It’s normal for children to snore when they are tired isn’t it? The answer to that is actually – NO! Too often we assume snoring to be the social norm for tired people (big and small) however research has shown that snoring may be more detrimental to our health then we know it. Whilst everyone knows what snoring is, it’s also important to know that heavy, audible breathing also falls under the same category as snoring and is just as bad!
Check out this video on Facebook by Today: https://www.facebook.com/iwakeupwithtoday/videos/1789804254387565/
Snoring, or heavy breathing whilst sleeping, is that deep annoying sound that one makes when their airway is blocked. Blocked airway? Yes! That’s right – snoring is due to you or your child not being to breathe properly when sleeping. The simple fact is that if you don’t breathe well when sleeping – you or your child may not be getting a proper night’s rest. We all know how important sleep is! It’s imperative for health and development and this is even more important in our children.
Children can suffer from numerous sleep conditions that severely affect their development. The problems caused by the sleep issues can manifest in permanent problems later on in adulthood that are very difficult/ impossible to correct. This is why problems are best diagnosed and treated when young.
We recommend booking in your children with us so that we can do a Dental & Airway assessment. From there, we may recommend a few options:
The first port of call is to consult a paediatric ENT specialist (ear, nose and throat specialist) or an Oral Myology clinic. ENT experts will check for obstructions in your child’s airway and ears whilst Oral Myology clinics will check your child’s breathing and muscles. Examination may include a scope (flexible camera through the nose), Imaging (e.g x-rays/CT scans), Physical examinations, and sleep studies.
Depending on what is wrong, treatment options include Surgery (best done when young so they recover well), muscle exercises, breathing exercises or medications such as Nasonex.
Even after treatment, the child usually has to relearn how to breathe properly through the nose. This is why it is better to treat early because a habit is easier to unlearn when you are younger.
Early orthodontics is basically doing orthodontic work while a child still has a mixture of primary (baby) and permanent teeth. This typically occurs between the ages of 7 to 12 although this can vary depending on the dental development stage of the child.
The advantage of early treatment is that the early diagnosis and treatment of your child may help an orthodontic problem earlier whilst often minimizing more serious orthodontic problems from occurring. By lessening these problems early, later orthodontic treatment may be shorter and easier (or not required in some cases).
Partial Braces are braces worn on the adult teeth, while your child still has primary teeth. These normally only involve the front 4 incisors and the first adult molar. This may or may not be used in conjunction with springs which help with some expansion. These are typically used to help resolve crowding in younger children.
Clear Aligners such as Invisalign First offer the same type of treatment that Partial braces do with the added benefit of removable Clear Aligners
Jaw expansion is typically done with maxillary expanders (more information here). These can either be removable or fixed. Maxillary expanders help to widen the upper jaw by pushing the teeth and bone outwards, and typically involve turning a super screw. Alternative expansion devices include the Invisalign Palatal Expander.
Mandibular advancement devices (functional appliances) include the MARA appliance, Herbst appliance, Twin-Block appliance or Clear Aligners (Angel Aligner A6 & the Invisalign Mandibular Advancement System). Again, these can be removable or fixed. These appliances help to position the lower jaw in a more forward position, thereby encouraging faster growth of the lower jaw into a more favourable position (eliminating an overjet).
Early treatment typically ranges from 6 to 18 months. This varies depending on the complexity of treatment.
Orthodontics is not just simply about straightening teeth. Here at Dental at Keys we aim to create a beautiful full smiles. We pay particular attention to the curvature, width and height of the smile. All of these aspects involve a lot more work than just straight teeth. The last thing we want for you is to have a flat straight smile (ie. Denture smile).
We also pay great attention to the profile of your face. Not only should your smile be full, but your facial profile should match it is as well. There is no point in extracting teeth in a patient who already has a sunken profile. Similarly, patients with lips that are too full should not have this worsen. This is why we say we treat the face, and not just the teeth.
An orthodontic functional appliance is either a removable plate or a fixed appliance that aims to correct the relationship between the upper and lower jaws. Often a patient will have their lower or upper jaws set too far forward or too far back. The aim of a functional appliance is ‘move’ the desired jaw back/forward into its correct position, thus ending with a more stable upper and lower jaw relationship. Occasionally we combine functional orthodontic therapy with orthopaedic expansion.
There are two main types of Functional Appliance categories – Fixed (glued-in) or removable.
Removable appliances include the classic Twin Block appliance and Clear Aligners (Angel Aligner A6 Mandibular Advancement Therapy).
*Please note that we do NOT offer Fixed Functional Therapy.
1) If a fixed appliance is made (eg. Herbst or Forsus appliance) – this is will glued to your back molars. It may be activate once every few weeks to push the jaw forward as required.
2) If the appliance is a removable plate – it is as simple as placing the appliance in your mouth and clicking it into place. Please note that this appliance needs to be worn all day and night (and during meals). It should only be removed for cleaning. Failure to wear the appliance during the require times will result in slower treatment.
Most functional appliances are designed to speed up the growth of the lower jaw. This is done by forcing the lower jaw to be positioned further forward into the proper relationship, allowing the jaw joint to grow and remodel into this new position. Severe cases may need the lower jaw to be position further forward slowly over a period of time. Once the correct relationship has been established, this position is held for a few months to allow the muscles to adapt to this new position (up to 6 months).
The appliance will be worn at all times for a period of approximately 6 – 12 months. This period may vary depending on your tailored treatment plan, and progression of treatment
once the functional appliance has been fitted. The appliance only works when it is worn, and if removed – treatment progress may be lost. Wearing a removable appliance whilst eating results in the movement of your jaw up to 13x faster!
After treatment with a functional appliance, it is very likely that you will need to have further treatment such as braces to straighten your teeth. Treatment such as braces may also commence whilst you are still wearing your functional appliance. Each case is different, and your dentist will inform you of your tailored treatment plan.
Orthodontics is not just simply about straightening teeth. Here at Dental at Keys we aim to create a beautiful full smiles. We pay particular attention to the curvature, width and height of the smile. All of these aspects involve a lot more work than just straight teeth. The last thing we want for you is to have a flat straight smile (ie. Denture smile).
We also pay great attention to the profile of your face. Not only should your smile be full, but your facial profile should match it is as well. There is no point in extracting teeth in a patient who already has a sunken profile. Similarly, patients with lips that are too full should not have this worsen. This is why we say we treat the face, and not just the teeth.
Taking your child to the dentist can be a bit stressful—for both parents and kids. However, with the right approach, you can make your child’s dental visits a positive experience and set the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. To help you out, here are our top five tips for taking kids to the dentist:
Timing is everything, especially when it comes to kids. Choose a time of day when your child is most comfortable, well-rested, and cooperative. If your child is happiest and most alert in the morning, that’s the best time to schedule their appointment. If they’re tired or sleepy, they might be grumpy or uncooperative, making the experience more challenging for everyone. A well-timed appointment sets the tone for a positive visit!
It might be tempting to promise a reward or treat to encourage your child to visit the dentist, but this can send the wrong message. Offering a reward might make them think that going to the dentist is something difficult or scary that requires a bribe to endure. Instead, keep the focus on how visiting the dentist is a normal part of staying healthy. Reinforcing that dental check-ups are a routine activity helps children view the experience more positively, without attaching fear or anxiety to it.
It’s completely normal for kids to feel nervous or shy during their first dental visit. They may even cry, but that’s okay! The first appointment is mostly about familiarizing them with the environment, the dentist, and the equipment. The bright lights, whirring sounds, and different smells are all new, so it’s natural for them to feel unsure. By the end of the visit, many children are already more comfortable, and by the second visit, they’re often running into the chair with excitement. Patience and positivity go a long way in helping your child feel at ease.
Before their appointment, prepare your child by talking to them about the dentist in a simple and positive way. Avoid going into too much detail to prevent unnecessary worry. There are excellent children’s books featuring popular characters like Peppa Pig or Dora the Explorer that show what a dentist visit is like, making it seem fun and non-threatening. These stories help familiarize children with the idea of visiting the dentist in a way that’s relatable and engaging. Just remember to keep the conversation light and upbeat to avoid sparking any anxiety.
When it comes to explaining dental procedures or treatments, leave it to the experts! Dentists who specialize in treating children know exactly how to explain things in a way that won’t frighten or overwhelm them. For instance, instead of saying “injection,” which may instantly trigger fear, we use playful terms like “sleepy juice” to make it sound less intimidating. This approach not only keeps the child calm but also builds trust between the dentist and the child. Sometimes, this technique works for adults too! 😄
Taking your child to the dentist doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By scheduling their appointment at the right time, keeping conversations positive, and allowing the dentist to guide them through the process, you can help your child feel more comfortable and even excited about going to the dentist. With time, regular visits will become a natural part of their routine, helping to build a strong foundation for lifelong oral health.
A little patience, preparation, and positivity can make all the difference!
Book with your local Family Dentist here in Keysborough now!
#KidsDentalCare #HealthySmiles #FirstDentalVisit #PositiveParenting #HappyTeeth #DentalHealthForKids
While regular brushing and flossing at home are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene, they can only do so much. Even with the most diligent home care routine, plaque and tartar can still accumulate in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. That’s where professional dental cleans come in—providing a deeper clean and offering numerous benefits for your oral and overall health.
Let’s explore why scheduling regular professional dental cleans is one of the best things you can do for your smile.
One of the primary benefits of professional dental cleans is the prevention of gum disease. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, naturally forms on your teeth, and when not properly removed, it hardens into tartar. Tartar build-up can irritate the gums and lead to inflammation—an early stage of gum disease known as gingivitis.
During a professional clean, your dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar from areas that are difficult to reach with brushing and flossing alone. By keeping your gums healthy, you reduce the risk of developing periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
Even if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing, some areas of your mouth may still harbour plaque that you can’t easily reach. Plaque build-up, especially around the gumline and between teeth, can lead to tooth decay and cavities.
Professional dental cleanings target these problem areas, removing the plaque and tartar that can erode tooth enamel and cause decay. By keeping your teeth free from plaque build-up, professional cleans help to prevent cavities and maintain a healthier smile.
Bad breath (halitosis) is often caused by poor oral hygiene, and plaque build-up plays a significant role. When plaque isn’t properly removed, it can trap food particles and bacteria in your mouth, leading to unpleasant odours.
Professional cleanings help eliminate plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums, resulting in fresher breath. By maintaining regular dental cleans, you reduce the build-up of bacteria that contribute to bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling clean and refreshed.
Over time, food, drinks, and tobacco can stain your teeth, leading to a dull or discoloured smile. While at-home brushing can remove some surface stains, professional cleanings provide a more thorough stain removal. The scaling and polishing performed during a dental clean help to remove stubborn stains, leaving your teeth looking brighter and more polished.
While dental cleans are not the same as whitening treatments, they do help maintain the natural whiteness of your teeth by removing surface discolouration.
Regular dental cleanings also include a thorough examination of your mouth, allowing your dentist or hygienist to detect potential problems early. Whether it’s a cavity, gum disease, or early signs of oral cancer, catching these issues in their early stages can prevent them from progressing into more serious and costly problems.
By attending regular cleanings, you give your dental team the opportunity to monitor your oral health and address concerns before they escalate.
Your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to a range of health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Gum disease, in particular, has been linked to increased risks of cardiovascular disease and complications with diabetes.
By maintaining good oral health through regular professional cleans, you reduce inflammation in your gums, which can help lower your risk for these systemic health issues. A clean, healthy mouth is an essential part of a healthy body.
While it might seem tempting to skip a cleaning or delay your dental visit, doing so can lead to costly treatments down the road. Instead of needing a regular clean, you might need additional appointments to for tooth cleaning due to the sheer amount of build-up on your teeth. Regular professional cleans help prevent the development of more serious dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss, which require expensive treatments like fillings, root canals, or implants.
Investing in routine cleanings is a proactive way to keep your oral health in check and avoid the need for more complex and costly dental procedures.
Professional dental cleans are an essential part of maintaining your oral health. They prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath while leaving your teeth brighter and healthier. By scheduling regular cleans, you’re not only investing in your smile but also in your overall health and well-being.
If it’s been more than six months since your last clean, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment. Your smile will thank you!
#DentalClean #HealthyTeeth #ProfessionalCleanings #OralHealth #GumDiseasePrevention #BrightSmile #DentalCareTips #CavityPrevention #FresherBreath #RoutineCleanings
Most adults would have at least 1 amalgam filling in their lifetime. It isn’t as common nowadays so young kids are unlikely to have any in their mouth. We don’t tend to do many amalgam fillings mainly due to the fact that most people don’t like the look of it, which is fair enough!
They are the ‘silver’ or ‘grey’ coloured filling material in your teeth. It is a made of an alloy of metals including mercury. It is perfectly safe to have in your mouth and rest assured there are no medical concerns with having it as a filling
Not all amalgam fillings need to be replaced.
Although it is not very common, it is still done in select cases.
The main issue that we have found with amalgam fillings is when they have a problem, it is usually a big problem relating to cracks/decay. Rest assured that otherwise amalgam fillings are still safe to be done and still safe to have in your mouth. There are a lot of myths surrounding this topic.
If you need to have your amalgam filling removed, we recommend removal under Dental Rubber Dam to prevent you from swallowing the amalgam particles. At Dental at Keys, we routinely use Dental Dams for majority of our fillings as it provides superior results. Our suction system is also equipped with an Amalgam Hydrocyclone which allows the collection of Amalgam particles BEFORE it reaches the waste water system. We use Ecocycle to help with the safe disposal of our amalgam particles.
If you are unsure, speak to your dental professional and they can discuss it with you as well. Feel free to contact us by giving us a call or book online and we can check your old fillings for you.
When it comes to dental health, putting off treatment can seem tempting—especially if you’re not experiencing pain or discomfort. However, delaying necessary dental care can lead to serious consequences for your oral and overall health. Whether it’s a routine cleaning, a filling, or more extensive work like a crown or root canal, postponing treatment only allows problems to worsen over time.
Here’s why you should always prioritise dental care and avoid delaying dental treatment.
You should not delay dental treatment as it may allow minor issues to turn into major, costly problems. A small cavity that could be easily treated with a filling can escalate into a serious tooth infection, requiring a root canal or even an extraction. Gum inflammation left untreated can develop into full-blown periodontal disease, leading to tooth loss and the need for more extensive procedures like gum surgery.
By addressing dental problems early, you not only minimise discomfort but also save money in the long run by avoiding more complex, expensive treatments.
Even if you’re not currently experiencing any discomfort, dental problems can develop beneath the surface. Cavities, gum disease, and infections often progress without noticeable symptoms until they reach an advanced stage. When pain does occur, it can come on suddenly and be severe, making emergency dental care necessary. Preventive check-ups and timely treatment help you avoid these painful surprises and keep your mouth healthy.
Delaying treatment for gum disease or tooth decay significantly increases your risk of tooth loss. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and untreated infections can damage both the tooth and surrounding bone. Once a tooth is lost, replacement options like implants, bridges, or dentures are much more invasive and expensive than the preventive care that could have saved the tooth in the first place.
Your oral health is directly linked to your overall health, and delaying dental treatment can have wider implications. Gum disease, for example, has been linked to serious systemic health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. Infections in the mouth can also spread to other parts of the body, leading to more severe conditions if not treated in a timely manner.
By staying on top of your dental care, you not only protect your teeth and gums but also reduce your risk for these broader health complications.
Delaying dental treatment can also impact the appearance of your smile. Dental decay, broken or chipped teeth, and gum disease can all affect the aesthetic of your teeth. If left untreated, what starts as a minor issue can lead to more extensive cosmetic concerns that require more invasive (and expensive) treatments like veneers, crowns, or full mouth reconstruction. Timely dental care helps you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
It’s common for people to delay dental treatment due to fear or anxiety, but avoiding the dentist only increases the likelihood of needing more invasive and uncomfortable procedures later. Most dental problems worsen over time, leading to longer, more complex treatments that can reinforce dental anxiety. By addressing issues early, treatments are usually quicker, less painful, and more manageable.
Dentists today use advanced technology and techniques to make treatments as comfortable as possible. Don’t let fear hold you back from taking care of your oral health.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are critical in identifying potential issues before they escalate. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar build-up that you can’t address with brushing and flossing alone. Routine exams allow your dentist to catch cavities, gum disease, or other concerns early, reducing the need for more extensive treatment down the road.
Delaying dental treatment might seem harmless at first, but the long-term effects can be serious for your oral and overall health. From preventing pain and tooth loss to saving money on future treatments, addressing dental issues early is always the best option. If it’s been a while since your last visit, or if you’re dealing with a dental concern, now is the time to make an appointment and take control of your dental health.
#DontDelayDentalCare #HealthyTeeth #PreventiveDentalCare #OralHealthMatters #DentalCare #GumDiseasePrevention #ToothDecay #DentistVisit #TakeCareOfYourSmile #HealthySmile
The Child Dental Benefits Scheme covers part or the full cost of some basic dental services for children if you get certain payments from Medicare.
This scheme is bulk-billed at our practice (provided you are eligible) and is processed via our Hicaps terminals.
Please note, if you have gone over your limit, you may be required to pay a gap payment to the clinic.
Just a gentle reminder to all our patients to check with us whether your kids are eligible for the Medicare Scheme.
To get this your child must be all of the following:
All we need is their Medicare Card number, Reference and Name and we can check this online for you!
If they are eligible, they will have up to $1,132 of FREE DENTAL (2025) to use over a 2 year period. Do not miss this chance to use it these holidays!
Give us a CALL or EMAIL us to find out more. You can also contact us here.
Has it been some time since you last changed your toothbrush? If you can’t remember, it’s probably time to get a new toothbrush (or head if you are using an electric toothbrush)! Using an old, worn-out toothbrush can do more harm than good to your dental health. Don’t worry – many of us are guilty of doing the same! In this blog, we will explain why replacing your toothbrush regularly is so important and how often you should do it.
Here’s an online article evaluating the number of microorganisms that can grow on your toothbrush! https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4535112/
Your toothbrush is your first line of defence against plaque, bacteria, and gum disease. Over time, the bristles of your toothbrush wear down, making them less effective at cleaning your teeth and removing debris. But that’s not all—your toothbrush can also become a breeding ground for bacteria, especially when left in a moist environment like the bathroom.
Here are a few key reasons to replace your toothbrush regularly:
The general recommendation from dentists and the American Dental Association (ADA) is to replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. However, there are a few circumstances where you may need to change it sooner:
When replacing your toothbrush, make sure to choose one that fits your needs. Whether it’s manual or electric, the most important factor is the bristles. Opt for soft-bristled toothbrushes, as they are gentle on your gums and effective at cleaning your teeth without causing damage. Hard-bristled brushes can be too abrasive, leading to gum irritation and enamel wear. If you already have areas of toothbrush abrasion (gum wear) – consider using a VERY soft bristle brush.
To maximize the lifespan of your toothbrush and keep it as hygienic as possible, follow these simple tips:
Changing your toothbrush regularly is a simple step that goes a long way in maintaining good oral hygiene. By swapping out your old brush for a new one every few months, you ensure that your teeth and gums are getting the care they deserve.
So, if it’s been a while since your last toothbrush replacement, take this as your reminder to freshen up your brushing routine. Your smile will thank you!
#OralHealth #ChangeYourToothbrush #DentalCareTips #HealthyTeeth #FreshSmile #DentalHygiene #ReplaceYourToothbrush #HealthyGums #ToothbrushCare
Hard vs Soft Toothbrushes: Which One is Right for You?
Choosing the right toothbrush can feel like a small decision, but it can make a significant difference in your oral health. One of the most common questions people have is whether they should use a hard or soft toothbrush. With so many options available, it’s important to understand the differences between the two and how they affect your teeth and gums.
In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between hard and soft toothbrushes, the pros and cons of each, and which one is best for maintaining a healthy, bright smile.
Soft-bristled toothbrushes are by far the most commonly recommended by dentists. They’re designed to be gentle on your teeth and gums while still being effective at removing plaque and debris. Let’s look at why soft toothbrushes are the go-to choice for most people.
Hard-bristled toothbrushes are less common, but some people prefer them because they believe they offer a deeper clean. While hard toothbrushes can be effective at removing plaque, they come with risks, especially if not used carefully.
For the majority of people, soft-bristled toothbrushes are the safest and most effective choice for daily use. They’re gentle enough to protect your gums and enamel while still removing plaque and maintaining good oral hygiene.
If you feel like your soft toothbrush isn’t giving you a deep enough clean, the issue might not be the toothbrush itself but how you’re using it. Brushing technique is key—gentle, circular motions and brushing for two minutes twice a day will keep your teeth clean without causing damage.
Beyond the hardness of the bristles, there are a few other things to keep in mind when selecting the right toothbrush for you:
When it comes to maintaining your oral health, soft-bristled toothbrushes are almost always the best choice. They’re gentle on your gums and enamel, effective at removing plaque, and suitable for everyone, from kids to adults. Hard toothbrushes may have their place in specific situations, but for daily use, soft is the way to go.
If you’re unsure which toothbrush is right for you, ask your dentist for personalized recommendations based on your unique dental needs. Whatever you choose, remember that good brushing technique and regular dental check-ups are just as important as the type of toothbrush you use.
#ToothbrushTips #SoftVsHardToothbrush #OralHygiene #HealthyTeeth #DentalCare #ToothbrushGuide #GumHealth #SensitiveTeethCare #BrushingTips #SoftToothbrushBenefits
