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July 2020

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Smile Makeover | Combining Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

Enhance Your Appearance with a Smile Makeover

Everyone wants a gorgeous smile. After all, it’s one of the first things people notice when they meet you for the first time. Patients who wish to dramatically enhance their appearance can undergo a smile makeover at Magic Smiles. This comprehensive treatment combines two or more cosmetic dentistry procedures into a custom plan.

Magic Smiles has two convenient locations to serve you: Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga. Our Coffs dentists are skilled and experienced in cosmetic dentistry. Combining science and artistry, they help our patients achieve the beautiful, healthy smiles they desire.

Am I a Candidate for a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is strictly cosmetic in nature. To qualify, patients should already be in good oral health. Issues such as decay and gum disease must be treated prior to any cosmetic procedure. Otherwise, it could compromise your oral health even further.

To find out if you are a candidate for a smile makeover, schedule a consultation at one of our surgery locations. We can talk with you in detail about your options.

Commonly Combined Procedures

First, it’s important to understand that no two smile makeovers are the same. Because each patient is unique, every treatment plan reflects their individual goals. Here are some of the most common treatments that our patients combine.

Teeth Whitening

Over time, dark-colored foods and beverages can cause the teeth to become stained and yellow. Professional teeth whitening can brighten the smile dramatically – by several shades. At Magic Smiles, we offer both in-office and take-home whitening.

Dental Bonding

Teeth that are chipped and cracked can be repaired with dental bonding. During this treatment, your dentist applies a tooth-colored composite resin material to conceal cosmetic imperfections. Bonding can even address deep dental stains that don’t respond to teeth whitening.

In general, dental bonding lasts about five to seven years. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that delivers beautiful results.

Porcelain Veneers

Chipped, cracked, misshapen, or discolored teeth can be treated with porcelain veneers. These custom-crafted restorations adhere to the front surfaces of the teeth to conceal a wide range of cosmetic imperfections and bring balance to your smile.

Porcelain veneers treatment can be completed in two office visits. During the first appointment, your dentist prepares the teeth by removing small amounts of enamel. Next, impressions are taken of your teeth. These are sent to our dental lab for the fabrication of your veneers.

When the lab has created your restorations, we will schedule you for a second appointment. During this visit, your dentist assesses the fit and appearance of your veneers and bonds them permanently into place.

Porcelain veneers are strong and durable. With proper care, they can last two decades or longer.

Gum Contouring

Excess gum tissue can cover portions of the teeth, making them appear short or boxy. Also referred to as a “gummy smile”, this condition can be addressed with gum contouring. During this procedure, your dentist removes excess tissue and reshapes the existing gumline. The result is a more balanced and symmetrical smile.

Traditionally, gum contouring was performed with scalpels and sutures. Today, advanced laser technology can be used instead, resulting in less bleeding and discomfort.

Clear Aligner Therapy

Misaligned teeth can detract from your appearance. But more importantly, they have a negative impact on oral health. Clear aligner therapy is a popular braces alternative that straightens your teeth discreetly using clear plastic trays.

Clear aligners are also removeable, so patients can still enjoy their favorite foods while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Best of all, clear aligner therapy can correct most of the same orthodontic problems as traditional braces.

Schedule Your Smile Makeover Consultation

Even if you have a healthy smile, there may be certain aesthetic elements you wish to improve. A smile makeover can dramatically enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, call one of our three convenient office locations.

Woolgoolga

43 Beach Street
Woolgoolga
NSW 2456
P: (02) 6654-0650
[email protected]
Mon – Fri: 9am to 5pm
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed

    Coffs Harbour

    176 Pacific Hwy, Suite 2
    Coffs Harbour
    NSW 2450
    P: (02) 6652-3242
    [email protected]
    Mon-Fri: 9am to 5pm
    Sat: 9am-1pm
    Sun: Closed

      man with invisalign

      How to Clean Clear Aligners

      By Invisalign No Comments

      Many of our patients choose clear aligner therapy over traditional orthodontics. It’s simple, discreet, and you can still eat all of your favorite foods while straightening your smile. Maintaining your orthodontic trays is one of the most important aspects of care. Here, our team at Magic Smiles offers recommendations on how to clean clear aligners so your mouth can stay fresh while you’re undergoing treatment.

      The dentists at our surgery offer clear aligner therapy to qualifying patients of all ages. We serve individuals and families in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour.

      Rinse Your Aligners after Wearing

      Every time you remove your aligners, rinse them off under lukewarm water. This helps to remove food particles, saliva, and bacteria from the trays and reduce odor. Never use hot water to rinse your aligners, as the heat can actually make them warp.

      Clean Your Aligners with Soap and Water

      Bacteria can build up on the trays during wear. You should take your aligners out and brush them at least twice a day – typically when you wake up in the morning and before you go to bed at night.

      While you’ll brush your teeth with toothpaste, you should never use toothpaste to clean your aligners, as it can actually scratch the plastic. Instead, use clear antibacterial soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help reduce bacteria and keep your mouth healthy. Never use soaps with dyes, as they can discolor the aligners.

      Soak Your Trays Once a Day

      In addition to brushing your aligners, you should also soak them once a day. Try to do this during mealtime to minimize the length of time the trays are not worn.

      There are cleaners available made specifically for soaking aligners. You can also soak them in vinegar and water. Once complete, brush away any debris, rinse the trays thoroughly, then place them back in your mouth.

      Brush and Floss Your Teeth Thoroughly

      Whenever you clean your trays, be sure to brush and floss your teeth as well. If your teeth aren’t clean when you put your trays back in your mouth, food and bacteria can become trapped and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.

      We recommend brushing after every meal and flossing between the teeth at least once every day. You can also use an antibacterial mouthwash that will help reduce harmful microbe levels.

      Use a Protective Carrying Case

      Aligner trays must be worn at least 22 hours every day to be effective. However, you must still remove them when you’re eating or drinking. Any time they are not in your mouth or soaking, they should be kept in a protective case. Leaving them out in the open can increase the risk for bacterial buildup. You should never carry your trays loose in your pockets or handbag; they can warp easily. Similarly, avoid leaving them in a hot car. Always store your aligners in a cool, safe place.

      Never Eat or Drink with Your Trays In

      The only thing you should ever drink while your aligners are in place is water. Any other type of food or beverage can damage or stain your aligners. These trays are not made to withstand the pressures of chewing.

      Contact Us to Learn More

      If you’re interested in clear aligner therapy or would like to know more about properly cleaning your trays, reach out to your Coffs dentist. Contact Magic Smiles online or call one of our three convenient office locations.

      Woolgoolga

      43 Beach Street
      Woolgoolga
      NSW 2456
      P: (02) 6654-0650
      [email protected]
      Mon – Fri: 9am to 5pm
      Sat: Closed
      Sun: Closed

        Coffs Harbour

        176 Pacific Hwy, Suite 2
        Coffs Harbour
        NSW 2450
        P: (02) 6652-3242
        [email protected]
        Mon-Fri: 9am to 5pm
        Sat: 9am-1pm
        Sun: Closed

          person flossing teeth

          Caring for Dental Crowns

          By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

          Teeth that are weak, damaged, or decayed can be restored with dental crowns. These restorations are custom made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, metal, and zirconia. Crowns are versatile and can restore natural teeth as well as dental implants.

          Our Coffs dentists place dental crowns at Magic Smiles. Our surgery proudly serves Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, and surrounding communities. Here, our team will offer tips and tricks for prolonging the life of your new restoration.

          What’s the Lifespan of a Dental Crown?

          On average, crowns last between five and 15 years. However, as dental materials continue to advance, crowns are lasting longer and longer. In fact, with appropriate care and maintenance, dental crowns can last 30 years or longer.

          Part of preserving your dental crown is taking good care of it. In the sections that follow, we’ll discuss how to properly clean your restorations. We’ll also offer some recommendations for reducing the risk of damage.

          Cleaning Dental Crowns

          Fortunately, dental crowns don’t require a lot of additional maintenance. However, there are certainly some guidelines that can help your restoration last a long time:

          • Brush two to three times a day. Whether you have restorations or not, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day. If you have porcelain or zirconia crowns, however, it’s important to choose a toothpaste that won’t damage the surface. Some toothpaste formulas have harsh ingredients, which cause micro-scratches in the crown. It’s best to choose a formula without baking soda or hydrogen peroxide.
          • Floss daily. Clean between the teeth every day. This can be done with traditional dental floss, but there are other tools available as well, such as interproximal brushes and dental picks. If your crown is supported by a dental implant, be sure to ask your dentist or hygienist to demonstrate proper flossing techniques.
          • Use an antibacterial mouthwash. While crowns don’t decay, the underlying tooth structure is still vulnerable to cavities. An antibacterial rinse can help protect the teeth from harmful bacteria and promote overall oral health.
          • Visit your dentist regularly. You should see your Coffs dentist routinely for exams and cleans. During these visits, we can assess the health of your crown and ensure it’s still in good condition. Professional cleans will also remove plaque in hard-to-reach areas.

          Other Maintenance Tips

          In addition to oral health recommendations, there are a few other tips and tricks that will help prolong the life of your crown:

          • Avoid crunchy, chewy, or sticky foods. Hard foods like nuts and popcorn can actually damage your crown. Taffy, caramels, and other sticky foods can dislodge or loosen your crown. It’s best to avoid these foods altogether. But if you must eat them, try to chew in an area that doesn’t have a crown.
          • Never use your teeth as tools. Opening packages or tearing tags off of clothing can seriously damage your crowns, not to mention your natural teeth.
          • Quit bad habits. If you chew on ice, pen caps, or pencil erasers, it can eventually damage your restorations. In the same way, biting your nails can be detrimental to your oral health.

          Learn More about Dental Crowns

          If you have dental crowns, proper care and maintenance is essential. To learn more, schedule a consultation with a Coffs dentist at Magic Smiles. Contact us online or call us at one of our three convenient locations.

          Woolgoolga

          43 Beach Street
          Woolgoolga
          NSW 2456
          P: (02) 6654-0650
          [email protected]
          Mon – Fri: 9am to 5pm
          Sat: Closed
          Sun: Closed

            Coffs Harbour

            176 Pacific Hwy, Suite 2
            Coffs Harbour
            NSW 2450
            P: (02) 6652-3242
            [email protected]
            Mon-Fri: 9am to 5pm
            Sat: 9am-1pm
            Sun: Closed

              Dental Implants vs Dental Bridges: Which is Right for You?

              By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

              Tooth loss can be devastating to your smile and your oral health. Whenever you lose a tooth, it’s important to explore your replacement options as soon as possible. At Magic Smiles, our team offers a wide range of restorative treatments, including dental bridges and dental implants. But which one is right for you? In this informative article, we’ll compare these two treatment options and explore the pros and cons of each.

              About Dental Bridges

              A dental bridge is a multi-unit restoration carved from a solid piece of material. Bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including metal alloys, ceramic, zirconia, and more. They consist of two dental crowns on the end with artificial teeth (pontics) in the middle. Dental bridges can replace a single missing tooth or up to three teeth in a row.

              When Are Dental Bridges Recommended?

              Dental bridges are appropriate for just about anyone who is interested in replacing missing teeth. Candidates must have at least one healthy tooth on each side of the space. These natural teeth serve as anchors, which will hold the restoration firmly in place.

              This type of treatment is nonsurgical, so it may be ideal for patients who cannot undergo oral surgery for medical reasons. Patients who consider dental bridges must also be free from gum disease. This type of infection can seriously impede treatment. Therefore, periodontal health should be addressed first.

              Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges

              Dental bridges have been around for a long time. They are predictable, and in many cases, they are more affordable than dental implants.

              However, bridges only last about five to 15 years on average, so they will likely need replacing at some point. They also require the alteration of natural tooth structure, which could increase the risk of problems in the future.

              About Dental Implants

              Unlike bridges, which only replace the crowns of missing teeth, dental implants replace the roots as well. This is significant since roots play a major role in preserving bone density.

              Implants are tiny, threaded posts made from surgical-grade titanium. They are placed into the jaw during an outpatient surgical visit. During the healing process, the surrounding bone tissue fuses to the implant post, offering maximum stability. Finally, a dental crown is added. Once treatment is complete, an implant can be used just like a natural tooth.

              When Are Dental Implants Recommended?

              Dental implants are considered the longest-lasting, most successful teeth replacement option. They are recommended any time an individual loses one or more teeth.

              Implants can only be placed in individuals who have fully developed jawbones. Therefore, patients should be at least 18 years old and in good oral and overall health.

              Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

              Dental implants may have a higher up-front cost than dental bridges. However, they can last a lifetime with proper care. For this reason, implants are considered a fantastic investment.

              Unlike dental bridges, implants require oral surgery. Patients who do not want to undergo a surgical procedure may wish to pursue other options. However, most individuals agree that the benefits of dental implants far outweigh the risks.

              Contact Magic Smiles for More Information

              Is tooth loss affecting your smile and your confidence? Our team at Magic Smiles can help determine a treatment option that will meet your needs. To learn more about dental bridges or dental implants, schedule an appointment at one of our two office locations serving Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour.

              Woolgoolga

              43 Beach Street
              Woolgoolga
              NSW 2456
              P: (02) 6654-0650
              [email protected]
              Mon – Fri: 9am to 5pm
              Sat: Closed
              Sun: Closed

                Coffs Harbour

                176 Pacific Hwy, Suite 2
                Coffs Harbour
                NSW 2450
                P: (02) 6652-3242
                [email protected]
                Mon-Fri: 9am to 5pm
                Sat: 9am-1pm
                Sun: Closed