Category: Dental Health

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about this often overlooked but serious health condition. Oral cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or lifestyle. However, with early detection and prompt treatment, it is highly curable. At The Smile Clinic, our Dentist Wantirna is committed to spreading awareness about oral cancer and the importance of regular screenings for early detection.

Understanding Oral Cancer

Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, inner lining of the cheeks, roof or floor of the mouth, and the throat. While tobacco and alcohol use are significant risk factors for oral cancer, it’s essential to note that anyone can develop the disease, including non-smokers and individuals with no history of alcohol consumption.

Signs and Symptoms

Early detection of oral cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Knowing the signs and symptoms can help detect the disease in its early stages. Some common signs of oral cancer include:

– Persistent mouth sores that do not heal

– Red or white patches in the mouth

– Unexplained bleeding or numbness in the mouth

– Difficulty chewing or swallowing

– Chronic sore throat or hoarseness

– A lump or thickening in the mouth or neck

If you experience any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Boronia for a thorough evaluation.

The Importance of Regular Screenings

Regular oral cancer screenings are a vital component of preventive dental care. During a screening, our dentist will examine your mouth and throat for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. The process is quick, painless, and can be performed during your routine dental check-up.

Early detection of oral cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. By detecting the disease in its early stages, treatment options are less invasive, and the prognosis is generally more favourable. That’s why it’s crucial to prioritise regular dental check-ups and screenings, even if you have no symptoms or risk factors.

Reduce Your Risk

While certain risk factors for oral cancer, such as age and genetics, are beyond our control, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Quit Smoking: Tobacco use, including smoking and smokeless tobacco, significantly increases the risk of oral cancer. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to lower your risk.

2. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption is another significant risk factor for oral cancer. Limiting your alcohol intake can help reduce your risk.

3. Practise Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing daily, can help reduce the risk of oral cancer and other oral health problems.

4. Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential nutrients that may help reduce the risk of oral cancer.

Spread Awareness, Save Lives

By raising awareness about oral cancer and the importance of early detection, we can save lives. Encourage your friends, family, and loved ones to prioritise regular dental check-ups and screenings. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against oral cancer.

At The Smile Clinic, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care, including oral cancer screenings, to our patients. Schedule your appointment today with our dentist Wantirna and take the first step towards protecting your oral health and oral hygiene. Remember, early detection saves lives!

Dental sealants have been a vital tool in the fight against tooth decay for several decades now. In the current age of advanced dental technology, the use of dental sealants has become more prevalent than ever before. These thin protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth and serve as a barrier between the tooth and the plaque and bacteria that cause decay. Dental sealants are especially important for children and teenagers, as they are more susceptible to cavities due to their developing teeth and oral hygiene habits.

However, dental sealants can benefit individuals of all ages and have proven to be an effective preventative measure against tooth decay. If you’re in Wantirna South, consulting with a trusted Wantirna South Dentist can help you determine if dental sealants are right for you or your child’s oral health needs.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the surfaces of teeth, typically the molars and premolars in the back of the mouth. These teeth have grooves and fissures that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush and therefore can be more susceptible to decay. Dental sealants work by forming a protective barrier over these grooves and fissures, preventing food particles, bacteria, and plaque from accumulating and causing decay.

The application process is quick and painless and typically involves cleaning and drying the teeth, applying a bonding agent, and then painting on the sealant material. Once the sealant is in place, it can last for several years and is a highly effective method of preventing tooth decay in children and adults.

How Dental Sealants Work

Dental sealants are a preventive measure that has been used for decades in the fight against tooth decay. These thin plastic coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth, typically on the molars and premolars, where decay is most likely to occur. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting the tooth enamel from the harmful effects of bacteria and acid. The process of applying dental sealants is quick and painless, requiring no drilling or removal of tooth structure.

Our dentist Boronia first apply sealant. Once the sealant is applied, it hardens and bonds to the tooth, creating a smooth and protective surface that can last for several years. Overall, dental sealants are an effective way to prevent tooth decay in children and adults alike and can play a significant role in maintaining good oral health.

The Application Process

The application process for dental sealants is a straightforward and non-invasive procedure that can be completed by a dentist or dental hygienist. First, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and dried. Then, an acid solution is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to roughen them up, which helps the sealant bond to the teeth more effectively. After rinsing and drying the teeth again, the sealant material is carefully painted onto the chewing surfaces of the teeth and allowed to harden.

The process is quick and painless, usually taking only a few minutes per tooth. It is important to note that dental sealants are most effective when applied to newly erupted permanent teeth before decay has a chance to develop. Regular check-ups with a dentist can help identify when sealants are needed and ensure their continued effectiveness in preventing tooth decay.

Long-lasting protection against decay

Dental sealants are an effective preventive measure for protecting teeth against decay. When applied, sealants create a barrier on the chewing surfaces of teeth, preventing food particles and bacteria from settling in the crevices. One of the key benefits of dental sealants is their long-lasting protection against decay. Sealants can last for many years, providing a strong defence against the damaging effects of tooth decay.

This is especially important for children and adolescents, who are at a higher risk of developing cavities due to their diets and oral hygiene habits. By applying sealants to their teeth, we can help ensure they maintain good oral health and reduce their risk of tooth decay. Overall, the role of dental sealants in preventing tooth decay cannot be understated, and they should be considered an important part of any preventive dental care plan.

Caring for Dental Sealants

Caring for dental sealants is an important part of maintaining good oral health and preventing tooth decay. After a dental professional applies the sealant to a tooth, it is essential to follow a few simple steps to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Firstly, it is crucial to maintain a regular oral hygiene routine of brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. Additionally, avoid chewing on hard objects or eating sticky foods that could damage the sealant. It is also recommended to visit the dentist regularly for check-ups to monitor the sealant’s condition and identify any potential issues early on. With proper care and maintenance, dental sealants can protect teeth from decay for several years, making them a valuable tool in maintaining oral health.

In conclusion, dental sealant are an effective tool in preventing tooth decay, particularly in children and teens. By creating a barrier between the tooth’s surface and harmful bacteria, sealants can significantly reduce the risk of cavities. However, sealants are not a substitute for good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. It is important for parents and caregivers to work with their dental professionals to determine if sealants are appropriate for their children and to follow proper care and maintenance guidelines to ensure optimal results.

While we typically all get a new toothbrush from the dentist Boronia on our 6-month cleaning, is that when you are supposed to change out your toothbrush?  We thought it was time to let everyone know how often and why you would change out your toothbrush.

Your toothbrush is used to get plaque and food out and around your teeth.  If you think about it, it can get kind of gross.  If your toothbrush ends up really gross, change it then, of course, these are simply guides.  Some people will want to change more often, which is fine.  The point is that you actually change out the toothbrush and don’t use the same one for a year or years in some cases.  

How often will also depend on how often you brush your teeth.  While some people only brush their teeth once or twice a day, others will brush after each and every meal. If you are a person that brushes several times a day, your toothbrush will wear out more quickly.  You will have to change out your toothbrush every 12-16 weeks, in this case.  The bristles will eventually start to fray and when that happens the fibers aren’t strong enough to clean your teeth properly. 

Follow your electric toothbrush’s recommendations

If you use an electric toothbrush, you should follow the instructions of that particular manufacturer.  Of course, you will need to use the guide of how often and a little common sense.  Usually, though, the electric toothbrushes will have color on their bristles.  When the color is worn off, it is time for a new head. This will wear off more quickly for those that are using their toothbrush more.  

Electric toothbrush heads can be a little expensive.  However, if you try to stretch it you are not doing your teeth any favors. They are made to vibrate and rotate rapidly, which means that they will most likely wear rather quickly.  Electric toothbrushes can certainly be an effective tool, however, when used properly.  

While some people think they should get rid of their toothbrushes after being sick, this simply isn’t true.  Yes, your toothbrush will house germs.  However, they are germs that your body has built up antibodies to.  This means that you will not reinfect yourself should you use it.  However, if you house your toothbrush with your families, you could infect them.  Try to keep your toothbrushes from touching.  

How to clean your toothbrush of germs.

Also, you can rinse your toothbrush with some mouthwash to clean it well, then run it underwater.  The alcohol in the mouthwash will disinfect the toothbrush, should you feel it necessary.  

Make sure the bristles on your toothbrush remain stiff and springy.  As you use it the bristles will wear down and become softer overtime.  This is a good sign that it is time to invest in a new toothbrush.  Also, check between the bristles.  Over time gunk can build up at the base of the bristle.  This gunk can be a breeding ground for bacteria. If you have gunk, it is time for a new toothbrush ASAP.  

We do recommend that you purchase a new toothbrush and always have one on hand.  After all, you never know when you might notice that it’s time for a replacement.  It is better to be prepared than not. 

FAQ

How often should I brush my teeth?

While twice a day is the best, we want to see you brush at least once a day. If you only do it once a day, try to do it before bedtime.  Otherwise, the morning and night are the best time. While some people like to brush after each meal, this isn’t necessary.

What toothbrush should I use?

A little overwhelmed in the toothbrush aisle?  We understand, there are so many.  But, really it comes down to personal preference.  Just pick one that you like the feel of and don’t be shy to try something different.

How should I store my toothbrush?

In a nice clean and dry area where it can dry out and not harbor bacteria growth.