Dry socket (also called alveolar osteitis) is a painful condition that can develop after a tooth extraction. In this post, we explain why dry socket happens and talk you through prevention and treatment, as well as how to prepare for tooth extraction. What exactly is dry socket? If you’re due to have a tooth extraction, you […] The post What is dry socket? appeared first on Opal Dental ..read more

Stained teeth are a common issue and can affect your appearance and your confidence too. In this post, we explore the types of staining, reasons for discolouration and how to get rid of stained teeth. You’ll find out about treatments that your dentist can offer to fix staining and improve your smile. Types of staining […] The post Stained teeth — what you need to know appeared first on Opal Dental ..read more

Thinking about improving the appearance of your teeth? If you want to know more, including smile makeover benefits, read our latest post. We’re going to find out all the good things about your smile makeover in NZ and offer essential information on the options available. What is a smile makeover? A smile makeover is a […] The post What are the benefits of a smile makeover? appeared first on Opal Dental ..read more

Crowded teeth occur when there isn’t enough room in the jaw. It’s a common problem and can lead to a number of dental issues. In this article, we’ll explore what causes crowded teeth. We’ll also look at how to fix crowded teeth so you know where to go for help. What causes crowded teeth? There are several reasons for crowded teeth (also called malocclusion): Having extra teeth A difference between the size of the teeth and the jaw Losing baby teeth early on, meaning there is less space in the jaw for permanent teeth Thumb sucking or using a dummy for too long, affecting the development of the ..read more

Dentures may make your mouth sore every now and then. It’s essential to understand the reasons for discomfort, and that’s why we’ve written this post. We’ll also take a look at how to heal mouth sores from dentures to relieve any pain or irritation you may feel. Plus, you can follow our tips on denture care too. New dentures If you’ve just had new dentures fitted, it’s normal for your gums to feel a little sore at first. And if you’ve had teeth extracted, it will take some time for your mouth to heal. Your gums will need to get used to the changes in your mouth. Any irritat ..read more

Even if you keep your regular dental appointments, sometimes an extra visit is needed. Our article covers seven reasons to visit your dentist between check-ups. It highlights the signs that you may need to reach out for an appointment. 1. Pain or swelling in the mouth Any kind of pain or swelling in your teeth, gums or mouth warrants an extra dentist check-up. There could be lots of different reasons for the pain, including tooth decay, gum disease or an ulcer. You should schedule an appointment if you have: Toothache that persists for more than two days Severe toothache Swelling of ..read more

If you’ve ever wondered, ‘What is fluoride, and what does it do?’ this article is a must-read. In it, we’re going to explain what it is and how it’s used. This will help you understand the benefits of fluoride and how it can protect your teeth. At Opal Dental, your local dentist for Te Atatu, we love educating our patients. This post will help you understand why fluoride is important and the role it plays in your oral health. What is fluoride? Fluoride is a mineral that is found naturally in water, soil and plants. It strengthens tooth enamel, the hard outer coating of your teeth, and keeps bo ..read more

Your oral hygiene routine is more than just about keeping your teeth and gums clean. It’s about preventing issues like tartar and further dental problems. In our latest post, we’ll explain what tartar is. You’ll also learn how to stop tartar from forming on your teeth. This action can help reduce your risk of both gum disease and tooth decay. Here at Opal Dental, your local dentist for Te Atatu, we’re committed to helping our patients improve their oral health. Advising how to prevent tartar on your teeth is one of the ways we do this, so read on to know more. What is tarta ..read more

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots topped with crowns. They’re a permanent way to replace missing teeth and can be life-transforming. If you’re wondering how to prepare for dental implants, this article is for you. We’ll explain what the procedure involves and what to do before dental implant surgery. This knowledge will help you feel confident and prepared for a future with dental implants. What exactly are dental implants? A dental implant is a rod made primarily of titanium that is inserted into your jawbone. In time, it fuses with the bone and acts just as a natural tooth root woul ..read more

Dental occlusion refers to the way your teeth fit together. If they don’t align properly, then you may experience problems with your teeth, gums and jaw. We’ve put together this article so you can understand what dental occlusion is and how it can affect your health. We’ll also explain how your dentist can help if you’re suffering from dental occlusion issues. What is dental occlusion? Dental occlusion refers to the alignment of your “bite” or the way the teeth in your upper and lower jaw fit together. If you have a healthy bite, then the teeth in your upper jaw align just over the teeth in yo ..read more