Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Why do I need straight teeth in Glen Iris?

You might wonder, “Do we really need straight teeth? After all, crooked teeth aren’t life-threatening!” While this is true, having properly aligned teeth brings many long-term oral health and lifestyle benefits.

Appearance and Confidence

The most noticeable benefit is a confident, attractive smile. Straight teeth help you feel positive about sharing your smile with others.

Healthier Mouth, Fresher Breath, Fewer Problems

But having straight teeth goes well beyond looks:

  • Reduced risk of bad breath: Crooked teeth provide more surfaces and crevices where bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

  • Prevents tooth loss and ulcers: Crowding or wide gaps strain gums and disrupt your chewing, which can eventually lead to ulcers and tooth loss.

  • Even wear and chewing: When upper and lower teeth meet unevenly, some teeth may wear down faster, causing abnormal chewing, loss of enamel, and jaw discomfort.

  • Easier cleaning: Straight teeth are simpler to maintain with regular brushing and flossing, helping you prevent dental problems for years to come.

Straightening Crooked or Spaced Teeth

Orthodontic treatments like braces gently guide your teeth into their best position, delivering a harmonious, healthy, and attractive smile. If you have misaligned teeth or just want more information about the benefits of tooth alignment, ask Dr. Kaufman or schedule an appointment for a detailed consultation.

Wisdom Teeth Facts: Glen Iris Dental Guide to What You Need to Know

There are plenty of myths and urban legends about wisdom teeth. If you’re in Glen Iris and wondering whether you have them, what their purpose is, and if removal is required, here are the facts:

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are just like any other tooth—the third molars, located at the very back of your mouth. They usually begin to erupt around age 18, but can appear later. Most people grow all four, but some only develop two or three. The presence and position are best checked with a large dental x-ray (OPG) typically around ages 15–17.

Why Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?

Since they come in later than other teeth, wisdom teeth often don’t have enough space to emerge properly. This can lead to:

  • Tilting or becoming impacted (stuck below the gum)

  • Crowding existing teeth

  • Damage to nearby teeth

  • Trapping food and bacteria, increasing the risk of decay

Misaligned or impacted wisdom teeth can result in tooth decay, swelling, tenderness, and bad breath. Extraction is often the safest solution for these issues.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Ideally, removal should be planned early—before problems develop. Extracting wisdom teeth at a younger age is generally easier, as roots are not fully formed and bone is less dense.

If you live in Glen Iris and want to find out more about your wisdom teeth, contact our dental team for a thorough check. The first step will be an x-ray; then Dr. Kaufman can suggest the best approach for your oral health.

Bad Breath Treatment Glen Iris: Understanding the Root Causes of Halitosis

What Causes Bad Breath? Understanding Halitosis

Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, develops from toxin-producing bacteria that accumulate in your mouth. Our experienced Glen Iris dental team has identified the most common underlying causes:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene Practices

Irregular or ineffective brushing and flossing allows food particles to become trapped, promoting bacterial growth. During comprehensive examinations at our Glen Iris dental clinic, we assess your current oral hygiene techniques and provide personalized demonstrations to improve your daily routine.

2. Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)

Persistent bad breath that continues after brushing and flossing often indicates gum disease. When plaque and bacteria cause periodontal issues, they create deep pockets and bone loss around teeth. These crevices become safe harbors for bacteria that even excellent oral hygiene cannot reach.

Dr. Kaufman Daniel specializes in gum disease treatment in Glen Iris. Without proper treatment, periodontal disease can lead to serious health complications including diabetes, stroke, certain cancers, and tooth loss.

3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Reduced saliva production allows bacteria to multiply rapidly, causing halitosis. Our Glen Iris dental practice offers saliva stimulation therapies and replacement treatments to combat dry mouth-related bad breath.

4. Dental Cavities

Even small cavities harbor bacteria that produce unpleasant odors. A tiny amount of dental decay can create significant bad breath. We provide composite restorations to eliminate decay and restore oral health.

5. Denture-Related Issues

Bacteria that affect natural teeth also colonize dentures. The acrylic material used in denture construction can sometimes harbor bacteria more easily than natural teeth. Our team provides comprehensive denture care guidance for Glen Iris patients.

Professional Bad Breath Treatment in Glen Iris

If you’re experiencing persistent bad breath, don’t let it affect your confidence and social interactions. Dr. Kaufman Daniel and our experienced team at Tooronga Family Dentistry provide comprehensive halitosis diagnosis and treatment.

Contact  our Glen Iris dental practice today at (03) 9822 7006 to schedule an appointment todiscover the underlying cause of your bad breath.