Is Invisalign The Best Solution For All TMJ Disorders?

Posted on August 9, 2024August 9, 2024 by greenwood_dental

While Invisalign can sometimes be helpful for TMJ disorders, it’s not necessarily the best solution in all cases. Before you jump into Invisalign as a potential solution for your TMJ pain, it’s crucial to understand the basis of this condition and explore all available treatment options. At Greenwood Plenty Dental Care your trusted dentist in Bundoora, we provide complete care for TMJ disorders to address your unique needs. In today’s blog post, we will tell you the relationship between Invisalign and TMJ to help you make the best decision for your oral health.

What Is A TMJ Disorder?

Temporomandibular Joint disorder is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jaw to your skull. This joint is responsible for allowing you to open and close your mouth, chew, and speak.

Symptoms Of TMJ Disorders

Pain is a common complaint, felt in the jaw, face, temples, or even the neck. A clicking or popping sound in the jaw when opening or closing the mouth is another sign. Individuals may also experience difficulty opening their mouth wide or even locking, where the jaw gets stuck in either a closed or open position. Headaches, particularly in the temples or behind the eyes, are also associated with TMJ. Some may experience earaches unrelated to ear infections, and feelings of dizziness are all the symptoms of TMJ disorders.

When To See A Dentist in Bundoora For TMJ?

If you’re experiencing persistent jaw pain, clicking or popping noises in your jaw, difficulty opening your mouth wide, headaches, earaches, or dizziness, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a dentist in Bundoora. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.

What Causes TMJ Disorders?

Misaligned bites or jaw structures can put undue stress on the temporomandibular joint, leading to pain and dysfunction. Injuries, like a direct blow to the jaw, can damage the joint, while arthritis, both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the TMJ, causing pain and stiffness. Chronic stress and teeth grinding can put excessive strain on the joint. The jaw can also become dislocated, causing a popping or clicking sound. The disc that acts as a cushion between the jawbone and the skull can become displaced or worn down, contributing to TMJ disorders.

Is Invisalign The Right Solution For TMJ?

While Invisalign can sometimes be helpful for TMJ disorders, it’s not a cure-all. It can address certain bite problems that contribute to TMJ pain, improving jaw alignment and reducing strain on the joint. However, Invisalign won’t address underlying causes like arthritis or disc displacement. We encourage you to consult with our dentist or orthodontist to determine if Invisalign is appropriate based on your individual needs and the severity of your TMJ symptoms.

When Invisalign Might Be Helpful for TMJ?

Mild TMJ Symptoms – Invisalign may be helpful for individuals with mild TMJ symptoms caused by bite problems.

Combined Treatments – Invisalign can be used as part of a multi-disciplinary approach to TMJ treatment, often in combination with other therapies like physical therapy, medications, or mouth guards.

To ensure you get the right dental treatments, call the trusted dental clinic in Bundoora – Greenwood Plenty Dental Care at (03) 9466 7843. We also offer dental treatments for kids, teeth whitening, general dentistry, orthodontic treatments, Invisalign, dental crowns, dental veneers, endodontics, and emergency dental treatments as well to all patients in Melbourne and surrounding suburbs including Macleod, Watsonia, Kingsbury, Reservoir, Greensborough, and many more.

5 Key Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Treatments

Posted on July 25, 2024July 25, 2024 by greenwood_dental

Visiting a dental clinic in Bundoora is a great opportunity to take control of your oral health. However, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when discussing treatment options. Asking the right questions is crucial to making informed decisions that align with your needs and preferences. In today’s blog, we recommend these 5 essential questions to ask your dentist in Bundoora about any recommended treatment. Trust us, asking these would help make oral health appointments useful and informative.

1.What is the problem, and why is this treatment necessary?

Finding out the underlying cause of your dental problem is crucial. Ask your dentist to explain the problem clearly, including the potential risks of delaying treatment. For example, if you’re experiencing pain in a tooth, ask for a detailed explanation of the cause. Is it a cavity, a cracked tooth, or gum disease? Get to know the source of the problem to help understand the necessity of treatment.

2.What are my treatment options, and what are the benefits and drawbacks of each?

Whether there’s a single solution or several options, it’s vital to understand the full scope of your choices. Ask your dentist to outline all possible treatment approaches, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each option, including potential costs, recovery time, and long-term implications. For instance, if you have a cracked tooth, you will be given orthodontic treatment options like a filling, a crown, or even an extraction.

3.What are the risks and potential complications associated with this treatment?

Every procedure carries some level of risk. Ask your dentist to explain the potential complications, including infection, pain, and sensitivity. What are the chances of needing a second procedure? Or could I experience any long-term side effects? Knowing the potential risks will help you prepare for the treatment and understand the recovery process.

4.How long will the treatment take, and what can I expect during recovery?

Know the timeline for the procedure and the recovery process. Ask about any necessary restrictions or follow-up appointments. For example, if you’re root canal treatment or getting a dental implant, ask about the number of appointments, the healing time, and any dietary or activity restrictions. Having a clear timeline will help you plan your schedule and manage potential inconveniences.

5.How can I maintain my oral health after the treatment?

Ask about the best practices for caring for your teeth and gums after the procedure. It could include specific brushing and flossing techniques, dietary recommendations, and follow-up appointments. For instance, after a filling, your dentist might recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush or avoiding certain hard foods.

By being an active participant in your dental care, you’ll feel more confident to make decisions that prioritise your oral health. Aside from regular checkups, we at Greenwood Plenty Dental Care also offer general dentistry, teeth whitening, root canals, broken tooth treatments, and much more. To schedule an appointment with us, call (03) 9466 7843 today.

Recovery Tips After Wisdom Tooth Removal

Posted on January 25, 2024January 28, 2024 by greenwood_dental

Wisdom teeth are large teeth that grow at the back of the mouth. They may erupt at the age of 17-25. Sometimes, if there is not enough space in the mouth for the wisdom tooth to move into the right position, it may impact the other teeth, causing pain. In some other cases, they may erupt at an angle, causing gums to bleed. This is where the dentist recommends a wisdom tooth removal to protect your other teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that removes the partially erupted teeth, alleviates gum pain and prevents potential dental issues. The recovery process can be challenging. In this blog, we will provide you with valuable recovery tips to ensure you heal quickly and comfortably.

Follow Post-Operative Instructions

After your wisdom tooth removal at our dental clinic in Bundoora, it’s crucial to follow the post-operative instructions provided by our skilled dental professionals. These instructions will help you minimise complications and promote proper healing.

Manage Pain and Swelling

It’s common to experience some pain and swelling after the procedure. Our emergency dentist in Bundoora may prescribe pain medications and recommend using cold packs to reduce swelling. Be sure to take any prescribed medications as directed.

Maintain Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean is essential for a smooth recovery. Gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical site. Our team can provide guidance on the right oral hygiene routine during recovery.

Choose Soft Foods

For the first few days after wisdom tooth removal in Bundoora, opt for soft foods that won’t irritate the surgical site. Soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are good choices. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could cause discomfort.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is crucial for healing. Dehydration can slow down your recovery process. Aim to stay well-hydrated and avoid alcohol and carbonated beverages during the initial days.

Rest and Avoid Strenuous Activities

Give your body the time it needs to heal. Rest and avoid strenuous activities that could increase blood flow to the surgical area and lead to complications.

At Greenwood Plenty Dental Care, we prioritise your dental health and comfort. If you require wisdom tooth removal, root canal treatment, or have a broken tooth in Bundoora, our experienced team is here to assist you. By following these recovery tips and seeking our expert care, you can expect a smoother and faster healing process.

If you need any other dental treatments, our dentists are here to help you! We also provide dental treatments in various Melbourne locations such as Montmorency, Plenty, Reservoir, Rosanna, Thomastown, Viewbank, Watsonia, and many others. To schedule an appointment with one of our dentists, call us at (03) 9466 7843 today.

Are DIY Teeth Whitening Methods Effective?

Posted on August 3, 2023 by greenwood_dental

Well! Not really! The thing is everyone of us aspires to have a bright, flashy, and straight smile. But, we never visit a dental clinic in Bundoora for teeth whitening and cleaning treatment. We often go for something more easily, like home remedies or over-the-counter products. With the growing popularity of DIY teeth whitening methods like home kits and natural remedies, many people are attracted to try these treatments at home for a whiter smile. However, it’s essential to understand the effectiveness of these DIY treatments and the potential risks associated with them. In today’s blog, we aim to educate patients about the pros and cons of DIY teeth whitening.

Understanding DIY Teeth Whitening Methods

DIY teeth whitening methods often involve over-the-counter products such as whitening strips, gels, and trays. While these products may claim to whiten teeth, their effectiveness can vary widely. Many DIY solutions may provide minimal results or take an extended period to show any noticeable improvement. The risky part is that some of these DIY products may contain abrasive ingredients that can damage your tooth enamel and lead to sensitivity. This is why, it’s safe to visit a dentist in Thomastown for professional guidance and treatments.

Risks Associated With DIY Teeth Whitening Procedures

One of the significant risks of DIY teeth whitening is improper usage. Without professional guidance from a dentist in Reservoir, individuals may overuse or misuse the whitening products, leading to tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or uneven results. Moreover, DIY methods may not address the specific cause of tooth discolouration, such as underlying dental issues or staining from certain foods or medications.

Importance Of Professional Teeth Whitening

For safe and effective teeth whitening, it is best to seek a professional dentist in Macleod. They can offer professional teeth whitening services tailored to your unique needs. Also, they use advanced teeth whitening techniques that provide impressive results in a controlled and safe environment.

While DIY teeth whitening methods may seem like an affordable option, they can come with potential risks and limited results. For brighter teeth, consider professional teeth whitening at Greenwood Plenty Dental Care. Our skilled dentists ensure that your teeth whitening experience is effective and tailored to your oral health needs.

If you are looking for a dentist in Greensborough or nearby locations like Macleod, Thomastown, or Reservoir, contact our team to guide you. To schedule your appointment with our dentists, call us at (03) 9466 7843 today.

How to Take Care of Your Dental Crown: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on May 30, 2023May 30, 2023 by greenwood_dental

Got dental crowns installed on your tooth from a dentist in Bundoora? Whether you need to protect a weak or damaged tooth or restore a broken tooth, cover a tooth with a large filling, support a dental bridge, restore a dental implant, or enhance the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth. Dental crowns are a common restorative solution used to strengthen and protect damaged or weakened teeth. Like any orthodontic appliance or tool, your dental crown also requires proper care to last long. Taking proper care of your dental crown is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain good oral health. In this blog, we will discuss effective ways to care for your dental crown.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is crucial for the health of your dental crown. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. dentists insist on paying special attention to the area around the dental crown to remove any plaque or food particles.

Floss Daily

Flossing is an important step in caring for your dental crown. Gently slide dental floss between your teeth and along the gum line, including around the crown. This helps remove plaque and debris that may accumulate and cause gum irritation or decay.

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

Be mindful of the foods you consume to protect your dental crown. Avoid chewing on hard substances like ice or using your teeth as tools to open packages. Also, minimise the intake of sticky foods that can dislodge or damage the crown.

Wear a Mouth guard

If you engage in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouth guard is crucial to protect your dental crown from potential damage. A custom-fit mouth guard provided by your Bundoora dentist offers the best protection.

Regular Dental Check-ups

You must schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to monitor the condition of your dental crown during routine examinations. They can identify any signs of wear, decay, or other issues and address them promptly.

Proper care and maintenance are vital for the longevity and functionality of your dental crown. By practicing good oral hygiene, being cautious with your eating habits, wearing a mouth guard when necessary, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can ensure the longevity and durability of your dental crown. Remember, your dental crown plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy and confident smile, so ensure you care for it properly.

For dental crowns or orthodontic treatments, consult with the expert dentists from Greenwood Plenty Dental Care at (03) 9466 7843 today.

What Causes Narrow Palate? Does It Need Treatment?

Posted on May 8, 2023October 25, 2023 by greenwood_dental

Are you one of those people with a small mouth space? If you smile in front of the mirror and only see six or fewer teeth in front, the reason could be a narrow palate. When you have a narrow palate, your mouth will have less space for the teeth to grow. People with such conditions have a hard time. It can lead to a cross-bite, overbite, teeth protrusion, teeth ache, and migraines. If you suspect a narrow palate, you should visit the dentist in Bundoora and get suggestions. The palate is the roof of the mouth, consisting of both the hard and soft tissues. A narrow palate can be caused by various factors, such as genetics, habits, and medical conditions. Understanding the causes of a narrow palate can help you take the necessary steps to address the issue and maintain optimal oral health.

Genetics

A narrow palate can be an inherited trait meaning, it can be passed down from parents to their children. A genetic predisposition to a narrow palate can result in teeth crowding and cause problems with speech, breathing, and chewing. Inherited conditions such as cleft lip and palate can also contribute to a narrow palate.

Habits

Habits such as thumb-sucking and tongue-thrusting can cause the palate to become narrow. These habits can put pressure on the palate, resulting in a narrow shape. Prolonged use of pacifiers or bottles can also contribute to a narrow palate in infants. So, make sure to take your child to your dentist in Bundoora.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can cause a narrow palate. For example, allergies or chronic sinus problems can cause inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, which can lead to mouth breathing and a narrow palate. Additionally, conditions such as sleep apnea and enlarged tonsils or adenoids can also contribute to a narrow palate.

Impacts of a narrow palate

A narrow palate can cause several problems, including difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, speech problems, and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Narrow palates can also cause problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which can lead to jaw pain and headaches.

Treatment

Treatment for a narrow palate will depend on the underlying cause. For example, if the narrow palate is due to a habit such as thumb-sucking, it may be possible to break and allow the palate to develop normally. Orthodontic treatments such as braces or Invisalign are recommended to expand the palate and create more space for the teeth.

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to widen the palate. This procedure, known as palatoplasty, involves making incisions in the palate and attaching a device that expands the palate over time. Surgery is typically only recommended in cases where other treatments have been ineffective.

If you suspect you have a narrow palate, it’s crucial to consult with our dentist in Greenwood Plenty Dental Care to evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment. For appointments, call us at (03) 9466 7843 today.

Unusual Causes Of Teeth Crowding

Posted on March 16, 2023April 6, 2023 by greenwood_dental

After all, who doesn’t like to have a symmetrical and beautiful smile? However, people with teeth crowding find it hard and super uncomfortable. If you are one among them, visit the Dentist in Bundoora to get help on your dental crowding issues. People with crowded teeth also face pain that comes from one tooth putting pressure on the other, and leads to tooth sensitivity and severe pain and bleeding while brushing.

If the pain seems to be consistent and unbearable, visit an orthodontist at a dental clinic in Bundoora. Apart from the general reasons like a small jaw, tongue thrusting, and thumb sucking, there are many other serious that cause one to have crowded teeth. Let’s see them in detail.

Teeth crowding is not always about an aesthetic concern; it can have serious health concerns as well.

A Cleft Lip Or Palate

This is a serious birth condition or syndrome where the upper lip or mouth has an opening or split in the roof part. Children or babies with cleft palate will have missing teeth or extra teeth in the line of the cleft, which eventually leads to teeth crowding in the later stage.

Genetics And Poor Oral Habits

Your jaw size and shape are strongly related to genes. Genes control how your teeth form into shape and sometimes may not form properly. If you have a small jaw, all the teeth won’t have sufficient space to grow, leading to overcrowding or crooked teeth. It may lead to under bite or overbite problems, and pain and makes your oral hygiene practices difficult.

Losing Baby Teeth Prematurely

Premature tooth loss can also be one of the reasons for crowded teeth. If the baby tooth is lost at an earlier stage, the adjacent teeth next to the missing tooth often start to shift to the space, causing teeth crowding. Also, sometimes baby teeth that are not lost on time can lead to a serious orthodontic condition.

If you are struggling with crowded teeth and want to fix them, consult with our dentists from Greenwood Plenty Dental Care at (03) 9466 7843 today.

Can Protruding Teeth Cause Dental Issues? – Find Out!

Posted on November 23, 2022April 6, 2023 by greenwood_dental

Some people have naturally aligned straight teeth in a curved arch that adds extra beauty to their faces. Many have imperfections like teeth gaps, yellow teeth, crowded teeth, and protruded teeth. That’s why many flocks to dentists in Bundoora to correct their teeth imperfections to achieve a straight smile. However, tooth protrusion can negatively impact their appearance, confidence, and mental health. Besides that, it can also damage your teeth if not corrected. In today’s blog, let’s figure out how protruding teeth can impact your overall health.

Mouth Closure

Protruding teeth can make your ability to close your mouth. However, if it prevents you from closing your mouth, it can make your lower jaw recede and continue to misalign. This will also lead to mouth breathing and poor sleep. Sometimes, this may cause migraines, sleeplessness, and an inability to concentrate.

Difficulty In Eating And Speaking

When your teeth protrude, it may be hard to eat efficiently. If you have a hard time, chewing your favourite foods or having a meal with friends or family, you will be more likely to limit certain foods. This can affect your nutrition and impact your health. For adults and kids, protruding teeth can also cause speech problems like lisping, whistling, or mispronunciations of consonants. It can be a real struggle for daily communication. It’s best to visit the dentist as soon as possible for orthodontic treatments and speech therapies.

Risk Of Teeth Injury

If your teeth stick out, they are more prone to trauma when you fall. Cracked teeth and uneven teeth wear can also cause teeth biting or biting inside the cheek and cause injury to your mouth. Patients suffer tooth injury from tooth grinding and clenching. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should check with the Bundoora dentists as soon as possible.

If you have teeth protrusion and want to resolve it, get teeth straightening treatments from Greenwood Plenty Dental Care at (03) 9466 7843 today.

All About Traditional Metal Braces – Things You Should Know

Posted on September 14, 2022September 14, 2022 by greenwood_dental

Braces are orthodontic tools responsible for correcting your dental problems. They are recommended by dentist Bundoora for people with teeth crowding, teeth protrusion, gapped teeth, teeth that are out of alignment, cross bite, overbite, and under bite issues. Based on the severity of the problem, the dentist may suggest braces for your teeth to align perfectly in time. Braces can help get your desired result and help you eat, chew, smile, and laugh confidently. Most people get their braces in their teenage and some during their adulthood. So how do these braces work? Let’s tell you in detail.

Dentist Rosanna

To know how they work, you must know the parts of the braces and their functionality. Let’s go one by one.

Bracket

It is a small thin attachment that is glued to the patient teeth. Its job is to help the wire settle in place in all the slots.

Arch wire

An arch wire is the connecting wire that helps connect all the brackets and decides in which direction the teeth should move.

Elastics

These are rubber bands that put pressure on the jaw so that it helps in aligning the teeth quickly.

Molar band

The molar band is a thin metal ring with hooks that are usually attached behind the teeth to hold the elastics. This helps to join multiple teeth and pull them together in the right direction.

Headgear Tube

It’s the tube that’s placed on top of the molars and a flatter tube is placed on the bottom.

Power Chain

It’s the chain that helps to find the length of the elastics. So, the dentist uses the required elastics to join your teeth.

Elastic Tie

These tiny flower-like tiny ligatures help to hold the wire into the slots of the brackets. This comes in colours as well.

Springs

These are placed between two teeth to create additional space between them.

All these small components in a traditional metal brace work together to correct the teeth to their original position. Whatever your teeth concerns are, work it out with our professional dentists from Greenwood Plenty Dental Care on (03) 9466 7843 today.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

Posted on September 5, 2022September 5, 2022 by greenwood_dental

We have been asked a million times about Teeth Grinding – Bruxism. Questions like whether it’s a sensory issue or hereditary issue or a sleep disorder or weakness have filled our inboxes recently. Therefore, we have decided to come up with the answers you need and the facts about Bruxism. Whether you have mild or severe Bruxism, visit a dentist in Bundoora to get help and find the right solution for your condition.

orthodontist

Bruxism is a condition in which a person clenches or grinds the teeth for no apparent reason. Well, mild bruxism may not require treatment; severe conditions can lead to jaw disorders, headaches, teeth damage, and other teeth issues. Some patients also have sleep apnea – a condition in which a person stops breathing for a while or pauses breathing and loud snoring.

What Induces Teeth Grinding?

Individuals grind their teeth for many reasons. While stress and anxiety are one of the major reasons, people clench their teeth, it can also happen due to lost teeth or crooked teeth or misplaced teeth and teeth gaps.

Some patients might have persistent dull headaches in the morning, excessive tooth wear, and grinding sounds while sleeping. The worst scenario of teeth grinding is it can lead to tooth loss.

How To Know If You Are Grinding Your Teeth?

Teeth grinding often occurs during sleep. If you find yourself constantly clenching your teeth while you are awake, you need to discuss it with a dentist to relieve this situation. In severe cases like chronic grinding, a patient may experience severe headaches, jaw pain, tooth loss, and cracking.
Your dentist may recommend root canals, bridges, crowns, or implants to correct this issue. Some even suggest stress counselling, physiotherapy, and muscle relaxants to help solve this problem.
For sleep time clenching, patients would wear a mouth guard to prevent teeth grinding.
Teeth grinding when left untreated can cause difficulties to your teeth, face muscles, and jaws. So, consult with an experienced dentist in Bundoora to get the best treatment.

If you are looking for dental treatments for teeth grinding issues, consult with our expert dentists from Greenwood Plenty Dental Care. For appointments, call (03) 9466 7843 today.