Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Family dental care in Glen Iris

Archives for August 2019

Tooth Clenching and Grinding Treatment in Glen Iris – Botox & Night Guards

Tooth clenching and grinding—also known as bruxism—can occur unconsciously, whether you are awake or asleep. It often goes unnoticed but can result in physical pain and significant dental damage over time. Chronic grinding can lead to headaches, earaches, facial pain, and even migraines. The constant wear caused by grinding may also increase tooth sensitivity, chip teeth, flatten biting surfaces, or loosen restorations such as fillings.

Frequent clenching also overworks the jaw’s masseter muscles, causing them to enlarge (hypertrophy), which can make the lower face appear broader or more square.

For nighttime protection, an occlusal splint or night guard can help shield the teeth from further wear. However, for some patients, Botulinum Toxin (Botox) may offer a more effective way to relieve jaw discomfort and tension. Dr. Kaufman provides safe, targeted Botulinum Toxin Type A treatments to ease symptoms related to bruxism, such as jaw soreness, neck stiffness, and chronic headaches.

Beyond pain relief, Botox for bruxism can also soften the jawline for a more balanced facial appearance. The effects typically last three to four months.

If you are experiencing sore jaw muscles, headaches, or worn teeth, don’t wait until the damage worsens. Please make an appointment with Dr. Kaufman in Glen Iris to have your condition assessed and find a treatment that best suits you.

 

Anterior Crossbite & Abnormal Tooth Eruption – Early Treatment for Children in Glen Iris

A child as young as seven years old can have his or her first permanent incisors or molars grow in the wrong position. If left untreated, it can lead to a host of problems, may complicate future orthodontic treatment and may even require surgery to correct the malformation. On the other hand during a child’s growth we can influence the way the jaws develop and bring them into a correct relationship. A good example of an important malformation that requires immediate intervention is Anterior Crossbite as shown in the image here, where the lower jaw was pushed forwards by the way the front teeth meet.

Anterior crossbite is relatively a common presentation in the mixed dentition stage. It happens when the upper incisors develop behind the lower incisors. When the child is young, it is relatively easy to guide the erupting teeth to their correct position with a simple appliance. As shown in a completed treatment by Dr. Kaufman.

Don’t wait for the malformations to be more entrenched and difficult to treat. If you feel that your child’s teeth are starting to erupt in the wrong way or there are any missing teeth, please make an appointment to see Dr. Kaufman to have them checked.

Pregnancy Dental Health – Oral Care for Expectant Mothers and New Mums in Glen Iris

Pregnancy and Dental Health: What Expectant Mothers Should Know

Pregnancy can influence your oral health, leading to issues such as gum disease, gingivitis, and an increased risk of tooth decay. Numerous studies have identified a connection between gum disease in pregnant women and an increased risk of premature births and low birth weight babies. Understanding these risks helps you maintain both your dental and general health throughout pregnancy.

Common pregnancy-related dental issues include:

  • Gum problems

  • Gingivitis (gum inflammation): typically occurs during the second trimester, causing gum swelling and bleeding during brushing or flossing.

  • Gum overgrowth (pregnancy epulis), which sometimes resolves after childbirth.

  • Vomiting or morning sickness.

  • Cravings for sugary foods.

  • Tooth mobility (often temporary until after birth).

  • Retching while brushing teeth.

During pregnancy, these symptoms occur primarily due to heightened hormonal responses to dental plaque. However, with good oral hygiene at home and professional dental care, oral health can be effectively maintained.

Pre-Pregnancy Dental Care: Prevention is Best

Practicing solid oral hygiene before conception reduces the likelihood of developing dental problems during pregnancy. Key preventive steps include:

  • Brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste.

  • Flossing daily.

  • Eating a balanced, low-sugar diet.

  • Scheduling regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings.

Women planning pregnancy should visit the dentist for a full examination—elective procedures are best completed prior to conception for optimal safety and convenience.

Dental Treatments During Pregnancy

There’s a common misconception that dental treatments aren’t safe during pregnancy. In reality, routine dental care is both safe and recommended. Be sure to inform your Dr. Kaufman of your pregnancy so that any necessary precautions can be taken when scheduling your dental appointments. Learn more about routine dental treatment.

Vomiting and Reflux During Pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones can cause gastric reflux or morning sickness, exposing teeth to strong stomach acids. Over time, this may erode enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay. Tips to protect your teeth include:

  • Avoid brushing immediately after vomiting—wait at least one hour.

  • Rinse your mouth with fluoridated tap water after vomiting.

  • Use a fluoridated mouthwash or dab a small amount of toothpaste on your teeth.

  • Consult your dentist for tailored prevention and acid-protection strategies.

Managing Retching While Brushing Teeth

Retching or gagging when brushing teeth is common in pregnancy. Strategies that may help include:

  • Using a toothbrush with a small head (such as a toddler brush).

  • Brushing slowly and calmly while breathing evenly.

  • Closing the eyes or focusing on breathing to reduce the reflex.

  • Listening to music as a distraction.

  • If needed, brush with water and follow with a fluoridated mouthwash until able to use toothpaste again.

Food Cravings and Oral Health

Many pregnant women experience cravings, especially for sweets, increasing the risk of tooth decay. To reduce damage caused by sugary snacks:

  • Choose fresh fruits instead of processed sweets.

  • Rinse with water or milk after eating sugary foods.

  • Brush soon after snacking to remove residual sugars.

Dental Health After Pregnancy

After giving birth, it’s important for new mothers to schedule a dental check-up, especially if gum swelling or bleeding occurred during pregnancy. Hormone-induced gum conditions often subside after childbirth, but in some cases, persistent gum disease requires professional treatment.

To maintain long-term oral health after pregnancy:

  • Brush twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste.

  • Floss or use interdental brushes daily.

  • Drink fluoridated tap water.

  • Limit high-sugar foods.

  • Book regular dental visits to monitor gum and tooth health.

 

Learn how breastfeeding affects your baby’s dental health and risk of early childhood caries in Glen Iris

Breastfeeding and Dental Health: What Parents Should Know

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life provides extensive nutritional and health benefits. Continued breastfeeding until two years of age or beyond, alongside complementary foods, is recommended to support healthy growth and development.

While the benefits of breastfeeding are well established, current guidelines provide limited direction regarding when to cease breastfeeding or how feeding patterns influence dental health — particularly in relation to early childhood caries.

Health and Oral Benefits of Breastfeeding

Extensive research links breastfeeding to a reduction in infections and improved long-term health outcomes. Breastfed children exhibit lower rates of ear infections (otitis media), respiratory illnesses, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). In addition, one U.S.-based study found that breastfed infants experience 21% lower post-neonatal mortality rates compared to formula-fed infants.

For mothers, breastfeeding is associated with lower risks of breast and ovarian cancer, enhanced maternal recovery, and overall improved family health outcomes — benefits that extend to the broader community through reduced healthcare costs.

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Early Childhood Caries and Infant Feeding

Early Childhood Caries refers to decay in one or more baby teeth in children under six years old. ECC increases children’s risk of future dental problems, causes discomfort, and can negatively impact speech, growth, and school performance.

Key risk factors include:

  • High sugar intake from bottle feeding, juices, and sweetened drinks.

  • Poor oral hygiene habits.

  • Frequent night-time feeding with milk or formula.

  • Low fluoride exposure from water supply.

These challenges are especially common among children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Understanding proper infant feeding techniques, including responsible breastfeeding and bottle use, helps reduce caries risk.

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Breastfeeding Duration and Cavities

There is limited evidence linking breastfeeding itself to tooth decay. However, research suggests that prolonged or on-demand nighttime feeding beyond 18 months may increase caries risk. A Japanese study found a higher prevalence of caries in children breastfed beyond 18 months compared to those weaned at six months. This may result from reduced levels of protective minerals (like calcium and phosphate) in breast milk over time. Dr. Kaufman encourages breastfeeding while counseling parents on balanced feeding practices, reduced sugar exposure, and consistent oral hygiene.

Bottle Feeding, Infant Formula, and Caries Risk

Prolonged bottle feeding, especially with milk or formulas containing added sugars, can contribute to cavities. During night feeding, milk may pool around teeth, allowing caries froming bacteria to thrive. Parents should avoid giving bottles overnight unless they contain plain water. Studies show that both bovine milk and soy-based infant formulas can reduce pH in the mouth, leading to enamel break down. Infant formulas are generally cause more decay than breast milk due to higher sugar and carbohydrate concentrations. If parents use infant formula, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommends mixing it with cooled, boiled tap water to ensure safety, fluoride exposure, and optimal dental protection.

Breastfeeding, Fluoride, and Infant Oral Care

In the past, concerns were raised about a link between infant formula and fluorosis. However, since the early 1990s, manufacturers have reduced fluoride levels in infant formula powders, easing these concerns. Current research shows no significant difference in fluorosis rates between formula-fed and breastfed infants when fluoridated water is used.​

Parents should:

  • Begin cleaning baby teeth as soon as they erupt.

  • Use a soft infant toothbrush and a rice-grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

  • Avoid prolonged night feeding after teeth appear.

  • Encourage daytime feeding with breaks for water.

Supporting Parents in Feeding Choices

Feeding decisions are deeply personal and often influenced by lifestyle, emotional, and cultural factors. While dental professionals can guide families, the ultimate choice lies with parents. Encouraging a judgment-free, evidence-based approach helps caregivers feel supported. Discussing dental care within broader parenting and nutrition contexts empowers families to make well-informed decisions for their child’s health and wellbeing.

If you need more help and support for your baby’s dental health please ask Dr. Kaufman or schedule an appointment for a consultation.

Charcoal Toothpaste: What You Need to Know in Glen Iris

Image result for charcoal dentifrices

Charcoal has a long history of use in oral care, dating back to when roughly ground charcoal was used to remove stains and absorb toxins from the mouth. Today, you’ll find charcoal featured in toothpastes, mouthwashes, beauty products, and even in foods like bread and smoothies.

However, before choosing charcoal-based dental products, it’s important to understand the science behind them.

What Research Says About Charcoal Dentifrices

A paper published in the British Dental Journal (BDJ) in May 2019 reviewed the available scientific literature on charcoal toothpastes and powders. The review concluded there is limited scientific evidence to support the claimed benefits of charcoal dentifrices.

Key Findings from the BDJ Review

  • Lack of fluoride protection: Most charcoal toothpastes do not contain fluoride. Even in those that do, the high absorptive capacity of activated charcoal can remove fluoride ions, reducing their protective effects and potentially increasing the risk of tooth decay (caries).

  • Unverified abrasiveness claims: Many brands claim their products are “low-abrasive,” but these claims are not independently verified. The particle size of charcoal can influence how abrasive it is to enamel and restorations.

  • Potential health risks: Some charcoal products may contain carcinogenic polyaromatic hydrocarbons or bentonite clay, which can introduce health concerns. Bentonite clay is often included for its supposed ability to help charcoal bind plaque, bacteria, and stains for removal during brushing.

  • Tissue and restoration staining: Charcoal particles can accumulate in the gum pockets of patients with periodontal disease, leading to grey or black tissue discoloration. It may also cause staining along the edges of composite restorations and crowns, affecting aesthetic results.

Whitening vs. Bleaching Teeth

The BDJ report highlighted an important distinction between teeth whitening and bleaching. Charcoal products primarily remove surface stains but do not change the intrinsic tooth color. There is currently insufficient scientific evidence to support claims of true whitening or bleaching effects from charcoal toothpaste.

Marketing and Consumer Appeal

Charcoal dentifrices are often marketed with appealing terms such as natural, eco-friendly, organic, or herbal. According to the BDJ review:

  • 88% of charcoal dentifrices analyzed used at least one of these terms.

  • 54% used two or more.

Such marketing has contributed to an increase in brushing frequency among Australian adults—a positive trend considering that only half of Australians brush twice daily, according to the nation’s Oral Health Tracker.

Choosing Evidence-Based Toothpaste

While charcoal toothpaste may seem fashionable, Dr. Daniel Kaufman recommend using fluoride-containing toothpaste for long-term oral health.

What Is Mouth Cancer? Understanding Oral Cancer, Signs, and Prevention in Glen Iris

Mouth cancer—also known as oral cancer—refers to lesions or growths that begin in the mouth. The most common sites include the lips, tongue, and floor of the mouth, but oral cancer can also develop in the cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth, tonsils, and salivary glands.

What Are the Warning Signs of Mouth Cancer?

  • A swelling or sore on your lip that doesn’t heal for more than two weeks

  • Lump in your neck

  • Difficulty or pain when swallowing

  • Bleeding or numbness in the mouth

  • White or red patches on the mouth, tongue, or gums

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Loose teeth

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Mouth Cancer

Historically, oral cancer was predominantly linked to smoking and alcohol use. While these remain risk factors, decreased smoking rates have shed light on additional causes and risk factors:

  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)

  • Family history of oral cancers

  • Poor oral hygiene and gum disease

Early Detection Saves Lives

Early detection is crucial for treating mouth cancer successfully. Don’t ignore unusual sores, patches, or lumps—make sure to see a dental professional if symptoms persist. For more information or to book a consultation, contact Dr. Kaufman or call Tooronga Family Dentistry.

Effective Plaque Removal: Disclosing Agents and Oral Hygiene Tips in Glen Iris.

Daily removal of plaque—the bacterial film that builds up on teeth—is essential to prevent dental disease. But how do you know if your brushing and flossing are making a difference?

Plaque forms naturally each day from leftover food particles after eating. Bacteria within it produce acid that may erode tooth enamel, leads to tooth decay, and can infect gums, causing gum disease.

Twice-daily plaque removal with thorough brushing and interdental cleaning keeps harmful bacteria in check. A quick brush isn’t enough—plaque’s sticky texture allows it to hide below gums, in uneven biting surfaces, or underneath overhanging restorations.

Because plaque resembles natural tooth color, it’s very difficult to spot visually. That’s where disclosing agents come in—solutions, tablets, or swabs containing dye that temporarily stains plaque (not tooth enamel). Dr. Kaufman uses these to show patients areas they may be missing when brushing and flossing, and you can use them at home too.

To check for plaque after cleaning, chew a disclosing tablet or swish solution for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. The dye will stain plaque in a bright red color—some products even show older plaque in a different color than new. Examine your teeth in the mirror, then brush and floss until all color is gone.

Disclosing dyes are safe in the mouth, but don’t swallow or let them touch clothing. Dye on lips, gums, or tongue fades in a few hours.

For more advice on effective oral hygiene, please ask Dr. Kaufman or schedule an appointment for a professional consultation.

Charcoal Toothpaste: Hype vs. Facts in Oral Care in Glen Iris

Charcoal has taken the oral care industry by storm—ads, social media posts, and articles claim that charcoal-infused toothpaste whitens teeth and freshens breath better than any other product available. But what’s the real story behind the trend?

Activated charcoal is a fine-grained powder made from wood, coconut shells, and other natural substances oxidized under extreme heat. Its main property is high abrasiveness.

A thorough review in the British Dental Journal (2019) found that charcoal offers little protection against tooth decay and there’s limited scientific evidence to support its other health claims. In fact, powdered charcoal in toothpaste can be harmful—it strips away tooth enamel, lightening the tooth’s visible color but also increasing sensitivity and risk of staining over time. If you use charcoal toothpaste, you must brush very gently to avoid wearing down the enamel surface.

Additional findings shared by the BBC highlight that overuse of charcoal toothpaste in patients with fillings allows particles to infiltrate and darken them, as well as accumulate in the gums and irritate them. Most charcoal-infused and “natural” toothpastes do not contain fluoride, which is essential for cavity prevention.

Key summary:

  • Charcoal toothpaste is too abrasive for daily use.

  • Most charcoal brands lack fluoride.

  • It may aggravate staining on teeth.

  • Charcoal can negatively affect dental restorations, such as fillings.

If you want to know more about whitening your teeth or selecting a whitening toothpaste, please make an appointment with Dr. Kaufman to explore the safest and most effective options for your smile.