Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

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.

COVID-19 and Oral Health Prevention

While there is limited data on COVID-19 due to its recent emergence, the German Society of Dentistry and Oral Medicine (DGZMK) has emphasized the importance of dental prevention and the systemic relevance of dentistry, especially during the pandemic. They cite several recent studies suggesting that good oral health can reduce the severity of COVID-19 cases. Prof. Roland Frankenberger, president of the DGZMK, stated: “In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, dentistry has a particularly important role to play in keeping the oral cavity healthy. Dental prophylaxis strengthens the immunocompetence at the point of entry of the virus and helps to avoid infection or to mitigate its course.”

A healthy oral cavity acts as a barrier against numerous diseases under normal circumstances. Dr. Frankenberger notes that this remains true for COVID-19, where studies suggest that poor oral hygiene may lead to more severe viral courses.

Sugary drinks in Glen Iris

Image result for sugary drinks

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.

 

Is tooth paste needed for good oral hygiene?

What’s In Your Toothpaste? How Ingredients Affect Oral Health

Standard (non-organic) toothpaste usually contains:

  • Abrasives to clean bacterial film and debris off teeth. Common abrasives include calcium carbonate, dehydrated silica gels, hydrated aluminum oxides, magnesium carbonate, phosphate salts, and silicates. Silica is often the whitening agent in most whitening toothpastes.

  • Detergents that create the foamy sensation, like sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium N-Lauryl sarcosinate.

  • Fluoride at different strengths—children’s toothpaste contains less fluoride than adult formulas.

  • Flavoring compounds, including sweeteners such as saccharine.

  • Special ingredients for specific conditions, such as tetrasodium pyrophosphate for tartar control, potassium nitrate or strontium chloride for sensitive teeth, stannous fluoride and triclosan for reducing gum inflammation and removing plaque.

  • Moistening agents to keep the paste soft and easy to squeeze out, such as glycerol, propylene glycol, and sorbitol.

  • Binders to prevent ingredient separation—mineral colloids, natural gums, seaweed colloids, or synthetic cellulose.

Organic toothpaste tends to be paraben-free and sulfate-free, without Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate or artificial colors/flavors. It may have natural preservatives. If you frequently get tiny pimples or rashes around your lips, or canker sores inside your mouth, consider switching to organic toothpaste that is free from Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate, as some people are sensitive or allergic to these additives.

Do You Need Toothpaste to Clean Your Teeth?

Dental plaque is a sticky, colorless biofilm of bacteria and sugars that constantly forms on teeth. Plaque is acidic and will break down tooth enamel and dentine, causing cavities. It can also irritate gums, causing gingivitis, infections, and eventual tooth loss.

Brushing with a product designed for a fresh mouth feels great, but for practical cleaning, toothpaste isn’t strictly necessary. You can remove food debris and plaque simply with a soft toothbrush and good brushing techniques. Flossing, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and regular dental checkups keep your teeth healthy and strong.

Are Sports Drinks Bad for Your Teeth?

These days, sports drinks are seen by many as an indispensable part of exercising. They’re one of the first things people grab as they rush to the gym or sports field. The thinking goes—if professional athletes drink them, they must be good for you, right?

That’s not quite how it works.

Sports drinks were designed to help professional athletes recover from intense training under controlled conditions. But if you’re more of a “weekend warrior,” these drinks don’t do much to boost your performance, hydration, or overall health—despite what the marketing says.

Even worse, sports drinks can harm your teeth. They’re full of sugars and acids that can lead to tooth erosion and decay over time. Like many things in life, they’re best consumed in moderation—if at all.

A Better Way to Stay Hydrated

So, what’s a better option when you’re sweating it out?
Water—good old-fashioned, straight-from-the-tap water.

It quickly relieves dehydration symptoms such as a dry mouth or excessive sweating, it’s free, and it’s naturally fortified with fluoride, which helps protect your teeth and reduce decay. Plus, water doesn’t come with a label full of unpronounceable ingredients.

Reading the Label: Know What You’re Drinking

A simple way to check whether what you’re eating or drinking supports your dental health is to learn how to read labels. It’s easier than you might think.

Look out for hidden sugars such as honey, rice syrup, or organic dehydrated cane juice. To spot acidity, check for ingredients like citric acid or sodium benzoate—and remember, if it ends in “ate,” it’s likely an acidic preservative.

Once you understand how to identify these ingredients, you’ll be better equipped to choose foods and drinks that support your teeth, gums, and overall health—helping you stay healthy and strong, both on and off the field.

Pregnancy and Oral Health: Glen Iris Dentist’s Guide for Expectant Mothers

Pregnancy brings many changes—including some that affect your oral health. Here’s what Glen Iris mums-to-be need to know about keeping their mouths healthy throughout pregnancy:

Pregnancy Gingivitis
Around the second month, higher progesterone levels can increase bacteria that cause gingivitis. Symptoms include red, swollen gums and bleeding during brushing. Practicing excellent oral hygiene is crucial to control these symptoms and protect both mum and baby.

Enamel Erosion from Morning Sickness
Morning sickness and vomiting expose teeth to stomach acids, softening tooth enamel. Avoid brushing immediately after vomiting—rinse with water first and brush 20–30 minutes later to prevent enamel wear.

Dry Mouth During Pregnancy
If your mouth feels dry, drink water frequently to help rinse away bacteria that would normally be cleared by saliva.

Lumps on the Gums (“Pregnancy Tumours”)
Occasionally, a deep red lump appears on the gum, often in the second trimester. These “pregnancy tumours” can bleed easily or be painful. They’re usually harmless but should be checked by Dr. Kaufman—it could be a lump, abscess, or other issue needing attention.

Gum Infection, Disease, and Your Baby
Good oral hygiene during pregnancy is vital. Gum disease isn’t just local—it allows bacteria to enter your bloodstream and potentially affect your baby. Gum infections can trigger prostaglandin production, which may increase the risk of preterm delivery and low birth weight.

If you have any worries about gum disease or mouth care, contact our Glen Iris dental team or book your appointment for a thorough checkup and support tailored to Glen Iris families.