Tongue-Tie

Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue's range of motion.

Signs and symptoms include:

• Difficulty lifting the tongue to the upper teeth or side to side movement of tongue

• Difficulty in sticking out the tongue past the lower front teeth

• A tongue that appears heart shaped when stuck out

Complication:

Tongue tie in baby can affect their oral development which can lead to difficulty in speaking, swallowing or eating.

For example,

Breast-feeding problems: If the baby is unable to move the tongue or keep it in the right position, the baby might chew instead of suck on the nipple. Breast-feeding requires a baby to keep his or her tongue over the lower gum while sucking. This inability of baby to place the tongue in a correct position can cause significant nipple pain and interfere with a baby's ability to get breast milk. Ultimately, poor breast-feeding can lead to inadequate nutrition and failure to thrive.

Speech difficulties: Difficulty in pronouncing Certain sounds — such as "t," "d," "z," "s," "th," "r" and "l." can be caused by tongue- tie.

Poor oral hygiene: For an older child or adult, tongue-tie can make it difficult to sweep food debris from the teeth. This can contribute to tooth decay and inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). Tongue-tie can also lead to the formation of a gap or space between the two bottom front teeth.

Challenges with other oral activities: Tongue-tie can interfere with activities such as licking an ice cream cone, licking the lips, kissing or playing a wind instrument.

See a doctor if:

Your baby has signs of tongue-tie that cause problems, such as having trouble breast-feeding

A speech-language pathologist thinks your child's speech is affected by tongue-tie

Your older child complains of tongue problems that interfere with eating, speaking or reaching the back teeth

You're bothered by your own symptoms of tongue-tie.

Worried you or a loved one has a tongue tie?

Call us now at 02 9558 8988 or email us at info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au to organise a consultation today

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When are dental implants necessary?

Dental implants are necessary when you have missing teeth, but either cannot or do not want to get dentures, bridges or crowns. It is important to replace a lost tooth, as the consequences of removing/losing a tooth and doing nothing can grow into a much larger problem as time goes on.

dental implants

Dental implants have many aesthetic benefits, however, they also play an important role in the overall function of your mouth. Dental implants support a healthy bite, keeping each tooth properly in place while supporting a healthy jawbone and preventing bone deterioration. When a tooth is lost or pulled and not replaced, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate. This happens because what preserves the jawbone in the first place is the pressure and stimulus of chewing.

Dental implants may also feel necessary for the visual aspect. You may feel self-conscious about how your smile looks and feels, and dental implants can help with that. Your self-esteem and self-confidence are important, and being able to eat comfortably (especially at social gatherings), smile and laugh without pain, worry or holding back is important and will have a great impact on your life as a whole.

Where to get dental implants?

We are a family-friendly dental practice located in Hurlstone Park. You can find us, Pain Free Dentist Sydney at shop G1A, New Canterbury Road, Hurlstone Park, NSW 2193. Dr. Lisa Chong has over 30 years of experience in complicated dental procedures and can address all of your holistic dental concerns, to bring back your radiant smile and great confidence.

Call us now on 9558 8988, or reach us at info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au to book a consultation.

Make an Appointment

Anxious Dental Care with Penthrox

Are you an anxious patient?

Did you know at Pain Free Dentist Sydney we have multiple options to help ease the anxiety and pain whilst you are receiving treatment?

Green Whistle (Penthrox)

Penthrox is an inhaled medication (methoxyflurane) used to reduce pain and anxiety during or following a dental procedure. Penthrox provides rapid pain relief however, the pain is not completely eliminated.

Green Whistle (Penthrox)

How is Penthrox administered?

Penthrox is inhaled through a custom-built inhaler and usually takes full effect within 6-10 breaths. After the initial 6-10 breaths, you can inhale continuously or as instructed by our dentist. The side effects below are usually mild and only last a short time.

Penthrox Effects

• Calming

• Soothing

• Feeling of extreme happiness

• Non addictive

• Less responsive to pain

• Numbness or weakness of arms and legs

• Flushing

Looking to get Penthrox for dental work?

Call us now at 02 9558 8988 or email us at info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au to organise a consultation today!

Make an Appointment