Many people avoid the dentist because of anxiety or fear of discomfort, even when they know gum health is important. At our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic, we provide safe and effective sedation options to make teeth cleaning, deep cleaning, and other treatments comfortable for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the types of dental sedation, who they’re for, and how they can help you maintain healthy gums and teeth.

Why Sedation Can Help

Dental anxiety can prevent patients from booking regular teeth cleaning in Brisbane, which increases the risk of gum disease, cavities, and oral health complications. Sedation allows patients to:

• Relax during routine preventive cleanings.

• Receive deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) for gum disease without stress.

• Feel comfortable having work done around veneers, bridges, implants, or crowns.

Using sedation means patients can maintain their oral health without fear, keeping gums healthy and smiles confident.

Types of Sedation Available

1. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

• Mild sedation that helps patients feel calm.

• Quick-acting and wears off shortly after the appointment.

• Ideal for mild to moderate anxiety during routine cleaning or minor treatments.

2. IV Sedation (Intravenous Sedation)

• Provides deeper relaxation for patients with higher anxiety levels or for more extensive treatments.

• Fully monitored by our trained dental sedationist.

• Allows multiple treatments, like deep cleaning or cosmetic dental work, to be done comfortably in fewer visits.

Who Can Benefit from Dental Sedation?

Sedation is suitable for:

• Patients who experience dental anxiety or phobia.

• Those with a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth/gums.

• Patients needing extensive care, such as deep cleaning for gum disease, maintenance of implants, or cosmetic dentistry procedures.

At our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic, we assess each patient individually to determine the safest and most effective sedation option.

Maintaining Gum and Dental Health with Sedation

With sedation, anxious patients no longer need to skip preventive or deep cleaning. This ensures:

• Regular gum checks to prevent disease progression.

• Proper cleaning around veneers, implants, and bridges.

• A positive experience that encourages consistent dental visits.

Maintaining gum health is critical for long-term oral health, and sedation helps make it achievable for everyone.

Next Steps

If fear or anxiety has prevented you from visiting your Brisbane CBD dentist, now is the perfect time to take control of your oral health.

📞 Call us on (07) 3211 1155 or
💻 Book your appointment online

Let our gentle, experienced team help you keep your gums and teeth healthy—comfortably and stress-free.

The post Stress-Free Gum Treatment: How Dental Sedation Can Help first appeared on Dentistry on George.

In Parts One and Two of our series, we explored why healthy gums matter and the difference between preventive and deep cleaning. Many patients wonder how to care for dental implants, bridges, veneers, or other cosmetic work during professional cleanings. At our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic, we take special care to maintain these areas while protecting your investment and supporting long-term gum health.

Why Special Care Is Needed

Dental implants, bridges, and veneers require extra attention because:

• Plaque and tartar can accumulate around them if not cleaned properly.

• Gum disease can affect both natural teeth and surrounding dental work.

• Improper cleaning can damage cosmetic surfaces or compromise implants.

Regular teeth cleaning in Brisbane ensures these areas are healthy and that your smile remains functional and attractive. Our dental professionals also ensure that they equip you with the knowledge and tools required to maintain your gum health and protect and advanced dentistry that you have.

Cleaning Around Implants

Dental implants are titanium posts that replace missing teeth, supporting crowns. While they don’t get cavities, the gums and bone around them still need protection:

• Professional cleaning removes plaque and bacteria around the implant.

• Special tools are used to avoid scratching the implant surface.

• Gum health is monitored to prevent peri-implantitis (inflammation around implants).

• Tailored advice is given to you to ensure you are cleaning around your implant correctly

Maintaining Bridges and Crowns

Bridges and crowns are excellent restorative options but can trap food and plaque underneath:

• Dentists carefully clean under bridges and around crowns.

• Polishing helps maintain a smooth surface, reducing bacterial buildup.

• Regular checkups ensure that the underlying teeth and gums stay healthy.

• Certain types of bridges may require the use of Superfloss and/or interdental brushes to clean all surfaces

Polishing Veneers and Cosmetic Work

Veneers, cosmetic fillings, and other aesthetic work require gentle cleaning:

• Only non-abrasive polishing is used to avoid scratching surfaces.

• Cosmetic dental work is checked for chips, discoloration, or gum recession.

• Regular cleaning preserves both your smile and the health of surrounding gums.

• Your dentist will recommend specific products for you to use (and avoid) to maintain your cosmetic dentistry.

Special Areas and Techniques

Certain areas need extra attention during professional cleanings:

• Hard-to-reach back teeth.

• Along the gumline.

• Around dental restorations.

At our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic, we tailor every cleaning to your individual needs, ensuring healthy gums and well-maintained dental work. We are also a big believer in educating you to care for your oral health at home, with tailored plans and recommendations of dental products as unique as you are.

Next Steps

If you have implants, bridges, veneers, or other cosmetic work, regular checkups and professional cleaning are essential. Book a consultation with your Brisbane CBD dentist to protect your investment and maintain healthy gums.

📞 Call us on (07) 3211 1155 or
💻 Book online

In Part Four of our series, we’ll discuss sedation options for anxious patients, making it easier to maintain gum and dental health comfortably.

The post Protecting Your Smile: Essential Tips for Maintaining Dental Implants, Veneers, and Crowns first appeared on Dentistry on George.

After learning in Part One why healthy gums are so important, the next step is understanding how to keep them healthy. At our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic, we see the difference regular care makes. In this article, we’ll explain the difference between preventive teeth cleaning and deep cleaning for gum disease, and when each is needed.

Preventive Cleaning – The Basics of Routine Care

Preventive cleaning, sometimes called a regular dental cleaning, is designed for patients with healthy gums. During a routine cleaning at your Brisbane CBD dentist, our dental team:

• Removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and along the gumline.

• Polishes teeth for a smooth, clean surface.

• Checks for early signs of gum disease, decay, or oral health issues.

• Offers personalised advice for home care, including brushing and flossing techniques.

For most patients, preventive cleaning is recommended every six months, but your dentist may suggest a different schedule depending on your oral health.

Deep Cleaning – Treating Gum Disease

If gum disease has developed, a deeper cleaning is required to stop the problem from progressing. Deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, involves:

• Removing plaque and tartar below the gumline.

• Smoothing the roots of teeth so gums can reattach.

• Treating infected gum pockets to reduce inflammation.

• Providing ongoing periodontal maintenance to keep gums healthy.

Deep cleaning is usually done over multiple visits and may be recommended for patients showing signs of periodontitis, such as bleeding, gum recession, or deep pockets.

Which Cleaning Do You Need?

At our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic, we assess each patient individually. Your dentist will:

• Measure gum pocket depth and check for bleeding or inflammation.

• Consider your oral hygiene routine, medical history, and risk factors.

• Recommend either preventive cleaning or deep cleaning, tailored to your needs.

Even patients who have had deep cleaning will continue to benefit from regular preventive cleanings to maintain gum health.

Special Areas That Need Extra Care

Certain areas are harder to clean and require professional attention:

• Around dental implants, bridges, or crowns.

• Near veneers or cosmetic dental work.

• Back molars and tight spaces that are easy to miss at home.

By addressing these areas, your dentist ensures healthy gums and a strong foundation for your teeth, while protecting cosmetic or restorative work.

Sedation Options for Anxious Patients

For patients who feel nervous about deep cleaning, sedation can make the experience more comfortable:

• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for mild anxiety.

• IV sedation for more extensive treatments or higher anxiety levels.

Our team at our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic ensures all sedation options are safe and monitored by trained professionals.

Next Steps

Maintaining healthy gums is about more than just brushing at home. If you haven’t had a teeth cleaning in Brisbane CBD recently—or if you’re experiencing bleeding gums—it’s time to book a consultation with your Brisbane CBD dentist.

📞 Call us on (07) 32111155 or
💻 Book online here

In Part Three of our series, we’ll focus on maintaining implants, bridges, veneers, and cosmetic dental work during professional cleanings.

The post Maintaining Healthy Gums in Brisbane: Essential Tips for Preventive and Deep Cleaning first appeared on Dentistry on George.

Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong, lasting smile. While most people focus on brushing and flossing their teeth, gums often get overlooked. Neglecting gum health can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and even impact overall health. In this article, we’ll explore why gums are so important, what gum disease is, and why regular professional teeth cleaning is essential. We have a big focus on prevention and general health at our Brisbane CBD dental clinic.

What Are Gums and Why Are They Important?

Gums (gingiva) are the soft tissue that surrounds and supports your teeth. Healthy gums:

• Protect the roots of your teeth and underlying bone.

• Act as a barrier against bacteria.

• Keep teeth stable and prevent them from shifting or loosening.

When gums are unhealthy, they can recede, bleed, and develop pockets where bacteria thrive. This can eventually lead to gum disease (periodontal disease) and, in severe cases, tooth loss.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding your teeth caused by plaque and tartar buildup. There are two main stages:

1. Gingivitis (early stage)

   • Symptoms: Red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing.

   • Often painless, which is why many people don’t notice it.

   • Reversible with professional cleaning and good oral hygiene.

2. Periodontitis (advanced stage)

   • Symptoms: Gum recession, deep pockets between teeth and gums, bad breath, loose teeth.

   • Can lead to tooth loss and affect overall health (linked to heart disease, diabetes, and more).

   • Requires deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing periodontal care. This may be done by our Brisbane CBD Dentist or we may need to refer you to a specialist (a periodontist).

Why Regular Teeth Cleaning Helps Prevent Gum Disease

Professional teeth cleaning is more than just polishing your teeth—it’s a critical preventive step for gum health. At our Brisbane CBD dental practice, your dentist or hygienist will:

• Remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing miss.

• Check for early signs of gum disease and other oral health issues.

• Offer tailored advice for your smile.

Regular cleaning reduces the risk of gum inflammation, infection, and the need for more extensive treatments later.

Special Considerations for Gum Health

Certain areas are particularly important to keep clean to prevent gum disease:

• Along the gumline where plaque tends to accumulate.

• Around dental work, including crowns, bridges, implants, and veneers.

• Hard-to-reach back teeth.

Maintaining these areas with professional care ensures gums stay strong and healthy, even if you have cosmetic or restorative dental work. At our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic, we take extra care when cleaning around veneers or dental implants to protect your investment and keep your smile looking its best.

Next Steps

If you haven’t had a dental checkup recently, or if your gums bleed or feel tender, it’s time to book a consultation. In our next blog, we’ll explore preventive versus deep cleaning, explaining the treatments available for maintaining healthy gums and managing gum disease.

📞 Call us on (07) 3211 1155  or
💻 Book your appointment online here

Your smile deserves the care of a gentle Brisbane CBD dentist—we look forward to seeing you soon.

The post Why Healthy Gums Matter first appeared on Dentistry on George.

Chronic inflammation in our mouths is associated with other inflammatory processes in our body, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, dementia, pregnancy complications and respiratory problems.

Therefore, keeping our mouths healthy is about far more than a winning smile – it can help us live long and healthy lives. Read on to find out more.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is the overall term used to describe both gingivitis and periodontitis. The suffix ‘itis’ means inflammation. Think of arthritis (inflammation of the joints), dermatitis (inflammation in the skin) or bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchi of the lungs). Therefore gingivitis is inflammation of the gingivae, which is the medical term for gums. The periodontium are the supporting structures of the teeth – namely the bone, and the fibres that attach the teeth to the bone. It is these structures that essentially hold the teeth in place. Periodontitis is inflammation of these structures.

Gingivitis is early gum disease, when the inflammation is contained with the gums. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which is where this inflammation spreads to the underlying structures and affects the attachment of the teeth.

So, what causes all this inflammation? Plaque. Plaque is the build up of bacteria which form a sticky layer on the teeth and gums, especially the join where the teeth and the gums meet. Some of this bacteria causes inflammation in the gums.

Inflamed gums

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease

Common symptoms of gingivitis include:

– gums that are tender

– gums that bleed when you brush or floss

– gums that look red

– gums that look puffy or swollen

– bad breath

Gum disease can cause bad breath

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to affect the underlying supporting structures of the tooth (the periodontium). We call this stage of gum disease periodontitis. The periodontium includes the bone and the structures that attach the tooth to the bone. As this attachment is lost you can have:

– teeth that start to drift/move position

– recession of the gums

– teeth that become sensitive to hot/cold/sweet as the root surface of the tooth is exposed

– teeth that start to become mobile and may feel loose

– swellings/abscesses in the gums

– pus coming from the gums

– bad breath

The  problem with gum disease is that it can progress without you being aware of it. The underlying attachment of the teeth is below the levels of the gums. Attachment loss cannot be assessed without measurement from the dentist and/or x-rays. Therefore, regular dental examinations and screening for gum disease are key.

Calculus build-up between the teeth and under the gum-line

However, if you have not been to the dentist for a while and are worried about any of the above symptoms, don’t delay and book a dental examination. Gingivitis is easy to treat; periodontitis is harder. The earlier we can catch the signs of gum disease and start treatment, the better the outcomes.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase the risk of gum disease:

• Poor oral hygiene, meaning the plaque on the teeth is not thoroughly removed daily
• Poor diet – one high in sugars, which increase the rate at which plaque accumulates and/or low in nutritional foods
• Dry mouth –which means less saliva to wash away plaque
• Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco and/or users of other nicotine products
• Diabetes
• Other immunological issues
• Hormonal changes, such as in pregnancy and menopause
• Genetics
• Stress levels

How gum disease is diagnosed

Screening for gum disease

At your dental examination the dentist will always carry out a screening for gum disease. We do this by walking a special probe with measurement markers around each tooth, measuring the depth of the ‘pocket’ between the tooth and the gum, while looking for bleeding, pus and noting any calculus (hardened plaque). We give each section of the mouth a score of between 0 and 4.

Where there is no bleeding, no calculus and a pocket between the tooth and gum of less than 3.5mm – this is score 0. If we get scores of 3 or 4 (pockets over 3.5mm and over 5.5mm respectively) we need to do a more thorough assessment.

As this screening is done at each examination, we can pick things up early. A small pocket of 4mm will be easier to treat than a deep pocket of 7mm for example.

Treatment Options

Scale and clean

The most effective means of treatment is in educating you to care for your teeth and gums at home. We can do scaling and cleaning here at the practice, but if this is not maintained at home, any treatment will not work. It’s what you do every day, day in day out, that makes the biggest different.

Other options for gum disease include non-surgical treatments such as professional tooth scaling and cleaning, and deep scaling to get down into those deeper pockets. Deep scaling will usually be carried out under local anaesthetic and is more involved than a straightforward scale and clean.

Scaling is when we remove the hardened build-up of plaque that forms on the teeth and root surfaces – known as calculus. This can form around the necks of the teeth, and also down under the gum on the root surfaces of the teeth. This needs to be removed and the tooth/root surface left smooth, to limit the accumulation of further plaque. When plaque is left in place and not removed by home care (brushing, flossing, interdental brushes), it calcifies on to the teeth and must be removed by a dental professional. This is why your home care is so important.

Interdental brushes

For more advanced periodontal disease, referral to a specialist – a periodontist – may be required for more in-depth treatment, which may also include surgical options.

Prevention

As always, prevention is better than cure! Prevention includes your home care. Thorough daily plaque removal is essential. This is done by brushing not just the teeth, but the gums as well. In addition, we must remove plaque from between the teeth with floss and interdental brushes. Your dentist can help ensure that you have the correct technique, as it can be tricky!

This is also why regular dental visits are important. Not only do we screen for gum disease, but we can also give you tailored oral hygiene advice. Advising the products and techniques that are good for you. In addition, regular professional teeth cleanings will remove calculus, making it easier for you to maintain at home.

Flossing demonstration

Connection Between Gum Disease and Overall Health

As mentioned, there are links between gum disease and systemic conditions.

Diabetes

This link can go both ways. Those with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease. But interestingly, those with gum disease have actually improved their diabetic control by having their gum disease treated

Heart disease

Those with gum disease are twice as likely to have heart disease.

Lung diseases

Untreated periodontal disease can result in bacteria from the mouth entering the lungs and causing respiratory disease such as pneumonia. The chronic inflammation from gum disease can also worsen lung diseases that also have chronic inflammation such as COPD and asthma.

Oral hygiene products

Alzheimer’s Disease

Again, studies have shown the link between bacteria in the mouth and these bacteria in the brain. You can read more here

Cancer

Research has found an increase risk in men with gum disease and kidney, pancreatic and blood cancers. In addition, other research found that in women, those with a history of periodontal disease were at 14% greater risk of developing any cancer.

Our overall sense of health and wellbeing can also be compromised if we have inflamed and bleeding gums and are worried about bad breath and loose teeth.

In Summary…

In summary, a healthy mouth is not just isolated to your mouth. The health of your mouth can affect the health of your whole body. It’s therefore important to ensure daily effective and thorough removal of plaque and regular dental visits to maintaining good oral hygiene and hence good health!

If you are overdue your dental examination, it’s not too late to book in! At your exam, we not only check your teeth, but will assess your gums. We have a strong focus on prevention and educating you to take care of your teeth and gums at home. If you are new to our practice, you can schedule a new patient comprehensive examination.

If you do have more advanced gum disease and need further assessment and treatment, we will get this organised for you. Treating gum disease early is the key to prevent tooth loss, and other health complications.

The post Understanding Gum Disease and Periodontitis: A Complete Guide first appeared on Dentistry on George.

What’s in Toothpaste?

The basic ingredients of toothpaste typically include abrasives, detergents, fluoride, flavors, and humectants. Abrasives like calcium carbonate or silica scrub away plaque and stains, detergents (such as sodium lauryl sulfate) create foam to help dislodge debris, fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, and humectants like glycerol keep the paste from drying out. Together, these ingredients ensure that brushing your teeth isn’t just a ritual but an effective way to maintain oral hygiene.

Beyond its cleaning powers, toothpaste plays a crucial role in preventing dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. The fluoride in toothpaste strengthens enamel and helps repair early signs of tooth decay, while antibacterial agents help fight gum disease-causing bacteria. Some specialized toothpastes even cater to sensitive teeth, whitening, or specific dental conditions.

How Does Toothpaste Prevent Cavities?

Toothpaste prevents cavities primarily through its active ingredient, fluoride. Here’s how fluoride in toothpaste works to protect your teeth:

1. Strengthening Tooth Enamel: Fluoride helps to remineralise and strengthen tooth enamel, which is the outer layer of the tooth. Enamel is susceptible to demineralisation due to acids produced by bacteria in plaque and acids from sugary and starchy foods. Fluoride aids in reversing early stages of enamel damage caused by these acids, making the enamel more resistant to decay.

2. Inhibiting Acid Production: Fluoride inhibits the ability of bacteria in plaque to produce acids that attack tooth enamel. By reducing acid production, fluoride helps to prevent the demineralisation of enamel, which is the first step towards cavity formation.

3. Enhancing Remineralization: Fluoride promotes remineralisation, which is the process of minerals like calcium and phosphate being deposited back into weakened areas of enamel. This remineralisation process helps to repair early, microscopic stages of tooth decay before they progress into cavities.

4. Protecting Against Bacteria: Some toothpastes also contain antibacterial agents which help to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth, which can further prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.

In addition to fluoride, toothpaste often contains abrasives that help mechanically remove plaque and food particles from teeth when brushing. The combination of fluoride and mechanical cleaning significantly reduces the likelihood of developing cavities when used as part of a regular oral hygiene routine that includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing.

How can toothpaste help with sensitive teeth?

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the underlying dentine of a tooth becomes exposed. Dentine is made up of tiny tubules that lead to nerve endings within the tooth. When these tubules are exposed—whether due to receding gums, enamel erosion, or dental procedures—stimuli such as hot, cold, acidic foods, or even brushing can trigger sharp, temporary pain.

Sensitive toothpaste is formulated to address tooth sensitivity by targeting the root cause of sensitivity. Unlike regular toothpaste, which focuses primarily on cleaning and preventing cavities, sensitive toothpaste contains active ingredients that help alleviate discomfort and protect exposed dentin.

How Sensitive Toothpastes Work

Desensitising Agents: Sensitive toothpastes can contain a range of ingredients such as potassium, calcium sodium phosphosilicate (CSP), strontium, arginine, and stannous fluoride (SnF₂). These compounds work by blocking the pathways to the nerves, thereby reducing sensitivity over time.

Milder Abrasives: To maintain cleanliness without exacerbating sensitivity, these toothpastes use gentler abrasives compared to standard varieties.

Fluoride: Essential for preventing cavities, fluoride is also present in sensitive toothpaste formulations. It helps strengthen enamel and protects against decay, which can contribute to sensitivity.

Specialized Formulas: Some sensitive toothpastes are tailored to specific needs, such as those for whitening or gum health, ensuring you can find one that meets your oral care requirements.

Choosing a fluoride-containing toothpaste that meets your specific dental needs, such as sensitivity or whitening, and brushing correctly for at least two minutes each time, ensures that you’re maximizing the cavity-fighting benefits of toothpaste. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings also play a crucial role in maintaining optimal oral health.

Using Sensitive Toothpaste Effectively

For optimal results, follow these tips:

Consistency:

Use sensitive toothpaste consistently as your regular toothpaste to experience ongoing relief. It takes time for the active ingredients to build up and work. Give yourself at least a week before you expect results. Switching and changing to other toothpastes (even another sensitive toothpaste, but with a different active ingredient) can stop the compounds from working effectively.

Technique

• Brush gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further gum recession and enamel wear
• We recommended getting an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor – this will let you know if you are brushing too hard
• Think about massaging the gums, rather than scrubbing them
• Angle the bristles of the toothbrush down towards the gum-line

Consultation

If sensitivity persists or worsens, consult your dentist. It could indicate an underlying dental issue that needs addressing. Tooth sensitivity can mimic other dental issues, such as tooth decay.

How can toothpaste help with specific concerns

Your dentist can also recommend (and provide) toothpastes for specific concerns.

There are pharmacist only high strength fluoride toothpastes, which are recommended for those at higher risk of tooth decay. We also have some dental mousses with calcium and phosphate, which are other elements that make up tooth enamel. Those who are at high risk of decay due to for example, high sugar consumption, dry mouth, reduction in quality of saliva, or specific medical treatment which puts them at higher risk from decay will be recommended these specific products.

There are also specific toothpastes recommended for those with specific gum issues and/or sores in their mouths. These can contain ingredients such as chlorhexidine. In addition, if a reaction or allergy to SLS is suspected, SLS free toothpastes will be recommended.

What about whitening toothpastes

There are few toothpastes out there that actually whiten the teeth. The majority of ‘whitening’ toothpastes contain stronger abrasives that are designed to essentially scratch stains off the teeth. This may help with superficial staining, but may also be too harsh on the tooth enamel and dentine, especially if you suffer from tooth wear and/or gum recession.

There are some toothpastes that contain some whitening products in them, namely hydrogen peroxide. Again, this will lift stains and may maintain whiteness for those who have whitened their teeth before, and even very slightly whiten the teeth However, please bear in mind that when professionally whitening your teeth, we used custom-fitted mouthguards which hold the tooth whitening products as close to the teeth as possible for a minimum of around 30 minutes. A two minute brush with some toothpaste won’t work to the same degree.

Choosing the Right Toothpaste for You

When selecting a toothpaste, consider the following factors:

Specific Ingredients

• If you have sensitivity and worn down teeth (from grinding or over-brushing), look for toothpastes containing calcium sodium phosphosilicate (CSP), strontium, arginine.
• If you have tooth sensivitiy, a dry mouth and have erosion (from dietary acids or reflux), look for toothpastes containing stannous fluoride or phosphate.
• If you have inflamed gums or are at risk of gum disease, look out for antibacterial agents like triclosan or zinc compounds

Try to avoid whitening toothpastes – as the majority of these have abrasives, which can wear the teeth further and cause more sensitivity and yellowing.

Please speak to us for alternative whitening toothpaste recommendations.

Fluoride

Most popular brands will contain either Sodium Fluoride and / or Stannous fluoride. For adult toothpastes this is around 1,450ppm (parts per million).

If you don’t want to use a fluoride toothpaste, look out for xylitol instead.

Other types of toothpastes and mousses.

We can sometimes recommend higher strength fluoride toothpastes. These are good if you have extreme sensitivity, have had dry mouth from medical conditions/treatment (e.g. chemo- and radiotherapy) or have had a lot of decay experience.

Mousses e.g. Tooth Mousse, can also be recommended for people who have low saliva, erosion and sensitivity. When combined with stannous fluoride, studies have shown this combination to provide superior protection against acids from your diet or gastrointestinal system.

Personal Preference

The rest is really personal preference: Such as textures and flavours.

In Summary

Next time you reach for your toothpaste, consider the specific needs of your teeth. Here at Dentistry on George we like to give you individualised and tailored advice specific to your needs. We can certainly recommend the best toothpaste for you. Mishari’s favourites are the Sensodyne range, especially Repair and Protect and the Rapid Relief Extra Fresh.

The post Which toothpaste should I use? first appeared on Dentistry on George.

We take our health for granted and it’s not until something goes wrong that we realise it’s importance. How many times per day do we chew? Talk? Smile? If you have a sore mouth or a wobbly tooth, you’ll sure be aware of every movement. So why do we not heed the advice, and continue to neglect our health until it’s too late and the damage is done? Is it a case of ‘she’ll be right’ or ‘that won’t happen to me’? Some people just give up, saying ‘it’s in the family – there’s nothing I can do’.

Most dental diseases are completely preventable (with the exception of some genetic conditions and those wisdom teeth that decided to come in lying down) and caused by one thing.

Did you know you are more bacteria than human? They estimate we are made up of 30 trillion human cells, and 39 trillion bacteria cells. Your mouth is no different, it is estimated you have 6 billion bacterial cells and these can be from up to 200 different species.

Some of these species are ‘good bacteria’ and we need them but as we know, some of them are ‘bad bacteria’ and cause tooth decay and gum disease. There are some of these species that can even be linked to certain cancers. There are environments that make different types of bacteria more likely to thrive. For example, bacteria love sugar and those tooth-decay causing bacteria are no different. The more sugar you consume, the more the bacteria consume and multiplies. That ‘furry feeling’ you get on your teeth? That’s a nice slimy layer of bacteria. The bacteria devour your sugar and produce acid as a waste product. This acid destroys your tooth.

Gum disease is also caused by bacteria. Those bacterial cells irritate our gums – our body recognises them as a foreign object and starts trying to defend itself. Loads of cells rush to the area, and this is what causes inflammation – your gums may swell and bleed when touched. However, some people’s immune systems take it too far, and the body basically starts the process of trying to get rid of this foreign object and anything else in the way.

When gum disease progresses to what we call periodontal disease – the connections between the tooth and the gum start to get destroyed, including the bone around the tooth. The tooth will start to get loose, and over time, when treatment is not sought, the tooth will become so loose it can fall out. Most people have usually found a dentist before this, however often it is too late and nothing can be done, but remove the tooth.

To recap: we have trillions of bacteria cells. Some good, some bad. Some cause disease and love to eat sugar. Their by-products dissolve our teeth, and they cause inflammation in our gums. What can we do about it?

1. Consume less sugar (Diet)
2. Try and remove these bacteria (Brushing and Flossing)
3. Make the tooth more resistant to the acid (Fluoride)
4. Get our gums checked (see the Dentist regularly)

But why does all this matter? Obviously, we need our teeth for chewing. A beautiful smile makes us feel more confident. Our teeth help us speak. If still the thought of losing your teeth and having false ones doesn’t bother you, what about the health of the rest of your body? All that ‘bad’ bacteria and inflammation in your mouth can’t be good for you.

First of all, having all that infection and inflammation in your head, means it’s close to two pretty important structures – your airway and your brain. You don’t want either of those being compromised.

Secondly, through inhaling, swallowing and the blood-stream, those bacteria can travel.

Some diseases linked to poor oral health include:

• Disease of the heart and blood vessels
• Diabetes
• Lung disease
• Kidney disease
• Stroke
• Dementia
• Adverse pregnancy outcomes
• Stomach ulcers
• Oral cancers
• Aspiration pneumonia in the elderly

The post A bit about Bacteria first appeared on Dentistry on George.

What is the harm in Vaping?

Is vaping the new smoking? Or is it safer? This has been an area of increasing research, as the use of e-cigarettes is reasonably new, the effect of their use is still being discovered. Join us in this blog to find out what effects smoking and vaping have on your mouth (and general health), if you should be worried about your vaping habit or the effects of passive vaping, and what you can do to quit.  

Smoking

We’ve been told for years about the dangers of smoking. Many people know about the links with lung and heart disease, but what about your mouth? 

Oral Effects of Tobacco Smoking: 

• Increased risk of severe gum disease which can lead to tooth loss  
• Those who smoke are more likely to lose their teeth than non-smokers.
• There is a greater risk of mouth cancer  
• Dental implants are more likely to fail in smokers 
• Dry mouth (which in turn can lead to an increase in tooth decay and gum disease) 
• Bad breath 
• Bad taste 

Vaping

Around 2006, e-cigarettes became commercially available and their use has been increasing ever since. According to the National Drug Strategy Household Survey in 2019, 11% of the population aged over 14 years have used e-cigarettes. The primary motivation for use of e-cigarettes is to quit smoking traditional cigarettes, but there is an increasing group that have never smoked before that are vaping. In fact, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has expressed concerns that starting with vaping can be the gateway into smoking traditional cigarettes. This is because vaping can lead to a dependence on nicotine. This is why there is such a concern around vaping in young people.  

Passive Vaping

Although vaping does not produce smoke like conventional cigarettes, it does produce an aerosol. This aerosol can be inhaled by bystanders, and it can contain potentially carcinogenic chemicals such as metals, propylene glycol, and formaldehyde. Although there is limited evidence on the effects of passive vaping, the WHO has advised that it can be harmful. 

Oral Effects

Oral effects of e-cigarette use: 

• Dry mouth (which in turn can lead to an increase in decay and gum disease) 
• Burning sensations 
• Irritation of the lining of the mouth 
• Bad taste 
• Bad breath 
• Pain 
• Oral mucosal lesions (changes in the lining of the mouth) 
• Black tongue 
• Burns 

Cancer Risk

The WHO has listed propylene glycol as a carcinogen. There is also concern that the heat from e-cigarettes can increase the risk from this chemical. In addition, e-cigarettes can interact with the tobacco carcinogens of regular smoking and cause a greater risk of cancer in people who use both traditional and e-cigarettes. However, one study found that the oral mucosa (lining of the mouth) in e-cigarette users was more like non-smokers than smokers. They concluded that oral cancer risk was higher in the traditional tobacco smokers than for those smoking e-cigarettes, but that those who didn’t smoke at all had the lowest risk.  

Gum Disease and Decay

One study found that e-cigarette users were twice as likely than non-smokers to have deteriorating gum health. This includes an increase in plaque, bone loss (of the bony support for the teeth) and inflammatory markers. There is also a risk of implant complications in those who use e-cigarettes. 

E-cigarette users were found to have an increased decay rate than non-users. 

Other Health Risks

The presence of nicotine in e-cigarettes increases the risk of heart disease, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. It is also associated with lung injuries, and even death.  

There have also been incidences of e-cigarettes causing burns and even exploding in people’s mouths. 

Is it safe to use e-cigarettes than normal cigarettes?

No. There is no evidence to say that they are safe.

What the evidence does point to is that they are either the same, or slightly less damaging than conventional cigarettes, but they have much more adverse outcomes than not smoking. 

Quitting

There are benefits to giving up smoking at any age. The below table is from www.icanquit.com.au which is a fabulous resource to help you get started. 

Top tips if you want to quit:

1. Get help from your GP 

2. Check out www.icanquit.com.au 

3. Check out QuitHQ 

The post Oral Effects of Smoking and Vaping first appeared on Dentistry on George.

There was a frenzy of articles from the Associated Press that came out a few years ago, saying that there “was weak evidence to support tooth flossing”. Many patients then asked us, should we be flossing now?

The answer is, YES, you most definitely should, and here is why:

• Many of those studies used to come up with the assessment by the Associated Pressed, were short term, flawed and not deemed credible pieces of evidence.
• When we examine evidence, there is typical a hierarchy of how studies rank in terms of credibility.
• Those with the highest credibility are randomised control trials and systematic reviews, and those with the lower credibility are expert opinions.

Myths

1. “You only need to floss when food is stuck between the teeth”

Flossing not only removes food particles, but it removes plaque and bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay. So, whilst these little pests can be invisible, they can lead to visible problems if you don’t floss regularly!

2. “You don’t need to floss if you brush regularly”

Your toothbrush bristles simply cannot get in between the tight spaces between your teeth. So whilst toothbrushing is very important, flossing is a close second! If you don’t floss, food particles can stick in between the teeth leading to decay, and the plaque from bacteria and food, can then cause gum disease. This can lead to painful and bleeding gums, and eventually wobbly teeth leading to tooth loss.

3. “You shouldn’t floss if it makes your gums bleed”

This statement comes past our ears a lot. The reason the gums are bleeding, is because, ironically, of the lack of flossing! It’s because they are inflamed with plaque and bacteria. This inflammation can be harmful to the supporting structures of the teeth, and lead to gum disease and eventual loss of teeth.

4. “Dentists can’t tell when you’ve skipped flossing”

We can! When you have not been flossing, sticky white plaque adheres to the teeth, eventually turning into the yellowy – brown hard limescale like tartar. Once it gets to this stage it cannot be removed by home tools, you need to see the dentist to do this safely and effectively.

The post The Truth About Flossing first appeared on Dentistry on George.

Bad breath is a common problem to struggle with. In the mornings, it’s normal to experience bad breath, and it will usually go away with a drink of water and brushing your teeth. If the bad breath lasts throughout the day, or several days, there may be an underlying condition. In this article, we’ll go over what causes bad breath, medically called Halitosis, and what treatment is available.

What Causes Bad Breath? The Most Common Culprits

Bad breath is an issue that nobody likes having to deal with. Not only can it feel awkward not knowing if others can smell it, it may also be a source of discomfort to the person suffering from it. You may have a sour taste or dryness in your mouth or feel a constant need to clear your throat. In most cases, there’s a straightforward fix, but sometimes the root cause of the problem lies deeper.

If your bad breath is persistent and doesn’t go away, there may be an underlying medical condition. Many potential issues could be causing it, so if the condition persists, the best course of action is to book a check-up with a qualified dentist. This is especially the case if your teeth are also discoloured and sensitive, or other issues are present. However, here are some of the medical causes that may cause bad breath.

Gum disease

The number one cause of bad breath is gum disease. Without adequate dental hygiene, food particles remain in the mouth, allowing for the build-up of bacteria (plaque). Without regular brushing and oral hygiene, the plaque will begin to build up in pockets within the mouth, forming toxins and irritating the gums.

One of the main symptoms of periodontitis, the severe form of gum disease, is bad breath. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to much more severe symptoms than bad breath. This includes damage to the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth, and eventually tooth loss.

Plaque build-up

Often bad breath is simply due to a build-up of plaque in the mouth, tongue and gums. Plaque is a see-through, sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. It should be removed daily with brushing and flossing, so it doesn’t build up and harden into tartar.

Tooth decay and Infection

Other medical causes for bad breath include tooth decay and infection. A common chain of events is food getting trapped around wisdom teeth, which then become infected due to bacteria. If left unattended for a long time, the infection can then lead to cavities or tooth decay. If you’re experiencing bad breath as well as toothache and mouth sores, it’s time to get a dental check-up.

Dry mouth

Chronic dry mouth may be a symptom of problems with your salivary glands. It can also be a side effect of certain medications and diseases. In addition to bad breath, those suffering from a chronic dry mouth are at a higher risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Saliva protects the teeth, so when it’s lacking, tooth decay and gum disease can advance more rapidly. That’s why it’s crucial to see your dentist regularly if you suffer from a dry mouth.

Other medical causes

• Gut problems – gases in your gut may cause bad breath
• Conditions affecting the mouth, nose and throat
• Extreme diets and anorexia nervosa
• Diabetes

How to Get Rid of Bad Breath?

The best way to treat and prevent bad breath is with good and consistent oral hygiene habits. If the bad breath is not caused by an underlying health issue, it will usually go away with regular brushing and good hydration.

How to treat bad breath at home

1. Carefully brush the teeth and tongue twice a day, for at least 2 minutes each time.
2. Remember to floss daily.
3. Drink plenty of water.
4. Replace your toothbrush at least every 3 months.
5. Mouthwash can also help, but it’s essential to address the root of the problem.

Diet habits can also add to bad breath. Everybody knows how strong the effect of certain foods, such as onion or garlic, is on the breath – but, their effect is only temporary. If this is of concern to you, you may want to cut these foods from your diet. It’s also a good idea to avoid sugary foods, as they’re generally not good for the health of your teeth.

Treating bad breath at the dentist

When visiting your dentist to treat bad breath, the dentist will examine your mouth thoroughly and talk through the issue with you. They will discuss with you any potential causes, including medications you’re taking. When you book a teeth cleaning and check-up, your dentist will also remove any plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth.

If the cause of the bad breath is a decayed or infected tooth, potential treatments include putting in a filling, root canal treatment or, in case of severe decay, tooth extraction.

Are you suffering from bad breath?

Continuous bad breath is not just a minor inconvenience, it can have significant ripple effects on the quality of life. From a dental health perspective, bad breath is an issue to take seriously, as it may be a sign of poor dental hygiene habits or an underlying condition. Poor dental hygiene, in turn, can lead to other health issues, such as gum disease.

If you’re suffering from bad breath, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for a consultation and a check-up. At Dentistry on George, we offer complete and thorough check-ups that give your dental health the care and attention it deserves.

The post What Causes Bad Breath? first appeared on Dentistry on George.