Author: admin@dental

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give much thought to how you brush your teeth, beyond squirting on some toothpaste and scrubbing your teeth back and forth. But as your dentist will tell you, how you brush your teeth matters a great deal, with how often you brush, how long you brush, the kind of technique and the toothbrush you use are all major influences on the effectiveness of your brushing.

To gain the maximum benefit from brushing, you should brush for at least two minutes morning and night, using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head and a flexible neck. The advantage of these toothbrushes is that they remove the plaque and debris from your teeth without damaging your teeth and gums.

It’s all in the technique

If you are uncertain about your brushing technique, check with your dentist at your next dental visit and he/she may give you more information and tips and show you the most effective way of brushing.

Top Brushing Tip

While it may seem strange at first to brush your tongue, doing so actually reduces the bacteria in your mouth and helps your breath stay fresh. All you need to do is push the bristles on the tongue and scrape gently forward.
When you have finished brushing, try to spit out the toothpaste and don’t rinse with water. Leaving some toothpaste on your teeth is a really great way to give your teeth some extra ongoing protection.

Choice of Toothbrush

If limited dexterity is an issue, you might consider using a powered toothbrush. They can be programmed to run for two minutes, making keeping to the correct length of brushing time easy. If you’re not sure which type of brush will work for you or your family, check with your dentist.

General tips

Tempting as it is to think that pressing harder on your teeth equals a better clean, the fact is that too much pressure can damage your gums and tooth enamel. If the bristles are wearing out on your toothbrushes well before the three-month mark, you’re pressing too hard and you should ask your dentist to show you a less damaging technique. It’s also a good idea to replace your brush, whether manual or powered, when either the bristles start to spread apart, or every three months, whichever comes first.

Come see our dental staff for more information and effective brushing techniques for you and your family. Call us on 40323236 and book an appointment to see one of our friendly and helpful dentists.

 

Is it good to have your teeth cleaned?

Yes! Routine dental cleanings help remove stubborn and bacteria-filled plaque and tartar from your teeth. This is important because, if left too long, plaque and tartar can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious damage.

What happens during a teeth cleaning?

During a cleaning, your dental hygienist will do a full periodontal assessment of your gums, note any recession, periodontal pocketing, and gently remove plaque and tartar from around your gum line, as well as in between your teeth. After your teeth are tartar-free, we’ll polish your teeth with a high-tech electric brush and end by flossing between teeth. We always perform an oral cancer screening at each visit. We may also recommend a prescription fluoride treatment or mouthwash if you are cavity prone or have chronic tooth sensitivity.

Is dental cleaning painful?

If it’s been a while since your last professional cleaning, your gums might bleed a bit during your cleaning. However, our dentists are very gentle and we’ll take it slow based on your needs and comfort level. If your mouth feels a bit sore after your cleaning, an over-the-counter pain reliever will do the trick.

Are cavities a problem for baby teeth?

Even though baby teeth are temporary, decay and cavities can cause life-long damage, including infections and orthodontic issues. Don’t ignore the health of baby teeth!

Should my child get a dental sealant?

Sealants are most effective when they’re placed right after permanent molars come in. This is usually around age 6 for the first molars and age 12 for the second molars.

When should I schedule my child’s first dental visit?

Make sure your child has their first dentist visit by age one or 6 months after their first tooth comes in, whichever comes first.

How should I take care of my child’s teeth?

During infancy, use a soft cloth to clean their gums. Once their first tooth comes in, make sure to schedule your child a dental check-up and start a routine of brushing their teeth before bed. Most importantly, avoid giving your baby juice or fizzy drinks in their bottle. Even with proper brushing, sugary drinks like these are the leading cause of tooth decay.

How does Dermal Fillers work?

In order for your muscles to contract, your nerves send out a neurotransmitter, causing your muscle cells to contract or shorten. But when Dermal Fillers is injected, it temporarily prevents the release of this neurotransmitter, reducing muscle contractions and allowing your muscles to relax and become less stiff.

Why do dentists offer Dermal fillers?

Many people are surprised to learn they can get Dermal Filler treatments from a dentist. In reality, dentists have been administering these treatments for many years for both aesthetic and therapeutic results. Dentists have a lot of training in the study of head, face, and neck anatomy, which is very beneficial when planning a dermal filler treatment. Additionally, dentists administer injections on a daily basis, making them uniquely qualified to make your treatment even more comfortable.

What to expect from your Dermal Filler treatment?

When you get Dermal Fillers at Cairns Dental Boutique, it looks like you haven’t had Fillers!

Here’s how we do it:

• As with any treatment, our focus is on ensuring that you’re relaxed.
• Dermal Fillers is a quick and simple treatment. You won’t feel much more than a quick pinch and that’s it!
• Every treatment is customized to meet your specific needs and goals.
• The comfortable procedure takes about 10 minutes.
• Most patients will see or feel improvements within a few days.
• The effects of your treatment will last around 3-6 months or more, but vary from person to person.

What causes stained teeth?

Coffee and tea

Darkly pigmented foods

Smoking and tobacco use

The natural aging process

Your genetics

Who can get teeth whitening?

Almost anyone can benefit from teeth whitening, but results will vary from person to person depending on their unique situation. We typically do not recommend teeth whitening to pregnant or lactating women, children under 16 years of age, or those with allergic reactions to teeth bleaching whitening agents. We’ll help you understand whether or not you are a good candidate for treatment.

Is teeth whitening good for sensitive teeth?

If you have sensitive teeth, be sure to avoid over-the-counter whitening treatments. Your dentist can recommend a professional treatment, that will help you avoid irritation and ensure a comfortable and successful experience.

We love to make you smile

At Cairns Dental Boutique, we design smile improvements focused on increasing your confidence and health. Your teeth whitening treatment will be grounded in natural aesthetics. More importantly, we’ll take extra time to understand exactly what you want and help you achieve your perfect smile. We look forward to helping you smile!

What are the signs of an infected tooth?

Your dentist is the best person to diagnose your need for a root canal, but a few signs to keep an eye out for include:

• Constant toothache
• Lingering tooth sensitivity
• Sore and sensitive jawbone
• Chipped or fractured tooth (even small breaks and chips in your teeth can lead to advanced decay and infection)

How long does a root canal take?

A root canal typically takes about 60-90 minutes, and it’s possible your root canal treatment will be divided into two separate appointments. We’ll help you understand what to expect.

How much does it cost to get a root canal?

Dental insurance may cover a portion of your root canal treatment. Before scheduling your treatment, we’ll outline the cost as well. Third Party Payment Options through After Pay and Zip Pay are available to our patients if needed.

Are root canals safe?

Yes. Root canals are proven to stop infection and save teeth. Roughly 25 million root canals are performed every year. There is no scientific evidence supporting the connection between root canal-treated teeth and disease or problems elsewhere in the body.

How do I know Cairns Dental Boutique is the best place for my dental treatment?

Getting dental treatment is a big decision, and it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re getting the best quality, success and value for your money.

Cairns Dental Boutique stands out in two very distinct ways: We only use high quality materials, such as titanium support bars, and our doctors focus on one thing—excellent dental care. We also believe that our dedication to our patients is why so many people have chosen Cairns Dental Boutique.

Dental Treatment is often very expensive, does Cairns Dental Boutique offer any payment plans?

Cairns Dental Boutique offers excellent dental care at the most reasonable costs and thanks to precise technology and our complete treatment solutions, the cost of dental care is much less than it was even a few years ago. However, many of our patients still need financing options to help pay for the procedure. During your consultation, our clinicians can explore strategies that fit your budget. Together, we’ll explore options available. We also do accept third party payments such as Afterpay and Zip Pay.

Is my dental treatment going to be painful?

At Cairns Dental Boutique, we do everything we can to make you as comfortable as possible. We understand that some patients put dentists right up there next to snakes and spiders when it comes to the things we fear most but be assured that you are in safe hands and we will take keep you at ease and total comfort throughout your treatment and visit.

We do have several options including Nitrous Oxide Sedation (links to Nitrous Oxide page) to help you feel relaxed and comfortable during your treatment.  Most surgery is carried out with simple, safe, local analgesia. Afterwards, most of our patients report that they experienced far less pain than anticipated

I haven’t been to the dentist in a long time and my teeth are in a really bad shape. I feel embarrassed to go to the dentist, what do I do?

In our experience, most people feel so embarrassed to go to the dentists and do not want to be judged or lectured.

“Please don’t be embarrassed about going to get help. I say this on here all the time. Dentists are nearly always “doers” by nature. We don’t really care how things got to where they are, we just start trying to work out how to “fix” things” Dr Roy.

At, Cairns Dental Boutique, our dentists are experienced in treating patients with complex needs, dental anxieties and also patients with dental treatment failures and complications. The best way to find out and start your journey to stronger teeth and better oral health is for you to visit us for a consultation.

How much does a dental crown cost?

The cost of a dental crown will vary based on your health and individual needs. We’ll help you understand the cost of your crown before your treatment. We also accept third party payment options like Afterpay and Zip pay to help our patients.

I have a damaged crown, can you help?

If you have a crown that’s cracked, feels loose or has fallen out, we can help. We may need to bond the crown back in place and other times a new crown may be the right choice. Our crowns are designed to be a perfect fit and when taken care of well can last to 15+ years.

Getting a crown in just 1 visit at Cairns Dental Boutique

Our team will ensure your time with us is comfortable and personalized to your needs. All our crowns are created with biocompatible materials and placed using minimally-invasive and gentle techniques.

1. We’ll prepare the surface of your tooth, clearing away any decay and reshaping the tooth
2. Our team will take a 3D scan of your mouth so we can customize the crown to your teeth – no more gaggy impressions!
3. Using our high-tech milling machine, your permanent crown will be created and placed within a day.
4. We’ll carefully place the crown and ensure the perfect fit

We believe going to the dentist should be a positive and empowering experience. Our entire staff is dedicated to helping you know the joy of a happy, healthy smile

1. Is Nitrous Oxide safe to use on children?
The Australian Dental Board states that Nitrous Oxide is considered generally acceptable and safe to use on children. Many children show enthusiasm for using the gas and report feeling a tingling or warming sensation. The laughing gas can help expedite procedures that are not particularly uncomfortable but require the child not to move for extended periods.

2. Does Nitrous Oxide make you laugh?
Contrary to its name, laughing gas does not necessarily make you laugh. The nitrous oxide slows down your nervous system to make you feel less inhibited. You may feel light-headed, tingly, or even heaviness in your arms or legs. Ultimately, you should be calm and comfortable throughout the procedure. You might even giggle a time or two.

3. Will I develop any side- effects from the gas?
Though some of the commonly listed side effects from the gas are headaches, sleepiness, sweating, shivering and nausea; most patients do not experience any reactions to laughing gas. The dentist administers and controls the nitrous oxide levels as to keep you comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure.

4. Can I eat normally before the procedure?
Patients are requested to eat something light an hour or two before the procedure, as a big meal just before the procedure may cause vomiting or nausea.

5. What is Laughing Gas Used For?
Our dentists at Cairns Dental Boutique recommend the use of nitrous oxide for patients with the following indications:
Patients who are fearful, anxious, or uncooperative
Patients with special health care needs
Patients with gag reflexes that interfere with dental care
Patients who do not respond adequately to local anaesthesia
Younger patients who must undergo lengthy dental procedures

6. Who Shouldn’t Use Laughing Gas?
While nitrous oxide is considered a safe and effective sedative, it might not be the right choice for you. Please let our staff and the dentist know if you have any of the following conditions:
currently in the first trimester of pregnancy
a history of respiratory illnesses like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
a vitamin B-12 deficiency
a history of substance abuse
an enzyme condition methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency
a history of mental health conditions

Laughing gas can be a useful tool for easing anxiety and pain during dental procedures. If you think you might benefit from using nitrous oxide for your next appointment, please call us on 07 40323236 and talk to our dentist about available options.

What is TMJ disorder?

The TMJ is the joint that allows you to speak and chew normally. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is caused by problems in your jaw, facial muscles, and joints

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?

Be on the lookout for common TMJ symptoms, including:
Chronic headaches and migraines
Jaw joint pain or locking
Clicking sound in your jaw
Discomfort while chewing
Ear and sinus pain

What causes TMJ disorder?

Your jaw disk erodes or moves out of proper alignment
The cartilage of your TMJ is damaged by arthritis
Damage caused by a blow or other impact
Teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching
Arthritis
Certain connective tissue disorders
Stress

How to treat TMJ pain?

Dermal Fillers is one of our most-recommended treatments for TMJ disorder. Tight muscles are often the cause or a contributing factor to your TMJ issues. They relax your jaw muscles, eliminates tension in your mouth, and prevents grinding and clenching.
Thanks to Dermal Fillers, many of our patients are now headache free after decades of suffering. Even if your migraines or headaches are more complex and involve more than just your muscles, Dermal Fillers can eliminate the portion of your pain that comes from these muscles and might offer you some relief from your suffering.

Other TMJ treatment options

Occlusal Splints — Custom-made and advanced “night guards” prevent clenching and reposition your jaw to a more favorable and comfortable position.
Invisalign — If a bite issue is the cause of your TMJ pain, we may recommend Invisalign to fix the alignment of your jaw.
Surgery — In rare situations, you may require a more advanced surgical treatment to correct the issue. If that’s the case, we can refer you to someone who can provide the care you need.