3 Advantages To Starting Oral Care From A Young Age

As any new parent knows, keeping a young child healthy and safe can be a challenge and there are too many areas that need to be addressed! But did you also know that preventive care for your little one’s oral health starts before their teeth even come in? Find out in this blog article why children’s dentistry is so important, and how it can help give your little one a great start to life.

Children’s Dentistry in Ivanhoe

Introducing your child to a dentist is one of the best things you can do for their dental health.

There are many reasons why taking your child to a dentist is so vital. For starters, it helps to instill good oral hygiene habits in children from an early age. This sets them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. It also means that any problems can be detected and treated early before they become more serious.

Dentists also have an understanding of how a child’s mouth develops and grows. This means they can spot any potential problems, such as overcrowding or misaligned teeth, and offer treatment accordingly. They can also provide advice on how to prevent common childhood dental problems such as tooth decay.

If you’re looking for someone to entrust your child’s dental care too, look no further than our dentist in Ivanhoe. They will ensure your child enjoys good oral health now and long into the future!

Advantages of Regular Dental Checkups for Children

There are many advantages to taking your child for regular dental checkups. These include:

1. Early detection of dental problems: By checking your child’s teeth and gums regularly, any dental problems can be detected early and treated accordingly. This can help to prevent more serious problems from developing.
2. Prevention of cavities: Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to spot any areas of the teeth that are at risk of developing cavities. They can then provide advice on how to best protect these areas, such as sealing the deep grooves in the teeth.
3. Maintenance of good oral health: Regular checkups also allow your dentist to monitor your child’s oral health in general and give advice on how to maintain it. This includes information on diet and oral hygiene habits.

What Can Parents Do to Foster Good Oral Hygiene in Their Kids?

As your child grows, they will develop their own oral hygiene habits. As a parent, you can set a good example by maintaining your own oral health and fostering healthy habits in your child. Below are some tips on how to promote good oral hygiene in your kids:

• Encourage them to brush their teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Show them how to floss properly and make it fun!
• Lead by example and let them see you take care of your own teeth.
• Take them for regular dental checkups and cleanings from the dentist.
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks that can cause cavities.

By following these tips, you can help your child develop lifelong healthy oral habits!

Children’s Dentistry in Ivanhoe: Book an Appointment at Prodental Melbourne

There are many advantages to booking an appointment at Prodental Melbourne for your child’s dental needs. First and foremost, our team is experienced in providing high-quality children’s dentistry in Ivanhoe. We understand that children can be nervous about visiting the dentist, so we go out of our way to make sure they feel comfortable and relaxed in our care.

We also offer a comprehensive range of children’s dentistry services, from routine check-ups to more complex treatments. This means that we can provide the right care for your child, no matter what their individual needs may be. And because we bulk bill all of our services under Medicare for eligible patients, you can rest assured that you won’t be hit with any unexpected bills.

So why wait? Book an appointment with our team of dentists in Ivanhoe today and give your child the gift of good oral health!

What to Do in a Dental Emergency?

What to Do in a Dental Emergency?

Dental emergencies are no fun. Particularly when you are bleeding, suffering from unbearable pain, or any unexpected dental issue . In such cases, you should see an emergency dentist who can lessen the discomfort and provide you with some medical and dental relief. Our emergency dentist in Ivanhoe is here to look after you and your family’s dental needs, even the emergencies!

Before Googling ‘emergency dentist near me’, it is important to understand what a dental emergency is. Dental issues can be of varying types, either from childhood or recently incurred. Either way, not tending to them in time can lead to more serious dental problems in the future. 

In many instances, a dental emergency can present as any of the following-

• Swelling on the face or gums

Swelling on the cheeks and gums is an indication of a potential dental infection that our dentist in Ivanhoe can diagnose. The face swelling could potentially lead to a very serious and sometimes life-threatening issue and needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

• Unbearable pain in teeth, gums, or jaw

Unbearable pain and sensitivity are two of the most common signs of a dental emergency. Unbearable and lingering pain could be one of the signs of a tooth’s nerve problem .The tooth sensitivity is when a person experiences discomfort or intense pain in their teeth upon contact with certain stimuli like hot and cold. Jaw pain can also be very uncomfortable to experience. All of these problems are better to be addressed sooner rather than later to prevent the progress of the issue.

• Trauma and bleeding from the mouth

We can think of various explanations for why you might be experiencing blood oozing from your gums. These may include gum disease, an injury, an infection, a recent extraction site, something small embedded inside your gum, such as a broken or chipped tooth, or even cavities. While this can be alarming, it is particularly concerning if the bleeding continues for some time.

• Broken dentures

An injury or accident can cause your dentures to shatter, leading to discomfort and inconvenience, and can even be embarrassing if you are in public when it happens. Prompt treatment is essential for regaining a healthy smile. The issue of broken dentures is one that needs to be addressed quickly as it can affect your ability to eat and speak properly.

• Tooth Abscess

If you experience a pimple-like bump in the mouth or observe pus on the gum, an infection cannot be ruled out. A tooth abscess can cause discomfort to the whole of your mouth, gums, and nearby tissues, and it spreads speedily, causing more pain and uneasiness. An abscessed tooth could cause intense pain and require professional medical care to treat the infection.

In the event of an infected wisdom tooth, knocked-out tooth or a need for an emergency root canal procedure, please contact our emergency dentist in Ivanhoe right away. Prompt attention can provide some relief and reduce any future problems. Ignoring the issue could lead to significant consequences which sometimes could drastically affect your health. Our dentist will be able to answer any concerns you may have following treatment.

We also look after patients who are anxious or nervous around dentists or dental clinics. Our emergency dentist in Ivanhoe is experienced in sleep and sedation dentistry, helping those with dental phobia relax in a safe and comfortable environment. We pride ourselves in putting patient comfort at the very core of what we do and you can be rest assured, you will be looked after very well. 

Looking for a Reputed Emergency Dentist in Ivanhoe?

Consult our dental clinic and speak to our emergency dentist right away if you are facing any of the above dental issues. Our team consists of experienced emergency dentists who will listen, acknowledge and attend to your dental emergency needs with utmost care and patience. Book an appointment online or call us at 03 7067 8586.

Myths and Facts About Root Canal Treatment You Should Know

What strikes you as you hear the phrase root canal? Does it cause discomfort and is painful? Is it costly? Does it make you sick? Myths about root canal treatments are misleading for many people. A stigma has developed over time that the root canal practice is unsafe and harmful and possibly yields more health concerns in future. The facts say something different.

In this guide, we’ll clarify that some myths are just that, myths: false and unverified statements. A root canal treatment in our dental clinic could be very different from what you think. Here is the list of myths and facts to ease your mind.

Myth – Root Canal Causes Unbearable Discomfort and Pain

Many patients feel they will have to undergo intense pain and discomfort during root canal therapy. The fact is far from what people think. Modern equipment and an experienced dentist make the treatment comfortable and painless. Our dentist will numb the infected tooth and the area around it with anaesthesia before starting the treatment to avoid the pain you could feel. A doctor also prescribes medication to ease the pain you feel post-procedure.

Myth – It Involves Pulling Out the Roots of the Tooth

People who need to opt for root canal treatment sometimes believe this practice involves sectioning and removing roots from the rest of the tooth. However, this is not how it works. The root canal is a preventive cure to save the injured tooth and its roots. It includes extracting the infected pulp to eliminate the bacteria and avoid new infections.

Our dentist then cleans, adds filling, and seals the canals. The pulp that fills the root canal has nerves and connective tissue to help the cured tooth’s roots to grow. In the case of the fully grown tooth, a dentist doesn’t use the pulp to grow because it can survive using surrounding tissues.

Myth – Root Canals Cause Other Health Issues

An infected root canal is vulnerable to infection that may affect surrounding teeth, gums, and tissues. It is a misbelief that there is a possibility of contracting other diseases if an individual opts for a root canal. The cure for an infected root canal does not impact any other part of the body or put it at risk of viral diseases.

The root canal treatment is safe and effective. Also, avoiding a root canal can actually result in additional health issues because oral health is directly concerned with the complete health of the body.

Myth – Pregnant Women Cannot Get Root Canal Therapy

Many pregnant women are tense as they think opting for a root canal treatment can probably impact the developing foetus. However, many people unknowingly ignore the fact that pregnancy can worsen existing dental issues or generate new ones. That’s why a root canal treatment is safe and recommended even when you are expecting. The dentist will take the necessary precautions to ensure that you’re safe.

Don’t worry! The baby’s health is unaffected by the anaesthesia used to manage pain. Still, a dentist may ask if you have a high-risk pregnancy or any other health concern that requires a hold or delay in treatment. We advise you to consult your dentist before finalising the root canal treatment.

Myth – Root Canal Is Not Long-Lasting

People usually believe that a root canal treatment never lasts long, and once it fails, you must opt for tooth extraction. The truth is that a root canal treatment lasts lifelong if the restoration procedure happens on time by an expert dentist. This treatment keeps your natural tooth safe by removing the infected pulp.

A root canal stays longer for front teeth as they have a single root. While back teeth have two to three roots and need repair after a decade. Hence, a root canal may not last as long on back teeth for more than a decade if you don’t practise a hygienic dental routine.

Myth – Tooth Removal Is More Reliable Than A Root Canal

Patients opt for a tooth extraction when they feel root canal treatment is ineffective or don’t want to spend time and money on a root canal. However, it is untrue that removing a tooth and choosing a tooth implant is more suitable than root canal therapy. The dentist always tries to preserve the natural tooth. For that, a root canal is the best way.

A root canal is an endodontic remedy that helps eliminate the infection to save the tooth. One should only opt for tooth removal when the natural tooth is damaged beyond repair.

Myth – You Can Delay Root Canal Therapy If The Tooth Is Not Bothering You

Some people assume they can postpone a root canal if the damaged tooth is not troublesome. Yet, the infected tooth can contaminate the surrounding teeth, gums, and tissues and result in excessive pain if they wait for a long time for the root canal treatment.

When you visit the dentist, they can help you identify the damage caused by an infected pulp and prescribe a root canal treatment to cure it as soon as possible. Therefore, we advise you to visit a dentist for a check up every six months, even if you don’t feel extreme sensitivity or pain.

Prodental Melbourne’s dentist recommends ignoring the myths and following the practitioner’s advice for root canal treatment instead of removing the natural tooth. Our dentist in Ivanhoe ensures that the root canal treatment is neither dangerous nor painful.

Visit our website to check the signs of an infected root canal or book an appointment with our dentist.

5 Benefits of Invisalign Over Traditional Braces

In the era of modern dentistry, there are myriad ways to achieve a perfect smile. Long gone are the days of severe metal braces, with modern technology being harnessed to align your teeth with subtlety. Invisalign is the latest in transparent orthodontic devices, expertly fitted by your dentist at Prodental, your go-to dentists in Ivanhoe.

So, why choose Invisalign over traditional dental braces?

5 Benefits of Invisalign

1. They Are Virtually Invisible

Invisalign treatments use crystalline trays that straighten your teeth. This means they are virtually transparent, giving you the confidence to show those pearly whites throughout the treatment.

2. Optimal Comfort

Metal braces contain wires which require regular tightening and often cause discomfort. Invisalign’s design is sleek and comfortable, without wires to aggravate your mouth and gums.

3. No Restrictions

Regular braces mean avoiding certain food. Invisalign is designed without complicated crumb-capturing traps, and is easily removed in its entirety so you can enjoy all the canapes without fear of ruining the effectiveness of the treatment.

4. Easy to Clean for Better Oral Hygiene

Invisalign’s removable design means you can brush and floss without ducking and weaving around metal braces, resulting in a more thorough clean. Additionally, Invisalign contains teeth-whitening technology which helps keep your teeth sparkling throughout the day.

5. Fewer Sport Restrictions

Metal braces are a sporting hazard, with the impact of a ball to mouth causing significant damage. Metal-free and without wires, Invisalign can be worn during the most arduous activities with complete confidence.

The Takeaway

If you’re concerned about your smile, but want to avoid the restrictions that come with traditional braces, book an appointment to discuss Invisalign with the best in the business, Prodental.

Invisalign Clear Aligners by Prodental Melbourne

Fascinated with the benefits clear braces offer? Why wait? Contact Prodental Melbourne’s dentist serving Heidelberg on 03 7067 8586 or book an appointment and get custom-made aligning trays. Our clinic in Ivanhoe boasts the most modern equipment with the most personalised care.

5 Habits That Can Stain Your Teeth?

A healthy smile comes from sparkling white teeth. Everyone likes to flaunt their pearly whites, but having stained teeth can significantly affect your confidence. We usually fail to recognise our habits that may influence teeth staining. Let us review what can cause a dental stain.

1. Consuming Teeth-Staining Beverages and Foods

Coloured compounds such as chromogens and tannin in foods and drinks with heavy pigments can stain your teeth since the enamel is naturally porous and can absorb those pigments. Any food that taints your fingers is likely to stain your teeth. The typical dental staining foods and beverages are:

• Black Tea or Coffee
• Red Wine
• Soft Drinks
• Dark Coloured Fruit Juices
• Beetroots
• Dark Coloured Berries
• Pasta Sauces
• Coloured Candies

Brushing and rinsing your teeth after consuming such edibles may decrease the chances of getting dark stains on your tooth enamel.

2. Not Drinking Enough Water

Not drinking the recommended amount of water can cause dehydration , gum diseases and sometimes cavities.. Saliva’s function is to lubricate your throat and remove debris from the tooth. A dry mouth and lack of saliva can make your tooth enamel vulnerable to stains and cavities. Drink water as you feel thirsty to avoid teeth stains and other dental issues.

3. Smoking

Smoking harms the health of a person in general. However, a smoker’s teeth are highly vulnerable to staining. The primary cause of staining by smoking is the existence of nicotine and tar. Over time, these two substances enter your teeth’ enamel and discolour your teeth. Not just staining, a person who smokes regularly can increase the chances of gum disease, tooth decay and, at times, tooth loss.

4. Poor Oral Hygiene

A healthy oral routine causes a smile that shines. Forgetting to brush or floss your teeth regularly can increase the risk of dental staining and other dental conditions, including gum diseases and cavities. Practising proper oral hygiene can help reduce the risk of stains on your teeth.

5. Remember! With Dental Stains, Preventive Care is The Only Key

Multiple causes can make your teeth lose their brightness. Yet, you can always focus on preventive care to avoid tooth discolouration. Honing healthy habits combined with 6 monthly dental clean-ups can prevent tartar buildup from causing severe stains. Some other preventive measures include,

• using a straw while drinking pigmented beverages
• frequent mouthwash to rinse anything that may stick to your tooth
• brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day
• seeking help to quit smoking
• opt regular dental check-ups

Get in touch with Prodental Melbourne and benefit from compassionate and caring practices. Our dentists can help you know more about teeth staining and its treatments to achieve and maintain a bright and happy smile.

7 Reasons You Need to Visit a Dentist Every 6 Months

Do you feel that regular dental check-ups are nothing more than a standard cleaning of your teeth and gums? Actually, that’s not the case!

In fact, regular check-ups and teeth cleanings allow your dentist to address any underlying issues before they become more severe health problems.

As people say, “better safe than sorry”, and your oral hygiene practice is no exception. 6 monthly dental check-ups are an excellent way to keep your teeth and your mouth, and in a sense, your whole body, in good health.

Let’s consider a few of the many advantages of a regular visit to our dentist in Ivanhoe.

1. Early Detection of Oral Diseases in the Early Stages

During six monthly visits, your dentist can detect most of early signs of problems even without them giving you any grief or symptoms.

For example, detecting problems like a small, asymptomatic ulcer can lead to your dentist running detailed diagnostics for the possibilities of vitamin deficiency, oral cancer, and non-oral diseases with oral manifestation causing general health issues in the long run if left untreated. Or, detecting small cavities at early stage can prevent future pain and complications

That is why diagnosing a disease before it is symptomatic can only be possible with regular check-ups. Early detection of conditions can make the treatment an easy process, and more effective.

2. Assessing Your Eating Habits

It is widely known that dietary habits play a crucial role in dental health. Your diet may damage oral components like gums, teeth, and throat. Opting for dental check-ups every six months can help your dentist detect the possible harm in advance and implement the necessary treatment process.

3. Repairing Small Aesthetic Defects

Some dental treatments may eventually break down, and wear and tear can be inevitable. Hence, visiting our dentist in Ivanhoe is beneficial. They can identify these issues during scheduled visits and recommend ways to prolong the longevity of the existing treatments or assist with a remedy to avoid further harm. After all, protecting a million-dollar smile is essential!

4. Children’s Dental Check-ups

Periodic oral health check-ups can prevent children’s teeth from developing decay. In addition to that, starting the habit of regular dentist visits can aid in inhibiting the development of dental phobia and create a healthy association and habit with dental care into adolescence and adulthood.

5. Financial Benefits of Regular Check-ups

Early diagnosis of dental problems can save you from spending more later down the track when it worsens. Preventative solutions and early treatments often do not cost much money but provide multitudes of benefits in the long term. For example, treating tooth decay is simple when detected in its early stage and may cost a couple of hundred; however, should a tooth need a root canal treatment due to late diagnosis of tooth decay, then the cost goes over a thousand dollars!

6. Long-Term Dental Hygiene

Dental visits are not limited to a teeth cleaning process. Regular cleaning can prevent your teeth from developing plaque buildup and serious gum disease. Prodental Melbourne’s experienced dentist in Ivanhoe removes unhealthy build-ups from your teeth’s surface to keep them healthy.

7. Teeth Grinding at Night

Many people grind their teeth at night; the result can be devastating over time. It can cause loss of healthy tooth structure and consequently having shorter teeth. Sensitivity, loss of face vertical dimension and many other problems can be prevented by early diagnosis and prevention. 6 monthly visits helps your dentist detect the issue and provide a solution.

At Prodental Melbourne, we practice compassion & care for patients and provide a relaxing environment. Phone us at 03 7067 8586 or book an appointment online for stress-free routine dental check-ups.

What To Eat After Your Tooth Extraction? Here Are 7 Tips By Our Dentist in Ivanhoe

Have you just had a tooth extraction, or are you going for one soon? We understand how painful it can be, but practising healthy and careful food habits in the days after the surgery can make your recovery an easy one. If you are worried about the food you are allowed to eat to best avoid damaging the dressing, at Prodental Melbourne’s dentist in Ivanhoe, we have shared some tips that may help you choose your diet and avoid getting food stuck in the socket:

What To Eat After Your Tooth Extraction?

1. Soup

Our dentist at Prodental Melbourne recommends broth-based or blended soups following tooth extraction as these do not require chewing. Soups such as creamy pumpkin, condensed tomato, and french onion are best for the tender area in your mouth. However, make sure the soup is lukewarm and not hot! Hot food can lead to excessive bleeding.

2. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are full of nutrients and can be a comforting meal to eat after a tooth extraction procedure. Lukewarm mashed potatoes can be beneficial for recovery and are great to fill you up when you are not allowed to eat crunchy foods.

3. Yoghurt

Yoghurt is a nutritious food supplement recommended by our dentist in Ivanhoe. The creamy texture of yoghurt is perfect when you are not allowed to eat chewy food. It has nutritional values such as protein and vitamins to help you maintain your health.

4. Eggs

Eggs are the best source of protein to include in your meal after your tooth removal surgery. Our dentist in Ivanhoe recommends including scrambled eggs in your diet after tooth extraction as they can do the trick for a speedy recovery.

5. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a good option when it’s cold, and provides a good source of nutrition, however you should wait for 2 to 3 days after your surgery as oatmeal is sticky. You can also have flavoured oats or try adding a little honey.

6. Ice cream

Ice cream can help with bleeding and is also easy to eat as it’s soft and requires minimal to no chewing. What’s better? It comes in a variety of flavours.

7. Applesauce

Eating applesauce is yet another way to be on a nutritious diet while recovering from surgery. It is an excellent meal post-surgery as it does not require a little jaw movement and aids in the healing. This can be added to your yoghurt, ice cream or oatmeal.

Speed up your healing with the suggested soft foods, and avoid consuming spicy, crunchy, and chewy food after tooth extraction. Our dentists at Prodental Melbourne are skilled in making your tooth extraction experience comfortable and assist with proper dietary guidelines to help you recover quickly. Get an appointment or call us on 03 7067 8586 to schedule your visit to our dental clinic in Ivanhoe.