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Sep 18
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beautiful transformed smile with veneers

Can veneers transform my smile?

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

Who doesn’t want a beautiful, dazzling smile? A great smile starts with straight, white teeth, but what if your teeth are less than perfect? For these patients, our team at Magic Smiles offers veneers. This cosmetic treatment seamlessly improves the appearance of teeth.

Porcelain veneers are thin, strong shells that our dentist places on the surface of teeth. They are strong and durable to perform like your normal teeth. Best of all, your teeth will look and feel natural.

Who Are the Best Candidates?

The best candidates for veneers are people who have minor cosmetic issues. If your teeth are extremely crooked, misaligned, or broken, there are other treatment options available. In our practice, we use veneers for the following:

  • Small gaps
  • Small chips and breaks
  • Misshapen and crooked teeth
  • Stained teeth that are resistant to whitening

Additionally, patients should have healthy teeth and gums. If you have cavities or gum disease, the dentist needs to treat these oral health problems before you can get the treatment. This cosmetic procedure also works better for individuals who don’t clench or grind their teeth. During a consultation, our dentist can determine if veneers are the right choice to meet your needs.

What Happens During Installation?

The installation process is straightforward and involves two separate appointments. During your first visit, the doctor removes a small amount of enamel from the tooth’s surface. By removing the enamel, the dentist is making room for the veneer to fit appropriately.

Once your teeth are prepped, the doctor makes impressions, takes photos, and x-rays. The images and impressions are sent to the lab. At the laboratory, the technicians make your permanent veneers.

In some cases, the dentist might place temporary veneers while the permanent restoration is customized at the lab. Once your permanent restoration is ready, you will return to the dentist. The doctor first checks that the fit, shape, and color are correct before placing. He or she can make any need adjustments at this time. The doctor uses a strong bond to attach the veneers.

How Will I Feel Afterward?

After the treatment, it’s normal for patients to experience some discomfort and soreness. This usually subsides within a few days, and patients can take over-the-counter pain relievers to minimize any symptoms. The teeth might feel sensitive, so you might have to watch what you eat and drink. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions to minimize any symptoms.

How Do I Care for my Veneers?

Veneers are long-lasting and can last up to 20 years or even longer in some cases. To get the most out of your new veneers, you should care for them like you would your natural teeth. This includes brushing and flossing daily. Patients should also be cognizant of the foods they eat to minimize the chance of any chips or breaks.

Patients should visit their dentist regularly for check-ups. In case your teeth suffer any wear or tear, your doctor can fix or replace your veneers to restore your smile.

Schedule a Consultation

If you want to find out if dental veneers are right for you, you can contact our team to schedule a consultation. Our dentist examines your mouth and gums to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure. Give us a call at (02) 6654-0650 to speak to one of our knowledgeable team members.

 

 

 

Sep 09
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5 Reasons You May Need A Dental Crown

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Each time a dentist places a dental crown, their goal is to restore the look and function of the damaged tooth. Dental crowns are popular restorative options because they are extremely effective, durable, and versatile. Most dentists offer several types of dental crowns, such as all-ceramic, metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and zirconia. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The patient and dentist will work together to choose the material that works best for the patient’s lifestyle and smile.

Not sure if you need a crown? Here are five reasons why your dentist may suggest a dental crown:

1. Large cavity

Cavities can create large holes in a tooth when not treated early enough. In cases like these, a dentist will clean out and fill the cavity, but the surrounding tooth structure may still be weak. When that occurs, a crown is used to protect the rest of the tooth from breaking.

2. Broken cusps

The cusp of a tooth is the pointed part of the biting surface used to break up foods. These are typically broken when a person chews on things like ice or crunchy foods often. Though these types of cracks or breaks aren’t usually painful at first, they enhance a person’s risk of further breakage, tooth decay, and disease. It is important for patients to seek dental treatment for a broken cusp as soon as possible. In many cases, the dentist will recommend a dental crown.

3. Excessive wear

Bruxism (teeth grinding), acid reflux, and consuming large amounts of highly acidic foods can cause teeth to wear over time. Sometimes this process is quick and other times, teeth wear from years of neglect. Patients eventually notice that their teeth aren’t as sharp or as long as they once were.

Dentists will place a dental crown over the damaged tooth along with treating the underlying cause of the tooth wear. For example, if bruxism has caused the damage, your dentist may recommend wearing a nightguard to protect your teeth while sleeping.

4. Root canal

A patient may need root canal therapy for any of the following reasons:

  • Severe decay
  • Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
  • A faulty crown
  • A severe chip or crack in the tooth

Regardless of the reason, once the procedure is complete, the dentist will most likely place a dental crown on top of the root-canaled tooth to reinforce the tooth’s strength and function. The natural tooth serves as a pillar for the crown, keeping it secured and supported.

5. Dental implants

When a patient wants to replace a missing tooth, most dentists recommend dental implants. This tooth-replacement option is one of the safest, most durable, and natural-looking options available.

The procedure consists of placing a titanium, screw-like rod through the gums and into the jawbone—this acts as the tooth root. Once healed, the dentist will place an abutment that secures the crown to the implant. To replace more than one missing tooth, the patient may choose an implant-supported dental bridge or denture.

Dental Crown in Woolgoolga

Not sure if you need a dental crown? Visit your local dentist for an initial consultation to learn about your restorative options.

Our gentle and experienced dentists are prepared to create a dental crown that restores function and completes your smile. To schedule your initial consultation, call (02) 6654-0650.

Sep 04
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woman with Invisalign

Are Invisalign® clear aligners as great as they seem?

By Invisalign No Comments

What hinders a smile more than gaps and misalignment? Bulky, metal braces. Should the solution to a problem add to it, even if just for a little bit? While the saying, “it will get worse before it gets better” applies to some situations, it doesn’t have to apply to orthodontics.

Invisalign clear aligners offer a discreet solution to gapped, crowded, and misaligned teeth. Though this incredible product has been around for decades now, it has never been as effective as it is today. Rarely do dentists have a patient who isn’t a candidate for clear aligners.

Want to know more? Check out the rest of this blog to learn why Invisalign is one of the best orthodontic and cosmetic dentistry options for your smile.

1. Less time at the dentist’s office

With traditional braces, patients must visit the dentist regularly to have their wires or rubber bands tightened. This is extremely inconvenient for adults and teenagers who so often have packed schedules.

Because Invisalign patients don’t have brackets and wires, they don’t have to attend these appointments. Additionally, the Invisalign treatment program allows patients to receive trays for several phases of their treatments which can last for months. This means, they only need to visit the dentist for progress checks or if something is wrong with their aligner.

2. Easier maintenance

Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners can be removed. This makes them much easier to clean and enables patients to clean their teeth thoroughly before replacing the aligner. Patients who choose Invisalign are less likely to suffer from cavities, gum disease, and dental staining when they care for their mouth properly. However, it is important to note that patients must be willing to clean their teeth after every meal so that bad bacteria don’t fester beneath the aligner.

3. Discreet appearance

Undoubtedly, the number one reason patients want Invisalign is because of its discreet appearance. Traditional braces, though much less bulky now than they used to be, are obvious and distracting. Clear aligners may be somewhat noticeable, but they are completely invisible, so patients can go about their days feeling confident about their appearance and that their smile is getting more and more beautiful by the day.

4. More comfort

Brackets, wires, and rubber bands can be extremely painful and uncomfortable, especially right after placement and tightening appointments. These elements often irritate patients’ cheeks, lips, and gums.

Invisalign technology eliminates those irritants and provides patients with a smooth appliance that works just as effectively. However, in some cases, patients with Invisalign still need to wear rubber bands, so don’t be surprised if your dentist recommends them.

5. No food restrictions

Braces may inhibit a person’s ability to eat certain foods and most dentists recommend that patients avoid crunchy foods that could harm their brackets. With Invisalign, there are no such restrictions. Patients simply remove their aligners while eating—the biggest issue here is that some people forget to put their aligners back in or accidentally throw the aligner away! Yikes!

Your Invisalign Dentists in Woolgoolga

At Magic Smiles, we desire to help patients achieve healthy AND beautiful smiles. Invisalign is just one of the many ways we do that. To learn if you are a suitable candidate for Invisalign, contact our friendly dental team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule your initial consultation.

Aug 31
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happy little boy smiling

Children’s Dentistry: Why It’s Important and What It Looks Like

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Like all aspects of your child’s health, oral health is extremely important. Children are just as susceptible to decay and gum disease as adults but neglecting their teeth can gum can lead to developmental issues as well. When children don’t have healthy teeth, it becomes more difficult to chew and speak. This can lead to malnutrition, a speech impediment, and even bullying.

Children’s dentistry aims to eliminate these issues mostly by providing preventative treatments for kids of all ages. According to the Australian Dental Association, parents should bring their children to the dentist by age one or by the time their first tooth erupts. Continue reading to learn about our preventative children’s dentistry treatments and how they can help your little one achieve optimal oral health.

Regular Dental Cleans and Exams

For children, visiting the dentist every six months (sometimes even more often) is essential. During regular dental cleans and exams, a dental hygienist and the dentist will clean and examine the child’s teeth and gums. These professionals use a keen eye and gentle hand to find and treat signs of decay or gum disease.

These appointments may consist of x-rays if necessary. Additionally, the children’s dentist may also recommend one of our other preventative treatments.

Fluoride Treatments

This naturally occurring mineral strengthens dental enamel so it can stand against disease-causing bacteria that lead to decay. Typically, fluoride is brushed onto each tooth; as it sits on the teeth, it absorbs into them. Patients should avoid eating and drinking anything for 30 minutes after their fluoride treatment.

Though there is controversy over the amount of fluoride that can be used on children’s teeth, our dentists ensure that your child is only exposed to a safe and agreed-upon level of fluoride. Remember, your child’s oral health and the appearance of their smile is our top priority!

Dental Sealants

One of the best ways to prevent cavities is to ask your dentist to apply dental sealants to your child’s molars. This biocompatible plastic is thinly layered over the top of the molars where cavities are most prevalent. The substance creates a seal on top of the teeth that disease-causing bacteria can’t infiltrate.

Education

A major benefit of children’s dentistry is that the parents and kids are educated on oral health. It is particularly important for parents to understand the signs of decay in their little ones’ mouths. This may look like white patches on the gums or discolored teeth.

Your children’s dentist will also educate you on how to care for your infant’s or toddler’s teeth while they still require your help. During these regular dental visits, you will learn about the proper brushing and flossing techniques, which types of toothpastes are appropriate, and the good eating and drinking habits for your child to maintain a beautiful smile throughout his or her lifetime.

Parents will also learn how to react in case of dental trauma, such as if a tooth gets knocked out during a sporting event.

Children’s Dentistry in Woolgoolga

If you’re searching for a dentist that will treat both you and your child with respect, care, and enthusiasm, our team at Magic Smiles is for you. We’re passionate about caring for patients of all ages, especially entire families! We love working with parents to help their child gain and maintain optimal oral health for years to come.

Contact our friendly team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our children’s dentistry specialists.

Aug 19
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illustration of missing front teeth

Got missing teeth? Here are your restorative options!

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

A full, beautiful smile comes with many benefits, including higher self-esteem which significantly impacts every area of a person’s life. While having all your teeth doesn’t necessarily equal good oral health, missing teeth certainly indicates poor oral health.

This is because just one missing tooth raises a person’s risk of gum disease, cavities, tooth movement, and jawbone atrophy. The gums become more susceptible to disease-causing bacteria, the neighboring teeth begin to move towards the gap, and the jawbone in that area is no longer stimulated, therefore, it diminishes.

Thankfully, most dentists offer several ways to solve these problems through restorative dentistry. At Magic Smiles, our goal is to restore your smile so you can live a better, more fulfilling life. To do this, we offer dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants to our patients with missing teeth.

Continue reading to learn how each of these restorative dentistry options can complete your smile.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge literally “bridges” the gap between teeth. Two crowns on either side of the one, two, or three missing teeth, hold the bridge in place. These offer stability and permanency that patients don’t usually experience with dentures.

Dental bridges are most beneficial to patients with minor to moderate tooth loss. They will certainly restore function, boost self-esteem, and reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities, but will not help with jawbone atrophy. Additionally, patients with scattered missing teeth or an entire arch of missing teeth would benefit more from other restorative options.

To place the dental bridge, patients must be in good oral health and commit to maintaining good oral hygiene. Furthermore, the patient should have two healthy teeth on either side of the missing teeth. The dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the patient’s natural teeth and fit the custom dental crowns on top of them.

Dentures

Our custom dentures are a great option for patients with several missing teeth throughout their smile or a full arch of missing teeth. Our prosthetist, Harry Ramana, creates both full and partial dentures in our office.

Partial dentures can be made from several materials, including acrylic and metal. These are held in place by small metal clasps that attach to the patient’s remaining natural teeth.

Full dentures are an aesthetically pleasing option for patients missing all their teeth on the top and/or bottom arches. Along with filling in their smile, full dentures also fill out the cheeks to reduce the sunken-in appearance that comes with missing teeth. Suction and dentures adhesives hold the full dentures in place.

We also offer permanent or removable implant-supported dentures.

Dental Implants

If you’re looking for a restorative option that most resembles natural teeth, dental implants are the answer. These small, titanium rods take the place of the missing tooth roots and can support a dental crown, bridge, partial denture, or full denture.

Dental implants provide optimal stability, fully restored function, and long-lasting results. One of the greatest advantages of this option is that the implants stimulate the jawbone to undo and prevent jawbone atrophy.

Though the process of placing dental implants is significantly longer than other restorative options, most dentists agree that the time is worth it. The dental implant procedure is highly successful, and patients rarely experience complications afterward. Once complete, patients reap the benefits for decades to come.

To learn if you are a candidate for dental implants, contact our team today to schedule an initial consultation.

Restorative Dentistry for Missing Teeth in Woolgoolga

At Magic Smiles, our team of experienced and gentle dentists is prepared to restore your smile back to health, function, and beauty. To discuss your restorative options, call our office today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation.

Aug 12
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progression of gum disease

The Causes and Effects of Gum Disease

By Oral Health No Comments

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, affects millions of American adults every day—sometimes without them even realizing it. Bad breath, bleeding gums, irritated or swollen gums, and dental sensitivity are just a few of the main indicators of periodontal disease. These symptoms can affect how you interact with others, what you eat, how you eat, and how well you brush your teeth.

In other cases, gum disease symptoms are nearly invisible. By the time a person with unnoticed and untreated gum disease visits the dentist, they may need extensive dental treatment. This is why regular dental cleanings and exams are so necessary. This way, dentists can detect and treat early signs of the disease and save their patients from serious oral and overall health consequences.

Continue reading to learn about the causes and effects of gum disease.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

Ultimately, gum disease is a result of an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the mouth. When the bad, disease-causing bacteria begin to take over, it’s difficult to restore that balance without the help of a professional.

So, how do the bacteria become imbalanced? There are several ways, including:

  • Poor oral hygiene: Improper brushing techniques, lack of flossing, and poor eating habits all contributes to periodontal disease. When plaque builds up over a long period of time, it turns into tartar which can only be removed by a dentist. Plaque begins to feed the disease-causing bacteria and the infestation continues to grow.
  • Hormonal changes in women: Hormones shift during pregnancy, menstrual cycles, and menopause and can cause inflammation throughout the body—including the gums. Women should pay careful attention to their oral health during these times. The good news is that the symptoms usually disappear after their hormones are back to normal.
  • Smoking and chewing tobacco: In any form, tobacco is one of the worst substances for teeth and gums. They both inhibit the proper function of the gum tissue cells, creating an environment conducive to disease.
  • Crooked teeth: Dental misalignment can sometimes be an oral health issue as well as an aesthetic one. Crooked, crowded teeth make it much more difficult for patients to clean between their teeth and make it easier for food and bacteria to hide there. Over time, those can lead to decay and gum disease.
  • Genetics: If your parents struggled with gum disease, you’re probably at a higher risk for developing it. Be sure to tell your dentist so he can help you prevent it as much as possible.

Effects of Gum Disease

Along with being the number one cause of tooth loss among adults, periodontal disease is associated with several overall health conditions, such as:

  • Heart and kidney disease
  • Diabetes
  • Asthma
  • Alzheimer’s
  • Osteoporosis
  • Cancer
  • Impotence in men

Many studies have been done to link gum disease to each of these issues. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, these associations are most likely due to the inflammation of the gums that spreads to other parts of the body.

Get Treatment for Gum Disease Today

While the symptoms of periodontal disease may seem harmless, this infection can lead to serious consequences. Thankfully, dentists offer effective treatments to reverse or manage the problem.

At Magic Smiles, our dentists are passionate about helping patients achieve optimal oral health which includes a mouth free of gum disease. Call today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an appointment with our dental experts in Woolgoolga.

Aug 04
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parts of dental implant

Why We Offer Dental Implants for Missing Teeth

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Most people think about missing teeth as an aesthetic issue, but as dental professionals, we understand that missing teeth can significantly impact a person’s oral health. Just one missing tooth puts you at a much higher risk of developing gum disease and cavities, not to mention the negative impacts it can have on your overall wellness and appearance.

A missing tooth can also cause the rest of your teeth to shift. The neighboring teeth will likely move into the empty spot, and even the tooth adjacent to it will lengthen. This creates a domino effect, and before you know it, many of your teeth have moved away from their proper positions.

Replacing the missing tooth is the only way to avoid these problems.

While there are several options for replacing missing teeth, like dental bridges and dentures, most dentists recommend dental implants.

At Magic Smiles, our compassionate dentists work with each patient to create a personalized restorative treatment plan. Here are three reasons why we recommend dental implants to our patients:

1. Dental implants replace the tooth root.

Unlike any other restorative option, dental implants replace the root of the missing tooth. This is important because the root is responsible for keeping the jawbone intact and strengthening the tooth crown.

Like a natural tooth, the implant inserts into the patient’s jawbone. The bone and the implant create a permanent bond during a natural process called osseointegration. This fusing-together process may take up to six months. Once complete, the dentist can place a crown, bridge, or denture on top of the implant and abutment.

As a result of osseointegration, the jawbone is restored to its natural strength, patients can avoid facial sagging due to atrophy, the neighboring teeth are less likely to experience decay, and their restoration should never require replacement. None of these things can be said about other dental restorations!

2. Dental implants restore function.

Having just one missing tooth makes chewing and talking much more difficult. With dental implants, these functions are fully restored as if the natural teeth were never lost.

This is mostly due to the osseointegration process we explained earlier. As the titanium implant fuses with the jawbone, it creates a long-lasting, durable anchor that frees patients of food restrictions and speech impediments.

Unlike dentures, dental implants provide comfort and stability that keeps them from moving and shifting denture patients so often complain about. This problem isn’t just uncomfortable and painful, its also embarrassing. Dental implants allow patients to avoid these issues while experiencing the complete function of their new restorations.

3. The dental implant procedure is highly successful.

Past studies have found that the dental implant procedure is 90-95 percent successful when they are placed by a skilled dentist. The importance of choosing a dentist who has years of experience with dental implants cannot be stressed enough.

These dental professionals know a good candidate for implants when they see one, and they can spot any risk of complications that may occur during or after surgery and work to avoid it.

Though unforeseen complications do arise, they are few and far between. Most can be avoided when the patient takes proper care of the surgical site during the healing process.

Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation Today

To learn if you are a candidate for dental implant surgery, contact our team to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced and compassionate dentists. We can’t wait to help you gain a beautiful, fully functioning smile again!

Call (02) 6654-0650 to speak with one of our friendly dental team members.

Jul 29
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Woman smiling

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

      Jul 15
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      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

          Jul 09
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          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