Your dental health is an integral part of your general well-being, and knowing when a dental emergency arises will significantly impact your oral health. Dental emergencies can vary from severe pain to tooth traumas caused by accidental collisions or falls. Being aware of what may constitute a dental emergency and when to seek immediate help can save you from needlessly suffering from dental issues and getting further complications.

What can serve as a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is defined as any situation that requires immediate intervention from a dental professional to relieve pain, stop bleeding, or prevent permanent damage to your dental or gum health. Here are some common examples of dental emergencies:

• Severe Toothache: An exposure to prolonged toothache which is highly intensive and propagates can be an indication that there is a severe infection or an abscess that needs prompt remedy.
• Trauma or Injury: Accidents like slip and fall, sports injuries, or motor vehicle collisions may damage the teeth by breaking, cracking, or knocking them out. Such teeth may need immediate attention to prevent future problems.
• Bleeding Gums: The frequent or overlapping gum bleeding, typically caused by severe gum disease or some other kind of injury, should receive urgent attention.
• Lost Dental Restorations: When the filling, the crown, or the dental implant loses its grip, the exposed sensitive tissues inside the tooth may cause pain, infection, or tooth decay.
• Swelling or Infections: Swelling of the face together with fever and difficulty in breathing and swallowing could be a warning sign for a serious infection that must be immediately taken care of.
• Objects Caught Between Teeth: Jaw movements that carry food between teeth can cause discomfort and even harm to the gums and the teeth themselves when not removed quickly.
• Severe Jaw Pain: There could be pain or problems in opening or closing the jaw which can be a sign of temporomandibular joint disorder or any serious underlying disease.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Swift action is needed in a dental emergency to prevent more damage and soothe the pain. Look for immediate oral treatment if you encounter the following situations.

• Severe Pain: When there is an intense and persistent tooth pain that is unresponsive to your regular pain drugs then it is quite urgent to understand the underlying cause of the pain and be provided with timely treatment.
• Broken or Knocked-Out Teeth: In case a tooth is fractured, broken, or pushed out, try to pick the tooth or the tooth pieces off the floor and rinse them in water. If it is possible, insert the tooth back into its socket or store it in milk or saliva and you need to seek for dentist immediately.
• Uncontrolled Bleeding: If your mouth bleeding is severe and pressing a clean cloth or gauze on it for 10-15 minutes doesn’t stop the bleeding, you must seek urgent dental care.
• Swelling or Abscess: The swelling of the face along with fever and difficulty in breathing or swallowing may indicate the existence of a serious infection that needs immediate help to avoid the occurrence of complications.
• Injuries to the Jaw: Injury to the jaw or facial area that leads to severe pain, difficulty in eating, or swelling needs to be examined promptly to determine the presence of fractures or other injuries.

What to do if a dental emergency arises?

• Stay Calm: Being calm could help you think clearly and respond properly to the emergency.
• Control Bleeding: Apply a clean cloth or gauze on the area gently to regulate bleeding. If bleeding does not stop seek emergency dental care.
• Save Lost Teeth: In case a tooth is knocked out, handle it delicately by the crown (upper part), and don’t touch the root. If the tooth is dirty, give it a rinse, but do not scrape or remove any attached tissue. Try to store it in milk or saliva and see a dental professional immediately.
• Manage Pain: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are useful as temporary relievers until you can schedule an appointment with a dentist.
• Protect Injured Teeth: In case a tooth is cracked or broken, do not chew on the affected side of the mouth, and stay away from hard and sticky foods that can worsen the damage.

Conclusion

Being aware of what a dental emergency is and when immediate attention is required is the key to preserving your dental health and preventing complications. Be sure to know how to identify dental emergencies when they happen and act quickly to prevent discomfort, and damage, and preserve your bright smile for more years to come. It is very important to call your dentist or make a dental emergency appointment for proper assessment and treatment of tooth or other mouth concerns in any dental emergency. Invest your precious time and efforts in your oral health, because it needs your care and attention.

A Chipped tooth is a common dental problem that can occur due to trauma, decay, and chewing on hard foods. An affected tooth can produce pain, sensitivity, swelling, and or problems in chewing depending on the location and severity of the fracture. In case of a broken tooth, you should quickly visit your dentist to avoid further damage or infection. Your dentist will examine your tooth and tell you the proper way to handle your case.

How can a broken tooth be treated?

If you have had a broken tooth it can be repaired by a dentist using a filling or if the breakage is large it may need something more substantial like a crown. If the damage is to a front tooth, the dentist may use a treatment called bonding, which involves using a tooth-colored composite resin.

How to know if there is a broken tooth dental emergency?

Yes, a broken tooth is considered a dental emergency and requires a visit to the dentist as soon as possible. This is because a broken tooth can lead to pain, sensitivity, difficulty in chewing, and other complications if left untreated. The dentist will evaluate the severity of the damage and provide the necessary treatment to restore the tooth’s structure and function.

What should you do when your tooth breaks?

A broken tooth may or may not be painful depending on how size and depth of the fracture. If the break is small and superficial it would not be painful as it does not involve any nerves or blood vessels. However, if the break is large and deep involving the pulp or nerve of the tooth it can cause pain. Bacteria can also infect the exposed pulp, causing an infection or discoloration of the remaining tooth over time. Additionally, pain can also result from the injury that caused the tooth to break.

What measures should be taken while your tooth is broken?

• Avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could further damage a broken tooth requiring more extensive treament.
• If you can’t bring your upper and lower teeth together while closing your mouth, see a dentist urgently as this could indicate a more severe damage.
• Gather the broken pieces and take them to the dentist.
• Rinse the remaining tooth with mouthwash to remove debris.
• Avoid applying heat as it can cause the swelling if the tooth is infected.
• Contact your dentist immediately if you notice any exposed dentin or pulp, as this could lead to future complications.

What happens after getting this treatment?

Correct treatment for a broken tooth varies based on the extent of damage. If the pulp inside the tooth is damaged or infected, it will need a root canal treatment and may require a temporary crown. In some cases, a broken tooth can be repaired with a filling or bonding if the chip is small.

Preventive measures such as wearing sports mouthguards can help avoid future accidents leading to broken teeth. Dentists can provide various treatment options to restore your smile after a tooth break.

At Guildford Dental Centre, whether you are a new patient or our regular client, you can feel at ease knowing that we try our best to offer same-day visits to attend to matters of unfortunate dental emergencies. We are also available for extended times on Mondays and Thursdays for those who cannot see us during normal work hours.

Our team is committed to the idea of pain-free dentistry and offers support for dental trauma or pain that cannot wait for treatment on another day.

We will try our best to ensure your dental emergencies are attended to at the earliest and you can leave us feeling comfortable and pain-free. Call our friendly team now on 08 6104 0370 and book an appointment.

How do Veneers work?

Do you feel insecure about the way your smile looks? Perhaps you avoid smiling for photos because of the appearance of your teeth. If this sounds like you, then dental veneers may be a suitable solution. Veneers are a well-liked choice for cosmetic dentistry that can enhance your smile and increase your self-assurance.

What Are Dental Veneers?

To improve the appearance of discolored, chipped, misaligned, or gapped teeth, dental veneers are a popular cosmetic option. These are thin shells made of porcelain or resin composite material that are custom-fitted to the front surface of a tooth. When bonded, they create a new surface that looks natural and strong, lasting for years with proper care. Not only do they enhance the look of a person’s smile, but they also boost their self-confidence and overall appearance.

How do Veneers work?

• Tooth Preparation: A small amount of enamel is removed from the front surface of the tooth to create space for the veneer and ensure a proper fit.
• Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to create a customised veneer.
• Veneer Fabrication: The veneer is fabricated in a dental laboratory to match the color, shape, and size of the adjacent teeth using either porcelain or resin composite material.
• Veneer Bonding: The veneer is placed on the prepared tooth and adjusted for proper fit before being bonded using a strong dental adhesive.
• Curing: A special light is used to cure the bonding material and secure the veneer in place.

Some additional things to keep in mind:

• Veneers are commonly made of porcelain or composite resin materials.
• They are customised to match the natural color and shape of your teeth.
• Veneers can effectively treat various cosmetic dental concerns, including tooth discoloration, chips or cracks, and gaps.
• With proper care and maintenance, veneers can last for a long time and provide significant enhancements to the appearance of your teeth.
• It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits and avoid habits like teeth grinding to ensure the longevity of your veneers.

Benefits of Dental Veneers:-
The followings are the benefits of choosing dental veneers-

1. Aesthetic enhancement: Dental veneers can significantly improve the appearance of teeth with discoloration, staining, chips, misalignment, or gaps

•  Aesthetic enhancement: Dental veneers can significantly improve the appearance of teeth with discoloration, staining, chips, misalignment, or gaps.
•  Custom-made: Veneers are tailored to fit each tooth, resulting in a natural and individualised outcome.
•  Minimal tooth preparation: Unlike crowns, veneers only require a small amount of enamel to be removed.
•  Durable: Veneers are composed of robust materials and can last for years with proper care
•  Minimal tooth sensitivity: Compared to teeth whitening treatments, veneers typically do not cause significant tooth sensitivity.
•  Quick treatment time: The veneer process can often be completed in two visits to the dentist.
•  Versatile: Veneers can address various cosmetic dental problems, making them an adaptable option for many patients.

It should be emphasised that while dental veneers offer considerable advantages, they may not be suitable for everyone. To determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs and goals, it’s crucial to have a discussion with your dentist.

Maintenance of Dental Veneers:-

To ensure that your dental veneers remain in good condition and retain their appearance, it’s crucial to practice proper oral hygiene habits and avoid activities that can harm them. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind for maintaining your veneers:
Some tips for maintaining dental veneers include:

•  Maintain good oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing twice a day are crucial for keeping your veneers healthy and looking good.
•  Schedule regular dental check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist help detect any issues with your veneers and ensure they are properly maintained.
•  Avoid teeth-staining substances: Beverages such as coffee, tea, and red wine, as well as certain foods, can stain your veneers.
• . Avoid biting hard foods: Crunchy or hard foods can cause damage to your veneers, so it’s best to cut them into smaller pieces before eating.
• Avoid using your teeth as tools: Using your teeth to open packages or bottles can cause your veneers to chip or break.
• Wear a mouthguard: Mouthguards can protect your veneers from damage caused by teeth grinding or participating in sports.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your veneers, resulting in a confident and attractive smile

If you have any questions, concerns, or are interested in getting veneers, don’t hesitate to reach out to Guildford Dental Centre. You can schedule an appointment by calling us today at 08 6104 0370

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, can occur when the hard outer layer of the teeth is damaged and forms small holes. This condition is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth and is often a result of consuming sugary drinks and sticky foods like candy. Poor dental hygiene, such as inadequate tooth cleaning, can also contribute to tooth decay.

Generally, there are 5 stages of tooth decay. The following describes the different stages of tooth decay:

• Stage 1: Demineralization

The primary stage of tooth decay can happen in the form of discoloring of the tooth where one can see spots of white or brown on the surface of the tooth.

• Stage 2: Enamel Decay

The Enamel on the tooth breaks down to form a small hole which weakens it further and makes it more vulnerable to future breakdown.

• Stage 3: Dentin Decay

Dentin is a type of tissue that lies under the enamel. It is softer than enamel and has a few nerve endings. Because of its softness and vitality, cavities in dentine tend to grow faster than enamel and can also cause pain and sensitivity.

• Stage 4: Pulp Damage

The pulp is the most inner nerve in your tooth. It helps in providing sensation to the tooth. When the bacteria reaches the tissues of this pulp the nerve gets infected  and inflamed which causes severe pain.

• Stage 5: Abscess

When tooth pulp infection starts spreading into the jaw at the bottom of your tooth it can lead to an abscess. Tooth abscesses can cause swelling in the gums, jaw or face and even lead to fever.

Prevention:

• Good oral hygiene is essential in preventing tooth decay.
• Regular dental check-ups can help detect and address any potential dental problems.
• Brushing teeth at least twice a day is crucial for good oral health.
• Flossing after meals helps remove any food stuck between teeth and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria.
• Limiting intake of sweets and sugary drinks can benefit both oral and overall health.
• Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is important for good health.
• Avoid snacking frequently as it can promote bacterial growth in the mouth, especially if not followed by flossing.

It is recommended to seek advice from a dentist promptly if you are still experiencing oral health issues despite following the aforementioned steps. Delaying treatment may result in a more intensive treatment approach, sometimes even extracting the affected tooth, if symptoms are left untreated. It is better to diagnose and treat any health issues early on rather than delaying treatment.

Contact Guildford Dental centre for early treatment of dental problems. Call our friendly team now on 08 6104 0370 and book an appointment.

Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces tooth roots with metal, screw-like posts and replaces damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function much like real ones. Dental implant surgery can offer a welcome alternative to dentures or bridgework that doesn’t fit well.

How dental implant surgery is performed depends on the type of implant and the condition of your jawbone. Dental implants will take a long way and take weeks to months to complete. Always ask questions and share your concerns with your dentist. It is therefore essential that you feel comfortable and confident in your dentist.

Like any surgery, post dental implant care is essential for a quick recovery.

Following post-operative instructions will help in a speedy recovery and ensure the success of the dental implant. 

Swelling and discomforts

For some days it is normal to experience some bleeding, swelling and discomfort that will steadily improve. There is no need to get panicked if there is red saliva. If bleeding does not stop for two days, it will be good to call the doctor for instructions.

It is highly recommended to complete the medicine course prescribed by the doctor. These medicines include antibiotics for minimizing the risk of infection, pain relievers for managing discomforts.

For the first 24 hours, regular icing helps in swelling control. A reusable ice bag or a frozen vegetable bag, wrapped in a soft towel, may be applied to the area of surgery to help minimize the swelling of your face.  Alternating 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off will usually be adequate during the first 24-48 hours after surgery.

Diet pattern

In the few days after surgery, it is better to have soft food and liquids. Avoiding hot and spicy foods is especially recommended. You can return to your routine diet after 4-5 days but it is still good to stay away from hard items until the implanted area is completely healed.

Chew on the opposite side and do NOT bite into food if the procedure was done in the front of the mouth.  

Soft food diet

• Foods such as soups, pasta,
• scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes,
• macaroni & cheese etc. are good
• Be sure to maintain adequate nutrition and drink plenty of fluids.

Food to avoid:

•  sticky, hard food (such as ice cubes, nuts, popcorn, chips),
• brittle, spicy, highly seasoned, or acidic foods in your diet.

Oral care

Post-surgery cleaning and hygiene is essential but it should not disrupt the healing process. On the day of surgery, doctors suggest brushing softly but avoid rinsing. From the next day, it is good to gently rinse with warm saltwater every time after eating.

After you have eaten or you have snacked, please use lukewarm salt water rinse 4-6 times a day; 30 seconds of swooshing with each use.

After a week it is still better to avoid toothbrushing and cleaning the implant area using a Q-tip.

Avoiding potential issues

• Any kind of excessive pressure or biting force on the implant area should be avoided.
• Avoid alcohol (even beer and wine) and smoking until after your post-operative appointment.
• Smoking is not advised during the 7-14 days following surgery.
• Please do NOT play with the surgery area with your fingers or tongue.
• Do NOT pull down the lip or cheek to look at the area and do not have someone else look at the area.
• Do NOT use a drinking straw, as the suction may dislodge the blood clot.
• Avoid extremely hot or cold foods.
• Patients with bruxism should have a bite guard or similar dental appliance for long-term protection.

Try to relax and practice the best oral hygiene possible and your healing should progress well. Make sure to visit your dentist regularly to track your healing process.

Have you been doing it wrong?

Brushing twice a day is important to remove plaque and keep your gums and teeth healthy.

It’s equally important to know how to brush your teeth, how long to brush for, how much force you use and what type of toothbrush you use not only to ensure efficient cleaning but also to avoid trauma to your teeth and gums.

Brushing twice daily spending half a minute on each quadrant is usually enough to get the best results. Two minutes out of our busy schedule every day and night is all it takes to keep the pearly whites clean and healthy. Listening to a two minutes song of your liking is a good way to monitor your brushing time.

The correct technique is equally important to utilise your two minutes efficiently. If you use an electric toothbrush its important to let the brush do the work while you try your best to reach all accessible surfaces of your teeth. Try to follow the shape of your gums and teeth by moving the brush head slowly. Try to avoid scrubbing back and forth vigorously in an effort to finish quickly or thinking you may be cleaning better.

With a manual toothbrush, you only need to express a pea-sized toothpaste with mild pressure. It’s important not to use too much force as it can cause gum trauma with recession or tooth trauma causing sensitivity. Please remember excessive forces during brushing can damage your teeth and gums causing sensitivity. Use a gentle circular motion with your toothbrush at a 45° angle directed towards the gums for cleaning the tooth along with gentle massage of gums to maintain optimal health.

Which Toothbrush is best and when to change it?

It’s important to use a toothbrush that cleans effectively without traumatizing your teeth and gums. A soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head and a flexible neck is all you need. If you see that the bristles of your toothbrush are starting to fray or showing signs of wear it’s a good indication that it is time for a change. Either that or changing your toothbrush every three months is a good guideline as well. It is important to know that it is ill advisable to share your toothbrush with others as your toothbrush can sometimes harbour germs of previous illnesses and communicable diseases.

If you have braces

It’s recommended that you brush after every meal, preferably using a toothbrush with a soft head to regularly clean away the food debris and plaque that can accumulate in the brackets.