Is that noise in the night teeth grinding?

Is that noise in the night teeth grinding?

Your kid’s asleep, but you hear them make a subtle sound—a faint grinding. Are you imagining things? Probably not! If you’ve heard this sound coming from your child, you’re in good company. Teeth grinding (bruxism) affects up to 40% of children, and while that nighttime noise might seem concerning, understanding its causes can help you make informed decisions about your child’s health.

Grinding away oral health

Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, a behaviour commonly seen in children, especially during sleep—a condition referred to as sleep bruxism. While occasional teeth grinding is considered normal and often harmless, persistent bruxism can have more serious consequences. Over time, it can wear down tooth enamel, cause discomfort such as jaw pain, and even disrupt your child’s sleep quality.

Why quality sleep is essential for your child

Every night of deep sleep fuels your child’s growth, strengthens their immune system, and powers their brain development—from processing new skills to storing memories and managing emotions. During these crucial hours of rest, their body repairs tissues, releases growth hormones, and builds the mental foundations for tomorrow’s learning and adventures.
When teeth grinding disrupts this vital process, it creates a chain reaction that affects more than just dental health. The constant muscle tension and micro-awakenings from grinding can prevent your child from reaching the deep sleep stages where most physical and mental restoration occurs. This disruption might show up as:

  • Morning headaches or jaw soreness
  • Daytime fatigue and irritability
  • Difficulty focusing in school
  • Weakened immune response
  • Changes in appetite and mood
  • Reduced physical energy

By addressing teeth grinding early, you help protect your child’s teeth and overall development. Quality sleep gives them the foundation they need to grow, learn, and thrive, making daily activities and challenges more manageable.

Teeth grinding

Why do kids grind their teeth?

Understanding why your child grinds their teeth is key to finding effective solutions. Here are the common factors:

Emotional factors

Stress and anxiety are major triggers for teeth grinding. Children may grind their teeth unconsciously as a way of coping with emotional challenges, such as school pressures, social difficulties, or significant changes at home. This grinding often occurs during sleep as their body attempts to manage stress.

Physical causes

Teeth grinding in children is frequently linked to physical factors, including:

Dental development: As children’s teeth and jaws grow, occasional grinding may occur as their body naturally works to align their bite. This is often temporary and resolves once their teeth and jaws are properly aligned.

Bite misalignment: If a child’s teeth don’t fit together properly, it can put strain on the jaw muscles, causing grinding. The body may try to correct this imbalance unconsciously, leading to nighttime grinding.

Jaw size and breathing difficulty: In some cases, a child’s jaw size may contribute to difficulty breathing, especially during sleep. A smaller or misaligned jaw may restrict airflow, leading to mouth breathing or snoring, which can trigger grinding as the body attempts to find a more comfortable position during sleep.

Medical conditions: Conditions like sleep apnoea or ADHD are known to increase the risk of bruxism. Sleep apnoea, for example, disrupts breathing during sleep, causing the body to compensate by grinding teeth. Similarly, children with ADHD may experience heightened muscle activity, contributing to teeth grinding.

Physical causes

Signs your child may be grinding their teeth

Parents often wonder how to spot bruxism, especially since it primarily occurs at night. Watch for these signs:

  • A grinding or clenching sound while your child sleeps.
  • Complaints of jaw pain, ear pain, or discomfort upon waking.
  • Worn-down teeth or increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
  • Unexplained headaches, particularly in the morning.
  • Disrupted sleep patterns, frequent waking, or restlessness.
  • Cheek biting or indentations on the inner cheeks caused by grinding.
  • Increased irritability or tiredness during the day due to poor sleep quality.

    Long-term effects of teeth grinding?

    Occasional grinding may not be a cause for concern, but persistent bruxism can have serious consequences over time, including:

    Tooth damage: Excessive wear, cracks, or enamel loss, which can lead to cavities or the need for restorative dental treatments.

    Jaw problems: Jaw soreness or more serious conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) that can cause difficulty chewing or speaking.

    Headaches: Repeated grinding creates tension in the jaw muscles, often leading to recurring tension headaches or migraines.

    Sleep disruption: Bruxism can interfere with your child’s sleep, leading to fatigue, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating during the day.

    Gum or soft tissue damage: Prolonged grinding can sometimes irritate or damage the surrounding gums or soft tissues./p>

      Dental assessment

      What can you do about it?

      Professional care options

      Dental assessment: A visit to the dentist is essential for identifying bruxism early. During regular check-ups, your dentist can:

      • Assess tooth wear patterns and identify potential damage from grinding.
      • Evaluate jaw alignment and overall function to pinpoint any misalignments contributing to grinding.
      • Detect early signs of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, which may arise from persistent grinding.
      • Based on their findings, your dentist will recommend an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.

      Custom protection: For children with ongoing grinding issues, your dentist may suggest:

      • Custom-fitted night guards: These mouthpieces help protect teeth from the damaging effects of grinding during sleep.
      • Dental appliances: Special devices can help guide proper jaw alignment, reducing strain and preventing grinding.
      • Ongoing monitoring: As your child grows, their dental needs may change. Regular follow-ups will ensure their treatment plan stays aligned with their development.
      custom fit

      Home care strategies

      Creating a calming environment: Encourage relaxation before bedtime to reduce stress and help your child sleep peacefully:

      • Establish a consistent bedtime routine to signal it’s time to wind down.
      • Dim the lights at least an hour before sleep to promote natural sleep signals.
      • Use white noise or calming music to help create a peaceful sleep environment.
      • Keep the bedroom cool, dark, and comfortable to foster restful sleep.

      Stress relief techniques: For children who grind their teeth due to stress or anxiety, here are some gentle methods to promote relaxation:

      • Introduce breathing exercises to help your child relax before bed.
      • Encourage gentle stretching or calming activities like reading to ease stress.
      • Keep an open dialogue with your child, allowing them to express worries and offering comfort when needed.

      Lifestyle Adjustments: A few key lifestyle changes can help prevent or reduce teeth grinding:

      • Limit screen time before bed to avoid overstimulation.
      • Avoid caffeinated foods and drinks in the evening, as they can disrupt sleep.
      • Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to regulate their body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
      • Ensure your child is getting enough physical activity during the day to promote restful sleep at night.

      Working with healthcare providers

      Coordinated care: Addressing bruxism effectively may require a team approach. Your child’s healthcare providers may include:

      • Regular dental checkups to monitor progress and adjust treatment as necessary.
      • Paediatrician consultations to rule out any underlying health conditions contributing to bruxism.
      • Sleep specialist evaluation, if sleep-related issues are suspected.
      • Behavioural therapy for stress management and coping strategies.
      child oral health journey

        Supporting your child’s oral health journey

        Taking the time to understand your child’s health, which you are doing right now, is a commendable step toward their well-being. Teeth grinding, while concerning, is often a manageable phase of childhood. With early attention and proper care, most children move past it without lasting effects.

        The key to getting through this smoothly is taking action when you notice grinding:

        • Consult your child’s dentist for professional guidance
        • Implement recommended home care strategies
        • Monitor your child’s response to treatment
        • Stay consistent with preventive dental visits

        Remember that you’re not alone in this journey. Your dental care team is ready to help ensure your little one maintains a healthy smile and gets restful sleep. With the right support and attention, your child can thrive—both day and night.

        Inlays and onlays—Faster, stronger smile with 3D printing

        Inlays and onlays—Faster, stronger smile with 3D printing

        Stronger smiles faster with 3D printed inlays and onlays

        You might be familiar with dentistry history, in which fixing moderately damaged teeth usually meant removing a lot of healthy tooth structures to make room for a crown. This approach, while effective, wasn’t ideal for preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible. In some clinics and certain cases, that older approach continues to be used, but there’s a better restoration method now available in modern clinics: 3D printed inlays and onlays. These highly precise restorations fit into or onto the damaged part of the tooth, allowing for a more conservative approach that saves more of your natural tooth.

        With the introduction of digital dentistry and 3D printing, inlays and onlays have become even more efficient and precise. This technology allows dentists to create custom-fit restorations that perfectly match your tooth’s unique shape and structure, resulting in a faster, stronger, and more natural-looking smile.

        What are inlays and onlays?

        Inlays and onlays—Faster, stronger smile with 3D printing
        Inlays and onlays—Faster, stronger smile with 3D printing

        Inlays and onlays are tooth restorations used to repair teeth with moderate damage, such as large cavities, cracks, or fractures. Unlike crowns, which completely cover the tooth, inlays and onlays are more conservative. Here’s a breakdown of their key features:

        Function: Inlays resemble fillings but are more substantial and custom-crafted to fit precisely within the tooth’s cusp (pointed chewing surface). Onlays, on the other hand, cover a larger portion of the tooth structure, extending beyond the cusp onto one or more sides.

        Material: Inlays and onlays are typically made from strong, durable materials like porcelain or composite resin. These materials are chosen for their ability to withstand chewing forces and resist wear and tear.

        Benefits: There are several advantages to choosing inlays and onlays over traditional restorations:

        Preservation of tooth structure: By only replacing the damaged portion of the tooth, inlays and onlays conserve more of the natural tooth structure. This can benefit the long-term health of the tooth and surrounding bone.

        Strength and longevity: The materials used in inlays and onlays are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care.

        Improved aesthetics: Inlays and onlays are custom-designed to match the colour and texture of your surrounding teeth, resulting in a natural and seamless appearance.

        What’s good about 3D printed restorations?

        Dental Restoration

        Faster turnarounds and streamlined visits

        Say goodbye to weeks of waiting! Traditional inlays and onlays involve sending impressions to a lab, leading to multiple appointments. 3D printing eliminates this wait. Dentists can now use digital scans and design software to create precise restorations right in their offices. This can potentially condense the entire process into a single visit, saving you valuable time and reducing the number of trips to the dentist.

        Enhanced precision and potential for longer lifespan

        3D printing boasts incredible accuracy, resulting in inlays and onlays that fit your teeth flawlessly. This precise fit minimises the risk of future problems like leakage or sensitivity, potentially leading to a longer lifespan for your restoration. Additionally, the improved fit can translate to a more comfortable chewing experience.

        Convenience and comfort you can smile about

        Patients choosing 3D-printed inlays and onlays benefit from a more convenient treatment journey. Fewer appointments are typically needed compared to traditional methods. Plus, ditching the uncomfortable physical impressions often used in traditional techniques translates to a more pleasant experience overall.

        Natural look, long-lasting results

        3D printed restorations are custom-made to perfectly match your surrounding teeth, ensuring a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance. These restorations are not just beautiful, they’re built to last. The high-quality materials used in 3D printing contribute to the durability of the inlays and onlays, allowing you to enjoy a confident smile for years to come.

        How 3D printed inlays and onlays are created

        Creating 3D-printed inlays and onlays uses advanced digital dentistry technology to achieve precise and efficient dental restorations. Here’s how the process works:

        Digital X-rays:

        For optimal treatment planning, dentists usually rely on high-resolution digital X-rays. These detailed images allow them to see your tooth’s internal structure clearly, revealing any decay, fractures, or hidden problems. This information is crucial for creating a customised restoration plan that minimises tooth removal and ensures the best coverage for your tooth.

        Intraoral scanning:

        This handheld camera takes a well-defined, precise 3D digital impression of your prepared tooth and the surrounding area. It eliminates the need for messy traditional impressions and provides an accurate model for designing restorations.

        3D printed Inlays and onlays CAD Software

        Smile designing:

        Using advanced smile modelling software like Medit CliniCAD or exocad, your dentist virtually designs the 3D model of your restorations. This software allows for precise adjustments to ensure a perfect fit within the prepared cavity. For the best possible outcome, factors like gap size and restoration thickness are tailored to your unique needs, promoting strength, aesthetics, and bite function.

        3D printing:

        Following the design of your ideal smile, your dentist will use biocompatible resin to 3D print your custom inlay or onlay. These resins, often ceramic-filled, are incredibly strong and designed to mimic your teeth’s natural look and feel. This translates to long-lasting restorations that blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth, creating a natural and beautiful smile.

        Support removal and polishing:

        The temporary support structures used during printing will be removed using clippers or tweezers. Precise removal techniques ensure a smooth surface for the following polishing step. Once removed, the restorations are then polished to achieve a smooth, natural-looking surface that reflects light like your surrounding teeth.

        Cleaning:

        This phase typically involves an initial wash in isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to remove any residue, followed by alcohol spraying and meticulous cleaning with a micro brush. Compressed air drying ensures no moisture remains, which could impact the final result.

        Post-curing in glycerine:

        Your dentist may apply a thin layer of glycerine to prevent moisture absorption before final curing. Glycerine eliminates oxygen, allowing the resin to fully cure and reach its optimal strength.

        Final curing:

        Your restoration is placed inside a UV curing unit for final hardening, ensuring the inlay or onlay achieves maximum strength and durability.

        3D printed Inlays and onlays

        Characterising:

        For exceptional aesthetics, pigments, stains, and textures can be applied to perfectly match the colour and surface characteristics of your natural teeth. UV light is used to ensure proper bonding and curing of the glaze and coats.

        Mock-up wax-up:

        A replica of your prepared tooth is used to verify the fit and function of the completed inlay or onlay. This mock-up step ensures the restoration integrates seamlessly into your mouth and functions properly before actual bonding.

        Might 3D-printed inlays and onlays be right for you?

        If you have a moderately damaged tooth that needs more than a simple filling but doesn’t require a full crown, 3D-printed inlays and onlays could be a suitable option. These restorations are designed to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. Here are some factors to consider:

        The extent of damage: Inlays and onlays are ideal for teeth with moderate damage. If the damage is too extensive, a full crown might be necessary.

        Preservation of tooth structure: Inlays and onlays are less invasive than crowns, meaning more of your natural tooth can be preserved.

        Precision and fit: 3D-printed inlays and onlays offer high precision and a perfect fit, which can enhance the longevity and effectiveness of the restoration.

        Consult your dentist: Your dentist will evaluate the damage’s extent and overall oral health to determine if inlays or onlays are the best option for you.

        Save more of your smile to live your best life

        3D printing is rapidly evolving in dentistry, offering exciting possibilities that give you better results and greater freedom. Efficient, personalised, and durable restorations are available faster than ever before! As this technology continues to advance, 3D-printed inlays and onlays are becoming an increasingly popular choice for those looking to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. Your outstanding results are just waiting to be seen!

        Consult with your dentist to discuss your specific needs so you can experience the benefits of these cutting-edge restorations for yourself.

        Missing tooth solutions for seniors

        Missing tooth solutions for seniors

        As we get older, we begin to deeply appreciate that maintaining our oral health is crucial to our enjoyment of everyday life. Tooth loss demoralise us in our efforts, no matter whether it is the result of tooth decay, gum disease or dental trauma. In severe cases, a tooth may require extraction if it can’t be repaired through dental fillings, crowns or other restorations. However, losing a tooth does not need to have a negative impact on life. What you do about it makes all the difference.

        In this blog, we’ll discuss the effects of missing teeth and the common tooth replacement options for seniors.

        Australian seniors are missing over 13 teeth on average

        In 2017–2018, adults aged 65 and over had an average of 13.7 missing teeth. Additionally, the percentage of adults with complete tooth loss rose with age, from 8.1% in the 55–74 age group to 21% among those aged 75 and over. (National Study of Adult Oral Health 2017-2018)

        What are the effects of missing teeth?

        The impact of missing teeth goes beyond just the physical appearance of your smile. Here are some of the many adverse primary effects of missing teeth:

        Chewing and digestion problems:

        Missing teeth can make it difficult to properly chew food, resulting in improper digestion. Poorly chewed food can strain the digestive system and reduce nutrient absorption, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies.

        Speech impairments:

        Teeth play a crucial role in the formation of speech sounds and words. The absence of teeth, particularly the front teeth, can alter speech patterns, resulting in difficulties with pronunciation and communication.

        Altered facial appearance:

        Your teeth provide facial structure. When teeth are missing, the jawbone may begin to deteriorate, causing facial shape changes and a sunken appearance.

        Bone loss:

        The roots of your teeth stimulate the jawbone, preserving its strength and density. When teeth are missing, this stimulation decreases, resulting in gradual bone loss. This can affect your facial structure and make future dental implant placement more difficult.

        Adjacent teeth shifting:

        When a tooth is missing, the teeth next to it may start to shift or tilt into the empty space. This can lead to misalignment, bite problems and difficulty correctly cleaning the teeth.

        Gum and periodontal issues:

        Due to exposed areas where teeth are missing, the gums can become more susceptible to irritation and infection. These areas are particularly prone to developing gum disease and periodontal problems.

        Self-esteem and confidence:

        Missing teeth can result in self-consciousness, lowering your confidence and self-esteem. You may feel awkward when you smile or interact with others.

        Joint and bite issues:

        Missing teeth can change the proper alignment of your bite, causing problems like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, headaches and jaw pain.

        Oral health complications:

        Untreated missing teeth can result in a progression of oral health issues, including gum disease, tooth decay and additional tooth loss. It can lead to a deteriorating state of oral health.

        Missing tooth solutions for seniors

        Increased risk of tooth decay:

        The presence of gaps between teeth may trap food particles and make cleaning more difficult. This increases the risk of tooth decay and cavities in neighbouring teeth.

        Limited food choices:

        Certain foods, especially those that require significant chewing, may be difficult to consume if you have missing teeth. This may result in a diet with less variety and possible nutritional deficiencies.

        Aesthetic concerns:

        While this is generally the most visible effect, the appearance of missing teeth can have an impact on your self-image and how others view you.

        It is essential to replace missing teeth to prevent future dental problems and preserve oral health, overall well-being and quality of life.

        What are the solutions for missing teeth?

        Dentures

        Traditional removable option

        Dentures have been a popular option for seniors with missing teeth for decades. There are two types of removable replacements: full dentures for those with complete tooth loss and partial dentures for those missing only a few teeth. The advancements in dentistry have resulted in dentures that are more functional and aesthetically pleasing, as well as more comfortable and lifelike.

        Missing tooth solutions for seniors

        Dental bridges

        Bridging the gap

        Seniors often utilise dental bridges as a fixed solution when they are missing one or more adjacent teeth. These artificial teeth are attached to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. Bridges restore proper chewing function and preserve the alignment of the surrounding teeth.

        Implant-supported dentures

        Enhanced stability

        Implant-supported dentures are the optimal solution for seniors desiring the benefits of both dentures and dental implants. These dentures are attached securely to dental implants, ensuring their stability while eating and speaking. This option combines the convenience of dentures with the durability of implants.

        Dental Implants

        Long-lasting restoration

        Dental implants can provide permanent natural-looking replacements for missing teeth. These titanium posts are surgically implanted into the jawbone to serve as a stable foundation for prosthetic teeth. Dental implants restore chewing function and stimulate the jawbone to prevent bone loss over time, which increases in importance as we age.

        Bone augmentation

        Strengthening the foundation

        Some seniors may experience bone loss in the jaw due to missing teeth over time. Bone augmentation, also known as bone grafting, is a procedure that enhances the density of the jawbone. This procedure creates a solid base for dental implants and ensures their long-term success.

        Regular dental check-ups

        Prevention and maintenance

        Prevention is essential for maintaining oral health, particularly for seniors. Regular dental check-ups allow for early detection of potential problems and provide the opportunity to discuss tooth replacement options with your dentist. Your dentist can assist in customising a treatment plan to your specific requirements and desires.

        Missing tooth solutions for seniors

        Regain your smile, comfort and functionality

        Small investments in oral health typically provide massive returns in quality of life. Modern solutions for missing teeth offer a range of options for restoring oral function, appearance and overall well-being. Whether you opt for dental implants, dentures, bridges or a combination of treatments, consulting your dentist is the first step in achieving a more confident smile that lasts throughout your senior years.

        Risks and solutions for problematic wisdom teeth

        Risks and solutions for problematic wisdom teeth

        Did you know that not all wisdom teeth need removal? However, there are cases when these teeth may cause problems such as impaction or infections that need to be treated.

        In this blog, we’ll discuss why some wisdom teeth may require removal, what risks they may pose and how to deal with these problems effectively.

        Common problems associated with wisdom teeth

        Wisdom teeth troubles can cause a range of oral health issues, from tooth pain to severe infections. Some risks associated with wisdom teeth include:

        Impaction and misalignment:

        When there isn’t enough room for wisdom teeth to come through properly, they can become impacted, which means they don’t fully erupt from the gum. Impacted wisdom teeth can grow at abnormal angles, which can damage nearby teeth or cause a lot of pain.

        Gum infections and gum disease:

        Wisdom teeth are generally hard to clean because they are in the back of the mouth. This can cause food particles and bacteria to build up around these teeth, which can lead to gum infections and periodontal disease (a disease of the gums).

        Tooth decay:

        Partially erupted wisdom teeth can be hard to clean thoroughly, which makes them more likely to get cavities. The risk increases when the teeth are positioned in a way that restricts proper cleaning, exposing them to bacterial intrusion and decay.

        Cysts and tumours:

        When wisdom teeth become impacted, cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs, can form. These cysts can put pressure on the jawbone or nearby teeth, which could cause damage. In rare cases, these teeth can develop tumours around them, which can become a very serious concern.

        Systemic impact:

        The potential link between oral infections resulting from problematic wisdom teeth and the risk of sepsis is an often-overlooked but critical concern. Sepsis is a rare but severe, life-threatening condition that happens when an infection spreads through the bloodstream and makes its way to all parts of the body. It is crucial to seek treatment when abnormal symptoms are apparent, as it may be urgent to treat an infected or trapped wisdom tooth.

        Addressing problems caused by wisdom teeth

        Risks and solutions for problematic wisdom teeth

        Regular dental check-ups:

        Establishing a routine for dental check-ups gives your dentist the opportunity to closely monitor how your wisdom teeth grow and align together. This meticulous approach makes sure that any potential complications are identified as early as possible, which significantly reduces risks and future problems.

        X-ray imaging:

        Dental X-rays, specifically panoramic X-rays (OPG), can show you exactly where your wisdom teeth are and how they fit in with the structure of your mouth. This can help you and your dentist make more informed decisions about your oral health and treatment options.

        Expert consultation:

        When you have questions or concerns about your wisdom teeth, your dentist can provide professional guidance and informed suggestions. Dental professionals know a lot about oral health and hygiene, and can give you advice and recommendations that are suitable for you.

        Extraction:

        Wisdom teeth that are causing problems or seem likely to do so are often good candidates for removal. This preventative method helps keep your mouth healthy and comfortable in the long run by preventing buildups of food or bacteria, infections, crowding (malocclusion) and other problems.

        Anaesthesia and sedation:

        Your personalised anaesthetic options will depend on your individual comfort and anxiety levels, as well as the complexity of the extraction procedure. Your dentist will ensure to provide a safe, comfortable and relaxing environment for you during your treatment.

        Tailored care instructions:

        Your dentist prioritises your oral and overall health in the clinic, as well as outside of the dental chair. When you undergo a wisdom tooth removal procedure, your dentist will give you detailed guidance on what to expect and how to take care of yourself afterwards. Their professional advice will assist with a speedy recovery and reduce the risk of post-procedure problems.

        Risks and solutions for problematic wisdom teeth

        Prevent wisdom teeth problems

        Get help from your dentist and act quickly if something doesn’t seem right with your oral health, especially where wisdom teeth are involved. Regular 6-monthly dental check-ups and open discussions with your dentist are the best ways to diagnose and treat any dental problems. Remember that everyone’s case is different, and a personalised approach to managing your wisdom teeth can give you a healthier, more comfortable smile for years to come.

        If you think your wisdom teeth might be causing problems, don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist for guidance and solutions.

        The highest risk factors for tooth decay in children

        The highest risk factors for tooth decay in children

        Poor oral care and hygiene can lead to toothache and pain, with child tooth decay being the most prevalent oral condition among Australian children today. Approximately 42% of children aged 5 to 10 years old have experienced tooth cavities. While there are a range of socio-economic factors – including social, economic, cultural and environmental factors – affecting the oral health of Aussie kids, tooth decay is basically caused by accumulations of pathogenic oral bacteria.

        The type of oral bacteria that cause tooth decay feed on food residue left on teeth after eating refined carbohydrate sugars and starches. These include soft drinks, dried fruits, candy, cake, cookies, fruit drinks, cereals and sweet breads. Oral bacteria metabolise these carbohydrates and produce bacterial acids. As more bacteria and acid is produced, it combines with saliva to form sticky bacterial plaque which spreads over tooth chewing surfaces and the gum line.

        Over time, the bacterial acid damages tooth enamel. Once the bacterial acid penetrates the tooth enamel, it starts to damage the dentine inner layer inside the tooth to cause a cavity.

        Risk factors for child tooth decay

        The factors that significantly increase the risk of a child experiencing tooth decay include:

        • High levels of pathogenic oral bacteria causing tooth decay, including Streptococcus Mutans (S. Mutans) and Lactobacillus spp., which are present during cavity onset and development.
        • A diet high in sugars and starches, especially sweet drinks.
        • Non-fluoridated home water supply.
        • Poor oral care and hygiene.
        • Reduced saliva flow.
        • Acidic or low pH saliva.

        Signs & symptoms of child tooth decay

        Keep in mind that children may not even experience any symptoms of tooth decay until a dental visit. So, late detection of tooth decay is also a risk factor. Early signs and symptoms of tooth decay to look out for include:

        • Chalky white spots on tooth enamel show decalcification.
        • Early cavities have a light brown colour.
        • Deepening cavities have a dark brown or black colour.
        • Toothache and pain.
        • Sensitivity to food and temperature.
        Composite bonding / veneers / edge bonding – the conservative tooth repair solution

        Composite bonding / veneers / edge bonding – the conservative tooth repair solution

        What is composite bonding?

        Composite bonding, composite veneers or edge bonding are dental techniques used when your dentist applies a tooth-coloured resin to the full frontal surface or the edges (i.e. tips and sides) of the teeth. You can also receive composite bonding and composite veneers as parts of the same treatment plan.

        What dental issues can composite bonding treat?

        Composite bonding treatment is a really versatile, gentle and conservative dental treatment used to fix chipped teeth, close gaps, change the shape and size of teeth, and alter a tooth’s colour and shade.

        Whether bonding is used over traditional veneers depends on what issues you have regarding your defective teeth. This includes what shape, size, shape and position you want in the final result. For example, if you have a few minor chips but are still happy with the shape and colour of your teeth, then composite edge bonding is a highly recommended treatment option.

        However, if you’re looking to correct more complex issues such as the shape or size of teeth, alignment, and/or want them looking whiter, then covering the full surfaces of a tooth to build up a composite veneer may be recommended.

        Composite bonding is getting more and more popular as a more affordable alternative to porcelain veneers. It’s also a more conservative and less invasive treatment that requires minimal preparation of your natural teeth and removal of tooth structure and enamel.

        Are you suitable for composite bonding treatment?

        Your suitability for composite bonding treatment is dependent on what results you want to achieve and how healthy your teeth are. These factors can only be assessed via a thorough oral examination in the dental chair.

        During this examination, your dentist will assess your teeth, gums and bite. If you have any dental issues, such as tooth decay, cavities or gum disease, these oral conditions should be treated prior to commencing composite bonding treatment. Likewise, if you clench or grind your teeth, resolving these issues may be required before any cosmetic work can be done.

        Additionally, if your teeth are misaligned, then you may need to have orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners such as Invisalign. If you don’t have your teeth straightened first, then your final results may be compromised in the long term. It’s also a recommended to complete a teeth whitening session before composite bonding or veneer treatment since the colour of the resin cannot be altered once cured.