What is teeth grinding?

Bruxism is the official name for teeth grinding together, when they should be at rest. This is unnatural activity and causes many negative consequences. Top and bottom teeth should only be in contact for about 20mins each day. This includes activities such as speaking, chewing, swallowing. When, not in use, top and bottom teeth should be a few mm apart.

 

Why do people grind their teeth?

It’s still unclear to scientists, why up to 30% of all people grind their teeth. Some of the more well known reasons are:

• stress
• prescription drugs
• recreational drugs
• genetic predisposition
• anatomy of jaw
• psychiatric disorders
• neurological disorders

 

What are the signs and symptoms of teeth grinding?

• teeth become shorter
• teeth become more sensitive
• teeth start to chip along edges
• vertical cracks can be seen along the front of the tooth
• shape of gum changes
• headaches
• jaw aches
• pain when yawning
• pain around jaws in the morning
• discomfort when chewing hard foods

 

How to stop teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding or bruxism can be a temporary response in relation to stressful time in a person’s life. At, Corio Central Dental, we have seen many patients complain of the above-mentioned signs during challenging times in their life. Circumstances, like exams, moving house, getting a divorce, etc. The grinding may naturally reduce, once the stressful even has passed. In most cases, however, grinding continues for many years and produces significant damage to teeth and gums. The best way to prevent further damage in these situations is to have a custom made night splint made by one of our dentists. Wearing this splint each night will allow the teeth to rest and this can reduce many of the symptoms like headaches and jaw pain.

 

What should I do if I think I’m a grinder?

Book in for a consultation with one of our amazing dentists and let us assess your unique situation. We can offer advice on repairing any damage which may have already been done and offer solutions on how to prevent problems in the future.

 

CLICK HERE -> To Book Your Teeth Grinding Consultation

 

 

Bleeding gums:

Bleeding gums are one of the most common dental problems that we see at Corio Central Dental. Patients usually experience bleeding gums for a long time or even most of their life and learn to live with this condition. Bleeding gums are the body’s way of letting you know that something is not quite right and management is needed. Gums may bleed spontaneously, while eating or while toothbrushing.

Some common reasons why gums bleed:

• gingivitis
• periodontal disease
• hormonal imbalance
• too long since last dental clean
• toothbrushing too quick
• incorrect toothbrushing technique
• incorrect flossing
• poorly fitting denture
• poorly fitting filling
• poorly fitting crown and bridge
• viral infection
• bacterial infection
• fungal infection
• trauma
• partially erupted wisdom tooth
• pregnancy
• adolescence
• medication side effects

Are bleeding gums serious?

Yes! Although, it may be completely pain free, bleeding gums can progress to a more serious dental disease. Managing the problem early is usually less expensive, too.

How do I fix bleeding gums?

There are a variety of reasons that may cause your gums to bleed, so the first step is to find the cause. The best place to start, is to see one of our amazing dentists for a consultation. It may be as simple as a look inside your mouth and some photos, or we may require further x-rays to be taken. If the cause is related to dental care / lack of dental care – we will instruct you on best practices for your particular case and may offer a professional dental clean. If the cause of bleeding gums is related to existing dental work which is in poor condition like –

• poorly fitting denture
• poorly fitting filling
• poorly fitting crown and bridge

Our dentist will offer recommendations on replacing or adjusting this existing dental work to make your gums more happy and healthy.

How much does it cost?

A basic consultation to discuss your bleeding gums would cost $55. If you have not been for a dental check up, in some time, we would recommend the comprehensive dental examination package fo $195. This includes:

• comprehensive examination
• addressing all your dental concerns
• intraoral photography
• unlimited x-rays, as required
• written treatment plan with all recommendations and costs
• professional dental clean
• prophylactic polish

Which toothbrush should I use?

A lot of patients are concerned about finding the “perfect” toothbrush and toothpaste, to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Luckily, all toothbrushes and toothpastes are OK at cleaning your teeth and gums. HOWEVER, this is not enough! A thorough dental examination at least once every 6mths is essential to ensure your teeth are healthy and gums never bleed again.

 

BOOK MY DENTAL CONSULTATION – CLICK HERE

 

 

What are dental implants Geelong?

Dental implants Geelong are becoming a very popular option to replace missing teeth, and for good reason! Implants are the closest possible treatment option to a natural tooth. They consist of a metal screw (artificial root) which is placed in your jaw and a porcelain crown (artificial tooth). Once placed and healed they feel almost like a real tooth and you can eat pretty much anything you want on them.’

 

Do they work?

Yes! Dental implants Geelong are the most predictable and successful type of dental treatment available today, of all dental treatments! There is a lot of planning that goes into each case, and it may take 6 moths or even longer, sometimes from start to finish. Don’t worry most of that length of time is healing, which you do at home. There are surprisingly few appointments required, with long intervals in between.

 

Are they expensive?

Quoting for dental treatment without seeing you and your specific scenario is almost asking how long is a piece of string? We understand that cost is a very important aspect of treatment and will always give you a clear treatment plan with costs and item codes (in case you need to claim on dental insurance). A single tooth implant is around $5,000-$6,000.

 

Aren’t implants cheaper overseas?

Yes, some patients are able to find great bargains in other countries. HOWEVER, dentist overseas may use substandard materials and techniques which can result in implant failure. Removing a failed implant and placing a new one in Australia may actually costing MUCH more financially and emotionally, overall. We recommend Straumann as one of the best systems on the market.

How do I get a dental implant?

The first step is to speak to one of our friendly dentists and see if you are suitable for a dental implant. Some medical conditions, medications and specific mouth factors are not favourable for dental implants. Meet our team.

BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION APPOINTMENT TODAY