When it comes to the matter of how to get healthy gums and teeth, prevention of problems is always better than cure. But the good news is that if you catch gum disease in its earliest stages there is a good chance your dentist can help you reverse it.
Healthy gums are essential for strong, healthy teeth. Gums keep the teeth in place, give you a solid bite and preserve facial harmony. But, due to different factors it is possible for gum health to be compromised. So what can affect the health of your gums? There are various factors that can interfere with gum health but in the majority of cases we find gum disease is caused by poor oral hygiene. Managing gum disease can be the difference between losing and keeping your teeth. Medical conditions Medical conditions such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS can weaken the gums and make them prone to infection. Previous trauma in the mouth can also affect gum health. Hormonal changes Hormonal changes, particularly in girls and women, can affect the health of the gums and make them susceptible to infections. Poor dental hygiene habits Not brushing along the gum line and not flossing regularly can allow plaque to build up on your gums. Over time this plaque develops into a calcified substance called tartar, which can only be removed by your dentist. The bacteria in your mouth will multiply and cause an infection.
The early stages of gum disease may not be noticeable but you may see some redness or swelling in your gums. They may also bleed a little when you floss or brush too vigorously and generally be a little sensitive. If you experience any of these symptoms it is important to see your dentist, to prevent the problem from developing further into periodontitis. Periodontitis is more advanced gum disease that affects the soft tissues and fibres in your mouth. When gum disease reaches this stage it is possible to stop the damage from spreading but not likely that your dentist can reverse the effects. Periodontitis is usually accompanied by pain but some people still do not get to the dentist before it has become advanced. When it advances, it affects the bone that holds the soft tissue and teeth and you could experience bone loss. Periodontitis may also cause your teeth to loosen in your mouth. When your teeth drift out of position and start moving you can expect to experience further bone loss. So how can you look after your gums and ensure they create a solid base for your teeth? Here are some top tips for healthy gums no matter your age: Floss every day Most dentists advocate flossing twice daily and we also think that’s a great idea but if you know you won’t do it day and night, just pick once a day and commit to it. Flossing once a day is better than not flossing at all. Brush twice a day Millions of bacteria breed in your mouth while you are asleep so it is important t clean your mouth before and after sleeping. Use a soft bristled toothbrush and make sure you hold it at a 45-degree angle between the teeth and the gum line so you can remove any plaque that is caught between them. Live a healthy lifestyle Avoiding food with lots of sugar and fizzy drinks can help you manage the amount of sugar your teeth are exposed to. Make sure you eat a diet rich in calcium and leafy green vegetables, to support the growth of strong healthy teeth and gums. Managing a healthy lifestyle will also make you stronger to deal with infections and can help you heal quicker should you end up developing one. Still have questions about gum health or need more tips for healthy gums? Our experts are here to help. Contact us for an appointment today: (03) 5995 3819.
Tooth decay is the leading dental problem in Australian children but thanks to the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), eligible children can receive preventative treatment and claim benefits. Regular check ups and early intervention is necessary to ensure your kids keep their teeth for a lifetime, and Medicare removed the financial barriers that prevent parents from seeking professional dental treatment. Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions about the Child Dental Benefits Schedule and how it can keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy.
Medicare makes certain child dental benefits available to eligible children between the ages of 2 and 17. These benefits are extended to families on the receiving end of other benefits and enable families to claim up to $1052 per child over two successive calendar years. Your kids dental benefit begins from the time he or she has the first dental treatment. If you do not reach your $1000 threshold in the first year, it will be carried over to the second year if your child is still eligible.
Routine check ups and cleaning is covered by the scheme, allowing parents and their kids to identify the early signs of dental decay and get treatment. Repairs to cracked teeth and fissure sealing, fillings and root canals for eligible children are also included. General x rays and extractions are also covered by the scheme.
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule excludes any treatments performed in a hospital. It also excludes orthodontic and cosmetic procedures. You will not be able to claim from the schedule if you have claimed for the treatment under your private health insurance. It is always a good idea to find out about any potential exclusions from your dentist before you start a treatment plan. Mention that you are claiming child benefits when you make your appointment and ask the dentist any questions you may have so you arrive knowing what to expect.
Studies indicate that at least one in four Australian children has untreated tooth decay. When left untreated tooth decay can result in tooth loss, but by maintaining regular dental check ups and treating any signs of decay early on, you can prevent further complications later on in life. Your dentist will remove any plaque or tartar build-up from your child’s teeth, and also coach him or her on good dental hygiene habits. Regular reminders are a great way to get your child to follow good oral hygiene practices early on.
You can choose to consult a public dental clinic or a private dentist. If you do opt for a public dental clinic, all services under the CDBS will be covered and you won’t have to pay out of pocket. If you choose a private dentist, you may need to settle the account and claim the money back. Need assistance understanding child dental benefits better or want to claim for your family? Contact us for an appointment today: (03) 5995 3819 ..
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