News

What dentists look for when treating patients with diabetes

20/07/2026 by [email protected]

By Dr Allauddin Siddiqi, Periodontist

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, or you have been told you are pre-diabetic, there are a few things you may not know about how it can affect your oral health.

Believe it or not, your mouth is one of the first places where the effects of diabetes show up, it’s also one of the most important places to keep your health under control.

As a Periodontist, Dr Allauddin Siddiqi specialises in the health and care of the gums and the underlying structures that support your teeth. With experience treating gum conditions and supporting patients with diabetes-related oral health concerns, he understands the connection between diabetes and oral health.

“Healthy gums, better diabetes control.

Better diabetes control, healthier gums.”

Dr Allauddin Siddiqi, Periodontist

The connection between blood sugar levels and gum disease

Diabetes and gum disease are closely connected. They don’t just occur alongside each other but can also influence and worsen each other over time.

When your blood sugar is too high, it produces harmful bacteria in your mouth creating the perfect conditions to grow, leading to swollen and irritated gums. What’s not widely known is that unhealthy gums can also make it harder to keep your blood sugar under control.

It can become a vicious cycle, where high blood sugar can affect your gums, while gum disease can make your diabetes harder to manage.

This is why looking after your gums isn’t just about your mouth and oral care. For people with diabetes, it’s a real part of managing the condition itself.

How diabetes affects your teeth and gums

When a patient with diabetes visits a dentist thorough examination of your teeth and gums is an important first step.

First measuring the depth of the pockets between each tooth and the gum. Healthy pockets are shallow, while deeper pockets signal that infection and bone loss may be developing beneath the gumline.

Dentists will also look at the colour, texture and condition of your gum tissue. Red, swollen or bleeding gums are a sign of active inflammation. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue, if left untreated, diabetes gum disease can destroy the bone that holds your teeth in place.

X-rays are also used to give insight on any jawbone loss that isn’t visible during the physical examination. Where bone loss has already occurred, determining how far things have progressed and creating a treatment plan to bring it back under control is the next step.

Why more frequent appointments matter

For most patients, its recommended you keep up your twice-yearly dental check-ups.

However, this recommendation can increase to three to four times a year depending on a patient’s blood sugar and overall gum health.

As more frequent professional cleaning and monitoring can help catch deterioration early and prevent problems from getting worse.

What does good oral care for diabetics look like?

Before your next appointment, make sure you tell your dentist you have diabetes or pre-diabetes. Let them know what medications you take and how your blood sugar has been tracking.

If you have your blood sugar levels history on an app, show them the results on your phone. This information can help dentists examine you and plan your care.

At home, brush twice daily and floss every day. It’s also important to watch for early warning signs, such as bleeding gums, gums pulling away from your teeth or persistent bad breath.

The sooner you act on these signs, the better the outcome.

Take action today

If you have diabetes, pre-diabetes or you are simply serious about protecting your long-term health, book your nib Dental appointment to speak about your gum health with a professional now.

Dr Allauddin Siddiqi is a specialist Periodontist and research scholar.

Should I replace my old fillings?

20/07/2026 by [email protected]

One of the most common questions people have about their dental health is: “Do my old fillings need replacing?”

It’s a great question, and the answer depends on their condition. So, what should you look out for and when it might be time for a filling refresh.

Signs your filling needs attention

Your fillings work hard to protect your teeth, but they don’t last forever. Here are some telltale signs that yours might need replacing:

Visible damage is often the most obvious clue. If you can see cracks, chips, or gaps around your filling, then it’s time for a check-up. These openings can allow bacteria to sneak in and cause decay beneath the filling.

Tooth sensitivity that’s new or getting worse can indicate your filling isn’t sealing properly anymore. If you notice discomfort when sipping your favourite hot latte or consuming a cold ice cream, then your tooth might be trying to tell you something.

Pain when biting down is another red flag. A compromised filling can create pressure points or expose sensitive areas of your tooth, making chewing meals uncomfortable.

Discoloration around the filling or changes in your tooth’s colour can signal problems brewing underneath. Dark spots or staining might mean decay is developing where you can’t see it.

Roughness you can feel with your tongue often means the filling is wearing down or breaking apart.

How long do fillings last?

Depending on care and conditions dental fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on the type of material used and your individual habits. Things like teeth grinding, diet, and oral hygiene all play a role in how long your fillings hold up.

This is why regular dental check-ups are so important. Your dentist can spot early warning signs during routine examinations; often before you notice any symptoms yourself. Catching issues early means simpler, less extensive treatments down the track.

Timely filling replacement does matter

Replacing worn-out fillings isn’t just about aesthetics (though we have to admit, modern filling materials do look fantastic!). It’s crucial for your overall oral health.

When old fillings aren’t replaced in time, you risk complications like persistent pain, further tooth decay, or even tooth loss.

By staying on top of filling maintenance, you’re protecting your teeth, maintaining comfort, and the biggest thing here, avoiding more complex dental work in the future.

A good way to compare, it’s a bit like getting your car serviced on a regular basis, minor repairs and maintenance now can prevent bigger problems later.

What about amalgam fillings?

If you have older silver (amalgam) fillings, you might be wondering whether they need special attention. Over time, these metal fillings can corrode, crack, or cause tooth discoloration due to the material’s natural expansion and contraction. In some cases, decay can develop underneath without you even realising.

However, if your amalgam fillings are still intact and functioning well, your dentist generally won’t recommend removing them just for the sake of it.

Unnecessary filling removal can actually cause more harm than good. The key is having them regularly monitored so your dentist can make informed recommendations based on their actual condition.

Your smile deserves the best care

At the end of the day, looking after your fillings is part of looking after your overall dental and mouth health. Regular check-ups, good oral hygiene habits and addressing issues promptly all contribute to keeping your teeth healthy and comfortable for years to come.

If you’re concerned about any of your fillings or it’s been a while since your last check-up, don’t hesitate to book an appointment. Your dentist is there to help you maintain your dental health and can answer any questions you might have about your specific situation.

Taking care of your teeth is an investment in yourself and nib Dental are here to support you every step of the way!

If you want to find out more about replacing your old fillings and brightening your smile, make an appointment with a nib Dental dentist today.

Dental Health Week 2026: Win a kids electric toothbrush

15/07/2026 by Erica Thomson

Dental Health Week 2026 is fast approaching and to celebrate we would like to give all kids the opportunity to win an electric toothbrush and show their teeth some love. Download and enter our Dental Health Week colouring-in competition for a chance to win.

My Smile

Running from Monday 3 to Sunday 9 August, Dental Health Week provides us with the perfect opportunity to remind you to book your whole family in for their regular dental check-ups. Regular check-ups are important to help identify early signs of tooth decay and reduce major dental work down the track.

This year’s Australian Dental Association campaign, My Smile, is shining a spotlight on young Australians and the everyday habits that protect their smiles — from wearing mouthguards during sport, to understanding wisdom teeth, to steering clear of risky DIY cosmetic trends. It’s a great reminder that good habits started young last a lifetime, which is exactly why we love celebrating Dental Health Week with the whole family — including our youngest patients.

Our centres are open weekends and extended hours with appointments available to support your dental needs.

Book an appointment at your local Pacific Smiles Dental centre and don’t forget to check if your kids are eligible for over $1000 in free* dental thanks to the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.

Download your Colouring-In Competition here

Terms & Conditions

Instructions on how to enter this promotion form part of the terms and conditions of entry. By participating in this competition, entrants agree to be bound by these terms and conditions.
The promoter is Pacific Smiles Group Limited (ABN 42 103 087 449) of 6 Molly Morgan Drive, East Maitland NSW 2323.
Entry is open to all Australian residents aged 18 years and under. Employees (and their immediate families) of the Promoter and its related companies are not eligible to enter.
The promotion commences at 12:01am AEST on 4th August 2025 and closes at 11.59pm AEST on 17th August 2025 (Promotion Period).
To enter, Eligible Entrants must complete step 6 during the Promotion Period. Incomplete, illegible, or indecipherable entries will be deemed invalid. One entry per person is permitted. By entering this promotion, you agree to receive information and marketing communications via email, mail, or phone.
Entrants must upload an image of their completed colouring sheet and email to [email protected] or send by post Attention: Marketing, PO Box 2246, Green Hills NSW 2323. Only one entry per person will be accepted.
The Promoter reserves the right to verify the validity of entries and to disqualify any Eligible Entrant whom the Promoter believes either has tampered with the entry process or has submitted an entry otherwise than in accordance with these terms and conditions of entry.
The Promoter will not be held liable for any failure of receipt of entries. The Promoter takes no responsibility for any entries which are lost, delayed, illegible, corrupted, damaged, incomplete, or otherwise invalid.
Winners will receive a Colgate ProClinical Electric Toothbrush valued at $50. There will be 5 prizes given away across all age groups.
The prizes are as stated, and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. The Prize cannot be used in conjunction with any other special offer. The prize is not exchangeable, transferable or redeemable for cash. If the Promoter is unable to supply the nominated prize, the Promoter reserves the right to supply another prize of greater or equal value.
The winners of the prizes will be notified on 22nd August 2025 via telephone, then by email if no response.
In the event that the prize is not claimed by 11:59pm AEDT on the 29st August 2025 the judges will select an alternate winner. In the event that the alternate winner does not claim their prize by 11:59pm AEDT on the 5th September 2025 then the prize will be forfeited by the winner and neither cash nor any other prize will be awarded in lieu of that prize.
Eligible Entrants agree, at the Promoter’s request, to participate in any promotional activity (such as social media posts) surrounding this promotion or the winning of any prize. Eligible Entrants agree that they will not be remunerated for this participation. Eligible Entrants consent to the Promoter, its respective officers, employees, agents and associated companies using their name and image in any media in perpetuity, without limitation and without compensation to the Eligible Entrant.
To the fullest extent permitted by law and without limiting any other conditions of entry, the Promoter may, in its discretion, terminate, modify or suspend the promotion. All Eligible Entrants participating in the promotion at the point of termination, modification or suspension of the promotion will be notified by the Promoter in writing. In the event of modification or suspension of the promotion, the Eligible Entrant may choose to terminate their participation in the promotion at no cost.
Details from all entries, including an Eligible Entrant’s personal and contact details, will be collected and used for the purposes of conducting this promotion (which may include disclosure to third parties for the purpose of processing and conducting the promotion) and for publicity purposes surrounding this promotion. By entering this promotion Eligible Entrants consent to the use of their information as described. Eligible Entrants may access and/or change their data by following the procedures in the Promoter’s privacy policy which is available at https://www.pacificsmilesdental.com.au/privacy-policy.
Failure by the Promoter to exercise any of its rights contained within these terms and conditions at any time does not constitute a waiver of those rights.
Dental services are provided at nib Dental Centres by independent Practitioners. nib Dental is owned and operated by Pacific Smiles Group Limited ABN 42 103 087 449.

6 reasons to use an electric toothbrush

13/05/2026 by [email protected]

Let’s be honest, most of us don’t think too deeply about our toothbrush until it’s time to replace it. One question we’re often asked at nib Dental is whether electric toothbrushes are actually worth considering.

The short answer is that both manual and electric toothbrushes can be effective when used correctly. However, for some people, an electric toothbrush may offer features that make daily brushing easier or more consistent.

If you’re deciding between a manual toothbrush and an electric option, here are six reasons why some people choose to use an electric toothbrush.

1. Consistent cleaning movement

Manual toothbrushes rely entirely on your technique and hand movement. Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, provide a consistent brushing motion automatically, whether through vibration, rotation or oscillation.

For people who find it difficult to maintain steady brushing movements, this consistency can be helpful, especially around hard‑to‑reach areas such as back molars, crowded teeth or orthodontic appliances. It’s a useful option for if you’re looking for extra support with your brushing routine.

2. Built‑in timers encourage full brushing time

Many electric toothbrushes include a built in two minute timer, which can help you brush for the recommended time.

Some models also pause or buzz every 30 seconds as a reminder to move to a different area of your mouth. If you tend to rush brushing or lose track of time, this feature can help promote a more even and thorough clean.

3. Reduced effort during brushing

An electric toothbrush does most of the brushing movement for you, your role is mainly to guide it around your teeth.

This can be especially helpful if you have limited hand or wrist movement, including conditions like arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome that can make brushing feel uncomfortable. Children may also find electric toothbrushes easier to use while they’re still getting the hang of brushing properly.

4. Options for different brushing needs

Some electric toothbrushes offer multiple brushing modes designed for different needs, such as sensitive gums, gum care or general cleaning.

This flexibility can be helpful if your oral health needs change over time, or if you’re dealing with sensitivity or gum concerns. While manual toothbrushes remain effective, these additional settings may suit people who prefer adjustable options within the same device.

5. Helpful pressure awareness features

Many people brush harder than they need to, which can irritate gums and wear down enamel over time.

Some electric toothbrushes have built in pressure sensors that let you know if you’re applying too much force. This can help you become more aware of your brushing habits and support a gentler technique overall, whether you’re using an electric or manual toothbrush.

6. Encourages routine and engagement

For some people, electric toothbrushes make brushing feel more structured or engaging, which can support better brushing habits over time.

The gentle vibration, timer features and feedback can help promote consistency and duration, factors that matter just as much as the type of toothbrush being used. Building a reliable routine is one of the most important aspects of maintaining good oral health.

Are electric toothbrushes right for everyone?

Manual toothbrushes aren’t going anywhere. They’re still a reliable option when used properly, affordable and great for both adults and children.

Electric toothbrushes are just another choice to consider. For some people, they make brushing feel easier or help with consistency. What matters most is brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, using the right technique and keeping up with regular dental check-ups.

If you’re curious about trying an electric toothbrush, your nib Dental Care dentist can help you figure out if it’s a good fit for you.

Why dentures can be the solution for more than just missing teeth

13/05/2026 by [email protected]

Dentures are commonly associated with replacing missing teeth, but their benefits extend well beyond filling gaps in your smile. For many people, dentures can improve comfort, function, confidence and overall quality of life.

Working out whether dentures are right for you is something your dentist can help with, but there are a few signs they could help improve your oral health and overall wellbeing.

When missing teeth become a real problem

One of the most common reasons dentures might be recommended is when you’ve lost several teeth. While a single missing tooth can sometimes be replaced with a bridge or implant, losing multiple teeth can start to affect how comfortably you eat, speak and smile.

If you find yourself struggling to chew certain foods or avoiding meals because they’retoo difficult to eat, this may be your body signalling that your teeth are no longer functioning as they should.

Missing teeth can also affect speech clarity. You may notice a new lisp, slurred words or that others are having difficulty understanding you. These changes often occur gradually and may be linked directly to gaps in your teeth.

Ongoing tooth pain and dental problems

If you’re dealing with tooth pain that just won’t go away, even with medication, it could be a sign your teeth are badly damaged or decayed. Ongoing dental pain can start to take a toll, affecting your sleep, focus and daily wellbeing.

You might be trying to manage the discomfort day to day or hoping it’ll settle on its own. But when multiple teeth are affected, it’s often worth exploring longer term options. In some cases, dentures can be a more practical and cost effective way to restore comfort and function than extensive restorative work.

Common signs you may need dentures

Here are a few signs dentures could make a difference:

missing teeth or noticeable gaps

difficulty chewing or speaking clearly

loose or shifting teeth

ongoing gum pain or inflammation

changes in facial shape or jaw support

severe or widespread tooth decay

Gum disease warning signs

Advanced gum disease, known as periodontitis, is one of the most common reasons people eventually require dentures. Early signs include red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing.

As gum disease progresses, it damages the bone and tissues that support your teeth. This can cause teeth to loosen, shift or fall out and gaps may begin to appear. If these symptoms sound familiar, check in with your dentist as early as possible to discuss your options.

Changes in your bite and jaw

A change in the way your teeth come together, frequent jaw discomfort or recurring headaches can be signs that your bite is no longer properly supported. Missing or severely damaged teeth can cause the jaw to shift, placing strain on surrounding muscles and joints.

Over time, these changes can lead to ongoing discomfort and further oral health complications if left untreated.

When daily life becomes harder than it should be

Not all signs of declining oral health show up in obvious or clinical ways. Sometimes they come through in everyday moments.

You might find yourself holding back from smiling, feeling a bit self-conscious around others, cutting food into small pieces or avoiding certain foods altogether. These changes can feel small at first, but over time they can affect your confidence, nutrition and overall wellbeing.

Dentures can help you feel more comfortable eating, speaking and smiling again and improve your overall confidence.

Are dentures the right next step?

If any of this sounds familiar, having a chat with your dentist is a good place to start. They’ll take a closer look at your teeth and gums, organise X-rays if needed and talk you through the options that might suit you best.

Needing dentures isn’t something to feel embarrassed about. They’re a common, effective solution that help many people feel more comfortable and confident in their day to day lives. Modern dentures are designed to look natural and feel comfortable, while supporting a healthier lifestyle.

Your dentist can guide you on whether full or partial dentures are right for you and walk you through what to expect step by step. Taking action early is the best way to stay ahead of any issues and keep your oral health on track.