Avonhead Dental Help Centre
Your oral health is an essential part of your overall well-being, and at Avonhead Dental, we believe that knowledge is the key to a healthier smile. Our Help Centre is designed to provide trusted, easy-to-understand advice on a wide range of dental topics, from preventative care and common dental treatments to specialist procedures like root canals, wisdom tooth removal, and TMD management. Whether you’re looking for tips to maintain healthy gums, information on tooth replacement options, or guidance on managing dental pain, our expert articles are here to help. Explore our latest posts and take control of your dental health today!
Knowledge Hub
Protect Your Teeth on the Field - Why Every Athlete Needs a Mouthguard
Whether you’re on the rugby field, in the boxing ring, or just shooting hoops, one hit to the face can lead to a lifetime of dental issues. Mouthguards are a simple, affordable way to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw during contact or collision sports. At Avonhead Dental, we often see dental injuries that could have been prevented with the right protection. That’s why we strongly recommend a custom-fit mouthguard for any sport where there’s risk of contact. What Is a Mouthguard?A mouthguard is a flexible device that fits over your upper teeth and helps absorb and distribute impact from a blow to the face. It protects your:• Teeth• Gums• Cheeks and lips• Jawbone• Braces or dental work (if present)The New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA) and ACC both recommend the use of mouthguards for players of all contact sports, including rugby, hockey, boxing, martial arts, netball, and basketball. Why You Should Wear a MouthguardHere are just a few reasons:• Prevent broken or knocked-out teeth• Avoid lip and tongue injuries• Reduce the risk of jaw fractures and concussion• Save on costly emergency dental treatment• Protect orthodontic work like braces or implantsA mouthguard is a small investment that can save you thousands in dental repairs. Types of Mouthguards (And Which One to Choose)Not all mouthguards are created equal:1. Custom-Fit Mouthguards (Best Protection)• Made by your dentist• Precisely fitted to your teeth and jaw• Comfortable, secure, and breathable• Recommended for all ages and sports2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards (Store-Bought Option)• Available at pharmacies or sports stores• Moulded at home using hot water• Offers basic protection, but fit and comfort can vary3. Stock Mouthguards (Least Effective)• One-size-fits-all• Can be bulky and uncomfortable• Often fall out or restrict breathing• Not recommended for regular use The Risk of Not Wearing a MouthguardKnocked-out teeth, fractured jaws, deep cuts, we’ve seen it all. Sports injuries are one of the leading causes of dental trauma in children and young adults in New Zealand. The ACC reports that thousands of dental claims are made each year due to sports-related incidents - many of which could have been prevented with a mouthguard.Remember: If a permanent tooth is knocked out, it may never fully recover even if it's replanted. Who Needs a Mouthguard?If you or your child plays any of the following, a mouthguard is a must:• Rugby or League• Hockey or Ice Hockey• Boxing or MMA• Netball• Basketball• Skateboarding or BMX• Martial arts, Karate, Jiu-jitsu• Any activity with falls, collisions, or flying balls Avonhead Dental’s RecommendationWe recommend custom-fitted mouthguards for all regular sports players, especially children, teens, and anyone in a contact sport. They provide superior comfort and protection, meaning you're more likely to wear them every game. Book a fitting before the season starts, and make it part of your gear, just like boots or shin guards.
Read moreProtect Your Teeth on the Field - Why Every Athlete Needs a Mouthguard
Whether you’re on the rugby field, in the boxing ring, or just shooting hoops, one hit to the face can lead to a lifetime of dental issues. Mouthguards are a...
Read morePregnancy and Oral Health – What You Need to Know
Pregnancy is a time of big changes, and your mouth is no exception. Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can affect your gums, teeth, and overall oral health. But the good news is that with the right care, you can avoid most dental issues and keep both you and baby healthy. At Avonhead Dental, we’re here to help you understand what’s normal, what’s not, and how to care for your smile during this important stage of life. Common Oral Health Changes During Pregnancy Here are a few things you might notice: Pregnancy Gingivitis This is the most common dental issue during pregnancy. Thanks to hormone changes, your gums may become more sensitive, red, swollen, or bleed when brushing. This usually starts in the second trimester. What to do: Keep brushing and flossing daily, and visit your dentist if symptoms persist. A professional clean can help reduce inflammation and prevent it from progressing. Increased Risk of Tooth Decay You may be more prone to cavities due to: Changes in eating habits (e.g. more frequent snacking Morning sickness (stomach acid can wear down enamel) Tiredness or nausea making brushing harder What to do: Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste Floss daily Rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash after vomiting, but wait 30 minutes before brushing Snack on healthy, low-sugar foods Pregnancy Tumours (Don’t Worry – They’re Not Cancerous) These are small, red growths on the gums that some people develop in the second trimester. They are caused by a mix of plaque and hormonal changes. What to do: These often go away after birth, but let us know if you notice anything unusual. We’ll check it for you. Is Dental Treatment Safe During Pregnancy? Yes! Preventive care, cleans, and most routine treatments are perfectly safe during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester, which is usually the most comfortable time for appointments. Let us know if you’re pregnant when booking so we can plan accordingly and avoid any X-rays unless absolutely necessary. Our Top Tips for a Healthy Smile During Pregnancy: · Keep brushing and flossing, even if your gums are bleeding · Drink plenty of water, especially after snacking or nausea · Book at least one dental visit during pregnancy · Let us know if you're pregnant so we can tailor your care At Avonhead Dental, We’re Here for You Pregnancy is a busy time, but your smile deserves care too. If you’re unsure about any changes or want a professional clean during your pregnancy, just give us a call. We’ll help make your visits comfortable, safe, and reassuring. Book your appointment today and keep your smile strong for motherhood and beyond.
Read morePregnancy and Oral Health – What You Need to Know
Pregnancy is a time of big changes, and your mouth is no exception. Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can affect your gums, teeth, and overall oral health. But the good news...
Read moreGum Disease – The Sneaky Problem You Might Not Feel
Your gums might be trying to tell you something — are you listening? Gum disease often starts quietly. It doesn’t always hurt, so many people ignore early signs like bleeding when brushing or bad breath. But left untreated, it can become serious and even lead to tooth loss. There Are Two Stages: 1. Gingivitis – Early, mild inflammation 2. Periodontitis – More advanced, can damage the bone holding your teeth Common Causes: · Skipping brushing or flossing · Plaque build-up below the gumline · Smoking (it hides symptoms and worsens healing) · Untreated gingivitis Warning Signs: · Bleeding gums · Swollen, red, or tender gums · Receding gums · Persistent bad breath · Loose teeth in advanced stages How to Prevent It: · Brush and floss daily (don’t skip the gumline!) · See your dentist regularly for professional cleans · Quit smoking – it’s a major risk factor · Don’t ignore bleeding gums – that’s not normal Help From Our Product Range: Look for fluoride toothpastes and chlorhexidine mouth rinses in our Dental Product Range, or chat with our team for advice on what's right for you. If you’re noticing any signs of gum trouble, don’t wait. Book a check-up today - catching it early makes all the difference.
Read moreGum Disease – The Sneaky Problem You Might Not Feel
Your gums might be trying to tell you something — are you listening? Gum disease often starts quietly. It doesn’t always hurt, so many people ignore early signs like bleeding...
Read moreThe Sweet Truth - How Sugar Eats Your Teeth
It’s not just how much sugar you eat - it’s how often Tooth decay starts when plaque bacteria feed on sugar and produce acids. These acids then attack your enamel, leading to cavities and dental erosion. Every sugary snack or sip restarts the acid attack — and the more frequently it happens, the harder it is for your teeth to recover. Common Culprits (Even the “Healthy” Ones) According to the NZDA, drinks are one of the biggest hidden sources of sugar. Check out how much sugar is in a single serving: Fruit juice (400 mL): 9 tsp Soft drink (600 mL): 13 tsp Sports drink (750 mL): 10 tsp Flavoured milk (375 mL): 8 tsp Energy drink (500 mL): 15 tsp Smoothie (350 mL): 9 tsp Water: 0 tsp Even “healthy” drinks can be surprisingly sugary or acidic. What You Can Do: · Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals · Drink water, especially after eating · Rinse your mouth if brushing isn’t possible right after · Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your enamel · See your dentist regularly to check for early decay Tip from Avonhead Dental: Switch to water where you can, and stock up on fluoride toothpaste in our Dental Product Range. 👉 Up next: how acidic drinks (even sugar-free ones) can still damage your teeth.
Read moreThe Sweet Truth - How Sugar Eats Your Teeth
It’s not just how much sugar you eat - it’s how often Tooth decay starts when plaque bacteria feed on sugar and produce acids. These acids then attack your enamel,...
Read moreIs Your Diet Wearing Down Your Enamel?
You might already know sugar causes decay - but did you know acid can erode your teeth too? This process is called dental erosion, and it happens when acids in food and drink wear away the surface of your teeth. Unlike decay, bacteria aren’t involved - it’s direct chemical damage, and it can affect even those with otherwise excellent oral hygiene. Most Erosive Drinks (Based on pH) · Fizzy drinks: pH 2.4–3.2 · Sports drinks: pH 2.8–3.4 · Orange juice: pH 3.7 · Wine: pH 3.7 · Water: pH 7 (neutral) Acid levels under 5.5 can start dissolving tooth enamel. Signs of Erosion: · Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet · Teeth that look dull, yellow or worn · Transparent or thinning edges · Cracks or small dents on the biting surface What to Do: · Limit acidic drinks, especially between meals · Don’t brush straight after acidic drinks – wait 30 minutes · Rinse with water immediately after sipping · Use fluoride toothpaste to help remineralise enamel · Ask your dentist about protective treatments At Avonhead Dental: We can assess your enamel and recommend the right care plan if we spot signs of erosion. Prevention is key especially for teens, athletes, and anyone sipping acidic drinks regularly.
Read moreIs Your Diet Wearing Down Your Enamel?
You might already know sugar causes decay - but did you know acid can erode your teeth too? This process is called dental erosion, and it happens when acids in...
Read moreWhy Waiting Costs More – The Truth About Dental Visits
Delaying dental care doesn’t just hurt your teeth - it hurts your wallet too Many people wait until something feels wrong before seeing the dentist. But by then, what could’ve been a quick, inexpensive fix may have become a more serious (and costly) problem. According to the New Zealand Dental Association, regular check-ups are your best defence against major dental issues. Prevention is easier, faster and far more affordable than cure. Here is an example: A small cavity caught early can be fixed with a filling: Time: 30-40 minutes Cost: From $210 Leave that same cavity untreated and you may need a root canal: Time: Multiple appointments, 1-2 hours or more Cost: Upwards of $900 That’s a big difference! What Happens in a regular check-up? A thorough exam of your teeth, gums, and mouth X-rays (when needed) to spot issues below the surface A professional clean to remove plaque and tartar Personalised advice for your brushing, flossing, and diet A chance to catch problems early — when they’re easiest to treat How Often Should You Visit? At least once a year, or more often if your dentist recommends it. If it’s been a while, don’t worry - we’re here to help. Book your next visit online and stay ahead of any potential problems. 👉 Up next: how much sugar is in your drink?
Read moreWhy Waiting Costs More – The Truth About Dental Visits
Delaying dental care doesn’t just hurt your teeth - it hurts your wallet too Many people wait until something feels wrong before seeing the dentist. But by then, what could’ve...
Read more