According to the National Institute of Health, cases treated with tooth extractions have decreased by 20% in the past 32 years. In saying this, it is still estimated that 1 in 4 people in Australia have had a dental extraction [1].

Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure and it is crucial to follow proper aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery. Whether you've recently had a tooth pulled or are preparing for the procedure down the track, this guide will walk you through the essential steps for effective home treatment post-extraction to establish maximum comfort. 

Prior or following your extraction, your dentist or their clinical staff will most likely run you through all the aftercare information following your appointment. It can be difficult to absorb all the information post procedure as you may be feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable. 

I know when I had my first extraction as an adult on a weak and broken molar, not only was I sore and numb, I just wanted to get out of there as soon as possible and didn’t ask any questions or really listen to what the dentist was saying. A root canal was not financially feasible at the time for a part-time barista, full-time student. Sadly I had to say goodbye to the tooth and following the appointment, I didn’t hear a word the dentist was saying. I just wanted to get out as soon as possible to the comfort of my bed whilst clutching the saliva covered gauze in my mouth and stroking my numb, lifeless cheek. All I remembered was him saying “be careful if you do eat because you might bite your cheek as it’s still numb”. 

Immediately after the extraction, your dentist will place a gauze pad over the extraction site. Apply gentle pressure by biting down to control the bleeding. Change the gauze as needed, following your dentist's instructions.

Why does the dentist place a gauze following an extraction?

The gauze is placed to help minimize the bleeding. The idea is for a blood clot to form in the socket where your tooth was as the bone grows back in. 

Rest is key during the first few hours. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the affected area (on your face, not inside your mouth) in 15-minute intervals to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. It is also recommended to not eat for the first 4 hours, especially when you are still numb as you may burn yourself when eating hot foods or accidentally bite your mouth/cheeks without knowing. 

Continue with your oral hygiene routine, but be gentle around the extraction site. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid the extraction area during the first 24 hours.

The day after your extraction, you can rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution (1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day to promote healing and reduce bacteria. Keeping your mouth clean will keep food particles and bacteria away from the wound. 

Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your dentist. We often ask patients to avoid aspirin, especially if you experience bleeding. 

Stick to a soft diet for the first few days, incorporating foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hot, spicy, and crunchy foods that may irritate the extraction site.

Stay hydrated, but avoid using straws during the initial recovery period, as sucking motions can dislodge blood clots and impede healing.

Common post extraction symptoms may include bleeding, swelling and bruising. A small amount of bleeding is normal initially. If bleeding persists, bite down on fresh gauze or a damp tea bag. The pressure will alleviate the bleeding whilst you contact your dentist.

Mild swelling and bruising are common. Apply ice as mentioned earlier against your cheek to reduce swelling, and it should subside within a few days.

What should you avoid following an extraction?

We often ask our patients to avoid smoking, vaping and alcohol for at least 72 hours, as they can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

We also advise to avoid strenuous activities and exercise for a few days to prevent excessive bleeding and discomfort.

Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.

Proper aftercare is instrumental in ensuring a smooth recovery after a tooth extraction. By following these guidelines, you can enhance your healing process and minimize discomfort. If you have any questions or experience unusual symptoms, don't hesitate to contact your dentist promptly. You got this!

Your home healing handbook

A Complete Guide for Post-Extraction Care

In a world where a bright smile is often considered the ultimate accessory, especially in this day and age and the prevalence of social media, millennials are increasingly turning to various teeth-whitening solutions. Among the sea of options, whitening toothpaste stands out as a popular choice for those seeking a radiant grin without breaking the bank. But the question looms: Are these products genuine game-changers or just another marketing ploy? Let's dive into the world of whitening toothpastes and explore whether they live up to the hype or if they’re just a waste of money. 

Whitening toothpaste typically boasts the ability to lift surface stains, brighten enamel, and contribute to a noticeably whiter smile. The active ingredients in these toothpastes often include abrasives, peroxides, or other chemicals designed to combat stains.

The shelves of local pharmacies and supermarkets are lined with an array of whitening toothpaste options. Brands promise everything from dazzling results in a week to a brighter smile with each brush. But do these store-bought options deliver on their claims, or are they merely a mirage of marketing?

In the age of e-commerce, numerous online platforms offer whitening toothpaste alternatives, often accompanied by enticing before-and-after photos. Are these products any different from what's on the store shelves? And can the convenience of online shopping replace the reliability of a trusted brand?

Whitening toothpaste vs. professional dental whitening

It's crucial to approach the topic with a discerning eye. While many users report success with whitening toothpaste, the results can vary. The truth is that these toothpastes may be effective in removing surface stains but might fall short when it comes to deeper discoloration.

For those seeking a more drastic transformation with often guaranteed results, professional dental whitening offers a tailored and potent solution. Dentists use higher concentrations of whitening agents in controlled environments, providing more significant and longer-lasting results. The percentage of bleach dentists are allowed to use is also significantly higher than store-bought dental bleach as it will be applied by an oral health professional. Whitening completed by a dentist, whether it is in-chair or with a take home kit, is generally a much high financial investment than a store or online bought whitening kit due to the fact that the results are almost guaranteed. 

Budget and convenience are often driving forces in our decisions. While store-bought and online whitening toothpaste may offer a cost-effective and accessible option, it's essential to weigh the potential results against the investment.

Here are some considerations to think through when choosing whitening toothpaste as your whitening method:

| Pros | Cons |
| - | - |
| **Accessibility**: Readily available at local pharmacies, supermarkets, and online platforms, making them easy to acquire without a dental appointment. | **Limited Effectiveness**: Results may vary, and store-bought products are not as potent as professional dental whitening, offering only a mild improvement in tooth color. |
| **Cost-Effective**: Generally more affordable compared to professional dental whitening procedures, making them an attractive option for those on a budget.  | **Surface Stain Focus**: As the treatments are primarily effective for surface stains; it may not address deeper discoloration issues as effectively as professional treatments. |
| **User-Friendly**: Designed for at-home use, these products usually come with simple instructions, allowing users to incorporate them into their daily oral care routine with ease and at their convenience. | **Time-Consuming**: Achieving noticeable results may take weeks or even months of consistent use, and the level of whiteness may not match the rapid results promised by some products. |
| **Variety of Options**: A wide range of whitening toothpaste brands and other products (strips, gels, pens) provide consumers with multiple choices catering to different preferences, needs and budgets. | **Risk of Overuse**: Some individuals may be tempted to use these products excessively in pursuit of quicker results, leading to potential damage to tooth enamel and increased sensitivity. |
| **Mild Formulas**: Store-bought products often contain lower concentrations of whitening agents, reducing the likelihood of tooth sensitivity and irritation. | **Quality Discrepancies**: The effectiveness of store-bought products can vary, and not all brands deliver on their promises. Quality control may be inconsistent. |
| |**May Mask Underlying Issues**: While these products focus on whitening, they may not address or reveal underlying dental issues that could contribute to discoloration, potentially delaying necessary dental care. |

This treatment method comes with trade-offs as well. These are some common considerations:

| Pros | Cons |
| - | - |
| **Highly Effective**: Professional whitening procedures conducted in dental clinics use higher concentrations of whitening agents, providing more significant and noticeable results compared to store-bought products. | **Higher Cost**: Professional dental whitening is typically more expensive than store-bought products, which may be a deterrent for individuals on a tight budget. |
| **Customized Treatment**: Dentists can tailor the whitening treatment to the individual patient's needs, ensuring a personalized approach and addressing specific concerns such as deep stains. | **Sensitivity**: Some patients may experience increased tooth sensitivity during and after professional whitening treatments. This is usually temporary. |
| **Quick Results**: Professional whitening often yields quicker results, with treatments such as in chair whitening having the potential to whiten your teeth by 8 shades in one sitting. | **Time Commitment**: While results are often quicker than with store-bought products, professional whitening may still require multiple sessions or follow-up appointments, depending on the method used. |
| **Supervised Treatment**: The procedure is carried out under the supervision of dental professionals, ensuring safety and minimizing the risk of misuse, overuse or burning your mouth and gums. | **Not Permanent**: Whitening treatments, whether professional or over-the-counter, are not permanent. Maintenance and potential touch-ups may be needed to sustain the desired level of whiteness. |
| **Address Underlying Issues**: Dentists can identify and address underlying dental issues that may contribute to tooth discoloration during the whitening process, promoting overall oral health. They can also assess your suitability for treatment and address other oral health concerns if they are present. | **Discomfort During Treatment**: Some patients may experience discomfort or minor irritation during the procedure, but dentists can often address this by adjusting the treatment or recommending post-whitening care. |
| | **Suitability**: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with certain dental conditions, or those with allergies to whitening agents are not suitable candidates for professional whitening. |

In the end, whether whitening toothpaste is a "scam" depends on individual expectations. For those looking to brighten a slightly dulled smile, these toothpaste options might suffice. However, for a more dramatic transformation, professional dental whitening remains the gold standard, especially if you have a special event such as a wedding or birthday coming up. 

Navigating the world of teeth-whitening means facing a myriad of choices. Whitening toothpaste, whether store-bought or online, can contribute to a brighter smile, but the key is managing expectations. Professional dental whitening offers a more potent solution but comes with a higher price tag. In the end, the choice between these options boils down to personal preferences, budget constraints, and the level of brightness desired.

Remember, a beautiful smile is an investment – choose wisely.

What they promise vs. what they deliver

Are whitening toothpastes a scam?

Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling aerosol, often referred to as vapor, produced by an electronic cigarette or e-cigarette. Electronic cigarettes are battery-operated devices that heat a liquid, usually containing nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals, to create an aerosol that is then inhaled. Vaping is often seen as an alternative to traditional cigarette smoking, with the perception that it is less harmful to your health.

Vaping devices come in various shapes and sizes, including e-cigarettes, vape pens, and advanced personal vaporizers (often called "mods"). The liquid used in vaping is known as e-liquid or vape juice, and it typically contains nicotine, although nicotine-free options are available. Vaping has gained popularity, particularly among individuals looking for a smoking cessation aid or those seeking a potentially less harmful way to consume nicotine compared to traditional smoking.

It's important to note that while vaping is often considered less harmful and considerably more affordable than smoking cigarettes because it doesn't involve burning tobacco, it is not without health risks. As it is also relatively new, there hasn’t been adequate time to research the effects and consequences of vaping. Vaping can still expose users to nicotine, which is addictive, and inhaling the aerosol may have adverse effects on respiratory and cardiovascular health. Additionally, there are ongoing concerns and research regarding the potential long-term health risks associated with vaping, especially among younger users. Long term use indoors will also create a film on the walls indoors. 

Vaping, the use of electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes, has gained popularity in recent years, with claims that it's a less harmful alternative to traditional smoking. While vaping may have some advantages over smoking, it's essential to also understand its potential impact on your oral health. In this blog post, we'll explore the relationship between vaping and dental health and discuss what you need to know to protect your smile.

Vaping involves inhaling and exhaling aerosols produced by an e-cigarette. This aerosol, often containing nicotine and various chemicals, can come into direct contact with your teeth and gums, potentially leading to oral health issues.

The fluid in vapes that contains nicotine can be particularly detrimental as it can lead to an increased accumulation of plaque stains and discoloration on the surface of the teeth. 

Nicotine is a common component in e-cigarettes and is known to have adverse effects on dental health:

Dry Mouth: Nicotine reduces saliva production, which can lead to a dry mouth. Saliva is crucial for maintaining a healthy oral environment and neutralizing acids that cause tooth decay.

Gum Health: Nicotine can restrict blood flow, affecting the health of your gums and potentially contributing to gum disease.

Sticky: Nicotine is also quite sticky and can stick your enamel causing other substances to also stick. 

E-cigarettes often contain flavorings, which can have consequences for dental health:

Tooth Decay: Sugary or acidic flavorings in vape liquids can lead to tooth decay and cavities if proper oral hygiene care isn't taken.

Oral Irritation: Some flavorings can cause oral irritation, potentially resulting in sores or other issues in the mouth.

While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of vaping on oral health, there's a growing concern within the dental community about potential risks. The effects of cigarette smoking are far better researched as vaping hasn't been around as long as traditional cigarettes. 

While you're vaping, here are some simple tips to protect your oral health:

Oral Hygiene: Maintaining a strict oral hygiene routine, including regular brushing and flossing twice daily to minimize the impact of vaping on your teeth and gums.

Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule routine dental checkups to monitor your oral health and address any concerns promptly. Ensure you're seeing your dentist every 3-6 months for your routine check up and cleans. (We have a guide on why checkups are so important!)

Seek Support to Quit: If you're a vaper and want to quit, consider seeking support and resources to help you overcome the need to vape. 

While vaping is often seen as a safer alternative to smoking, it's important to be aware of its potential impact on your dental and overall health. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to protect your teeth and gums, you can enjoy a healthier, happier smile for the years to come.

The Hidden Threat: Vaping's Impact on Your Oral Well-Being

Is vaping bad for your teeth?

Ahhhh... to rinse or not to rinse: the post-brushing dilemma. 

It’s Friday night. You’re in your PJ's. It’s raining outside. You’ve had your dinner with a nice glass of pinot and flossed out the shredded chicken from your teeth. You are ready for b-e-d! Plans with your friends have been happily rescheduled and you are ready to Netflix and chill. Skincare complete and teeth are brushed. But as you stand at the sink, you might be pondering the age old question: should I rinse after brushing my teeth? As a little girl when watching movies, I had always noticed that the character didn’t rinse post brushing their teeth and personally always thought that was gross. But as I got older, I’m wondering if I’ve been doing it wrong the whole time. In this blog post, we'll explore the pros and cons of rinsing post-brushing and offer some valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about your oral hygiene routine and care. 

The "Fresh Feeling": For many, rinsing with mouthwash or water after brushing provides an immediate sensation of freshness and cleanliness. It's a satisfying way to cap off your oral hygiene ritual.

Extra Plaque Removal: Rinsing can help remove any loosened plaque and debris that brushing may have dislodged, leaving your mouth feeling extra clean.

Fluoride Retention: Rinsing immediately after brushing may wash away the residual fluoride from your toothpaste, reducing its effectiveness in strengthening your teeth and preventing cavities.

Minimal Exposure to Fluoride: Most toothpaste instructions recommend not rinsing after brushing to allow the fluoride to remain in contact with your teeth for an extended period. This can be especially important for preventing tooth decay.

To rinse or not to rinse? The answer may be a compromise.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Choose a toothpaste with fluoride to provide your teeth with essential protection.

Brush Thoroughly: Spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth, covering all surfaces, and don't rinse immediately. Set a timer or if you have an electric toothbrush, most come with an in built timer.

Spit, Don't Rinse: After brushing, spit out the toothpaste but refrain from rinsing for at least 30 minutes. This allows the fluoride to work its magic.

Rinse with Mouthwash: If you still crave that fresh feeling, use an alcohol-free, fluoride-containing mouthwash separately, ideally at a different time of day from your brushing routine.

Ever seen that ad of that Mexican family choosing between hard and soft tacos, and the little girl comes in and says, “Por qué no los dos” (why don’t we have both)? Perhaps if you can’t decide between the two, you can rinse your mouth in the morning and then not rinse at night, letting the fluoride work its magic while you sleep.

The "to rinse or not to rinse" dilemma ultimately depends on your personal preferences and oral health goals. Remember that the key to maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond rinsing habits. Consistent brushing, flossing, regular dental check-ups, and a balanced diet are all crucial components of good oral hygiene. By striking a balance between your desire for freshness and your need for fluoride protection, you can customize your oral care routine to best suit your dental health and personal needs. Or, you could do both.

What to do in your post-brushing ritual

To Rinse or Not to Rinse?

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey filled with excitement and anticipation. With so much going on on this life-changing journey, its easy to forget to take care of the little things, like your oral health. I noticed myself that during both my pregnancies, my gums would often bleed upon brushing and flossing and feel much more sensitive and tender. They would randomly inflame, ache and bleed. With the hormone fluctuations in your pregnancy, as well as all the nutrients and calcium being diverted to your baby, your body may begin to lack some nutrients. We stress the importance of actively looking after your smile during this time. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the importance of dental care during pregnancy, common oral health concerns, and practical tips to maintain a healthy smile for both you and your baby.

Why does dental care matter so much during pregnancy?

Oral health is closely linked to overall health, and maintaining good dental hygiene during pregnancy is no exception. Here's why dental care is crucial during this special time:

Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy hormones can affect your oral tissues, making them more susceptible to gum inflammation, known as pregnancy gingivitis.

Morning Sickness: Frequent vomiting during pregnancy can expose your teeth to stomach acid, which can erode tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities.

Gum Health and Pregnancy Outcomes: Some studies suggest a link between gum disease and preterm birth or low birth weight. Maintaining healthy gums may contribute to a healthier pregnancy.

Changing hormonal levels during pregnancy mean that your body will react differently to bacteria on your teeth (plaque). This can lead to swollen and bleeding gums and even to the more serious forms of gum disease such as periodontitis and pregnancy gingivitis. 

How do you take care of your teeth during pregnancy?

Here are our tips on the best actions you can take to ensure that your teeth are looked after while you're pregnant:

Schedule a Dental Checkup: Ideally, schedule a dental checkup before becoming pregnant or early in your pregnancy. Inform your dentist about your pregnancy so that they can tailor your treatment accordingly. As many pregnant women are aware, laying completely flat on your back isn't recommended later in your pregnancy so advise your clinician of your needs and ensure that you speak up for yourself. 

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and to prevent developing plaque. 

Manage Morning Sickness: Rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash after vomiting to help neutralize stomach acid. Avoid brushing immediately after vomiting, as it can further damage enamel softened by acid.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help combat dry mouth, a common pregnancy symptom. Dry mouth can increase the risk of cavities, so staying hydrated is essential.

Eat a Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in calcium, vitamins, and minerals to support both your dental and overall health.

Manage Pregnancy Gingivitis: If you experience gum sensitivity or bleeding, don't panic. This is a common symptom during pregnancy. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings can help manage and prevent gingivitis.

Communicate with Your Dentist: Keep your dentist informed about your pregnancy, any medications you're taking, and any changes in your oral health. They can provide guidance and treatment recommendations tailored to your unique needs.

Treatments to be mindful of while pregnant

Dental clinics have special practices in place for pregnant patients but its important for you to make informed decisions. 

One of the most common concerns people have about visiting the dentist while pregnant is being exposed to radiation from x-rays.

Always tell your dentist if you are pregnant, especially if there is a chance that you will need an x-ray. Although x-rays are safe, your dentist may still recommend avoiding them during the first trimester if you're only having a routine check-up. But if you have a dental emergency or severe, non-specific pain, x-rays could still be needed to help your dentist plan your treatment effectively.

However, modern dental x-rays use very low doses of radiation and a single dose is not usually high enough to cause any adverse effects in the development of the fetus.

We generally do not recommend any teeth whitening treatments to be performed whilst you're pregnant and often recommend waiting until after birth for most non-emergency dental treatments.

Teeth whitening and other cosmetic treatments should ideally be avoided during the third trimester in particular, as you may find it uncomfortable to lie still while the whitening gel is applied, cured and working for such a long appointment. 

If you're using a home teeth whitening kit, you should make sure that you check that the concentration of hydrogen peroxide is no more than six percent. Higher concentrations can potentially cause tissue damage unless applied by a professional.

Give yourself one thing less to worry about during your beautiful journey into motherhood by combating your oral health early through a preventative model of care. I booked in my cleans every three months to assist me with the bleeding gums and oral health concerns during my pregnancies which definitely helped ease my discomfort and concerns, even though I never had any issues before or after pregnancy. By following these tips and staying proactive about your oral hygiene, you can enjoy a healthy smile throughout your pregnancy and beyond. Remember that regular dental checkups and open communication with your dentist are key to ensuring your dental care aligns with your pregnancy needs. Prioritize your well-being and that of your baby by nurturing your oral health during this special time.

Take care during your remarkable journey

Dental Care During Your Pregnancy

Having sensitive teeth can be a real pain - literally. That sharp, sudden discomfort when you finally take a sip of that satisfying cup of hot coffee, indulge in an ice cream, slushee, or cold desert, or even breathe in that chilly air. But fear not! Sensitive teeth are actually quite common, and there are steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort and enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without worry. In this blog post, we'll explore the causes of tooth sensitivity and offer some practical tips and solutions to help you find relief and maintain a healthy smile.

Before we delve into the remedies, it's important to understand why tooth sensitivity occurs. The outer layer of your teeth, called enamel, is designed to protect the more sensitive inner layers, including dentin and nerve endings. When the enamel wears down or is compromised, it can expose these sensitive areas, leading to discomfort. Some common causes of tooth sensitivity include:

Enamel Erosion: Over time, enamel can erode due to acidic foods, beverages, or aggressive brushing habits.

Gum Recession: When gums recede, the tooth roots become exposed, which are more sensitive to temperature changes and pressure.

Tooth Decay: Cavities can cause tooth sensitivity, especially when they reach the inner layers of the tooth.

Tooth Grinding: Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can wear down enamel and lead to sensitivity.

You may also experience teeth sensitivity following whitening treatment (whether you’ve done it at home or in chair at a dental clinic). This type of sensitivity is different to everyday sensitivity as it is temporary and often disappears within 24-48 hours following the treatment. 

What can you do to manage sensitive teeth? 

Preventing further enamel erosion is crucial. As you’ve heard over and over again, it is important to brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste twice daily. Avoid brushing too vigorously, as this can exacerbate sensitivity. Finish strong with a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your teeth.

Limit the consumption of acidic foods and beverages such as citrus fruits, soda, and wine to avoid exposure to your enamel. Try to use a straw when drinking acidic beverages to minimize contact with your teeth. Additionally, cut down on sugary snacks and maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium.

Consider switching to a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes contain compounds that help block pain signals to the nerves in your teeth. It is important to not over-use these products and to rotate switching to different brands, as prolonged use may affect the result.

3. Be mindful of your toothbrushing technique

Brushing too hard can wear down your natural enamel and worsen tooth sensitivity. It can also contribute to gum recession in the long run and cause more harm than good. Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle, circular motions when brushing.

If you grind your teeth at night (even if you may not know that you do), speak to your dentist about a custom-made mouthguard. Wearing a mouth guard can protect your teeth from damage and reduce sensitivity.

Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleans. They can identify and address issues like cavities or gum recession early on.

Following your six monthly check up and cleans, dentists or hygienists often finish with a fluoride mousse which aims to strengthen your tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.

In severe cases of sensitivity, your dentist may suggest dental bonding, porcelain veneers or even crowns to cover exposed tooth surfaces and protect them from discomfort or further damage. 

Tooth sensitivity has been a common problem for a while but thankfully there are more ways to manage the discomfort with the right care and attention. Don’t let the pain dictate your life. By following these tips and working closely with your dentist, you can reduce sensitivity and enjoy a comfortable, pain-free smile. Remember, a proactive approach to oral health is key to preventing and addressing tooth sensitivity effectively.

At Home Articles

A Complete Guide for Post-Extraction Care

Are whitening toothpastes a scam?

Is vaping bad for your teeth?

To Rinse or Not to Rinse?

Dental Care During Your Pregnancy

Managing Tooth Sensitivity