The Dentist Brisbane

The Dentist Brisbane

by Bite Dental
December 5th, 2011

We are excited to announce the arrival of Dr. Simon Franks at Bite Dental Studio!  Our aim is to develop Bite Dental Studios, or otherwise known as The Dentist Brisbane into the best dental experience you have ever had. We cater for just about everything you possible need in a modern dental studio.  We have a resident Dental Hygienist, Jenna who has been with us for quite a while, and we will be offering your all the oral health care treatments that you’re accustomed to, pain free fillings, tooth extraction, wisdom tooth removal, teeth whitening, dental implants.  We can help you with all of these procedures and more.  We even include a oral cancer check in our regular dental appointments.

All the while listening closely to all of the good, bad or ugly comments you may have. Book your next  appointment with Bite Dental Studio via the contact us form. The Dentist Brisbane will ensure a relaxed and pleasurable experience for you.

The Dentist Brisbane Team.

07 3221 5399

Categories General Dentistry
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Are Health Funds Worth it

by Bite Dental
March 17th, 2012

Are health funds worth it?

With all the political talk about governments removing funding for health funds with ‘means testing’ and with the second largest Australian fund being brought out by a UK fund the question that we are being asked a lot is – with the proposed 30% increase in cost will they actually be worth it?

Would You Let an Accountant Direct Your Health Care?

Health funds seem like a good idea – when you get sick you get money back for seeking appropriate medical care.  Preventive measures such as going to a chiropractor or a dentist also carry a financial incentive.

What could be better? At first glance taking proper care of yourself comes with a financial gain!

A look at the details shows that you might not get as good a deal as it sounds.

Health funds offer you a rebate for your care based not on what you need, but on what is most cost-effective for them. Health Funds As they are often a private businesses their main concern is to maximise their profits for the benefit of their shareholders.  The way they do this is to have a difference between the rebates paid to each member compared to the premiums received.  This difference can add up where some funds have enough money left over to sponsor the Australian Tennis Open and Summer Test Cricket Series – how that helps you see a ‘healthier you’ is a bit of a mystery.

According to a statement by Australian Dental Association, ‘Health Funds set their rebates at a level that suits their commercial needs. Those rebates are not related to any recognized fee scale or cost of care.’

Since rebates tend to drive the type of care that is sought and given, it’s actually the accountants that end up directing the type of care you receive, how often you are allowed to access it and sometimes even from who you can access it from. These accountants don’t know teeth, and they certainly don’t know you.

But You Save on Tax!!

With the current Medicare rebate the price of basic health insurance can often be the same as what you save in tax.  Private health insurers are posting massive profits (average of $1b in 2009-2010) but with the other hand claiming a payout from the government to keep them solvent.  This is really what the government is crying foul over – and in a way rightly so.    The argument is that this tax revenue would be better off making the public health system stronger and more efficient and more accessible for every Australian.  Not just the ones with health insurance.

Ok, so they make money off me, but what if I get sick?

Well if your name is Clive Palmer a single knee replacement at $15,000 is just spare change.  But the majority of us get a little concerned over this figure.  The maximum amount paid out by Medibank Private last year was almost $500,000 for a premature baby that required a lot of care.  That’s more than the average house price in Brisbane.  So for hospital care some would argue it’s a very good investment.

But what about extras cover?

The ACCC reported that the average rebate for extras dropped from 54% to 48% last year while premiums increased by 8% and this is where health funds don’t add up.  The extra cover received for the premiums outlaid in most policies will actually leave you short changed.  Add to this the rules and regulations like ‘only one visit per year’ and you often are better off not having extras insurance in the first place.

Most Australians will spend up to $1000 per year on health – glasses, couple dental visits and a few chiropractic or physio appointments.  Add to this the $1500 you pay for extras insurance so you can claim ‘something towards this cost’ and ‘extras’ health care really does become expensive – even before the 30% increase in fees.

So what can I do?

Every family or person is different so get some advice before making changes.  Speak to your accountant and see if the savings in tax are still available for you.  Also give a health insurance broker a call and discuss the cover you are on and if it suits what you need for you and/or your family.  Ask yourself the question – do I get value for money from this policy and does it cover what I need for my health.

 

 

Categories General Dentistry
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The Dentist Brisbane – Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

by Bite Dental
March 5th, 2012

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

by The Dentist Brisbane

 Jaw joint arthritis check done each time at Bite Dental examinations.

TMJ Dysfunction – It’s a Pain in the Jaw …

… and the neck, ear, temple or cheek! And what about those headaches?
Say hello to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It’s a seldom thought-of but hard-working part of the body that allows us to talk, chew, eat, swallow and yawn. Let’s discuss what’s right with the temporomandibular joint, what happens when things go wrong with it and what we can do about it.

The Physics of the Temporomandibular Joint

The temporomandibular joint is located where the jawbone, or mandible, connects to the temporal bone that forms the side of your skull. You can easily locate it by placing your fingertips lightly on the sides of your face, in front of your ears.  When you open your mouth, you can feel the rounded ends, or condyles, or the jawbone as they slide out the joint socket.  The condyles will ‘disappear’ from your touch as they go back into the joint socket when you close your mouth. The smooth (we hope) , sliding action that you feel is made possible by a small disc of cartilage that lies between the jawbone and the temporal bone.

That little disc of cartilage absorbs a tremendous amount of force.  The average bite force in humans is estimated to be 73 kgs, which is about the total weight of a typical adult human being.  But that’s just the force on whatever lies between your teeth as you bite down.  Because the jawbone acts like a lever, and the joint serves as a fulcrum (remember your high-school physics?), the joint itself receives even more force.  Fortunately, the cartilage disc lubricates and cushions this action, spreading the force out over the joint space and allowing us to keep on chewing.  Without this cartilage, our poor TMJ’s would quickly ‘grind’ to a halt!

When Good TMJ’s Go Bad

Unfortunately, sometimes things go wrong with this complex structure located in front our ears. Trauma, for example from being in a car accident or getting ‘socked’ in the jaw, is one source of TMJ pain.  If the cartilage becomes displaced – like a ‘slipped’ disc – it can put pressure on the nerves in the jaw while at the same time becoming less effective for absorbing the friction and pressures that come from using the jaw joint.  In addition, the muscles that move the jawbone when it’s being used can spasm and become sore, causing pain and tenderness. More causes of TMJ dysfunction include:

  •  Teeth grinding (bruxism), which often results from stress and commonly takes place at night, during sleep.
  • Excessive gum chewing or fingernail biting, or simply ‘biting off more than you chew’ by taking large bites of food when eating.
  • Poorly-aligned bite, which may result from ill-fitting bridges, crowns or other dental appliances.
  • Arthritis of the temporomandibular joint.

Obviously, if your jaw hurts – especially in front of the ear – that’s an indication of TMJ dysfunction.  The pain may be sharp and sudden whenever you bite or chew, or it may become a dull and constant ache.  Sometimes the pain is so strong and so associated with the ear that patients seek out an ear specialist, convinced they have an ear infection. When this is thoroughly checked out and no infection is found, then the patient is referred to a dental specialist for diagnosis of TMJ dysfunction.

TMJ dysfunction can also produce a range of symptoms, such as:

  • Popping and clicking of the jaw when opening and closing the mouth, as for talking, chewing, etc.
  • Locking of the jaw, making it difficult to close – or,
  • Difficulty in fully opening the mouth.
  • Changes in the way the teeth align which each other, which can cause problems with the bite and even the gums.
  • Frequent headaches or neck pain and stiffness.

 

Bringing Your TMJ Back into Balance

A number of treatments have developed for this all-too-common ailment, some of which have not been thoroughly approved or tested. Fortunately, with early detection, simple and safe treatments for TMJ dysfunction can be quite effective.  Lifestyle changes such as moderate exercise, like 30 minutes of running several times a week, can reduce the stress that leads to night-time teeth grinding, jaw clenching or other psychologically-induced factors that put stress on the temporomandibular joint.

Other remedies suggested for treatment at the early stages include:

  • Eating soft foods that don’t require much chewing, to rest the muscles involved.
  • Avoid chewing gum and excessive jaw clenching. Relaxation techniques may be helpful here.
  • Use of prescribed or over the counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications.
  • Physiotherapy with a specalist jaw joint physiotherapist
  • Moist heat can be applied several times daily to further relax the jaw.
  • In the case of an injury to the jaw, ice packs can be applied soon after to prevent or reduce swelling.

Severe or chronic TMJ dysfunction requires a more intensive approach. A ‘nightguard’ may be made to prevent nighttime tooth grinding and thereby protect your TMJ from further stress or damage.  Sometimes adjustments can made in the bite alignment by filing or polishing the tooth surfaces themselves. This leaves you feeling like you’ve got more ‘space’ in your mouth, and reduces the unconscious tendency to ‘clench’  or grind your teeth during the night.Finally, in extreme cases, surgery may be required to relieve the joint dysfunction.

As we’ve seen with so many other dental problems and issues, catching a problem early makes correction and treatment so much easier. The same thing goes with keeping our miraculously-constructed temporomandibular join working smoothly. At Bite Dental Studio, we do a thorough check for any dysfunction in the jaw joint at each examination visit. That’s because we believe  ‘a stitch in time saves nine.’

 

Categories General Dentistry
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The Dentist Brisbane – Tooth Decay in Children is a Very Real Cause for Concern!

by Bite Dental
February 24th, 2012

Tooth Decay in Children is a Very Real Cause for Concern!

by The Dentist Brisbane

Those pearly whites that often bring a photograph to life need special care and attention to remain in prisitine condition.  However, amidst helping with homework, fixing meals and shopping, it’s tough to remember about your child’s dental care requirements!

child-juiceMost people confuse tooth erosion with tooth decay, which is the progressive loss of tooth enamel as a result of a plaque acid attack.  On the other hand tooth erosion is caused by a direct acid attack by excessive exposure to fizzy drinks and fruit juice.  A recent study revealed that more tha 93% of parents didn’t think their children could have eroded teeth and those who did thought that this dental health problem could be reversed.  Unfortunately it can’t.  Once you child loses tooth enamel it is gone for good!

So what really causes tooth erosion?  There are both extrinsic as well as intrinsic sources from which acid originates.  Intrinsic sources such as acid reflux or vomiting starts from the stomach and lets the acid rise up into the mouth.  Extrinsic sources are acid rich food and drinks such as fruit juice and soft drinks.

Preventative Steps That Can Help

When it comes to oral health it is crucial to identify the problem before it gets our of hand.  When tooth erosion is spotted in the early stages, you can limit the damage caused.  Take you child to the dentist regularly, so they can evaluate whether the erosion is getting worse.

 

always remember tht milk and water are the safest drinks for your children.  Yes we know they will want anything but milk and water, but natural fruit juice contains fruit acids which cause tooth erosion and wear.  Once acid is present in orl healththe mouth it will eat away at the enamel, so remember to dilute drinks with water to minimise the damage.  Most kids like to sip their drinks over  long period of time, but this will be harmful to their teeth as it prolongs the acid attack.  If they finish up quickly, the teeth are not in contact with the acidic or sugar substance for too long.  Don’t leave a baby with a sugary drink in a feeder or bottle for too long nor should you baby go to sleep drinking from a bottle.

Allow your child to drink only water after their bedtime brushing ritual.  Further, when buying medicines, ask you pharmacist for sugar free liquid medicine formulas.

Tell Tale Signs of Erosion

While we try to protect our children from several dangers, we often ignore trouble that could be brewing within their own bodies.  In most cases, dental erosion affects the upper front teeth.  If your child’s teeth appear short, glassy and have uneven tips, then it’s time to do something about it.  Your child may also complain of sensitive teeth especially when drinking cold or hot beverages.  Further, the teeth may appear slightly yellow as the dentine beneath the enamel is darker in colour.

If you suspect that your child has or is heading towards tooth erosion, your safest bet would be to contact our team at Bite Dental Studios.  We offer state-of-art dental care solutions in a safe hygienic and friendly environment so your child can continue to dazzle the world with that remarkable smile!

Categories Tooth Decay
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The Dentist Brisbane – Gum Disease and Diabetes Link

by Bite Dental
February 19th, 2012

Gum Disease and Diabetes Link

by The Dentist Brisbane

Diabetes and Gum Disease – What You Should Know

Here at Bite Dental, we aim to provide a warm, welcoming, and fun atmosphere for our patients – whom we call our friends!  But that does not mean we can’t take your health and well-being at all levels seriously. That includes connecting the dots between oral health needs and other health issues. So let’s be serious for a moment, and talk about the growing evidence for the link between gum disease and diabetes.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which the body fails to produce adequate amounts of the hormone insulin.  Since insulin is necessary for the absorption of glucose, this condition leads to abnormally high concentrations of blood sugar. This in turn causes symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, extreme hunger, and fatigue.  Careful treatment is necessary to prevent the advanced symptoms and complications of diabetes, which can be quite serious.  These include obesity, heart disease, kidney disease, vision and eye problems, painful sores and nerves in the feet and legs, and skin and mouth infections.

Studies have shown that the prevalence of diabetes in Australia is increasing, with one study finding a doubling since gum disease and diabetes1981.  According to a National Health Survey (2007-2008), about 4% of Australians have been diagnosed with diabetes at some time in their lives.  This proportion holds true for all states and territories, and is similar for major cities, regional areas, and remote areas.  The prevalence of diabetes increases with age: another study sampled Australians over 25, and found a 7% rate of the disease.  In both studies, men were somewhat more likely than women to be diagnosed with diabetes.

This has led the authors of the Australian Diabetes, Obesity, and Lifestyle Study to conclude that ‘Australia has a rapidly rising prevalence of diabetes and other categories of abnormal glucose tolerance.  The prevalence of abnormal glucose tolerance in Australia is one of the highest yet reported from a developed nation with a predominantly European background’.

So Where Does Gum Disease Fit In?

This is a true chicken-and-egg question. More and more, evidence shows that people with periodontal disease (that’s the fancy name for ‘gum disease‘) are more likely to be diabetics than people with healthy gums.  But, researchers still aren’t sure which comes first – does having diseased gums increase the chances of developing diabetes, or does having diabetes increase the risk of periodontal disease?  What we do know so far indicates that it may be a feedback loop that works both ways!

In a long-term study conducted at Columbia University in the United States, researchers followed 9,000 people who did not have diabetes.  Over the 20-year study period, those individuals who had periodontal disease were more than twice as likely to develop diabetes as those who did not – even after adjusting for age, smoking, diet, and so on.  An interesting twist however, was that those subjects whose gum disease progressed to the point where they lost all of their teeth appeared to be at a lower risk for diabetes!  While we don’t recommend losing one’s teeth in an attempt to prevent diabetes, it appears that eliminating the toothy source of infection improved long-term risk.  Extending this idea, it seems that good oral hygiene and dental care to prevent infections and gum disease may also lower the risk of contracting diabetes.

One explanation for this is that periodontal disease affects the body’s metabolism in ways that make it more difficult to control blood sugar.  Having serious gum infections is known to increase blood sugar, putting diabetics at risk for complications.  In a 1997 study conducted among Pima Indians of the southwestern US, those subjects who had both diabetes and gum disease showed a noted improvement in blood sugar management once their periodontal infections were treated.

Diabetic With No Gum Disease – Yet

If you’re a diabetic but think your gums are fine – sorry, you’re not off the hook. People with diabetes are known to be at higher risk for developing periodontal disease that non-diabetes. Ongoing research has turned up several possible explanations for this:

  • Diabetics are more susceptible to infections of all kinds, because their immune system does not always function properly.
  • Wound healing doesn’t take place as effectively in diabetics, so wounds to the gums take longer to heal.
  • Diabetes affects the small blood vessels known as capillaries, which can restrict blood flow to various parts of the body, including the gums. This impairs healing and allows infection to spread.
  • Diabetes affects weight control, so diabetics can have a tendency toward obesity. The excess body fat in obese people may produce chemicals that increase inflammation in  the gums.

What It Means For You

In practical terms, it really doesn’t matter whether the chicken came first, or the egg.  If you have gum disease, you need to follow a treatment plan will correct this.  If you are a diabetic, you need to take very good care of your health – including managing your blood sugar levels as instructed by your physician.  Controlling your blood sugar will make preventing and correcting gum disease that much easier.
You need to take very good care of your gums!  Here at Bite Dental, we always schedule the time to do full gum measurement and check at every exam. Follow your recommended exam and cleaning schedule, and practice good self-care with daily brushing and flossing.  Our team can help by giving you instructions on how to properly care for your teeth and gums at home.

Your bonus: a smile that brightens up the day, every day!

diabetes and periodontal disease

Categories Gum Disease
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The Dentist Brisbane – Soft Drinks and Sports Drinks Causing Erosion in Teeth Following Exercise and Dehydration

by Bite Dental
February 14th, 2012

Soft Drinks and Sports Drinks Causing Erosion in Teeth Following Exercise and Dehydration

by The Dentist Brisbane

Sports Drinks: Good for Your Workout, but What About Your Teeth?

Fitness-minded folks are everywhere these days, and the manufacturers of sports drinks are beaming.  Sales of sports drinks topped $320 million in Australia during 2010, and with an annual growth rate of 20% this trend shows no sign of stopping.  Sports drinks are beverages that help athletes and other active folks replenish the fluids their bodies have lost from exercise.  As the climate gets warmer and the workouts become more prolonged (anyone training for a marathon?), sweating grows more intense and so does the urge to slurp down another sweet-tart sports ‘quencher’.
All of this is good news for anyone who owns stock in the sports-drink industry.  But what do dentists think about this trend?  Well, because sports drinks can be nearly as corrosive to the teeth as, say, battery acid, it means more patients needing dental care.  While we’re always happy to fill our office hours, we’d rather do it keeping healthy teeth healthy!  So let’s take another look at those sports and soft drinks, the trouble they might cause for your teeth, and how to prevent it.

What’s in that Hydration Solution

The water an athlete loses by sweating during exercise can be replaced by … water.  Sports drinks go the extra distance waterby adding minerals, salts and carbohydrates (through sugar), to the blend.  Athletes believe these formulas help replace the electrolytes (salts that can conduct an electrical charge within the body’s cells) lost due to heavy sweating.  There are claims that some very active exercisers who drink only water may be risking a state called ‘water intoxication’ by not replacing these minerals and salts.  If they drink only water this dilutes the concentration of electrolytes in their system. Although extremly rare it is a potentially fatal condition and there are reports of it occuring with hikers on the Kokoda track.

The sugar and carbs found in sports drinks add calories and provide fuel for muscles.  This in turn helps prevent fatigue and boosts stamina – important to endurance athletes such as marathon runners and triathlon competitors. People who train with weights find sports drinks helpful in building up their muscles. When these athletes eat protein foods with their post-workout meal, the carbs boost the body’s insulin output and this in turn encourages the muscles to take in more amino acids from the protein.

The Solution is the Culprit

This all great for the body’s strength and fitness – but what about the teeth?  The typical sports drink is ‘isotonic’, meaning it contains sugar and salt in similar concentrations to those found in the human body.  A single, 250-ml serving of isotonic sports drink contains 13-19 grams of sugar.  That’s about 4 or 5 heaping spoonfuls!  Sports drinks also contain citric and phosphoric acids – the same ingredients in soft drinks and colas that help can wear down your teeth.  In this regard, sports drinks and soft drinks are so similar, we might as well call them both ‘acid-sugar drinks’!

Sugars and food acids are just bad for your teeth. Sugars and carbs fuel your body, which is something we all need, but they also feed the bacteria that live in your mouth and cause tooth decay.  These bacteria turn the sugar into waste products, which are acids, and that eats holes into the enamel tooth surface, forming cavities.  Let cavities develop, and sooner or later your dentist is going to have to ‘drill and fill’ to fix it.  If too many cavities develop, or grow to the point where you have ‘more cavity than tooth’, then you end up losing the tooth and looking at restoration alternatives.

Acids in food, especially beverages, wear down the teeth by direct chemical action.  Acids are known for dissolving things, and tooth enamel dissolves quite nicely in an acid bath, thank you.  In one study carried out in the U.S., researchers compared samples of cow’s teeth that had been soaked in water and in various brands of sports drinks.  The teeth were soaked in the liquids for 75-90 minutes – a time period chosen to simulate the effects of sipping on sports drink throughout the day.  When examined after this soaking, the teeth that had been dunked in water remained strong and smooth, showing little or no change, but the teeth that were bathed in sports beverage were covered with small pits – in a close-up photo, the tooth surface looked like the skin of an orange, – and showed a noticeable amount of erosion and softening.  Teeth exposed this kind of acid-induced softening can literally wear down to nubs if left untreated.

Better Hydration Habits for Better Teeth

We get that you probably aren’t going to soak your teeth for 90 minutes at a time in a sports or soft drink, like the sample teeth in this study.  But the way in which sports drinks are commonly consumed adds insult to injury by prolonging your teeth’s exposure to the acids and sugars.  During exercise the mouth also becomes dehydrated and therefore less able to neutralise the acids contained in the drink.  The distinctive flavor of most sports drinks seems to have been designed to increase thirst, not to quench it, so you’ll drink greater quantities for longer periods.  This is helpful for the athlete who needs to push through the last mile of a marathon, but it seems like overkill for those of us whose main exercise is walking from our car to the shops!  We aren’t saying to quit these beverages entirely, but making a few simple changes in the way in which you consume them will help you protect your teeth:

  • Drink sports and soft drinks moderately; avoid sipping on them constantly throughout the day.
  •  If drinking during exercise alternate with sips of water to flush out the acid from your mouth.
  • Drink with a straw whenever possible. This will direct the beverage away from your teeth and reduce your overall exposure to the acids and sugars.
  • Give yourself a break of an hour or so between drinks to let your saliva wash away and neutralize the acids and sugars and help ‘re-strengthen’ your teeth ready for the next attack.
  • Use a soft toothbrush, and avoid brushing your teeth for at least 30 minutes after you finish your drink. Brushing too soon can wear away the softened enamel.

Signs of tooth decay include increased sensitivity to heat, cold, or sugars.  Changes in color and shape of the teeth may also occur.  If you see any of these signs, please make an appointment for a check-up and evaluation.  It’s much easier to correct and restore worn-out teeth when the erosion is detected sooner, rather than later. Here at Bite Dental we want all of our sports enthusiasts to have a winning smile at the finish line!

The Damage Caused to Your Teeth By Sports Drinks

sports drinksThere is no question that sodas and other sweetened drinks can taste better than water.  If you purchase prepared drinks, you may not realize that they contain acids, sugars and other ingredients that will harm your teeth.  While the enamel on your teeth can resist many different chemicals, the ones found in soft drinks and sports drinks can actually erode it to the point where you will experience all kinds of problems.  These include cavities or holes in your teeth, sensitive teeth and even infections if the damage occurs on certain parts of the tooth.

Some Ways That Sports Drinks Damage Your Teeth

Sports drinks can cause damage to your teeth in two basic ways.  First, the sugars found in these beverages will provide plenty of food for plaque and other bacteria that will get under the gums and in between your teeth.  This can lead to gum disease, as well as create a situation where holes may progress until you may need tooth extraction and dental implants.

Many people today do not realize that sports drinks also include a number of acidic preservatives.  These chemicals will remain on your teeth and steadily eat away at the enamel.  Depending on the number of sports drinks that you consume and your lifestyle, you may wind up with a large number of dental problems long before you were expecting them.

What Happens After Exercise?

If you enjoy sporting activities, working out or engage in other robust physical actions, your teeth will suffer even more if you consume sports drinks.  It is important to realize that these activities can all cause you to lose water through sweat.  Since your mouth tends to be a fairly moist environment, you may think that anything which quenches your thirst will also restore the balance to this part of your body.  Unfortunately, when you consume sports drinks, the acid will become more concentrated on your teeth.  If you become dehydrated, it will also take longer for the acids to flush out of your mouth.

Avoiding Dental Decay from Sports and Soft Drinks

Typically, it would be wise to cut back on soft drinks as much as possible or switch to versions that cause less damage. You can however minimise the risk by immediately rinsing your mouth out with water or alternating sports drinks with water during exercise.  It is also important to make sure that your children avoid these beverages as much as possible as their teeth are softer than adults and are therefore more at risk.

If you are concerned about oral health, you should always ensure that routine dental exams include an assessment of the enamel coating each tooth. When you visit Bite Dental Studios, we always provide this service during our dental check ups.  At the very least, if you consume soft drinks, you will have a chance to prevent this habit from having a serious impact on your dental health.

Categories Oral Health
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The Dentist Brisbane – Pregnancy and Oral Health

by Bite Dental
February 7th, 2012

Pregnancy and Oral Health

by The Dentist Brisbane

Healthy Teeth and a Happy Pregnancy

Congratulations – you’re going to have a baby!  This special time in your life calls for special attention to your health and well-being – and that includes your dental health.  Just as the condition of your teeth and gums affects much of your overall health, so too does it affect your well-being during pregnancy.  At Bite Dental, we’re well-versed in the particular needs of the expectant moms we treat, so be sure to let us know as soon as you know the good news!  In fact, if you are thinking about starting a family, we suggest you schedule a dental exam and cleaning before you become pregnant.  This will give us time to identify and correct any problems that might otherwise get in the way of your happy pregnancy.

How Does My Oral Health Affect My Baby?

You may be wondering why all this concern over teeth and gums, at a time when you just want to focus on the bringing the new baby into the world.  However, just as your dental health affects other aspects of your life, it can affect your baby, too.  Studies have shown that pregnant women with periodontal or gum disease have a greater risk of giving birth to  a premature, low birth weight baby.  If the gum disease worsens during pregnancy, the risk increases.  The mechanism for this is not completely understood, but research suggests that the infected, inflamed gums spur the body to produce biological fluids that trigger labor.  For these reasons, we recommend working with your dentist to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy.

Can Being Pregnant Make My Dental Problems Worse?

There are several ways in which pregnancy can influence your dental health – and one big way in which it won’t!  You’ve probably heard the old saying that being pregnant causes calcium loss to your teeth.  Nope, not going to happen.  Your diet is what provides the calcium needed for your baby’s healthy development, not your teeth.  However, if your dietary calcium is inadequate, the needs of your baby are met by taking calcium from your bones.  It’s important to supply your meals with plenty of calcium-rich foods, or take a supplement if your doctor recommends it.

Another way that pregnancy can influence your oral health is by giving you the munchies.  The urge to snack between meals is common to many pregnant women.  That is normal, and it’s important to resist grabbing those carb-laden goodies that seem so satisfying right now.  The carbs and sugars often found in snack food provide a nice meal for the tooth decay-causing bacteria that live in your mouth.  Instead of a cookie, why not reach for some fresh fruit and yogurt for your snack?  You’ll get plenty of vitamins, calcium, and protein – all of which will help your baby develop in a healthful way, with strong teeth, too!
Pregnancy hormones can cause trouble with your gums.  The elevated levels of progesterone that go with pregnancy seem to increase the way the gums react to the plaque that builds up on your teeth due to bacterial action.  This can result in a condition called pregnancy gingivitis, in which the gums become red and inflamed, and may even bleed. Pay special attention to keeping your teeth clean at this time, particularly near the gum line.  This will reduce, and may even prevent, the discomfort of pregnancy gingivitis.
There’s also a condition with the unappealing name of ‘pregnancy tumors’.  These lumps on the gums result from an overgrowth of gum tissue.  They typically appear during the second trimester, and show up as red, raw growths that bleed easily.  They usually resolve after the baby is born.  It’s believed that pregnancy tumors are another hormone-triggered reaction to plaque that builds up between the teeth.  If you experience these lumps, consult with your dentist.

I Need Dental Work – Will it Hurt my Baby?

Schedule your check-ups and other dental work, to the extent possible, during the fourth to sixth month of your pregnancy.  Experience has shown this to be an ideal window  – not so early that it might impact your baby’s development, and not so late that you’ll have to endure the discomfort of lengthy sitting in a dentist’s chair!
This of course is the ideal.  In the real world, things happen and sometimes there is no choice but to see your dentist to treat an emergency.  Be sure to inform your dentist of the pregnancy when your make the appointment.  Be sure to discuss your medical history, including any prior pregnancies or miscarriages, with your dentist.  Your dentist may wish to consult with the doctor who is supervising your pregnancy.  If you have any special concerns, you might want to consult with them as well.
The biggest concerns for dentistry during pregnancy are use of x-rays, anesthesia, and pain medication.
Sometimes situations can’t wait until after birth, especially with dental infections that pose a risk to the developing baby. If we can avoid it we will, but with proper shielding using both a leaded apron and a leaded thyroid collar, you and your baby can be protected from the low-level radiation used in dental x-rays.  If anesthesia and pain meds are needed, your dentist will take your pregnancy into consideration when prescribing or administering these.  If you’ve been given a prescription for pain medication to take at home be sure to follow the dosage and don’t exceed it.   Anti-inflammatories to relieve tooth ache such as neurofen or advil can’t be taken at all.

The need for good oral care never goes away.  While you are pregnant, it’s important to eat foods that are good for your teeth as well as for your baby-to-be.  Keep up with your good habits of daily brushing and flossing.  At Bite Dental, we are happy to provide you with instructions for home care during this special time, and we’ll gladly answer any questions you may have.  Working together, we can assure that you’ll have a beautiful smile to go with your joy over the new arrival!

Get a Dental Exam if you are planning to get Pregnant

Starting a family can be a wonderful experience and the last thing you want to worry about is dental health!  However, pregnancy does bring its fair share of hormonal trouble that can cause the gums to bleed and become inflamed.  Spongy and soft gums are prone to plaque and infection so be sure to maintain good oral health during pregnancy.

Concerns associated with dental treatment during pregnancy

Dentists will normally not recommend dental care treatment while you are pregnant, unless it is an emergency dental procedure such as a tooth extraction or root canal treatment.  Here are a few points to note:

  • Cavity fillings and crowns can be done safely however in the third trimester you may find it difficult to lie on your back for a long time.
  •  Elective procedures such as teeth whitening can be delayed until your baby is born as these are not emergency dental treatments.
  • During treatment the amount of anesthesia or medication administered needs to be monitored carefully as it can affect the developing baby. Further, if you experience excess discomfort, your baby is also stressed.
  • Normally during the first and third trimester x-rays are avoided as baby’s organ development can be hampered. Small dental X-rays are possible with proper shielding with lead aprons but its best to be safe rather than sorry.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications to control dental pain cannot be taken.

Pro-active steps you can take to ensure good oral health

While there are concerns relating to dental care treatments during pregnancy, the good news is that there are several steps you can take to maintain oral health.  Firstly, plan ahead and get regular exams done prior to becoming pregnant. dental hygienistThis will ensure that you don’t have any serious dental problems that you need to treat while you are pregnant. Remember to schedule teeth cleaning appointments with your dental hygienist so your teeth remain healthy and infection-free.  There are studies that suggest that gum disease can lead to low birth weight babies, premature birth and other related complications. Therefore, your safest bet would be to get a dental exam to rule out any underlying problem.

Keep your dentist informed of your situation

Once you find out about your pregnancy, inform us at Bite Dental so we can give you dental hygiene advice as you progress along.  Your dental hygienist can offer tips on the best toothpastes and tooth brushes in the market.  Further, if you do have a dental problem that requires treatment we can suggest the best course of action for both you and your baby.  While you are pregnant you can continue your regular dental hygienist appointments and check ups as it will help you nip any problems in the bud before they escalate to a serious condition.
At Bite Dental Studios, we understand that this is an amazing and exciting time in your life. This is why we take special care to ensure that both you and your baby remain safe and healthy during any dental treatment.  Contact the dentist Brisbane if you are planning to start a family so we can give you a complete dental exam.

 

Categories Oral Health
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The Dentist Brisbane – Some Things to Know About Teeth Whitening

by Bite Dental
February 2nd, 2012

Some Things to Know About Teeth Whitening

by The Dentist Brisbane

Even if you don’t smoke, you may find that your teeth become yellow or discolored over the years.  Since white, shiny teeth are often associated with a youthful, pleasing appearance, you may find that you will want to take advantage of teeth whitening services.  Contrary to popular belief, you will not need to undergo expensive laser procedures in order to achieve you goal.  In fact, if you visit you local Dentist Brisbane, Bite Dental Studios, you can easily select from a range of tooth whitening options.

What is Teeth Whitening?

Basically teeth whitening works in a way similar to bleaching clothes, it washes out stains and colors!  Hydrogen peroxide is placed on your teeth that will bleach out the stains and let your natural tooth color shine through.  Today, tooth bleaching, or teeth whitening is one of the most popular types of cosmetic dentistry.

Unfortunately, the bleaching effect is not ‘permanent’ as stains will recur with time, often over a 5-10 year period.  Therefore, you may need to undergo the process again if you want to have perfectly white teeth.  Many people choose to undergo this procedure for the following reasons:

  • Planning a major life change such as getting married or starting a new job.
  • Applying for a job position where appearance will be a critical factor.
  • Giving a public speech or taking part in a high profile activity.
  • Dealing with the public on a regular basis

Teeth Whitening Methods

Today, there are three basic ways to get whiter teeth.  First, you can make use of the veneers that are permanently bonded to the surface of your teeth, this involves cutting your tooth, but we can change the shape and colour of your teeth in any way you want.

Second, a dentist can provide you with a custom made and spaced tray that can be used to bleach your teeth

Third, you can opt for laser whitening methods.  Even though this method is fairly expensive, the bleaching effect will not last any longer than what you would get from using custom trays and it doesn’t have the benefit of ‘top-up’ whitening sessions when required.

Advantages of Take Home Trays

The success of any teeth whitening method will rely on the initial bleaching agent.  Over the counter products are just not stong enough to a long lasting result.  However, the difference between laser teeth whitening and take home teeth whitening is not relaly discernable to the eye.

There are still a number of advantages that you will receive when you make use of take home trays from your dentist,  this includes:

  • Cost effective and convenient way to whiten or touch up teeth whenever needed.
  • Less expensive than laser methods.
  • Enhanced bleaching when compared to over the counter trays.
  • Less long term damage to your teeth when compared to veneers.

At Bite Dental, we realize that good oral care is as much about appearance and underlying sound dental health.  We are happy to offer tooth whitening services that will enable you to smile with confidence without costing a fortune.  Why should you have yellow, dull looking teeth when teeth whitening services are available and affordable?

teeth whitening

Categories Teeth Whitening
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The Dentist Brisbne – Lumps Bumps and the Dreaded Oral Cancer Check

by Bite Dental
January 29th, 2012

Lumps Bumps and the Dreaded Oral Cancer Check

by The Dentist Brisbane

What’s Behind That Dreaded Oral Cancer Check?

No one likes to hear the word ‘cancer’ much less think about it. Would it make you feel better to know that a simple, painless exam at your dentist’s office can detect oral cancers at an early stage, when the treatments are relatively easier and survival rates are good? We thought so.

At Bite Dental Studios, we plan our time on every examination visit to do a thorough check for oral cancer. This may not be the most dignified procedure in the world (especially when we grab your tongue with a piece of gauze and yank it around) but it’s simple, safe and can be life-saving.

Who’s at Risk for Oral Cancer?

While we can’t predict whether one person will develop oral cancer and another will not, there are recognized risk factors for this disease. At the top of the list are tobacco (including ‘smokeless’ chewing tobaccos and snuff) and alcohol use. The risk for oral cancer increases with the amount of use. People who use tobacco and drink heavily have the greatest risk. Overall, use of tobacco, alcohol or both accounts for three out of every four oral cancers. In tropical areas of south and southeast Asia, including Australia, the tradition and practice of chewing the areca, or ‘betel’ nut is yet another risk factor.

Exposure to sun can increase risk for cancers on the lip, although this risk can easily reduced by use of sunscreen and wearing a shady hat. Some studies indicate that a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables can increase your oral cancer risk. Research is also going on to determine whether certain infectious agents such as human papillomavirus are implicated in oral cancer.

In Australia, these risk factors add up to approximately 2,500 new cases of oral cancer being identified each year.   The prevalence is higher among men than woman – about 1/100 men versus 1/200 women will be diagnosed with oral cancer at some point in their lives. As with other developing countries in the world, Australia’s incidence of oral cancer has increased in recent years.

Early Signs of Oral Cancer

You may be your own best early warning system for detection of oral cancer. Yes, the regular screening as part of your dental exam is important, but if you notice certain changes in your mouth area, don’t wait to get it checked out. Please contact your dentist or medical doctor for further consultation if you notice any of these symptoms:

•    Any mouth sore or lesion that does not heal within two weeks.
•    Lumps or thickened areas in the cheek.
•    Discolored (red or white) patches in the mouth.
•    Difficulty with chewing, swallowing or moving the tongue.
•    Numbness in your tongue or mouth.
•    Chronic hoarseness, sore throat or a feeling that something in caught in your throat.
•    Swelling in the jaw; denture wearers might notice that the dentures don’t fit or become uncomfortable.
Any of these symptoms, of course, could well be caused by something benign and unrelated to cancer. But since early detection is so crucial to a good outcome with this disease, it’s best to get these symptoms checked out sooner rather than later. That’s also why we are so stuck on checking you thoroughly at your regular examinations.

Now, About That Tongue-Yanking:

oral cancer checkBecause we are used to poking around in people’s mouths, dentists and dental hygienists have a unique advantage in performing screenings for oral cancer. A good oral cancer exam requires a hands-on approach, since the examiner uses both touch and sight to detect the lumps, bumps and sores are early signs of the disease. Here are the typical steps used in an oral cancer screening:

•    First, you’ll need to remove any dentures or partials you may wearing.
•    Next, your screener will visually check your face, neck, lips and mouth for any abnormalities. We are trained to look for even subtle signals, such as slurred speech or an asymmetry in the movements of the mouth.
•    Your screener will use both hands to feel for lumps in the neck and the underside of your jaw.
•    The next step is to look and feel inside the lips and cheek areas.
•    You’ll be asked to stick out your tongue so it can be checked for any discoloration, swelling, sores or other abnormalities.
•    Here comes the tongue-grab! Using a piece of gauze, your screener will pull your tongue out and around, so that the base, sides and underneath can be examined. Yes, we know this feels … weird. You can help yourself by letting your tongue go with the pull, and not fighting it.
•    The roof and floor of your mouth will be scrutinized, along with the back of your throat.
•    Finally, your screener will check for lumps or sensitivity in the floor of your mouth. This is done by putting a gloved finger under your tongue and the other hand beneath your chin, then gently pressing or palpating between their hands.

By now, you’re probably feeling thoroughly poked and prodded, just from reading this. However, this exam takes just 2 minutes or less and can make a big difference to the eventual outcome. Should any cancerous or pre-cancerous areas be detected, a biopsy will likely be recommended. This involves removing a small piece of the suspicious tissue and sending it a laboratory for identification. The aim is to use early detection and treatment to prevent big problems later on. At Bite Dental Studio, we are that vigilant about protecting your health.

Categories Oral Cancer
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The Dentist Brisbane – Tooth Decay in Children

by Bite Dental
January 25th, 2012

Tooth Decay in Children

by The Dentist Brisbane

Don’t Let Your Kid’s Teeth Erode out of Kindness!

From the day the first tooth came in, you’ve been diligent about your child’s dental care. Regular visits to your family dentist for check-ups, daily brushing and flossing, and a healthy diet are all part of your routine. Why, you’ve even cut down on sugary soft drinks and replaced them with healthful fruit juices … oh, wait!

While it’s great that you’re paying attention to the nutritional value of the foods you give to your child, it’s also good to keep in mind that every rose has a thorn. There are trade-offs to be made when considering food and drink for optimal health – which includes the condition of your child’s teeth. Not well-known among parents is the fact that fruit juices contain acids – the same culprits found in soft drinks – that can contribute to a special form of tooth decay known as dental erosion.

Tooth decay is the direct wearing-away or dissolving of tooth enamel that results from being exposed to acid-containing beverages and other foods. In extreme cases of dental erosion, the teeth can be virtually worn down to stumps. Unlike ordinary tooth decay in which bacteria in the mouth produce acids that cause cavities (also known as ‘caries’), the dental erosion we’re discussing here is a direct effect from what we choose to eat and drink. It’s as if, by downing acid-containing drinks, we’ve by-passed the middlemen – the bacteria – and gone directly into the business of wrecking our teeth ourselves!
Health experts are increasingly concerned about the rise in tooth decay among children and teens. It’s been reported that kids as young as four have needed to get their teeth capped because of this enamel loss. It seems that youngsters are even more vulnerable to dental erosion because a) they have less exposure to fluoride, which acts to protect the teeth and b) they do tend to drink a lot of sodas and juice drinks. An estimated one out every 8 teenagers in the UK drinks 22 cans of soda per week! Guess who’s at the greatest risk for dental erosion?

The Worst Offenders

Adding insult to injury, the often-recommended practice of brushing teeth right after meals can make dental erosion Tooth Decay in Childrenworse. That’s because the acid in your drink goes to work immediately. Try sucking on a lemon or sipping a can of cola, then run your tongue over the inside of your teeth. See how ‘sludgy’ it feels? That’s the tooth enamel that’s been softened by the acid in your drink. Notice, too, how quickly it works. Because of this fast-acting nature of the food acids, dentists now recommend that you wait 30 minutes after consuming such foods before brushing your teeth. This gives your saliva a chance to neutralize the acid and reverse the softening.

Now, we’re not saying that all fruit juice is bad! Fruit contains many vitamins and minerals that are essential to good health, so it’s important to include fruit and, yes, fruit juice in your family’s healthy diet. Just be aware that orange juice and other citrus varieties contain citric acid, one of the leading culprits in dental erosion. In fact, it’s the citric acid along with phosphoric acid – not carbonation – in soft drinks that adds soda to the rogue’s gallery of causes for tooth erosion. More pertinent to adults, wine has been implicated in dental erosion since wine’s acidity is comparable to that of orange juice.

You don’t have to toss that newly-purchased container of O.J., however. Understand that it’s the frequency, not the amount, of juice that can make or break a pattern of dental erosion in your kids’ and your teeth. Try applying these common-sense guidelines: Serve fruit juice with meals, not in between. Serve fruit juice diluted with water to reduce the acid content. And don’t get into the habit of using fruit juice in a bottle as ‘comforter’ for a baby or young child. Little ones who spend time sucking on a juice bottle or a sippy cup of juice may fall into as great a risk for dental erosion as those soda-guzzling teens!

What to Look For – Signs of Eroded Teeth

Some early signs of dental erosion can be easy to spot – if you pay attention. How do your teeth feel when exposed to heat (such as drinking hot coffee or tea), cold (drinking iced beverages) or sweets? If you experience pain or sensitivity with these food choices, it may indicate that the tooth enamel has been worn away, exposing the sensitive inner part of the tooth (called ‘dentine’) to the irritant.
When considering your child’s teeth, pay attention to color changes. There are two to look for: translucence and yellowing. The cutting edge of the central teeth (called ‘incisors’) can become translucent with erosion and wear. The yellow color can be seen anywhere that the white enamel has worn thin enough that the yellowish dentin shows through. If you become concerned about erosion on your child’s teeth, or your own, see your dentist for a thorough exam. If erosion is detected, consider developing a treatment plan to address it.

The Best Cure is Prevention

As we discussed above, simple changes in the way you serve fruit juices to your family can go a long way to reduced the risk for tooth erosion. Here are some other ways to add more protection through prevention:

  •  Drink milk or plain water – nature’s natural substances that are good for your teeth! Milk and other high-calcium foods help strengthen your teeth by restoring the mineral content.
  •  Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Reducing the abrasive forces your teeth are subjected to goes a long   way towards keeping them intact.
  • If you (or Junior) absolutely must have fruit juice, sport drinks, or sodas, try drinking these beverages through a straw. That directs the liquid away from the teeth and reduces your exposure. Also, try rinsing your mouth with plain water after drinking to reduce the acid content. Then wait 30 minutes before brushing.

By following the simple steps outlined here, and seeing your dentist for regular check-ups. you can help your family avoid making an unpleasant acquaintance with tooth erosion!

Tooth Erosion in Children is a Very Real Cause for Concern

Those pearly whites that often bring a photograph to life, needs special care and attention to remain in pristine condition. However, amidst helping with homework, fixing meals and shopping, it’s tough to remember about your child’s dental care requirements!
Tooth Decay in ChildrenMost people confuse tooth erosion with tooth decay, which is the progressive loss of tooth enamel as a result of a plaque acid attack. On the other hand, tooth erosion is caused by a direct acid attack by excessive exposure to fizzy drinks and fruit juice. A recent study revealed that more than 93% of parents didn’t think their children could have eroded teeth and those who did, thought that this dental health problem could be reversed. Unfortunately, it can’t. Once your child loses tooth enamel, it’s gone for good!
So what really causes tooth erosion? There are both extrinsic as well as intrinsic sources from which acid originates. Intrinsic sources such as acid reflux or vomiting starts from the stomach and lets the acid rise up into the mouth. Extrinsic sources are acid rich food and drinks such as fruit juice and soft drinks.

Preventative steps that can help

When it comes to oral health, it’s crucial to identify the problem before it gets out of hand. When tooth erosion is spotted in the early stages, you can limit the damage caused. Take your child to the dentist regularly, so they can evaluate whether the erosion is getting worse.
Always remember that milk and water are the safest drinks for your children. Yes, we know they’ll want anything but milk and water! Natural fruit juice contains fruit acids which cause tooth erosion and wear. Once acid is present in the mouth it will eat away at the enamel, so remember to dilute drinks with water to minimase the damage. Most kids like to sip their drinks over a long period of time but this will be harmful to their teeth as it prolongs the acid attack. If they finish up quickly, the teeth are not in contact with the acidic or sugar substance for too long. Don’t leave a baby with a sugary drink in a feeder or bottle for too long nor should your baby go to sleep drinking from a bottle. Allow your child to drink only water after their bedtime brushing ritual. Further, when buying medicines, ask your pharmacist for sugar free liquid medicine formulas.

Tell-tale signs of tooth erosion

While we try and protect our kids from several dangers, we often ignore trouble that could be brewing within their own bodies. In most cases, dental erosion affects the upper front teeth. If your child’s teeth appear short, glassy and have uneven tips, then it’s time to do something about it.  Your child may also complain of sensitive teeth especially when drinking cold or hot beverages. Further, the teeth may appear slightly yellow as the dentine beneath the enamel is darker in colour.
If you suspect that your child has or is heading towards tooth erosion, your safest bet would be to contact our team at Bite Dental Studios. We offer state-of-art dental care solutions in a safe hygienic and friendly environment so your child can continue to dazzle the world with that remarkable smile!

Categories Tooth Decay
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The Dentist Brisbane – Tooth Decay and Gum Disease – Two Highly Contagious Conditions

by Bite Dental
January 19th, 2012

Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

by The Dentist Brisbane

Two Highly Contagious Conditions

When we talk about the work ‘contagious’ most people tend to thing about the ‘flu.  Seldom do we realise tht tooth decay and gum disease can bring on a host of oral health problems not only for us but for those in the family as well.  Let’s take a closer look:

The Dirty Truth About Tooth Decay

To put it simply, if bacteria are present in the mouth, it will eat away at the tooth.  If left untreated this could result in a cavity and cause pain, infection and even tooth loss.  Normally, it is the combination of food and bacteria that causes decay as plaque forms on the gums and the teeth.  When you eat or dring something sweet, these bacteria feed off these sugars and create acids.  After about 20 minutes you’ll have a full blown acid attack on you teeth.  Over time, your tooth enamel breaks down and this is the start of tooth decay and poor oral health.

Normally as parents, we are considered the first line of defence when it comes to our children.  However, unknowingly we can actually pass along tooth decay!  By drinking from the same cup or brushing with the same tooth brush, bacteria can transfer from one person to another.  Often it is mum’s bacteria that are passed to the child and hence if mum has lots of fillings we need to be very vigilant as this can happen with the child.

Tooth decay in children causes pain and fever, it can also disrupt school and education.  Speech and eating habits are also affected along with mum and dads sleep.  Regular examinations can help prevent all of this and often remove the need for expensive dental treatment.

The Dangers of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease which is commonly called gum disease happens when the bone and the tissues that support the teeth get infected.  When there is a build-up of plaque, the bacteria contained inside it produce toxins tht damage and irritate the gums.  Apart from flossing and brushing every day, it is important to visit your dentist for regular teeth cleaning sessions above and below the gum margins.  If you gums bleed, look discoloured, are red or swollen or if you suffer from bad breath, then these are warning signs that you may have gum disease.  Unfortunately untreated gum disease is the most common reason adults lose teeth and end up with dentures or false teeth.

Bite Dental Studios Can Help

At Bite Dental Studios, we can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease by encouraging you to adopt a healthy dental care routine.  Prevention is the first step as it will safeguard your family from dental treatment and unnecessary expenses.  If we suspect that you already have an infection, we will analyze the condition and propose an effective plan because your teeth should last you a lifetime.

Th professionals at our family dental clinic would love to take a closer look at your oral health situation, so we can give you the best medical advice possible.

 

 

 

Categories Gum Disease
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Do I really need to? ...only the ones you want to keep! A toothbrush will only get to 60% of the surface area of your tooth so floss is vital to get to those remaining areas in-between. Don’t believe me? Take a sniff of the floss next time you use it. If left, this bacteria will grow back over your teeth making them furry again by lunchtime. Flossing daily is what’s recommended—however if you read dental journals it is only required every 2-3 days if done effectively. Choose a couple of nights a week and set aside some time before bed. Your teeth and gums will thank you for it and your breath will too!
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