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Unfortunately, there are times when the damage to a tooth is too extensive and a tooth extraction is needed. It will rarely be the first option for repair put forward and, in many cases, other options such as a filling or a crown may help you retain your tooth for longer. If and when the time comes for a tooth to be removed, there are often many questions which arise. Here are a few answers to give you peace of mind before your next dental visit.

Why would I need a tooth extraction?

The top 5 reasons that you may need an extraction are outlined below.

1. Significant tooth decay or damage to the tooth
2. Gum disease
3. To improve appearance, in conjunction with orthodontic treatment
4. Extensive tooth cracks, fracture or trauma
5. Poor positioning or tooth functionality (e.g. impacted wisdom teeth)

A consultation with your dentist will help outline all that is involved with any of the above reasons for an extraction. Of course, if you are having regular dental check-ups you will already be aware of any ongoing issues with your teeth which may lead to the removal of a tooth in future.

What can you expect with a tooth extraction?

It’s important to note that not all tooth removals will be performed in the same way. Your dentist will discuss the best treatment options with you and will require an x-ray of the tooth concerned in order to view the root location and formation, as well as the density of the supporting bone before making a decision on the best tooth removal method for you.

The vast majority of tooth extractions are completed in the dental chair using local anaesthetics, however for more complex cases or where patients are highly anxious or phobic, alternative options such as intravenous (IV) sedation or general anaesthetic in a private hospital are available.

Your dentist will advise you about the complexity of the extraction taking into account your health, age, the location of the tooth and the complexity of the root formation when determining the best method of extraction for your tooth, and whether a referral to a specialist is required.

How much does it cost to have a tooth removed?

The cost of having a tooth removed (tooth extraction) can range from $180 and $400* depending on the complexity of the extraction and the need for any additional procedures.

This cost estimate does not include any consultation costs or x-rays that may occur as a part of the extraction appointment which will assist your dentist in determining the most effective extraction method for your circumstances.

Protecting your teeth early

The simple answer to reducing the chances of a tooth extraction is ongoing preventative dental care. Taking care of your teeth consistently will help prevent gum disease and cavities which can all lead to larger dental issues in future. This involves brushing twice daily and flossing as well as ensuring you attend regular 6 monthly check-ups with your dentist.

It’s also important to remember that accidents do happen and is one of the major causes of a tooth removal procedure. When you know you will be undertaking an activity that has a high chance of damage to your teeth such as sports, ensure you get fitted for an appropriate mouth guard by your dentist. It might just save your teeth in future.

If you think you might need a tooth removed contact your nearest nib Dental Care centre.

 

*Prices are indicative and may vary by practitioner. Tooth extraction complexity will also play a part in the final price. The price indicated does not include any consultation costs or x-rays that may occur as part of the extraction appointment.

 

Ever felt your teeth ache on a cold day and thought it must be a coincidence? The reality is that our teeth can be affected by extreme cold or heat. This pain associated with cold weather often affects people who have similar sensitivities to cold or hot food such as ice-cream and hot and cold drinks.

How the cold affects your teeth

Temperature changes in the mouth from breathing in cold air, (or from cold and hot food and drinks) causes miniscule movement of fluid inside any area of exposed tooth dentine, which in turn stimulates nerves inside the tooth leading to sensitivity or pain.

Exposed dentine results from the loss of the enamel covering of your teeth. Enamel protects dentine, allows you to chew and prevents extremes of hot and cold temperatures reaching the nerves.

Enamel can be lost as a result of tooth decay, tooth wear from clenching or grinding or from chips and fractures of teeth. Tooth dentine can also become exposed if you have gum recession or suffer from gum disease.

Sensitivity or pain from teeth can lead to those winter months dragging out and have a negative impact on your life through a decrease in activities and lifestyle in an effort to avoid further dental pain.

What steps can you take?

There are some steps you can take to help you get through the winter months and protect your enamel without experiencing this pain.

1. Use sensitive teeth toothpaste

Use a toothpaste that is specifically designed for sensitive teeth. It can help to brush at least half an hour before going outside. Your dentist will be able to recommend a brand that is best for you. To give the toothpaste the best chance of working, don’t eat or drink after brushing

2. Use the right toothbrush

Use a soft bristled toothbrush and brush in a circular motion. It’s also important to brush gently in order to further protect the enamel on your teeth.

3. Don’t use teeth bleaching products

Unless your dentist advises that its safe for your teeth to do so, teeth bleaching products can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity. If you’re already experiencing pain from sensitivity, this can only make matters worse.

4. Teeth clenching

Over time this habit can cause further breakdowns in the enamel of your teeth. Speak to your dentist about options which may be available to help you with this

5. Visit your dentist

Your dentist will be able to identify any areas of exposed dentine in the mouth and recommend options to fix the issues leading to sensitivity.

How teeth sensitivity impacts you long term?

Left untreated, sensitivity can continue to worsen, become more constant or even cause irreversible damage to the tooth. Additionally, there is often a negative impact on the quality of life of those living with pain. Ensuring your teeth are well cared for with regular brushing and flossing will help minimize any further damage. Speak to your dentist at your next check-up about additional options such as a fluoride or a desensitizing treatment. Your dentist may also recommend getting your teeth sealed to help protect them and decrease the pain you experience.

 

The benefits of being confident with your smile can not be underestimated. One way to be even more confident with your smile is through whitening your teeth. There are several methods available so understanding your options and how they impact your overall oral health is important.

Myth 1: Damage is caused from whitening teeth

While there are many over-the counter toothpastes, gels and strips readily available, it’s your dentist who is the best qualified to determine if your teeth will benefit from whitening. Our teeth naturally turn more yellow and darken as we get older so this should not be a major cause for concern in most cases. Your dentist will be able to determine the cause of any discolouration in order to provide advice on the whitening treatment that will be the most effective for you.

It’s important that you only seek to gain whitening advice and treatment from a professional who understands the full impact that this can have to your teeth. Incorrect use of bleaching products can in fact lead to irreversible damage to your teeth and gums. This includes any home whitening remedies (and we know there are many).

Incorrectly applying whitening treatments can also result in chemical burns to your gums, causing pain, blisters and discolouration. However, issues can still arise even when no injury occurs, often ending with uneven and lacklustre results.

Your teeth are precious, and you need them to last you as long as they possibly can, so although it can be tempting to DIY, treat your teeth well are and visit your dentist for their expert advice.

Myth 2: Teeth whitening can be painful

The teeth whitening procedure itself should never be painful. If you are experiencing pain at any point, it is could be your bleaching solution has been incorrectly applied and should be immediately removed. Visit your dentist to ensure that no permanent damage has occurred.

It’s important to note that some people do experience an increase in tooth sensitivity after a whitening treatment has been completed. This is often experienced when eating hot or cold foods for around 48 hours after the bleaching procedure takes place. If you do experience any severe pain, you should see your dentist as soon as possible.

Fact 1: Teeth whitening guided by a dentist is the best method

There are many nuances to our teeth. Your dentist is going to take into account all of these when recommending a whitening treatment for you. They will even consider your fillings, crowns and veneers which do not change colour with any whitening treatments.

In a lot of cases, a regular clean and polish will have a positive impact on the colour of your teeth through the removal of any surface stains. Your dentist can even replace any old fillings or veneers that can help to brighten your smile.

Getting whitening advice and treatment from anyone other than a dentist could lead to long-lasting, damage to your teeth.

Fact 2: Whitening by your dentist works better than DIY versions

This is in fact true. The strength of whitening solutions that a dentist is allowed to use is much higher than that of any DIY product available online and instore, meaning you will end up with better results than any of these products. Your dentist is also able to make recommendations specific to your teeth around timings for your treatment and the best ongoing after-care for your newly white smile.

Dentist-supplied take home whitening kits:

If you prefer the convenience of whitening your teeth alongside the comfort of your couch, your dentist also has whitening kits that you can take home. Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth to make custom fitted trays. Once home, you follow the instructions laid out by your dentist to achieve a bright white smile.

Whitening treatments in-chair:

A stronger bleach concentration can be used when getting your teeth whitened ‘in-chair’ at the dentist. The solution is applied by your dentist and is activated using an ultra-violet light or laser. The benefits of this type of treatment are often immediate. Your dentist will likely recommend the use of a take-home kit for a continued bright white smile.

If your Dentist lets you know that a bleaching treatment will not be beneficial for your teeth, ask them about the other types of things that can be done to help brighten your smile and boost your confidence. Book an appointment to find out more.

 

*Please note that many healthfunds (including nib) do not provide any rebates for tooth whitening or cosmetic treatments.

 

Great news! Our centres are open and ready to provide treatment to support you and your family’s oral health. Improving the oral health of all Australians to world’s best is our true propose and we remain focused on your health and safety.

nib Dental is committed to caring for the health and well-being of our patients, dentists and employees in all our local communities. We are indebted to the wider healthcare community continuing to work tirelessly to contain and treat those with COVID-19.

It’s important to maintain regular check-ups with your dentist. Regular dental check-ups can prevent the need for major dental work in the future and is far more cost effective than allowing problems to go on undetected. Patients with nib health insurance coverage have access to 100% back on check-ups and cleans. Check-ups, cleans and associated services are often subsidised or provided with “no-gaps” to members of other private health insurance funds who have extras or ancillary cover also.

It is almost never too early to get into the healthy habit of six-monthly dental visits. Children as young as three years of age are advised to visit the dentist for a regular check-up and clean so that they become familiarised with their local nib Dental Care centre to help maximise their chances of achieving lifelong dental health.

Visiting us – STAYING SAFE AND HEALTHY
Our centres continue to uphold the highest clinical standards in line with our stringent and accredited (QIP) infection prevention and control and recommendations provided by the Australian Dental Association. We have introduced additional measures at this time.

Signs of illness

• Patients are being asked to report and not attend nib Dental Care centres if they have any of the following symptoms;
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Shortness of breath

Our staff requests this information at several stages including appointment confirmation, online booking and at reception check-in

We have implemented additional protocols:

• Frequently touched surfaces including our waiting areas, reception desk and door handles are being thoroughly disinfected multiple times a day
• We have removed any toys, magazines and other unnecessary items from our waiting rooms
• Social distancing within our waiting and reception areas has been introduced and hand sanitiser is available to all patients upon arrival

When you visit nib Dental Care, you can have peace of mind knowing that significant health precautions are being taken to ensure your safety and importantly maintain your healthy and happy smile.

 

We’re Here to Help!

Working from home, schooling from home and keeping on top of daily routines is a big ask for all parents at the moment. If you need help keeping your child’s dental health in check, we’ve got you covered!  Track and reward your child’s daily brushing with this handy printable Teeth Brushing Chart. Reward with a healthy snack or online activity – maybe not chocolate!

Download Your Teeth Brushing Chart!