For most people wisdom teeth come through in the latter stages of their teen years. If wisdom teeth only partially emerge or become trapped beneath the gumline, they will require treatment from your dentist.

Key takeaways:

• In human evolution, the jaw has become smaller over time and often there is not be enough room for a wisdom tooth to come through properly.
• Being hard to clean, a partially erupted tooth can lead to an infection which is why it is vital it is assessed by a dentist.
• Extraction is often the only option, but this is a straightforward procedure which should cause minimal discomfort.

“Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection. For some people, impacted wisdom teeth may “push” against the neighbouring teeth, affecting tooth alignment.”

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Plaque is a combination of saliva, food debris and bacteria. If left to build-up, it can form a hard substance called tartar. Plaque and tartar can damage teeth and gums, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.

Key takeaways:

– Brush and floss twice a day to help remove plaque.

– Tartar needs to be removed professionally by a dentist.

– Bad breath can also be a sign that plaque is building up. 

Regular dental check-ups can prevent plaque build-up and damage to your teeth.

“Even with regular brushing and flossing, plaque can still affect your smile.”

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A dentist will often suggest a dental implant as a remedy for broken or missing teeth but, in certain cases, there is the option of using mini dental implants. As with full implants, the dentist will need to ascertain there is sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implant. Once this has been confirmed mini implants offer several advantages over the full version:

• Less invasive surgery required

• More suitable for smaller teeth

• Lower cost

Because mini implants do not require a screw drilled down into your jaw, healing is much faster than with full implants and you can find out more at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/what-exactly-are-mini-dental-implants/

Many parents often find themselves conflicted when it comes to the loose baby tooth topic. Some parents think it’s okay to extract the tooth while others trust the dentist’s hands more. But what do the professionals say?

Key takeaway:

• Pulling a loose tooth at home may cause pain, excessive bleeding and infections.

• Ask your child to gently wiggle their loose tooth with their tongue.

• The safest way of pulling a loose tooth is having it extracted by a dentist.

Unless your dentist tells you otherwise, it’s best to leave your child’s loose teeth alone.

For more, read here https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/can-you-pull-your-childs-loose-teeth-or-should-they-fall-out-naturally

If dental anxiety is preventing you from getting the help that you need, then sedation dentistry might be just the perfect solution for you. But what exactly is sedation dentistry? Here’s everything you need to know.

Key takeaway:

There are different types of sedation including nitrous oxide, oral sedation, moderate sedation and general anaesthesia.

All types of sedation dentistry are safe for your general well-being and teeth.

Light sedation is all you need to ease dental anxiety; you’ll be comfortable yet awake during exams and procedures, and can drive home afterward.

Talk to your dentist about your anxieties, so you can get treatment you need to keep teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.

Read more at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/is-sedation-dentistry-safe/

For anyone contemplating getting their unsightly silver amalgam fillings replaced with tooth-coloured ones there are a few things to note:

– The dentist will only recommend fillings are replaced if they are damaged, for instance, chipped, cracked or worn.

– Composite resin fillings are much better for your teeth than amalgam fillings as less of your teeth needs to be removed and they bond to your tooth making it stronger.

– Composite resin fillings are tooth-coloured and barely visible, increasing your confidence when you smile.

“Your dentist can help you determine if there’s a reason to replace your silver filling.”

Read the full story here: https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/should-silver-fillings-be-replaced-with-tooth-colored-fillings/

People who get dental implants are typically very satisfied with how they look and function. However, it’s important to realise that the implants require proper care to avoid a complication called peri-implantitis:

– This condition occurs when the gum around the implant becomes inflamed; symptoms include tenderness, pain or bleeding around the implant or even a loose implant.

– The dentist will only allow suitable candidates to receive dental implants to minimise any complications.

– The risk of getting peri-implantitis can be reduced by practising good oral hygiene and quitting smoking.

With regular visits to your dentist following your dental implant procedure, you can ensure that peri-implantitis isn’t an issue.

Read the full story here: https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/what-is-peri-implantitis/

Early oral examinations are a key step in keeping your child’s teeth and gums healthy. Parents should look for a child-friendly dentist, and prepare the child so they know what to expect. 

Also, remember to speak positively about the appointment– and put your own fears aside, as children can too easily sense them. Playing “a trip to the dentist” can help put your child at ease.

Here’s what you need to know about your child’s first dental appointment.

Key takeaways:

• These appointments usually lasts 30 to 45 minutes. It’s best to book them in the morning, when your child is rested.
• The dentist will examine teeth, gums, and jaws, and will check for bite issues.
• A gentle cleaning and X-rays may be required.

The dentist will also explain the best brushing and flossing techniques for children.

Read the full story here: https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/preparing-your-child-for-their-first-dental-appointment/ 

Too many sugary treats, over time, can lead to serious health problems including diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. But how can you control your sugar cravings? Well, keep reading to learn more.

Key takeaways:

• Eat fruit to nourish your body with natural sugars.
• Chew sugarless gum to tame sugar cravings and protect your teeth from cavities.
• Distract yourself when sugar cravings hit; take a walk or a jog, for example.
• Make a list of all your triggers and how you can safely avoid them.

Remember to stay hydrated and visit your dentist for your regular dental checkup to prevent complications like cavities.

Read the full story here

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/top-tips-to-fight-sugar-cravings/