man with missing teeth needs dentures

Please don’t plan for dentures!! Plan to keep your teeth for life. Let’s, explore a bit further.

What are dentures?

A denture is a prosthetic appliance to replace missing teeth. Dentures can be made from plastic or metal. They can replace all of the teeth in your mouth or only a few.

Does everyone lose teeth when they get older?

No, absolutely NOT! Losing teeth is NOT a standard part of the ageing process. Teeth need to be removed because of disease. Tooth disease may be associated to one or more of these:

  • Trauma/broken tooth
  • Cracked tooth
  • Dental caries
  • Gum disease
  • Erosion – can be diet related
  • Unsuccessful dental treatment
  • Infection

Is tooth loss genetic?

In general – NO! A very small number of people may have genetic mouth conditions that will mean they will lose teeth as a result. The majority of people, however, simply have the same bad habits as their family members. Here are some examples.

Examples:

Parents did not have regular dental visits and kids don’t have regular dental visits

Parents eat sweets every day and kids learnt to have sweets every day

Parents smoke and kids smoke

Parents don’t brush their teeth regularly and kids don’t brush their teeth regularly

Parents always choose pulling out a tooth over saving a tooth and kids…..starting to get the idea?

Best way to avoid getting dentures, like your parents or siblings:

  • Regular dental checks – we cannot stress this enough. A simple 30min visit once a year can be the difference between struggling to eat for the rest of your life with artificial teeth or enjoying all the foods you love with your own natural teeth
  • Quit smoking! If you have not so already, this is the best thing you can do for your mouth and the rest of your body
  • We challenge you to keep a journal of all the foods you eat within a day, for one week and then bring it to Corio Central Dental. One of our dentist will go through the list with you, to see which foods contain sugar. You will be blown away when you find out!!

 

BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY

female smiling after smile makeover

No braces, smile makeover in Geelong

One of the biggest reasons patients feel embarrassed to smile is because they are not happy with the way their teeth look. We absolutely LOVE to surprise our patients and help them achieve a better smile in sometimes, a single visit, without any braces or Invisalign. A smile makeover is one of the treatments we routinely provide to our patients, at Corio Central Dental.

What is a smile makeover?

A smile makeover is a customised improvement of a person’s smile to make it appear more pleasing. Each smile may require something different and for that reason our professional and dedicated dentists take the time to assess what your particular concerns and needs are, before starting the transformation. It may involve changing the shape and or colour of your teeth, replacing old fillings or replacing missing teeth.

Which problems can a smile makeover fix?

  • yellow teeth
  • chipped teeth
  • broken teeth
  • discoloured fillings
  • teeth that are too short
  • gaps between teeth
  • cracked teeth
  • poor position of teeth
  • missing teeth
  • gum problems
  • uneven size teeth

How much does it cost?

Each smile is as different as the person who wears it, so each treatment is unique. Once our dentists have had a chance to meet you and understand the best approach in improving your smile, we will offer a written treatment plan, so that the total cost is very clear before and treatment is commenced. We even offer the option to get your smile looking it’s best ever now and up to 12 months to pay the treatment off, via ZipMoney

 

How long does it take to create?

This completely depends on which concerns we are trying to address. Some enhancements can be done in a sinlge visit, while others may take months to achieve.

The following are some examples of improvements, which can be done in a single visit:

  • Bonded veneers
  • Replacing discoloured fillings
  • In office whitening session
  • Closing gaps between front teeth
  • Polishing chipped teeth
  • Fixing broken teeth

The long term dental health and success of the smile makeover is closely related to the home oral hygiene. Our team will offer special home care instructions, suited to your teeth and gums, to ensure your new smile lasts for life!

 

Book My Smile Makeover Consultation TODAY!

 

man with bad breath

What is bad breath?

A foul odour coming from the mouth is called halitosis. Bad breath is most commonly caused by bacteria. There are a number of reasons for this, the most common being dental decay and gum disease.

Reasons for bad breath:

  • tooth decay
  • gum disease
  • impacted wisdom teeth
  • poor oral care
  • smoking
  • dry mouth – can be caused by medications
  • acid reflux
  • gastrointestinal problems
  • oral disease, such as infections
  • foods – onions, garlic etc
  • stress
  • medical problems such as diabetes, cancer, kidney disease etc

What can I do to fix bad breath?

The first step is to find the real cause of bad breath. A great place to start is schedule a visit to Corio Central Dental. A dental check up will reveal, whether the origin of halitosis is coming from the mouth. Dental decay, gum disease and even oral cancer can be completely pain free, so unless a dentist has a look, patients may be completely unaware that any disease is present.

Sample scenario:

A patient comes to seek help, for his bad breath. This patient is in his mid 30’s. He is healthy and not taking any medications. He is committed to brushing his teeth twice a day, flossing and even using Listerine. The halitosis continues and he is fresh out of ideas. A dental check up reveals an impacted wisdom teeth, the patient had no idea was there. This is the real culprit for this patient’s bad breath. The wisdom tooth has cut through the gum, but there is not enough space for it to completely erupt into the mouth. This partial eruption causes the tooth to be covered by a layer of gum and food gets trapped under this gum flap. No amount of cleaning can help, so it begins to decay and causes pretty bad breath. Solution? Simple – wisdom tooth is removed and patient no longer has bad breath.

 

What if I don’t have any dental disease?

If a dentist gives the all clear for your teeth and gums, the next step is to speak to your GP. Halitosis may be originating from the bacteria that live in your gut and special testing may be required to check for this.

 

PLEASE HELP ME TO FIX MY BAD BREATH – BOOK APPOINTMENT HERE

 

girl with her hand over hew jaw

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

Teeth Grinding or Bruxism Can be Dangerous for You

 

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

 

 

woman pointing to her bleeding gums

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

 

 

dental implant

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

 

 

Woman smoking

What is oral cancer?

Oral or mouth cancer is used to describe a group of cancers that start in the region of the mouth. Most common sites are lips, tongue and floor of the mouth. It can also start in the cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth, tonsils and even salivary glands.

 

What are the symptoms ?

The following list is taken from Cancel Council

  • a lump in your neck
  • loose teeth
  • swelling or a sore on your lip that won’t heel
  • difficult or painful swallowing
  • changes in speech
  • bleeding or numbness in the mouth
  • white or red patches on the mouth, tongue or gums
  • unexplained weight loss.

 

Is it painful?

Mostly not. It can be slow or fast growing, depending on the type. Patients rarely notice any signs, early on. Pain can develop later on, once the cancer spreads. Usually, a dentist is the first person to spot an oral cancer. Patients often don’t notice anything.

 

What does mouth cancer look like?

Is it serious?

Yes! Cancer of the mouth is just as serious as, other types of cancer. Some types of oral cancers can lead to severe and tragic consequences.  If oral cancer spreads to other parts of the body or lymph nodes, the prognosis can be very poor.

 

How to check if I have mouth cancer?

Oral cancer involves areas which are very hard to examine yourself, like the inside of your cheeks, salivary glands or the roof of your mouth, for example. A GP does not usually check these surfaces during a routine check-up. Corio Central Dental highly recommend that a dentist performs a thorough oral cancer screening for you, at least once a year.

 

Why do people get oral cancer?

In Australia, more than half of oral cancers are caused by smoking. Around 31% are caused by alcohol consumption. UV radiation is also linked to lip cancers. Genetics do play a role, as well.

 

BOOK MY ORAL SCREENING CONSULTATION TODAY

 

 

 

 

girl eating ice-cream with sensitive teeth

The start of winter means that we are getting into some pretty low temperatures in the mornings and evenings. This also means that some of us will start to notice that the cold air may feel quite painful on our teeth, if we are exercising outside for example, and mouth breathe. Sensitive teeth is a widespread problem and can affect people of all ages.

 

What are sensitive teeth

If your teeth hurt when you eat ice-cream, drink hot beverages, or eat sour foods or citrus, you may have ‘sensitive teeth’. Sensitivity can be every now and again or frequent, and the level of discomfort experienced can vary, but the triggers are usually hot and cold, sweet and sour foods and drinks. Some people even feel pain from simply breathing in cold air!

 

Why are teeth sensitive

Pain and sensitivity can be a result of dental disease or simply extreme wearing out of the tooth surface. Here are some of the most common reasons:

  • gum disease – gums move down from the original gum line and expose the root of the tooth
  • smoking – which is actually the main reason for gum disease, the reason is the same as above, sensitive teeth caused by gum moving away and exposing the fragile root surface
  • toothbrush that is too hard  – will commonly wear away the top layer of enamel
  • brushing with too much pressure – will lead to sensitive teeth by wearing away the enamel of the tooth
  • acid erosion – nothing worse than a perfectly healthy tooth being repeatedly exposed to high levels of acid (such as juices, soft drinks) causing them to become sensitive teeth
  • grinding teeth – this can happen during the day or at night and rapidly wears down healthy tooth structure, exposing the inner surface of the tooth called dentine

 

How to fix tooth sensitivity

  • buy soft tooth brush
  • brush your teeth with minimal force
  • quit smoking
  • have regular dental check ups and ensure you do not have gum disease
  • if you have gum disease, let us help you with treatment
  • use products designed to relieve sensitivity, such as toothpastes
  • reduce acid containing foods and drinks in your diet
  • arrange to have a splint made – to protect your teeth from wear if you grind them

 

There is no need to suffer any longer, book a time to see one of our amazing experienced dentists to help you feel more comfortable.

 

BOOK MY APPOINTMENT TODAY

 

 

 

 

woman looking very impressed

Do you have the best dentist in Geelong?

We live in a fast-paced world where technology is ever changing, expectations placed upon us are higher than ever and time is always lacking. Materialistic possessions and monetary achievements are highly valued. Dentists and dental practices have a reputation of being expensive, money hungry, judgemental and indifferent.

 

Unfortunately, at Corio Central Dental, we often hear patients share stories, where one or more of the above-mentioned, have been true. We hear them with the greatest regret and from the bottom of our hearts, believe this:

 

A dental health care professional is obligated to offer you the following, each and every time you meet:

-respect

-understanding

-kindness

-compassion

-honesty

-actions driven by integrity

-options for your unique situation

-financial sincerity

-time to process the information

-anxiety management strategies

-allow you to make a decision at your own pace

 

We believe that all the components on the above list would create the best dentist, not just your average dentist.

 

Difference between good dentist and best:

A good dentist is someone who has good knowledge of teeth. A dentist who is able to diagnose the problem and perform dental treatment to a satisfactory standard. A best dentist, however, understands that there is a human being sitting in front of them, often petrified and in a position lacking control. A best dentist understands that building a safe and honest space, where a healthy dentist-patient relationship can grow and flourish is the key. Dental treatment is performed in a sincere and professional manner, once trust has been established. The best dentist Geelong is free of judgement, preconceived notions or agendas. The best dentist is ready to serve and honour each person’s unique needs and sensitivities.

 

Corio Central Dental believes that you deserve best dentist in Geelong. Listen to what our patients have to say:

 

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

 

BOOK TO MEET THE BEST DENTIST IN GEELONG

 

 

 

 

photo of pregnant woman

Is it safe to have dental treatment when pregnant?

It’s extremely important to make sure you don’t have any infections or disease relating to your teeth and gums during pregnancy. Dental appointments during pregnancy can either be check-ups or actual treatment. Check-ups are very safe and an excellent idea, to have during your pregnancy. If you are experiencing pain already, it’s much better to have the problem resolved, instead of taking pain killers and antibiotics. Leaving tooth decay, gum disease and other oral health problems untreated can be harmful to you and your baby.

Does being pregnant put me at a higher risk of dental disease?

Many changes occur during pregnancy and yes, the risk of having dental problems increase.

Most common problems are

  • Hormones levels change during pregnancy and this can cause bleeding gums – a condition called gingivitis
  • Mouth ulcers can become more frequent
  • Pregnancy epulis – a lump on the gum can form during pregnancy
  • Vomiting can lead to higher exposure of teeth to acid, leading to sensitivity and/or pain
  • Increased sugar cravings can lead to more cavities
  • Less time for proper oral care can leave your mouth health neglected

pregnancy gingivitis

 

Corio Central Dental will often recommend making several dental appointments during pregnancy, so we can check the condition of your teeth and gums, recommend adjustments to your oral care routine or carry out any treatments needed. We are very proud to have an all female team and will do our very best to make you feel as comfortable as possible.

What should I do before getting pregnant?

Ensuring that you are free of dental disease is very important before becoming pregnant. Corio Central Dental recommends that you have a comprehensive examination and manage any urgent conditions, to prevent pain and infection in the next 12mths. Something as simple as an impacted wisdom tooth, which has never bothered you in the the past, may flare up during pregnancy and can cause a serious facial swelling. Preventing this is much better than managing the pain later.

Can I have dental x-rays during pregnancy?

If you are already experiencing pain and need urgent dental treatment to be done, x-rays be  unavoidable. The level of radiation is minimal and equivalent to about 20mins out in the sunshine. However, if you are just having a routine check- up, Corio Central Dental may suggest waiting until the end of your pregnancy to have the x-rays taken.

Is dental anaesthetic safe during pregnancy?

Most dental anaesthetics are safe during pregnancy. If you are in pain and needing urgent dental care, it is a good idea to ensure that you are numb enough and do not feel pain during the appointment. If you feel comfortable during the appointment, your body and your baby will be under much less stress. There are some anaesthetics which are not safe to use during pregnancy, so ensure you always make it clear to the dentist, that you are expecting.

Can I get a tooth pulled when pregnant?

Yes, it is possible to perform most dental treatments, like root canal treatment, extractions and fillings during pregnancy. Experiencing pain and infection for a long period of time is more detrimental to your and your baby’s health, then having a dental procedure which will help to eliminate the pain and infection.

Does a root canal affect pregnancy?

Root canal treatment may be necessary to save a very decayed tooth from being extracted. Root canal treatment can stop the pain right away, by removing the infected tissue. This time of treatment can be performed during pregnancy.

BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY