, cavities can form between molars unless you floss between the teeth daily.

The cracks and crevices between two molars can easily amass plaque and bacteria that results in cavities over time. Regular flossing will clean these areas and prevent sneaky cavities from forming between molars.

What Are The Symptoms Of Cavities Between Molars?

Interproximal cavities or cavities between molars exhibit a few common symptoms. The symptoms can occur only after the cavity has reached the dentin or the second layer of tissue behind the enamel of the tooth.

You may experience tooth sensitivity to hot/cold foods and beverages and sweets. You may also have trouble chewing food because of pain or discomfort in the region. These are some of the most common symptoms of cavities between molars.

What Should You Do If You Have A Cavity Between Molars?

A cavity between two molars is usually diagnosed through bitewing x-rays performed by a qualified dentist. When detected at an early stage, interproximal cavities can be recalcified with fluoride gel – only if the cavity has reached halfway into the enamel of the tooth.

If the interproximal cavity is much deeper than that, your dentist may choose to fill the affected tooth. When a cavity between two molars goes undetected for too long, it can become quite severe over time.

There are many other treatment methods to deal with severe cavities between two molars.

How Does A Dentist Treat A Cavity Between Molars?

When the interproximal cavity is detected at an early stage, your dentist may fill it like any other cavity. A dental filling will prevent the bacteria from further infecting the inside of the molar.

Your dentist will first numb the area and use a dental instrument to remove the decayed part of the tooth. Once the entire decayed area of the tooth is removed, the cavity is cleaned to create space for filling.

A tooth-coloured filling will be used to give the teeth a more natural look. When the decay is severe, your dentist will use a dental crown or a root canal to repair the tooth.

If you need to visit a dentist for cavity treatment 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. 

Mouthguards gum damage
By Gardens Dental August 11, 2019 News , , , ,

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.

Tooth Whitening kits at home
By Gardens Dental August 3, 2019 News , , ,

Dentists Warn Against Teens Using At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits

Have you ever tried DIY tooth whitening kits? Are you aware of the dangers, especially for teens? Let’s examine this in more detail below.

Teeth whitening has become the in-thing among teens and young adults. This dental treatment is now widely sought after by people who want brighter and more attractive smiles. 

While many people – especially adults – choose to visit their local dentists for teeth whitening procedures such as laser whitening or bleaching, other people – mainly teens and young adults – prefer to do it at home. 

This phenomenon has led to a dramatic increase in sales of DIY or at-home teeth whitening kits. The big question that immediately arises is “Are these kits safe?”.

Dentists Caution Teens On Use of DIY Teeth Whitening Kits

As more and more young people strive to keep up with the emerging beauty trends, the demand for at-home teeth whitening kits is not expected to decrease any time soon. 

Dentists have raised the alarm on the increase of unregulated and illegal at-home teeth whitening kits in the market. 

There is a massive amount of DIY teeth whitening products that are readily available in pharmacies and online stores, and the number is rapidly increasing. 

Some of these products include special tooth whitening toothpastes, over-the-counter whitening gels and strips, whitening gums, rinses, tray-based teeth whiteners and many others. 

So, why are dentists warning young people against rushing out to buy these products? Let’s take a look at some of the dangers of DIY or at-home teeth whitening kits.

1). Damage To Enamel

At-home teeth whitening kits usually promise amazing results within a few minutes. While some products can slightly improve the appearance of your teeth within a short period of time, most of them are usually not that effective. 

Instant whitening kits can cause irreparable damage to your enamel especially when overused. Unlike professional teeth whitening, DIY whitening products contain a corrosive substance known as chlorine dioxide.

Chlorine dioxide is the chemical used to sanitise swimming pools. The chemical may be effective in removing tough stains from the surface of your teeth, but it will also remove the top layer of your teeth which is the enamel. 

Removal of this layer leaves your teeth exposed to damage and infections.

2). Damage To Gums

Most DIY teeth whitening products also contain hydrogen peroxide. Products that have very high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide can injure the soft tissues in your mouth leading to severe gum damage and recession. 

Gum recession can expose the base of your teeth giving you an awkward smile which is the opposite of what you want. Hydrogen peroxide is also known to increase tooth sensitivity, making it uncomfortable to eat or drink very cold or hot things.

3). Chemical Burns

Some at-home kits come with mouthguards that you are supposed to wear for set periods in order to hold the active whitening ingredients in place for optimal results. 

Sadly, because most of these mouthguards are not prescribed by doctors, the active ingredients being held in place may spill over into the mouth leading to chemical burns and wounds. 

Any at-home teeth whitening kits that contain strong chemicals and active ingredients can cause severe chemical burns to your gums, tongue and other tissues in your mouth.

On top of this, chemicals that leak into your mouth may find their way into your bloodstream leading to negative side effects such as physical illness and even poisoning.

4). Mouth Infections

Dentists have established that many cases of mouth infections can be attributed to the use of DIY teeth whitening kits. Damage to enamel, damage to gums, chemical burns and wounds are all situations that can lead to mouth infections. 

Mouth infections occur when harmful bacteria finds its way to vulnerable parts of your mouth like an exposed tooth or gum.

Conclusion

All in all, it’s very important that teens and young adults use the proper means and treatments to whiten their teeth. Teeth whitening is by no means a bad thing, but it should be done the right way.

Are you looking to have your teeth professionally whitened? 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.