Got A Chipped Tooth?
A trip, a fall, biting into a harder than you expected apple, even knocking your tooth a bit too hard on a coffee mug can all quite easily result in a chipped tooth...
It's Now an Easy Fix, Here’s How
It's not hard to chip a tooth. In fact it's a lot easier than you might think. A trip, a fall, biting into a harder than you expected apple, even knocking your tooth a bit too hard on a coffee mug can all quite easily result in a chipped tooth.
The aesthetic effect is what upsets many people most. All that time spent brushing and flossing, going for regular dental checkups and doing just what the dentist said in order to get the best smile possible is now, in their minds, ruined because of a Granny Smith that was more like a rock than a healthy addition to their diet.
But there are other reasons why a chipped tooth can be a problem too. A chip allows bacteria to get into the tooth, where it will eventually erode away the dentine, which is a soft layer that lies directly beneath the tooth enamel. This will eventually result in the soft pulp of the tooth being compromised too, leading to cavities and tooth decay.
Dealing with a Chipped Tooth
So, by now you will have figured out that dealing with a chipped tooth, and doing so as quickly as possible, really is a must. And there is some very good news here. Advances in dental technology have made it possible for a good dentist to treat and fix a chipped tooth more effectively than ever before.
The reason for this is that these days nasty metal fillings - as fillings are often the best solution for a chipped tooth - really are a thing of the past. Today's fillings are not only more durable and somewhat easier for a dental professional to place but they are also tooth coloured.
Not tooth coloured in the way that a plaster is flesh coloured, in that the colour matches someone's flesh somewhere but certainly not yours, but in that the fillings can be mixed to match your unique tooth colour for a finished effect that is not only wonderfully durable but also pretty darn good looking as well.
The Techie Stuff
The way that dentists can do all of this is pretty impressive as well. Using a composite quartz resin - basically a really tough plastic - and a special LED light - once it's in place a filling can be hardened in about ten seconds and within minutes you and your newly repaired tooth will basically be good to go. The new part of the tooth can be brushed and cared for usual and it will be as tough as the 'real' tooth it replaced. Don't forget we're always here after hours during the Christmas season to help you out.
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
We get more incidents of chipped teeth during the December January silly season than any other time. Watch yourself at those christmas parties, new years parties and sprints across the hot sand or cement at the beach ;)
Top 5 Summer Sports for Sydney Kids
What's the best way to keep the kids occupied in the summer, especially during the long school holiday? We have some answers for you...
Get Stuck In To These
It's an age old question and one that still needs to be answered even in the era of endless video games; what's the best way to keep the kids occupied in the summer, especially during the long school holiday? We have some answers for you.
The Benefits of Organised Sports for Sydney Kids
While you could, technically, let them stay up in their room fighting electronic soldiers/aliens/super-villains all day or watch TV until their eyes take on a squarish shape. However, it is the summer, this is Sydney and the best place for them to be, at least some of the time, is outside and soaking up all of that great-for-them Vitamin D and the best thing for them to be doing is staying active.
Sydney in the summer offers all kinds of outdoor fun for kids and some of the best of it comes in the form of organised sports. According to the experts even little kids can benefit from the physical, mental and confidence boosts that taking part in them can offer, as well as the fun of course.
But just what sport should your kids give a try this summer if they have no plans yet? Here's a look at our personal Top 5 Summer Sports for Kids.
Nippers/Swimming
There’s a lot of water surrounding us here in Sydney and the beach and ocean are a big part of most of our lives in the summer. This means that water safety has to be too. And when it comes to the littlest water babies, Nippers is not only a great way for them to develop the basic skills they need to be safe in the water but also to learn how much fun it can be.
Nippers classes offer children aged 5-13 the chance to learn to swim, how to stay safe in the water, how to help someone else in danger and even how to body board and dolphin dive. Add to that the fact that they’ll also be getting one of the best all-round forms of exercise there is so it’s a win-win for everyone.
Cricket
Summer and cricket in Australia go together like nothing else. But why just let your kids settle for watching on telly and dreaming about becoming the next Steve Smith or Meg Lanning when they can go out there and give it a try themselves? And even if they don’t quite make it to The Sydney Cricket Ground one day the coordination and team building skills, and general cricket know how, it will give them will be invaluable in life.
Tennis
Every summer in January the eyes of the world’s tennis fans turn to Oz as the Australian Open gets the Grand Slam season under way. So what better time than the summer to introduce kids of all ages to the joys of the game? It’s another great hand eye coordination builder, great exercise and a fantastic confidence booster. And if you happen to find you’ve got the next Sam Stosur or Lleyton Hewitt on your hands us Aussie tennis fans aren’t going to complain are we?
Sailing
Your kids don’t have to be in the water to have fun on it. And as home to one of the most iconic harbours on the planet, sailing is certainly in Sydney’s blood. While it’s not perhaps the kids summer sport that spring to mind first, there are some great programs out there, especially those run by Yachting Australia, that teach young kids the basics of what really is a very exciting sport.
Cycling
Finally, here’s a sport the whole family can enjoy together this summer, no matter what their age or general fitness level. All you really need to enjoy a spot of summer cycling with the kids are some good bikes, great helmets and a nice stretch of open road. If your kids want to try something a little more challenging though there’s always the option of finding them classes and clubs to join in with mountain biking, BMX and maybe even motocross activities.
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
Sydney in Summertime is always an adventure. If you find yourself needing after hours emergency dental care we're always here!
Does a Toothache Always Equal an Extraction?
Does toothache equal extraction automatically? The answer is a little more complicated than you might think...
Here's The Rundown
You've been up half the night thanks to the pain from that nagging aching tooth. Come to think of it, you were up half of the night before as well. Painkillers from the local chemists aren't even touching the pain anymore and you know you really should book an appointment with a dentist ASAP. But you don't like needles and pain, you're not even that fond of dentists and you really don't want to go through a tooth extraction. So you're stalling...
But does toothache equal extraction automatically? The answer is a little more complicated than you might think...
What's Causing the Pain?
Before you start ringing around dentists in Sydney asking about tooth extraction pricing it's important to understand one thing; tooth pain has lots of different causes and they don't all mean that the first thing a dentist is going to want to do is yank the offending tooth out. In fact, it's probably the last thing they want to do as they actually spent all of those years in dental school learning to save teeth rather than just do extraction after extraction.
Alternatives to Tooth Extraction
Because there are lots of different reasons a tooth might be giving you trouble, there are also lots of ways to treat these problems. If a cavity is the culprit then a simple filling may be the answer. If it's actually a gum infection - something that's more common than you might think - then a good deep cleaning and a course of antibiotics often works wonders. A tooth extraction is not even the automatic recommendation when the pain involves wisdom teeth, whatever you might have been told. And the pain may not really even be coming from a tooth at all.
Getting to the Root of the Problem
As we mentioned, the real key to getting to the root of the problem when it comes to a toothache is a careful, considered dental examination. This will often involve taking x-rays and a chat about your past dental history as well as a routine exam. Only then can a dentist figure out what's really going on and present a patient with their treatment recommendations and options.
Isn't It Just Easier to Get a Bad Tooth Out?
In some cases, the problem that's really been causing a nasty toothache may come along with several different possible treatments options and yes, one of them might be extraction and that may sound like it's the quickest, easiest and possibly least expensive way to go.
However, before you choose that option based on time or money, listen carefully to what your dentist as to say. Every tooth in your head is there for a reason, even those pesky wisdom teeth, and if it's no longer there may very well be downsides you don't really won't 'get' until it's too late and the tooth is gone for good.
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
Don't automatically assume that an aching tooth is one that's going to have to come out. Give us a ring, come in for an appointment after hours, or when needed, and we'll work out the best course of treatment for you and your tooth.
Don't forget to checkout our Dental Emergency Care Tips if you're experiencing discomfort.
15 Fascinating & Fabulous Smile Facts
There are lots of things that a simple smile can do, and helping you cheer yourself up is just one of them...
'Aw, give us a smile'
We could all do with some top smile tips right now! There are lots of things that a simple smile can do, and helping you cheer yourself up is just one of them. Don't believe us? Here are 15 fascinating facts about smiling that back the theory up:
1. Mood Lifter Even a forced smile can boost your mood - In a funk? Psychologists agree that even though it might be totally fake, forcing a smile can be an instant mood booster.
2. Born With It We're all born with the ability to smile - Most of the things that babies learn to do they pick up from others in their new world as they go along. Smiling - like crying - is not one of those things though, we are all born with the ability to smile. Want some proof? Even blind babies smile.
3. Practice Them All There are, apparently, 19 different 'types' of human smile - According to research done at the University of San Francisco in the States (yes, someone got paid to do this), there are 19 different types of smile that a human can contort their face into, ranging from the slightly terse, polite 'social smiles' (the ones that the Queen is very good at) to the more genuine 'felt' smiles that use far more muscles.
4. Ladies vs Gents Ladies smile more than gents - According to researchers this habit begins at birth. Girls will smile more and make more eye contact as babies and in general this continues throughout life. The one exception? When people are performing the same task or job, then they tend to smile in equal measure.
5. General Health Smiling can make you healthier - Smiling can help relieve stress and lower the blood pressure. Or at least that's what researchers say.
6. Colds Smiling can ward off a cold - Well, sort of. Smiling has been shown to boost the immune system, something that should help keep the sniffles at bay.
7. Pass It On Smiling is contagious - You know yourself it's hard to stay grumpy if those around you are grinning from ear to ear. Science backs this up too, as research has found that even when people are asked to try and not smile around other happy folk their muscles twitch into a smirk by themselves.
8. For The Ladies Smiling Attracts More Blokes than Makeup - Listen up ladies. According to a study commissioned by Orbit (the chewing gum folks) 69% of those surveyed found women more attractive when bare faced and smiling than when made up to the nines.
9. For The Guys Smiling Attracts More Women Too Guys - The people questioned for that survey were both male and female. And women also put a great smile very near the top of their lists of things they found attractive in men.
10. Face Workout Smiling uses between 5 and 53 muscles, according to its 'depth' so a big cheesy grin can be a great facial workout.
11. Friendly Face Smiling will help you make friends - Looking to make some new friends at the beach this summer? The smile, as, according to the experts this will make you seem more approachable and friend-worthy without you even having to say a word.
12. It's Easy It's easier to smile than frown - Smiling uses fewer muscles and takes less effort than it does to frown. You'll get fewer wrinkles if you smile more and frown less too.
13. Job Success Smiling will help your career - Want to score a promotion at work? Get smiling more often, as its been shown that smiley people have better career prospects than grumpy ones.
14. Invisible Smiles You can hear a smile - If you've ever worked as a phone rep chances are that the boss always told you to smile as you speak, even though the person on the end of the line can't see you. Why? Because science has found that smiles can also be 'heard' and if you smile while speaking it will aurally 'translate' into a friendlier, more trustworthy, tone.
15. Universal Smiling is universally recognised - While handshakes and hugs can mean different things in different cultures, a smile is a universally recognisable sign of happiness that is understood in any language.
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
All of this is great, but don't forget it's summer in Sydney, Bondi Beach is beckoning and there's a cold one waiting with your name on it. How can you not smile at the thought of all that?
Stop the Ouch! Brain Freeze Explained
Spring has well and truly landed in Sydney and there's a lot to look forward to, including all of those delicious warm weather treats you've been missing all winter long...
The Cause of 'Brain Freeze' and How To Get Rid of It!
Spring has well and truly landed in Sydney and there's a lot to look forward to, including all of those delicious warm weather treats you've been missing all winter long. Once the weather begins to warm up most of us can be easily tempted by a nice big ice cream cone, a big bowl of frozen yogurt or a long, tall, cool milkshake. And a cold soft-drink - or the occasional very cold beer or frozen frothy cocktail - is a must when the sun comes back out to play.
However wonderful all of these treats are however they can have a rather painful downside; brain freeze. That terrible feeling when, for a minute or so, your icy indulgence results in a headache so intense that it really does feel like your brain froze. But what is it that causes this pain and what can you do to prevent it?
What Causes Brain Freeze in the First Place?
Brain freeze - that does, by the way, have a real scientific name, sphenopalatine ganglioneuralgia - is, in very basic terms, a reaction between the blood vessels in the roof of your mouth and your brain. You see your mouth is mouth is highly vascularised, meaning that there are an awful lot of blood vessels at work in there. Among them, at the back of the throat, are two very important ones; the internal carotid artery, which is what gets blood to your brain, and the anterior cerebral artery, which sits right where your brain tissue starts.
So, basically, it's an area that the brain feels it is very important to protect. Introduce a sudden rush of cold and sometimes the brain literally thinks you are going to freeze to death. As a protective measure those arteries then contract very quickly, causing that sudden, stabbing pain that is so very unpleasant. Within a minute or so the brain does realise its mistake and everything goes back to normal, but boy does it hurt until then.
Effective Ways to Stop Brain Freeze
There are several things you can try in order to save yourself from unnecessary suffering when enjoying cold treats:
Eat or drink cold items slowly. Yes that frozen margarita looks amazing but you don't have to guzzle it all down in three gulps.
Take smaller bites/sips and let the food/drink warm a little in your mouth before you swallow it.
Nix the straw. Yes, your milkshake came with a stripy straw that's very cute and stuff but where possible avoid using it. Drinking an ice cold milkshake through a straw delivers the cold right to the back of your throat instantly, just where you don't want it to go.
If you do find yourself in the throes of a brain freeze, press your tongue against the roof of your mouth to warm things back up more quickly.
Another way to speed up your 'recovery' from a brain freeze is to cup your hands over your nose and mouth and breathe into the 'cup', the same way as you might do on a very cold morning.
Give up all frozen drinks, treats and desserts and drink lattes and eat beef stew all spring and summer long (just kidding, we know that's a bit nuts)
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
Bring on the good weather and the brain freezes! We recommend TIP 4.
The Paleo Diet vs Oral Health
Does following a Paleo diet lead to tooth decay or other oral health problems or does it prevent these things?
Can Eating Like a Caveman Cure Tooth Decay? The Paleo Diet vs Oral Health
By now you've probably heard at least a little bit about the Paleo Diet. It's a diet plan that began, as many of these things do, over in The States, 'pioneered' by Dr. Loren Cordain, a historian by original trade. The idea is that you alter your diet to make it more like one that Stone Age people may have eaten and this, the theory goes, is a far healthier way to eat than 'modern people' are generally used to doing.
Whether or not the Paleo Diet is a good thing or another crazy fad is not something we are really going to get into too far. The 'movement' has its fans and its critics and even noted medical professionals can't quite agree whether eating like a caveman (cave person) is really that good for you. What we do want to get into however, is the question of does following a Paleo diet lead to tooth decay or other oral health problems or does it prevent these things?
Paleo Diet Basics
OK, so the Paleo Diet says you'll be eating like your distant, distant, distant ancestors. But what does that actually mean? In general, apparently that means a diet that's high in fat, moderate in animal protein and low to moderate in carbohydrates. And as few 'over-processed' food items as possible. Calorie counting is not encouraged, neither is strict portion control. Oh and there is no dairy allowed and bread of any kind (actually all grains in general, as caveman supposedly did not have them) is right out too.
Paleo and Your Teeth
So you think you're ready to ditch sandwiches, soda and dairy and give this Paleo stuff a try. But what is the change going to do to your teeth? Well, in some ways chances are that it can only be a good thing. As the diet emphasizes eating far less sugar, then in terms of basic dental health and cavity prevention it has to be a plus.
One potential downside of the Paleo diet as far as your teeth are concerned however is the lack of dairy. You've probably been told since you were a little kid that milk builds strong bones and teeth and research has proved again and again that yes, calcium does build stronger teeth and they are teeth that you are likely to hold onto longer as well. This does not necessarily rule out the Paleo diet though, you'll just need to make sure you eat plenty of nondairy, 'Paleo- Friendly' sources of calcium like broccoli, edamame, salmon (even the canned stuff is OK) and tofu if you still want the stronger teeth (and bones) boost that calcium offers.
The Tooth Decay Cure Claim
lAs is the case for almost every trendy diet plan, there are a lot of wild claims made about the benefits of the Paleo Diet and one is that it can 'cure' tooth decay. The simple answer to this is no, it can't. The diet may cut out some of the things that can cause tooth decay - like all of those added sugars - but only proper oral hygiene and getting regular dental checkups will do that. So go ahead and eat like a caveman if you like, but understand that proper dental care is a must for everyone, even those eating the VERY old-fashioned d way.
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
Whether you prefer a cheese sandwich and a big glass of milk or grass fed beef and broccoli rabe for lunch, everyone needs proper dental care and they need it for life, whether their current diet is based in the 21st century or it's from 10,000 years ago.
What You Need to Know About Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
If you suffer from facial pain, jaw pain, migraines or even the occasional 'jaw lock’ then you may have had it suggested to you that you are suffering from TMJ...
TMD 101: What You Need to Know About Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
If you suffer from facial pain, jaw pain, migraines or even the occasional 'jaw lock’ then you may have had it suggested to you that you are suffering from TMJ. Or TMD. But the question is which one might it be and what are these conditions anyway?
MJ vs. TMD - Which is Correct?
When various people discuss the symptoms we just described above, they might use the terms TMJ and TMD interchangeably. In fact that happens quite often, but it's actually a mistake, as they are two different things.
TMJ is the abbreviation for temporomandibular joint, the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw to the temporal bone of the skull and it's located right in front of your ear. TMD on the other hand, stands for temporomandibular joint disorder, a blanket term for the problems with the joint a person might develop. So TMD is the correct term, but if you are suffering then the chances are that you really don't care too much about all of this, you just want to know why you are in pain and how to make it stop!
TMD Causes and Symptoms
TMD symptoms vary from person to person, as does their severity. Some of them - facial pain, pain when 'opening up wide', a 'tired' feeling in your face and especially a jaw that 'locks - are all symptoms that can be fairly easily recognised as TMD. Others -like toothaches, headaches, facial swelling, dizziness and hearing problems - can have a number of other causes as well, so are not immediately connected to TMD .
If you are diagnosed with TMD, just what might have caused it? Traumatic injury can do it, as can a habit of grinding your teeth. In some, osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may be at work and stress can even be a trigger for TMD as those who are 'stressed out' do develop a tendency to over-tighten their facial and jaw muscles and clench their teeth, putting undue pressure on the temporomandibular joint.
Treating TMD
The obvious first step in the successful treatment of TMD for anyone is a proper diagnosis. While you may have diagnosed yourself while consulting with Dr. Google, only a dentist familiar with TMD can tell you for sure.
Once a diagnosis is made, many experts prefer to follow a conservative course of treatment initially. This is because after a patient has been educated about some simple habit and lifestyle changes - things like avoiding very hard foods, relieving pain with icepacks, changing sleeping habits etc. - the condition improves on its own. However, for those not so lucky other treatments, including medications, splints, acupuncture and even surgery, are indicated.
The Locked Jaw Emergency
For most people who suffer from TMD is painful, it’s annoying and can be rather limiting, but they can, for the most part, live with the problem as their treatments begin to take effect. However, if their TMD leads to a locked jaw it's a bit of a different story. It's very scary when you just can't open your mouth and it's hugely uncomfortable - and often painful - too. In this situation waiting until Monday, or even until the morning, to get help really isn't an option. This is one of those times when it's best to seek immediate care from an emergency dentist who will be able to start working on 'unlocking' that troublesome jaw right away.
The #EmergencyDentist Says
Whether you have already been diagnosed with TMD or you just suspect that it may be causing your symptoms, a locked jaw is a problem that needs to be addressed right away, even if a less than helpful pal thinks it's rather funny (or cool) that you suddenly can't even utter a word!
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Sudden Tooth Pain: The Complete List of Causes & Treatments
Brain Freeze! We are all prone to occasional aches and pains that any kind of tooth pain can be particularly bothersome...
Diagnosing What's Causing It.. And Making it Stop!
Brain Freeze! We are all prone to occasional aches and pains, but it's fair to say, we think, that any kind of tooth pain can be particularly bothersome (to say the least.) Like a headache that just won't go away, tooth pain can be truly miserable and the problem's only made worse by the fact that much of the time you can't even be sure why you are in pain or how to begin treat it.
There are, in fact, all kinds of reasons that a tooth (or teeth) may start giving you gip, but these are the ones most commonly seen at Emergency Dentist Sydney:
Pain after Eating or Drinking Very Cold - of Very Hot - Foods
This can be the kind of sharp pain that really knocks you for six, if only for a minute or so. But it keeps happening and all the joy of eating an ice cream or downing a morning cup of Joe is fading fast.
The problem here is often is what the toothpaste ads often refer to as 'sensitive teeth'. There can be all kinds of causes; a slightly exposed nerve, a forming cavity, weakened tooth enamel or gum damage of some kind. In the short term try switching to a softer toothbrush and trying one of the toothpastes made to help 'desensitise' teeth. If the problem is a long term one however make a not to book a dentist's appointment to discuss a better solution.
Pain When Eating or Drinking Hot and Cold Foods After Dental Work
This particular issue is not unusual, especially if you have had a root canal or a filling recently. It's a temporary sensitivity that should disappear in a few days as things begin to heal up properly. In the meantime aspirin can help and following the dentist's post treatment care instructions is a must. However, if the pain persists for longer than expected, or gets worse rather than improving, you should contact your dentist right away.
Pain When Biting on Food
Eating regular, everyday foods should never be painful. And when and if it is, the chances are good that there is a problem that needs to be addressed and probably as soon as possible. The issue may be a cracked tooth, a loose filling, a cavity or, well, it could be a number of things. In this situation make a dentist's appointment as soon as possible so that the cause of the pain can be diagnosed and treated quickly, before any further damage occurs.
Aching Pressure on Upper Teeth/Sinus Area
This one is hard to even begin to self-diagnose as pain from infected sinuses can feel like terrible upper back tooth pain and vice versa. This is because there are a bunch of shared nerves back there, so really only a doctor's visit or a trip to the dentist can determine the true cause. Whatever you do though, wherever you go first, don't wait, because this is a horrible, nagging pain that very rarely goes away on its own.
Swollen, Painful, Inflamed Gums
Gum disease is all too common and if it's not addressed early then 'simple' gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a condition in which the gums and even the bone that holds the teeth in place can be severely weakened. Often painful, swollen gums are a sign of infection, something that needs to be treated as soon as possible, not only to potentially save a tooth or two but to prevent the spread of infection through the rest of your body.
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
'Oh it's only a toothache'. Not. Tooth pain sucks. Pure and simple. It sucks even more if it strikes outside of 'business hours'. But you don't have to wait it out like a trooper just to try and be big and brave. The Emergency Dentist Sydney can help you anytime time any day when you need us.
How Much Does a Wisdom Tooth Extraction Cost?
At The Emergency Dentist Sydney we are pretty used to dealing with wisdom teeth and the trouble they can cause...
Wisdom Tooth Extractions Costs Vary: Here's Why
At The Emergency Dentist Sydney we are pretty used to dealing with wisdom teeth and the trouble they can cause. That is not always the case for the patients experiencing those problems, folks who are usually in pain, frustrated and worried, often about the costs of the treatment they might need as much as they are about the pain they're in.
Unfortunately, as helpful as we like to try and be at all times, one of the questions we really can't answer right away is what the treatment for a patient's unique wisdom tooth issues might cost, as every case is different. We can however explain why those costs might vary. Here's a look at some of the factors involved:
The Type of Procedure You Need
There is no one-size-fits-all procedure for wisdom tooth extraction. For some people it can be a pretty straightforward affair, one not too different from a standard extraction. For others though, patients who might be dealing with a severe infection or an odd angled impaction, the treatment involved is usually more complex. And yes, complex costs more.
The Type of Surgeon You Need
In dentistry, just like in standard medicine, different dental surgeons do different things. When it comes to extracting a wisdom tooth, complications can arise that call for a specialist surgeon, usually because wisdom teeth, as a part of their often very pesky nature, will sometimes locate themselves in a very sensitive area of the jawline, one where important nerves could be damaged if someone did not know exactly what they were doing. Obviously if a specialist is called in the pricing will increase, but in reality be worth every penny as a botched job on a wisdom tooth is something no-one should ever have to deal with.
The 'Little' Things
Before getting to the actual extraction of a wisdom tooth, there's usually work to be done. Dentists need x-rays - or sometimes even CT scans - so that they know exactly what is going on where. They also need to talk anaesthesia with a patient. Some of the simpler extractions can be performed very successfully under a local anaesthetic but for the more complex stuff even the bravest, toughest of patients are going to need to be knocked out, aka treated under general anaesthesia, once again hiking the final costs.
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
Fear of costs should never be a reason to leave a painful or infected wisdom tooth untreated. At The Emergency Dentist Sydney we keep our rates as reasonable as possible and won't charge for 'bells and whistles' you don't need. Another reason to get treated as soon as a wisdom tooth problem rears its ugly head? The whole think is likely to be easier - and cheaper - than it would be if you suffer on for weeks until you can't take any more!
The 'Green Food Diet'
After 10 plus years in dentistry we know prevention is the best medicine. In fact, what we do or don't eat can be very important when it comes to your smile...
Our Top 7 Green Foods For Good Health
At The Emergency Dentist Sydney we believe in holistic oral health care. General daily care, such as brushing and flossing, go a long way to your overall oral health but there's a lot more you can do to ensure a healthy smile. After 10 plus years in dentistry we know prevention is the best medicine. In fact, what we do or don't eat can be very important when it comes to your smile.
So, we say scrap the White Food Diet, green is the new white this St Patrick's Day. We have our top 7 picks for the most super duper green foods to keep your oral health and general health looking as good as your four year old self the first time you found a four leaf clover.
1. Green Tea
We recommend a good cup of green tea after any meal. Green tea is great for controlling bacteria in your saliva and lowering the level of acidity in it, which can cause cavities. It's also works great as an anti-inflammatory which is particularly useful in the control of periodontal (gum) disease. To top off green tea as a great choice for your oral health, it is also associated with good breath! We believe this is likely because the microbes that make our breath bad are broken down by the tea.
2. Snap Peas & Green Beans
The high fibre content of these crisp green vegetables help scrub your teeth, which breaks up the biofilm and plaque buildup on your teeth. This all happens while you chew, mimicking a toothbrush or flossing. The extra effort you put in to chewing these veggies speeds up saliva production, which keeps your teeth strong and helps digest your food. Overall, a great snack to help boost your smile.
3. Kiwi Fruit
Kiwi fruit has the highest concentration of vitamin C (along with strawberries). Vitamin C helps to prevent collagen in your gum tissue from breaking down and without collagen your gums become tender and open to disease and infection, such as periodontal (gum) disease. They're also a yummy fruit snack too.
4. Green Apples
One of your oral health's best friends. Green apples are a water rich food which stimulate saliva production and and keep your oral bacteria looking pretty good. Not only that, green apples are also a high fibre food which create a brushing or scrubbing effect when biting. This quite literally cleanses the surface of your teeth as you eat, wiping away bacteria. Ahh that fresh feeling after eating a green apple.
5. Celery
Similar to the kiwi fruit, celery is packed with Vitamin C. It's great to help fight against inflammation of your gums. The texture of the celery stick is also another great green food that acts as a mother nature's brush, cleaning your teeth as you chew.
6. Broccoli
Broccoli does two great things for your teeth, whiten and protect. A bad cook will serve you over cooked broccoli, boiled for too long. The key to this vegetable is to steam it. This cooks it just long enough for the florets (they're the dark green tops) to heat but also retain all of their vitamins. Broccoli contains vitamin C (see Kiwi Fruit), vitamin E, which helps aid the body in healing and has a good source of vitamin b2 and calcium, which help keep your teeth strong and white.
7. Avo
Who doesn't love an avo! Avocado's are great for helping your body absorb all of the good nutrients you need from all foods to help maintain good overall health. Not only that but they contain a great level of calcium, helping your teeth strong and vitamin B6, another essential nutrient which is good for your overall oral health.
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
We always recommend a well balanced healthy diet full of a variety of foods. If you're planning on celebrating St Patrick's Day this year have a Guiness on us and remember The #Emergency Dentist Sydney is always open for dental emergencies.
Keep Your Family Hydrated This Summer
We know how to take care of our skin but can’t forget to keep your kids hydrated...
Keep Your Family Hydrated This Summer
With summer holidays already here we should be taking extra precautions for our little ones as the temperatures sizzle, especially following the sugary festive season. We know how to take care of our skin but can’t forget to keep your kids hydrated!
Did you know that good hydration is vital in maintaining healthy teeth? We’ve got some tooth friendly tips on keeping your children hydrated this summer.
1. Drink mostly water
Sports drinks, soft drink, and juice are all packed full of sugar (we’ve said this before - sugar is the enemy!), which will only dehydrate the munchkins even further. Water is by far the best option, and it is definitely the cheapest!
2. Use straws and drink bottles
Make drinking water fun with special straws. Even adults can’t deny silly straws are fun! There are lots that go round and round, or do squiggly shapes, or really really long ones that kids will love. Otherwise let them pick a fun, bright water bottle.
3. Make it exciting
If your kids find plain water too boring, you may be tempted to try adding fresh or frozen fruit to their water or even freezing the fruit in the ice-cube tray to make colourful ice-cubes. Whilst this is a fun way to get kids to drink more water it must be kept in mind that fruit still contains sugar and acid and if sipped on throughout the day will contribute to tooth decay.
4. Eat hydrating fruit
Some fruits like bananas and watermelon are very high in water content and are great source of liquid. Keep your watermelon in the fridge, so it’s nice and cold – the perfect refreshing snack! Mmm Mmm
5. Make water readily available
Children will drink when they’re thirsty if there is a drink available. Make sure water bottles are easy to open and within easy reach for kids, and make sure you always pack a water bottle when heading outside. Don’t forget to keep kids hydrated when you’re playing in the backyard, at the beach, or simply catching up with friends.
6. Parents; Set a good example
Teach your kids the importance of drinking water by setting a good example, and keep your hydration levels up. You might want to take regular water breaks together, or try matching water bottles.
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
Getting your kids to drink more water comes down to availability and appeal! Make fresh water available at all times, make it part of your families daily habits. Add ice cubes, fill a special cup with it, add fruit (in moderation)… whatever works.
What Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self?
When it comes to dental care and oral hygiene we know now how important it is to begin good habits from a young age...
What Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self?
At the Emergency Dentist Sydney we got to talking about our habits as children and what we might say to our younger selves. When it comes to dental care and oral hygiene we know now how important it is to begin good habits from a young age. Not everyone is knowledgable on the effects of poor oral hygiene on quality of life in your later years.
Toothache or pain and loss of teeth, resulting in the inability to chew comfortably can lead to malnutrition, weight loss, weakening of the immune system and infection. As we age we notice the obvious stuff like wrinkles and hair loss but we may not be as aware of changes in our teeth and mouths.
We asked ourselves the question, what advice would you give your younger self about oral hygiene and dental care? These are our top responses:
- Don’t smoke, if you do, stop, yuk!
- Stick to the food pyramid when it comes to eating. Eat a variety of food, eat food which is full of vitamins, minerals and fibres and get lots of variety where you can.
- Visit a dentists regularly for checkups, no excuses.
- Learn how to floss properly and do it daily.
- Brush twice daily, regardless of how tired you are at night or how busy you are in the morning.
- Rinse your mouth with water during the day when you’ve eaten processed foods, sweet foods or foods and drinks that can stain the teeth.
- Don’t put off dental problems. If you have concerns make sure you see your Dentist and avoid long-term complications.
You may think it doesn’t really matter, you can just get dentures, veneers, browns or crewed in teeth when you’re older, but this comes at some loss to your long term health.
Well looked after teeth are a reflection of your general health. Retaining your real teeth means better health long term. The American Journal of Public Health reports that ‘chewing with removable dentures is at least 30 to 40 percent less efficient than chewing with natural teeth. Persons with extensive or complete tooth loss are more likely to substitute easier-to chew foods such as those rich in saturated fast and cholesterol for foods high in carotenes, vitamin C and fibre’. Poorly looked after gums also comes with an array of long term side effects.
These are a few of the more common side effects of poor oral health:
- Loss. To the structure of your jaw and face.
- Cardiovascular Disease. Bacteria from inflamed mums and periodontal disease can enter your bloodstream and travel to your arteries in the heart. This can then cause such things as heart attack or stroke resulting in an endocarditis or myocarditis.
- Dementia. Bacteria from gingivitis may enter the brain and can lead to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Respiratory Infections. The Journal of Periodontology warns gum disease can cause infections in your lungs, including pneumonia. This isn’t always an instant infection but, imagine breathing in bacteria over time from infected teeth and gums.
- Diabetic Complications. Poor oral hygiene can make it harder to control your blood sugar. This can increase the symptoms of diabetes and make them worse.
The #EmergencyDentist Says:
The the beauty of hindsight means we can see how things could be. With the knowledge of what can very well happen, we think sticking to these 7 tips will keep your oral health and your general health kicking strong in to the future.
Patient Care First
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For 15 years, we've had one mission - when Sydney has a dental emergency, Emergency Dentist Sydney is there
We're proud to celebrate 15 years of providing emergency dental services to Sydney CBD and surrounding suburbs.