Whites Dental Care

What is Invisalign?

Ashley — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 00:40:07 +0000

Are you one of the 55% of Australians who feel self-conscious about their teeth? You’re not alone. More than half of Australians believe that a good smile can give you confidence. With so many teeth straightening options available, it’s easier than ever before to improve your smile. And one of the most popular options is Invisalign – a modern approach to teeth straightening involving a series of clear aligners. Made from clear medical-grade plastic materials, these aligners are virtually invisible and custom-made to fit your teeth. Since Invisalign is still a relatively new treatment compared to traditional braces, let’s explore some common questions about Invisalign before consulting your dentist.

What does Invisalign treatment involve?

During your initial consultation, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to Invisalign labs to be scanned. At this point, they can digitally map your desired tooth movement all the way to the final result in an interactive image so you can see the process and expected outcome.

Using your scans, your custom-fit aligners are made and sent to your dentist for pick up. Then, roughly every six weeks, your dentist will want to see you to ensure your teeth are guided into the desired place and to give you your next sets of aligners.

In some cases, your dentist may adhere attachments to your teeth that act like anchors to help your aligners grip. Attachments are made from tooth coloured composite and are usually placed in the middle of a tooth. Whilst they’re not necessary, attachments are often used to enhance the work of your aligners and apply extra force to move teeth as intended.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

For adults, the average treatment time is around 12 months. But keep in mind, this timeframe may vary depending on the reason for you. Ultimately, the length of your treatment will depend on how many sets of aligners you need. And how committed you are to the process to achieve your desired tooth alignment.

Invisalign vs braces – what’s the difference?

Although some differences between Invisalign and traditional braces may seem obvious such as the physical appearance and design, there are other differences worth considering.

Whilst Invisalign looks to be the more practical choice, your dentist will make a recommendation based on your age and the state of your teeth. Despite the convenience of Invisalign, traditional braces are still a popular choice and sometimes necessary for correcting multiple dental problems.

Is Invisalign right for me?

There are a number of considerations before deciding if Invisalign is the right treatment for you.

If you’re a coffee drinker or smoker, your Invisalign aligners will start to yellow over time making the clear plastic less conspicuous. To avoid this, clean your aligners as often as you clean your teeth by soaking them in a mixture of half warm water and half vinegar, or by using a professional dental appliance cleaning solution.
Remember you’ll need to take out your aligners to eat and clean your teeth so it’s handy to keep a retainer case with you at all times.
You’ll need to keep a travel-size dental hygiene kit with you for an on-the-go brush after every meal.

Simply put, Invisalign treatment is a commitment of time, money, and effort. If you’re looking to achieve a straighter smile, make sure you talk to your dentist and consider all your options before making a decision. If you’re interested to find out what treatment is best for you, contact the team at Whites Dental Care to book a teeth straightening consultation.

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Play it safe with a custom-made mouthguard

Ashley — Wed, 24 Feb 2021 22:53:19 +0000

There are plenty of health benefits to participating in sport, but if you choose to play a contact sport including rugby league, rugby union, hockey, or a combat sport like MMA or boxing, you need to be mindful of potential dental injuries. These injuries might include cut lips, cheeks, and gums, chipped, broken or knocked-out teeth, or even a broken jaw.

According to Better Health, a custom-made sports mouthguard fitted by a dentist is your best bet to prevent dental injuries when participating in sports. So, what are the benefits of a custom-made mouthguard?

Aren’t there other types of mouthguards out there?

You might’ve heard of ‘boil and bite’ and ‘stock’ mouthguards – however, these options aren’t as adequate as one that’s been designed and made just for you. Essentially a ‘stock’ mouthguard is ready to wear and requires no preparation. ‘Stock’ mouthguards are a relatively inexpensive option and tend to be ill-fitting, limited in sizing, and can impact your breathing and speech.

The next step up would be a ‘boil and bite’ mouthguard. This type of mouthguard requires you to soften the mouthguard in boiling water and bite on it to create an impression in the internal fitting surface of the mouthguard for a better fit. Again, the ‘boil and bite’ mouthguard is an inexpensive option but can be uncomfortable, bulky to wear, and rarely fits properly. In our professional opinion, neither of these options is best for protecting your teeth and jaw from severe impact.

While custom-made mouthguards designed by professional dentists cost more than these options, the Australian Dental Association recommends them over generic one-size-fits-all options as they provide further protection to your teeth during play.

What should I be looking for in a custom-made mouthguard?

To prevent dental-related injuries, a custom-fit mouthguard should:

Be comfortable, but snug fitting.
Allow you to breathe and swallow.
Allow you to speak.
Not cause any gag reflex.
Be completely odourless and tasteless.
Be thick enough to provide adequate protection on impact.

What’s involved in getting a custom-made mouthguard?

During your first appointment, a dentist will take impressions of your upper and lower teeth by pressing a putty-like material in your mouth until the mould mimics every shape and contour of your teeth. Taking impressions is a quick, easy and painless procedure and when complete, the mould is used to produce a plaster model replica of your teeth.

Using the plaster replica, your dentist will fabricate your custom-fit mouthguard by layering a hot coloured thermoplastic over the cast using a vacuum like machine to achieve the closest possible fit. Once cooled, your mouthguard will fit snugly and cushion your teeth ready for the impact of contact sports.

After your first appointment, fabrication can take up to a week. And, compared to the cost of extensive restorative treatment, your mouthguard will cost a mere $250 or less if your health insurance provider covers a portion of the cost.

Is it really worth the investment?

Severe dental injury as a result of a blow to the mouth can lead to time off school and work, can be painful and disfiguring, and can lead to lengthy, complex, and expensive dental treatment. So it’s important to protect your teeth with a properly fitted custom mouthguard.

Here at Whites Dental Care, we can protect your teeth so you can focus on performing at your best. We offer a variety of mouthguard colours (your team colours) and varying thicknesses – depending on what level of protection you need for your chosen sport. We can even put your name and contact details on your mouthguard and provide you with a protective case for safe-keeping. Reach out to the Whites Dental Care team to get your custom-made mouthguard today.

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How to improve your dental health in 2021

Ashley — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 01:55:00 +0000

It’s official. The new year has begun. As has your commitment to your new year’s resolutions. You may have resolved to vow off fast food, go to the gym every morning, or learn a new language. But some resolutions can be more realistic and easier to commit to every day for that feeling of achievement come December 31. Yes, we’re talking about commitments to your dental health. And some are easier than you think. Read on to find out how to improve your dental health in 2021.

Be mindful of snacking

If you’re a regular snacker – regardless of the snack’s sugar content – it’s important to brush immediately after consumption. And it’s important to note that sugar isn’t only found in junk food. Honey, syrups, fruit juice, dairy, and even some high sugar fruits can be a danger to your teeth if consumed and not followed by a quick brush with toothpaste. Why? The bacteria in your mouth thrive on sugar and release acid as a waste product, which dissolves your tooth enamel over time. If this process happens regularly without intervention it can cause a buildup of plaque, eventually resulting in the formation of tooth decay.

Quit smoking

Most people know that smoking can cause cancer, but did you know it can also wreak havoc on your dental health? Not only is smoking associated with tooth staining and bad breath but the habit can increase your risk of gum disease and oral cancer. The nicotine in tobacco smoke is known to limit the blood flow to your gums which can disguise any consequences linked to these serious health conditions which can go unnoticed for years. If you’re a smoker, regular checkups enable early detection and your dentist can suggest suitable treatments alongside breaking your smoking habit.

Quitting may be difficult, but you’re guaranteed to feel the benefits straight away. And you’ll also reduce the risk of losing teeth or developing a serious condition over time. If you need support, the Australian Government Department of Health offers information and helpful resources to make a start.

Have a health condition? Pay attention to your teeth

You may not think pre-existing medical conditions play a part in the health of your teeth but the opposite is said to be true for both diabetes and heart disease. In fact, the factors in your blood that signal cells and regulate your body’s inflammatory response are compromised by diabetes and heart disease. So if you suffer from diabetes or an existing heart condition and you start showing signs of gum disease, your body reacts by releasing more of these factors into your bloodstream which may aggravate inflammatory responses in other organs of your body. In addition, these same factors make it more favourable for the creation of plaques in the arteries leading to heart disease.

Change your dental health habits

Do you practice behaviours that harm your teeth? Habits may be hard to break but they’re worth paying attention to for the sake of your dental health.

Brush twice a day and don’t forget to floss

If you’re like most Australians, you probably don’t put much thought into how you brush your teeth. It’s easy to squirt toothpaste on your brush and brush back and forth, but there’s more you can do to get the most out of your routine. According to the Australian Dental Association, it’s important to be mindful of your technique by brushing systematically. Start by brushing your teeth at the back of one side of your mouth moving to the front, using circular motions, and repeating on the opposite side. Continue this technique for at least two minutes each time you brush, both morning and night.

Don’t forget to floss! When done properly, flossing helps remove food and bacteria stuck in between your teeth where your brush can’t access. The word brush may come before floss in the dictionary but it’s important to form the habit of floss first, then brush. Together, a daily floss and brush routine can form the foundation for healthy teeth.

Be aware of how you use and treat your teeth

If you play a contact sport, and a lot of Aussies do, don’t risk injuring your teeth by neglecting to wear a sports mouthguard. It absorbs the impact of contact to the face during play. And when worn correctly, protects every tooth evenly and still allows you to speak and breathe normally when wearing it.

Do you gnaw on things you can’t easily open with your hands? Perhaps the lid on a fresh jar of jam or a pistachio you just can’t crack? Using your teeth as tools can cause them to crack or chip and create opportunities for tooth decay to take hold. In serious cases, if you break a tooth, you may have to have it permanently removed and replaced with a dental implant.

Book regular visits to your dentist

If visiting a dentist isn’t part of your dental health routine, it’s never too late to start forming the habit. Regular checkups are not only important for the health of your teeth but also for your gums and mouth as a whole. A visit is recommended every 6 to 12 months, but your dentist will suggest the right frequency for you depending on your oral health. During your checkup, your dentist will check:

Your oral hygiene routine and ask questions about your diet.
The health of teeth, lips, cheeks, and gums and any signs of tooth decay or gum disease.
The alignment of your teeth and jaws and look for any problems with your bite.

Visit Whites Dental Care for regular checkups

If you’re committed to better oral hygiene or want some advice on how to improve your dental health, contact our friendly team at Whites Dental Care today or book your appointment online. .

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The dangers of DIY dental

Ashley — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 02:21:29 +0000

Over the past few years, we’ve seen a dangerous trend that’s become particularly popular with young adults and teenagers. It’s called dental DIY, and ranges from consumer teeth whitening and mouthguards products right through to home orthodontic and teeth shaping treatments.

Some may see these DIY treatments marketed by unqualified influencers and celebrities on social media. And, they’re often presented as affordable and quick fixes for dental problems despite the severe risks. According to the American Dental Association, DIY dental procedures can actually harm the teeth, gums, bone, and the ligaments that support the teeth. There’s also a risk for long-term complications including problems with the jaw, an abnormal bite, gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.

Read on to learn about five dangerous do not try this at home dental trends.

1. Teeth whitening

As we age, our teeth naturally discolour. That, coupled with lifestyle choices such as drinking tea, coffee or dark coloured drinks, smoking, eating certain foods and taking medications, can cause staining and affect the appearance of your smile. A great way to reverse or minimise these stains is to use professional teeth whitening treatments. But beware, there are many inferior and dangerous products out there on the market unregulated, and therefore not proven to be safe or effective. So if you’re buying from an online supplier with claims that seem too good to be true, they probably are.

There are many risks to using DIY teeth whitening kits, including:

Injury to your health from the whitening agents. This could lead to stomach problems, mouth ulcers, gum damage, and nerve damage if there are cavities in your teeth.
Uneven whitening or bleach spots as a result of uneven application of the whitening agent.

Additionally, it’s unwise to use whitening trays that aren’t specially fitted for your mouth by a dentist because the hydrogen peroxide could leak from the trays and irritate or burn your gums. If your gums are recessed and the hydrogen peroxide touches an exposed tooth root surface, this can cause severe pain and, in some cases, a nasty infection.

2. Ultrasonic teeth cleaning

Some people may watch their dentist scrape away plaque and tartar from their teeth during their dental appointment and wonder why they can’t take care of that themselves at home for a fraction of the price.

However, cheap dentistry tools purchased online can cause severe gum damage, gum recession and can irritate or burn sensitive nerves due to the sharp surface and heat vibrations. And, you might be unable to identify when your oral tissues have been harmed. Tartar can also accidentally be pushed under the gumline, causing infections, pain and long term oral health problems. Conversely, dentists use more professional and sophisticated instruments with water that will flush away debris and tartar from the gum pockets to avoid gum irritation and infections.

3. Over the counter mouthguards

According to the Australian Dental Association (ADA), the cost of a teeth or jaw injury is far more expensive than that of a custom mouthguard. When you consider the fact that Australians spent $10.2 billion on dental services in 2016-2017, it should be a no-brainer. While custom-fitted mouthguards designed by dentists can be expensive to purchase upfront, the ADA recommends it over generic one-size-fits-all options as they provide further protection to an individual’s teeth.

Additionally, consumers have no way of knowing if the extension or fit of the mouthguard is adequate for their teeth protection. Nor are they aware of the quality of fabrication or materials of the product. Don’t risk your mouthguard falling out, becoming uncomfortable or irritating your gums. Invest in a mouthguard fit for you and you alone.

4. Teeth shaping

As reported in Bite Magazine, some TikTok users are remodelling their crooked teeth with nail files in a viral trend that dentists are dubbing ‘damaging and dumb’ and we couldn’t agree more. Shocking clips uploaded to the social media platform depict people attempting to fix their uneven smiles by using a nail file to sand their teeth down to size. What they’re attempting to achieve in dental terms is an enameloplasty: a reshaping procedure involving enamel removal that’s performed by a cosmetic dentist. However, unlike professionals who know how to do the job safely, an amateur could potentially remove vital coating, causing the tooth to become hypersensitive or even die. Don’t risk shortening the lifespan of your teeth and developing serious issues – always consult a dental or medical professional if you’re unhappy with the shape of your teeth.

5. Teeth aligning

Many people are attracted to the idea of having straighter teeth quickly and with the convenience of being at home. However, DIY braces or aligners without dentist supervision is not the answer. According to the ADA, there are many dangers and limitations of consumers attempting to move their own teeth with at-home kits.

Firstly, orthodontic treatment by dentists usually follows a series of critical steps: clinical examination, x-rays, diagnosis, and then expert treatment planning. These preliminary stages can reveal to a dentist several things:

If a patient has problems that will be made worse by orthodontic treatment such as undiagnosed gum disease.
There are hidden problems that will interfere with the orthodontic treatment such as unerupted extra teeth.
If the orthodontic complaint is related to a more serious underlying condition such as cancer or bone disorders.

Secondly, many DIY aligning products use materials that aren’t designed for use in the mouth which can lead to dental complications that are more severe than the original concern.

Always consult your dentist first

The bottom line is, don’t trust your teeth with anyone or anything other than registered dental and medical practitioners. Dentistry requires many years of expert training and specialised equipment that’s not easily acquired. And, your treatment needs to be preceded by careful examination including assessment of any underlying pathology, thorough treatment planning, careful execution and ongoing follow up and care.

Additionally, if something does go wrong, consumers have little or no redress for problems or damage caused to their oral health and oral structures by DIY products purchased online, particularly if they are provided by overseas manufacturers.

Don’t risk the life of your teeth, or your health with DIY dental – make an appointment with the friendly team at Whites Dental Care in Neutral Bay if you have any dental concerns.

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5 things you need to know about porcelain veneers

Ashley — Mon, 23 Nov 2020 21:29:00 +0000

Beautiful teeth make a lasting impression. But not everyone has teeth that make them want to smile. More than 50% of Australians feel embarrassed about the state of their teeth and almost two thirds, given the chance, would do something to change them. So it makes sense why cosmetic procedures like dental veneers are rising in popularity.

Once known as a temporary treatment only available to movie stars, veneer materials and techniques have since evolved and are now more durable and more affordable than ever before. And today they’re a solution for a range of teeth imperfections, including:

Broken or chipped teeth
Discoloured teeth
Small or oddly shaped teeth
Gappy or crooked teeth.

So if you’re considering investing in a smile makeover, we’ve compiled five things you need to know about this transformative procedure.

1. Porcelain veneers are a long-term solution

Each veneer is a thin semi-translucent shell of porcelain permanently fitted over your natural tooth which can change its shape, size, colour, or length. Despite how thin they are, porcelain shells are strong and particularly resistant to wear, fractures, and temperature changes. Even the hottest cup of coffee or the coldest milkshake won’t shake their foundations. Porcelain veneers are also resistant to stains due to their coating which keeps them looking brighter and healthier for longer. In fact, porcelain veneers can last up to 20 years with consistent care. So much like your natural teeth, veneers need flossing, brushing, and care when consuming hard foods to last.

2. Porcelain veneers can look perfectly natural

Porcelain veneers are designed to mimic your natural teeth so don’t be shocked to see the tiny grooves, bumps, and translucency of a real tooth in the finished product. After all, veneers are designed to enhance your smile while maintaining its character. Remember, the perfect smile is your natural looking smile.

3. Quality porcelain veneers need multiple appointments

The procedure for porcelain veneers is spread over multiple appointments which is important to ensure you’re satisfied with the end result. During the first appointment, your dentist will take X-rays, an impression of your bite, and create a wax-based mock set of veneers for your review.

During your second appointment, the thickness of your teeth will be slightly reduced to create space in your mouth for the veneers. A second mold of your teeth is then taken and temporary plastic veneers will be fitted over your teeth to replicate the look and feel of veneers.

After your customised porcelain veneers are produced in a specialised lab, your third appointment will involve a comprehensive teeth clean, veneer application, and polish for a natural look.

4. Veneers need time to bond to your teeth

Following the application of your porcelain veneers, it’s important to allow the veneers time to bond to your natural teeth. During this period, avoid biting down or chewing on hard items that put pressure on your teeth like opening bottles, biting nails, or chewing on ice. When it comes to brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste that your dentist recommends.

5. Veneers aren’t for everyone

Veneers require a healthy tooth for a strong foundation. So, if you have significant tooth decay, gum disease, damage to your teeth from grinding, or you have a history of root canals or fillings to the front of your teeth, veneers may not be the right cosmetic solution for you. Our friendly team of dentists can suggest alternative solutions for teeth with structural problems if veneers aren’t a suitable option for you.

Trust Whites Dental Care for quality results

Dental veneers can have a big impact on your smile, confidence, and overall health, so it’s important to see a skilled dentist who can deliver quality results. The professional team at Whites Dental Care have over 20 years of experience providing high quality cosmetic dentistry in the Neutral Bay area. They’re the experts when it comes to enhancing smiles and can make the porcelain veneers procedure a pleasant and painless one. To book your consultation, contact Whites Dental Care, or book your visit online.

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What is bruxism?

Ashley — Mon, 26 Oct 2020 02:17:39 +0000

If you’ve ever woken up with a sore jaw, headache, or aching teeth, you’re not alone. You could be one of the millions of people suffering from bruxism, better known as “teeth grinding”. The cause is not always clear but it’s considered a common (and subconscious) reaction to stress or anxiety. Even children adopt the habit. Up to 33 per cent of children grind their teeth when their baby teeth or permanent teeth start to emerge. But most kids outgrow bruxism over time, unlike adults.

Teeth clenching is also associated with the condition. Rather than grinding your teeth horizontally or back-and-forth whilst your teeth are clenched, you could just be clamping your jaw together with force whilst you sleep. So if you don’t know you’re doing it, how do you know if you’re a teeth clencher or grinder and what can you do to treat the habit?

Signs of the nightly grind

Ever concentrated so hard or lifted something so heavy, you’ve caught yourself clenching your teeth? It’s easily noticed whilst you’re awake, but clenching or grinding is more common during sleep so the habit may go unnoticed. Signs and symptoms of bruxism include:

Tender or tight jaw muscles
Fractured, chipped, loose or aching teeth
A dull headache, sore jaws, and/or ear pain
Stiffness in the face and temples, especially after you’ve just woken up

Effects of bruxism

Over time, excessive teeth grinding can cause significant damage to the structure and functionality of your teeth. Dental implants included. The friction caused by grinding wears away the biting surfaces of your teeth. This is called attrition and can lead to the loss of tooth enamel, fractures, and permanent damage to your teeth. The pressure caused by grinding can also lead to dental abfractions – v-shaped notches that appear at your tooth’s gum border. These notches can cause sensitivity to cold, acids, and sweets and can bring about decay if not cleaned properly.

The effects don’t end there. Chronic bruxism can also lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. Your TMJ acts like a sliding hinge, which connects your jawbone to your skull. Frequent teeth grinding can cause pain, clicking, or locking of this joint as well as muscular headaches.

Treatment

The good news? Bruxism is treatable. Some remedies may work better than others depending on the underlying cause and severity of your habit. Managing stress, practicing good sleep habits, and limiting your caffeine intake before bed may help reduce the impacts of teeth grinding. But if you’re looking for a more fool-proof treatment, there are other options.

Facial injectables, otherwise known as anti-wrinkle injections, can help ease your aching jaw by relaxing your masseter – the meaty jaw muscle responsible for chewing and biting. Although it isn’t a cure for bruxism, injectables help relax and weaken the muscle which in turn can provide relief from TMJ and grinding related headaches. The benefits typically last anywhere between three to six months depending on the dosage, so follow up treatments with your dentist are recommended for long-term relief.

If the thought of needles has you feeling queasy, ask your dentist about an occlusal splint – a custom plastic moulded mouthguard. Worn during sleep, a splint offers a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth and can reduce strain on your jaw if you’re an avid clencher. Whilst some pharmacies stock single-use mouthguards, custom fit dental splints are typically more comfortable, durable, easy to clean, and worth the investment for long-term use.

Talk to Whites Dental Care

Since bruxism is hard to identify, contact us as soon as you notice any signs. Your dentist will examine your teeth and ask questions about medications, your daily routine, and your sleep habits to help make a diagnosis.

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What you need to know about the cost of dentistry

Ashley — Mon, 28 Sep 2020 01:35:40 +0000

Most dental conditions such as tooth decay and gum disease are largely preventable. Yet in 2017-18, 72,000 Australians were hospitalised as a result of these conditions and the trip may have been prevented with earlier attention. But why do so many of us ignore the warning signs and leave dental problems untreated? For some, it’s a lack of time. But for a majority of people it’s the cost. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), 40 per cent of Australians delay or avoid a trip to the dentist due to price. So, here’s what you need to consider when weighing up the cost of your next dental appointment.

Invest now for a future of healthy teeth

A visit to your dentist every six months for a comprehensive dental exam can save you future pain, time, and, not surprisingly, money. During your checkup, your dentist will assess the condition of your teeth and gums. Using diagnostic equipment, they’ll also check for warning signs of underlying conditions such as tooth decay, changes in gum health, or damage to previous dental work.

Regular exams can help minimise the risk of extensive and more costly treatment in the future. If you don’t keep up the habit of regular dental checkup and cleans, you might find your next dental treatment could cost you more than what you expected.

Strapped for cash?

Depending on the state of your oral health, we understand that visits to the dentist can add up over time. Nevertheless, you have options if you find yourself keeping a close eye on your bank account.

Prepare a dental budget

It’s common to budget for expenses like groceries and petrol. But putting money aside for dental treatments can give you peace of mind when it comes time for your next appointment. Whether you save a portion of your weekly salary, set aside interest, or commit to dedicating your tax refund to treatments, you might find your next visit to the dentist less stressful. Plus if you find yourself in a dental emergency in the future, having access to these savings might mean you won’t have to resort to maxing out credit cards or taking out loans with high-interest rates.

Explore your health insurance options

Private health insurance isn’t compulsory in Australia, but it can help you pay for health care costs that Medicare doesn’t cover, such as dental work. Depending on your policy, most health insurance providers offer the ability to pay your insurance in monthly instalments making it easier to budget for upcoming dental treatments.

Alternatively, if you have a healthcare or pensioner concession card, you might be eligible for free general and preventative care. To check if you qualify, contact Medicare.

Avoid overseas dental work

Considering overseas dental to save a buck? Think again. Australia’s sterilisation procedures are far more thorough compared to dentists abroad. It’s worth the price to feel safe, comfortable, and confident in the treatment you’re provided when facing dental work. Our dentists are also heavily monitored by the government who apply strict follow-up procedures for any treatment you may feel doesn’t meet your expectations. An assurance not offered by dentists overseas.

Find an affordable dentist

Since there are no standard fees for dental treatments in Australia, dentists’ prices vary from clinic to clinic. Factors such as the materials needed, and difficulty and time involved in procedures, can influence the price.

At Whites Dental Care, we’re proud to offer competitive pricing to ensure you get value for money. We offer payment plans and break down the costs and the number of appointments you’ll require, so you know the price up-front before committing to a treatment plan. We’re also a Bupa Members First Provider and offer great benefits on dental care to patients who are Bupa health fund members.

You can’t put a price on dentistry

How you spend your hard-earned cash is up to you. But quality dental treatments are a valuable investment for the sake of your overall health. After all, we only get one set of adult teeth in a lifetime so it’s worth what you spend to keep them clean and healthy. Looking for an affordable dentist? Contact us or book your visit online.

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How poor oral health can affect your overall well-being

Ashley — Mon, 17 Aug 2020 06:21:00 +0000

Ever wondered what affect your oral health has on your overall health and wellbeing? Poor oral health can impact your mental and physical state by impeding your ability to eat, speak, and smile. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and often embarrassment. According to Australia’s National Oral Health Plan, poor oral health can be preventable. However, it remains one of the most chronic health problems in Australia. In fact, more than 63,000 Australians are hospitalised each year. Dr Peter Marinovic, Principal Dentist at Whites Dental Care says, ‘Dentists are trained to diagnose problems well before patients become aware of them’. With this in mind, regular check-ups could help decrease this number.

In his latest article, he shares his knowledge, tips, and expert advice on how to look after your oral health. His insight can help prevent long term dental problems and expensive treatments. “Maintaining your oral health involves getting the right oral care products and treatments, as well as being mindful of your daily habits”, says Dr Peter Marinovic. Find out more in his latest article featured on The Carousel – an online platform devoted to sharing information about women’s interests from health and wellness to fashion, travel, technology, and news.

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Keep your oral health in check this Dental Health Week

Ashley — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 07:10:21 +0000

August 3 to August 9 is Dental Health Week, an initiative by the Australian Dental Association (ADA) to educate people about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene. This year, the ADA is throwing a spotlight on hidden sugars in the foods and drinks we consume, raising the question – how much sugar is hiding in your trolley?

As tempting as it is to think that we make healthy choices when it comes to the weekly grocery shop, it’s proven that 73% of young people aged 14-18 years are consuming too much sugar. And the statistics for adults aren’t much better. 47% of people aged 18 and over favour sugar-filled food and drinks over healthier alternatives.

It’s no surprise that a high sugar diet is bad for your health, but it also kick-starts the metabolism of oral bacteria. Whilst you can’t see them, your mouth is home to 300 different bacterial species. The most common species goes by the name of streptococcus mutans, a bacteria which lives in your mouth and feeds on the sugars that you eat for energy. As it feeds, it releases enamel eroding acids which make streptococcus mutans the main cause of tooth decay.

So, to minimise tooth decay, what can you do to easily transition to a low sugar diet to protect the health of your teeth?

Rethink your drink

According to the Department of Health, a 600ml bottle of soft drink contains 15 teaspoons of sugar. That’s more than double the recommended daily intake of sugar for a healthy adult. Don’t be fooled by soft drink alternatives such as fruit juices, flavoured milks or energy drinks. Whilst they may claim to be a healthier option, nothing beats good old H20. Better yet, tap water in most areas of Australia contains fluoride. Fluoride is known to prevent the growth of harmful oral bacteria and rebuild weakened tooth enamel. So, drink up!

Steer the sweet tooth

If you can’t resist adding something sweet to your tea or coffee, artificial sweeteners are a healthier alternative. Unlike sugar, artificial sweeteners are proven to be non-cariogenic, which means they don’t cause tooth decay or cavities. Whilst artificial sweeteners are kinder to your oral health, this doesn’t mean that you should replace foods and drinks containing added sugar with those containing sweeteners. It’s common for sweeteners to replace sugar in foods that are low in nutritional value. So, by reducing your intake of these foods, it leaves room in your diet for fruits and vegetables which are high in vitamins, minerals and fibre.

Get sugar savvy

Not all sugar should be treated equally. Natural sugars, present in unprocessed foods and drinks such as milk, fruit, and unflavoured yoghurt, aren’t harmful when consumed in moderation. In fact, these foods and drinks contain vitamins and minerals which are great for the body. It’s processed foods which should be enjoyed in moderation. These foods often contain large quantities of added sugar and are limited in nutritional value. Beware, supermarket products that claim they contain ‘no added sugar’ can still have a high sugar content.

Snack wisely

Any type of sugar ingested is likely to linger in your mouth for up to 2 hours after consumption. If consumed frequently, processed and high concentration sugars are known to be harmful to the body. But even natural sugars found in fruit or grains can lead to tooth decay. If you’re a frequent snacker, an extra brush during the day or sip of water will help fight the onset of decay.

Sugar talk aside, Dental Health Week is a great reminder to focus on your oral health and change unhealthy habits. Remember to brush your teeth twice a day, (ideally with fluoride toothpaste), floss daily, and eat a healthy low-sugar diet.

Interested in a dental health check? Contact the team at Whites Dental Care for a dental check-up and clean. Our dentists will make recommendations on what’s best for your oral health. Book your visit online.

The post Keep your oral health in check this Dental Health Week appeared first on Whites Dental Care.

What to consider before getting dental implants

Ashley — Wed, 22 Jul 2020 04:37:44 +0000

Australians aged 15 and over have an average of 12.8 decayed, missing or filled teeth. This statistic proves we aren’t paying our teeth the attention they deserve. So what happens if a severely decayed tooth needs removing or you suffer from missing teeth? If not replaced, your surrounding teeth can quickly move into the missing spot and your jaw bone can break down, causing an uneven bite. Missing teeth can also affect your lifestyle by causing you to avoid hard foods and feel uncomfortable about your appearance. Whilst there are many options to consider to replace missing teeth, due to their high success rate, more patients are choosing dental implants.

What are dental implants?

Simply put, a dental implant is an artificial tooth. But unlike removable dentures, dental implants are permanently fixed into your jaw bone beneath your gums. A titanium screw-like post supports the fixture of a tooth-shaped dental crown to create an artificial yet natural-looking tooth.

When would I need dental implants?

There are a few reasons why you might need dental implants:

You have missing or severely broken teeth
You’re looking for a more permanent solution to removable dentures
A severe gum infection (known as periodontitis) has caused the need for one or more teeth to be removed.

Despite your reason for needing dental implants, replacing missing teeth quickly can help restore good oral health. And help you reclaim an aesthetically pleasing smile and reduce any risk of future dental problems.

What does the procedure involve?

After placing you under a local anaesthetic, your dentist will carefully remove the damaged tooth and, if necessary, prepare the jawbone for grafting—occasionally needed to restore or rebuild the underlying bone. There are two phases in the dental implant procedure to allow your mouth time to heal between appointments.

Phase one: Placing the implant.

Your dentist will place the implant post in your jaw which acts as your artificial tooth’s root. A healing cap is then placed over the dental implant to help support your gum tissue to heal around the implant site. Once placed, it can take several months for the jaw bone to integrate with the dental implant to create a solid base for your new tooth.

Phase two: Attaching the crown.

When your bone has successfully connected to the implant (typically after a period of four months), your dentist will take impressions of your mouth and remaining teeth. They’ll then use them to make your crown—your new natural-looking artificial tooth.

Are dental implants right for me?

Although the process takes time, the results are worth the wait. But before you commit to dental implants, there are factors you should consider before booking an appointment:

If you take osteoporosis medication, let your dentist know. Osteoporosis affects the health of your bones so your dentist will likely refer to your medical history to make a recommendation if implants are suitable for you.
Patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of infection of the implant site and may experience a longer healing period. Whilst still an option to replace missing teeth, you may require pre and post implant care to minimise the risk of failure.
If you smoke, it’s likely your dentist will recommend that you break the habit to allow the implant to fuse to your jaw bone. The nicotine in cigarettes is proven to reduce blood flow, especially around the mouth. Slow circulation of blood to the treatment area can slow down or even prevent your mouth from healing. Therefore, smokers are at high risk of implant failure.
To be considered for dental implants, you must have a fully developed jaw. This means that children under the age of 18 aren’t suitable candidates for implants.

All things considered, if you’re well, have healthy gums and strong jawbones, it’s likely that you’re a good candidate for dental implants. If you’re still unsure if dental implants are right for you, contact our team at Whites Dental Care for a free implant consultation.

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