Monthly Archives

December 2020

Dec 30
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white tooth with gold crown

What is the purpose of a tooth crown?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

It’s nearly impossible to know how many people have a tooth crown, but chances are, you know a few people who do. So, how do you know if you’ll ever need one? And what’s the purpose of a dental crown anyway?

The most common purposes of a dental crown are to protect a tooth or hold something in place. Check out this blog to learn more.

Reasons You Might Need A Tooth Crown

Dentists often recommend dental crowns for one of these reasons:

1. To support a tooth with a large filling

Patients who have had multiple fillings in one tooth or have had a filling replaced so many times that there is more composite resin material than tooth may need a dental crown. When there isn’t enough natural tooth structure left, it will become weak and more susceptible to breaking. A dental crown can restore strength to the tooth.

2. To protect a weak tooth

A weak tooth may be one like we just discussed, but it can also be one that has been damaged by a trauma of some kind. In the same way a dental crown helps a tooth with a large filling, it can help strengthen a weak tooth so that it functions properly.

3. To restore a tooth that has been chipped or cracked

Chips and cracks can be especially dangerous if the tooth has been damaged beyond the crown. Cracks can especially create a way for disease-causing bacteria to enter into the inner part of the tooth, causing immense pain. Once the infection spreads, the tooth may need to be extracted.

If you’ve experienced some sort of trauma to a tooth, be sure to contact your emergency dentist as soon as possible.

4. When the patient needs a dental bridge

A traditional dental bridge is made up of two tooth crowns and one to three prosthetic teeth. When a dentist places a dental bridge, he must first remove a small amount of enamel from the neighboring teeth. These teeth must be healthy to keep the bridge in place.

5. To cover a dental implant

Dental implants can be used to replace one missing tooth or an entire arch of missing teeth. Once placed, the dentist covers the small, screw-like implant with a custom-made tooth crown. Dental implants require surgery, but they are the most effective way to replace missing teeth.

Types of Dental Crowns

A tooth crown can be crafted from several materials, including:

  • Composite resin
  • Metal
  • Ceramics
  • Porcelain
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal

To determine which material is best for your smile, your dentist will consider the following:

  • Location of the tooth
  • Function of the tooth
  • How much the tooth shows when you smile
  • Gum tissue
  • The color of your natural teeth

These considerations ensure that your dental crown looks and feels natural. Of course, the patient always has the final say on the type of crown!

When deciding on a dental crown material, most patients are concerned with cost, aesthetics, and durability. Talk to your dentist about the pros and cons of each type of crown material.

Tooth Crown Placement in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour

Searching for a dentist to place your dental crown? Our experts at Magic Smiles are prepared to help! But first, we’ll determine whether you actually need a dental crown or not. For many dental issues, there are multiple treatment options.

To schedule an appointment with our friendly dental team, contact one of our convenient locations today.

Dec 21
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illustration depicting periodontitis

Can periodontitis be reversed?

By Oral Health No Comments

The term “periodontitis” refers to the second stage of gum disease, following gingivitis. This serious gum infection can wreak havoc on your oral health. Fortunately, gingivitis can be reversed with a regular dental clean and improved oral hygiene at home. Can periodontitis be reversed with dental cleans as well? In short, the answer is no. However, the condition can be treated and maintained with periodontal therapies.

Here, our team at Magic Smiles – serving Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour – explores the topic of periodontitis and offers some recommendations for oral health maintenance. Read on to learn more.

The Stages of Gum Disease

There are really only three stages of gum disease: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis is characterised by red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Even though the gums are inflamed at this stage, the infection has not yet affected the supporting bone.

Left untreated, however, gingivitis progresses into periodontitis. At this stage, the infection travels beneath the gum tissue and starts eroding the jawbone. This results in periodontal pockets around the teeth. Plaque, food, and bacteria become trapped in these pockets, perpetuating a harmful cycle. Unfortunately, a dental clean will not be sufficient to remove bacteria in these hard-to-reach areas. More advanced therapies are necessary to properly treat periodontitis.

Treating Periodontitis

Once gum disease has progressed to periodontitis, there is no cure. Fortunately, however, the disease can be successfully maintained.

There are several treatments available that can successfully halt the progression of periodontal disease. The solution that is recommended for you will depend on the severity of disease.

Scaling and Root Planing

Mild to moderate periodontitis can often be treated with scaling and root planing. This procedure is often called a deep dental clean because it reaches further beneath the gum line to sweep away harmful bacteria, plaque, and food deposits. Once the teeth have been cleaned, the teeth roots are then smoothed to deter further irritants from reattaching. Your dentist or hygienist numbs your gums prior to treatment so you can remain comfortable during your visit.

Laser Periodontal Therapy

If the disease is more advanced, you may require laser treatment. Soft tissue diode lasers target infected tissue while keeping healthy tissue intact. Because the laser cauterises tissue, it helps seal periodontal pockets and reduce the risk of reinfection.

Traditional Gum Surgery

Advanced periodontitis requires traditional gum surgery. During this procedure, your dentist makes incisions and moves the gums back away from the teeth. This allows proper visualisation of the supporting bone. Next, the infection is cleaned out. In many instances, areas of the bone ridge must also be recontoured to prevent further plaque buildup. Your dentist may also perform bone grafting to replenish lost bone tissue and fill in periodontal pockets. Finally, the gums are repositioned and sutured.

How do I maintain healthy gums after treatment?

Once you have undergone periodontal therapy, it’s important to maintain gum health through routine dental cleans. Your dentist will determine a schedule that is right for you, though most patients who are prone to periodontitis benefit from cleans every three to four months.

Contact us for more information.

If you suspect you have gingivitis or periodontitis, schedule an appointment at Magic Smiles. Our doctors can design a treatment plan to eliminate infection and keep your teeth and gums healthy for many years to come. Contact us online. We have three convenient locations to serve you in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour.

Dec 16
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Are dental implants right for me?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Missing teeth are more than a cosmetic issue, they contribute to more oral health issues, low self-esteem, and even overall health issues. To combat these problems, most dentists recommend dental implants.

These small, screw-like posts insert into the jawbone through the gum line and take the place of the tooth roots. Dental implants are the only restorative option that offers this type of stability. Dental bridges and dentures use other teeth and the gums to stabilize themselves; unfortunately, those don’t offer the same kind of strength or durability.

For these reasons, many patients prefer dental implants! The best way to determine if dental implants are right for you is to visit an experienced dentist. For now, here are five indications that someone is a suitable candidate for dental implants:

1. Good oral health

Patients who desire dental implants should be free of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. These problems can lead to failed dental implants if the disease-causing bacteria attack the implant site. Fortunately, as long as the problems haven’t progressed too far, the dentist can treat these issues before beginning the dental implant process.

Once the patient’s mouth is restored, the dentist can plan for dental implant placement.

2. Sufficient jawbone density

For the implant to be stable and secure, the patient must have the appropriate amount of jawbone density. If not, the implant will likely become loose.

Bone loss begins as soon as a tooth goes missing because the jawbone requires the tooth root to keep it stimulated. The good news is that when an implant is inserted into the bone, it regrows!

3. Good oral hygiene habits

Good oral hygiene is more than just brushing and flossing every day. What you brush and floss with, how often, and when all matters too.

Dentists recommend that patients of all ages brush once in the morning and once in the evening for two minutes at a time. Patients should use a fluoridated toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush for optimal cleaning. Flossing should take place in the evening after the last meal of the day. Talk to your dentist about rinsing with a mouthwash and which brands he recommends.

Good oral hygiene also includes:

  • switching out your toothbrush at least every three months or when the bristles are worn
  • drinking plenty of water throughout the day
  • eating healthy, mouth-friendly foods
  • avoiding tobacco use

When patients abide by these guidelines, their dental implants are more likely to last a lifetime.

4. No bad oral hygiene habits

Patients who desire dental implants must stop using tobacco products throughout the process. Our hope is that they would continue this even after the implants are placed!

Tobacco use creates an unhealthy and imbalanced mouth where problems like gum disease and decay thrive. These are poor conditions for dental implants to live in and will impede the healing process.

5. Willingness to endure the process

Unlike other restorative options, dental implants require surgery and months of healing time. Patients must be willing to abide by the aforementioned guidelines and trust their dentist throughout the entire process. While the process to a fully restored mouth is long, the results are certainly worth it!

Dental Implants in Woolgoolga

If you’re considering dental implants, contact our experienced and compassionate team members today at (02) 6654-0650. During your initial consultation, we’ll determine if implants are the right option for your smile.

Dec 05
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close up of mouth and dental mirror

Why are dental check-ups important? And other FAQs

By Dental Checkup No Comments

When a person wants to lose weight, she works with a dietician or physical trainer; when a person wants to improve their mental health, he works with a therapist or counselor; and when a person wants to have a healthy, beautiful smile, he works with a dentist.

Most dentists recommend patients visit the dentist at least every six months. However, some patients should visit even more often. The most obvious and important reason for these visits is to help patients gain and maintain optimum oral health. Dental check-ups help patients avoid the negative side-effects of cavities and gum disease. When patients attend these appointments regularly, dentists can track their oral health and interfere with any potential problems.

These appointments are important for patients of all ages, but especially children because dentists can help the child and parent lay the foundation for a healthy, beautiful smile throughout their lives.

Here are three more questions patients ask about dental check-ups:

1. What happens during a dental check-up?

Two things happen during a dental check-up: an oral health examination and a dental clean.

When a dentist performs an oral exam, he checks for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and any other signs of oral health problems. First, x-rays are taken of your teeth, jawbone, and jaw joints. Then, the dentist uses special tools to look more closely at the gums, teeth, and other structures in the mouth.

After completing the exam, a dental hygienist will perform a dental clean. This involves using scalers and ultrasonic instruments to remove plaque and tartar from between the teeth and along the gum line. Lastly, a special paste and rubber cup are used to polish the teeth by removing surface stains and dangerous biofilms.

Dental check-ups are the perfect time to ask your dentist questions about any issues you’ve had with your teeth, gums, or breath. Nothing is off-limits! Patients also often ask for recommendations on the best brands of toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash.

2. What if the dentist discovers a cavity or gum disease?

Minor issues like a small cavity or chip can be treated on the same day as your dental check-up. For more extensive issues like advanced gum disease or cavities, another appointment may be necessary.

If follow-up treatment is needed, be sure to talk to your dentist about all of your treatment options, payment options, and schedule a time that works well for your schedule.

3. What should I do between visits?

This is a question many patients ask during their dental check-ups. The great thing about asking in person is that you receive personalized advice. Here are the basic guidelines for at-home oral healthcare:

  • Brush twice a day—once in the morning, and once right before bed.
  • Floss every evening (after your last meal).
  • Eat healthily. Up your intake of whole foods and reduce the amount of sugar and processed foods you consume.
  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Patients who abide by these guidelines have a much better chance of maintaining a healthy mouth year-round!

Schedule Your Dental Check-Up Today

Don’t wait any longer to experience the benefits of a dental exam and cleaning. At Magic Smiles in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, our team of expert and compassionate dentists is prepared to help you achieve your best smile!

Contact one of our convenient locations today to schedule your appointment.

Dec 01
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little girl holding carrot

Children’s Dentist Tips: Reduce Cavities with Healthy Snacks

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

It seems like most commercials for oral hygiene products focus only on brushing and flossing for keeping our children’s mouths free of cavities and gum disease. Of course, this is true and necessary, but it’s also a selling tactic. What they fail to mention is that what we put in our mouths is just as important! Certain foods help prevent cavities and gum disease while others contribute to them.

This is especially true for children whose teeth tend to be much more susceptible to cavities. Nutritious meals and snacks and drinking lots of water can make a big difference in your child’s oral and overall health.

At Magic Smiles, our children’s dentist is passionate about helping parents find practical ways to support their child’s oral health. In this blog, we offer information about how snacking can make or break a smile and healthy snack ideas.

The Dangers of Sugars in Snacks

Unfortunately, many of the most convenient snacks we offer our children are full of sugar that is sometimes disguised as high fructose corn syrup, rice syrup, honey, fruit juice concentrate, and sucrose. Look for these names on food labels before buying those seemingly healthy snacks at the grocery store!

Children are only supposed to eat 25 grams of sugar per day. When hidden sugars aren’t considered, a child can easily eat and drink three times that! Along with contributing to gum disease and cavities, consuming too much sugar can lead to the following overall health problems:

  • Acne
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Depression
  • Low energy
  • Impaired memory
  • Heart disease
  • Fatty liver

Thankfully, we can help our children avoid these negative consequences by being just a little more conscious about the foods and beverages we offer them.

Tips for Reducing Sugar Consumption

One of the best ways to limit your child’s sugar intake is to eat more whole, unprocessed foods. This means more fruits and vegetables, and fewer foods that come in a package. Other ways to limit sugar include:

  1. Offer more water and less juice
  2. Use Stevia as a sweetener
  3. Choose dark chocolate over milk chocolate
  4. Use bananas and apple sauce for sweetening desserts
  5. Look for “zero added sugars” on food labels

Healthy Snack Ideas for Kids

Nutritious snacks come in four categories: fruits, veggies, protein, and calcium. When you stick to these food groups, it’s hard to go wrong! Here are some of our favorite snack ideas (we think your little one will love them, too!):

Fruits and Veggies

  • Celery and apples with natural peanut butter
  • Kale, zucchini, and sweet potato chips
  • Hummus with peppers, carrots, and celery
  • Guacamole with corn chips or pita wedges
  • Fruit smoothie

Protein

  • Beef jerky
  • Salami
  • Pepperoni
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Plain Greek yogurt (add fruit and peanut butter)
  • Roasted chickpeas

Calcium

  • Apples with almond butter
  • Scrambled eggs with cheese
  • Cottage cheese with fruit
  • Almonds
  • Fortified orange juice
  • A glass of milk

Children’s Dentist in Woolgoolga

At Magic Smiles, our team is proud to offer dentistry for children between the ages of 2 and 17. We understand what it takes to make the dentist’s office comfortable and fun so that little ones enjoy coming back!

Along with encouraging and teaching about good oral hygiene at home, we urge parents to bring their children to the dentist every six months for cleanings and preventative treatments.

To learn more about our team or to schedule an appointment with our children’s dentist, call (02) 6654-0650 today!