Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Family dental care in Glen Iris

Recent study found link between gum disease and hypertension

On March 2021, Dr. Francesco D’Aiuto, head of the periodontology unit at University College London Eastman Dental Institute, published a study outlining the association between severe gum disease and high blood pressure. According to these findings, a person experiencing an advanced stage of gum disease is significantly more likely to develop high blood pressure.

Dr. D’Aiuto explained that “evidence indicates that periodontal bacteria cause damage to the gums and also trigger inflammatory responses that can impact the development of systemic diseases including high blood pressure.”

The study analyzed data from 250 adults with severe periodontitis and 250 adults without gum disease. All participants were otherwise healthy. The findings revealed that participants with gum disease were twice as likely to have high systolic blood pressure (140 mm Hg or more) than those with healthy gums (14% vs. 7%, respectively). The results suggest that 50% of adults could have undetected high blood pressure due to gum disease and consequently many individuals may be unaware they are at increased risk of heart-related problems.

The author noted that “oral health strategies such as brushing teeth twice daily are proven very effective in managing and preventing the most common oral conditions, and our study’s results indicate they can also be a powerful and affordable tool to help prevent hypertension.”

Please contact the practice if you have any questions regarding your health condition.

Association between gum disease and severity of COVID‐19 infection in Glen Iris

A recent study published in February 2021 (DOI link) found that gum disease or periodontitis is linked to the severity of Covid-19 complications.

According to the authors,  this research explored the role of gum disease as an exacerbating factor in severe Covid-19 outcomes. Since systemic inflammation is also a key feature of periodontitis, the connection between periodontitis and COVID‐19 complications has been investigated.

Periodontitis is a chronic, non‐resolving gingival inflammation causing bone loss and tooth detachment. It has been linked to other medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, renal disease, pneumonia, and cancer.

The study analyzed 568 Covid-19 patients. Out of those, 258 had periodontitis. Among them, 33 experienced Covid-19 complications, whereas only 7 of the 310 patients without periodontitis had such complications. The study concluded that patients with moderate-to-severe periodontitis had a significantly higher risk of COVID‐19 complications compared to those with mild or no periodontitis. Possible reasons for this connection include periodontal pockets acting as viral reservoirs and the aspiration of periodontal bacteria worsening COVID‐19 virulence.

Gum disease is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide but remains preventable and treatable. Maintaining good oral health, especially healthy gums, can significantly reduce the risk of serious medical conditions, including coronavirus complications. Signs of gum disease include bleeding during brushing or eating and bad breath. Since symptoms often aren’t painful, many ignore them, increasing the risk of tooth loss and medical complications.

To prevent gum disease, brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean gently along the gum-line, and floss regularly. Regular dental visits are essential for assessing oral health and receiving professional cleaning. For more information or concerns about gum disease, please contact our practice to schedule an appointment.

Why do I have a black line at the base of my crown in Glen Iris?

Over time, it is common for black lines to form at the base of a crown or become visible on the gums surrounding your crown. Typically, this is a cosmetic issue and usually causes no pain.

If you do experience pain, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible.

Black lines can appear on crowns for several reasons, whether it’s an individual crown or one placed after root canal treatment:

  • Having a porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown. As your gums recede over time, the metal portion at the top of your crown may be exposed.

  • Staining caused by the metal on your PFM crown where the gums meet the metal.

  • Cavity formation between the crown and gums.

Dr. Daniel Kaufman can assess the cause and recommend an appropriate solution, which may include:

  • Replacing an old crown with a fully porcelain crown to eliminate black lines and stains.

  • Treating any cavities promptly to avoid further complications.

All treatments should be supported with good dental hygiene at home and regular check-up and hygiene appointments at the dental practice. If you noticed a black line around your crown, schedule an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Daniel Kaufman.

Wisdom Teeth Removal and Care in Glen Iris

What Are Wisdom Teeth? Do We Need to Remove Them?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars located at the very back of the mouth. While the first molars usually erupt after age 6, wisdom teeth, the third molars, typically emerge during the late teens or early twenties. The wisdom teeth, which begin developing around the age of 6-7 and can be seen on an x-ray early on.

Since wisdom teeth erupt after all other teeth, they often face limited space to emerge, leading to what’s called impaction. This is largely due to evolutionary changes. Anthropologists believe wisdom teeth were necessary for chewing coarse foods that wore down earlier teeth. Today’s softer diet means they are often unnecessary and classified as vestigial organs. Additionally, modern jaw sizes have decreased, sometimes causing wisdom teeth to grow at angles that push against neighboring teeth or gum tissue, sometimes causing pain or infections.

When a wisdom tooth pushes against another tooth, bone, or soft tissue, it results in impaction, which can cause pain, damage, or other dental issues. To prevent complications, impacted wisdom teeth that cause symptoms are typically removed.

Why Early Evaluation Matters

It is crucial to evaluate the development and position of wisdom teeth around age 15-16 to determine if they will cause problems and to plan treatment timing. Early assessments prevent discomfort and avoid future complications. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth might not cause immediate issues but are at higher risk for decay and gum disease. That’s why Dr. Kaufman may recommend removal of impacted wisdom teeth even when symptom-free. This evaluation is included as part of our comprehensive dental exam.

Expertise and Advanced Techniques at Tooronga Family Dentistry

With extensive experience in wisdom teeth removal, Dr. Kaufman offers extractions using local anesthesia, nitrous oxide sedation and general anesthesia. To ensure precision and comfort, we utilize the latest ultrasonic surgical system, which is more efficient and less invasive than traditional drills.

For personalized advice or to discuss wisdom teeth concerns, please contact Dr. Kaufman or call Tooronga Family Dentistry.

Sugary drinks in Glen Iris

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Sugary Drinks and Your Oral Health

Sugary drinks include sweetened beverages such as regular soft drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, fruit juices, cordial, sweetened teas, rice drinks, sugar cane and bean beverages. While these drinks may seem harmless, they contain high levels of sugar and acid that can harm both your dental and general health.

Excessive consumption of sugary or acidic drinks can lead to weight gain, obesity, and poor nutrition in adults and children. In younger children, sugary drink intake often reduces milk consumption, resulting in lower calcium levels and increasing the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures later in life. These drinks also contribute significantly to tooth decay and dental erosion.

The Hidden Dangers of Sugary Drinks

  • A 600ml bottle of soft drink contains around 16 teaspoons of sugar.

  • A 600ml sports drink has about 9 teaspoons of sugar.

  • Nearly 47% of children aged 2–6 consume sugary drinks daily.

  • Just 340ml of sugary drink per day can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes by 22%.

Learn more about how obesity affects dental health.

Oral Health Effects

Frequent consumption of sugary drinks accelerates tooth decay and enamel erosion. Even diet soft drinks, although sugar-free, are highly acidic and can cause similar damage. Many sugary beverages also contain caffeine, which can affect hydration and lower the mouth’s pH, reducing saliva’s natural ability to protect your teeth.

Early exposure is particularly harmful. Prolonged or repeated contact between a baby’s teeth and sugary liquids has been linked to early childhood caries.

To understand more, read about acidic drinks and dental erosion.

Smart Tips to Cut Back on Sugary Drinks

  • Choose water first when you’re thirsty.

  • Carry a water bottle to avoid buying sweet drinks.

  • When ordering meals, opt for water or milk instead of soft drinks.

  • Check nutrition labels carefully—“healthy-sounding” drinks can be misleading.

  • For alcoholic beverages, explore lower-sugar options.

  • Avoid the soft drink aisles and checkout specials when shopping.

  • Limit how often and how much you drink sugary drinks per day.

  • Use a straw to reduce acid contact with teeth.

  • Rinse or brush your teeth after drinking sugary beverages.

  • Encourage children to carry a water bottle to school.

  • Avoid flavored milk or fruit juices with added sugar.

  • If vending machines at school offer sweet drinks, advocate for healthier alternatives.

Sugary Drinks and Infant Care

For babies with teeth:

  • Never settle your baby to sleep with bottles containing milk, cordial, fruit juice, or soft drink.

  • If your child needs comfort before sleep, offer water or a dummy instead.

Establishing healthy habits early helps protect both your child’s dental health and their long-term wellbeing.

 

Study Shows Benefits of Fluoride to Children

A recent study confirms that fluoridation reduces tooth decay in Logan-Beaudesert children, with a notable 19% drop in cases since the introduction of fluoridated water. This research, supported by the Australian Dental Association of Queensland (ADAQ), was led by Emeritus Professor Kim Seow and Professor Laurence Walsh from the University of Queensland School of Dentistry. The three-year study involved 457 children aged four to nine.

Professor Walsh highlighted, “Prior to the introduction of fluoridation in 2008, six-year-old children in the Logan-Beaudesert region had a tooth decay rate two-and-a-half times the national average.” At that time, only five percent of Queensland children had access to fluoridated water. Today, that figure has risen to 80 percent, resulting in a significant reduction in tooth decay and supporting the benefits of local fluoridation initiatives.

Published in the journal of Caries Research, the UQ study conducted with Queensland Health also showed a remarkable 54 percent decrease in the relative risk of decayed, missing, or filled teeth. Dr Ralph Kelsey, President of ADA Queensland, noted a 26 percent reduction in decay observed on dental X-rays for the most vulnerable molar surfaces.

Dr Kelsey remarked, “This positive scientific report confirms what dentists see every day. I trust this research will help inform local councils in Queensland still considering the benefits of fluoridation.”

Besides water fluoridation, the UQ research group and Tooronga Dentistry’s community programs are exploring additional oral health interventions. Targeted telephone campaigns across the Logan-Beaudesert region have also shown encouraging improvements in children’s dental health.

For more information about children’s dental health services, please visit Tooronga Dentistry’s Children’s Dentistry page.

Professional Teeth Whitening in Glen iris

Teeth whitening performed under the supervision of a dentist is one of the most effective ways to improve the color and brightness of your smile. While it has become very popular, many people are unaware of the potential risks and limitations of whitening treatments. Not everyone’s teeth are suitable for whitening, and if your teeth or gums are not healthy, the procedure may cause more harm than good.

The safest way to find out if teeth whitening is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kaufman. During your appointment, we will check important factors such as enamel thickness, gum health, existing restorations like fillings, crowns, and veneers). We also examine the cause of discoloration—whether it comes from diet, ageing, medications, or internal factors.

While teeth with surface stains may respond well to whitening, deeper internal discoloration might require different treatment options.

How Teeth Whitening Works

Professional teeth whitening uses oxidising agents such as hydrogen peroxide to alter how the tooth surface reflects light. Used correctly, this process safely brightens the enamel. However, repeated or improper use over long periods can cause irreversible damage to teeth.

There are two main whitening methods:

  • Take‑home whitening trays: Custom trays made by your dentist for controlled use over 1–2 weeks.

  • In‑chair whitening: A dentist applies the whitening gel in one or two visits, sometimes using light or heat to accelerate the results.

What to Expect During and After Treatment

Some patients experience a mild “bubbly” sensation or slight tooth discomfort during the application. Temporary sensitivity may occur after treatment, especially when biting. These effects typically subside within a few days. If sensitivity persists, please contact us.

How to Maintain Whiter Teeth

To keep your smile bright for longer, reduce daily staining from foods and drinks. Stains can come from plaque, tannins, tobacco, and colored foods. Common sources of staining include:

  • Herbal or black tea

  • Coffee

  • Red wine

  • Spicy foods such as curries

Smoking also causes persistent surface stains that are difficult to remove. For best results, any visible stains should be cleaned professionally before whitening. To get started, schedule an appointment with us today and restore the natural brightness of your smile.

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.

Living with Diabetes-Preventing complications-Oral Health

Diabetes and Oral Health: Understanding the Connection

The mouth is an important part of overall health but is often overlooked when discussing complications associated with diabetes. Diabetes can have a serious impact on your oral health and increase your risk of several dental conditions.

Common Oral Health Problems Linked to Diabetes

1. Periodontitis
Periodontitis or gum disease, is the most common oral complication related to diabetes. It causes gum and bone recession around the teeth, leading to loose, painful, or lost teeth if left untreated. This condition is chronic and requires consistent professional care. Studies show a two-way relationship between diabetes and gum disease. Periodontitis can make it harder to manage blood glucose levels, increasing HbA1C levels and the risk of prediabetes. Professional periodontal treatment can moderately improve glycaemic control, highlighting the importance of regular dental visits. Well-controlled blood glucose, however, lowers this risk to that of non-diabetic individuals.

2. Tooth Decay
Diabetes-related gum disease can expose the tooth’s root surface, making it more susceptible to decay. Reduced saliva flow, often present in people with diabetes, also increases this risk by reducing the natural protection saliva provides.

3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
A common symptom in people with diabetes is reduced saliva production, causing a persistent dry feeling in the mouth. It is more frequent in individuals with diabetic neuropathy and can lead to increased tooth decay, gum disease, and infection.

4. Oral Thrush (Candidiasis)
Oral thrush is a fungal infection that appears as white patches in the mouth or on the tongue. High blood sugar, reduced saliva, and a weakened immune system increase the likelihood of this infection in diabetes patients.

5. Delayed Wound Healing
Changes in blood flow and reduced immunity can cause delayed or poor healing of mouth ulcers and other oral wounds, making it harder for the body to recover from even minor injuries.

6. Altered Taste
Diabetes can affect the ability to taste food and drinks, possibly because of slower cell renewal in taste receptors or nerve-related complications.

Recognising Symptoms of Gum Disease

Early signs of periodontal disease include:

  • Bleeding gums

  • Bad breath

  • Gum recession and longer-looking teeth

  • Tooth sensitivity or looseness

  • Spaces developing between teeth

These symptoms often occur without pain, which is why regular dental check-ups are essential to detect and manage problems before they progress.

Maintaining Good Oral Health with Diabetes

To reduce the risk of oral complications, follow these practical tips:

Dental Care for Patients with Diabetes

Dr. Daniel Kaufman plays an essential role in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diabetes-related oral health problems. Always inform Dr. Kaufman about your diabetes condition, blood glucose control, and any medications you are taking. Regular dental visits and ongoing communication can significantly improve your oral and overall health.