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Important COVID-19 UpdateMore Info

Dear Valued Aardent Dental Centre Patient, It seems that all we hear and talk about these days is COVID-19(Coronavirus). Nevertheless, we want to reassure you that we are taking extra measures in addition to our usual stringent hygiene practices. The health of our patients, staff and anyone who enters the building is of paramount importance to us. We are taking a multitude of precautions as recommended by the appropriate health authorities (and some of our own). These include,

  • Spacing of waiting room chairs by a minimum of 1.5meters.
  • Removal of magazines, newspapers and children’s toys from the waiting room.
  • Offering patients to wait in their cars if they prefer.
  • Insisting that all people who enter the building use hand sanitiser (provided).
  • Asking all people to practice high levels of cough/sneezing hygiene.
  • Requesting that anyone with a temperature/flu like symptoms contact us and postpone their dental appointment.
  • Regularly sanitising building surfaces like doorknobs etc.
  • Requiring patients for some procedures to rinse with 1% hydrogen peroxide solution (known to kill coronavirus in the mouth).
  • Availability of non-contact body temperature devices for patient screening if the situation escalates.

Please rest assured that we are open for business and able to continue our excellent level of treatment for you.

As you will be aware the situation is ever changing as will be our response. We will endeavour to keep you informed along the way.

Kindest regards,

Richard Williams

and the

Aardent Dental Centre Team

5 Stages Of Tooth Decay And How To Prevent It

by | Apr 13, 2021 | Dental Care

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

What Causes Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is a lifestyle disease which results in the deterioration of the minerals which coat the tooth. Initially, areas of discolouration can be found on the tooth. As tooth decay advances, the minerals break down and cavities are formed, which can lead to the loss of the tooth.

Tooth decay can be caused by an imbalance between the bacteria and the saliva in the mouth. We all have bacteria that live in our mouths, and these bacteria rely on a diet of sugar to survive. The sugar in the food that we eat sustain these bacteria. However, bacteria produce waste products in the form of acid. It is this acid which binds with existing bacteria to form plaque, which can dissolve the minerals on our teeth, leading to tooth decay.

Luckily, our saliva works to protect the minerals on our teeth against the plaque. However, sometimes, there is simply too much plaque in the mouth and therefore, too much acid for the saliva to counteract. Therefore, eating too many sugary foods and drinks can lead to tooth decay from plaque build-up. 

5 Stages of Tooth Decay

1. Demineralisation

The enamel which makes up the outer layer of the tooth is made up of minerals. If there is too much plaque build-up, this outer layer starts to deteriorate. This can be seen when white spots appear on the teeth.

2. Decay of Enamel

At this stage, the enamel starts to deteriorate further. Dark spots or even small holes start to form on the teeth.

3. Decay of Dentine

Dentine is a tissue that can be found under the enamel layer. This layer is softer than the outer enamel and therefore, deteriorates faster. Breakdown of the dentine can also lead to tooth sensitivity, as the dentine is close to the tooth’s nerves.

4. Damage of Pulp

The pulp makes up the inner layer of the tooth and contains both blood vessels and nerves. Once the tooth decay reaches the pulp, it can cause painful swelling.

5. Abscesses

When the tooth decay has reached the pulp and the plaque bacteria has entered the core of the tooth, an infection can occur. This results in pus developing at the bottom of the affected tooth, creating an abscess. Abscesses are usually very painful and require immediate treatment.

Tooth Decay Prevention Tips

Firstly, make sure you maintain good oral hygiene, this includes brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day. It is also important to try and reduce the frequency of sugary foods in your diet and have regular check-ups with your dentist.

Dentist in Victoria Park

If you are looking for a Dentist in Victoria Park, our specialist team at Aardent Dental are experts in treating tooth decay. Our dentists have a wealth of experience in cosmetic and general dentistry and we pride ourselves on our personal service.

Book an appointment with us today by calling our practice on 6330 8666.