Dry Socket: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Dry socket is a complication that can happen after a tooth extraction. While this can be painful, there are things you can do to prevent dry socket from happening.
Amalgam removal: Should you remove your silver filings?
Decades ago, your dentist may have used amalgam to repair a cavity in a tooth. Today some patients are opting for amalgam removal.
Bruxism and Teeth Grinding: 7 Essential Things to Know
Occasional teeth grinding isn’t a problem, but chronic bruxism can lead to dental issues over time. Here’s how to know when grinding your teeth is a problem.
Tonsil stones: Causes, symptoms and removal
Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are small, hard, calcified deposits that form in the crevices of the tonsils. They are typically white or yellowish in colour and can range in size from tiny grains to larger than a pea.
Although tonsil stones are not harmful, they can cause discomfort, bad breath, and infection if left untreated. If you think you have tonsil stones, there are a few things you can do to remove them.
Find out what tonsil stones are, what causes them, the symptoms of tonsil stones, and how to remove them.
What are tonsil stones?
Our tonsils contain small crevices, tunnels and pits called tonsil crypts. Their job is to trap bacteria, germs and viruses so that your body can learn how to fight infection. Tonsils are an important player in building a healthy immune system. In some people, these crevices trap food, dead cells and other bacteria that can cause tonsil stones to form.
Most people have experienced swollen tonsils when they have a cold or flu. You might have even had tonsilitis before and noticed white veins on your tonsils. In both cases, your tonsils may appear larger, redder than usual and you may have trouble swallowing.
Tonsil stones look different to tonsilitis. Rather than white veiny marks on your tonsils, tonsil stones are small and round and may stick out from your tonsils. If you touch them, they will feel hard. Tonsil stones can be either smooth or rough in texture, and they can have a foul odor.
Causes of tonsil stones
The exact cause of tonsil stones is not entirely clear. What is known is that tonsil stones are made up of biofilm — surface-level microorganisms that can cause many types of oral diseases including periodontitis. As well as being caused by biofilm, possible causes of tonsil stones may include:
Poor oral hygiene:
Poor oral hygiene can lead to the buildup of bacteria and food particles in the mouth. This can cause food and debris to get stuck in the tonsil cavities and lead to the formation of tonsil stones.
Tonsil size:
Some people are more susceptible to developing tonsil stones than others. People with larger tonsils are more prone to developing tonsil stones because they have more crevices and pockets for debris to accumulate.
Chronic tonsillitis:
People with chronic tonsillitis, which is inflammation of the tonsils, may be more likely to develop tonsil stones. With more bacteria in the mouth, tonsil stones are more easily able to form.
Postnasal drip:
Postnasal drip occurs when excess mucus from the nose drips down into the back of the throat. This mucus can contain bacteria and other debris that can contribute to the formation of tonsil stones.
Diet:
A diet high in dairy and sugar may contribute to the development of tonsil stones because these foods can increase the amount of bacteria in the mouth.
The symptoms of tonsil stones
The symptoms of tonsil stones can vary from person to person. Some people may not experience any symptoms. Because stones can vary in size, it’s possible to not know you have tonsil stones at all. Common symptoms of tonsil stones include:
Bad breath:
Tonsil stones can cause bad breath, which can be difficult to treat with regular brushing and flossing. The odor is caused by the bacteria and debris that are trapped in the tonsil stones.
Sore throat:
Tonsil stones can cause discomfort and pain in the throat, especially when swallowing. The throat and tonsils may appear swollen, redder than usual and sore.
Difficulty swallowing:
Larger tonsil stones can make it difficult to swallow. Some people may feel as though something is stuck in their throat.
Ear pain:
Tonsil stones can cause ear pain or a feeling of fullness in the ear. This is because the tonsils and ears share nerve pathways.
A cough:
Tonsil stones can irritate your throat and make you feel like you constantly need to cough.
Tonsil stone complications
Tonsil stones rarely lead to complications. Bacteria from within the stones can lead to bad breath, halitosis and tooth decay. Very large stones that aren’t extracted can cause damage to the tonsil tissue if the tonsils develop an infection.
Most of the time, tonsil stones can be easily removed either at home or at a dentists office and infections although rare, can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics.
How to remove tonsil stones
Most of the time, tonsil stones will fall out on their own. If they’re uncomfortable, you may be able to remove them at home. Here are some of the most common methods for removing tonsil stones:
Gargling with salt water: Gargling with salt water can help to dislodge tonsil stones and reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth. To do this, mix one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds.
Using a cotton swab: You can try to remove tonsil stones using a cotton swab. Gently press on the tonsil area where the stone is located and try to dislodge it. Be careful not to push the stone deeper into the tonsil crevice.
Waterpik or oral irrigator: Using an oral irrigator or waterpik can be effective in dislodging and removing.
Visiting your dentist: If you can’t remove your tonsil stone and it’s causing you pain or discomfort, book an appointment with your dentist. At Gentle Dental, our friendly dentists use a light touch to put you at ease and can remove your tonsil stones with little discomfort.
Reduce gum disease with these 12 foods
Gum disease is a common problem that affects many New Zealand adults. Gingivitis, a mild form of the disease, often goes unnoticed. While gingivitis may not be painful, left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis, a destructive form of gum disease that isn’t reversible.
Good oral hygiene and professional dental care are key to treating early signs of gum disease, but did you know your diet plays an important part too?
A diet high in healthy foods works alongside good dental practices to help your body fight infections, keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent gum disease.
Can you prevent gum disease with a healthy diet?
You can reduce your chances of developing gum disease with a healthy diet, but a good diet will not make up for poor oral hygiene habits. While food can work as medicine, even healthy foods like vegetables, protein, lean meats, and healthy fats can lead to plaque and tartar buildup if you don’t brush your teeth.
On the other hand, if you brush and floss daily but consume a diet high in processed foods, acids and sugars, you can still develop gum disease. This is because the right foods help nourish our bodies and give our bodies the building blocks they need to fight off bacteria. A healthy diet can make our teeth and gums stronger and healthier the risk of developing gingivitis.
Nutrients that help the treatment of gum disease
The right foods can nourish our oral microbiome, which helps our bodies fight gum disease. If you have gum disease, adding more foods that are rich in the following nutrients will help.
Co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
Our body requires Co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) as an antioxidant for proper cell function. Studies show that people with high CoQ10 levels are less susceptible to gum disease. In fact, if you then develop gum disease, the concentration of CoQ10 increases in the gums to help slow inflammation.
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that helps maintain connective tissue health, including the gums. When you have gum disease, the body reorganises tissue to manage inflammation. This leads to collagen degradation.
Catechins
Catechins are phenols and antioxidants that help prevent gum inflammation and inhibit harmful bacteria, making them effective in treating gum disease.
Vitamin C
Research shows that low levels of Vitamin C are associated with gum disease. By boosting the immune system, Vitamin C aids in fighting bacteria causing the disease and regenerating gum tissue. Additionally, collagen maturation requires Vitamin C, which helps maintain healthy periodontal ligaments and other tissues.
Beta carotene
Beta carotene is a provitamin that the body converts to Vitamin A, and studies show that consuming foods rich in beta-carotene can aid in healing gum disease.
Omega-3s
Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory and necessary for a healthy immune system. A study has indicated that a higher intake of Omega-3s is inversely associated with gum disease.
Adding foods high in these nutrients will help your body fight gum disease more effectively. So too, will removing harmful foods from your diet. Eating less sugar and refined carbohydrates will help your body fight gum disease.
The best foods to eat if you have gum disease
Bone broth:
Bone broth is a good source of collagen, which is essential in fighting gum disease and for good tissue health.
Broccoli:
Broccoli is rich in Vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant in the body and is inversely associated with gum disease. It’s also a good source of other nutrients.
Cacao:
Cacao is high in disease-fighting catechins, fights cavities, plaque, and tooth decay, and contains a compound that hardens enamel.
Capsicums (red and green):
High in Vitamin C, capsicum are an easy way to boost your daily intake. Red capsicum contains over 300% of your daily recommended allowance of Vitamin C, and green capsicum contains over 200%.
Chicken:
Chicken contains CoQ10 and collagen, both excellent in fighting gum disease. The skin is a great source of collagen.
Grass-fed beef:
Grass-fed beef is a good source of collagen, which is essential in fighting gum disease. It’s also high in omega-3s and free from inflammatory, disease-causing components found in grain-fed beef.
Green tea:
Green tea is high in catechins and has an inverse relationship with periodontal disease. It’s a great alternative to sugary drinks.
Oily fish:
Salmon, herring, and mackerel are high in omega-3s and have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. They are also great for the immune system.
Omega-3-rich nuts and seeds:
Macadamia nuts, pistachios, and sesame seeds are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory effects on the body and an inverse relationship with gum disease.
Probiotic-containing foods:
Fermented foods like kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi support good bacteria in the mouth and reduce gingivitis and plaque buildup. They are also thought to suppress the growth of oral pathogens.
Shiitake mushrooms:
Shiitake mushrooms contain lentinan, which targets harmful gum disease-causing bacteria. They are also anti-inflammatory.
Sweet potatoes:
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which reduces inflammation and provides the body with the elements it needs to create Vitamin A. They are also high in other nutrients.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of gum disease, book an appointment with Gentle Dental now.
How much do dental crowns cost?
A tooth crown, also known as a dental crown, is a common dental treatment for restoring a broken or cracked tooth. Dental crowns are used to cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth, restoring their shape and function. While it’s important to understand the cost of a dental crown, you should also know what dental crown is, how it protects your tooth, and what to expect during the procedure.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a prosthetic device that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns are typically made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal, and are custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly. They can be used to cover teeth that are cracked, chipped, or severely decayed, and can also be used to strengthen a tooth after a root canal procedure.
Why do you need a dental crown?
There are lots of reasons why you might need a dental crown. Here are a few of the most common:
To protect a weakened tooth from further damage
To cover a tooth that is severely discolored or misshapen
To cover a dental implant or a tooth that has had a root canal procedure
To cover a tooth that has a large filling and needs additional support
How does the dental crown procedure work?
It usually takes two appointments before your dental crown is fully fitted. At your first appointment, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any decay or damage and filing it down so that the crown can fit on top. Your dentist will take an impression of your tooth and send it to a dental lab to create your custom crown. In the meantime, you will be given a temporary crown to protect your tooth.
During your second appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and replace it with your permanent crown. They will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit, and then cement the crown in place.
Does getting a dental crown hurt?
Getting a dental crown is not a painful experience. Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth before they begin the procedure. This will ensure that you do not feel any pain during the process of preparing your tooth for the crown.
Some patients may experience minor discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure, such as mild pain, soreness, or sensitivity to hot or cold foods or beverages. These symptoms usually subside within a few days, and over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage any discomfort.
If you experience severe pain or discomfort after getting a dental crown, it’s important to tell your dentist right away. This could be a sign of an infection or other complication that requires prompt treatment.
How long do dental crowns last?
Tooth crowns can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. You should brush and floss your teeth regularly, and avoid biting down on hard objects or using your teeth to open things. You should also visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
How much do dental crowns cost?
The cost of dental crowns in New Zealand can vary depending on a few factors, such as the type of material used, the location of the dental clinic, and the extent of the damage or decay. On average, dental crowns can cost between $1,200 and $2,500 per tooth in New Zealand.
Porcelain or ceramic crowns are usually more expensive than metal crowns, but they provide a more natural-looking result. If you require a crown for a front tooth, porcelain or ceramic crowns may be recommended to match the colour of your natural teeth.
Are dental crowns covered by insurance?
In New Zealand, most dental insurance policies provide partial coverage for dental crowns, with patients expected to pay the remaining amount. It is always best to check with your dental insurance provider to see what your plan covers.
It’s important to note that the cost of a dental crown is an investment in your oral health and can prevent further damage to your teeth in the long run. If you have any concerns about the cost of dental crowns or would like to discuss payment options, speak to your dentist.
Do different types of dental crowns cost more?
Yes, some types of dental crowns are more expensive than others due to the materials used and the manufacturing process involved.
Porcelain or ceramic crowns
Porcelain or ceramic crowns are typically more expensive than metal crowns because they require more time and skill to create a natural-looking tooth shape and color. These types of crowns are often recommended for front teeth where appearance is important.
Metal crowns
Metal crowns, such as those made of gold or silver, are usually less expensive than porcelain or ceramic crowns. While they may not provide the same natural-looking result, they are very durable and long-lasting.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns
Another type of dental crown is the porcelain-fused-to-metal crown, which combines the natural-looking appearance of porcelain with the strength and durability of metal. These crowns are often used for back teeth, where strength and durability are more important than appearance.
Zirconia crowns
Zirconia crowns are also gaining popularity due to their strength, durability, and natural-looking appearance. While they may be more expensive than metal crowns, they are less expensive than porcelain or ceramic crowns.
It’s important to note that the cost of a dental crown will depend on many factors, including the materials used, the location of the dental clinic, and the extent of the damage or decay. Your dentist can recommend the best type of crown for your needs and budget. Book a dental crown consultation with Gentle Dental now.
Do I need to see a dental hygienist?
Good oral hygiene isn’t just about brushing and flossing every day; it’s also about visiting your dental team regularly. While most people know it’s important to see their dentist, they’re less sure about the role a dental hygienist plays in oral care. Here’s everything you should know about visiting a dental hygienist.
What is a dental hygienist?
If you’ve never been to a dental hygienist, you’re not alone. Dental hygienists work alongside dentists and orthodontists to provide extra care to dental patients. Their role is to focus on preventing and treating oral health problems like gum disease, inflamed gums, loose teeth, receding gums or bad breath. Part of their role is to educate patients on caring for their teeth and gums. A typical appointment may involve your hygienist cleaning your teeth and offering advice around:
- Flossing more effectively
- Choosing the right toothbrush
- Preventing plaque buildup
- Using dental aids
Why should I see a dental hygienist?
Seeing a dental hygienist regularly is essential for a few reasons. While your at-home dental routine matters, it’s hard for even the most dedicated person to clean everywhere. Bacteria and plaque can build up between your back molars, under gums or behind bonded retainers. Once plaque has hardened into tartar, removing it with a toothbrush is impossible.
Another reason to see a dental hygienist is to treat gum disease. Signs of gum disease include bad breath, bleeding gums, sore or swollen gums, a receding gum line and loose teeth. You should see a dental hygienist immediately if you have any of these signs.
A hygienist will clean and treat your teeth and advise you on improving your oral health.
What happens at a hygienist appointment?
At an appointment, your dental hygienist will ask about your dental routine, what type of toothbrush you use and if you have any specific concerns, like bleeding when you brush or floss or a buildup of tartar. They will then examine your mouth and assess the health of your teeth before performing a clean, scale and polish.
Clean, scale and polish
Your hygienist will start removing any plaque and tartar using specialised tools like an ultrasound scraper to remove the bulk of the tartar. They will then use smaller hand-held instruments to remove stubborn remains and get between the teeth.
After they have removed all the tartar, your hygienist will polish your teeth. Polishing helps smooth the surface of your teeth and makes it harder for plaque to accumulate in the future. Polishing also helps remove stains and will leave your teeth whiter and shinier. During this stage, your hygienist will apply a special gritty toothpaste to your teeth and clean them with an electric toothbrush.
Once the cleaning is finished, your hygienist will ask you to rinse your mouth. Rinsing helps to get rid of any debris and leaves your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
Deep clean
Rather than a clean and polish, your hygienist might recommend a deep clean. A deep clean is a more intensive treatment that targets the area below the gum line. This treatment, also known as root planing and scaling, is typically recommended for people with periodontal disease. During a deep clean, your hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and the root surfaces of the teeth exposed beneath the gum line.
Your hygienist will also smooth out any rough spots on the roots of the teeth to prevent bacteria from accumulating and causing further damage. A deep clean may require multiple appointments and may be performed under local anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable.
A dental hygienist will recommend a deep clean based on your oral health needs. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices will prevent the need for a deep clean in the first place.
Pocket clean
Pocket cleaning involves cleaning the pockets between the teeth and gums when bacteria and plaque build up. This buildup causes inflammation and damage to the gums, leading to periodontal disease.
A pocket clean is usually only recommended for patients with periodontal disease. The procedure is important for maintaining good oral health and preventing further damage to the gums and teeth.
Fluoride treatment
Your hygienist may recommend fluoride treatment at the end of your appointment. A fluoride gel or varnish is applied to your teeth and helps to strengthen the enamel. This will also help protect your teeth from decay.
Advice and follow-up
Finally, your hygienist may advise on oral hygiene practices and recommend any additional treatment needed to maintain good oral health. Regular visits to the dental hygienist can help prevent gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues, making it an essential part of maintaining good oral health.
Does visiting the dental hygienist hurt?
Typically, scaling and polishing are not painful procedures. You might experience discomfort if you haven’t had a cleaning for a while. More intensive treatments like deep cleaning or dental pocket cleaning, use a local anesthetic to ensure you are completely comfortable and pain-free. You may feel some sensitivity after scaling, deep clean or pocket cleaning. This usually goes away after a few hours.
If you feel any discomfort or pain during any dental hygienist procedure, tell your hygienist so that they can make you more comfortable.
How often should I see a dental hygienist?
You should see a dental hygienist at least once a year. If you have a history of gum disease, some dentists may recommend that you make an appointment every six months. In between appointments, continue to brush twice a day and floss daily. This will prevent the need for restorative procedures in the future.
Need to book an appointment with a dental hygienist? Book in with Wellington’s gentlest dentists today.
How to floss your teeth the right way
Good oral hygiene goes further than just brushing your teeth. Daily flossing is a crucial part of maintaining good oral health, preventing gum disease and tooth decay. As well as daily flossing, it’s important to use proper technique to rid your mouth of plaque in all those hard-to-reach areas.
Why floss every day
Flossing every day is an essential part of looking after your teeth. Yet, despite being an easy task, many people overlook the importance of flossing and don’t include it in their daily routine. In fact, over 80% of kiwis don’t floss every day which means plaque and food debris could be building up in their mouths. Adding flossing to your daily routine has many benefits including:
Removing plaque and food particles: Brushing your teeth only cleans some of the surfaces in your mouth, leaving the spaces between your teeth uncleaned. Flossing allows you to reach these areas and remove plaque and food particles that can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Preventing gum disease: Plaque that isn’t removed by brushing and flossing can harden into tartar which can lead to gum disease. Flossing daily helps to remove this plaque as well as food particles that are stuck between your teeth. With plaque removed from these hard-to-clean places, you’re less at risk of developing gum disease.
Improving oral hygiene: Regular flossing helps to keep your mouth fresh and clean, and it helps to prevent bad breath caused by food particles and bacteria.
Increasing lifespan of your teeth: Regular flossing can help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can ultimately extend the lifespan of your teeth.
Supporting overall health: Maintaining good oral health is crucial for overall health. Studies have shown a link between oral health and other health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes. By flossing daily, you can help to prevent oral health problems that could potentially impact your overall health.
Flossing your teeth every day has lots of health benefits. However, not everyone knows how to floss effectively. Follow these tips to get the most out of your flossing routine.
How to get the most out of flossing
Choose the right type of floss: Floss comes in many different types, including waxed and unwaxed, flavoured and unflavoured, and dental tape. Choose a floss that feels comfortable on your gums. If you don’t floss often you may want to choose a floss with a flat rather than rounded tape shape. This can make flossing against your gums more comfortable and reduce bleeding.
Floss at a time that works for you: Flossing should become a part of your daily routine. Flossing before or after brushing your teeth is the easiest way to incorporate it into your routine. If you usually rush through your morning routine, schedule your daily floss in the evening. That way you won’t be tempted to skip this important step.
Use the correct technique: Hold the floss taut between your thumbs and index fingers, and gently slide it up and down between each tooth, being careful not to damage the gum tissue. Move the floss in a “C” shape around the base of each tooth, making sure to reach the gum line. Repeat this with each tooth, using a fresh section of floss.
Be gentle: Being gentle when flossing will avoid damage to your gums. Use a light pressure when guiding the floss between your teeth, and curve it gently around each tooth, taking care not to force it or snap it into your gums.
Don’t be afraid to use enough floss: Using too little floss will not effectively remove plaque and food particles. Aim to use about 30 centimetres of floss for each session.
Don’t forget the back teeth: Many people don’t floss their back teeth, but they are just as important as the front teeth. Use the same technique to floss between your back teeth, being careful not to miss any spots.
Rinse and repeat: After you’ve finished flossing, rinse your mouth with water to remove any remaining food particles or bacteria. Then, repeat the process on the other side of your mouth.
Make flossing a habit: Consistency is key when it comes to flossing. Make sure to floss every day and set aside a few minutes each day to focus on your oral hygiene routine.
How to floss if you have braces
Looking after your teeth when you have braces is important as food can get trapped more easily between the brackets and wires in your mouth. It’s not impossible to floss with regular floss when you have braces, however there are some products that make flossing easier.
Super floss
Dental superfloss is a thicker spongy type of floss that is designed for slipping between braces or under a dental bar on the back of your teeth. Rather than coming in a single continuous spool, super floss is cut into separate strands and each strand has two stiff ends. These thin hard plastic ends make it easy to slip the super floss through a gap in your teeth or behind the wire of your braces. Once you have threaded the floss through you can floss as normal.
Interdental brushes
Interdental brushes are good for getting rid of food and plaque from between teeth, whether or not you have braces. These small brushes have a bristled head designed to fit between the small gaps between teeth.
Flossing is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene. By taking the time to floss properly, you can remove food particles and bacteria from between your teeth and gums, prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Flossing signs you should see your dentist
While you are flossing look out for any of these symptoms.
Bleeding gums: If you haven’t flossed for a while, the pressure of the floss on your gums could make your gums bleed. If your gums look inflamed, bleed for more than a few days after you begin flossing or your gums are tender, this could be a sign of gum disease.
Shredded floss: When you are flossing, the string should glide between your teeth. If you find the floss is ripped when you floss it could be catching on something between your teeth. You could have a cracked tooth or a broken crown and not know it.
Tooth pain: If you are experiencing regular pain next to a specific tooth when you floss it could be a sign of a bigger problem. Tooth decay or loose fillings can cause pain when you floss.
A bad smell or taste: If you haven’t flossed for a while, it’s normal for the plaque or food particles to smell. If you’re flossing regularly and notice a bad smell, it could be a sign of tooth decay.
If you notice any of these problems when flossing regularly, book a dental appointment with Gentle Dental. Experience the technology, expertise and gentle approach of the best dentists in Wellington. Book an appointment today.
Clear braces v Invisalign: Which is better?
Orthodontics can help fix alignment or bite issues while giving you the gift of a more confident smile. Two of the most popular options for fixing crooked or misaligned teeth are clear braces and Invisalign. Both treatments are highly effective and more discreet than traditional wire braces. However, both treatments have their own pros and cons. Here’s how to decide what type of orthodontic treatment is right for you.
Clear Braces: The Basics
Clear braces are very similar to traditional metal braces. The main difference is that instead of attaching metal brackets and wires to your teeth, your orthodontist will use clear or white-coloured ceramic brackets. These brackets blend in with the colour of your teeth.
Clear braces are a popular option for older teenagers and adults who want a more discreet orthodontic treatment and are sometimes called invisible braces. Like wire braces, the brackets are attached to your teeth and are connected with a thin wire. Your orthodontist will monitor your tooth movements and tighten the wire periodically to move them into the correct position.
Pros of Clear Braces
If you are weighing up the advantages of clear braces v Invisalign, one of the biggest advantages is that clear braces are more effective at correcting a wider range of orthodontic issues. They can be a better choice for people who have complex dental problems, such as severe overcrowding or a misaligned bite. Clear braces are also less noticeable than traditional metal braces, making them a more appealing option for people who are self-conscious about their appearance.
Cons of Clear Braces
One of the main disadvantages of clear braces is that they aren’t as strong as metal braces. This means it can take longer to complete orthodontic treatment and the brackets are more fragile. They can break more often than wire brackets. Clear braces can also be more difficult to clean than traditional metal braces, as the ceramic braces can sometimes become discoloured over time if you consume a lot of foods and beverages that can stain.
Invisalign: The Basics
Invisalign is a system of clear plastic aligners that are custom-made to fit your teeth. The Invisalign trays are designed to gradually move your teeth into the correct position over a period of months. For best results, these treatments require you to wear your aligners at least 22 hours a day. You can remove the aligner to eat or brush your teeth.
Typically you will wear each set of aligners for two weeks before you can switch to a smaller set of aligners. Invisalign treatment is a popular choice for adults and older teenagers who want an even more discreet treatment than clear braces.
Pros of Invisalign
One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign v clear braces is that the aligners are virtually invisible. Most people won’t even notice you’re wearing aligners. The aligners are also removable, so you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss.
This makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene during your treatment. Invisalign is also a good choice for people who have mild to moderate orthodontic problems.
Cons of Invisalign
One of the main disadvantages of Invisalign is that it may not be as effective as other types of orthodontic treatments for more complex dental issues. Invisalign may not be the best option for people who have severe overcrowding or a misaligned bite. Additionally, Invisalign aligners can be more expensive than traditional metal braces or clear braces.
Clear braces v Invisalign: Which is better?
Clear braces or Invisalign are both effective options for straightening your teeth. Clear braces are a better option for people who have more complex orthodontic problems, such as severe overcrowding or a misaligned bite. Invisalign is a better option for people who have mild to moderate orthodontic problems and want a more discreet treatment option. Ultimately, the best way to determine which treatment is right for you is to consult with an experienced orthodontist who can evaluate your needs and recommend the best treatment plan.
Both orthodontic treatments are highly effective and can help you achieve a straighter, more beautiful smile. The choice between the two comes down to your needs and preferences.
At Gentle Dental, our expert orthodontal team can talk you through a range of orthodontic options including traditional braces, Invisalign, clear braces and lingual braces and find the right solution for you. Book a consultation today.
Wisdom tooth removal: What to expect
If you are experiencing pain caused by your wisdom teeth, your dentist may recommend wisdom teeth removal surgery. Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common dental procedure. However, it’s natural to have questions about what to expect before, during and after your surgery.
Why should you get your wisdom tooth removed?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars at the back of the mouth. They are the last teeth to erupt and usually come in during your late teens and early to mid-twenties. Because these teeth emerge later in life, there isn’t always room in the mouth for wisdom teeth to fit comfortably. Wisdom teeth removal is generally easier when performed on younger patients.
A dentist may recommend wisdom teeth removal surgery if your wisdom teeth are:
Impacted: A wisdom tooth that erupts partially or emerges at an angle is referred to as ‘impacted.’ Impacted teeth can cause problems for your overall oral health. They are sometimes painful, are often hard to clean behind, and can push up against other molars, causing your teeth to move slowly over time.
Sitting at an angle: If your wisdom teeth come in at an angle, they can cause damage to neighbouring teeth. Angled wisdom teeth can cause the enamel to chip away on your secondary molars. This can lead to an increase in cavities and tooth decay.
Overcrowded: There often isn’t enough room for wisdom teeth to fit comfortably next to other teeth in the mouth. As your wisdom teeth emerge, they sometimes push other teeth out of alignment. Removing your wisdom teeth can help avoid the need for braces or orthodontics later in life.
Hard to clean: Because wisdom teeth are located at the very back of the mouth, they are often difficult to brush or floss behind. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a buildup of food, plaque and bacteria behind the wisdom teeth and lead to cavities and tooth decay. Removing wisdom teeth that are hard to clean can improve your overall oral health.
What should you expect before wisdom tooth removal surgery?
If a wisdom tooth is causing problems, book a consultation appointment with the team at Gentle Dental. During your dental examination, your dentist will assess your teeth with an oral exam and a full jaw x-ray. For more complex wisdom teeth removal, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon.
For general wisdom tooth extraction, surgery takes place in one of our Wellington dental clinics. Your dentist will ask about any health problems you may have, list any drugs or medication you regularly take and discuss any initial questions you may have about the procedure. They can then book you in for wisdom teeth removal surgery at a time convenient to you.
During your initial consultation, they will also discuss options for anesthesia or sedation. Your dentist will usually use one of the following options:
Local Anesthesia: Your dentist may opt for local anesthesia via an injection near the site of each tooth that needs extraction. They may also use a numbing agent to prevent you from feeling the injection going in. Under local anesthesia, you will be awake. However, you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. You may feel some pressure and movement within your mouth during surgery.
IV or Oral Sedation: Sedation is delivered through an IV arm drip, or a liquid taken prior to the surgery. Under sedation you will feel drowsy yet responsive. Most patients have little memory of the procedure until after the sedation wears off.
General Anesthesia: General anesthesia usually involves gas inhalation or intravenous forms of sedation. Under general anesthesia, you will lose consciousness and won’t have any memory of the procedure. Your vital signs are monitored during the extraction surgery to ensure that the anesthetic has been administered safely.
What should you expect during wisdom teeth surgery?
At Gentle Dental, we can perform most wisdom teeth surgery in-house. Occasionally, for very impacted teeth, patients may be referred to a specialist dental surgeon.
Wisdom teeth surgery can take anywhere from 30-60 minutes. The complexity of the procedure depends on the position of your wisdom teeth. If the wisdom teeth have not emerged through the gum, a small incision is made, so the dentist can access the tooth. In some cases, the tooth is broken into parts to make it easier to remove. Sometimes, the dentist will have to cut the bone to remove the tooth. After the tooth is removed, the wound is stitched shut and the mouth padded with gauze to soak up the bleeding.
Wisdom tooth surgery takes around an hour. After surgery, you’ll be taken to a comfortable room until the sedation or anesthesia has worn off. Once you’re awake, we’ll call your emergency contact to pick you up and take you home. In the hours following surgery, you will be unable to drive or return to work. We recommend taking a few days off after your surgery to recover.
What should you expect after wisdom teeth surgery?
It can take two weeks to fully recover after wisdom teeth removal surgery. You’ll likely have two to three days of discomfort. During this time try to avoid working or intense exercise. During the days following surgery, you may experience:
Swelling of the mouth and cheeks
Bruising of the cheeks and extraction site
Stiffness and soreness in the jaw
Pain in the mouth
Tingling or numbness in the face, lips or tongue (although this is rare)
Most of these symptoms will wear off over time. Your dentist will provide guidance for surgery recovery. However, there are things you can do to make the recovery process more bearable.
Press a cold compress to the face to help remove swelling in the first 24 hours.
Take over-the-counter pain medications as directed
Avoid exercise or strenuous activity for the first few days
Avoid rinsing with water in the first 24 hours
Rinse with salt water every 3 hours after the first 24 hours
Eat liquids and soft foods for the first few days
Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol for the first days after surgery
If your wisdom teeth are causing you pain or discomfort or are difficult to keep clean, book a wisdom tooth consultation with the friendly team at Gentle Dental.