We are now operating at our new location: 173 William Thwaites Blvd, Cranbourne North VIC
Have you noticed white spots on your teeth? Your Keysborough dentist may refer to these as white spot lesions (WSL) or tooth demineralisation. These are early signs of enamel damage (early decay or early caries), which appear as white patches along the “neck” of the tooth, at the gumline. White Spot Lesions usually result from prolonged plaque accumulation and poor oral hygiene.
The main cause of white spot lesions is inadequate plaque removal, which leads to acid-producing bacteria eroding the enamel. A diet high in sugar and processed foods can also increase the risk, as it fuels plaque build-up and accelerates enamel breakdown.
Symptoms of early tooth enamel demineralisation can vary, but may include:
The treatment for early white spot lesions depends on how advanced the enamel damage is. Early-stage lesions can sometimes be reversed or halted without invasive procedures.
Effective treatment options include:
Preventing early tooth demineralisation and white spot lesions are achievable with consistent care and healthy habits:
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Unfortunately, white spot lesions typically do not resolve on their own. If the appearance bothers you, cosmetic treatments such as tooth fillings, enamel microabrasion, or veneers may be recommended.
No, teeth whitening does not remove white spots. In fact, whitening treatments may make them appear more prominent because the whitening process can dehydrate teeth further and make it appear whiter. This then contrasts more with the healthy surrounding enamel.
Braces can make it harder to maintain proper oral hygiene. When plaque builds up around the brackets, it can lead to enamel demineralisation. This is why thorough brushing and flossing are crucial during orthodontic treatment.
White spot lesions are a precursor to tooth decay. If left untreated, they can progress deeper into the tooth and form a cavity, which then requires a tooth filling or other dental restoration.
Hypomineralised teeth occur when the enamel does not develop properly, leading to weaker, more porous areas. These teeth may appear chalky white, yellow, or even brown and are more prone to wear and breakdown than normal enamel. Read on to learn more about how we can help treat your Chalky teeth in Cranbourne.
While there is no single known cause, several factors have been associated with hypomineralisation of teeth, including:
Dentists check for hypomineralisation during routine dental exams. If identified, keeping the affected teeth clean and well-maintained is essential to prevent further weakening. If you notice unusual discoloration or rapid breakdown of a tooth, seek dental advice promptly.
Although there is no way to reverse hypomineralisation, several treatments can help strengthen and protect affected teeth:
Since hypomineralised teeth are more susceptible to cavities and wear, it’s important to follow a strong oral hygiene routine:
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It depends on the tooth’s condition and your child’s age. If the tooth remains intact, sealing it may prevent further damage. If it starts breaking down, a stainless steel crown might be needed for protection. In cases of severe decay or infection, treatment may involve pulp therapy or removal.
In severe cases, if a permanent tooth is unlikely to last, early removal might be considered to allow other teeth to align properly. However, this is only an option if diagnosed early and carefully planned with your dentist.
Not all cases of weak or broken teeth are due to hypomineralisation. Other factors, such as cavities, large fillings, trauma, or bite issues, can also contribute. A dentist can assess your teeth and determine the best treatment.
Stainless Steel Crowns 👑
Here’s what You Need to Know!
Stainless steel crowns (SSCs) are preformed metal caps used to restore and protect damaged or decayed teeth, primarily in children. They are a durable and cost-effective solution for long-term dental health.
If your child has a large cavity or a weak tooth, their dentist may recommend a stainless steel crown to protect their smile! 😁
✨ Why Are Stainless Steel Crowns Used?
✅ Protect weak or damaged teeth
✅ Restore large cavities when fillings aren’t enough
✅ Prevent further decay or fracture
✅ Maintain tooth structure until the baby tooth falls out naturally
✨ What are the Benefits?
✅ Strong & Durable – Can withstand chewing forces
✅ Cost-Effective – More affordable than custom crowns
✅ Long-Lasting – Can last until the baby tooth is naturally lost
✅ Quick Procedure – Requires only one dental visit
✨ Most Commonly asked Questions
👑 Will it look different?
Yes, SSCs have a silver color, but they are placed on back teeth where they are less visible.
👑 Are they safe?
Absolutely! Stainless steel is biocompatible and commonly used in dentistry.
👑 Do they require special care?
Not really! Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are all that’s needed.
Space maintainers are custom-made dental appliances used to hold open the space left by a prematurely lost tooth—most commonly in children. Here in Cranbourne, we can help your teeth space with a space maintainer.
Whether fixed or removable, space maintainers ensure there is enough room for the adult tooth to erupt properly, preventing future orthodontic issues. In some cases, adults may also benefit from space maintainers to preserve the gap until a dental implant, bridge, or denture is placed.
Read on to learn more about how we can help you with a space maintainer in Cranbourne.
When a baby tooth falls out early, the adult tooth underneath may not be ready to erupt. Without a space maintainer, surrounding teeth can shift into the empty space, leading to crowding or misalignment. This can result in the adult tooth erupting in the wrong position or becoming impacted. In the lower or upper jaw, these changes can also affect the bite and the alignment of opposing teeth.
For adults, if a permanent tooth is lost and isn’t replaced promptly, a space maintainer may be used to preserve the space and prevent neighbouring teeth from drifting.
Several factors influence whether your child may need a space maintainer:
There are numerous varieties of Space Maintainers, the main 2 types are, fixed Space Maintainers and removable Space Maintainers. The fixed Space Maintainers are the most common as they are the most effective and compliance is high because the child cannot remove it. The efficacy of removable Space Maintainers often suffer because children often remove them.
The best way to avoid needing a space maintainer is through preventive dental care. Regular dental check-ups, fluoride treatments, proper brushing and flossing, and a tooth-friendly diet help protect baby teeth from decay. In the case of sports injuries, a custom mouthguard can help protect your child’s teeth from trauma.
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Not all Space Maintainers are suitable for all cases. Sometimes costs include the removal of the Space Maintainers and sometimes they do not. The lowest cost fixed Space Maintainer will be a Band and Loop (starts from around $350 including removal of the Space Maintainer when it is time) or a removable Space Maintainer (starts from $260). Most of the fixed options require external lab work and are custom made after a scan or a mould is taken of your child’s teeth. Space Maintainers can be expensive and can need to be redone if in place for a while because your child’s teeth are always shifting.
Once a Space Maintainer is placed, your Dental Professional will check it at every regular check up appointment. We try to keep it here for as long as possible but if it starts becoming uncomfortable due to eh movement of the erupting adult tooth OR we start seeing the adult tooth erupt, that will be time to remove it.How to remove a Space Maintainer?
Fixed Space Maintainers are removed by the Dental Professional. The bands/wire that are responsible for holding it in are usually drilled off. This is a simple process that doesn’t require any anesthetic and is usually well tolerated.
The initial fitting, it may be uncomfortable because it can feel tight around the tooth that it is bonded on. As with anything foreign in your mouth, it takes time to adjust to it. Children typically adjust within a few days.
It is very important to clean Space Maintainers well to avoid gingivitis or developing decay. It is important to avoid very sticky foods, especially if sweet. Very sticky foods can dislodge Space Maintainer. You can brush around the space maintainer and ensure it is cleaned with floss or interdental brushes daily.
Dental implants have become a revolutionary and highly effective solution for replacing missing teeth. While the majority of dental implants are typically made from a durable Titanium alloy, our Zirconia implants in Cranbourne offer an excellent alternative for patients who prefer a non-metallic (metal free) option. These implants are crafted from a ceramic material known as Zirconium Dioxide, which is known for its strength and biocompatibility. Zirconia has been a staple material in various dental applications for years, including tooth crowns and implant crowns, owing to its impressive durability and natural aesthetic.
There are several compelling reasons why you might consider opting for Zirconia implants over traditional Titanium-based implants. One of the primary motivations for choosing Zirconia implants is if you have an allergy or sensitivity to metals, particularly those found in Titanium. If this is the case, an allergy test can confirm the sensitivity, and if necessary, Zirconia implants can provide a suitable alternative that is free from metal components.
Another reason why some individuals choose our Zirconia implants in Cranbourne is simply a personal preference for avoiding metals in their mouths altogether. This could be due to environmental concerns, holistic beliefs, or a desire to maintain a completely metal-free dental restoration. In certain cases, Zirconia implants are also preferred by people with very thin gum tissue, especially when the implant is placed in the front of the mouth. Zirconia implants may offer a more natural, tooth-like appearance because of their white color, which may provide a superior aesthetic outcome in some cases.
Zirconia implants have a distinct white ceramic appearance, which makes them blend seamlessly with natural teeth. The implant itself is designed to resemble a large screw and is carefully anchored to your jawbone. Because of the material’s ceramic nature, it lacks the metallic sheen typical of Titanium implants, providing a more aesthetic and natural look.
Titanium implants remain the most widely used material for dental implants worldwide, and they have been thoroughly researched and studied over decades. This extensive body of research provides clear evidence of the success rates and longevity of Titanium implants, making them the go-to choice for most dental professionals. Titanium implants are known for their superior mechanical properties, including a higher flexural strength and enhanced thermal conductivity, making them extremely durable and reliable.
On the other hand, Zirconia implants, although newer on the market, have gained significant popularity for their aesthetic benefits, especially among patients who want to avoid metal implants. However, Zirconia implants are not as extensively researched as Titanium, meaning that the long-term data on their performance is not as robust. Despite this, many patients choose Zirconia implants for their aesthetics and biocompatibility.
If you are torn between the two options, it’s essential to consult with a dental professional who can evaluate your specific needs. Your dentist will take into account factors such as your jawbone quality, oral health, aesthetic goals, and any personal preferences regarding materials to help determine which implant is best for you.
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Yes, Zirconia implants are completely safe for use in dental applications. All Zirconia implants available in Australia are approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), ensuring their safety and effectiveness. Zirconia is a highly biocompatible material, meaning it is well accepted by the body, and has been successfully used in other dental treatments like tooth crowns for many years.
Yes, Zirconia implants tend to be more expensive than Titanium implants. The primary reason for this price difference is the material itself—Zirconia is more costly to manufacture, and there are fewer suppliers of Zirconia implants. Additionally, since Titanium implants are more commonly used, their widespread availability helps to lower the cost. However, many patients are willing to pay a premium for the aesthetic and metal-free benefits that Zirconia implants offer.
The longevity of Zirconia implants depends on a variety of factors, including your oral hygiene habits, bite force, overall oral health, and the quality and quantity of the bone where the implant is placed. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, Zirconia implants can last many years, similar to Titanium implants. However, the crown that is placed on top of the implant may require replacement over time due to normal wear and tear. It’s important to have your implant carefully planned and placed to ensure its long-term success, and a qualified dental professional can help determine if Zirconia implants are suitable for your specific dental needs.
With careful planning and expert guidance, Zirconia implants can be a great choice for patients looking for a natural-looking, biocompatible, and metal-free solution to replace missing teeth. Always consult with your dental professional to determine the best course of action for your oral health.
Stainless steel crowns offer a durable and reliable solution for restoring baby teeth affected by decay or fractures. These crowns fully cover the visible portion of the tooth, providing strong, long-lasting protection until the tooth naturally falls out at the right time. Learn more about Stainless Steel Crowns in Cranbourne by reading our blog post below!
Baby teeth have enamel that differs from adult teeth, making fillings less durable due to weaker bonding strength. As a result, fillings in baby teeth can often wear down or fall out. By fully covering and protecting the tooth, stainless steel crowns provide a secure and long-lasting solution.
A thorough and gentle examination in a relaxed and child-friendly setting helps determine if a stainless steel crown is necessary. Our goal is to make every visit enjoyable, and our ceiling-mounted TVs help keep kids entertained during their check-ups!
If cavities are detected, we assess the extent of decay through both visual examination and X-rays. Additional considerations include your child’s age, the expected timeline for the baby tooth to fall out, and the positioning of incoming adult teeth.
For minor cavities, a simple filling may be sufficient. However, if the decay is extensive, a stainless steel crown may be recommended for optimal protection and longevity.
The procedure varies depending on the preparation of the tooth.
Step 1: Placement of Separators
Your child visits our clinic 1–2 days before the crown placement to have small rubber bands (separators) placed between the affected teeth.
These separators create space for the crown and should remain in place for at least 1–2 days. Avoid sticky foods, and discourage your child from touching them.
Step 2: Crown Placement Appointment
We remove the separators and we fit a stainless steel crown onto the tooth.
We clean the tooth and a bonding material is used to secure the crown in place.
The dentist will carefully remove any excess material.
Step 3: Post-Placement Adjustment
Initially, the crown may feel slightly high when biting, but the bite naturally adjusts within a few weeks.
This technique typically does not require anesthesia.
The dentist may need to prepare the tooth or perform pulp therapy in certain cases.
Step 1: Numbing the Tooth
A numbing gel and local anesthetic ensure your child’s comfort.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation & Crown Placement
The dentist will prepare the tooth and if necessary, pulp (nerve) therapy.
A preformed stainless steel crown is adjusted and fitted using the same secure method as the Hall Crown.
Both approaches restore your child’s tooth effectively while minimising discomfort.
Proper care ensures the crown lasts until the baby tooth naturally falls out. Follow these simple steps:
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Provide a balanced diet and limit sugary and processed foods to occasional treats.
Daily Brushing: Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, whether manual or electric.
Flossing: Clean around the crown, especially at the front and back, to prevent plaque buildup.
Avoid Sticky Foods: Extremely sticky candies and snacks can loosen the crown.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine visits help monitor the crown and overall oral health.
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Yes! Stainless steel crowns are made from medical-grade metal alloys, including iron, chromium, and nickel. They are TGA-approved and meet strict safety standards, making them completely safe for your child.
No, the stainless steel crowns we use contain 0% mercury. They are a completely safe and reliable option for your child’s dental care.
Many parents assume crowns for baby teeth are expensive, but stainless steel crowns are much more affordable than custom-made adult crowns. The cost depends on the type of crown needed—Hall Crowns are usually the most cost-effective option. Prices start from $200+. Contact us for an accurate quote!
No special removal process is needed. When the baby tooth is ready to fall out, the adult tooth naturally pushes it out, including the crown.
A water flosser is an electric oral care device that uses pressurised bursts of water to remove plaque and debris from between teeth and along the gumline. Water flossers can be highly effective, especially for people with specific dental needs.
They are ideal for those with larger gaps between teeth (common in gum disease), dental implants, complex bridgework, or orthodontic appliances like braces. Water flossers are also beneficial for individuals with limited manual dexterity who find traditional flossing or interdental brushes challenging.
Unfortunately Water Flossers do not allow you to dispense with floss or Interdental brushes entirely. Water flossers are effective at removing larger debris and plaque from between wide gaps in teeth. However, they may not be as effective at cleaning smaller, tighter spaces compared to traditional flossing or using interdental brushes. For the most thorough cleaning, especially in tight spaces, conventional flossing and interdental brushes remain superior to water flossers.
Using a waterflosser is simple and effective for cleaning between your teeth and along the gumline. Start by filling the water reservoir and choosing the appropriate tip size based on your dental needs. For best results, use the water flosser over a sink or in the shower to avoid water splashing. Lean over the sink and aim the water flosser tip at your gum line, spraying water between your teeth and along the edges of your gums. Begin with a lower force setting and gradually increase it to a comfortable level.
When choosing the best waterflosser, there are two main types to consider: cordless and corded models. If you prefer to clean your teeth in the shower, a cordless waterflosser is the best option, especially if it’s designed for safe use in wet environments.
In addition to the basic features, waterflossers come with several options that may be important to you, such as rotating nozzles, various tip shapes and sizes, and adjustable pressure settings.
Popular and highly-rated water flosser brands include Waterpik and Philips. There are numerous different brands in the market now, including from Piksters, who manufacture interdental brushes as well.
For most patients, traditional flossing or the use of interdental brushes is still the preferred method for effective plaque removal. However, if you’re less likely to use these tools consistently, a water flosser can be a beneficial alternative to doing nothing at all. In certain situations, such as for patients with dental implants, braces, or gum disease, your dental professional may recommend using a water flosser as part of your oral care routine.
Traditional flossing and the use of interdental brushes remain highly effective and affordable alternatives to using a water flosser. These tools are great for removing plaque and debris between teeth, ensuring thorough oral hygiene.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to effective teeth cleaning. That’s why it’s essential to consult with our dental professionals to discuss your unique oral health needs and concerns. We can help you explore the best options for maintaining a healthy smile and guide you on the most effective techniques for cleaning your teeth and gums at home.
A Waterflosser can be a great addition to your oral care routine, depending on your dental needs. If you have large gaps between your teeth, dental implants, or braces, it can help remove debris from hard-to-reach areas. However, it should complement traditional flossing or interdental brushes rather than replace them.
Yes! Water Flossing is especially beneficial for those with braces, as it helps flush out food particles and plaque that can get trapped around brackets and wires. However, it should be used alongside other cleaning tools like super floss or interdental brushes for the best results.
While Water Flossing is better than no interdental cleaning, it is not as effective as traditional flossing or interdental brushes. Mechanical plaque removal is still the gold standard. However, for individuals with limited dexterity, a Water Flosser can be a helpful alternative.
If your gums bleed frequently while using a Waterflosser, it may be a sign of underlying gum issues like gingivitis or periodontitis. If this occurs, it’s important to seek professional advice from your dental team.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Monday:
9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tuesday:
8:30 am - 6:00 pm
Wednesday:
8:30 am - 6:00 pm
Thursday:
8:30 am - 6:00 pm
Friday:
8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday:
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Sunday:
Closed
Established in 2016, Cranbourne North Dental was conceived with the mission to deliver comprehensive and compassionate care to the local Cranbourne community.
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