Plaque Disclosing Tablets
Instructions
- Periodontal Cleaning
- Extractions
- Fillings & Crowns
- Surgical Procedures
- ZOOM In-Chair Whitening
- Your Dental Sleep Appliance
- Cleaning Fixed Lingual Retainers
- Denture Care
- How to brush
- Plaque Disclosing Tablets
- Braces
- Mouth Guards
- Night Guard
- Tooth Whitening
- Invisalign Care
Periodontal Cleaning
After care instructions for Perio/gum deep cleaning
Periodontal cleaning (root planing) is sub-gingival, providing you with a thorough clean below the gum line. The following advice is useful after your appointment:
Gums changing
As your gums heal, the gums actually shrink and firm up.
You may notice some sensitivity.
You may also notice some gaps between your teeth, or that the gaps feel larger
As part of the healing process, your gums may shrink in some areas, and there may appear to be black triangles between your teeth.
As the gums firm up, they become healthy, which can help loose teeth, regain stability.
Tooth sensitivity
Teeth can feel sensitive to cold for about 1-2 weeks after the treatment.
Sensitive toothpaste can be used morning and night if needed.
Helping the healing process
To help with the healing process, doing warm salt water or Curasept rinses a few times a day is advised. You can do this for 1 week after the treatment if you like.
To ensure gum disease remains inactive, regular dental appointments are essential. This is important, as it helps to prevent bacteria from growing back under the gums.
Apart from cleaning and flushing out the bacteria, your gums are monitored to assess your body’s response to the treatment.
Extractions
Every extraction is different and each person responds differently. We encourage patients to pay attention to their own experience. The following advice will be useful in your recovery:
What to do directly after an extraction:
After an extraction you must keep firm pressure on the gauze swab provided. Keep this in place for approximately half an hour after leaving the surgery.
After half an hour, use a new piece of gauze provided by the dentist, remembering to keep firm pressure.
DO NOT rinse your mouth for at least 24 hours. Rinsing and spitting hard may cause the clot to come out of the wound and will promote bleeding and delay healing.
After 4 hours you may GENTLY swirl water around your mouth
If it continues to bleed, apply pressure on the wound with gauze or a handkerchief for half an hour to an hour.
If there is excessive bleeding contact the surgery on 9589 2675.
The day after extraction, rinse your mouth with lukewarm salt water 3 times a day, and continue this regime until the wound as healed.
Contact us if you have any concerns or problems.
What to avoid
Avoid smoking as it interferes with the healing process, and the site will take longer to heal. Smokers are more likely to get what is called a ‘dry socket’. If this occurs the wound will become very painful and you will need to see the dentist for a dressing,
Avoid hot foods and liquids, especially while still numb. When numbness has gone, choose lukewarm liquids and soft foods, and chew away from the wound.
Infection
Infection is uncommon, and if occurs, will usually present 3-4 days after extraction.
Good oral hygiene is extremely important in avoiding infections. Lukewarm salt water rinses 3 times a day, together with teeth and tongue brushing are part of good oral hygiene after extraction.
Lukewarm salt water rinse = 1teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water.
Fillings & Crowns
After care instructions for fillings & crowns
Fillings, single visit crowns (cerec), crowns and bridge work are all types of ‘restorative’ dental work. The following advice is useful after this kind of dental work:
Eating and Drinking:
Take care if having hot food or drink after treatment, as while you are numb you could burn your mouth. Make sure whatever you are having is lukewarm until the numbness has gone.
Numbness in your lips and gum may last a few hours, so chew food carefully and avoid chewing on the area where the filling/cerec/lab crown was done. This will help avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
You may drink, and eat on your filling/cerec/crown straight away
Sensitivity:
Some tooth sensitivity may be felt during the first couple of weeks after your filling/cerec/lab crown. It is quite normal for the tooth to feel sensitive and this should eventually settle down after a few weeks.
Sensitivity will depend on the size of the cavity and how close the cavity was to the nerve (excluding Root canal treated teeth). If you have been advised that the cavity was large or close to the nerve of the tooth, expect that it may take longer for the sensitivity to completely disappear after treatment.
Feeling normal to bite:
If your bite doesn’t feel normal i.e. if bite feels ‘high’ or it feels like you’re only biting on the one tooth after your filling/cerec/crown, please call us so we can make a quick appointment to adjust your bite. There is no charge for this appointment.
Temporary crowns:
When a lab crown is made the dentist will place a temporary plastic crown to get you by in the meantime. While these can look good and feel comfortable they will not last long. Make sure you have an appointment a few weeks later to place the permanent crown.
If the temporary crown breaks or comes off, contact us straight away. You may need to come in so we can make you another temporary crown. Losing a temporary crown may cause increased sensitivity or damage the prepared surface.
Looking after your restoration:
Make sure you take care of your filling/cerec/crown by following your regular daily routine – brushing twice a day and flossing. Your tooth has been fixed but you need to keep up good oral hygiene as to prevent decay.
Surgical Procedures
Every extraction is different and every person responds differently. The following advice will be useful in your recovery:
What to do directly after an extraction or surgical procedure:- After an extraction you must keep firm pressure on the gauze swab provided. Keep this in place for approximately half an hour after leaving the surgery.
- After half an hour, use a new piece of gauze provided by the dentist, remembering to keep firm pressure.
- DO NOT rinse your mouth out for at least 24 hours. Rinsing and spitting hard may cause the clot to come out of the wound and will promote bleeding and delay healing.
- After 4 hours you may GENTLY swirl water around your mouth
- If it continues to bleed, apply pressure on the wound with gauze or a handkerchief for half an hour to an hour.
- If there is excessive bleeding contact the surgery on 9589 2675.
- The day after extraction, rinse your mouth with lukewarm salt water 3 times a day and continue this regime until the wound has healed. Contact us if you have any concerns or problems.
What to avoid
- Avoid smoking as it interferes with the healing process, and the site will take longer to heal. Smokers are more likely to get what is called a ‘dry socket’. If this occurs the wound will become very painful and you will need to see the dentist for a dressing.
- Avoid hot foods and liquids, especially while still numb. When numbness has gone, choose lukewarm liquids and soft foods, and chew away from the wound.
- Restrict diet to soft foods and fluids for the first day or so and return to a normal diet as the swelling and discomfort subside.
Infection
- Infection is uncommon and if occurs will usually present 3-4 days after the extraction.
- Good oral hygiene is extremely important in avoiding infections. Lukewarm salt water mouth rinses 3 times a day, together with teeth and tongue brushing are part of good oral hygiene after extraction.
Lukewarm salt water rinse – 1 teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water
Swelling and pain management
- Swelling is a normal response after surgery and will usually peak after the first 2-3 days and decrease after the 4th day.
- Swelling varies greatly between people and can be significant. It can be minimised by applying ice packs to the face for 20-30 minutes in hourly intervals during the first 1-2 days.
- Full recovery is expected to take about 2 weeks.
Bruising and bleeding
- Bruising may occur as the swelling subsides. If a site bleeds following surgery, place a gauze pack directly on the wound and apply firm pressure for 30 minutes. If bleeding persists, please contact bc dental on 9589 2675.
Jaw stiffness
- The swelling associated with the surgery may affect the surrounding muscles and cause jaw stiffness and limited mouth opening. This may persist for at least a few weeks after surgery. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Stitches
- In some cases stitches are placed to assist in optimal wound healing. Your dentist will advise if any have been placed and whether you need to return for stitch removal. In many cases dissolvable stitches are used, and should dissolve 10-14 days following the procedure.
Zoom In-Chair Whitening
Home care instructions for ZOOM in-chair whitening
In your take home whitening kit you will receive the following:
- 2 x clear plastic trays made especially for your teeth
- 1 x syringe of whitening gel
- 1 x retainer box to store your whitening trays
- 1 x syringe of Relief Gel
- Colgate Pro Relief Toothpaste (desensitising tooth paste)
- If your models have been given to you, please store them for safe keeping
How to apply the whitening gel
After you have brushed and flossed your teeth:
- Remove the lid on the syringe and replace with a triangle tip using a twist and pull motion.
- Place a small drop into the space where each tooth will fit. Apply only where you want to whiten (typically up to the first molar).
- Place the trays over your teeth and gently press into position. Remove excess gel with a finger or cotton tip if it overflows.
- When finished, rinse your mouth and trays under cold water and store trays in the retainer box. Do not use hot water as it can warp the trays.
Some people find their gums peel around where the trays sit. This is just the dead layer of skin coming off, but can make the gums a little tender. This usually happens when you use too much solution.
Top-up whitening gel
The colour of your teeth will continue to brighten 72 hours after the procedure.
After the 72 hour period, if you want your teeth to be even whiter, use the top-up whitening gel. Alternatively, the top-up whitening gel can be kept for future touch-up of the colour.
Top-up gel can be used for up to 3 sessions.
Use 2 x daily for 15 minutes or 1x day for 30 mins.
After the ZOOM procedure, it’s normal for teeth to gradually regress somewhat in colour over time. The degree of regression can be affected by diet and lifestyle choices such as black coffee, red wine, tea, curry, beetroot juice, soy sauce, coke etc. It is recommended that you avoid eating and drinking heavily coloured foods and liquids for one week after the ZOOM in-office whitening procedure.
Tooth sensitivity/pain
During the first 48 hours after ZOOM treatment, some people can experience some tooth sensitivity or pain. This is normal and usually mild, but it can be worse in susceptible individuals.
Tooth sensitivity or pain following a ZOOM treatment should subside within 48 hours, but in rare cases can persist for longer periods of time.
Keep your trays safe so that you can use them again year after year. Whitening solution can be purchased directly from us as required.
If you experience ongoing sensitivity or pain or have any questions or concerns regarding whitening, contact bc dental on 03 9589 2675.
Your Dental Sleep Appliance
USER GUIDE FOR YOUR DENTAL SLEEP APPLIANCE
EXPECTED BENEFITS
Snoring
For some people snoring may diminish substantially on the first night of using the appliance. For most people, snoring will be present until the appliance is gradually adjusted forward to the correct position.
Unrefreshed sleep and daytime sleepiness
It is common for people who have suffered from snoring and sleep apnoea to have accumulated what is known as a “sleep debt”. Several nights of good quality sleep may be required (once the jaw is in the correct forward position) before you feel more refreshed with more energy. This improvement can continue over several weeks.
Breathing
If you have sleep apnoea, your partner may notice an improvement in your breathing pattern as the appliance is adjusted forward. Your breathing should be less disturbed, with a decrease in gasping, choking and pauses in breathing.
Protection of teeth
Many people who snore and have sleep apnoea clench and grind their teeth and are unaware that they do this. Damage to teeth and dental work from clenching and grinding mostly occurs during sleep. Your appliance provides the added benefit of total protection from the destructive forces of clenching and grinding.
ADAPTING TO YOUR APPLIANCE
The mouth is a very sensitive part of the body and initially the appliance may feel somewhat intrusive, causing you to wake an extra time during the night. If you wake during the night and wish to leave your appliance out, feel free to do so. Don’t feel you have to push yourself to sleep all night with the appliance from the start. If you get an hour or two of sleep using the appliance on the first night that can be considered a good start. For some people it is easier to build up use of the appliance over the first week until it is comfortable in the mouth and can be worn throughout the night. The general rule is the more hours you use the appliance, the easier it will get. The vast majority of people adapt to the appliance within one to two weeks such that it feels comfortable and unobtrusive in the mouth and are getting a more solid refreshing sleep. At that point you would rather sleep with the appliance than without it.
TEMPORARY SIDE-EFFECTS
Increased saliva
In the first week or two you may notice an increase in saliva – the brain reacts as if the device is food! This is a normal response and will diminish, with the appliance becoming far more comfortable with continued use.
Jaw discomfort
Follow the instructions you have been given for adjusting the appliance forward however stop making adjustments if there is any tooth or jaw pain that persists for several hours. Jaw pain can occasionally develop within the first week or two of receiving an appliance. This can be a result of excessive clenching as well as bringing the jaw forward a little too quickly.
Studies show that many people clench excessively during sleep in the initial period of wearing a new appliance. While this level of clenching will revert back to normal after adaptation to the appliance, there is the potential for jaw and muscle pain during this initial period.
If discomfort is present for a couple of hours following waking, this mostly diminishes over the next few days as you adapt to the appliance. Sometimes it may be necessary to wind back the appliance. If pain or discomfort is significant and persists, please call the clinic immediately – a simple adjustment may be required. You may need to leave the appliance out for a few days and reintroduce it in a more retracted position. You can then recommence winding the mechanism forward, at a slower rate, as advised by your doctor. Occasionally a short course of anti-inflammatory medication may be required.
Jaw joint problems can occur during the first few weeks of first using an appliance but usually do not recur after the initial period.
Tooth discomfort
It is normal to experience some minor tooth tenderness during the first few days of using an appliance. This is usually noticed when you take out the appliance following sleep and should disappear within 30 minutes and you would expect it to be no longer occurring after several days. If discomfort or pain persists beyond this, please contact the clinic – all that is usually required is a simple adjustment to the appliance.
Temporary change to the bite
When you first remove your appliance in the morning the bite (the way the upper and lower teeth fit together) should take less than 5 minutes to return to the usual position. For some people, the bite can take more than 15 minutes to return to its usual position after the dental sleep appliance is removed following a night’s sleep. This is usually a temporary side-effect and can be significantly helped by the use of bite tabs and several jaw exercises.
Exercises with Bite Tabs
The bite tabs are designed to exercise the jaw muscles and help the bite quickly return to its usual position.
After removing the dental sleep appliance in the morning, place the bite tab over the back teeth and squeeze together for 20 seconds with your jaw as far back as possible. Repeat a second time putting the bite tab on the other side. Also put the bite tab behind the top front teeth and clench down for 20 seconds with the lower jaw as far back as possible.
Jaw Exercises
If you are one of those people where the bite is taking more than 15 minutes to return to normal, please do the following exercises to help reposition the jaw.
Exercise One:
- Slide your jaw with the largest amount of backward and forward movement for 5 seconds each way
- Finish by clenching down on the back teeth with the jaw as far back as possible for 15 seconds
Exercise Two:
- Open the jaw as wide as possible and then close it
- Open the jaw, slide to the left and then continue moving the jaw in a circular path to the closed position and squeeze your back teeth together with the jaw as far back as possible
- Open the jaw, slide to the right and then continue moving the jaw in a circular path to the closed position and squeeze your back teeth together with the jaw as far back as possible
- Repeat each exercise twice
Please contact the clinic if you are experiencing any bite changes that persist during the day.
Removing your appliance
Some people wake and are surprised to find their appliance out of the mouth and lying somewhere nearby. This usually does not necessarily mean that the appliance is loose. In the initial weeks of receiving an appliance some people accidentally remove the appliance from the mouth while asleep and have no awareness of doing so. This problem usually disappears as you adapt to the appliance.
ADJUSTING YOUR APPLIANCE
Generally the appliance is set at 40-50% of the maximum forward position of the lower jaw and for most people the jaw is slowly moved forward, over several weeks, to around 70%. This will allow you to more easily adapt to the appliance and to minimize the potential for any side-effects. You will be given separate instructions on how to adjust your appliance.
How do you know when to stop adjusting your appliance?
1. If you have snoring but no sleep apnoea
If you are using your appliance just for snoring, then only make an adjustment forward if there is still an unacceptable level of snoring present. There is no need to make any further adjustment once the snoring is gone. The aim is to adjust the appliance the minimal amount that overcomes the snoring.
2. If you snore and also have sleep apnoea
Just because the snoring has gone does not necessarily mean that all the sleep apnoea is gone. It is possible to no longer snore and yet still have a degree of sleep apnoea. The aim is to continue the adjustments until you are waking feeling more refreshed, not sleepy during the day, and no disturbances observed with your breathing. If you have mild to moderate sleep apnoea the goal is to push the minimal distance forward to achieve this result. If you have severe apnoea the aim will be to go to the appliance bringing the jaw to the maximum forward position that is still comfortable.
SLEEP PHYSICIAN CONSULTATION
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnoea the first stage in using a dental appliance is to overcome any signs and symptoms you may have such as snoring, tiredness, and disturbances in breathing while asleep. When this is achieved, you may be referred to a sleep physician and for a possible follow up sleep study to objectively assess the improvement in your sleep apnoea.
FUTURE DENTAL TREATMENTIf you require any dental work in the future, please take your appliance along with you so that your dentist can ensure that the shape of the teeth is not significantly changed and that the fit of the appliance is not affected. Sometimes a simple adjustment to the appliance may be required.
MAINTENANCE AND HOME CARE
- Always clean your teeth before fitting the appliance in your mouth. This removes the invisible layer of plaque which contains bacteria.
- Clean the inside and outside of your appliance, after removal in the morning, with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste. Weekly baths in a denture cleaning material will help to keep the appliance fresh and stain free. Do not use warm or hot water as this can deform the appliance. Please note: Stersdent Active Plus powder has been found to be an effective and safe product for cleaning the appliance and can be used daily.
- If your appliance includes a key, please do not store the key with your appliance in the box as it can rust.
- Regularly inspect your appliance for any material degradation or cracks. Should you notice any problems please contact the clinic.
- Avoid exposing the appliance to excessive heat, including direct sunlight, as it could cause distortion.
- Beware of dogs – they love to chew dental appliances!
Please Note
- A follow up consultation will be organised after the fitting visit. It is essential that you bring your appliance to this appointment.
- It is important to have any problem that may develop rectified quickly. If you allow a problem to persist, without seeking assistance, it can become more difficult to rectify.
- It is your responsibility to call if any problems develop. It is our responsibility to schedule an appointment as soon as practicable.
Adjusting Your Appliance
When you first receive your dental sleep appliance it is generally set at 50 – 60% of the maximum forward position of the lower jaw. Most people will need to adjust their appliance, thereby moving the lower jaw forward, to achieve the maximum benefit.
It is recommended that you do not adjust your appliance forward for the first …… days. This initial period is for adapting to your appliance and to minimise the possibility of any teeth, muscle or jaw discomfort.
The starting position is ……. Turns from the furthest back position of the mechanism.
Make one clockwise turn every …… days as long as there is no pain or discomfort.
Instructions on number of turns:
……………………………………………………….
Please note that each clockwise 360 degree turn only brings the jaw forward one third of a millimetre so it usually takes multiple turns to notice a change.
For Snoring Only
If you are using your appliance just for snoring, then only adjust if there is still an unacceptable level of snoring present. The aim is to bring the jaw forward the minimum amount that overcomes the snoring.
For Snoring and Sleep Apnoea
Adjustments will decrease your snoring as well as other symptoms you may have such as sleepiness, unrefreshed sleep, gasping, choking and pauses in breathing. Feel free to make further adjustments if symptoms persist and there are no side-effects.
Please Note:- The goal for people with snoring, or mild sleep aproea, is to bring the jaw forward the minimal distance that overcomes the snoring and tiredness. This will minimise the possibility of any side effects.
If you have significant sleep aproea you may need to move the jaw forward as far as you can manage.
- When you first use your appliance you can put the upper and lower components in separately and then bring the jaw forward to connect them. After you have done several adjustments this may no longer be possible. You will need to place the upper in position over the teeth, connect the lower to it, and then bring the lower jaw forward and close into the lower. This can also be done in the reverse order by first connecting the lower first over the teeth, connecting the upper to it and then bringing the lower jaw forward and close into the upper.
If snoring and sleep aproea returns
As we get older, and if we put on weight, the snoring and tiredness can return. This can also occur if the appliance loses its firm fit. Please do not hesitate to contact the clinic if this occurs. It is often necessary to make a simple adjustment for the appliance to be effective again.
Cleaning Fixed Lingual Retainers
CLEANING BEHIND FIXED LINGUAL RETAINERS
One of the most challenging things about having a permanent retainer is keeping it clean. Retainers that are bonded behind the teeth look nice and do their job pretty much without your help. Unfortunately they also tend to accumulate plaque and require more time and effort when you are flossing.
There are several ways to floss bonded retainers attached to every tooth, which ever method suits you best, make sure you continue to brush gently right down to the gum
Interdental brushes or “picks” that fit between the teeth are one of our favourites! Some of our most favourites from this selection are shown below. If possible get a trial pack with many sizes. We generally recommend starting with the smallest size then moving up till you find the size that fits snuggly between the teeth.
Picksters, TP brushes and Interbrush are examples of interdental brushes
Floss threaders are little plastic needles that can be used to help direct floss between the teeth and under your retainer wire. Once the floss is under the wire, it can be moved up and down the sides of the adjacent teeth to remove plaque as normal. However – you’ll need to re-thread the floss between every individual tooth.
SuperflossTM is a precut piece of floss on which one end has been plasticized by the manufacturer. This can be purchased at most pharmacies and bcdental. The stiff end makes it easier to thread the floss between the teeth.
YouTube link showing flossing using a Floss threader: https://youtu.be/6kWx2awOMKQ
Water Pick; many patients find improved ease using a water pick, (e.g. the Sonicare AirFloss). It is much easier for patients to clean around their braces & fixed wires with this tool, but is not a replacement for conventional interdental cleaning with floss or brushes.
And, importantly – make sure you maintain your regular dental visits
Denture Care
We’ve put together some tips that will help you get the most out of your dentures, and a complimentary denture bath to help keep your dentures clean.
A daily denture care routine will help to minimise odour and stains, keep your dentures looking like new and help them last longer.
Insertion and removalYour dentist will show you how to put in and take out your denture. Feel free to ask them questions. Make sure you are comfortable with putting them in and taking them out before you leave the clinic.
Remember, never use excessive force to get your dentures in or out.
FunctionYour new denture may feel strange, even if you have worn dentures before. This is normal and happens because your mouth takes time to adapt.
When you first eat with your new denture, start with soft foods (e.g. lightly cooked vegetables).
Take small bites and chew slowly. If you have natural teeth, try to bite with them rather than the artificial ones. If possible, chew on both sides at the same time.
If you find the denture isn’t staying in well or food is getting caught under the plate, try Polident paste.
OvernightYou should remove your dentures before going to bed each night. This gives your mouth a chance to rest and will help stop you grinding your teeth while you sleep.
MaintenanceFood debris and plaque need to be cleaned from all denture surfaces daily. A quick rinse with water after every meal is essential. Clean your dentures using a soft toothbrush and mild soap and water or denture paste. Standard toothpaste is not recommended. Clean your dentures over a hand-basin half filled with water to prevent breakage if dropped.
At least once a week soak your denture in the denture bath with Sterident for one hour.
Brush your gums, tongue and palate every morning with a soft toothbrush before you insert your dentures. This stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.
If your denture breaks or is damaged, stop wearing it straight away. Do not try to repair it, bend it or modify it. Call 9589-2685 for an appointment to fix it.
Regular maintenance is important to help prevent further issues or pain, so keep up your 6 monthly check and cleans at bcdental to make sure your whole mouth is healthy.
If you find that your denture has build up (tartar or calculus), soak it in white vinegar (1 part) and water (4 parts) in your denture bath. If you still can’t remove the build up, call us and make an appointment to have your denture repolished.
Mouth sorenessYour mouth may become a little sore under your new denture. If this happens, contact bc dental to arrange to have your denture adjusted.
If the soreness is severe it may help to remove the denture for at least part of the day. However, please wear the denture for a few hours before your appointment so we can work out where the adjustment is required.
Remember, do not adjust or try to repair your dentures.
Dentures should be well fitted and comfortable when you chew and your breath should be fresh. If you have any pain or problems with your mouth or dentures or if you need further information on denture cleaning and care contact us.
How to Brush
Often taken for granted, the monotonous task of brushing and flossing our teeth daily has never been more important in order to avoid gum disease and the risks gum disease can place on our overall health. Gum disease, which has been linked to serious health complications and causes various dental problems that are often avoidable.
- Start with the upper left molars (back teeth) concentrating on the front surface of the tooth – you will be working in a clockwise direction from there. The average toothbrush head will cover 2 to 3 teeth at a time.
- Hold the toothbrush parallel to your teeth, and point the bristles in the direction of the gum, so they are resting slightly below the gum line. Apply slight pressure to the bristles so they are slightly bent.
- Gently move the brush in a circular motion for approximately 20 brush strokes, or roughly 10 seconds. When brush strokes are complete, roll the bristles away from the gum tissue in a sweeping motion.
- Continue the above steps until all of the front surfaces of the top and bottom teeth have been cleaned.
- Moving on to the inside surfaces of the teeth, repeat steps 2 to 5 for the upper and lower premolars and molars.
- When you are ready to clean the inside surface of the front teeth, take the tip of the toothbrush, and in a flicking motion, direct the toothbrush from the gum line down. Do this 2 to 3 times.
- Follow step 8 for the inside of the lower front teeth, but this time the flick will be directed up, and again away from the gum line. Do this 2 to 3 times.
- Brush the biting surface of the upper and lower premolars and molars in a back and forth motion.
- Gently brush your tongue and the inside of your cheeks.
- Finish by rinsing with water.
Plaque Disclosing Tablets
- Use the plaque disclosing tablets after brushing and flossing.
- Chew a disclosing tablet and allow it to mix with your saliva. Swish the mixture around in your mouth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out.
- Gently rinse your mouth with water, and examine your teeth for plaque coloured by the dye which will look bright red. Be mindful of the red dye by spitting gently – you don’t want to get the dye on your clothes.
- Brush the stained areas thoroughly to complete removal of all dental plaque. Next time you brush your teeth, pay special attention to these areas.
- Use disclosing tablets regularly until you don’t find any stained areas of dental plaque formation after you brush and floss.
- Recheck after some weeks.
Please call us if you have any questions on 9589 2675.
Braces
Today we placed braces on your teeth in order to give you an attractive smile and nice appearance. Some important rules should be followed to make your orthodontic treatment as quick and easy as possible.
Food to avoid while wearing Braces- Any hard, crunchy or sticky foods
- Any type of nuts
- Apples or other hard fruits
- Caramel
- Chewing Gum
- Hard lollies or toffee
- Hard vegetables such as carrots or celery unless cut into small pieces
- NO chewing ice
- Pizza Crust
- Popcorn
- Potato chips, pretzels and other hard foods
- Steak—Unless tender and cut into small pieces
If you had build-ups placed at your appointment your back teeth will not touch all the way together. These build-ups will allow your teeth to move more quickly and keep you from biting off your lower braces. You may feel some difficulty eating initially so a soft diet is recommended. Your back teeth will grow closer together each day and allow you to eat more normally. The build-ups will be removed as soon as possible and rarely remain on for the full treatment time.
Clean Teeth and Braces at all times
- Brush teeth and braces with a soft toothbrush.
- Teeth are to be brushed after eating – including after light snacks.
- Make sure to floss your teeth at least once per day. You have received instruction on how to use floss threaders to make flossing around your braces quick and easy.
- Check teeth after brushing to make sure they are clean. Leave no debris at the gum line or the hard to reach areas. These spots are vulnerable and if not clean will cause decay, white spots or brown spots.
Remember – braces do not cause white lines around your teeth- it’s the food particles and plaque around the braces that cause this decalcification. Please keep your teeth meticulously clean to avoid decay.
Take care of your Braces- Do not break or lose parts of your braces.
- If you knock one of your braces off please call the office on 95892675.
Mouth Guards
Home care for your Mouth guard:
Stoked you have a new mouthguard! It’s been made just for you and the snug fit means you’ll have the best possible protection while you enjoy the game. What’s next?
Wearing your Mouth guard
- Sounds silly, but it’s true – some people just don’t wear their mouth guard. Wear your mouth guard, play hard and keep your teeth!
- To place your mouth guard put it in your mouth and bite into it with your top set of teeth. Move it around with your fingers and tongue until it fits your teeth comfortably.
- If it does not feel comfortable contact us and we’ll make some adjustments. There is no out-of-pocket cost for an adjustment to a mouth guard made by bc dental.
- Clean your mouthguard in cold water or mouthwash before and after each use; brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Store your mouth guard in the mouth guard container it came in and keep it out of heat.
- Replace your mouth guard when it develops holes or doesn’t fit your teeth comfortably.
- Tip – ensure your contact details are easily visible on your container so it can be returned if found.
Night Guard
This night guard is designed to protect your teeth from grinding but is unlikely to stop your grinding habit.
Grinding and clenching are most commonly caused by stress or posture-related neck and back issues. In order to stop grinding/clenching we advise you seek additional therapeutic help from your osteopath, physiotherapist, chiropractor or myotherapist.
Using your night guard.- Your night guard is designed to fit to the lower teeth at the front of your mouth.
- Fit your night guard as you go to bed. It should be snug but not uncomfortable.
- Remove it in the morning, and rinse it in cold water. You may brush your night guard but do not use toothpaste as this will roughen the rubber surface.
- It is advised to use a Sterident tablet once a week to keep the night splint as clean as possible.
- After removing the night guard in the morning, your bite may feel different – often the front teeth don’t touch. If this is the case, take two of the pieces of rubber supplied and bite on these pieces with moderate force 3-5 times, for 20-30 seconds each time. It is important that you bite on the rubber pieces with your back teeth and both sides at the same time. This should help settle your bite. If your bite does not feel normal by the afternoon, discontinue use and call bc dental.
- It can take a while to get used to wearing your Night Guard, the first few nights you may wake up and find it out of your mouth. Persist! You have the smallest and most comfortable guard available and without it your teeth will suffer.
- Your night guard may become loose over time. If this happens there is a small risk of inhaling it. Should you feel your night guard has become loose or is ill fitting please discontinue use and contact us.
- Only wear your night guard in times of stress or when you are aware of clenching or grinding throughout the day. If your muscles have been relieved and you are aware that you are no longer clenching or grinding, try to stop using it.
Please bring your night guard with you to your appointments.
Periodontal Cleaning
In your whitening kit you will receive the following:
- 2 x clear plastic trays that have been custom-made to fit over your teeth
- 3 x syringes of whitening gel
- 1 x retainer box to store your whitening trays
- If your models have been given to you, please store them for safe keeping
After you have brushed and flossed your teeth:
- Twist and pull the lid on the syringe and replace with the triangle-shaped tip provided.
- Disperse a small drop into the space where each tooth will fit. Ensure that you only put the solution where you want to whiten. This means the part of the tray that in contact the “smiling” surface of your teeth. Most people only whiten the front 12 teeth.
- Dry your teeth with a cloth and “suck air” over your teeth to dry them even more.
- Place the trays over your teeth and gently press into position. If any excess solution squeezes out of the top of your trays, you have used too much solution. Remove the excess solution with your finger or a cotton tip. Excess gel can irritate your gums and should be avoided.
- When you have completed whitening, rinse your mouth AND your trays under COLD water and place them in the retainer box provided until you’re ready to whiten again.
Some people find their gums peel around the trays, this usually happens when too much solution is used. This is just a dead layer of skin coming off, but can make the gums a little tender temporarily.
DAY WHITE- Day white is generally used for patients who don’t suffer from sensitive teeth.
- On the first day, wear your whitening trays for 20 mins. If no sensitivity occurs then you can increase your time, usually up to 1 hr x day.
- Nite white is a milder solution used for patients with sensitive teeth.
- On the first day, wear your whitening trays for 30 mins. If no sensitivity occurs then you can increase your time, ideally at least 1 hr x day. You can also try wearing your trays overnight if the sensitivity does not occur – we do not usually recommend this but some patients have found they get a better result trying this approach.
- Each individual’s sensitivity level can vary. If sensitivity occurs decrease your whitening time and use sensitive toothpaste such as Colgate sensitive pro relief or Sensodyne.
- You can keep whitening until you have reached your desired colour – generally between 5-14 days.
- It is recommended that you avoid eating and drinking heavily coloured foods and liquids for two hours after using whitening solution.
- If you drink coffee, red wine, tea, coke, etc. your teeth will take up more stain, so sip water while doing so in order to maintain your whiteness.
- Keep your trays safe so that you can use them again year after year. Whitening solution can be purchased directly from us as required.
Please contact us on 9589-2675 should you have any questions or concerns regarding whitening.
Invisalign
Getting your teeth straightened is exciting! The following advice is useful for patients with Invisalign.
What next:- Your teeth will feel tender after your first Invisalign trays are placed. This is normal – you might like to take some anti-inflammatory medication such as Neurofen to help with the pressure or tenderness.
- Wear your aligners as much as possible. The more you wear them, the faster your teeth will move to the desired position. Your teeth will also get used to the pressure faster and will not feel tender anymore.
- Minimum wear is 22 hours a day
- It is important to wear trays to bed. This will be the longest continuous time period for wearing your aligners and is important for teeth movement.
- You may take your aligners out to eat, drink, brush and floss your teeth.
- Usually you see the dentist every 6 weeks and are given 3 sets of aligners to be changed every 2 weeks. This may vary occasionally so be guided by your dentist’s instructions.
- Always book your follow-up appointment to make sure your Invisalign treatment is monitored and completed by the desired date.
- You can drink water while wearing your aligners, as water is clear and will not stain your aligners.
- You can clean your aligners. The easiest way is to give them a gentle brush when you are brushing your teeth. Best to use a soft tooth brush and no toothpaste as it is abrasive and may scratch your aligners.
- Do not rinse them in hot water as it may warp the material your aligners are made of.
- When putting aligners in remember to bite down on the rubber pieces you’ve been given to make sure the aligners are seated in the correct position.
- When taking aligners out, use the case given to you on the first appointment. This will help to ensure you don’t lose them.
- It is very easy when eating out, for your plate to be taken away and thrown out with leftover food with aligners still on them!
- Contact us if you do lose a set or sets of aligners. You may need an appointment earlier than your scheduled visit.
- The dentist may glue small plastic bumps on your teeth. If one comes off don’t worry, but please call the surgery to let us know.
- Tip – make sure your contact details are clearly visible on your aligner case.