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The best foods for healthy teeth and gums

Luke Christensen B.Sc (Hons) B.Dent (Hons)

Luke wants your smile to look awesome. A big fan of cosmetic dentistry, Luke embraces the latest technologies that help rebuild natural-looking smiles. He also believes a trip to the dentist should be far from dull. Putting Netflix on the ceiling, so you can watch while in the chair? Yeah, that was his idea. What a genius! Besides dentistry, Luke enjoys surfing (although he says there’s room for his skills to improve) and taking his boat out for a spot of fishing.

Qualifications: Bachelor of Dentistry (Hons) from Sydney University in 2013. Neuroscience (Hons) in 2008 and Developmental Biology Bachelor of Science in 2007 from University of Queensland Dental Interests: Cosmetic dentistry and dental implants Reasons to Smile: Tinkering with gadgets and technology. I like finding out how things work so I feel like I’m learning new skills.

The best foods for healthy teeth and gums

Tooth-friendly foods—do they exist?

We’re bombarded with facts and opinions about what we should and shouldn’t eat to stay healthy, happy, shapely and sharp. But what about foods that are healthy for our teeth and gums? Do they exist and how do they help?

Well, the good news is yes. While some foods invite cavities, others fight them. Making some simple dietary choices can help keep your teeth happy and healthy. 

Here’s the lowdown on super-good foods to support healthy teeth and gums. Yes, they taste good. Yes, you probably eat some of them already. And yes, they’re definitely dentist-approved, so help yourself.

Dairy – strengthens and protects tooth enamel

Milk, yoghurt and cheese contain calcium and phosphorus. These are essential minerals for strong enamel. They also contain a protein called casein. Casein, in cahoots with calcium and phosphorus in your saliva, puts a protective film over teeth enamel, decreasing the risk of cavities and decay. Curious about how this chemical reaction protects teeth? Check out this article from The Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice. 

Following a sugary treat or drink with a sliver of cheese helps neutralise the acid pH of your mouth and stimulate saliva production. These are two of your mouth’s natural defences against tooth decay.

Unflavoured milk is low in sugar. Drinking a small daily glass is good for your teeth. And cheese and yoghurt make perfect between-meal snacks. Following a sugary treat or drink with a sliver of cheese helps neutralise the acid pH of your mouth and stimulate saliva production. These are two of your mouth’s natural defences against tooth decay.

There’s even some suggestion that drinking milk and eating cheese to reduce the effects of acids in the mouth can restore enamel. 

Water – cleans and hydrates

Unflavoured water (sorry to burst your flavoured water bubble) helps keep teeth and gums healthy.  

Like the rest of you, your mouth needs to be hydrated to keep healthy. A hydrated mouth stimulates saliva production which neutralises acids. Saliva is 99% water and plays an essential role by diluting and eliminating sugars. It also cleans your mouth by washing away food debris from your teeth and gums. A clean mouth leaves little for cavity-causing bacteria to feed on. 

Now let’s talk, ‘antimicrobial action.’ Antimicrobial action is medi-speak for stopping (or slowing) the growth of bacteria. Saliva is your mouth’s antimicrobial action superhero. It protects teeth from cavities by:

  • balancing demineralisation/remineralisation (putting essential minerals back into your teeth) 
  • acting as a buffer against plaque acid
  • helping protect the enamel. 

And finally, a word or two about flouride. The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) found that water fluoridation can prevent tooth decay by 26%-44% in children and adolescents and about 27% in adults. In short, drinking fluoridated water reduces damage and helps repair teeth.

So when it comes to helping oral health, water is the best of all beverages.   

Crunchy fruit and vegetables – vitamin-packed plaque-scrubbers

Crisp and crunchy fruit and vegetables, such as carrots, apples, pears and celery help clean plaque off your teeth. Besides being plaque-fighters, antioxidants and vitamins (take a bow Vitamin C) in crunchy fruit and veg protect gums from cell damage and bacterial infection. Also, because these foods are crunchy, they require more chewing. The more you chew, the more acid-neutralising saliva gets made in your mouth.

However, there’s a catch with crunchy fruit and veg. Timing is (almost) everything. 

Maximise the tooth and gum cleaning benefits by crunching your celery sticks and munching your apple at the end of a meal or after you’ve eaten snack foods. Be aware that crunchy fruit and veg contain a certain level of acid, so don’t snack on them all day and don’t substitute them for brushing and flossing.

Leafy Greens – good all-round mouth protectors

Lettuce, kale, spinach, cabbage, and asparagus—all are low in natural sugar and packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, beta carotene, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron and phosphorus. These dead-set superfoods do a fine job of supporting tooth and gum health. Like crisp and crunchy vegetables, leafy greens help clean your teeth and stimulate saliva production to protect your enamel. 

Leafy greens also contain folic acid, a proven protector against periodontal disease. Folic acid supports the cells that make up the gums. A deficiency decreases your gum’s resistance to infection. Unfortunately, folic acid deficiency is the most common deficiency world-wide.

So, if you only change one thing after reading this article, make it ‘eating your leafy greens.’

High Vitamin C foods – great for gums

Vitamin C is the most frequently name-dropped health booster when you’re battling a cold. But it’s also great for your oral health. 

Vitamin C protects your gums in much the same way that it protects the rest of you—by supporting your immune system. However, you don’t need to consume excessive amounts to gain the benefits. Aim for a daily serving of:

  • fresh orange (ideally not a sugary juice)
  • a handful of chopped red pepper 
  • a cup of strawberries 
  • steamed broccoli. 

Any one of these will provide an adequate daily amount. (You will need a little more if pregnant, or post-surgery.) 

Keep in mind…

Citrus fruits, such as oranges and mandarins, are acidic. Consume these mindfully. Drink a glass of water afterwards or eat a piece of cheese. Choose fresh fruit over fruit juice, which often have high concentrations of natural (and sometimes added) sugars.

Dark chocolate – defence against early gum disease

Ever heard a dentist tell you to eat chocolate? Well, you’re about to. But not just any chocolate, only the dark, do-you-good sort.

Dark chocolate can slow tooth decay and early gum disease by reducing inflammation and stopping bacteria from turning into tooth-damaging acids.

Sugar-rich milk and white chocolate are bad for teeth. Dark chocolate, on the other hand, is a better choice.

Made mostly of cocoa, it’s less sugar-laden than milk and white chocolate. It also contains flavonoids and antioxidants. These slow tooth decay and early gum disease by reducing inflammation and stopping bacteria from producing tooth-damaging acids.

Unlike made-to-suck lollies, designed to last for minutes (or hours if you’re a particularly canny kid), dark chocolate dissolves quickly in your mouth. This means sugar isn’t lurking in the mouth for ages, doing damage to your teeth.  

Green Tea – Tooth-protecting superhero

Green tea should wear a cape emblazoned with ‘tooth superhero.’ There’s plenty of evidence for the  link between drinking green tea and oral health. 

High in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, green tea and its polyphenols can help protect against periodontal and oral diseases, such as gingivitis. However, as with most things in life, too much is…. well… too much. Find the right balance, as we explain here. 

Eating and drinking well but still getting cavities? 

What if you’re doing a lot of this already and still find your dentist telling you that you have a cavity? 

If you’re doing your best to avoid sugary foods and drinks, one of these 5 things could be causing cavities.

●      Overbrushing, either too often or too firmly, will take its toll on teeth.

●      Snacking throughout the day so your teeth never get a break from harmful bacteria.

●      Being born into a family that’s prone to having weak teeth can increase your cavity risk.

●      Vomiting, either through illness or eating disorders, increases acid in the mouth.

●      Having a dry mouth due to not drinking enough fluid or taking medication will have an impact.

Have questions about your current cavities or how to prevent new ones? Ask your dentist. They can suggest and discuss lifestyle changes which may improve your oral health. 

A balanced and healthy diet can play an important part in  looking after your teeth and gums. But it  doesn’t replace the need for good dental hygiene. No matter how many tooth superfoods you eat, establishing a good brushing routine is vital.

Ask a dentist: Answering the top 11 dental implant questions

Considering a dental implant? If you’re wondering about how implants work, how they’re fitted, if they’re worth it, and what they cost, read on.

As Keppel Dental’s lead implant and All on 4 dentist I’ve answered loads of questions about tooth implants. Here, I answer the top 11 questions that patients ask me (and Dr Google) so you have accurate, up-to-date information about dental implants, and what the treatment involves here in Australia.  

Jump to a question:

  1. What are dental implants?
  2. How long do dental implants last?
  3. Are dental implants painful?
  4. How much is a tooth implant?
  5. Can dental implants be removed?
  6. Can dental implants fail?
  7. Can dental implants be done in one day?
  8. How do dental implants work?
  9. What are full mouth dental implants?
  10. Is getting dental implants worth it?
  11. Are dental implants covered by Medicare?

Question 1: What are dental implants?

Dental implants replace one tooth or multiple teeth. Getting an implant involves placing a titanium, screw-like fitting into your jawbone. This is the implant. It works in the same way as the tooth’s natural root, anchoring the new prosthetic tooth so it stays put. 

Once the implant is fitted,we take care of the aesthetic aspect of replacing your tooth. This means milling and fitting a natural-looking ceramic crown on top of the implant so it looks and feels like your natural teeth.

Question 2: How long do dental implants last? 

Unlike dentures, tooth implants are fixed to your jaw. Implants are more secure and less likely to break or come loose. If the crown or bridge breaks your dentist can remove, repair and replace it. 

Good oral hygiene will also extend the life of dental implants. Brush twice a day, use superfloss or a Waterpik and see your dentist for regular checkups, and an implant or full mouth implants can last 10-20 years.

Question 3: Are dental implants painful?

A local anaesthetic numbs the area during the procedure, so there shouldn’t be any pain. At most, you may feel some pressure and movement. Once the treatment is complete and the anaesthetic wears off you may feel some tenderness in your gum and jaw. Your dentist will discuss pain management options with you before you leave the practice.

Question 4: How much is a tooth implant?

Australian Dental Association surveys fees regularly. The most recent data (2020) gives the lowest  price for a dental implant in Australia as $3,049 and the highest as $7,175. These costs are for a single implant.

We understand that the cost of dental implants is a major barrier for a lot of people. We would never try to hide or deny this. What we can do is help you understand why this treatment comes with the price tag it does. Our guide, Dental Implant Costs in Australia, explains it all. 

The lowest price for a dental implant in Australia is $3,049 and the highest is $7,175.
These costs are for a single implant.

Question 5: Can dental implants be removed?

Implants, whether a single tooth or full mouth All On 4, are fixed in place like natural teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, there’s no need to remove them. If there is a break or crack in the crown or bridge, then your dentist can remove, fix, and then replace it.

The only time the implant itself—the titanium screw—would ever need removing is if it fails. Failure resulting in implant removal is usually due to peri-implantitis around the implant, which is similar to gum disease. Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic and remove the screw.

Question 6: Can dental implants fail? 

Dental implants can fail, but this is rare. Studies by the Journal of Oral Implantology and BMC Oral Health have shown that only two to four percent of dental implants fail. This is considered a very low rate.

The main reasons for implant failure are:

  • a lack of pre-implant investigation such as checking for gum disease and the health of the jawbone 
  • teeth grinding, which can weaken the jawbone and affect healing
  • existing medical conditions and medications related to its management 
  • lifestyle choices such as smoking.

Successful implant placement calls for careful pre-procedure planning. At Keppel Dental, CT scans and 3D images of your mouth are taken so I can see exactly what needs doing before the implants are placed. This minimises the risk of failure.

Question 7: Can dental implants be done in one day?

The whole ‘dental implants in one-day’ spiel is a bit misleading, so it’s a yes and no answer. Here’s why. 

Dental implant treatment is a two-step process. The first step is fitting the implant screw into the jawbone. If you’re having a front tooth implant that’s visible when you talk and smile, your dentist will fit a temporary crown or denture to the implant that same day. You won’t leave the practice without a tooth or teeth. For full mouth implants a temporary bridge or denture is put in place.

If your implant is replacing a missing back tooth, the gap is less visible. So, we can skip the temporary crown or denture step, saving you money.  

Now you need time to heal, which can take a couple of months. The jawbone needs to grow around the implant to secure it in place. Once this has happened, your dentist can fit the permanent crown or bridge.   

So yes, implants can be ‘done in a day’ to the point where your implant is fitted, and you walk out of the surgery with teeth. But no, they can’t be done in one day because you need time to heal before your dentist can fit the final prosthetics. 

Question 8: How do dental implants work?

There are four parts to an implant: the titanium fixture, the screw, the abutment and then finally the crown. 

Although we often refer to a dental implant being all four parts, the actual implant is the screw-like fitting that’s placed into the jawbone. This is the part that holds a prosthetic crown or bridge in place in the same way as a natural tooth’s root. 

Question 9: What are full mouth dental implants?

You may hear this treatment called all on 4, all on 6, or multiple implants as well as full mouth implants. Multiple implants may be worth considering if you have several teeth missing from your upper or lower jaw, and to replace all of your remaining teeth. This can be more cost effective than getting several individual implants. I discuss the procedure, the benefits and cost at length on our dedicated All on 4 implant page.

Question 10: Is getting dental implants worth it?

There are a number of dental restoration options. Whether dental implants are right for you will depend on a number of factors including:

  • your lifestyle
  • your current oral health
  • how much you want to spend on your smile makeover. 

Implants are hardwearing. They’re designed to withstand day-to-day life so you can carry on eating and drinking as normal, plus they’re easy to care for. You brush and floss them in the same way as natural teeth. 

For a more information and a full overview read dentures vs dental implants where we weigh up the pros and cons of these popular dental restoration treatments.

Question 11: Are dental implants covered by Medicare?

Medicare doesn’t currently cover ‘most dental services’ or ‘cosmetic surgery’ at the moment. Dental implants usually fall into non-rebatable bucket. It’s unlikely you’ll be able to claim any dental implant costs back on Medicare. 

Making an informed decision that’s right for your oral health

Successful dental implant treatment—whether you’re getting one or multiple implants—depends a lot on your individual circumstances. I hope I’ve answered your most burning questions about this treatment. Still have questions? Learn more about our dental implant service here.

Registering with a dentist in Australia

The new patient checklist

Assistant with digital tablet standing by reception counter while registering new patients.

Are you looking for another dentist? Perhaps you’ve moved recently, or had an unsatisfactory experience at your last dental visit. Or you may simply need a particular treatment your regular dentist doesn’t offer.

Whatever the reason, registering as a new dental patient should be easy. 

Understanding the process of becoming a new patient at a different practice will save you time. It’ll also make transitioning from one practice to another as painless as possible. 

Here’s how we do it at Keppel Dental. 

Infographic on new patient steps at Keppel Dental. Details of infographic listed below.

The 3 steps to registering as a new patient at Keppel Dental

Step 1: Call us

Let us know you’d like to register by phoning our friendly reception staff on (07) 4939 2155. During this 10-minute call you’ll be asked:

  • your name and contact details (phone number, address and email)
  • why you’d like to register 
  • a few details about your oral health care history.

The receptionist will then offer you some appointment options so you can book your first checkup.

Step 2: Complete the new patient forms

Before your first appointment you’ll need to fill out a registration and health summary form (often called a ‘new patient form’). 

I know, I know. I can practically hear you yawning at the thought of filling in forms. But we try to keep the sign-up process as simple as possible. Just arrive for your first appointment 10 minutes early to give yourself time to complete it using one of our tablets.

The checklist

Before filling out the new patient form make sure you have: 

  • your health insurer details 
  • the details of your previous dental practice 
  • current or recent medication information
  • contact details for your emergency contact person 
  • your current GP’s name, practice address and phone number
  • your Medicare number (if claiming Child Dental Benefits Schedule).

You’ll also be asked about your medical history and that of your immediate family. Conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, along with any medication you’re taking, may affect how you’re treated. Having a complete picture ensures any treatment we give you is medically safe.

Step 3: Your first appointment

The day before your first appointment we’ll call or message you to complete our COVID-19 screening. You’ll be asked whether you’ve got a sore throat, a runny nose, a cough or a temperature. If you do, we’ll reschedule your appointment. But if you’re fit and well, then we look forward to seeing you.

Arrive 10 minutes early on the day of your appointment to complete your new patient form. 

When the dentist is ready for you, they’ll meet you in reception and invite you to their treatment room. You’ll spend about an hour with the dentist. During this time, they’ll:

  • get to know you, and discuss anything you’ve mentioned in your medical and oral health history 
  • speak with you about your dental experiences and current needs
  • look in your mouth to check
    • for periodontal and gum disease
    • for early indicators of oral cancer
    • any cavities and fillings
    • the condition of any existing dental work
    • your bite
  • x-ray your mouth
  • clean and floss your teeth.

This information helps your new dentist prepare your personal oral health care plan, which includes the next steps to take. You may be advised to book an appointment with an oral health therapist, and when your dentist would like to see you for your next checkup. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask your dentist any questions about your teeth, such as fixing chips or cracks, or getting smile makeover treatments such as professional tooth whitening or dental implants. 

After your appointment

The reception staff will ask whether you need to make a follow-up appointment, or if you would like to book your next checkup. They’ll also process your payment, which you can fix up using EFTPOS or cash. 

The top 3 new patient questions 

How long does the appointment last? ▼

Your first appointment will take about an hour.

How much does the appointment cost? ▼

A first appointment usually costs $187-$271, depending on how many x-rays you need. Medicare doesn’t cover oral health at the moment, but if you have dental cover with private health insurance you may get a rebate.

What should I do before seeing the dentist? ▼

You may want to brush and floss your teeth on the day so they’re looking their best. And while you’re filling out the new patient forms, think about any questions you want to ask your new dentist about your teeth and treatment.  

Looking for a dentist in the Rockhampton and Yeppoon area?

We’re accepting new patients, and would be happy to discuss your oral health needs and challenges. Take the first step in registering as a new patient. Use the form below to tell us you’re interested. 

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8 Ideas for what to do with your kid’s milk teeth

Young girl (female age 6) surprised to find that she have lost her first bottom front milk teeth isolated on grey background.

And a look at the tradition of keeping milk teeth 

You’ve spent years trying to get your child to brush their teeth. And right when it was starting to get easy, your child (proudly) shows you that they’ve got their first wobbly tooth. Given how much they’re playing with it, you know it’s going to fall out any moment now. You’ve got the tooth fairy’s first visit sussed. But you’ve not thought about what you’ll actually do with the milk tooth. Should you keep it? Are you a monster if you bin it? (Answer: no.) If you do keep your child’s milk teeth, where or how should you store them? And to what end? 

If this parenting quandary has got you scratching your head, understanding the traditions around keeping baby teeth may help. Along with some real-world ideas from parents who’ve already met this milestone. 

A short history of keeping milk teeth

The origins of keeping milk teeth are hard to pin down. They may date back to the Vikings. Warriors went to battle wearing milk teeth jewellery to bring them good luck and ward off evil spirits. 

Belief in the protective powers of baby teeth was still alive in early Europe and at the time of the witch trials. People buried or burned milk teeth to protect themselves against the occult. The practice of burying teeth survives today.  In some parts of the world, milk teeth are buried in the belief that this helps the child’s big tooth grow strong and healthy.  (But we advise supporting that belief with these practical ways to care for your child’s tooth.)

Why today’s parents keep milk teeth

In 2020 health company DentaVox surveyed 330 parents about milk teeth and what they did with them. 

Interestingly, 72% of those surveyed said their parents didn’t keep their milk teeth. Fifty-five percent of those people said they regretted that. So, did regrets about not keeping their baby teeth influence what these people did with their child’s milk teeth, now that they were parents?

  • A huge 59% hid them, keeping them as keepsakes or for stem cell collection.
  • The 2 top reasons for keeping teeth were: family traditions (30%) and making children happy (16%).

The 23% of surveyed parents who binned their children’s teeth did so because it was:

  • the most practical solution (26%)
  • the most hygienic solution (23%)
  • in line with family traditions (18%).

So now we’ve got some insight into what caregivers are doing with milk teeth. But to learn more about why people keep or bin them, we turned to social media. 

We asked around on Facebook and amongst friends and found that many people don’t really know why they keep their kids’ teeth. Responses included:

“Mine all got chucked, yet I still keep [my little boy’s] teeth and I don’t know why?”  

“I keep them in a matchbox like my mum did.” 

 “I’ve no idea why I kept [my son’s] teeth. Just a thing my mother did and probably hers before her. Links to the past are often a way of remembering.” 

Sentiment and tradition seem to be at the heart of ‘why’ we keep baby teeth, even if they eventually end up in the bin.  

8 ideas for what to do with milk teeth

Choose what works for you and your family. No one’s judging (or even looking).

1. Chuck them

A sizeable percentage of the surveyed parents chose this option. And when we asked the question on social media, this was a resounding answer from a lot of mums and dads. If you throw them in the bin to go to “tooth heaven” (as one parent called landfill) don’t feel bad. You’re definitely not alone. 

2. Place them in a memory box

You may already have a memory box for your child. Perhaps it includes a lock of hair from their first trim, your hospital bands and photos. Bag or box your child’s tooth and add it to the memories.

Alternatively, you could invest in a dedicated first tooth box. Some of these can be quite fancy, made from solid silver, others are simpler, small wooden boxes. Parents also told us they used:

  • satin bags 
  • match boxes
  • empty camera film canisters
  • small, decorative porcelain pots
  • old hardboiled lolly or mint tins. (The irony is not lost on us.)

3. Baby tooth books

Want something a bit more formal than a pot? Then you might prefer a baby tooth book, like these from Baby Tooth Land. The fold-out books have a pot in the middle, with a space for each tooth. Some also have tooth charts. This is a great way to help your child understand which teeth they’ve lost.  

4. Keep them for stem cells

You’ll find plenty of references to keeping milk teeth for their stem cells. The claim is that baby teeth can be useful if your child develops medical conditions such as type 1 diabetes, heart disease and even Alzheimer’s. But the science-backed reality of this is complicated. 

While the pulp of baby teeth is rich in stem cells, how they can be used therapeutically or effectively is still unclear. This article, ‘Should you save baby teeth for stem cells?’ explains the process in some detail. If you do follow this path, you’ll need to invest in a stem cell bank storage facility. For the teeth to be useful in the future, they need to be carefully preserved. 

5. Store in a drawer

According to the DentaVox survey, some parents hid their children’s milk teeth. But it didn’t explain why they did this.  Speaking to our own friends and families we learnt it was pretty common for the teeth to be bagged or boxed and hidden, usually in a drawer. One person told us, “I put them in a little bag, carefully hid them in a box, and hid the box in a drawer. I found them 20 years later and threw them away. I’ve no idea why I kept them.” 

6. Have them made into jewellery

Milk tooth jewellery is a thing. Mostly it’s an Etsy thing. Usually, the design leaves the tooth looking like…well…  a tooth. But there are companies like this one in America, that transform the tooth into a pearl-like ‘tooth stone’ and set it in a pendant.  

7. Bury them

If the tradition of burying milk teeth appeals to you, then go ahead. You could make it a mini celebratory occasion with your child. And, if nothing else, it will potentially mess with the mind of anyone who digs them up in the future. 

8. Gift them to your adult child

Avenge yourself on your adult kids for all the confusingly weird and wonderful things they said and did to you over the years. As one mother told us, “I’m keeping my eldest daughter’s [teeth] to freakily gift them to her as an adult.” Parents who’d already gifted the teeth back to their original owners reported responses that were pretty much what they’d expected. 

“My daughter was not impressed,” said one mum. Another told us, “I offered them to my son and he said, ‘No thanks but you keep them if you want.” Adult children on the receiving end of the sentimental gift told us they promptly threw them out or “lost them in a house move.” Generally, the kids were as confused about what to do with them as their parents.

Caring for your child’s big teeth

Where one milk tooth gap opens, another tooth grows. If your child has reached the stage of getting their big teeth, it’s time to start taking them to see the oral health therapist or dentist. You may have them enrolled in your local practice already. If not then take the tooth fairy’s first visit as your cue to begin seeing a dentist regularly. (Here’s what you can expect at your child’s first dental visit.)

Dentures vs dental implants: Which should you choose?

The dentist is holding a close-up of a dental prosthesis in the hands in her hands.

How modern dentistry can give you back the smile you miss 

Have you lost a tooth, or multiple teeth, and don’t like how it looks? Perhaps you’re finding it harder to eat and drink with the extra gaps? 

Thankfully, you don’t need to struggle on. There are ways you can restore your smile and get back to life with a full set of chompers.

Modern dentistry gives you options when it comes to tooth replacement. And in this article we’ll discuss two of the most common choices—dentures and dental implants—and weigh up the pros and cons of each.

Dentures vs implants: let’s begin!

All about dentures

The Australian Dentistry Association (ADA) describes dentures as “artificial substitutes for missing natural teeth”. Usually made from acrylic or a combination of metal (cobalt chrome) and acrylic, they can be a permanent or temporary tooth replacement option for people of all ages. Full dentures are nearly always made from acrylic, whereas partial dentures are usually made using cobalt chrome because it’s more comfortable. 

When fitted correctly, dentures are designed to look and work just like your natural teeth.

A defining feature of dentures is that they’re removable, and can usually be fitted to your gums regardless of how much bone is present in your jaw. Depending on how many teeth you’ve lost, you can get either a complete set or a row of two or three to replace a few missing teeth.

Whether you’ve lost your teeth through decay, gum disease or trauma, dentures are a cost-effective choice. It’s still a financial outlay, as is any tooth replacement option. But the treatment process for dentures is somewhat simpler than implants, making them a more affordable option.

How dentures are made and fitted

The first step in making dentures is taking an impression of your upper and/or lower gums. Happily, there have been incredible advances in digital dentistry that make it possible to take accurate scans quickly and easily.

Along with these impressions, your dentist will also study your bite and jaw alignment. They do this to make sure they give you the correct denture length so talking and chewing are comfortable. Only then do they make a test set of dentures and fit them to your mouth. 

When that’s done they’ll check the fitting of the preliminary dentures, and adjust the alignment or length of the teeth if necessary. 

Once everything is as it should be, they will make and fit your final set of dentures. You shouldn’t need any adhesive, as a  well-fitting set of dentures will mould to your gums.

Are dentures right for you?

When weighing up dentures vs implants, there are a few things to consider: cost, lifestyle, any medical conditions, and jaw bone density. 

Here’s why you might prefer dentures.

  • The cost is more in line with your budget.
    In terms of what you can afford and what you’re comfortable paying for dental restoration work. If you have private health with dental cover, your policy is more likely to include dentures. 
  • You’re happy with dentures.
    If you’ve had dentures before and found them comfortable, implants may not seem any more beneficial. 
  • Medical conditions or medicines mean implant placement isn’t possible.
    Osteoporosis, radiotherapy treatment and some IV drugs can affect the longevity of implants.
  • You smoke and don’t want to quit.
    Smoking is a factor in periodontal diseases, which can cause implants to detach. Giving up smoking is encouraged before implant treatment.    
  • You’ve lost some jaw bone material.
    Whether through age, injury or gum disease, you may have lost the bone material needed for implants. A bone graft is possible, but if you don’t wish to undergo this surgery then dentures may be a better fit for you. 

The downsides of dentures 

So why wouldn’t you want dentures? Well, unlike some other tooth replacement options, dentures can take time to feel comfortable. Like a new pair of shoes, you need to ‘wear in’ new dentures. And so at first they can rub and irritate a little. 

Your dentist will explain what is and isn’t normal in this instance. For example, sores and ulcers forming on your gums from wearing dentures is quite normal. But if it happens often, you need to know when to see a dentist to get help. Sores and ulcers are usually caused by the dentures rubbing due to a poor fitting. But they can also be caused by improper cleaning and hygiene practices.

Speaking of denture cleaning and hygiene, for your dentures to stay sparkling (and your mouth healthy) you need to:

  • brush twice a day using a specialised denture cleanser (not toothpaste)
  • remove any lingering adhesive from your gums using a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • take them out every night and soak them in a cleaning solution.

Unlike dental implants, dentures need to be refitted now and then. Your bite changes over time, and your dentures will need adjusting to match.

The pros of dentures

Despite all that, dentures are the right choice for many people. They’re cost-effective, can be a short-term solution (while you save for something longer lasting), can be used even if you have a weaker jawbone, and tend to be quicker and easier to make and fit.

The key to being happy with your dentures is maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine. If you’re confident you can do that, then dentures are a good and reliable choice. 

Okay, let’s look at dental implants. 

All about implants

Dental implants come in two parts:

  • the screw-like implant, which is fitted into the jawbone
  • the crown cap, which delivers the look and function of a natural tooth.

Like dentures, implants can replace one tooth or multiple teeth, and have become increasingly popular in recent years.

How dental implants are made and fitted

Fitting a dental implant happens over the course of several appointments. 

The first step of the journey is getting a map of your mouth. Using digital dentistry techniques, scans of your teeth and gums are taken. This state-of-the-art technology can quickly create accurate models of your mouth. No more gloopy impressions needed.

From the scans we can see whether any damaged root needs to be extracted from your jawbone, or whether any other underlying oral health problems need sorting out before your implant is fitted. 

Assuming all is well, a titanium, screw-like fitting is placed into your jawbone. This is the ‘implant’ or ‘post’, and does the same job as a natural tooth’s root: anchoring the new tooth so it stays put.

Implants come in different sizes. Which one your dentist will use will depend on:

  • the tooth being replaced 
  • the size of your mouth and jaw
  • the size of the gap being filled.

The jawbone then needs to grow around the implant and secure it in place, which can take a couple of months. While that’s happening, your dentist will work on the aesthetic aspect of the tooth replacement. This involves making (and eventually placing) a natural-looking ceramic crown on top of the implant. Your final appointment will be fitting the crown so it looks and feels like your other teeth.

Are dental implants right for you?

When it comes to dentures vs implants, implants win the battle on the treatment intensity level. But dental implants are a great option for anyone who:

  • is free from gum disease
  • has a strong, healthy jaw
  • doesn’t have any tooth decay
  • is in good physical health overall.

Dental implants also last longer than dentures, and don’t need adjusting or replacing as often. This makes them a particularly good choice for younger people who want a long-term solution.

The cons of dental implants 

In the dentures vs implants debate, implants look like a solid choice on paper. And for many, they are. One of the biggest benefits (which we’ll get into shortly) is when done to a high standard, implants let you get on with everyday life as if you still had a natural tooth. 

But getting an implant is rarely a quick or easy treatment. You need to be committed to investing in your oral health. And yes, ‘investing’ does refer to the cost.

Dental implants can be quite a financial outlay. Of course, the actual costs of dental implants depend on:

  • the number of implants you need
  • any underlying oral health challenges that need solving
  • any extra surgical procedures needed, such as bone grafting or tooth extraction. 

Before deciding whether dental implants are right for you, you need to understand the investment. And the best way to get a price that’s relevant to your situation is to contact your dentist.

Besides the cost and treatment time, there can be other implant complications such as infection and even mechanical problems (e.g. an implant loosening, a crown cracking). 

The pros of dental implants 

Once you’ve made the commitment to getting a dental implant (or multiple implants,) the pros far outweigh the cons. 

  • It’s a longer-term solution. Implants are fitted into your jaw and made from hard-wearing titanium.
  • Your implant won’t need refitting. Once it’s in it’s in, and the implant will move with the growth of your jaw.
  • Implants can provide more comfort. They won’t move around (which minimises the risk of sores or ulcers), and can be relied on to work like natural teeth when chewing.
  • Easier care and hygiene. Implants can be brushed and flossed in the same way as natural teeth.

Deciding which is better: dentures vs implants

Choosing the tooth replacement treatment that’s right for you comes down to knowing what your personal circumstances will allow and what will suit you best. It can also be influenced by lifestyle factors, such as the foods you like to eat, the time you can devote to good oral hygiene, and even your budget. 

Researching the difference between dentures and implants is a good start. Hopefully this guide has helped. Beyond that, it’s time to talk to your dentist.

If you’re in the Yeppoon or Rockhampton area we’d love to help you know you’ve made the right choice.

Together we’ll look at your dental history, your needs, and of course the condition of your teeth and gums. And from there we’ll find the best treatment plan for you.

Let’s get started.

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What are veneers, and should you get them? A guide

Unhappy with your teeth or smile? Getting cosmetic veneers fitted to your teeth may help restore some of your confidence. But what are they? And what does the treatment involve? 

In this guide, we’ll answer some common questions about veneers, and explain how they’re fitted from start to finish.

In this guide:

What are veneers?

Chances are you’re reading this guide because someone suggested getting dental veneers to help fix your smile.

But what are veneers, exactly? 

Veneers are a cosmetic dentistry treatment. Simply put, they’re thin, tooth-coloured covers made of porcelain or a composite resin that we place over the visible parts of your teeth. Think of them as fake fingernails for your teeth. 

Veneers look natural in your mouth because they’re customised to match the colour and general shape of your existing teeth. A  variety of options are available for composite and porcelain veneers to suit your needs, the look you want, and your budget.

Who can get veneers?

You don’t have to be old to want veneers. 

Most people with good oral health who are committed to maintaining their new teeth should be OK to get dental veneers. It’s more about why you’d get them.

Veneers improve the visual aspects of your teeth. They’re great if your teeth are discoloured, chipped, worn, broken,  crooked or sitting awkwardly in your mouth. They’re also a great option for whitening your teeth if teeth whitening treatments haven’t worked.

However, as amazing as they are, veneers won’t correct badly misaligned teeth, overbites or underbites. These issues fall under orthodontics. 

Do veneers ruin your teeth?

We’re often asked if dental veneers ruin the natural tooth underneath.

The good news (and short answer) is that veneers do not ruin your teeth.

That myth stems from the preparation process, where a small amount of enamel is usually removed from the tooth so that the veneer can bond to it.

As long as they’re being fitted properly by a qualified cosmetic dentist, your tooth won’t be ruined. (Here’s our team of cosmetic dentists).  

Can any dentist fit veneers?

Not all dental practices offer cosmetic dentistry, so you may need to look around.

As it’s specialised work, you need to make sure you’re seeing an experienced dentist.

You should also look at some of their before and after case studies to make sure they’re the right person to help you achieve your desired look.

Are veneers permanent? 

Veneers are designed to last 7-15 years, making them semi-permanent fixtures.

However, as enamel is removed to fit the veneer they’ll need to be replaced if they become broken or aged.

What are the benefits and disadvantages of veneers?

The main benefit of veneers is they’re less invasive than crowns and fairly simple to apply.

They’re also customisable, so you’re assured of an improved, natural-looking smile.

However, there are also some disadvantages to getting them. 

To fit them, the tooth is usually trimmed slightly to ensure a smooth application.

But as you probably guessed, the natural tooth under the veneer will look shorter or different to your other natural teeth as a result.

Removing a veneer will expose the natural tooth underneath, so the veneer will need replacing to keep your smile looking even.

So while they are semi-permanent (lasting 7-15 years) once you get them you need to keep using them. 

How are veneers applied to teeth? (A step-by-step process)

Now that we’ve explained what veneers are, let’s talk about the steps involved to get them. 

Applying dental veneers is a simple process our dedicated team will make positive and painless. 

Composite resin veneers can be completed in one visit, as the material is applied to the tooth in layers. 

However, getting porcelain veneers involves the following steps:

Step 1: Initial consult

You’ll start by meeting with a specialised cosmetic dentist to determine whether veneers will give you the results you want. Your dentist will diagnose any existing dental problems and assess your smile, your face and even the way you speak. 

Step 2: Prep meeting 

At your first official treatment appointment, your dentist will prep your tooth by trimming off a little enamel. (Veneers are bonded directly to a tooth.) Next, they’ll take a scan of your mouth using a small wand camera. This gives them a full-colour, 3D map of your mouth they can use to create your new veneers. It can take up to four weeks to create custom veneers, so you’ll probably be offered temporary veneers to tide you over.

Step 3: Fitting the temporary veneers 

While the temporary veneers may not match the colour of your teeth perfectly, they’ll give you an idea of how your permanent veneers will look and feel. They usually stay in place for around two weeks, during which time your dentist will ask for feedback on the shape, and how you think they look and feel. They consider all of this information when fitting your customised veneers.

Step 4: Fitting the customised veneers and meeting your new smile

Success! This final appointment is when they fit your new veneers and you meet your new forever smile.

They’ll remove your temporary veneers, place the new veneers over your teeth, and then tweak their shape until they fit seamlessly. 

The veneer procedure takes a few hours, and may be performed under local anaesthetic to numb the area and reduce any pain. 

Your dentist will:

  1. clean and polish your teeth
  2. etch your treated teeth to strengthen the bonding
  3. apply a special cement to the veneer before fitting it to your tooth
  4. use ultraviolet light to activate the cement’s chemicals so it hardens quickly and bonds the veneer to your tooth
  5. tidy up by removing any excess cement and making final adjustments to make sure your veneers feel comfortable.

And once the numbness wears off your new teeth will be good to go for talking, eating and drinking. Just keep in mind your mouth and jaw may feel sore for a few days.

Will getting dental veneers hurt?

You may find the procedure uncomfortable. You may also experience some temporary soreness or tenderness afterwards as your mouth and jaw adjust.

However, anaesthetic is used during the procedure to numb any potential pain. 

How much do veneers cost? 

Costs vary slightly depending on the dentist, the material used and the thickness needed.

As a guide, porcelain veneers fitted in Queensland can cost anywhere from $1000 to $2500 per tooth, while composite resin veneers can cost anywhere from $200 to $600 per tooth.

Are porcelain veneers better than resin?

Both materials have advantages and disadvantages that may help you to decide which ones are right for you. 

Porcelain veneers are more durable, resistant to staining, and look more natural on your teeth.

However, if they crack or chip you’ll need to replace the entire veneer. Porcelain is also a more expensive dental material, increasing the overall cost of porcelain veneers.

Composite resin veneers can be applied to your teeth in one visit, and cracks and chips are easy to repair.

The resin material is applied in layers to build up the thickness and ensure a natural aesthetic.

Are dental veneers right for you?

Dental veneers are a simple, semi-permanent solution to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile.

But you need to do your research and talk to a cosmetic dentist about your options to determine whether they’ll help you address your issues and achieve your desired look.

If you’re thinking about getting dental veneers, and you’re in the Rockhampton or Yeppoon area, schedule a consultation with our cosmetic dentistry team.