Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Dental erosion in Glen Iris – Are you washing away your teeth?

  • Dental Erosion and Acidic Drinks

    When acids come into contact with your teeth, the enamel and dentine can gradually soften and dissolve. This process is known as dental erosion. Over time, dental erosion can lead to tooth wear, increased sensitivity, and even tooth loss if left untreated.

    Causes of Dental Erosion

    Many common drinks are acidic and can damage teeth when consumed frequently. Acidic drinks weaken the protective enamel layer, making your teeth more prone to decay, sensitivity, and discoloration. The acidity of a drink is measured by its pH level — the lower the pH, the higher the acid content and the greater the risk to your teeth.

    Early Signs of Dental Erosion

    Look for the following warning signs:

    • Teeth appearing more yellow as enamel thins and dentine becomes visible

    • A smooth or glazed look on tooth surfaces

    • Sensitivity to temperature or sweetness

    • Transparent or thinning edges of the front teeth

    If you notice these changes, schedule an appointment with your dentist. Early detection and treatment can slow down or prevent further damage.

    Acidic Drinks and Their pH Levels

    The table below shows examples of popular drinks and their acidity levels. Drinks with a pH between 1 and 5 are highly acidic and can cause dental erosion if consumed often.

    pH Example Drink Acid Content (Source: Choice, July 2010)
    1 Stomach acid
    2 Lemon juice 2.45 Pepsi, 2.53 Coca-Cola, 2.80 Cottee’s Lemon Crush, 2.85 Cottee’s Diet Cordial No Added Sugar, 2.85 Pepsi Max, 2.9 Sunnyboy Glug Cola
    3 Vinegar 3.00 Glaceau Vitamin Water Triple-X, 3.07 Staminade Lemon Lime Fusion, 3.07 Coca-Cola Zero, 3.09 Fanta Orange, 3.14 Pop Tops Apple Blackcurrant Drink, 3.36 Gatorade Fierce Grape, 3.46 V Energy, 3.50 V Energy Sugar Free, 3.50 Golden Circle Sunshine Punch, 3.51 Red Bull, 3.61 Golden Circle Juice No Added Sugar
    4 Tomato juice 4.04 Berri Low Acid Orange Juice
    5 Rainwater
    6 Milk 6.70 Sanitarium Up and Go Banana & Honey
    7 Pure water Neutral pH

    How to Prevent Dental Erosion

    Protect your teeth from acid wear with these practical tips:

    • Limit consumption of soft drinks, fruit juices, and sports drinks

    • Rinse with water after having acidic beverages

    • Wait at least 30–60 minutes before brushing your teeth after consuming acidic foods or drinks

    • Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel

    • Chew sugar-free gum to increase saliva flow and neutralise acids

    • Visit your dentist for regular dental check-ups and professional fluoride treatments

    When to See Dr. Kaufman

    If you regularly consume any of the acidic drinks listed above or notice signs of enamel wear, visit Dr. Kaufman for a professional assessment. After a thorough examinaion, Dr. Kaufman can provide tailored advice, preventive care, and protective treatments to help manage dental erosion.

Are Dentures Right for You?

You may have heard or seen dentures and have a general idea of how they look. But not all denture are the same, there are many designs and features with advantages and disadvantages to every solution. Here is a brief description,

Full dentures

Are the kind that first come in mind along with a vision of two pink pieces of plastic and teeth attached to them. These dentures are an option for those who had lost or need to have all their teeth removed. When in use for many years, these dentures wear and require replacement. Full dentures can be a good solution for those missing their teeth in the upper jaw. Once made for the first time these dentures require several months of adjusting and learning, of how to hold them in place, to function with them comfortably. For the lower jaw full dentures are difficult to function with, since there is little anchorage for them. Full dentures in the lower jaw frequently require the application of denture glue or joining them to the jaw with implants which makes them much more stable. Dr. Kaufman has much experience in denture design and implants to help one achieve a good outcome.

Partial dentures

Are an option for those who had lost several teeth, but the remaining ones are healthy.  A partial denture will be anchored by the remaining teeth and replace the missing ones. The  size and design of the partial denture depends on how many teeth are remaining, where they are located in the mouth, and the overall oral health of the gum tissue. When Dr. Kaufman will offer a partial denture as an option for you, he will go into the different possible designs their advantages and disadvantages. One of the major concerns with partial dentures is the heavy load they transfer to the remaining teeth, which can lead to their loss.

Since many consider missing teeth as a sign of poor hygiene or old age, which can lead to low self esteem, social and behavioral problems. Dentures are an aesthetic replacement for the missing teeth that allow one to chew, eat, and speak properly. They allow for the replacement of multiple teeth or all of them at a relatively low cost.

Dentures require the same oral care as natural teeth. The gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth should be brushed twice daily. The dentures themselves need to be brushed with a non-abrasive cleanser, and they must be carefully stored in water when not being worn. If dentures don’t fit properly, they can cause mouth irritation, or even fall out at inopportune moments. That’s why it is so important to schedule periodical examination to see if the dentures are in a good shape.
Please contact us at Tooronga Family Dentistry for further information or scheduling an appointment for dentures.

Bad Breath Prevention

Chronic bad breath is also known as halitosis or malodor. It is a common condition caused by bacterial buildup in the mouth leading to inflammation and the production of noxious odors. Or it can be related to medical conditions that include liver disease, diabetes, chronic lung infections, acid reflux, dry mouth or xerostomia, and postnasal drip.

Where do bacteria deposit themselves?

The common bacterial deposits are inside tooth Cavities and around inflamed swollen gums  where there are ideal conditions for them to grow.  Other locations can be around the tonsils, where food particles can become trapped or in dirty dentures.

Cures for Chronic Bad Breath

  1. Good Oral Hygiene: Tooth cleaning with brushing and flossing after every meal goes a long way in the reduction of  odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. It has been found that electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual toothbrushes and flossing is mandatory. If you find that your brushing does not remove the food trapped between the teeth, please come and see us at Tooronga Family Dentistry, so we can instruct you on the right technique and appliances to use.
  2.  Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps in the secretion of saliva that can break down and rinse away the food particles from your mouth and reduce bacterial growth. Drinking milk is also known to reduce the strength of noxious breath odors.
  3. Stop smoking: Cigarettes, pipes and snuff can give you bad breath due to the nicotine in them.
  4. Reduce Coffee and Alcohol ingestion: Coffee has a strong smell that remains on the back of your tongue. Alcohol can be released thorough your lungs for as long as eight to ten hours after you stop drinking. Both alcohol and caffeine can lead to a dry mouth which eventually leads to bad breath.
  5. Chew Sugarless Gum: Chewing gum after a meal can increases the saliva flow in your mouth to fight bad breath and helps reduce cavities.

Please don’t hesitate to contact our team if you have more questions about bad breath or to make an appointment to have the condition of your mouth examined.

Healthy Juicing Habits: Protecting Your Teeth This Winter in Glen Iris.

During the winter months in Glen Iris, when fresh fruits are harder to find, many people turn to fruit juices or vegetable smoothies to boost their nutrition. But is juice really as healthy for your teeth as it seems?

While juices can provide vitamins and antioxidants, many are also high in sugar and acidity, which can weaken tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities. The good news? You don’t have to give up juicing altogether. With a few smart choices, you can enjoy delicious drinks while protecting your oral health.

Choose Fresh, Homemade Fruit Juice

Even fruit juices labelled “no added sugar” often contain naturally high sugar levels. Enjoy them in moderation, and when possible, make your own fresh fruit juice at home.
Select ripe fruits, as they tend to have lower acidity than unripe varieties—making them a gentler choice for your teeth.

Boost Your Smoothies With Leafy Greens

Vegetable smoothies are a nutritious option and don’t cause blood sugar spikes like fruit juice can. Add leafy greens such as kale, collards, or spinach, which provide chlorophyll, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus—nutrients essential for maintaining strong teeth and bones.

Try Wheatgrass for a Nutrient-Rich Superfood

Wheatgrass is known as a powerful superfood, packed with amino acids, vitamins A, B-complex, C, E and K, minerals, and chlorophyll. Its healing and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great addition to your wellness routine.

Add Coconut Oil for Extra Oral Health Benefits

Coconut oil contains natural antibacterial properties that support both general and dental health. Stirring a teaspoon into your juice or smoothie can instantly elevate its health benefits.

Enjoy Unsweetened Cranberry Juice

Fresh, unsweetened cranberry juice is rich in antioxidants and contains compounds that help prevent cavity-causing bacteria from sticking to teeth. It may also support urinary tract health, heart health, and reduce inflammation.

At Tooronga Family Dentistry, Dr. Daniel Kaufman and our friendly team are committed to helping families in Glen Iris maintain healthy smiles all year round. If you have questions about diet, oral care, or preventive dentistry, we’re here to help. Please schedule an appointment or Call us.

How to Prevent Sensitive Teeth in Winter: Expert Tips from Glen Iris Dentists

How to Prevent Sensitive Teeth During Winter in Glen Iris

Huddling up with a warm cup of tea or hot chocolate is one of winter’s simple pleasures. But the cold weather can also bring less pleasant issues such as dry skin, cracked lips, and sensitive teeth. Many people in Glen Iris experience tooth pain as temperatures drop, but the good news is that you can prevent discomfort with a few simple strategies.

Here are some practical ways to avoid tooth sensitivity this winter and keep your family smiling comfortably.

1. Breathe Through Your Nose, Not Your Mouth

When you breathe through your mouth in cold weather, freezing air hits your teeth directly. This sudden temperature change can trigger sharp tooth pain. Try to breathe through your nose whenever possible to protect your enamel from cold-air shock.

2. Warm Your Teeth Before Drinking Hot Beverages

If you enjoy hot drinks, avoid exposing cold teeth to extreme heat right away. Start with a warm (not hot) sip to gently bring the temperature of your teeth up. This prevents sudden expansion within the enamel and dentin, reducing your risk of sensitivity.

3. Use a Desensitising Toothpaste or Fluoride Mouthwash

Desensitising toothpaste and fluoride mouthwash can help seal exposed dentin, strengthen enamel, and reduce sensitivity over time. Use them twice daily during winter for best results.

When to See Your Dentist

Healthy teeth should stop aching once they’ve warmed up. However, if you continue to experience pain or sensitivity, it may be a sign of inflammation in the dental pulp. In these cases, it’s important to book an appointment with Dr. Daniel Kaufman at Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris. Early treatment can prevent more complex dental issues.

At Tooronga Family Dentistry, we’re here to help your family enjoy a healthy, pain-free winter. Please Call us.

5 Dental Care Tips for Kids: How to Prevent Cavities Early in Glen Iris

5 Essential Dental Care Tips for Children: Keeping Kids’ Teeth Healthy in Glen Iris

Research shows that one in four children develops at least one cavity before the age of four. Establishing strong oral hygiene habits early in life is one of the best ways to protect your child’s teeth and gums. With a few simple steps, you can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Here are five expert-approved tips to keep your child’s teeth strong and cavity-free.

1. Keep Your Baby’s Mouth Clean

Even before your baby’s teeth appear, it’s important to maintain a clean mouth. Gently wipe their gums once a day with a soft, damp cloth to remove bacteria and prepare them for future brushing habits.

2. Introduce Their First Toothbrush

Once your child’s first teeth begin to erupt, offer a soft-bristled toothbrush without toothpaste. This helps them practise brushing and become familiar with the routine.

3. Schedule Their First Dental Visit

Your child should have their first dental check-up before their first birthday. Early visits help detect potential issues and help your child feel comfortable at the dentist from a young age.

4. Start Toothpaste at Age Two

Adult toothpaste contains fluoride, which can cause white or brown stains (fluorosis) if swallowed by toddlers. Around age two, most kids can spit, making it the right time to introduce a fluoride-free or age-appropriate toothpaste. Use only a pea-sized amount to keep them safe while strengthening their teeth.

5. Follow the 2-2-2 Rule

Teach your child the simple and effective 2-2-2 rule:

  • Brush twice a day

  • For two minutes each time

  • Visit the dentist twice a year

Practicing these habits helps prevent cavities and promotes strong oral hygiene habits as they grow.

Establishing good dental routines early can save your family time, money, and toothaches in the future. If you have questions about your child’s oral care or want to schedule an appointment, the friendly team at Tooronga Family Dentistry—including Dr. Daniel Kaufman—is here to help.

Recognizing Early Signs of Gum Disease: What Your Gums May Be Telling You

Healthy gums are essential for strong teeth and overall oral health. When your gums are not in their best condition, they often send clear warning signs. Paying attention to these early symptoms can help you prevent more serious dental and general health issues.

Here are the most common red flags that your gums need attention.

1. Red or puffy gums

Redness and swelling are common indicators of inflammation, often signalling the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis). If caught early, this condition is reversible with proper dental care.

2. Receding gums

Gum recession occurs when gum tissue gradually wears away, exposing more of the tooth root. This can lead to tooth sensitivity and may reveal darker areas on the teeth, often caused by calculus (tartar).
Receding gums may be linked to gum disease, but can also result from brushing too hard or grinding your teeth.

3. Bleeding gums

Bleeding gums are never normal. Bleeding typically indicates gum injury—either from gum disease or from brushing with too much pressure. Healthy gums should not bleed during brushing or flossing.

Why early detection matters

Gum disease is both preventable and treatable, especially when detected early. If ignored, it can increase the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers.
If you notice any signs of gum inflammation, it’s important to book an appointment with Dr Daniel Kaufman and the friendly team at Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris for a thorough examination and personalised care.

How Saliva Protects Against Tooth Erosion: Essential Facts for Better Oral Health.

Why Saliva Is Essential for Protecting Your Teeth From Erosion

Saliva plays a crucial role in digestion, taste, and maintaining strong oral health. One of its most important functions is protecting your teeth from tooth erosion. Here are four key properties of saliva that help safeguard your enamel and keep your mouth healthy.

1. Saliva Helps Rinse Away Food and Bacteria

Water is essential not only for overall health, but also for proper saliva production. Salivary glands filter water from the bloodstream, making it a major component of saliva.
Adequate saliva flow helps wash away food particles and bacteria, keeping teeth cleaner and reducing the risk of tooth erosion.
Dehydration or certain medications can reduce saliva production, lowering these natural cleansing effects and increasing your risk of tooth decay.

2. Saliva Neutralizes Harmful Acids

Saliva contains bicarbonate, a natural buffer that neutralizes acids from foods and drinks. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, vitamin C supplements, soft drinks, and fruit juices all introduce acids into the mouth.
While salivary bicarbonate can neutralize most dietary acids, some sports drinks and soft drinks contain very strong acids that exceed saliva’s protective ability. When acids are not neutralized, the enamel and dentin begin to break down, leading to cavities.

3. Saliva Provides Calcium to Protect and Repair Teeth

Calcium is another vital component of saliva. These ions help form crystals with dietary acids—such as citric acid found in citrus fruits, certain wines, and tomatoes—to protect teeth from erosion.
Salivary calcium also supports remineralisation, helping repair weakened enamel that has been damaged by acids and bacteria.

4. Saliva Supports Taste and Stimulates Healthy Production

Saliva is essential for food tasting, and taste receptors help regulate saliva flow. Fresh fruits and vegetables stimulate sour, salty, and bitter taste receptors, making them excellent natural saliva stimulants. Including them in your breakfast helps kick-start the day with a hydrated, well-protected mouth.

When to Contact Your Dentist

Because saliva is so important to your oral health, it’s crucial to seek help if you experience dry mouth, thick or frothy saliva, or difficulty tasting food. Conditions such as diabetes, chronic dehydration, anorexia nervosa, depression, and alcoholism can reduce salivary flow and require careful monitoring.
If you are concerned about your saliva quality or production, contact Dr. Daniel Kaufman and the friendly team at Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris for a thorough assessment.

Why Your Teeth Hurt in Cold Weather: Causes and Relief Tips from Glen Iris Dentists.

Why Teeth Hurt in Cold Weather — and How to Prevent Winter Tooth Sensitivity

Many people experience tooth pain or sensitivity when the cold weather arrives. The good news is that this common winter complaint has clear causes—and several effective solutions.

What Causes Teeth to Hurt in Cold Temperatures?

Our teeth are made of dentin, which is covered by a harder protective layer called enamel. When exposed to sudden cold air—even briefly—the dentin can contract slightly.
This tiny contraction can expose sensitive parts of the tooth to cold air inhaled through the mouth, triggering sharp pain or sensitivity. Once the mouth closes, the temperature returns to normal (around 36.7°C), and the dentin and enamel expand again.

For people who grind their teeth, hairline cracks may develop over time. These cracks are often invisible but can expand and contract with temperature changes, worsening sensitivity in winter.

How to Prevent Cold-Induced Tooth Pain

The best way to avoid sensitivity from cold air is simply to stay warm:

  • Try to breathe through your nose instead of your mouth to limit cold airflow over your teeth.

  • If nose-breathing is difficult, cover your mouth with a scarf to warm the air before it enters.

  • Use desensitising toothpaste, which coats exposed dentin and helps reduce sensitivity.

Clenching and Grinding in Winter

Cold weather can also make people clench their jaw or grind their teeth—sometimes unconsciously—in an effort to stay warm.
This tension can lead to jaw pain, tooth pain, and even cracks over time.
If you clench your teeth, focus on relaxing the jaw muscles and letting the lower jaw drop naturally.

Other Possible Causes of Cold Tooth Pain

Not all cold sensitivity is due to temperature alone. Other dental issues may be involved, including:

  • Old amalgam fillings that expand and contract with temperature changes, sometimes cracking the surrounding tooth structure

  • Gum infections, which can cause significant sensitivity or sharp pain when exposed to cold air

If you experience ongoing sensitivity, it’s important to have it assessed. Call  Dr Daniel Kaufman and the team at Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris for personalized treatment options and advice.

Stay warm, and don’t ignore those chilly warning signs from your teeth!

Toothpaste Allergies: Signs, Causes and Safe Alternatives | Glen Iris Dentist

Toothpaste Allergies: Symptoms, Causes and How to Find Relief

Toothpaste allergies are uncommon, but for those who experience them, they can be uncomfortable and persistent. Allergic reactions often appear as irritation around the mouth and may worsen over time if the cause isn’t identified.

Common Symptoms of Toothpaste Allergies

If you are sensitive or allergic to an ingredient in your toothpaste, you may notice symptoms such as:

  • Inflamed or cracked lips

  • Redness at the corners of the mouth

  • Irritation on the palms (especially on the hand holding the toothbrush)

  • Burning or irritation of the tongue or gums

  • Increased gum or tooth sensitivity

  • Mouth ulcers that do not heal

If you experience any of these signs, schedule an appointment with Tooronga Family Dentistry for a proper assessment.

What Causes Toothpaste Allergies?

Most toothpaste allergies stem from flavouring ingredients, especially strong flavours such as:

  • Spearmint

  • Cinnamon

  • High-intensity mint blends

These flavours are often not clearly listed on toothpaste packaging, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact trigger.

Other Possible Irritants in Toothpaste

In addition to flavourings, several other ingredients can cause irritation or allergic reactions:

  • Cocamidopropyl betaine (CPB): A foaming agent derived from coconut oil, common in toothpaste and shampoo

  • Propylene glycol: A preservative and mixing agent

  • Essential oils

  • Antibacterial additives

These substances can also be found in chewing gum, mouthwash, and other oral care products, which may trigger similar symptoms.

What to Do if You Suspect a Toothpaste Allergy

If you experience any allergic symptoms, consult your GP or Dr. Daniel Kaufman so the irritant can be properly identified.
Many patients find that symptoms disappear after they stop using the offending toothpaste. Once you know which ingredient is causing the reaction, Dr. Daniel Kaufman can help you find a hypoallergenic or ingredient-free alternative.