Whether you’re a new or a repeat patient, one question your dental practitioner will ask regularly is, ‘Are you currently taking any medications?’

But they’re not being nosey. There are known links between oral health and overall wellbeing. How you’re feeling (well or not) and anything you’re taking to make you feel better can affect your teeth, gums, and oral health treatment plan. 

Disclosing information about any medications you’re on can feel very personal. And sometimes it’s a sensitive subject.

Hopefully this article will put your mind at ease, as it explains exactly why your dentist needs to know what medication you’re taking or treatments you’re receiving. 

The effects of medications on oral health and dental care

Australia is privileged in having access to a range of effective medicines. But while they can work wonders at healing us, giving us mental balance or relieving our pain, they can also have side effects. And some of those side effects can affect your mouth and oral health.

Whether they’re injected, inhaled or taken orally, prescribed and over-the-counter medicines can have side effects that affect the mouth. One you might be familiar with, especially if you’re prone to getting colds or hayfever, is dry mouth. 

The formula of some medications reduces saliva production. Saliva helps the body remove bacteria around your teeth and gums. And when there isn’t enough of it, the chance of developing tooth decay or gum disease increases.

So the ‘drink more fluids’ advice is good not only for combating sickness, but also for counteracting the dry mouth effects of some medications. 

If you’re taking blood-thinning medications, you may bleed more easily or for longer when you have even a minor cut. And this information is relevant to your dentist in case a tooth needs removing. 

Unfortunately, bleeding is inevitable during a tooth extraction. (Sorry if that’s too much information.) And if you’re taking blood thinners, clotting and healing after an extraction may be harder. But if they have the right information, your dental practitioner can take steps to ensure the bleeding isn’t excessive.

Immunosuppressants can also lengthen the healing time. Any major dental work you need (e.g. dental implants, multiple tooth extraction) is best saved until you’ve finished the course.  

For those taking antihypertensives to lower blood pressure, there’s a risk of gum swelling and overgrowth. And people taking medications to treat osteoporosis may experience painful mouth ulcers. 

Many of the medications we’ve mentioned so far are usually prescribed by a doctor. But it’s not just prescription medications that can affect your teeth and gums. Many over-the-counter tablets, capsules and syrups can also affect mouth health.

• Aspirin is highly acidic, and can damage tooth enamel. 
• Antihistamines for hayfever—or in cold and flu medicines—can lead to dry mouth. 
• Many syrups, medicines and lozenges contain spoonfuls of sugar, which contributes to tooth decay. 

Telling your dentist what medications you’re currently taking is the best way to look after your mouth.

Whether it’s the hayfever tablets you’ve been taking for the past week or the ongoing need to micro-dose aspirin, telling your dentist means they can:

1. factor it into your personalised treatment plan
2. better understand what oral health challenges you’re facing, and their root cause
3. suggest and carry out treatments that fit in with the medication you’re taking. You may need to finish the course or stop taking it before receiving some dental treatments. But your dentist or doctor will always advise you if and when this is necessary. 

What about supplements and herbal remedies?

Some supplements and herbal remedies can potentially increase the risk of bleeding. Let your dentist know if you’re taking any herbal remedies or supplements containing the following:

• St John’s Wort 
• ginger 
• turmeric 
• garlic 
• ginkgo biloba 
• ginseng 
• glucosamine 
• evening primrose oil 
• fish oil. 

If possible, stop taking them a week or so before your appointment. (Source: ADA media release.)

If you’re worried about disclosing medications to your dentist

You may not feel comfortable telling your dentist what medications you’re taking. You may be holding back due to stigma, shame, sadness or simply because you’re a private person. But please understand that any information you give your dentist will remain confidential – just like the information you give your doctor. 

If you don’t feel comfortable sharing your medication list with your dentist, you could ask your GP or treatment specialist to write a letter on your behalf and send it on. (Note: there may be a small fee attached to this.) 

Alternatively, you could email the practice before your appointment with the details of your medications, but ask that any discussions around it be treated sensitively or kept to a minimum. 

Make a meds list to bring to your appointment

The spelling and brand names of different medications aren’t easy to remember. And you may want to let your dentist know when you started the medication and how long you expect to be on it. 

To make sure you give your dentist the right information about the medications you’re on, bring a medications list to your appointment. Gathering all this information is much easier when you’re at home with the bottles and packets in front of you. Put together a simple table like the one below and bring it with you.

You can then quickly and easily fill in the relevant section of the new patient form (or hand the list to your dentist if you’re a repeat patient).

Medication updates and changes

Generally, you only need to see your dentist once or twice a year. And a lot can happen during that time, including changes to your medications. If this is the case, you’ll need to let your dentist know what you’re taking now that the course has finished. It’s all helpful information that keeps your treatment plan relevant and delivers the oral health care you need. 

If you feel comfortable talking to the practice receptionist about your medication, give them the information when you make your appointment. Alternatively, you can let your dentist know directly. Just bring your amended medications list when you next see them. 

Extra tip: If you want to speak only to your dentist about the medications you’re on, let the receptionist know you’d like some extra time with your dentist. All you need to say is that there are some things you want to discuss with your dentist. You don’t need to say any more than that, but it means you won’t have to rush. 

Need to let your Keppel Dentist know what medications you’re taking?

If you’re a Keppel Dental patient and you haven’t updated your dentist about the medications you’re taking, then now’s a good time. (You’re already thinking about it, so why not tick that job off your to-do list?) 

The easiest way is to update us at your next appointment. If your appointment is coming up in the next week or so and your medications have only recently changed, give us a call (07) 3130 0297 to let us know in advance.

The start of Australia’s footy and rugby season strikes fear in me that I don’t feel the rest of the year. As a fan, I find the games entertaining. But as a dentist, I worry about the thousands of teeth that will be chipped or knocked out during a training session or on game day. 

According to the Australian Dental Association NSW, 40% of dental injuries are sports-related. What’s perhaps even more shocking is that only 36% of Aussies who play contact sports wear a mouthguard on game day. 

While some accidents are unavoidable, there’s one major step you can take as a sports player: Wear a sports mouthguard. (Or, If you have children who play sports, make them wear one.)

Whether you’re looking to buy your first mouthguard, or just checking your mouthguard knowledge, by reading this guide you’ll find out:

• what a mouthguard is
• the different types of mouthguards you can buy
• who should have a mouthguard in their kit bag 
• the potential risks of not wearing a mouthguard
• how to fit and care for your mouthguard 
• a dentist’s dream for mouthguards in the future. 

Let’s start by learning what a mouthguard is and how it can help prevent dental trauma. 

What is a mouthguard?

Mouthguards may be small, but they do a mighty job. When worn over the top teeth, a well-designed mouthguard will absorb some of the impact you encounter when playing sports. It reduces the chance of your upper and lower teeth clattering together and minimises the risk of you biting your cheeks or tongue, and splitting your lips. 

What wearing a mouthguard feels like will depend on the quality of the piece and the material it’s made of. Mass-produced, budget-friendly, store-bought mouthguards are generally made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). (Interestingly, PVC mouthguards have been banned in the EU.) But sports mouthguards are more commonly made from EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), which has a more flexible, rubbery texture. 

The different types of mouthguards

There are different mouthguards for different purposes. A dentist may suggest you wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth (known as bruxism) or as a treatment for sleep apnoea, as well as if you’re playing sport. 

The difference between a sports mouthguard and one designed to help with a medical condition is that sports mouthguards are made out of a different material and are generally thicker. Whatever the sport—boxing, hockey, netball— guards that are 3-4mm thick should offer good protection. 

As well as having different purposes, mouthguards have different styles.

Custom mouthguards

Designed specifically for your mouth, custom mouthguards offer the greatest protection. These are made from an impression of your mouth, which delivers a better fit around your teeth and soft tissue. 

While you can see your dentist to get the moulds made, you don’t need to. Some sports companies and dedicated mouthguard manufacturers (e.g. Sportsafe Australia) specialise in custom mouthguards. As part of their process, they’ll take impressions of your mouth and teeth and make the moulds. This may be more cost-effective than seeing your dentist, especially if making sports mouthguards isn’t a service they offer. 

Boil and bite

Available at sports stores and some chemists, boil and bite mouthguards work by being placed in boiling water. When they’re soft (but cool enough to put in the mouth), the wearer bites down on the guard to create an impression. While this customises them to some extent,  you probably won’t get a full impression of your mouth, which means not all of your teeth and gums will be properly protected. 

Store-bought mouthguards

The most basic of mouthguards, these are a one-size-fits-most deal. Because the guard doesn’t fit the shape of your mouth, store-bought guards may be uncomfortable to wear for long periods. They’re also more likely to fall out. Of all the mouthguard styles, these offer the least amount of protection and should be used only as a last resort. 

Chances are the type of mouthguard you choose will be influenced by:

• your budget, 
• how often you play sport 
• the type of sport you play. 

But if you want to be completely sure your teeth and mouth are properly protected, investing in a custom mouthguard is the best option.  

Who should wear a sports mouthguard?

Footy players have already been mentioned.  And anyone—adult or child—who plays contact sports is also an obvious candidate. But AFL, NRL and boxing aren’t the only sports where everyone should be wearing a mouthguard. 

Anyone playing a sport where there’s a risk of colliding, falling or being hit in the mouth should wear a mouthguard. So this extends to sports such as:

• netball
• soccer
• hockey
• basketball 
• martial arts
• skateboarding
• cricket (when batting or fielding in close). 

Some of the sports on our list might surprise you. Or you may think we’re being overly cautious. But taking a ball to the mouth or hitting the deck can result in injuries that cost a lot more than buying a mouthguard and wearing it for a  few hours. 

The risks of not wearing a mouthguard

I don’t want to get super gruesome, so I’ll spare you the sport-related dental trauma we’ve treated at Keppel Dental. But the reality is that not wearing a sports mouthguard increases the risk of copping a nasty injury that can take weeks (or even months) to recover from. And depending on your injuries, it may take your bank balance just as long to recover. 

Training or playing without a mouthguard can lead to:

• biting your cheeks or tongue (which can result in needing stitches)
• a chipped tooth or teeth, which you may need dental restoration treatment to fix
• knocking out a tooth or multiple teeth, which could have you investing in a dental implant if the tooth can’t be saved 
• a broken jaw, which may involve one or more operations to help reset, repair and heal the jaw.

Injuries that require hospital or dental care can cost you more than the season. Your treatment may cost thousands of dollars. And depending on the injury and what’s needed to repair it, it could take a lifetime to treat.

Mouthguards and concussion  

You may have heard that mouthguards can also help protect against concussion. The theory is a properly fitted mouthguard absorbs enough of the impact to reduce the risk of concussion symptoms such as dizziness. But this idea is being widely abandoned by sport medical professionals.  

A small study by the University of North Carolina assessed 180 concussed athletes by looking at their cognitive function from their concussion test. The athletes were separated into two groups: those who were wearing a mouthguard when they were concussed, and those who weren’t. The conclusion was that ‘mouthguard use does not result in any observable differences in neurocognitive performance following concussion.’ But this isn’t to say that mouthguards don’t play a role in understanding sports concussions.

HITIQ make ‘smart mouthguards—mouthguards embedded with force measuring sensors that link to an app. When someone takes a hit, the technology in the mouthguard feeds back to monitors, making it quicker and easier for sports medical teams to accurately assess the severity of a concussion.

So while we highly recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect against dental and mouth trauma, if you think it will reduce the potential impact of concussion you’re going to be disappointed. Mouthguards can protect you from a lot of inner-mouth damage. But they can’t protect you from a knock to the head. 

Mouthguard fitting tips

The easiest way to get a mouthguard that fits properly is to get one custom-made. A guard created from an impression of your mouth will offer protection from your front teeth all the way to your molars, as well as around your gums. 

In Australia you might pay anything between $200 and $400 for a custom sports mouthguard, depending on the size of your mouth and any design work you have done on it. (You may see footy players with fanged teeth designs, team colours, or their name.)

You’ll know your mouthguard is fitting right if:

1. it’s comfortable to wear, even for long periods 
2. it doesn’t feel loose, or fall out easily when you make impact
3. you can breathe, swallow and talk normally. 

A good quality mouthguard should also be odourless, and not leave a plastic taste in your mouth. 

Looking after your mouthguard

An adult mouthguard that’s well-looked after can last several seasons. I say ‘adult’ because children’s mouthguards should be replaced each year. Kids’ bodies are always changing, including their mouth and jaw. They may also still be losing their milk teeth, and have adult teeth only partially through. 

To keep your mouthguard working as it should, and to stop it becoming a hygiene risk or added stink in your kit bag, you should:

• wash it in warm (not hot) soapy water after every game and training session 
• allow it to air dry rather than trying to dry it with a towel (to avoid the risk of it getting covered in lint)
• avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or exposing it to high temperatures so it doesn’t go brittle or change shape so much that it no longer fits
• keep it in a well-ventilated storage box to protect it from damage (and getting hot and potentially sweating). 

3D printing mouthguards: the dream result

A  common misconception is you can only get a custom sports mouthguard by seeing your dentist. Many dentists do offer this service. But it will often cost more than it would if you order one through a specialist mouthguard manufacturer. 

Currently, making a custom mouthguard involves using sticky, gooey putty to take an impression of your mouth. It’s then sent to a dental technician, who uses it to make a mould of your mouth. And once they have the mould, the mouthguard can be made to fit.

In an ideal world, we’d use digital dentistry techniques instead of putty. Having a 3D scan of your mouth taken is much more comfortable. And it’s a lot quicker than taking impressions of the mouth, making the model, and sending it off to have the mouthguard created. 

What would be even better is if we could use a 3D printer to print high-quality, custom sports mouthguards. Again, this would save time and lower the cost. 

At the moment, EVA is still the best material for mouthguard manufacturing. Unfortunately, it’s not commonly used for 3D printing, so it’s hard to get hold of it in a form that would work with a 3D printer.

So until the situation changes, or we find an alternative material that’s just as good as EVA but works with 3D printers, it will remain a nerdy dentist’s dream. 

Want to discuss your need for a sports mouthguard with a dentist?

Getting a sports mouthguard is a wise investment. But finding one that fits your needs isn’t always easy if you have braces, crowns or a bridge. You may also be worried about the effect a mouthguard will have on your teeth. 

If this sounds like you, then it might be worth getting some advice from a dentist. 

Keppel Dental can help any sports-mad people in the Yeppoon and Rockhampton area. We can take impressions for child and adult mouthguards, and help you get a custom guard. Get in touch with us today, and we can go from there.

Kids are wriggly at the best of times. At worst, trying to get your children to brush their teeth can trigger a full-blown tantrum.

You might not think it’s essential for your child to brush their baby teeth. They’re going to fall out anyway, right? But actually, if your kids don’t brush their baby teeth twice a day, they risk:

• tooth decay
• gum disease
• pain and discomfort
• problems with eating
• problems with speaking
• building bad dental hygiene habits 
• problems with the eruption of permanent teeth.

So how can you encourage your small people to brush their teeth?

Here are 5 tips and tricks to help you  win this twice-a-day battle.

1. Build good oral hygiene habits early

Most children under 6 don’t have the fine motor skills needed to brush their teeth effectively. They’ll need your help. But they can still  build good oral hygiene habits early.

Even before your children’s baby teeth erupt, wipe their gums with a soft, damp cloth, once in the morning and once at night. This will help prepare them for the sensation of having their teeth brushed. Once their teeth start coming through, switch to a toothbrush. When their teeth start to touch, you can begin flossing.

2. Choose the right toothpaste and brush

It’s important to use toothbrushes, toothpaste (for children over 18 months) and flossers designed for children. This will make the experience more comfortable for them, (and hopefully) less of a drama. For example, kids’ toothbrushes have small heads made to fit small mouths, and soft bristles which are gentle on gums and milk teeth. 

To help your child do a good job and have more fun, you could give them an electric toothbrush, which emulates accurate brushing. Kids over the age of 3 should be safe to use an electric brush, under supervision. 

Our advice on toothpaste, is:

• children under the age of 18 months shouldn’t use toothpaste
• from 18 months to 6 years, use a pea-sized drop of low-fluoride children’s toothpaste 
• from 6 years and up, use a pea-sized amount of standard fluoride toothpaste.

As for flossing, make sure kids use interdental flossers without sharp edges.

[IMAGE IDEA: Can the client provide a photo of the type of flossing tool they’d recommend children use.]

Give your kids the fun and the responsibility of choosing their own toothbrush and toothpaste. Children’s toothbrushes come in a range of colours and themes. There’s bound to be a brush with their favourite cartoon character to get them excited.

3. Set a good example

Kids love to mimic their parents, so set a good example by brushing and flossing regularly.

Even if your toothless children just watch you brush your teeth, it helps them build good habits. When they’re old enough to use a toothbrush (even if they lack the skills to brush effectively), brush your teeth as a family. You can make this twice-daily routine more fun by mirroring your kids’ brushing. Or if you’re feeling particularly daring, let them brush your teeth while you brush theirs.

4. Make toothbrushing fun

Here are 9 things you can try to make toothbrushing more fun for your kids.

• Use props like dolls and stuffed animals to roleplay toothbrushing.
• Play your kids’ favourite song or a song specifically about brushing their teeth. (You can try singing too!)
• Use toothbrushing books and apps to teach your kids about brushing and make it more enjoyable.
• Come up with your own stories about toothbrushing.
• Set a sand timer (preferably one with colourful sand) and challenge them to brush until time’s up.
• Reward kids for consistent brushing and flossing.
• Get your kids to clean their teeth during the ad breaks of their favourite shows.
• If they get bored of brushing in the bathroom, try getting them to brush their teeth in a different room or space.
• Get the Tooth Fairy to write them a note encouraging them to brush their teeth.

5. Take a fun trip to the dentist

Believe it or not, visiting a dental practice can be fun. Generally, an oral health therapist (OHT) sees the little ‘uns. And a ‘ride in the chair’ can break the ice and help them settle. If your child is very apprehensive we’ll offer them a plastic mouth mirror to hold and keep. This let’s the OHT show your child what they’re doing and the equipment they’re using.

Our OHTs love to share toothbrushing technique with interested kids, and every child is offered a balloon model at the end of their appointment. 

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A trip to the dentist may also reveal underlying issues you’re not aware of. For example, sensitive teeth could be causing your child pain or discomfort when they brush, which could explain why they put up a fight at teeth cleaning time. Your dentist will determine the source of the problem and suggest products and practices that can help.

We recommend booking a dental appointment after your child’s first birthday, even if they don’t have any teeth.

3 Steps for brushing little kid’s teeth 

Cleaning your small child’s teeth may not be a smooth experience. Here’s what you can do to make it easier and more comfortable for both of you.

Step 1: Find a comfortable position, usually with your child sitting on your lap facing away from you. 

Step 2: Rest your child’s head against your body and cup their chin with one hand. 

Step 3: Brush their teeth along the gum line on both inside and outside surfaces. Work gently in small circles. On the chewing surfaces, use back-and-forth brushing motions.

How long should kids brush their teeth?

We recommend that your children brush their teeth for 2 minutes twice a day, once in the morning and once at night before bed.

Should your children rinse after brushing?

We recommend not rinsing with water after brushing. Ask your children to spit out the toothpaste when they’re done brushing. The small amount of toothpaste that remains in their mouth will protect their teeth.

It’s never too early to build good oral hygiene habits

The sooner your children develop good toothbrushing and flossing routines, the better.

Fun routines encourage them to take care of their teeth, and help avoid tooth decay and gum disease.

After more tips and tricks?

Check out our article on caring for your children’s teeth and accessing free dental care for children in Australia.

Use these oral health facts to ditch your dental treatment fear

Regular visits to the dentist are an important part of caring for your teeth. But if the thought of having one makes you feel anxious, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is quite common. Unfortunately, the anxiety is often caused by the false facts (or as we like to call them, ‘untooths’) that regularly do the rounds. 

It’s time to pick apart this fake news and debunk the dental myths. From whitening treatments that weaken teeth to the causes of bad breath, we’re going to reveal the truth about dental treatments and ailments that are often misunderstood.

Jump to a dental myth:

Myth #1: Whitening products weaken your teeth
Myth #2: You’ll get a lecture from your dentist if you haven’t been for a while
Myth #3: Bad breath only happens if you don’t brush and floss your teeth
Myth #4: Brushing harder or with a firm brush gets your teeth cleaner
Myth #5: You only need to visit a dentist if you have a problem
Myth #6: It’s not safe to visit a dentist when you’re pregnant
Myth #7: Bad teeth are hereditary
Myth #8: It’s better to have your wisdom teeth removed
Myth #9: You shouldn’t clean your teeth if your gums bleed
Myth #10: Enamel can’t grow back but it can be repaired
Myth #11: The sugar in fruits won’t damage your teeth

Myth #1: Teeth whitening products weaken your teeth

Behind the myth: Teeth will naturally stain over time, especially if you enjoy tea, coffee, and dark foods such as berries and some curries. Using a tooth whitening product is one way to remove, or lessen the appearance of, these stains. But you may have heard that whitening products weaken the teeth.

Teeth whitening treatments, when carried out professionally, will remove stains from teeth safely and effectively. And while some people experience sensitivity around their teeth and gums after treatment, it soon passes. 

For our full take on teeth whitening, read our article on how your dentist can whiten your teeth.

Myth #2: You’ll get a lecture from your dentist if you haven’t been for a while 

Behind the myth: Dentists are human too. We understand that life gets busy, and before you know it the months have flown by without you having a check-up. 

The truth is, we’re happy to see you no matter how long it’s been since your last visit. We want to work with you to create an oral health plan that fits with your lifestyle. There’s no point dwelling on the past. What’s important is taking care of your teeth now and into the future. Please don’t let this myth stop you from making an appointment for a check-up.

Myth #3: Bad breath only happens if you don’t brush and floss your teeth

Behind the myth: Halitosis (bad breath) isn’t always due to poor dental hygiene. It can be caused by:

• eating strongly flavoured foods such as garlic and onions
• alcohol and cigarettes 
• illnesses outside your mouth (e.g. a throat or sinus infection) 
• dry mouth, which is common when you wake up in the morning 
• medical conditions such as diabetes. 

If you’re worried about your breath, see your dentist. They can help you determine the cause, and hopefully rule out an infection in your mouth, gum disease, or tooth decay. 

If it is one of these, we can treat it and have you breathing all over people with confidence again in no time. (We’re joking, of course. That would be weird. But you’ll be far less self-conscious about being close to other people.)

Myth #4: Brushing harder or with a firm brush gets your teeth cleaner

Behind the myth: There are so many brushing myths out there that we wrote an entire  article about when brushing goes bad. But here’s a summary of what you need to know.

• Pressing harder won’t make your teeth any cleaner. In fact, too much pressure can damage teeth and gums. The bristles on the brush will also splay if you press too hard, making it about as useful as a chocolate teapot.
• Using a firm bristled brush won’t clean better either. Again, you’re more likely to damage your teeth. It can also lead to gum recession. The evidence shows that a soft brush is just as effective.   

Myth #5: You only need to visit a dentist if you have a problem

Behind the myth: Seeing your dentist isn’t like seeing your doctor. You shouldn’t be making appointments only when you’re experiencing pain or symptoms. You should be seeing your dentist before you have an issue so they can prevent it. Which means the earlier or more regularly you see them, the better. 

Regular check ups also help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Visit often enough and you (hopefully) shouldn’t experience any oral health problems. But if you do, seeing your dentist regularly means it can be treated before it becomes a serious problem. At your regular check-up we’ll professionally clean your teeth to reduce the likelihood of you needing more invasive and expensive treatments later on.

Myth #6: It’s not safe to visit a dentist when you’re pregnant

Behind the myth: Not only is it safe to visit a dentist when you’re pregnant, it becomes even more important for you to maintain your oral health. You should tell us you’re pregnant (even if you’re in the early stages) so we can provide the correct care for you, and discuss any concerns you may have regarding treatment. 

Mothers-to-be are often worried about the safety of local anaesthetic injections used for dental treatments. Anaesthetics are available that can be used safely both during pregnancy and when breastfeeding. But untreated tooth decay and gum disease can lead to infections, which can pose a far greater risk to mums. Keeping you and bub safe is what matters. That’s why we wrote this article on caring for your teeth during pregnancy.

Myth #7: Bad teeth are hereditary

Behind the myth: While your genes can influence how your teeth develop and make you more prone to dental issues, inheriting bad oral care habits is far more likely to increase the risk of getting cavities. 

When a Melbourne study looked at the teeth of 173 sets of twins, it found varying degrees of decay. This suggests that environmental factors affect the health of your teeth more than genes. Your enamel structure, saliva, and the shape and alignment of your teeth are all hereditary. But no matter what teeth you inherit, a diet high in sugars, constant snacking, poor dental hygiene and missed dental checkups are the root cause of most oral health issues. 

Myth #8: It’s better to have your wisdom teeth removed

Behind the myth: This is a weird one. Extraction is an absolute last resort. As dentists, we much prefer to help you keep your natural teeth. So unless extraction is absolutely necessary, we wouldn’t recommend ripping teeth out of your mouth. And that includes your wisdom teeth.

Your wisdom teeth need removing only if they’re causing problems such as pain, swelling, gum inflammation or decay, or are likely to cause problems in the future. Outside of those, there are no scientifically proven health benefits of having your wisdom teeth removed. If you have any concerns about your own or your child’s wisdom teeth, discuss them with your dental team. 

Myth #9: You shouldn’t clean your teeth if your gums bleed

Behind the myth: This is possibly one of the oldest dental myths, and one that needs some serious debunking. Because bleeding gums after brushing can be a sign of early gum disease or gingivitis caused by a lack of brushing. 

If anything you should keep brushing. Make sure you brush for two minutes twice a day, floss once a day, and rinse your mouth with water after each meal or snack. Use a soft toothbrush and apply a light pressure (if you’re not already) until your gums heal. 

Myth #10: Enamel can’t grow back but can be repaired

Behind the myth: Tooth enamel is tough. It needs  to be so it can protect each tooth from a lifetime of chomping. But it can be eroded by:

• sugary or acidic drinks
• high sugar and starch intake
• dry mouth
• acid reflux 
• certain medications. 

And once it’s gone, it’s gone. It can’t grow back. Until recently, this was true. But scientific breakthroughs may soon allow us to regrow tooth enamel.

Trials have begun on a lozenge containing a genetically engineered peptide that forms the building block of tooth enamel. Scientists in China have invented a gel that stimulates crystal regrowth to restore the original structure of tooth enamel. More recently, researchers from the University of Washington have created organoids from stem cells to secrete the proteins that form enamel.

But for now, the best option is to avoid losing it in the first place by following a good daily dental regime and having regular check-ups.

Myth #11: The sugar in fruits won’t damage your teeth

Behind the myth: Eating fruit is good for you. It can’t possibly do any damage to your body, right? 

Sugar is sugar, no matter how it’s packaged. Whether it’s coming from lollies, chocolate, ice cream, soft drink or your beloved banana, it’s still a major cause of tooth decay. And it can be even worse when you combine it with the enamel-softening acid found in fruits such as oranges, grapes and pineapples. 

But it’s not all bad news. Fruit also contains vitamins and minerals that have tooth-friendly health benefits. 

To enjoy fruit without damaging your teeth, choose fruits low in acidity and sugar such as berries, peaches and apples. And rinse your mouth with water after eating them to remove any sugar left on the surface of your teeth. 

Now you know the whole tooth!

Dental myths are damaging. They often raise fears and concerns and make people hesitant about getting the oral health care they need.

Hopefully we’ve helped you understand why these 11 dental myths create such fear, and convinced you to debunk them and lay them to rest. And we hope you’re feeling a little more confident about booking an appointment with your dentist. 

If you’re in the Yeppoon and Rockhampton area and need a dentist, we can help. To find out more about our ethos and approach to modern dentistry, visit our About page. 

Inside this article:
🦷 Oral health and heart health
🦷 Oral health and Alzheimer’s Disease
🦷 Oral health and cancer
🦷 Oral health and birth defects
🦷 Oral health and diabetes
🦷 Oral health and diet

Did you know there’s a link between poor oral health and heart disease, cancer and birth defects?

Brushing your teeth and visiting your dentist could prevent diabetes and Alzheimer’s. And the importance of oral health extends to heart disease, birth defects and even some cancers. 

Now that’s a big incentive to take care of your oral health. Who would have thought that looking after your teeth could improve your general health?

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that oral disease affects nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide. It also states that many of the risk factors for oral disease can be modified. That means people can prevent and fix oral health issues. And given the links to other diseases, the importance of oral health is critical to many areas of our body.

But what health conditions can be linked to poor oral health? And what can you do to reduce the risk of being affected by them?

Oral health and heart health

Did you know that gum disease can also be bad news for your ticker? According to the Heart Foundation, people with gum disease are twice as likely to have heart disease. And that’s a big deal. Heart disease was the number one cause of all deaths in Australia for the 2021 reference period.

Scientists have established a link between oral health and heart disease. However, they’re quick to point out that more research is needed to establish a direct cause between the two. Current theories suggest the bacteria from infected gums travel to the heart. This bacteria transfer can then result in endocarditis, an infection of your heart lining. 

Another theory is our body’s response (immunity) to gum bacteria in the heart can cause inflammation, clots, or sticky blood vessels. This results in cholesterol collection, which then leads to decreased or blocked blood flow.

So not looking after those toothy pegs could do more than just kill your Instagram status. 

Oral health and Alzheimer’s Disease

Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, was the second leading cause of death in Australia between 2017 and 2021. 

A 2021 systematic review collated and analysed a series of scientific papers to see if there was a  link between periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s disease. It found that “The literature currently seems to converge towards the affirmation of a link between periodontal diseases and Alzheimer’s disease”.

However, the review also states that more research is needed to confirm the connection between the two. 

We have around 700 types of bacteria in our mouths. And one study in the review suggests that one of them may be responsible. This bad boy’s scientific name is Porphyomanas gingivalis. (What a mouthful. And, yes, pun intended.) 

P .gingivalis is one of the main culprits for gum disease. A recent study suggests that P. gingivalis can spread to the brain. The infection causes a plaque build-up response (beta-amyloid proteins). The plaque and its by-products can also be toxic and may cause blockages. And these blockages between neurons can interfere with the brain’s connections and messaging.

Oral health and cancer

Chances are cancer has affected you, a loved one or a colleague. And despite all the research, it’s still a terrifying diagnosis. 

Scientists identified poor oral health as a risk factor for mouth cancer. They associated gum disease with a 43% increase in oesophageal cancer and a 52% increase in gastric cancer.

But  while it’s a widespread disease, could good oral hygiene help prevent some cancers? 

Scientists identified poor oral health as a risk factor for mouth cancer. The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health linked periodontal disease and some cancers. They associated gum disease with a 43% increase in oesophageal cancer and a 52% increase in gastric cancer. It has also been linked to lung, pancreatic, colorectal, head and neck cancer.

Again, the connections need further research. Science needs to confirm that poor oral health is causing the cancer, and that it wasn’t simply present at the same time. But it’s not worth taking risks when it’s so easy to perfect your oral health routine.

Oral health and birth defects

Poor oral health can affect an unborn baby. Severe gum disease can lead to women giving birth early, resulting in underweight babies. 

Premature birth can lead to serious issues for a newborn, including hearing, eyesight and even brain injury. 

Better Health Channel suggests that out of every 100 premature births, 18 can be linked to periodontal disease (severe gum disease). 

The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care found differing results. They didn’t see a substantial reduction in premature births by treating gum disease during pregnancy. However,  there was a reduction (from 9.6% to 1.7%) in children’s teeth decay when a pregnant woman improved her oral health.

Of course, we need to look after the star of this show, the mum-to-be. During pregnancy, some women are more prone to dental problems. Check out this article on caring for your teeth during pregnancy for 10 ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy during pregnancy.  

Oral health and diabetes

People with diabetes have a higher incidence of dental problems. Dental issues include infections, low saliva production, tooth decay, poor healing, and even an altered sense of taste. The Australian Dental Association is a leading source of dental information, and provides great tips on preventing and managing complications of diabetes on dental health.

Recent discoveries suggest the link goes both ways. In other words, periodontitis can negatively affect blood sugar regulation. And the effect it has on blood sugar levels can result in higher chances of pre-diabetes and diabetes. 

Oral health and diet

Poor oral health can affect your general diet in other ways.:

• Decayed and broken teeth can be very painful. They can stop you from eating altogether, or choosing to eat only certain foods due to their texture. Ultimately, this will affect your nutrition.
• Missing teeth and poor oral care “partly contribute to restricted dietary choices and poor nutritional status of older adults“. It can limit your food choices and prevent you from chewing your food thoroughly, which can in turn hinder the digestive process. 
• Sensitivities can stop you enjoying some of the best things in life. We live in Yeppoon and Rockhampton, and so we know some days aren’t complete  until you’ve had ice cream. Don’t let sensitivity to cold or hot food ruin your enjoyment of life.
• Inflamed, red and bleeding gums can make you subconsciously skip lunch or even brushing your teeth for fear of doing more damage. 

What other conditions link to poor oral health?

The Mayo Clinic includes a number of ailments as possible connections to poor oral health, such as:

• stroke
• pneumonia
• osteoporosis.

Now that you know the importance of oral health, what can you do to reduce the risks?

The good news is you have the power to change things in your hands. Well, provided your hands are holding a toothbrush and some floss. 

Regular, effective teeth and gum cleaning creates a healthy mouth. And now you know it can also improve your overall health.

Once those hands have finished brushing and flossing, get them to dial your dentist. Regular dental visits will keep your teeth clean and your gums healthy. They can also diagnose any oral problems early. And your dental team is happy to show you how best to brush and floss.

Want better overall health? Don’t forget the importance of dental health.

Are you in the Yeppoon or Rockhampton area and thinking it’s time for an oral health check? Make an appointment.

Get smart about the signs you need to bite the bullet and get your wisdom teeth removed

Are your gums sore or bleeding in the back? Does that area of your jaw hurt? Is there pressure, a dull ache or a throbbing pain? Do you have a bad taste in your mouth even when you’re not eating, or bad breath? Are you struggling to clean your very back toothy pegs?

It sounds like your wisdom teeth are trying to make their debut. But that aloof wisdom tooth may not be here to play nicely.

And you may be wondering, What’s the best age to get my wisdom teeth removed?

Tooth extractions can be a little scary when you don’t know what to expect. You’ve probably heard stories from workmates or family members about wisdom teeth the size of small countries and roots wrapped around rib bones. Then again, they always did have a bit of a reputation for exaggerating.

What you’re experiencing may be a sign your wisdom tooth needs to come out. Here’s what to look out for, along with a sensible guide of what to expect during a wisdom tooth extraction.

Why do wisdom teeth need pulling?

Scientists believe wisdom teeth eruption is related to when we chewed on mammoth bones. We needed a third set of molars due to our prehistoric diet wearing away our first molars. But over millions of years our jaws and teeth have changed, and these days we’re now less Neanderthal and more TikTokable.

When it comes to molars, our smaller jaws and modern diets can mean two’s company but three’s a crowd. There simply isn’t enough room for the third set of molars to come through, at least for some people.

Potential wisdom tooth problems 

• Impaction – the tooth is stuck behind another tooth and can’t emerge.
• Part-eruption – your gum partly covers the tooth.
• Misalignment – the crowding makes your tooth erupt at an odd angle.
• Infection – crowded wisdom teeth are more prone to infections of the gum, and even the jawbone. A fluid-filled sac may also form at the base of the tooth. And the combination of this sac and the infection can lead to issues with the surrounding teeth or bone structure.
• Decay – that odd angle or “peek-a-boo” partially erupted tooth makes dental hygiene difficult. It’s hard to brush and floss effectively, and may result in more decay.

Wisdom teeth removal – what’s the best age to have it done?

Well, how long is a piece of string (attached to your wisdom tooth and the doorknob)? No seriously, don’t do that.

The first thing to know is that not all wisdom teeth need to come out. Many people have plenty of space, and so they and their wisdom teeth become lifelong friends.

But what if your back chompers give you grief, or when x-rayed look like they’ll be part of the naughty chew crew? Well, we prefer to remove them when you’re younger. Most patients for wisdom tooth removal have them appearing between the ages of 18 and 25. At this age, your ability to heal is much better. And because your wisdom teeth may not have finished growing their roots, it can be easier for the dental team to remove them. 

That’s not to say we can’t extract your wisdom teeth later. However, the longer they’re around, the more time that naughty back row has to cause wisdom teeth grief. And chances are you’ll also need more time to recover.

Signs your wisdom teeth need to come out

Here are a few indicators your third set of molars might be better under the pillow for the tooth fairy. 

• Jaw ache, throbbing or pressure.
• Gum pain, swelling or redness.
• Gum infection.
• Decay to wisdom tooth or adjoining molar.
• Cheek abrasion, or difficulty chewing food.
• Bad breath, or a foul taste in the mouth. (And we’re not talking tempura chicken here.)

Sometimes you need someone with superpowers to identify wisdom tooth problems. We have x-ray vision… okay, we take x-rays and then use our vision to see what’s happening. But all jokes aside, an x-ray may be the first sign your wisdom teeth will be naughty. 

How are wisdom teeth removed?

It’s WTE day – wisdom tooth extraction day. And hey, we get that you’re nervous. So, here’s a step-by-step walkthrough of how we say bye-bye to a wisdom tooth. 

First, rest assured we’ve had a good look at the x-rays and planned the extraction. Assuming we didn’t need to refer you to an oral surgeon due to a complex extraction, we’re now ready to remove that wisdom tooth (or teeth).

Wisdom tooth extraction

Step 1: We numb your gum and tooth with a local anaesthetic. Yes it’s a needle, but we use numbing gel first to make the area comfortable.

Step 2: Chat about the Yeppoon weather or surf conditions while we wait for everything to numb completely.

Step 3: Now we can’t give you a safe word because you’ll have a few tools in your mouth. So we discuss the hand signal you can use to get us to stop immediately.

Step 4: We test whether the anaesthetic has numbed the area. You’ll feel a fair amount of pressure, but no pain.

Step 5: We loosen the tooth in its socket using a lever called an elevator. You’ll feel downward or upward pressure.

Step 6: We grasp the tooth with extraction forceps and move it from side to side.

Step 7: You may hear some odd noises—a pop, a slight snapping or a crunchy sound. These are all normal, but they sound worse because your ears are so close to the action. You may also hear the dental drill to help remove the tooth.

Step 8: We use forceps to grab the tooth and pull it out.

Step 9: We’ll place a gauze wad over the socket, and ask you to bite on it.

Step 10: You’ll taste some blood in your mouth. But the bleeding will reduce quickly as the gauze helps form a blood clot in the socket.

Surgical extractions (for complicated wisdom teeth scenarios) are more involved. Surgical extraction can happen in the dental chair, or may involve a general anaesthetic in a hospital. If you need one we’ll discuss the procedure in depth with you. (Unless you’re a little queasy and would prefer not to know anything about it, in which case that’s fine too.)

Recovering from wisdom tooth extraction

Like all tooth extractions, recovering from a wisdom tooth extraction is generally straightforward.

Here are a few pointers to help with your recovery.

• Most patients recover in a week, although the socket and gum will still feel slightly different for a few more weeks.
• It’s common to have some pain. Your dentist will discuss pain relief options with you before you leave the practice so you can keep on top of the discomfort.
• Expect some swelling, and possibly some bruising. Use an ice pack wrapped in cloth for the first 24 hours.
• There will be a hole in your gum, and you’ll taste some blood. Avoid sticking your tongue or finger in the extraction site.

Here are more post-extraction tips about food, drink and hygiene: A quick guide to surviving your tooth extraction.

How much does it cost to get wisdom teeth removed in Queensland?

Good question.

Without seeing your x-rays, it’s hard to give you a price. There are many variables and options, including:

• simple versus surgical extraction
• in-chair versus in-hospital
• Farnborough versus Kemp surf breaks. (Sorry. That option’s probably just for me.) 

At Keppel Dental, wisdom teeth extractions generally range from $310-$550. There are extra costs for in-hospital treatment, which can include paying for the hospital room and the anaesthetist, and having the extraction completed under general anaesthetic. 

While we can’t give you the price of a hospital-based extraction, we are happy to give you a written quote if we can remove your wisdom tooth in our practice. We’ll tell you at your consultation so there are no nasty surprises on WTE day.

Get smart about removing your wisdom teeth

So, having read this, do you think you need to get your wisdom teeth removed? The first step is to see your dentist. If you’re in the Yeppoon or Rockhampton area, you can visit us. Make an appointment.