Why Are They Called Wisdom Teeth? How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Wisdom Tooth in Australia?

September 16, 2024

Burton

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Wisdom teeth are a common topic when it comes to dental health, especially for young adults. You’ve likely heard someone complain about their wisdom teeth and the need to have them removed. But why are these teeth called “wisdom teeth,” and how much does it cost to remove one in Australia? Let’s dive into the history and terminology of wisdom teeth and examine the financial aspects of having them removed.

Why Are They Called Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in the human mouth, typically emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. The name “wisdom teeth” comes from the notion that these teeth appear at an age when a person is said to be entering adulthood, gaining wisdom and maturity. The concept dates back to ancient times, with the Latin term dentes sapientiae, which translates to “teeth of wisdom,” reflecting this stage of life.

Panoramic X-ray of the jaw. X-ray of the teeth of a 12-year-old girl.

Development of Wisdom Teeth

Humans develop two sets of molars in early childhood, but the third molars, or wisdom teeth, don’t make their appearance until later. In prehistoric times, our ancestors needed these extra teeth to help them chew coarse, hard foods like roots, nuts, and raw meat. Over the course of evolution, humans began cooking food and using utensils, which made these extra molars less essential. Our jaws also became smaller due to changes in diet and lifestyle. As a result, many people now have insufficient space in their mouths to accommodate wisdom teeth, often leading to problems.

Problems Associated With Wisdom Teeth

While not everyone has issues with their wisdom teeth, many people experience complications because these teeth can become impacted or grow misaligned. Common issues include:

- Impaction: The wisdom tooth is trapped beneath the gum or in the jawbone, which can cause swelling, pain, and even infection.

- Crowding: Since the mouth often doesn’t have enough room for wisdom teeth, their eruption can push against other teeth, causing crowding or misalignment.

- Partial Eruption: In some cases, wisdom teeth only partially erupt through the gums, making them difficult to clean and prone to infection or decay.

- Cysts: Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to the development of cysts, which can damage surrounding bone and tissue.

Because of these complications, dentists and oral surgeons often recommend removing wisdom teeth, even if they aren’t currently causing problems, as a preventive measure.

How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Wisdom Tooth in Australia?

The cost of wisdom tooth extraction in Australia can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the extraction, the type of anaesthesia used, and the geographic location of the dental clinic. Generally, there are two types of extractions: simple and surgical.

1. Simple Extraction

A simple extraction is when the tooth has fully erupted, and the dentist can easily remove it using forceps and a local anaesthetic. This type of procedure is relatively straightforward and inexpensive.

- Cost: A simple extraction can cost anywhere between AUD $150 and $350 per tooth, depending on the location of the clinic and the experience of the dentist.

2. Surgical Extraction

A surgical extraction is required when the tooth is impacted, partially erupted, or has other complications. This procedure often requires an oral surgeon and can involve cutting into the gum and possibly removing bone. Surgical extractions are more complex and, therefore, more expensive.

- Cost: The cost of a surgical extraction can range from AUD $300 to $600 per tooth. If multiple teeth need to be removed or if general anaesthesia is required, the total cost can be much higher, sometimes exceeding AUD $2,000 for all four wisdom teeth.

Additional Costs

- X-rays: Before removing wisdom teeth, a dentist will typically take X-rays to assess the position and condition of the teeth. The cost of an X-ray can range from AUD $40 to $150, depending on the type of imaging required.

- Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia is usually included in the cost of the extraction, but if you require sedation or general anaesthesia, there may be additional charges. Sedation can cost anywhere from AUD $250 to $800, depending on the type used.

- Hospital Fees: If the procedure is performed in a hospital setting (as opposed to a dental clinic), there may be additional hospital fees, which can range from AUD $1,000 to $2,000.

Does Health Insurance Cover Wisdom Tooth Removal?

Many Australians have private health insurance that covers dental procedures, but the level of coverage varies depending on the plan. Wisdom tooth removal is often classified as “major dental” or “surgical,” so it’s essential to check your policy to see what is covered.

- Basic Extras Cover: Some basic extras policies may cover a portion of the cost for wisdom tooth extractions, particularly simple extractions. However, coverage is often limited, and patients may still need to pay a significant out-of-pocket amount.

- Comprehensive Extras Cover: More comprehensive plans typically offer better coverage for surgical extractions, including anaesthesia and hospital fees. Depending on your level of coverage, you might still have to pay a gap fee, but the insurance will significantly reduce the total cost.

Additionally, if you are covered by Medicare and need to have your wisdom teeth removed in a public hospital (usually only for very complex cases), part of the procedure may be covered, though waiting times can be long.

Payment Plans

If the cost of wisdom tooth removal is prohibitive, many dental clinics offer payment plans to make the procedure more affordable. Some clinics provide interest-free payment options, allowing you to spread the cost over several months. This can be especially helpful if you need multiple teeth removed or require surgery.

Conclusion

Wisdom teeth earn their name because they emerge during the “wise” years of young adulthood. However, these teeth often bring more trouble than wisdom due to their tendency to become impacted, crowded, or infected. In Australia, the cost of removing wisdom teeth can range from AUD $150 to over $600 per tooth, depending on the complexity of the extraction and whether additional procedures like sedation or hospitalization are required. While health insurance and payment plans can help offset some of the costs, it’s essential to plan ahead and consult with your dentist or oral surgeon to understand the specific financial implications of wisdom tooth removal for your situation. If you suspect you may need your wisdom teeth removed, it’s wise to consult a dental professional sooner rather than later, as delaying the procedure can lead to more severe problems and increased costs in the long run.

Managing Melasma In Darker Skin Tones

December 19, 2021

Burton

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Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that can affect the face, neck, shoulders, and decolletage. It is often mistaken for age spots, but it’s caused by excessive melanin, which causes the skin to become uneven in tone. In this article, we’re going to look at treatment creams and serums designed to treat this condition. But first, let’s look at what exactly causes melasma.

What Causes Melasma?

Melasma is a dark pigmentation of the skin which typically affects women during pregnancy or menopause. It is caused by hormonal fluctuations (including from hormonal treatments) or pregnancy, sun exposure, and genetic predisposition. For those who suffer from melasma (a condition that occurs when the pigment cells of the epidermis change and create patches of discolouration on the skin), it can be difficult to find treatment options.

People with darker skin tones are more susceptible to pigmentation problems, where minor skin injuries like insect bites, can cause a change in skin pigment, creating dark spots called hyperpigmentation. The symptoms of melasma can differ depending on a person’s skin tone with melasma on dark skin appearing as dark brown or grey-brown patches. These patches often appear in asymmetrical patterns on both sides of the face or other parts of the body:

Brachial: Appearing on the shoulders and upper arms.

Centrofacial: Appearing on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and upper lip.

Lateral cheek pattern: Appearing on both cheeks.

Malar: Appearing on your cheeks and nose.

Mandibular: Appearing on the jawline.

Neck: In people aged 50 or older, melasma can appear on all sides of the neck.

There are melasma treatment creams that can help reduce signs of melasma that use any of the following ingredients: retinoids, hydroquinone, ketoconazole, Tazorac, tretinoin, azelaic acid.

Types of Melasma

There are three types of melasma, which correspond to the depth of the hyperpigmentation in the skin:

Epidermal: This presents as a dark brown colour, a well-defined border, appears obviously under black light and sometimes responds well to treatment.

Dermal: This type has a light brown or bluish colour, a hazy border, appears no differently under black light and doesn’t respond well to treatment.

Mixed melasma: This is the most common of the three, has both bluish and brown patches, shows a mixed pattern under black light, and shows some response to treatment.

Melasma Treatment For Darker Skin

Due to the complexity of its causes, melasma include brightening and fading creams and serums, hydroquinone, retinoids, and chemical peels. There are also a number of in-clinic therapies that have been shown to be safe and effective melasma treatments for darker skin tones.

Prescription Only Creams & Serums: Today, there are more and more telemedicine providers creating personalised Melasma treatments for their patients based on their lifestyles, and current skincare routines. While you could continue to use over-the-counter (OTC) melasma creams, they will often contain the same ingredient mix, in the same proportions (NOT tailored to your specific needs), for most conditions. Everyone’s skin is different, which makes these OTC creams largely ineffective when it comes to fading the pigmentation that comes with melasma.

With a personalised treatment cream blended specifically for your skin’s sensitivity and tolerance, you will see a marked improvement (usually between three to six months of continuous use of the treatment) in your pigmentation. Telemedicine services often begin with a questionnaire, followed by an online consultation with a doctor, who will then diagnose your melasma. A prescription-only cream base or serum is then formulated for your needs and delivered to your door.

These clinically compounded melasma creams will have a combination of the following ingredients, dependent on what other skin problems you might be addressing at the same time:

Azelaic Acid – The properties of azelaic acid are the reason it is so effective in helping to get rid of melasma. There are three main reasons why this acid is so effective in fighting this skin disease: it targets melanin, its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness, and it has antioxidant properties that help fight free radicals.

Hydroquinone – Hydroquinone is a powerful ingredient that helps to fight against hyperpigmentation. It works by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin formation. Hydroquinone is found in creams and lotions to combat the common skin condition melasma.

Tranexamic Acid – This acid, also known as TXA, is a chemical compound that has been shown to help with fading melasma. This is because TXA was found to inhibit the growth of melanin (the pigment responsible for producing skin discolouration). It also helps with inflammation and makes it easier for the other ingredients in the treatment to work.

Tretinoin – Tretinoin, a synthetic form of vitamin A, is one of the most popular medications prescribed to patients with melasma. This cream contains the active ingredient tretinoin, which is a retinoid that has anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with other important ingredients found in topical creams, it can help people get rid of dark spots and hyperpigmentation caused by melasma.

Retinol – Retinols targets a multitude of anti-ageing concerns, from skin tone to laxity and texture. Once you find the right retinoid for your skin type, it smooths fine lines and wrinkles, boosts collagen production, and helps banish hyperpigmentation

Microdermabrasion: A mildly abrasive instrument is used to remove the top layer of skin, often used for treating scarring, discolouration, sun damage, and stretch marks.

Microneedling: When treating melasma, microneedling is used in tandem with skin lightening creams containing a topical retinoid, vitamin C serums, or hydroquinone creams.

Medium-Depth Chemical Peel: Glycolic peels are commonly used to treat melasma. Azelaic acid reduces melasma in darker skin tones with its anti-melanin properties that act on hyperactive melanocytes.

Laser and Light Therapy: If you have dark skin, you should avoid Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments, Fraxel lasers, skin-tightening lasers at the 1540 wavelength, and laser hair removal. These treatments cause trauma to the skin, which for darker tones can often result in post-inflammatory pigmentation.

With all of this in mind – while it can take time to see results from these treatments, we wish there was a magical cream – if it makes you feel more confident it is definitely worth investing in your skin.

What happens if you cut all the branches off a tree?

May 24, 2021

Burton

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What would happen if you were to cut all of the branches off a tree? Would it die instantly? Or would it take a long-time to decay? Would it even kill the tree at all? Is it possible to recover from over pruning? In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know; perfect if you’ve been a little too liberal with those pruning shears!

Does cutting off dead branches help a tree?

Absolutely! In fact, the only option is to cut a dead branch off of a tree. Leaving it to rot will only make it a health hazard. In addition to that, a dead branch is rife for infestation, so getting rid of it as soon as possible is much better for the health of the tree.

How do you cut a tree limb without killing the tree?

Before you do anything, it helps to have the right, well-maintained tools. Using a blunt saw that you borrowed from your grandad isn’t going to cut it ladies and gentlemen.

First, you need to find the right distance from the collar of the tree (just below the collar) before you start sawing off a limb from a tree. If you leave it too short, you’ll be exposing the tree to great danger. If ever you’ve seen a hole in the side of the tree with a rotten and hollowed out centre, that more than likely began by the limb being cut far too close to the tree.

In the same breath, leaving a tree’s branch too long when you remove it then you’ll run the risk of a slower recovery (that and it defeats the purpose of removing the limb in the first place).

*Pro Tip*

First, cut a small groove into and around the branch partway up the tree. This is known as a ‘notch cut’. Then, make a second cut on the limb a little further down from the notch cut where you are going to remove the limb. This is the relief cut. Doing this will ensure that the bark doesn’t peel off, damaging the trunk and exposing it to pests and disease.

What happens if you cut all the branches off a tree?

It is difficult to find the happy medium when you are pruning a tree. If you cut to little you are wasting your time, and if you cut too much you are putting the tree’s health in jeopardy. But, what happens if you go too far and cut all of the branches off a tree? Will it be beyond saving?

The fact is, in many cases it is possible for the tree to make a full recovery. Of course, there’s going to need to be some intervention (non-violent this time) on your part.

How can you fix an over-pruned tree?

As a rule of thumb, you should never need to remove more than 15 to 20% of a tree’s canopy at one time. This is important to remember for next time. However, what is important right now is that if you have over-pruned and you are worried about its future health, follow this step-by-step guide to set it right.

1 – Know your tree

Knowing that species of plant you have is always helpful! Some shrubs can be cut straight down to the ground and they will grow happily as if nothing had ever happened, whereas others will simply die. Know your tree and care for it accordingly.

2 – Have patience

It can take a year or two before you’ll see any new blooms on the new limbs that have recovered after a serious case of over-pruning. Be patient and try not to panic.

3 – Get an expert opinion

If you aren’t quite sure, contact reputable arborists like A B Trees and leverage their expertise! They will likely be able to give you a definitive answer as to whether your tree is going to recover or not.

4 – Give it some extra special TLC

Your tree has been through a lot, but if you give it some extra love and help it out a bit, you’ll be able to aid in the recovery. For example, water it when it’s dry (and before winter), keep the soil mulched and with plenty of extra nutrition, and of course, fertilise the tree if necessary!

5 – Guide its new form

As the new growths start coming in, adopt a pruning technique called ‘thinning’. This can help you to keep an even canopy and the tree’s main branches nice and strong!

6 – Don’t do it again!

You will have to wait a while before your tree is back to normal after a serious pruning. Just remember not to make the same mistakes twice. Of course, if you are uncomfortable with pruning a tree by yourself then you can easily hire the experts to take care of it for you!

Conclusion

So, what happens if you cut all of the branches off a tree? Well, in most cases, the tree will likely be able to surprise, but you’d be putting it through a great deal of trauma for no good reason. If you simply want the tree gone because it is blocking the view or preventing sunlight to get through, then you can always have it removed altogether and safe yourself the trouble.

In any case, if you have over-pruned and you are worried that your tree might not recover, try not to panic. In most cases you’ll be absolutely fine, but it’s always worth seeking the expertise of your local arborist just in case!

Understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine

October 30, 2020

Burton

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Chinese traditional medicine, also known as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is a broad range of medicine practices sharing common concepts which have been developed in China and are based on a tradition of more than 2,000 years ago, including various forms of herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage, exercise, and dietary therapy. It is formed by summarizing the precious experience of understanding life, maintaining health, and fighting diseases accumulated in daily life.

In TCM practitioners use herbal medicines and various mind and body practices to treat or prevent health problems. Today Chinese traditional Medicine continues to develop and is used by millions of people around the world.

Chinese Traditional Medicine Theory

It helps to understand that Chinese medicine is a practical system of medicine that grew out of empirical traditions and thousands of years of observed outcomes.

TCM is based around 4 ancient belief systems:

The human body is a miniature version of the larger, surrounding universe.
Harmony between two opposing yet complementary forces, called yin and yang, supports health, and disease results from an imbalance between these forces.
Five elements—fire, earth, wood, metal, and water—symbolically represent all phenomena, including the stages of human life, and explain the functioning of the body and how it changes during disease.
Qi, a vital energy that flows through the body, performs multiple functions in maintaining health.

There are several forms of Chinese Medicine practiced; the most common are:

Herbal Medicine – Chinese herbal medicine is the practice of combining individual herbs into formulas to promote health benefits. Herbs are carefully selected, processed, and dried. They are given to a patient in a tea or pill, or in the form of pharmaceutical grade extracts—the growing choice for most patients and practitioners.
Acupuncture – Acupuncture entails stimulating certain points on the body, usually with a needle penetrating the skin, to alleviate pain or to help treat various health conditions. The general theory is based on the premise that there are patterns of energy flow (Qi) through the body that are essential for health. Disruptions of this flow are believed to be responsible for disease.
Cupping – In cupping a therapist puts special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction. People get it for many purposes, including helping with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being, and as a type of deep-tissue massage.
Scraping – Scraping, or “Gua Sha”, uses pieces of smooth jade, bone, animal tusks, horns, or smooth stones to scrape along the skin to release obstruction and toxins that are trapped at the surface of the skin. The scraping is done until red spots then bruising cover the treatment area.
Tai chi – Tai chi is a centuries-old mind and body practice. It involves gentle, dance-like body movements with mental focus, breathing, and relaxation. It has evolved over centuries to become a means of alleviating stress and anxiety, a form of “meditation in motion.”
Qigong – Qigong encompasses physical postures, breathing techniques and focused intention. The word Qigong (Chi Kung) is made up of two Chinese words. Qi is pronounced “chee” and is usually translated to mean the life force or vital-energy that flows through all things in the universe.

Is Chinese medicine safe?

Yes, most forms are considered safe. However, herbal medicines used in TCM are not exactly regulated like western medicine. Many of the herbal products are available online and marketed as dietary supplements. Some Chinese herbal products are safe, but others may not be. Therefore, it is vital to ensure you receive your Chinese herbal medicine from a certified Chinese medicine doctor or supplier.

How to Hire the Right Staff for Your Event

December 9, 2019

Burton

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So, you’re hosting an event? Congratulations! You’ve entered what is one of the most exciting, rewarding and equally frustrating industries imaginable. It’s so much fun, but without the correct due diligence it can be an absolute nightmare. Which is why it is so important to have the right crew around you to offer their support. The question is, how do you hire the right staff for your event? In this article, we’re going to focus on the benefits of temp event staff and why!

1 – Seek out a temp event staff recruitment agency

If you want to hire staff for your event, and you want them to be a top-class bunch, then you’ll need to find a specialise recruitment agency. Fortunately, there are dedicated agencies that recruit employees for events only, which is a very specialist niche. So, whether it’s an AV crew, MC’s to host the event, catering staff, a technical stage management crew, or someone to set up and decorate your stage: you’ll find everything you need under one agency.

2 – Employee a full-time crew for certain roles

Obviously, you’re not going to need a full-time crew if you’re hosting sporadic events that vary in staffing requirements. You might not always need bar staff because certain venues may only provide their own. There are so many factors at play, which is why you’ll want a close unit of full-time staff to assist you with the running of the business. But then the other smaller tasks that you would otherwise delegate, can be handled by temporary staff.

3 – Don’t be put off by the word “temporary”

To some people, temporary means “no good”. As though they can’t hold down a full-time job because they’re inexperienced and are constantly making mistakes. Well, stop your worrying! The reason why temp event staff agencies exist, is because the very nature of the business relies on being able to pick up certain talented individuals at a moment’s notice. It makes sense for many of these candidates to work on a temp basis. They get paid well and there’s always experiencing something new!

So, what you can actually expect, are a team of talented and experienced individuals who will—in most cases—be able to simply turn up and crack on with their duties without too much in the way of guidance from your end.

4 – You won’t need to hire or buy any gear

Burton

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As you well know, a decent accountant worth their salt will be able to help transform your business. They will streamline your books, reduce the overall amount of tax that you will have to pay and often advise you on other ways to cut-back. But, are you getting the most out of your accountant? That’s not to suggest that perhaps your accountant isn’t going above and beyond for you, though that there are things that you might be able to do for yourself, that will in turn make your accounts job easier.

Author Archives: Burton

Why Are They Called Wisdom Teeth?

Development of Wisdom Teeth

Problems Associated With Wisdom Teeth

How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Wisdom Tooth in Australia?

1. Simple Extraction

2. Surgical Extraction

Additional Costs

Does Health Insurance Cover Wisdom Tooth Removal?

Payment Plans

Conclusion

What Causes Melasma?

Types of Melasma

Melasma Treatment For Darker Skin

Does cutting off dead branches help a tree?

How do you cut a tree limb without killing the tree?

What happens if you cut all the branches off a tree?

How can you fix an over-pruned tree?

1 – Know your tree

2 – Have patience

3 – Get an expert opinion

4 – Give it some extra special TLC

5 – Guide its new form

6 – Don’t do it again!

Conclusion

Chinese Traditional Medicine Theory

TCM is based around 4 ancient belief systems:

There are several forms of Chinese Medicine practiced; the most common are:

Is Chinese medicine safe?

1 – Seek out a temp event staff recruitment agency

2 – Employee a full-time crew for certain roles

3 – Don’t be put off by the word “temporary”

4 – You won’t need to hire or buy any gear

5 – Shop around

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