Oral Health tips for Babies and Toddlers

A good oral health routine from when your children are young is very important in establishing good oral hygiene habits. In this blog, we will discuss our top oral health tips for babies and toddlers, helping you to ensure they develop beautiful, healthy smiles.

Breastfeeding

For this Oral health tips blog, we won’t go into detail when it comes to breastfeeding and bottle feeding, however it is commonly accepted that if you can breastfeed, this is best for your baby. Breastfeeding in particular allows your baby to develop proper tongue placement and suckling habits – which is great for the development of their jaws. Read more about this here.

In the first 6 months of your baby’s life, breast milk or infant formula provides all the nourishment they need. Once your baby has finished feeding, it’s important to remove them from the breast or bottle.

Sleeping with a bottle

When babies fall asleep with a bottle, some of the milk remains in their mouth and on their teeth. Because this can cause tooth decay, and also increase the risk of choking and ear infection. We recommend that you do not allow your child to bring the bottle to bed. Furthermore, this can have a detrimental effect on the shape of the jaws if your child suckles on the teat the whole night – this constant pressure can reshape the jaw into a narrow, V-shaped arch with a large overjet.

Using Cups from 6 months of age

Between 6 and 12 months, your baby can progress from drinking from a bottle to a cup. When babies reach the age of 12 months, they should only drink from a cup. There are lots of different cups out there, including the non-spill versions. Using a cup discourages the improper placement of the tongue, again changing the shape of the upper jaw and tongue thrusting.

Water is the best drink for everyone

Water should be your toddler’s go-to drink, making sure they drink tap water throughout each day. For babies aged under 12 months, tap water should be boiled and cooled before drinking.

In Melbourne, our water is fluoridated, which helps protect teeth from decay. In contrast, most shop-bought bottled water doesn’t contain fluoride.

Drinking Milk

Milk is a good source of calcium which helps make teeth strong and healthy. While babies under 12 months should be drinking breastmilk or infant formula, children aged 1 to 2 years can drink plain full fat cow’s milk.

After 2 years of age, low-fat milk is suitable. Note that flavoured and formula milk may have added sugar which can cause tooth decay.

Nobody needs fruit juice or sweet drinks

Fruit juice and sweet drinks can greatly increase the risk of tooth decay and are not recommended for children under 12 months. Important to note, fruit juice with ‘no added sugar’ still contains natural sugar, which can also cause tooth decay. Diet soft drinks contain acids which can also damage teeth. Sweet drinks that should be avoided completely include soft drinks, fruit juice, sports drinks, cordial, tea drinks, fruit drinks and energy drinks.

Healthy meals and snacks are important for healthy teeth

From 12 month of age, children should be enjoying a wide variety of healthy foods, similar to the rest of the family’s diet. They learn about eating food from watching their parents and other family members and so it’s important to set a good example and create healthy habits. Solid foods are also important for jaw development (improving the jaw shape, size and muscles).

Another interesting fact is that babies don’t have a preference for sweetness. With many common foods containing sugar, it’s actually something they become accustomed to when they consume sweet foods and drinks regularly. We recommend avoiding anything sugary in their formative years.

Cleaning your baby’s teeth when they appear

As your baby’s teeth erupt, you can begin cleaning them by wiping them with a soft cloth or brushing with a small toothbrush and water. At 12 months, you can begin using a pea-sized amount of low-fluoride toothpaste to brush your child’s teeth. Make sure they spit out the toothpaste after brushing but do not rinse. Some children take a while to get used to spitting out so monitor this closely before proceeding to the next type of toothpaste.

Most children will need an adult to help them brush their teeth and gums twice a day until they reach 7 to 8 years old. Remember, you can floss your babies teeth even if there are lots of gaps. It’s important to establish good oral hygiene habits early.

Book your child in for a dental visit at or before 2 years of age

Your toddler’s first oral health assessment can be provided by a dentist, oral health professional, child health nurse or doctor. Beginning regular check-ups from the age of 2 enables any dental problems to be identified early and treated in its early stages. We also encourage taking X-rays and cleaning their teeth professionally early – which helps develop good oral hygiene habits. Oral Health tips for Babies and Toddlers are important for all parents to know.

Oral health is important for the whole family

Babies are not born with the bacteria that causes tooth decay. Did you know that often parents and carers pass this bacteria to babies? To help prevent this, we recommend that:

  • Everyone in the family brushes their teeth twice a day with their own toothbrush. Don’t forget about the flossing!
  • Everyone (including pregnant women) have a regular dental check-up so that any tooth decay can be promptly treated.
  • Try to avoid putting anything in your baby’s mouth if it’s been in your mouth. For example, sharing spoons or cleaning dummies by putting them in your mouth.

How Cranbourne North Dental Can Help With Your Teeth

At Cranbourne North Dental, we are committed to providing expert care to effectively address your kid’s teeth and gum health. Our approach begins with personalised assessments, where we thoroughly examine your symptoms, jaw, teeth, and bite alignment to identify the root cause of your discomfort. 

Using advanced dental technology, we ensure accurate diagnostics to guide the most effective treatment plan. Throughout the process, our compassionate team offers ongoing support, guidance and follow-up care. If you want to learn more about Oral Health tips for Babies and Toddlers, contact us to organise a visit to check your oral health and overall wellbeing with patient-focused, professional care. 

The Maryland bridge is a lesser-known type of dental bridge often overlooked by patients. Developed and popularised by the University of Maryland in the early 1980s, Maryland Bridges provide a cost-effective option, particularly for patients seeking a conservative approach.

What is a Maryland Bridge?

A Maryland Bridge is a prosthetic item that is used when a single front tooth is missing. The most common teeth to be replaced with a Maryland Bridge is the bottom or top front teeth. Unlike traditional Dental Bridges, Maryland Bridges use a metal or porcelain framework and a wing to bond to the back of adjacent teeth, offering a minimally invasive solution for replacing missing teeth.

These bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, ceramics such as E.Max (Lithium Disilicate) or Monolithic Zirconia, and even metals like such as gold.

The benefit of a Maryland Bridge is that there is much less preparation and thereby, damage done to the surrounding teeth in order to construct a Bridge.

How long do Maryland Bridges last?

Maryland Bridges are a popular choice for tooth replacement, with a typical lifespan of 7-10 years or more. Key to the success and longevity of a Maryland Bridge is a favourable bite alignment — meaning the bridge should avoid direct impact when moving teeth side-to-side or front-to-back. Because they are not as strong as other prosthetics, it’s best to avoid biting hard foods directly on them. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a Maryland Bridge can last longer, and if it becomes dislodged, it can often be re-bonded.

Do  you need to drill my tooth for the Bridge?

When considering a Maryland Bridge, it’s essential to understand the two types available, each with different requirements for tooth preparation:

No preparation This requires no drilling on the adjacent teeth. Instead, the teeth are cleaned and prepared using special dental materials like etchants and bonding systems. While this approach is more conservative, it can be slightly more challenging to seat and bond firmly compared to bridges with minimal preparation.

Minimal Preparation In this type, the adjacent teeth undergo very minimal drilling to create space and enhance retention for the bridge wings. This slight preparation allows the wings to fit more accurately and securely.

Each option has its benefits, and our team of Dentists can recommend the best type based on your specific dental needs.

How much does a Maryland Bridge cost?

The cost of a Maryland Bridge can vary based on factors like the material chosen and the complexity of the procedure. Generally, Maryland Bridges are more affordable than traditional 3-unit bridges, making them a popular choice for patients seeking a cost-effective tooth replacement. It’s also important to discuss potential re-bonding costs with your dentist, as these may vary depending on the case if the bridge becomes dislodged.

For personalised cost estimates and options, consult with our Team to find the right fit for your dental needs.

How do I clean my Maryland Bridge?

Cleaning a Maryland Bridge requires special care due to its design, which joins two natural teeth with one artificial tooth, making conventional flossing impossible. To maintain optimal oral hygiene and extend the life of your dental bridge, it’s recommended to use tools like Superfloss or interdental brushes to clean under and around the bridge. These tools help remove plaque and debris, keeping surrounding teeth and gums healthy. Proper cleaning is essential for the longevity of your Maryland Bridge and overall dental health

What are other alternatives if I don’t want a Maryland Bridge for Replacing Missing teeth?

If a Maryland Bridge isn’t the right choice for you, there are several other effective options for replacing missing teeth. Alternatives include dental implants, dentures, natural tooth bridges, cantilever bridges, and traditional dental bridges. In some instances, Orthodontic Treatment such as braces or Clear Aligners may be possible to close the space. Each of these solutions offers unique benefits, so it’s essential to choose one that suits your cosmetic and functional needs. In some cases, if the gap is not visible or does not affect oral function, leaving the space as is may be a viable option.

Summary

The Maryland Bridge’s conservative approach makes it a popular choice for patients seeking a tooth replacement option that preserves as much natural tooth structure as possible. Discover if the Maryland Bridge is the right solution for you today by contacting our team now!

 

Why is Oral Hygiene Important?

Good oral hygiene helps to prevent a range of dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath. While brushing your teeth every morning and night is a great start, proper effective oral hygiene requires a bit more work and commitment.

Correct brushing techniques

It is important to brush your teeth twice a day, for 2 minutes long. Any less than this possibly means you are not cleaning your teeth as effectively as you should be. Brush your teeth in a circular motion, whilst covering all the surfaces of the tooth. Don’t forget to brush the inside and outside surfaces! Angle the brush 45 degrees into the gum when cleaning around the gumline. This helps to get the bristles under the gum a little to get rid of plaque.

Ensure that you use a SOFT bristle brush. Anything harder may damage your gums and may cause recession (and hence sensitivity). A manual or electric toothbrush is a personal preference. Both are equally effective in cleaning however the electric brush does the circular movement which makes it easier for some.

What toothpaste should I use?

It’s important that you choose a toothpaste that is fluoridated. Fluoride helps to harden enamel and reduces the risk of decay. Children under 6 should be using a low-fluoride version and child older can use a pea-sized amount of adult toothpaste.

What about flossing?

Flossing, or cleaning between your teeth is equally as important as brushing twice a day. If you do not floss, you will miss about 30% of the tooth’s surfaces. These areas are a potential hole waiting to happen. You’ll notice as well that your gums may bleed more easily if you haven’t flossed for a while – this is a sign of gum disease. We recommend running the floss around your middle fingers and using your index finger &/or thumb to run the floss down between your teeth in a slow, gentle, sawing motion. If you have large gaps between your teeth, interdental brushes like the Piksters we sell are much easier to use than floss.

Is there anything else I should know?

Having a good diet not only benefits your oral health, but also your general health as well. It is important that you try to eliminate the amount of sugary food and fizzy drinks in your diet. Sugar is converted to acid by the bacteria in your mouth which then dissolves the minerals in your tooth enamel, causing decay/holes. Acidic foods and drinks can also cause tooth erosion which causes sensitivity, discolouration and cracks over time. Ideally, you should be not only be reducing the amount but the frequency of intake as well (ie. reduce the number of snacks you have).

It is a good idea to rinse your mouth with water or a mouth rinse after every meal. Cleaning your tongue may help to reduce the amount of bacteria causing bad breath. Try not to use your teeth to open bottles or to crack nuts as they might crack, chip or break! Remember to visit your dentist every 6 months for a check and clean to maintain your healthy teeth!

How Cranbourne North Dental Can Help With Your Oral Hygiene 

At Cranbourne North Dental, we are committed to providing expert care for your oral health. Our approach begins with personalised assessments, where we thoroughly examine your symptoms, jaw, teeth, and bite alignment to identify the root cause of your discomfort. 

Using advanced dental technology, we ensure accurate diagnostics to guide the most effective treatment plan. Throughout the process, our compassionate team offers ongoing support and guidance. If you want to know about customising an oral health plan for yourself, contact us to restore your oral health and overall wellbeing with patient-focused, professional care. 

What is Airway Obstruction (in Children)?

Airway Obstruction in children is characterised by mouth breathing, snoring, tooth grinding, bedwetting, allergies or frequent ear or other ear/nose/throat infections. Breathing is primary and when obstruction is present, the body adapts muscle positions to create as much airway space as possible. If muscle positions are not normal, then bones grow abnormally.

**This blog post has been posted with permission from Dr. Derek Mahony.

List of symptoms associated with Airway Obstruction in Children

Facial asymmetries and some TMJ dysfunctions (jaw joint problems) can also be attributed to orofacial muscle imbalances and deviate tongue postures due to airway interferences. The following is list of symptoms associated with airway obstruction in children:

Orofacial Growth

85% of orofacial growth is accomplished by the age of twelve. Therefore, early identification of airway interferences, with diagnosis of the underlying cause, is essential to prevent orofacial growth abnormalities. If you, your dentist, dental hygienist or paediatrician observe any of the above symptoms and suspect possible airway obstruction in your child, evaluation by an ENT (ear, nose and throat) physician should be undertaken.

Did you know that the way your child breathes can affect the development of his or her jaws and facial structure influencing how the teeth fit together? Normal breathing should occur through the nose with the mouth closed. However, if the nasal passage is somehow obstructed, mouth breathing often results. Generally, nasal airway obstruction is caused by one or more of the following: (see figure 1)

  1. Enlarged adenoids
  2. Nasal blockage due to swollen tissue, allergies or polyps
  3. Underdeveloped nasal passages and/or underdeveloped jaw and cheekbones
  4. Deviated nasal septum
  5. Enlarged nasal turbinates

All of the above causes the child to breath with his or her mouth open. This open mouth posture causes the facial muscles to generate unnatural constrictive forces on the underlying bony structures (See Figure 2A). Narrowing and elongation of the upper jaw often is the result of such forces (see Figure 2B). In addition, the jaws tend to grow
apart, often causing front open bites which affect the position of the tongue and other facial structures.

Also, because the lower jaw is dropped for mouth breathing, it tends not only to grow apart from the upper jaw, but also becomes positioned further back than normal, causing an overbite (Figure 2C).

How the tongue rets in the mouth can also negatively affect facial growth. The tongue at rest should be high in the mouth which stimulates normal growth of the maxilla (upper jaw). Enlarged tonsils force the tongue in a downward and forward position which pushes on the lower jaw and the lower teeth (tongue trust). This in turn can contribute to prognathism (protruding of the lower jaw) by overstimulating jaw growth (Figure 3).

Please keep in mind that there are many other factors beside airway considerations that affect dental-facial development (ie. genetics, muscular tone, tooth and jaw sizes, allergies etc). There for addressing just these airway interferences will not always guarantee correction of dento-facial problems. However, if airway interferences are eliminated before facial growth is completed, a suitable environment will be establishes to promote a more normal development of the orofacial structures. This can eliminate or simplify the need for extensive orthodontic treatment. Also in cases where airway interferences have been eliminated, relapse of orthodontic treatment is greatly reduced. The results include not only a more stable dentition and bite, but also a more pleasing facial appearance for your child.

 


References

The following professional references have been provided for you and your medical practitioner if they would like to know more about the effects of airway obstruction upon facial growth.

  1. McNamara, J.A. and Ribbens, K.A. eds., 1979. Naso-respiratory function and craniofacial growth (Vol. 9). Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Michigan.
  2. Linder-Aronson, S., Woodside, D.G. and Lundströ, A., 1986. Mandibular growth direction following adenoidectomy. American journal of orthodontics, 89(4), pp.273-284.
  3. Shapiro, P.A., 1988. Effects of nasal obstruction on facial development. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 81(5), pp.967-971.
  4. Meredith, G.M., 1988. Airway and dentofacial development. American Journal of Rhinology, 2(1), pp.33-41.
  5. Richter, H.J., 1987. Obstruction of the pediatric upper airway. Ear, nose, & throat journal, 66(5), p.209.
  6. Petit, H., 1987. Upper airway problems and pre-orthodontic orthopedics. Ear, nose, & throat journal, 66(6), p.228.
  7. Gray, L.P., 1987. Rapid maxillary expansion and impaired nasal respiration. Ear, nose, & throat journal, 66(6), p.248.
  8. Timms, D.J., 1990. Rapid maxillary expansion in the treatment of nocturnal enuresis. The Angle Orthodontist, 60(3), pp.229-233.
  9. Timms, D.J., 1987. Rapid maxillary expansion in the treatment of nasal obstruction and respiratory disease. Ear, nose, & throat journal, 66(6), p.242.

What’s all the fuss about snoring in Children?

It’s normal for children to snore when they are tired isn’t it? The answer to that is actually – NO! Too often we assume snoring to be the social norm for tired people (big and small) however research has shown that snoring may be more detrimental to our health then we know it. Whilst everyone knows what snoring is, it’s also important to know that heavy, audible breathing also falls under the same category as snoring and is just as bad!

Check out this video on Facebook by Today: https://www.facebook.com/iwakeupwithtoday/videos/1789804254387565/

What does Snoring mean?

Snoring, or heavy breathing whilst sleeping, is that deep annoying sound that one makes when their airway is blocked. Blocked airway? Yes! That’s right – snoring is due to you or your child not being to breathe properly when sleeping. The simple fact is that if you don’t breathe well when sleeping – you or your child may not be getting a proper night’s rest. We all know how important sleep is! It’s imperative for health and development and this is even more important in our children.

Children can suffer from numerous sleep conditions that severely affect their development. The problems caused by the sleep issues can manifest in permanent problems later on in adulthood that are very difficult/ impossible to correct. This is why problems are best diagnosed and treated when young.

Common symptoms of sleep issues in Children:

Snoring Treatment options for Kids:

We recommend booking in your children with us so that we can do a Dental & Airway assessment. From there, we may recommend a few options:

The first port of call is to consult a paediatric ENT specialist (ear, nose and throat specialist) or an Oral Myology clinic. ENT experts will check for obstructions in your child’s airway and ears whilst Oral Myology clinics will check your child’s breathing and muscles. Examination may include a scope (flexible camera through the nose), Imaging (e.g x-rays/CT scans), Physical examinations, and sleep studies.

Depending on what is wrong, treatment options include Surgery (best done when young so they recover well), muscle exercises, breathing exercises or medications such as Nasonex.

Even after treatment, the child usually has to relearn how to breathe properly through the nose. This is why it is better to treat early because a habit is easier to unlearn when you are younger.

Early Interceptive Orthodontics

Correct your Orthodontic problems early

Early Interceptive Orthodontics is basically doing orthodontic work while a child still has a mixture of primary (baby) and permanent teeth. This typically occurs between the ages of 7 to 12 although this can vary depending on the dental development stage of the child.

The advantage of early treatment is that the early diagnosis and treatment of your child may help an orthodontic problem earlier whilst often minimizing more serious orthodontic problems from occurring. By lessening these problems early, later orthodontic treatment may be shorter and easier (or not required in some cases).

It’s important to note that Early Interceptive Orthodontics Treatment may be only one part of your Orthodontic journey. It is very likely that you will need to have further treatment such as braces or clear aligners to straighten your teeth. Each case is different, and your dentist will inform you of your tailored treatment plan.

Types of Early Interceptive Treatments

Partial Braces

Braces worn only on the adult teeth, while your child still has baby teeth. These normally only involve the front 4 incisors and the first adult molar. This may or may not be used in conjunction with springs which help with some expansion. These are typically used to help resolve crowding in younger children.

Typically done with maxillary expanders (more information here). These can either be removable or fixed. Maxillary expanders help to widen the upper jaw by pushing the teeth and bone outwards, and typically involve turning a super screw.

Functional Appliance Therapy include the MARA appliance, Herbst appliance, Twin-Block appliance or Clear Aligners (Angel Aligner A6). Again, these can be removable or fixed. These appliances help to position the lower jaw in a more forward position, thereby encouraging faster growth of the lower jaw into a more favourable position (eliminating an overjet).

We DO NOT offer fixed functional therapy.

Signs you might need Early Orthodontic Treatment

Below is a small list of examples (but not exhaustive) of when you might need Early Interceptive Orthodontics Treatment.

Why Choose Us

  • Experienced Cranbourne Dentists who have a special interest in Orthodontics
  • Digital 3D Scanning technology
  • Fixed & removable plates
  • Certified Clear Aligner provider in Invisalignâ„¢ (Gold Provider), Sparkâ„¢ and Angel Alignerâ„¢
  • Keen focus on airway (breathing), sleep, expansion and jaw relationships
  • Multiple payment plan options available for Orthodontic treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Early Treatment cost?

The cost greatly depends on the length of treatment and number of appliances used. The cost for this can range from $2,000 (including all appointments) for a simple appliance up to roughly $10,000+ for more complex functional treatments which involve the alignment of your teeth.

Whilst we are able to do most Orthodontic treatment here at Cranbourne North Dental, we occasionally may need to refer you to an Orthodontist.

As with all orthodontic work – you must wear your retainer after treatment or you may have orthodontic relapse.

Jaw expansion typically will last from roughly 6 months to up to 2 years, depending on the number of plates or devices used.

Twin Block Functional Appliance

Orthodontic Functional Appliance Treatment

Functional solutions for your jaw positions

Orthodontics is the movement of teeth. Functional appliances help to correct the relationship between the upper and lower jaws and is usually either a removable plate or a glued in appliance.

Orthodontic Functional appliances help by ‘moving’ the jaws back or forwards into the correct jaw position. This movement can be combined with Orthopaedic Expansion.

The classic signs that you might need orthodontic functional therapy include the Class II bite or “weak chin”. This is when your chin is retruded or positioned too far back. The opposite, a Class III bite or “underbite” relates to those who have a very strong lower jaw that protrudes past the top teeth. The timing of functional therapy is crucial and is typically done in young patients aged 10 to 14.

It’s important to note that Functional Therapy may be only one part of your Orthodontic journey. It is very likely that you will need to have further treatment such as braces or clear aligners to straighten your teeth. Each case is different, and your dentist will inform you of your tailored treatment plan.

Types of Functional Therapy

Removable Appliances

Commonly referred to as “plates” – these are dual arch (top and bottom jaws) appliances that force the jaws into their correct position. Examples include the classic Twin Block or the Bionator.

Similar to the above, however instead of plates, these are done with Clear Aligners. An example of a Clear Aligner brand we use for Functional Therapy includes the Angel Aligner A6 Mandibular Advancement Therapy.

These are glued-in versions of the above. The two classic examples of fixed therapy include the MARA appliance or the Herbst Appliance. These are great for patients with poor compliance, and occasionally can be combined with fixed orthodontic appliances (such as braces).

We DO NOT offer fixed functional therapy.

Orthodontic Functional Appliance Procedure

Depending on whether you need a Fixed (glued-in) or removal jaw expander, the process is fairly similar and involves:

  1. The initial appointment to place separators (rubber rings) between your back teeth (for fixed appliances only).
  2. Approximately 1 week later, we will take 3D scans or moulds of your teeth (please note: appointment 1 & 2 may be done together).
  3. Your next appointment will be fitting of the appliance. The appliance is designed specifically to your jaws, and you will be shown how to activate the appliance.
    1. If a fixed appliance is made (eg. Herbst or Forsus appliance) – this is will glued to your back molars. It may be activate once every few weeks to push the jaw forward as required. 
    2. If the appliance is a removable plate – it is as simple as placing the appliance in your mouth and clicking it into place. Please note that this appliance needs to be worn all day and night (and during meals). It should only be removed for cleaning. Failure to wear the appliance during the require times will result in slower treatment.
  4. You will attend regular appointments to monitor the appliance and progress of your jaw relationship.

Why Choose Us

  • Experienced Cranbourne Dentists who have a special interest in Orthodontics
  • Digital 3D Scanning technology
  • Fixed & removable plates
  • Certified Clear Aligner provider in Invisalignâ„¢ (Gold Provider), Sparkâ„¢ and Angel Alignerâ„¢
  • Keen focus on airway (breathing), sleep, expansion and jaw relationships
  • Multiple payment plan options available for Orthodontic treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Functional Therapy work?

Most functional appliances are designed to speed up the growth of the lower jaw. This is done by forcing the lower jaw to be positioned further forward into the proper relationship, allowing the jaw joint to grow and remodel into this new position. Severe cases may need the lower jaw to be position further forward slowly over a period of time. Once the correct relationship has been established, this position is held for a few months to allow the muscles to adapt to this new position (up to 6 months).

The cost greatly depends on the length of treatment and number of appliances used. The cost for this can range from $2,000 (including all appointments) for a simple appliance up to roughly $10,000+ for more complex functional treatments which involve the alignment of your teeth.

Whilst we are able to do most Orthodontic treatment here at Cranbourne North Dental, we occasionally may need to refer you to an Orthodontist.

As with all orthodontic work – you must wear your retainer after treatment or you may have orthodontic relapse.

Jaw expansion typically will last from roughly 6 months to up to 2 years, depending on the number of plates or devices used.

Twin Block Functional Appliance

Sleep apnea is a common but potentially serious sleep disorder that affects many people without them even realising it. It occurs when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to restless nights. Many people might dismiss the signs as simple snoring or fatigue, but untreated sleep apnea can lead to significant issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, and mood disorders. Understanding the early signs can help you identify whether you or a loved one might have sleep apnea, enabling timely intervention and treatment.

If you often feel tired after a full night’s sleep or your partner complains about your loud snoring, it might be time to have a professional check.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Here are key signs that may indicate sleep apnea:

How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Health

Sleep apnea can have serious long-term effects on your health:

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Treating sleep apnea depends on the seriousness of the condition, but there are several effective options available that can significantly improve your quality of life and overall health. Here are some of the most common solutions:

Lifestyle Changes

For mild cases of sleep apnea, lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference:

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy

CPAP is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask connected to a machine that provides continuous airflow, keeping your airway open while you sleep. This reduces snoring and prevents apneas from occurring, ensuring you get a restful night’s sleep.

Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard

A customised oral appliance, called a Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS), often called a sleep apnea mouth guard, can be an effective alternative for those with mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea. This device helps keep your airway open by repositioning the lower jaw and tongue during sleep. Cranbourne North Dental can provide a custom-fitted Mandibular Advancement Splint to alleviate your symptoms.

Surgery

In cases where other treatments aren’t effective, surgery may be recommended to address the physical causes of sleep apnea. Surgical options include removing excess tissue from the throat, repositioning the jaw, or even implanting devices to stimulate airway muscles.

Positional Therapy

For some individuals, sleep apnea may only occur when sleeping on their back. Positional therapy involves training the body to sleep in a different position, typically on the side, to prevent airway blockages.

How Do You Get Tested for Sleep Apnea?

Getting tested for sleep apnea is important for diagnosing the condition and starting the right treatment. Here’s what you can expect during the testing process:

1. Sleep Evaluation by a Dentist

Your first step is to visit a healthcare provider, such as a GP or dentist, who will assess your symptoms and medical history. If sleep apnea is suspected, they may recommend a sleep study or refer you to a sleep specialist for further evaluation.

In need of a sleep evaluation? All Sleep consults are currently performed by Dr Daniella Lim – however, all of our dentists are able to do an initial screening to determine if you are required to see Dr Daniella Lim. Book online now.

2. Sleep Study (Polysomnography)

A sleep study, known as polysomnography, is the most accurate way to diagnose sleep apnea. This test monitors your breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain activity while you sleep.

There are two options for a sleep study:

3. Results and Diagnosis

Once the sleep study is complete, a sleep specialist will review the data to determine whether you have sleep apnea and how severe it is. They will then discuss the best treatment options based on your results.

4. Follow-Up

After diagnosis, it’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss treatment options and begin managing your sleep apnea effectively. This might include lifestyle changes, the use of a CPAP machine, or a custom sleep apnea mouth guard.

Wondering When to Seek Help?

Recognising the symptoms of sleep apnea is essential, but knowing when to seek help is just as important. If you or a loved one experiences any of the following signs, it may be time to consult a professional. Contact Cranbourne North Dental today to book a consultation for your sleep apnea.

A bright, white smile can significantly boost your confidence and leave a lasting impression. Teeth whitening has become increasingly popular as more people seek ways to enhance their appearance and maintain a youthful look. By learning how to whiten teeth and understanding the best methods for achieving a radiant smile, you can make informed decisions about your dental care and avoid the issues of ineffective at-home remedies.

What is Teeth Discolouration?

Teeth discolouration is a common issue that affects many people. It can occur due to various factors such as the consumption of certain foods and drinks (like coffee, tea, and red wine), smoking, aging, and even certain medications. The enamel, or the outer layer of the teeth, can become stained or worn down over time, revealing the yellowish dentin beneath. This can not only affect the aesthetics of your smile but also your confidence and oral health. If you struggle with yellow teeth contact our friendly team today for options.

Looking to brighten your smile? Explore our special offers for professional teeth whitening today.

Professional Teeth Whitening Options

In-Clinic Teeth Whitening Procedures

Professional teeth whitening performed in a dental clinic is one of the most effective ways to achieve a brighter smile. During an in-clinic procedure, a dental professional will apply a high-concentration whitening gel to your teeth. This process may be repeated multiple times to achieve a great result. This process can significantly lighten your teeth in just one visit, often achieving results that are several shades whiter.

Benefits of Professional Whitening

Why Choose Professional Teeth Whitening?

Choosing professional teeth whitening over at-home methods offers several key advantages. While DIY kits and remedies might seem convenient and cost-effective, professional treatments provide superior results in a safer, controlled environment.

Safety and Effectiveness

Professional teeth whitening treatments are conducted under the supervision of a dental expert, ensuring that the procedures are both safe and effective. The high-quality whitening agents used in dental clinics are more potent than those found in over-the-counter products, delivering better results without compromising the health of your teeth and gums. The custom made trays are what makes the biggest difference, ensuring that the bleaching product does not get diluted with saliva and most importantly not damage the gums.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Every individual’s dental needs are unique. Professional teeth whitening allows for a customised approach tailored to your specific situation. Your dentist will evaluate the condition of your teeth and recommend the most suitable whitening method. This personalised care ensures that you achieve the best possible results while addressing any underlying dental issues that may affect the outcome.

Long-Lasting Results

One of the significant benefits of professional teeth whitening is the longevity of the results. The high-quality materials and advanced techniques used in dental clinics help to maintain a bright smile for a longer period. Additionally, dentists provide advice on maintaining your newly whitened teeth, helping you extend the effectiveness of the treatment.

Expert Supervision and Support

Undergoing teeth whitening in a professional setting means you have access to expert advice and support throughout the process. Dentists can monitor the progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal results. They can also address any concerns or questions you might have, providing peace of mind and confidence in the procedure.

Avoiding At-Home Remedies

While it may be tempting to try at-home teeth whitening remedies due to their accessibility and lower cost, these methods often come with significant risks. Here’s why professional treatments are a safer and more effective choice:

How Can You Whiten Teeth Safely?

When it comes to teeth whitening, safety should always be a top priority. Consulting a dentist before starting any whitening treatment ensures that you choose a method that is both effective and safe for your specific dental condition.

Interested In Teeth Whitening at Cranbourne North Dental?

If you are searching for cosmetic dentistry services in Cranbourne such as teeth whitening, visit us at Cranbourne North Dental. Contact our team today to schedule an appointment.

Recently, we hosted a team training day with Cynergex for First Aid, focusing on handling medical emergencies in our dental practice. Led by experts, the sessions equipped our team with vital skills and confidence to respond effectively to various scenarios, from allergic reactions to cardiac incidents. Through interactive workshops and simulations, we honed our ability to recognize and manage emergencies, fostering teamwork and clear communication among staff. Committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and care, this collaboration underscores our dedication to excellence in dental practice.

Why First Aid Training is Essential

Emergencies can happen at any time, and often when least expected. Having a team trained in first aid ensures that immediate and effective care can be provided while waiting for professional medical help to arrive. This not only saves lives but also reduces the severity of injuries, speeds up recovery, and fosters a safer environment.

Building a Safer Workplace

First aid training isn’t just a legal requirement for many industries—it’s an investment in the well-being of our team. By equipping our staff with essential life-saving skills, we demonstrate a commitment to their safety and build a culture of care and preparedness for our practice.

Keen to know more about how Cynergex have helped us? Read up about them here: https://cynergexgroup.com.au/about/

Cranbourne North Dental – Committed to Your Safety and Wellness

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