Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Why wear a mouth guard while playing sport in Glen Iris?

Each year, thousands of adults and children are treated for dental injuries that could have been prevented or minimised by simply wearing a mouthguard. The Australian Dental Association strongly recommends the use of a mouthguard in any sport or activity where collision or contact is likely, during both games and training. Often injuries in sports or activities that occur, are those we didn’t even consider to be a danger. It’s always best to ‘play it safe’ and wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

Who Needs a Mouthguard?

Anyone who plays a sport or undertakes an activity where collision or contact to the face is a risk should wear a mouthguard. Sports such as rugby union and league, AFL, hockey and boxing are ‘no brainers’ because intentional collision, are part of the game.
However, it is sports where accidental collision occurs that are often responsible for dental trauma, such as cricket, basketball, netball, touch football, and soccer. These sports are considered ‘non-contact’ and yet they also carry a risk of accidental collision.
It does not matter if you are just during training or you are during a game, the risk is always there.

The consequences of an injury to the face.

Dental trauma from sporting injury can include damage to the tooth nerve, fractured, cracked or knocked-out teeth, a broken jaw, damage to the tongue and cut lips. Unfortunately, a single event of dental trauma can lead to a lifelong need for dental treatment in order to maintain the strength and health of the damaged tooth or teeth. Some treatments do not last forever so a damaged tooth will often need attention more than once. Prevention is always better than the cure, so play it safe and wear a mouthguard.

The best protection.

The Australian Dental Association recommends a custom-fitted mouthguard for all those who participate in contact sports or sports with high risk of dental injury. A custom-fitted mouthguard that has been designed by Tooronga Family Dantistry makes breathing and speaking a lot easier when wearing your mouthguard. You are overall a lot more comfortable than the ‘boil-and-bite’ counterparts. These are the mouthguard that you can purchase from a chemist or sports store that offer less protection as they are ill-fitted and loose in the mouth, which can be dangerous during impact or they may come out altogether.
It is important to stay safe when playing sports, don’t let an injury take away the fum from the game.

How much time do I need to brush my teeth in Glen Iris?

How to Brush Your Teeth Effectively: Tips for a Healthier Smile

Most people don’t think much about how they brush their teeth—but your technique, frequency, and choice of toothbrush all make a big difference. Brushing correctly helps prevent decay, gum disease, and protects your dental work.

Key Steps for Best Results

  • Brush at Least Two Minutes:
    Morning and night, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head and flexible neck. These are designed to remove plaque and debris gently, preventing damage to teeth and gums. If you have crowns, bridges, or gum disease, you may need more than two minutes and should use interdental brushes for thorough cleaning.

  • Master Your Technique:
    Start at the back of your mouth, holding the bristles at a 45° angle to the gum line. Brush gently in small circles, cleaning outer, inner, and chewing surfaces. Avoid harsh back-and-forth scrubbing, which risks gum recession and enamel wear. Take special care with the inner front teeth—these spots are often missed.

  • Don’t Forget Your Tongue:
    Brush your tongue gently by pushing the bristles forward. It helps reduce mouth bacteria, keeping your breath fresh.

  • Spit, Don’t Rinse:
    After brushing, spit out the toothpaste and skip rinsing. Leaving some toothpaste residue lets your teeth benefit from added protection.

Choosing the Right Tools

Studies show powered toothbrushes remove more plaque than manual ones. Many powered brushes have built-in timers to ensure you brush for the full two minutes. Not sure which brush is best? Ask Dr. Kaufman or the Tooronga Family Dentistry team for advice.

General Brushing Advice

  • Pressing harder doesn’t mean cleaner teeth—in fact, too much pressure damages gums and enamel.

  • Replace your brush at least every three months, or sooner if the bristles start to spread.

  • If your brush wears out quickly, you may be brushing too forcefully. Ask your dentist to help you refine your technique for a gentler, more effective clean.

What to Do After a Dental Accident: Emergency Steps to Save Your Teeth in Glen Iris

Accidents happen — and when they involve your teeth, acting fast can make all the difference. Dental injuries from falls, sports, or everyday mishaps can cause cracks, chips, or even tooth loss. The good news? You can often minimize the damage if you know what to do and when to contact your dentist.

At Tooronga Family Dentistry, Dr. Kaufman and our team are here to help you handle dental emergencies quickly and effectively. Here’s what you should know if you or your child experiences dental trauma.

After a Fall — Don’t Assume Everything Is Fine

Even if your teeth look intact after a fall, there could still be internal damage. Cracks, loosened teeth, or root injuries aren’t always visible to the naked eye. If left unchecked, these can lead to long-term dental complications.

Always book an emergency appointment with Dr. Kaufman at Tooronga Family Dentistry to ensure no hidden damage has occurred. The sooner you get examined, the better the chances of saving your tooth.

Dental Accidents in Children

Bumps and falls are part of growing up, but a knocked-out tooth requires immediate attention. Follow these steps to minimize long-term damage:

  1. Find the tooth — Hold it by the crown (the white part), not the root.
  2. Clean it gently — If dirty, rinse with clean running water. Don’t scrub or touch the root.
  3. Reinsert the tooth if it’s permanent — Gently place it back in the socket, ensuring it’s facing the right way.
    • If it’s a baby tooth, do not reinsert it. Place it in a bag and bring it to your dentist.
  4. Call Tooronga Family Dentistry immediately.
  5. If you can’t replant it, store it in milk or saliva. Older children may keep the tooth in their mouth if safe to do so.

If your child complains of a toothache after a fall, rinse with salt water (1 teaspoon salt in a cup of lukewarm water) and use paracetamol for pain relief. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling — but remember, this does not apply to teething infants.

For broken or bent braces or retainers, remove them and bring them to Dr. Kaufman for adjustment. Learn more about orthodontic emergencies.

Dental Trauma in Adults

If you lose a tooth due to an accident, time is critical — ideally, see Dr. Kaufman within 30 minutes. The faster you act, the greater the chance of saving your tooth.

Follow these steps:

  1. Find the tooth and handle it by the crown only.
  2. Rinse with clean water if dirty — never scrub or soak it.
  3. Reinsert it gently into the socket and bite down softly on a tissue, gauze, or mouthguard to keep it in place.
  4. Call Tooronga Family Dentistry right away.
  5. If you can’t replant it, transport it in milk or saliva.

Final Thoughts

Dental emergencies can happen to anyone — children or adults. Knowing what to do in those first few moments can be the difference between saving or losing a tooth. Keep our number handy, and if an accident occurs, contact Tooronga Family Dentistry immediately for professional care and peace of mind.

 

When does a tooth need Pulp Capping?

What is the Pulp?

The pulp is the soft matter that exists in the center of our teeth, it contains connective tissue and cells that are responsible for the health of the tooth and repair of injury to it. Among the connective tissue cells, there are special cells called odontoblasts that form the dentin around the pulp and are also responsible for providing nutrients and  sensation of heat, cold, pressure and pain to our teeth.

What is Pulp Capping?

The survival of the pulp is important for the health and function of teeth, and it should be maintained and protected as best as possible. If a tooth has broken down or the pulp has been exposed by decay, it is important to protect the pulp from bacterial invasion and mechanical forces. Failure to protect the pulp will result in its death, and lead to a need to perform a root canal treatment or the removal of the tooth.

Given the right conditions the an inflamed pulp can repair itself and the surrounding dentin. To allow the recovery Dr. Kaufman will clean all the bacteria and decay. To protect the healing pulp a bandage is placed over the pulp and then the tooth shape is restored with a composite restoration. This method, called Pulp Capping, protects the pulp and possibly can help in avoiding the need for a root canal treatment.

The extent of damage to the pulp and bacterial penetration will determine if a more conservative approach called “indirect capping” will be used or a more extensive approach called “direct capping” is used. In the indirect pulp capping, a thin layer of dentin is present over the pulp tissue, which provides a barrier between the pulp and the restoration, while in the direct capping, the layer of protective material is placed directly on the exposed pulp. In both cases the final seal and tooth restorations are made of resin to provide good thermal isolation.

If you have a broken tooth, sensitivity to cold or need more information about pulp capping, please contact us at Tooronga Family Dentistry for further information or scheduling an appointment.

 

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.

What Is TMJ/TMD? Glen Iris Guide to Jaw Joint Pain and Solutions

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint—the joint that connects your lower jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. You have one TMJ on each side, working together as a pair. These joints allow your jaw to move both as a hinge and to slide open wider—essential for chewing, speaking, swallowing, yawning, and even breathing.

TMJ Pain = TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders)

Because your TMJ is involved in so many daily actions, it’s prone to wear and problems. Disorders of this joint are called temporomandibular disorders (TMD), a complex and sometimes chronic condition usually causing pain in and around the jaw. TMD can limit your ability to chew, speak, and even express yourself with facial movements.

Common Causes of TMD

Glen Iris dentists also note that those with TMD commonly report other conditions, such as chronic fatigue, headaches, endometriosis, or fibromyalgia.

Simple TMD Symptom Relief Tips

  • Eat soft foods to reduce jaw strain

  • Apply ice packs to sore areas

  • Avoid extreme jaw movements (wide yawning, loud singing, gum chewing)

  • Practice stress reduction and jaw relaxation techniques

  • Try gentle jaw exercises for stretching and relaxing

If your TMJ pain continues or worsens, it’s important to make an appointment with your Glen Iris dentist at Tooronga Family Dentistry for a thorough assessment and personalized treatment.

Healthy Easter Smiles: Glen Iris Dental Tips for Enjoying Sweets Without Overloading on Sugar

Easter in Glen Iris means hot cross buns, cookies, pies, and chocolate at every turn. While a little indulgence is all part of the fun, it’s important not to go overboard on sugar. Here’s how your local Glen Iris dental team recommends protecting your teeth while still enjoying the holidays:

Smart Ways to Limit Sugar at Easter

  • Start with healthy foods:
    At festive meals, put nutrient-rich options on your plate first, then add a portion of sweets on the side—just as much as you actually want to eat. One plate is enough; skip going back for seconds.

  • Keep fresh, healthy snacks handy:
    Stock your kitchen or party table with a visible cookie jar filled with fruit or veggies. When convenient choices are healthy, you’re less likely to grab sugary snacks.

  • Bring better options to gatherings:
    When heading to an Easter event in Glen Iris, consider offering healthy desserts—like dark chocolate-dipped strawberries, homemade pumpkin pie, or refreshing fruit tarts.

  • Wait before dessert:
    Allow 20 minutes after your main meal—your brain needs time to realize you’re full. Try going for a family walk; by the time you return, you may crave less dessert. Walking also helps boost your metabolism.

The Tooronga Family Dentistry team wishes our Glen Iris community a bright, happy, and healthy Easter with your loved ones!

Sports and Dental Injuries: Glen Iris Guide to Mouthguards and Prevention

Staying active is vital for a healthy lifestyle in Glen Iris—but certain sports can put your teeth at risk. Here’s what you and your family need to know about preventing dental injuries while staying fit:

Facts About Sports-Related Dental Injuries

  • Children and teens in Glen Iris have the highest rate of dental trauma from sports activities.

  • The biggest culprits: footy, basketball, cricket, cycling, and hockey.

  • Injuries happen from falls, contact with elbows or hands, or being hit in the face by a bat, ball, or other sporting equipment.

Why You Need a Custom Mouthguard in Glen Iris

Wearing a mouthguard greatly reduces the chance of dental injury on the field or court. At Tooronga Family Dentistry, our custom mouthguards come in three levels of protection, offering the best fit, comfort, and safety.
Store-bought (chemist) mouthguards may seem easy, but often won’t stay in place when you need them most.

What To Do After a Dental Injury

If you or your child suffers a dental injury during sport, make an appointment immediately with Tooronga Family Dentistry for emergency care.
If the person lost consciousness, has unstoppable bleeding, or deep face or tongue cuts, seek urgent medical attention right away at your nearest emergency facility.

Stay safe and keep scoring goals—with a protected, healthy Glen Iris smile!

Loose Tooth in a Child? Glen Iris Family Dentistry Advice for Parents

A loose tooth in your child’s mouth isn’t always a sign that a permanent tooth is ready to come out. Kids in Glen Iris sometimes bump or knock their teeth while playing or falling. If your child’s tooth becomes loose unexpectedly, book an emergency appointment with the Glen Iris dental team at Tooronga Family Dentistry to rule out infection or damage to the underlying permanent tooth.

When Should a Loose Tooth Worry Glen Iris Parents?

  • Children typically lose their teeth in the same order they appeared, starting around age 6.

  • If a tooth is loose “too early” or not in the usual order, don’t try to pull it out—it may cause pain or unnecessary trauma.

  • If you’re unsure why a tooth is mobile, or it seems out of sequence for your child, get in touch with your Glen Iris dentist for advice.

When “Baby Teeth Hang On” Too Long

Sometimes baby teeth linger when the adult teeth below are ready to erupt. If baby teeth aren’t removed, they can force the permanent teeth to erupt in the wrong spot, which may result in bite misalignment or crowding.
In cases where a permanent tooth breaks through behind or in the wrong position (for example, the upper front tooth erupting behind the lower), prompt extraction and dental assessment are needed to prevent future orthodontic complications.

If your child is having issues with permanent teeth coming through, contact Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris for a thorough evaluation and a gentle, effective treatment plan.