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Dental Implants: A Guide for Seniors

If you are a senior considering dental implants, you may have to worry about issues other dental patients don't have to think about. For example, you may need more time to recover after receiving your implants. My name is Jodi, and I've been working with seniors for years. I decided to create this blog to help the seniors I can't meet in person. In this space, I'm going to post entries on everything related to dental implants and seniors. From tips on flossing implants after arthritis has claimed some of your dexterity, to guiding you through the implants-vs-dentures debate, this blog is designed for you. Thanks for reading. I hope you find what you need!

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Dental Implants: A Guide for Seniors

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Regular Dental Visits: A Critical Aspect of Your Health Routine
When we're busy juggling our day-to-day responsibilities, it's easy to push aside those regular dental check-ups. However, maintaining a healthy smile isn't the only reason to keep up with your dentist visits. Let's explore why these appointments should be high on your priority list. Prevention Is Better Than Cure Regular dental check-ups play a vital role in preventing oral diseases. Your dentist can detect issues like cavities, gum disease or oral cancer in their early stages when they're easier to treat.

Navigating Dental Emergencies: A Guide to Dealing with Chipped or Broken Teeth
A chipped or broken tooth can be both alarming and painful. Whether due to an injury, a blow to the face or biting into something hard, it is crucial to address a chipped or broken tooth as soon as possible to prevent further damage, infection or even tooth loss. In this blog post, we'll explore how chipped or broken teeth are treated and fixed and when it's time to call a dentist.

A Comprehensive Guide to Cosmetic Dentistry
A beautiful and confident smile plays an important role in your life. Cosmetic dentistry offers the opportunity to refine the aesthetics of your teeth, helping you achieve the smile you've always longed for. With its transformative capabilities, this specialized branch of dentistry can turn your dental aspirations into reality. Cosmetic dentistry involves a couple of different procedures, like porcelain veneers, some teeth whitening and dental implants, to accentuate the radiance of your smile.

How Can the Dentist Help Your Child Feel at Ease?
Taking your child to the dentist can be a daunting task for any parent. The experience can be especially nerve-racking for children, who may not fully understand what is going on and why they are there. Fortunately, there are several ways that dentists can help children feel more comfortable and at ease during dental appointments. So, what methods and techniques do they use to achieve this? Establishing Trust One of the most important things a dentist can do to put a child at ease is to establish trust.

What Should You Do If You Have Cracked Your Tooth?
Cracking a tooth can be a painful and distressing experience. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, then it is essential to take the appropriate steps to ensure the best possible outcome for your dental health. Find out what you need to do by following the five steps below. 1. Assess the Situation and Stay Calm The first thing to do when you realise you have cracked your tooth is to remain calm.

Does Your Wisdom Tooth Problem Call for a Visit to an Emergency Dentist?
Has one more of your wisdom teeth been taking a long time to come through? If so, this may lead to some dull or often nagging pain that may have a tendency to come and go. Yet, in recent times, that pain may have become somewhat more acute and may not go away at all. In fact, you may notice some swelling or may find it difficult to swallow food or drink.

Here's Why Your Dentist Wants You to Wear a Mouthguard While You Sleep
It's probably going to sound strange when your dentist tells you that you should start wearing a mouthguard. Sports mouthguards are one thing (and if you asked your dentist, they'd probably suggest wearing one for any contact sport), but your dentist is more likely to recommend a night guard. This is a specific type of mouthguard to be worn while you sleep. But why do you need one? Checkups Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to spot minor problems before they have a chance to develop into major ones.

Debunking Myths About Denture Implants
When a missing tooth leaves you feeling as though there's a void in your smile, you might want to consider denture implants. However, when you start looking into the topic, you may stumble across some myths that deter you from visiting your dentist. Here are a few to remain mindful of, and the truths that debunk them. The Surgery Is Painful Yes, denture implants require a form of oral surgery. But as with any other field, dental surgery isn't always painful.

How to Get Toothpaste Build-up out of Toothbrush Bristles
It never fails. You get a new, clean toothbrush out of the pack, determined to keep it clean, and by the time you're done brushing your teeth, there's a layer of toothpaste wedged against the brush's base, amongst all the bristles. It often seems resistant to just about everything you do to remove it until it dries out so much that the layer breaks apart, but waiting that long does not seem like the most hygienic way to approach it.

Choosing a Dentist for Your Child
It's common for first-time parents to have many questions about their child's dental health. In fact, many usually want to know the best dental clinic for their children. The first thing worth noting is that growing children may require regular monitoring, tooth removal and teeth alignment dental services. With that in mind, you can easily select a dentist based on the services they offer. Here are three types of dentists you may want to consider for your child.

Dealing With Dental Issues? How Onlays Can Restore Your Teeth
If you're dealing with dental issues, it might be time to consult with a cosmetic dentist. Cosmetic dentists can take care of dental issues that affect appearances, especially where the teeth are concerned. Dental crowns can be used to repair tooth damage, but they're not necessarily the best option. Dental onlays might actually be the best option for you. Dental onlays are attached to the outside of your tooth, providing a strong biting surface, and restoring the natural appearance.

Top Benefits Of In-Office Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening has become one of Australia's most sought after dental cosmetic procedures. It can be attributed to the increased demand for pearly white teeth and a bright smile. In the past, people used to whiten their teeth at a dental clinic. However, at-home teeth whitening treatments are quite popular today, thanks to improved technology. As much as the convenience offered by at-home teeth whitening could be tempting, you should consider sticking to in-office procedures.

Key Benefits of One-Visit Dental Crowns
When a dentist recommends crowns to correct a dental condition, they also give you options. The reason is that there are various types of dental crowns and installation methods. One-visit dental crowns are an excellent option that most dentists recommend to patients. As their name suggests, one-visit dental crowns are made as you wait in a dental clinic. This article highlights the reason for the rising popularity of one-visit dental crowns.

Forever Young (Teeth): Does It Matter If Adult Teeth Never Develop?
As everyone knows, humans only get two sets of teeth. Some animals, such as elephants and kangaroos, continually regrow teeth as needed (making these creatures polyphyodont). Humans are diphyodont—meaning that the first set of teeth (called baby, primary, or deciduous teeth) is progressively replaced by a second set of teeth (called adult, secondary, or permanent teeth). But what if your own status as a true diphyodont is in question? For some people, that first set of teeth is all that will ever grow.

Acrylic Dental Restorations: Are They Worth It?
When you need a dental restoration such as a crown, or an inlay/onlay (which is essentially a partial dental crown), it's because the surface of your tooth has deteriorated to the point that it needs to be manually restored. The restoration becomes the new surface of the tooth (either partially or totally), acting as a type of artificial dental enamel. Your dentist will tell you what type of restoration you need and why you need it.

Metal Braces Vs. Ceramic Braces
Braces may be required to straighten teeth, close gaps or correct a misalignment, and when you find out you need braces you may be keen to opt for clear aligners. Aligners are a popular choice because they are so discreet and can easily be removed for cleaning. However, aligners aren't always suitable, particularly when the aim is to correct your bite. For complex problems, you will likely have to opt for a more traditional type of dental braces, such as metal or ceramic.

5 Ways to Get Rid of Bad Breath
Bad breath can be seriously embarrassing. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to get rid of it. Use these tips to free yourself from the shame of bad breath forever. 1. Reevaluate Your Oral Hygiene Routine Bad breath often results from bacteria in the mouth producing waste gases that smell bad. The best way to get rid of these bacteria is to brush and floss your teeth more often and more thoroughly.

Common Denture Emergencies and Their Treatment
Losing teeth can make you feel self-conscious in social circles. Besides, it can make people forgo their favourite dishes. Dentures can quickly restore your confidence and chewing ability. However, dentures are only as effective as their condition, meaning that proper care is crucial. That said, some mishaps can render your devices useless and require emergency denture procedures. Here are common denture emergencies to keep in mind.  Infection Around Denture Implants -- Dentures that rest on the gums rarely expose a patient to infections.

Why You Should See Your Dentist After Any Jaw Injury
If you've had an accident that caused a sharp blow to your mouth, it's always wise to see your dentist. Still, you might not see the point of this if you can't see any damage. Sure, your teeth may have been on the receiving end of a strong jolt, but if they don't appear to be damaged, what's the harm? Just because you can't see a fracture, it doesn't mean that your teeth escaped unscathed.

4 Things to Keep In Mind Before Using Teeth Whitening Strips
It's no secret that people are always looking for a way to improve their appearance, and white teeth might be the quickest, simplest way. And if you've found yourself wondering if you should use teeth-whitening strips, then you're probably interested in this topic. But before you try whitening strips on your own, there are a few things you should know. 1. How whitening strips work Teeth-whitening strips are a thin, plastic-like film you wear over your teeth for a specified period of time.

What Does Getting Dental Implants Mean?
When you first visit your prosthodontist (the dental specialist who treats missing teeth), they will examine your mouth, request X-rays and then inform you whether you are a good candidate for dental implants. If you are not, don't worry, the prosthodontist will recommend alternative treatments like dentures and dental bridges. If you are a good candidate (your jaws are in good health), the dentist explains the procedure and answers any questions.

Two Misconceptions About Dental Veneers
Here are two misconceptions about dental veneers that dentists often hear from their patients. Myth: You can always tell if a person has veneers Sometimes, a patient will worry that their veneers will not look realistic or will appear unnatural. The truth is that there are several factors that affect how real or artificial veneers look. Your dentist can match your veneers to your teeth, so they will not appear to be too white or oddly-shaped.

3 Important Facts to Understand Before Installing Dentures
No one enjoys the experience of losing teeth. Missing teeth reduces one's confidence and makes one feel uncomfortable when smiling. If you are dealing with a similar dental situation, it is advisable to consider installing dentures. Dentures are false teeth and gums that replace missing natural teeth and surrounding mouth tissues. You can get either partial or complete dentures, depending on the number of missing teeth. The decision of installing dentures is not a simple one.

3 Main Reasons Dentists Recommend Regular Teeth Cleaning
A child gets their first teeth, also known as the milk teeth, when they are about six months old. However, these teeth fall off with time, and by the time they are twelve, permanent teeth start emerging. Wisdom teeth are usually the last to appear, and for most people, it happens much later. The permanent teeth should serve you for the rest of your life. Sadly, a lot of people don't follow the right dental care to preserve the health of their teeth for a lifetime.

Should you book an appointment with a periodontist?
As part of taking care of your teeth, you should be seeing your local dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and dental cleaning to make sure that your teeth stay in great shape, but your dentist is not the only person who can help you to take care of your teeth. If your dentist spots signs of periodontal disease or gingivitis, they may want to refer you to a periodontist so that they can treat the infection and prevent your condition from deteriorating further.

What to Expect From Your General Dentist
As your primary dental caregivers, general dentists are your best bet for avoiding serious dental complications that may result in the loss of your teeth. That's why you should always see your local dentist for regular checkups even if you have no pressing dental concerns.  Dentists offer an array of general dentistry services to ensure their patients achieve and maintain good oral health. Check out some of the key services that they can provide below.

5 Common Crooked Teeth Problems You Can Avoid By Seeking Orthodontic Treatment
With or without a referral from your dentist, an orthodontist is the dental specialist to visit if you wish to straighten your crooked teeth. Sooner is always better for orthodontics treatment if you want to stay ahead of some of the common issues associated with crooked teeth. Crooked teeth can take away from your appearance and cause your self-esteem to take a hit. However, it's more than just a cosmetic problem.

3 Signs You Have Pericoronitis
If you have a wisdom tooth coming through, then your dentist may keep a watching brief on the tooth to see how it does. They don't want to remove the tooth at the moment, but they think that this might be necessary down the line. For the time being, they tell you to clean the tooth carefully and to look out for unusual problems. They warn you to watch for symptoms that might mean that you have an infection known as pericoronitis.

Two ways to ensure that your agoraphobia does not cause your oral health to decline
If, as a result of having agoraphobia, you find it difficult to leave your home and have not been to the dentist for many years, here are some of the steps you might want to take to stop this psychological condition from harming your oral health. Find a dentist who runs a mobile clinic You should try to find a dentist in your area who runs a mobile clinic. The reason for this is that most mobile dental clinics can usually only provide simple dental treatments (like a scale-and-polish or a check-up), but using this service could enable you to avoid developing the types of major dental health conditions that would necessitate a trip to a standard dental clinic (a trip that would probably induce severe anxiety, due to your agoraphobia).

How to recover from dental implant surgery
Dental implants are a method of attaching artificial teeth to the bone structure of the jaw. They look authentic and are very durable, but the success of the procedure will depend on some sensible aftercare. Relieve any pain After the anaesthetic wears off, you may feel some short-term discomfort and soreness in the mouth. You can use over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to relieve any pain. If you are in any doubt, just ask your dentist what would be best for you to take.

5 Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants and dentures are both highly effective solutions to tooth loss. However, dental implants have several advantages over dentures that could make them more suitable for many people. Here are five reasons to ask your dentist whether implants could be the right solution for you. 1. A Permanent Solution After the initial fitting and recovery process, dental implants need almost no maintenance. All you need to do is brush them every day, as though they were natural teeth, and see your dentist for regular checkups.

Use It or Lose It: The Benefits of Replacing Missing Teeth With Dental Implants
If you have just lost a tooth, you might be wondering whether you should replace it or not. However, your focus should be on function and health, not aesthetics. Of course, replacing a missing tooth in your smile zone, usually the top six teeth, is also an urgent matter. Where your back teeth, your molars, are concerned, their absence is felt—not seen. The short-term risks of not replacing a tooth, such as infection at the site, shouldn't be a problem as long as you care for the wound as it heals.

Can You Use Permanent Glue to Repair Your Dentures?
It's human nature to treat something new and relatively expensive with great care when you first take ownership, and this particular product will have the focus of your attention until such time as something else comes along to occupy your mind. You may do everything you can to safeguard this new acquisition and to look after it in accordance with given instruction, but you may still become blasé at some stage in the future when your attention moves elsewhere.

Your Guide to False Teeth
If your dentist suggests that you will need false teeth after removing some of your existing ones, then it can be a worrying time. However, you should bear in mind that many people transition to using dentures without much of a problem. Read on to discover the main types of false teeth and how you can look after them. Complete Dentures A complete denture is required when all of the teeth on either your upper or lower mandible are taken out for some reason, usually because they cannot be saved by your dentist.

Why Have Plastic Braces?
Braces can be used to straighten your teeth. There are two types of braces that are available: metal and plastic. They can be used to treat various issues with teeth alignment, including overbite, underbite, crowded teeth and gaps between teeth. Plastic braces are a relatively new creation that are an excellent alternative to metal braces. How it works Firstly, your teeth will need to be examined. Your dentist will capture an image of your teeth and use computer software to create a three-dimensional image of your teeth.

Root Canal 101: Understanding the Ins and Outs of This Vital Treatment
Root canal therapy is one of the most misunderstood treatments your dentist has on offer, and hearing it's your time to have a root canal may leave you feeling frightened and confused. But root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is an essential dental therapy that can be carried out with a minimum of discomfort. If you've been dreading the day your root canal is due, read on to understand the ins and outs of this important treatment.

3 Adult-Friendly Alternatives to Traditional Braces
Many adults wish that they had straighter, more attractive-looking teeth, but may not like the idea of braces, which can be unsightly and give a childish appearance. However, there are now many options available to adults now, including retainers, lingual braces, and Invisalign braces. This short article aims to describe three of the most popular options in more detail. Lingual Braces Lingual braces, in contrast to more traditional braces, are placed behind the teeth where they cannot be seen.

3 Actions To Properly Manage A Broken Tooth Until Your Emergency Dentist Visit
From sporting activities to a general fall, anything can result in a broken tooth if you happen to take a hit to the area around your mouth. You'll need to get a broken tooth taken care of by an emergency dentist immediately if you want to save it. Here are some actions to help you properly manage a broken tooth until your emergency dentist visit: Save Your Tooth By Placing It In A Milk Or Saline Solution And Plastic Wrap  

What is a Dental Sealant and Do You Need One?
Dental sealants are a specialised kind of teeth protection. Sealants are made from an ultra-thin plastic material that can be painted directly onto the teeth. Whilst on the teeth, it prevents bacteria from entering the tooth crevices that would otherwise be vulnerable. This, in turn, helps prevent tooth decay. If you're wondering whether a dental sealant might be a good idea for you, read below to find out.  The Right Age For Dental Sealants

Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?
While there are many dental procedures aimed at addressing teeth alignment issues, few are as effective, comfortable and discreet as Invisalign. Invisalign is just as its name suggests; it is a set of invisible aligners that are custom made for your teeth and mouth. They are designed for maximum comfort and efficiency, slowly adjusting the positioning of your teeth to restore your overall smile. Many people wonder if Invisalign is truly for them, and if it will correct their current dental condition.

The Pros and Cons of Clear Teeth Straightening Devices
If you're interested in a straighter smile, you might have wondered about Invisalign, Clear Correct, or one of the other clear teeth straightening devices. Whilst these devices can be a highly effective way to straighten the teeth, it's not all pros. There are also some cons that bear consideration before you make the decision to get one of these teeth straighteners. Here's what you need to consider — both the benefits and the drawbacks.

Why Root Canals Shouldn't Give You Any Particular Cause for Concern
When dental pain becomes too much to bear, there's nothing for it but a visit to an emergency dentist. While there are many different potential causes for this pain, it's invariably due to inflammation which causes your nerves to become activated. You may be wondering whether you need a root canal, as this is a frequent course of treatment in such situations. What is involved in this type of procedure today?

Overcoming your fear of the dentist
If an impending visit to the dentist sends shivers of horror through your blood, you're not alone. Many people will do anything to get out of a trip to the dentist, including putting up with bad breath, excruciating pain and even lost teeth. But it doesn't have to be this way, and overcoming your fear of the dentist is far easier than you think. Addressing your fear Dentists hear stories of the origin of their patients' fears every day and, while the underlying causes are numerous, patients commonly report their fear is focused on:

Is Cosmetic Teeth Whitening Right For You? Answer These Two Questions to Find Out!
If you hate the colour of your teeth and want to see a whiter and brighter smile, you might be wondering if cosmetic teeth whitening is right for you. Whilst teeth whitening can really improve your smile in a dramatic way, it's not something that's quite right for everyone. Answer the two questions below to find out whether cosmetic teeth whitening is right for you.  How Did the Discolouration Happen?

After You Whiten Your Teeth, Put These Tips Into Practise to Keep Them White and Bright!
If you're going to whiten your teeth at the cosmetic dentist, it's likely that they are significantly darkened or discoloured. Whilst the cosmetic teeth whitening will solve the problem of dark or discoloured teeth, it's important to remember that teeth whitening isn't permanent. However, you can often extend the longevity of your teeth whitening procedure by putting the following tips into practise.  Drink Differently Whilst you may be accustomed to drinking from a glass or a cup, adding a straw to the beverage is easy and fast.

The Dangers of Food Traps: How Food Traps Between Teeth Harm Your Oral Health
If you find that there are one or two places in your mouth where food debris constantly gets stuck, you probably have what dentists refer to as a "food trap". As the name suggests, pieces of food, such as steak and pork, for example, become wedged in the spaces between teeth. While, these pieces of debris usually come loose on their own, some food traps can trap food for days.

Understanding Your Options for Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Cosmetic dental procedures can make your mouth and smile look their best, but they're also often needed for good oral health. Missing, cracked, rotted, or otherwise damaged teeth can allow germs and bacteria to linger in the mouth, leading to increased risk of an oral infection and decay. Teeth also rely on each other for support, so a missing tooth can allow surrounding teeth to shift out of place. If you know you need cosmetic dentistry for any reason, note a few options you might have when it comes to various procedures so you know what to discuss with your cosmetic dentist.

Two Reasons to Have a Wisdom Tooth Removed
Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. However, if you experience any of the following issues after one of your wisdom teeth start to emerge, you may want to arrange for your dentist to perform an extraction. Frequent oral infections One of the main issues with wisdom teeth is that they often never fully emerge; in many cases, only one section of the tooth rises over the gum, and the other part stays underneath.

Is it Always Necessary to Have a Root Canal Before a Tooth is Crowned?
In dentistry, root canal therapy often precedes crown placement. However, this is not always the case. Provided the inner chamber (pulpal chamber) of a tooth has not been compromised, there is usually no need for a root canal procedure to be performed prior to crown placement. Each individual case is different and only a certified dentist can decide what is best for a tooth. It all depends on how badly a tooth is damaged.

The Pros and Cons of Lingual Braces
Lingual braces offer an additional orthodontic treatment option for people who would like to treat a defect, such as gaps in the teeth. However, one needs to consider the possible benefits and drawbacks of these lingual braces before opting for them. This article discusses some of the pros and the cons of lingual braces. Use this information to help you as you decide whether they are right for you or not.

What You Can Do About Sensitive Teeth
The pain associated with tooth sensitivity takes many forms and can last for seconds, or weeks. If your tooth pain is getting out of control, find out how you can fight back against the pain and kiss it goodbye forever. There is no need to suffer endlessly and many of the ways to minimise tooth pain are inexpensive or even free. Toothpaste Two active ingredients found in certain toothpastes help decrease tooth sensitivity.

Why, When And How To Seek Emergency Treatment For Dental Abscesses
Unexpected pain or bleeding in any part of your mouth should never be neglected, and even the most seemingly benign of dental maladies should be treated sooner rather than later before they can get worse. However, some dental problems are dangerous (not to mention painful) enough to merit immediate emergency treatment, and dentists specialising in emergency dental treatment should always be consulted immediately in these situations. If you've ever had a dental abscess, you might not have considered it important enough to warrant immediate treatment -- however, some advanced abscesses can become enormously painful and debilitating problems, and more than merit immediate emergency attention.

Assessing Your Options When It Comes to "Upgrading" Your Dentures
If you've been wearing dentures for some time now, you might find that they do not fit as well as they used to. This is not unexpected and in fact is quite commonplace, but dentists can generally help you to restore your full functionality and comfort. What are the options you may have in this situation? Assessing Your Needs To understand what issues you're having, the dentist will first of all need to ask a number of questions.

4 Signs Your Child Might Be Brushing Their Teeth Too Hard
Getting your children to brush their teeth two times a day can often be difficult. After all, it's hardly the most entertaining of tasks, and children can find it hard to appreciate the need. Unfortunately, there are some issues that you should continue to watch out for even after your children have started to diligently brush their teeth each day, and one of those issues is brushing too hard. It isn't at all unusual for children to brush their teeth a little more vigorously than they need to, but this is a bad habit that needs to be stopped.

Why You Shouldn't Ignore Any Missing Teeth
If you are a mature adult, it's quite possible that over the years you have lost one or more of your teeth. This can happen for a variety of reasons. If you lose one of your front teeth, it's highly likely that you have had it replaced as this can significantly affect your smile. People do place a great deal of emphasis on the "front facing" appearance, but if it's a back tooth, they may just leave it as is.

Exclusive Use of Non-Fluoridated Bottled Water Might Actually Damage Your Kid's Teeth
On the shelves of grocery stores and kitchen counters, bottled water is now a staple of the Australian dietary landscape. However, bottled water with no fluoride might actually be contributing to reduced dental health for your kids. Fluoride is a salt produced from the mixture of fluorine with soil and rock minerals. Generally, local municipalities voluntarily add fluoride to tap water in order to alleviate the threat of dental cavities. In contrast, the decision to include or not include fluoride is left to the individual producers of bottled water.

Closing the Gap: How a Dentist Can Treat Diastema
Many Australians suffer from diastema. Diastema is the medical term for a space between two teeth. These spaces provide the ideal location for food debris and plaque to collect. Once trapped between your teeth, the plaque and debris can cause tooth decay. As well as causing dental damage, diastema can also harm your self-esteem. If you are self-conscious about your teeth, you may avoid smiling in public. Below is a guide to everything you need to know about diastema.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Risk of Gum Disease: What You Need to Know
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory autoimmune condition which can increase the risk of you developing gum disease, which can result in swelling, pain, bleeding and bad breath. Below is a guide to all you need to know about the link between rheumatoid arthritis and gum disease. Risk Factors Below is a list of risk factors which can increase the likelihood that someone with rheumatoid arthritis will develop gum disease. Dry mouth: Some medications which are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis can cause a reduction in saliva levels.

Common Speech Problems Caused by New Dentures
If you have recently had a new set of dentures fitted, you may encounter problems with some aspects of speech. This is because dentures change the contours and shape of your mouth. These changes can restrict the natural movement of your tongue and teeth as you attempt to enunciate words. While these problems can be frustrating, as you adapt to your dentures the problems should be resolved. Below is a guide to 3 of the most common speech problems related to wearing dentures.

Basic Brushing for Those Who Don't
To avoid any unnecessary trips to the dentist because of a severe toothache, you need to look after your teeth on a daily basis. Over 30% of Australians avoid visiting the dentist on a regular basis, and so maintaining good daily oral hygiene is essential. Following these tips give you a whiter smile and fresher breath, and it'll help to kill off harmful bacteria that can build up and cause discolouration and painful issues like gum disease.

Common Dental Hygiene Mistakes
It might come as a surprise to learn that even a consistent, twice-daily dental hygiene routine isn't always enough to stave off tooth decay and gum disease. There are quite a few mistakes you might be making that could lead to you needing extensive dental work in a few years' time. Here are some of the most common oral hygiene errors that people make.  Brushing immediately after a meal It's common knowledge that the acid produced by bacteria-laden plaque instantly begins to attack your tooth enamel after you finish eating something.

Veneers Vs Lumineers: Which Should You Choose?
If you have imperfections of your front teeth, such as staining and discolouration, spaces between the teeth, and oddly-shaped teeth, you might be looking to correct your smile. A popular option is to get dental veneers, which are made from pieces of porcelain adhered to the front of your teeth. There are also Lumineers, which are similar but are thinner and applied slightly differently. Here are some things to think about when deciding between veneers or Lumineers.

Tips to Help You Transition into Denture Use with Ease and Confidence
Learning to live with full or partial dentures can present a huge adjustment for anyone. You have to change the way you carry out simple tasks you took for granted, like eating and speaking. However, with time, practice and these tips below, you can make your transition period much shorter and go back to enjoying life as you once knew it. Read on to learn more. 1. Speaking For easier speaking, bite your dentures and swallow once to ensure the dentures are in the right position.

5 Steps to Selecting the Perfect Family Dentist in Belconnen
Are you looking for a dentist who can meet the needs of your whole family? The ideal family dentist is not only a skilled professional, but also a kind and gentle individual who can put your kids at ease. Belconnen has plenty of dentists, but some are better equipped than others to sensitively care for young mouths. Follow these five steps to find your perfect family dentist in Belconnen. 1. Ask for Recommendations

Mistakes You're Probably Making Between Dental Visits
Visiting the dentist regularly is one of the best things you can do to protect the health of your mouth and teeth and keep your own natural teeth for as long as possible, if not indefinitely. A dentist can give your teeth a thorough cleaning and also check for signs of oral cancer and other such diseases. While visiting your dentist is very important, how you care for your teeth and your mouth between those visits is also vital for your oral health.

Make the Right Choice Between Bonding and Veneers
If you're unhappy with the discoloration of your teeth, a simple whitening procedure is likely to be all that you require. However, any problems beyond discoloration, such as chips, gaps, and crookedness, can't be solved simply by whitening; in these cases, you're best off going for either veneers or dental bonding. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so here's a quick rundown of those pros and cons to help you make the right decision to meet your needs.

3 Ways to Achieve Whiter Teeth and Greater Self-Esteem
Do you shy away from having your picture taken because you hate the colour of your teeth? Maybe you have a tendency to cover your mouth when you speak, or avoid smiling as you feel people will judge you for having a smile that isn't as white as it could be. Unfortunately, confidence can often be knocked by having teeth that are less than perfect; after all, teeth are one of the first things people see when they first meet you.

Should You Allow Children to Have Their Teeth Whitened?
As kids get older, they often become more conscious about their appearance. If they don't feel that their teeth look white enough, you may find that your teen, or even pre-teen, starts to ask about having their teeth whitened. As a parent, you want to help your child feel good about themselves; however, you also need to make sure that they don't make mistakes that may impact their dental health. What do you need to consider before you allow kids to have their teeth whitened?

3 Reasons to Choose Mini Dental Implants For Your Implant-Supported Dentures
If you have any missing teeth, you have a few options for replacing them. You can get a dental bridge, partial denture, or dental implants. Another option is to get an implant-supported denture with either full or mini dental implants. Mini implants have a wide range of benefits, as listed below. The Implant Procedure Is Done in a Single Appointment A major benefit to choosing mini dental implants over traditional ones is that you can get the entire procedure done in a single appointment.

New to Wearing Dentures? Denture Cleaning and Care
Dentures require a different care routine than the one used for natural teeth. If you are new to wearing dentures you may be unsure of the best way to care for them. Below we look at the steps needed to keep your dentures clean while maintaining your oral health. Prepare Dentures are not as resilient as natural teeth and can be easily chipped or broken. You should place a folded towel in the bottom of the sink and fill it with a little water.

How You Can Lower the Risks of Dental Implant Failure and How to Tell That Yours Are Failing
If you have failing or missing teeth, dental implants are a great choice to replace them. These implants will restore your smile as well as the functionality of your tooth. However, dental implants can fail sometimes, especially if they are not embedded firmly into your jawbone. Infections can also get in the way of the healing or recovery process of the implants, leading to failure of the implants. Therefore, here are ways you can reduce the risks of these infections and failure during recovery and signs that your dental implants are failing.

Home Care Tips to Make Your Dental Implants Last For a Long Time
When your natural tooth is no longer able to support itself, it will be removed by a qualified dentist and then it will be replaced by a dental implant. These are synthetic frames that are surgically placed into the jawbone underneath your gums. They provide support for artificial teeth, such as dentures and bridges. To get the implants, you must be committed to keeping them clean. The following are the vital care tips for your new dental implants:

3 Things Your Cosmetic Dentist Wants You To Consider About Teeth Whitening Goals
Teeth whitening is not a one-step procedure. Even if you buy an over the counter option, you will end up with several day's worth of the whitening treatment in order to reach your desired shade. If you decide to switch to an in-office teeth whitening option with your cosmetic dentist, there may be some things you should consider. One of those things is related to your actual teeth whitening goals and how you need to go about achieving them.

Quick Recovery Tips for Children Who Have Undergone a Dental Crown Procedure
Baby teeth are not permanent, but this does not mean that they are safe from decay. It is quite common for the back teeth to become decayed on young children. This can be caused by bad oral hygiene or sucking on bottles that are filled with sugary liquids. When decay occurs on the back teeth, this often results in the enamel and the pulp of the tooth becoming damaged. When this occurs, it is not possible for fillings to be added.

What to Expect From a Root Canal
If you have a deep tooth infection, your dentist might recommend getting a root canal. This dental procedure is performed by an endodontist, who specializes in the nerves and pulp of the teeth. The root canal is meant to remove infected pulp inside the canal of the tooth, which is done with a simple procedure. Here are some things to expect from your first root canal treatment. X-Rays Are Performed First

Talon Cusps—Could Your Child Be Affected?
If your child is experiencing irritation of their cheek, tongue or gums with no immediate apparent cause, it could be that they are suffering from an unusual dental condition referred to as 'talon cusps'.  But what are talon cusps and what can your dentist do to help?  Read on to find out more. What are talon cusps? Talon cusps are claw-like growths that can develop at the back of a child's tooth.

Pocket Rocket: How To Promote Healing And Speed Recovery Time After Pocket Reduction Surgery
Pocket reduction surgery is a procedure designed to reduce the space between a tooth and the surrounding gum line -- ordinarily, this space is only a few millimetres wide and presents no problems, but if you are suffering from a bout of gum disease, this pocket can widen, forming a great sheltered place for infectious bacteria to thrive. To close this pocket, a dental surgeon or periodontist like Dr Edmond Lobaza will temporarily widen the pocket, allowing them to thoroughly clean the inside of the pocket of bacteria, tartar and accumulated detritus.

Snoring Interrupting Your Sleep? Your Dentist Can Help With That!
Are you tired of your partner giving you a hard time about the snoring you do while you are asleep? If your snoring is not accompanied by sleep apnoea, the problem is relatively harmless except for the fact you have to use more energy to breathe while asleep than others who don't snore. Being tired every morning is a nuisance though, and you may be surprised to know your dentist can help solve this problem.

Should You Take Immediate Dentures Out at Night?
Once you get used to wearing your new dentures, you can typically choose whether you wear them all the time or not. If you're having a set of immediate dentures put in straight after your teeth are extracted, your dentist may ask you to follow other instructions for the first day or so. Your First Night With Immediate Dentures Your dentist may ask you to keep your dentures in for the first day, or even two days, after they are fitted.

Should You Reinsert a Knocked Out Baby Tooth?
If an adult has an accident and knocks out a tooth, dental advice typically recommends putting the tooth straight back in its socket. With subsequent help from a dentist, teeth may be saved and re-positioned permanently. However, dentists do not recommend that you reinsert a baby tooth after it has been knocked out accidentally, as you may do more harm than good. Why Shouldn't You Reinsert Baby Teeth? Your child's baby teeth sit under adult teeth.

3 Ways Bulimia Can Impact Your Dental Health And How Your Dentist Can Help
Bulimia can damage your oral health by exposing your teeth and gums to corrosive stomach acid each time you vomit. You may not want to discuss your eating disorder with your dentist, but they can help you maintain your oral health while struggling with this illness, and your dentist won't reveal details of your health to anyone else. Here are three ways your dental health can be damaged by bulimia and three ways your dentist can help:

5 ways to banish your gum disease naturally
Gum disease affects approximately 20% of Australian adults and is caused by tooth decay. All of the sugar that resides in your diet sticks to your teeth and the natural bacteria in your mouth feeds from it. This begins to rot your teeth and eat away at gums. Often the first sign is spitting blood when you brush your teeth. There may be no pain or discomfort, but gum disease can wreak havoc on your mouth and is the most common cause of tooth loss.

The Numerous Advantages of Invisalign Braces
Wearing braces in your adulthood can be both a physical as well as a metaphorical pain for some people. Due to how conspicuous they are, some individuals do not full embrace this treatment option later on in life. The good news is that metal dental braces are not the only option available to you. Invisalign technology is increasing in popularity due to the numerous advantages they offer their users. Here are some of the reasons why you should opt for this type of dental treatment:

Trouble Paying for Dental Emergencies? 5 Ideas to Help

Dental emergencies can be scary, but they are even scarier if you don't know how you are going to afford to pay for the appointment. If you have private dental insurance, that can help to offset the cost, but there are other ways to approach paying for emergency dental treatment. 1. See if you are eligible to visit a community dental clinic There are community dental clinics throughout Australia that offer low-cost emergency and routine dental care to people in financial need.

Choose the Right Type of Dental Prosthetic
Choosing the right dental prosthetic can be a tough process. There exist many varieties of prosthesis, and each has its own particular benefits. Whether your needs are purely aesthetic, or if your oral health is impacting negatively on your day-to-day life, a visit to the prosthodontist can give you a healthy, white smile. Below are the primary types of dental prosthetic, and the situations in which each one is preferable.

Menopausal Woman: The Facts You Need To Know For Healthy Teeth
Being a female who is dealing with menopause is bad enough! There's hot flushes, rampaging hormones, and tiredness all to be tackled during this time of change. However, you may not be aware that right now the health of your teeth is at risk too. Be aware of the dental issues that come hand-in-hand with menopause so that you can seek the dental care you need if the situation arises.

Root Canals: What Are They

You may have been told that you need a root canal due to some advanced decay in a tooth. What exactly is this, and how will you benefit from this treatment, as opposed to extraction, or doing nothing? What's Being Treated? Within each tooth is a pulp, which is the living tissue. The pulp consists of blood vessels, connecting tissues and nerves. When you develop a crack in the tooth, food particles and bacteria can get in and cause infection within the tissue.

How To Take Care Of Dental Bridges
Accidents or decay can cause people to lose their teeth. Dental bridges help to keep the remaining teeth in place.  A missing tooth can lead to shift in other teeth, increase the risk of getting periodontal disease and affect the bite. Dental bridges help to fill the gaps and holes of missing teeth. Bridges should be cared for properly, as they are costly. Improper care will lead to loss of the bridges and the supporting teeth.

Four Services Your General Dentist Offers That May Surprise You
When you think about your general dentist, you may think of things like having your teeth cleaned, your annual check-up or basic dental services. There are some services your dentist offers that may surprise you. If you are thinking of having some dental work done in the near future, you may want to consider getting the following services from your general dentist first, before you sign on with a specialist.