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1250 Nepean Hwy, Cheltenham VIC 3192
Tel: 03 9583 8676 Fax: 03 9583 8723
reception@cheltenhamdental.com.au

Preventive

Examination

Cheltenham Dental are committed to ensuring that all our patients have excellent oral health as it has proven that it contributes to general well-being. We believe that regular six-monthy dental examinations are necessary as it allows the dentists to identify the onset of any arising issues before they cause a problem.

This is more cost efficient as it prevents the need for major dental work in the future. During the oral examination, routine dental radiographs may be needed to assist in diagnosis and treatment planning. Children as young as the age of four are recommended to visit the dentist on a regular basis. As they say, the best cure is prevention.

Treatment for gum disease

Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) causes your gums to be red, swollen and an increase tendency to bleed. This inflammation is caused by the bacteria that resides in residual plaque or tartar build up, prevalent in people with poor oral hygiene of whom haven’t had a thorough clean recently. There are two main catergories of gum disease:

  • Early stage of gum disease (gingivitis) – is reversible inflammation of the gums which can be successfully treated by the removal of the plaque and tartar build up on your teeth
  • Advanced stage of gum disease (periodontitist) – is a more severe form of gingivitis where the inflammation spreads to the surrounding connective tissue and supporting bone leading to its resorption. Signs of periodontitist include deep gum pockets, persistent bad breath, receding gums and loose teeth which may result in a subsequent extraction.

Studies have shown that gum disease is one of the most prevalent diseases in our community and can be a contributing factor in other medical conditions such as heart disease and increase the risk of premature births. This can be easily prevented with regular brushing and flossing in conjunction with regular examinations and cleaning with your dentist on a bi-annual basis.

Remineralization

Remineralization is a process in which minerals are returned to the tooth itself, creating a stronger molecular structure and making the tooth more resistant to acid.

Fluoride is the most common remineralization agent and is present in many daily consumable items such as fluoridated tap water, toothpaste and mouthwash.

The dentist can also topically apply a gel or varnish with a higher concentration of fluoride if required.

Another product which remineralizes teeth is called Tooth Mousse Plus. As well as fluoride, Tooth Mousse also contains CPP-ACP (Casein phosphopetide – Amorpous calcium phosphate) and studies have demonstrated that it is able to repair early stages of dental decay. The dentist will make an assessment on whether each patient will require remineralation. Some indications are:

  • white spot lesions
  • moderate to high risk of developing caries
  • active decay
  • orthodontic treatment (braces)
  • decreased salivary flow
  • to reduce hypersensitive teeth

Custom sports mouthguards

Sporting injuries to the head and mouth are becoming all too prevalent. This can cause damage to your jaw, lips as well as dental injuries such as chipped or dislodged teeth. These injuries can be easily prevented by wearing a custom-fitted sports mouthguard which help absorb and spread the impact of the blow.

Over the counter mouthguards are ill-fitting and can cause difficulty in speaking and breathing. A custom fitted sports mouthguard will not only provide your teeth the best protection, but it will also be much more comfortable and tolerable to wear. An investment into a mouthguard is much more cost-efficient than the cost involved in treating an injury to your jaw or your teeth.