Jan 17
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Healthy woman exercising

4 Ways a Dental Checkup Could Save Your Overall Health

By Dental Checkup No Comments

You know that it is important to schedule a regular dental checkup if you want to enjoy a bright and healthy smile. But did you know that routine checkups could also help to prevent major health issues? At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team is extremely thorough. During each six-month visit, your dentist or hygienist will evaluate your teeth and your soft tissues to look for signs of damage or inflammation. Using advanced technology, such as Orthopantomogram (OPG) x-rays, we can obtain a view of your entire mouth and a comprehensive understanding of your oral – and even physical – health. 

1. Catching Gum Disease Early Could Prevent Heart Disease

Periodontitis is a common inflammatory condition, with moderate to severe disease affecting an estimated 22.9% of Australian adults. Alarmingly, there is also a strong link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, meaning a large portion of the population could have a higher risk for heart attack and stroke. Scientists are still researching the connection between the two conditions. However, many believe that bacteria in the gums will eventually travel through the bloodstream to the heart. 

Each dental checkup also includes a check of your soft tissues. Your dentist or hygienist will look for any signs of gum inflammation or recession. If you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, timely treatment will certainly help to prevent widespread dental damage, and it may help to ward off life-threatening cardiovascular events, as well. 

2. Poor Oral Health Has Been Linked to Respiratory Disease

Cavities and periodontitis may also lead to respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia. These concerns can also worsen existing lung conditions, including asthma and COPD. In part, this is because you may inhale oral bacteria into your lungs. Furthermore, periodontal disease is a chronic type of inflammation, which can strain your immune system, making you more susceptible to other illnesses. 

3. A Dental Checkup Includes an Oral Cancer Screening 

Routine visits to our office also include oral cancer screenings, using our state-of-the-art VELscope® laser. Often, oral cancer causes visible swelling or white or red patches in the mouth. In the very earliest stages, however, these signs are often invisible, which is why oral cancer often goes undiagnosed until it has spread to other parts of the body. The VELscope laser may enable your practitioner to see soft tissue abnormalities that would otherwise go undetected. When oral cancer has not spread to other parts of the body, the survival rate is between 94 and 62%.

 

4. A Dental Checkup Can Make for a Healthier Pregnancy

If you are expecting a baby, you may wonder whether you should still visit the dentist. In fact, checkups, as well as cleans, are more essential than ever! When you are pregnant, you are at a greater risk for developing gum disease, and in turn, this can increase your risk for premature birth. Furthermore, when women have untreated cavities during pregnancy, their children are at a greater risk of developing cavities later in life. Though you should not have x-rays during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, dental checkups are not only permitted; they are essential.

Schedule Your Dental Checkup Today

Take steps to protect your smile and lifelong wellness. Schedule a dental checkup at our Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbor offices today. You can reach us online or call us at (02) 6653-1788.

Jan 14
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Child brushing her teeth

How to Make Children’s Dentistry Fun for Your Little One

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Dental visits are not just for adults; children’s dentistry, particularly preventative exams and cleans, can set the stage for lifelong oral health. As a parent, however, you know that trips to the dentist can be scary for young kids. It’s a new experience, and the unfamiliar sights and sounds can leave them feeling vulnerable. Fortunately, the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre has lots of experience treating young patients. With our compassion and sense of humor, we can help them feel comfortable. Plus, there are steps you can take as a family to make your child’s dental visit a pleasant and easy experience. 

1. Practice Good Dental Hygiene at Home

When kids aren’t used to dental treatment in any capacity, a visit to the dentist’s office will be very alarming. More importantly, good dental care at home can prevent serious damage to both baby and permanent adult teeth. Alarmingly, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that between 2012 and 2014, approximately 42% of children had developed cavities in their baby teeth!

Regular brushing and flossing is the best way to prevent decay. When babies first start teething, parents should wipe the teeth with a soft cloth or baby toothbrush. After 18 months, parents should begin using small amounts of fluoride toothpaste.

2. Visit the Dentist from a Young Age

Kids also should visit the dentist early on. Not only will this ensure optimal dental health. It will also make office visits a normal and expected occasion. We recommend that children see us when their first tooth comes in or when they reach age one.  

3. Talk about What to Expect

Before coming to our office, be sure to talk to your child about what they can expect. If you have been in the habit of regular brushing, you can explain that a dental clean is a lot like what they already do at home. Be sure to set a good example for your child. Let them know that, just like they have to visit the dentist, mom and dad have regular dental cleans, too!

4. Read Books about the Dentist

Books about the dentist can normalize the whole process! When children can identify with their favorite storybook heroes, the whole visit can seem like a grand adventure. Some good books include: 

  • Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip 
  • Going to the Dentist by Anne Civardi
  • Does a Tiger Go to the Dentist? by Harriet Ziefert 
  • The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan and Jan Berenstain

5. Choose the Right Practice for Children’s Dentistry

Of course, the best way to make dental visits easy for both you and your child is to choose the right pediatric dentist. Make sure you select someone who has experience working with kids and knows how to make the process fun for them. You should also find a practice that can provide a wide range of pediatric services. While exams and cleans are important, you also want to establish a relationship with a doctor who can provide more advanced procedures should they become necessary. 

Book a Children’s Dentistry Visit Today

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we love working with kids! Our gentle demeanor, smiles, and jokes make the experience fun for little ones. We serve families and patients of all ages in Coffs Harbor and Woolgoolga. To book an appointment with a member of our team contact us online or give us a call at (02) 6654-0650.

Jan 10
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A person clutches their jaws to indicate the presence of a TMD

Woolgoolga Emergency Dentist Explains the Main Causes of a Toothache

By Emergency Dentist No Comments

Whether it comes on suddenly or gradually increases in severity, a toothache can cause major discomfort. Emergency dentist Dr. Arpit Pathak, along with his team, sees patients with toothaches that develop for a variety of reasons. Treatments vary depending on the origin of the discomfort and any damage that may have occurred to the dental structure. Although our main goal is to prevent toothaches through dental cleans and other preventative services, when patients are already experiencing discomfort, we provide urgent care as soon as possible.

1. A Cavity

Tooth decay is the most common reason for a toothache. In fact, according to one study conducted by the Australian Research Centre for Population Oral Health (ARCPOH), over 30% of Australian adults suffer from untreated dental decay.

Cavities develop when plaque accumulates and erodes the outer enamel, creating tiny cracks and holes. In this initial phase, the damage will typically be undetectable, except to a trained eye. As the damage progresses, the plaque will work its way into the softer dentin below the enamel and eventually into the inner pulp of the tooth. At this point, the nerve can become irritated and inflamed, causing a toothache.

To treat a cavity, an emergency dentist will most commonly place a dental filling. Composite fillings match the natural color of teeth, and patients can receive them in one office visit.

2. A Dental Abscess

Untreated decay may lead to a dental abscess, or infected tooth. When this occurs, a small infected pocket will appear at the end of the dental root. It is important to have this condition treated as soon as possible, since infection can spread to the gums and even the jawbone. Abscesses can also develop due to untreated gum disease and may affect the gums only or both the gums and the tooth.

A toothache due to a dental abscess can be quite severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Sharp, shooting pain
  • Pain that spreads to the jawbone or ears
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold
  • Bad breath
  • A bad taste in the mouth
  • Swollen gums
  • A loose tooth

If the infection is located in the tooth itself, rather than the gums, an emergency dentist will typically recommend root canal therapy. The doctor will clean out the infected tissue, administer needed medication to remove any remaining bacteria, and place a dental crown. Root canal treatment allows many patients to retain even acutely damaged teeth.

3. A Broken or Cracked Tooth

Biting down on something hard or getting hit in the mouth can cause a tooth to break. Studies show that adults over age 40 are the most likely to experienced damaged teeth and that lower molars are the most frequently broken teeth.

An emergency dentist will provide various treatments, based on the extent and type of damage. If it is only a small chip, dental bonding may be enough to fill in the space and prevent additional harm. Larger cracks will typically require a dental crown, which will cover up the tooth, keep the crack from growing any larger, and restore tooth functionality. If the crack has reached all the way to the root, root canal therapy may be necessary.

4. A Loose or Damaged Existing Filling

A filling may come out or loosen for several reasons. Additional tooth decay around the restoration can weaken a filling. Tooth grinding or trauma, such as a blow or biting down on something hard, can also damage a filling, just like it can natural dental tissue. Finally, an old filling may simply be too compromised to protect a tooth. If a filling does come out, is important to seek treatment as soon as possible since there is now an entryway for bacteria.

Most frequently, a dentist will simply replace a loose or missing filling. In some cases, if new decay has damaged a tooth, root canal therapy or a dental crown may be required.

Receive Outstanding Urgent Care from a Woolgoolga Emergency Dentist

If you are experiencing a toothache or any other type of dental emergency, contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. We will schedule you for an appointment as soon as possible, and we can guide you in minimizing your discomfort while you are still at home. We proudly serve patients in Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbor, and the surrounding areas. You can call us at (02) 5645 6376 or send a message online.

Dec 22
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A large family smiles after receiving excellent care with dentists in Coffs Harbour

How to Find a Friendly Family Dentist Near Me

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Are you searching for a consistent, faithful “family dentist near me” that can do it all? Family-focused dentists undergo training to serve every stage of life in preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. Here are four measures that people can take to make sure that they choose a suitable family dentist.

1. Search “family dentist near me.”

“Near me” searches are location-based searches. When conducting “near me searches,” Google uses GPS (Global Positioning System) to deliver results that are closest to the searcher’s current location. Typing in “family dentist near me” is a simple phrase that can help you find dentists near you.

2. Check out photos of previous work.

Most of us have heard the cliche, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Yet, they may be worth even more than that. Humans are highly visual creatures, and we have observed the world around us since birth. In fact, our eyes work with our brain to decode and understand pictures. According to scientists at MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), half the human brain is devoted directly or indirectly to vision. Because humans are hardwired to use images to support understanding, photographs of previous work can help prospective patients understand:

  • What a dental team has already accomplished
  • Predict the quality and types of services a dentist can perform for them in the future

3. Visit the practice (virtually).

Before, families could visit dental offices to meet a few members of a dental team and feel the ambiance of a clinic. Even with current Public Health Orders and Restrictions, you can still learn more about a practice by visiting their website:

4. Consider online reviews.

With access to information at our fingertips, it’s wise to research others’ opinions and experiences before committing to a practice. Families should look for two things: positive and negative reviews:

  • Positive reviews are a sign that patients are satisfied with their care. Does the dentist offer comprehensive services? What extra steps does the family dentist take to improve the patient’s experience?
  • The key to understanding negative reviews is not necessarily concerned about what the patient complained about, and it’s even more critical to focus on how the dental practice handled the complaint. Were they understanding, polite, and professional? Did they solve the complaint swiftly?

After appointments, patients are encouraged to leave honest feedback on Google, Facebook, and more. Here are some sentiments that our patients had to say about Magic Smiles Woogoolga:

  • “Had three fillings today, and I don’t like needles, so I did it without the needles. The surgeons were so good and patient and fast. No needles weren’t a problem! My teeth feel amazing, and I have never liked a dentist until now!”
  • “Very knowledgeable and competent dentist.”
  • “Great Family and Specialist Dental Practice in Woolgoolga”
  • “Best dentist in my life. Thank you soooooo much!”
  • “Professional, friendly, and felt at ease as soon as I arrived. Great work, Dr. Arpit, and team!”

Woolgoogla Family Dentist Near Me

Searching for a dentist in Woolgoolga, NSW, and surrounding areas that can treat every family member? Look no further. Dr. Arpit Pathak is an exceptionally highly rated dentist that helps patients achieve healthier, more brilliant smiles. At Magic Smiles Dental & Implant Centre, Dr. Pathak offers extensive dental treatments in an attempt to meet most needs. To schedule an initial consultation with a Woolgoolga Family Dentist today:

Dec 20
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Woolgoolga dentist handles dentures

Woolgoolga Dentist Explains the Advantages and Disadvantages of Dentures

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Tooth loss and inadequate detention (fewer than 21 natural teeth) are health issues for Australians of all ages. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that 1 in 10 adults over 15 years have inadequate detention (and this rate of inadequacy increases with age). For this reason, some people choose dentures in pursuit of improving oral function and take years off their appearances. If you are considering tooth replacement methods, you may want to know how they can improve or hinder your lifestyle. In this blog, Dr. Pathak, a Woolgoolga dentist, clarifies the pros and cons of dentures.

Advantages of Dentures

1. There are many types of dentures.

Dental prosthetists design dentures to look and feel like natural teeth. In partnership with Harry Ramana (our skilled and knowledgeable denture prosthetist with decades of international experience), Dr. Pathak helps patients decide on the following types of dentures:

  • Partial dentures
  • Full dentures
  • Traditional dentures
  • Implant-supported dentures

2. Dentures are affordable.

According to a recent Australian Dental Association survey, the cost of complete maxillary dentures can range between $950 and $2,000 (with an average price of $1,350). Compared to dental implants, traditional dentures can be much more reasonable than dental implants (especially when multiple implants are required). 

It’s important to mention that dentists set their fees, and their prices reflect on a wide range of factors, including: 

  • Overhead costs
  • Location
  • Insurance coverage
  • Degree of difficulty needed for each service

3. Dentures are a straightforward tooth replacement method.

Dentures don’t require as much time or in-office appointments as other dental procedures (such as dental implants). Dentists and dental prosthetists work together to design, create, and complete dentures within a few weeks and typically two in-office visits:

  • Visit One: The dentist takes dental impressions.
  • Laboratory Time: The dentist sends the impressions to a lab for fabrication.
  • Visit Two: The dentist fits the fresh set of dentures to the patient’s mouth. If needed, adjustments are made.

4. Dentures provide added support.

The masseter muscle is a thick muscle located in the cheek that closes and opens the jaws during chewing. As time marches on, facial muscles weaken, and studies prove that tooth loss can expedite this process. An eye-opening study published by BMC Geriatrics revealed that tooth loss and masseter muscle thickness have a stronger relationship than aging and skeletal muscle mass index do.

For this reason, dentists sometimes recommend dentures to combat weak and sagging facial muscles. Dentures provide additional support to the jaw and oral muscles, which result in a more youthful, natural appearance in the jaw, mouth, and cheekbones.

Disadvantages of Dentures

1. Dentures can change the facial structure.

When the natural tooth root is missing, the jawbone is not stimulated, leading to bone atrophy. Bone atrophy shrinks the underlying bone and changes face shapes and supporting gum tissue. Furthermore, dentures must be refitted (or relined) every five to ten years as facial structures change.

However, it’s important to note that patients who choose implant-supported dentures do not need to worry about this problem as much. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that mimics a natural tooth root and saves the supporting jawbone.

2. Dentures require an adjustment period.

As patients adjust to dentures, they may experience onset discomfort, diet changes, and other difficulties. After 30 days, new denture wearers can expect to feel “normal” again and become accustomed to a foreign object in their mouth. 

Chat with a Woolgoolga Dentist about Dentures

Even though dentures are not a perfect tooth replacement option, their benefits outweigh the shortcomings. Start your improved smile journey with dentures today. Call (02) 6654-0650 or message us online to speak about dentures in Woolgoolga.

Dec 13
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3D illustration of how crowns for teeth sit on a dental implant

Coffs Harbour Dentist Explains the Truth About Dental Implants

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

When it comes to replacing the natural tooth root, dental implants are the gold standard. Despite popular belief, the dental implant is not the replacement tooth itself. Dental implants are surgically-secured devices that secure prosthetic teeth and abutments (connecting piece).

If you or a loved one are considering tooth removal and replacement, continue reading. In this blog, Dr. Arpit Pathak, a Coffs Harbour Dentist, clears up four more common myths and misconceptions about dental implants.

Myth #1: Dental implants are expensive.

According to Dental Costs Australia, dental implants range in cost based on how many teeth need to be replaced and the location of the office:

  • Single Dental Implants: $2,850 to $6,500
  • A Single Dental Implant Plus Bone Grafting: $4,000 to $11,500
  • All-on-4® Dental Implants: $15,000-$30,000

While it’s true that dental fillings, root canals, and other dental procedures are less expensive than dental implant surgery. Most dentists suggest other less costly and more conservative treatments if the tooth root can be saved. However, it’s important to note that this is not an option in certain circumstances.

Dental implants are the most effective method of replacing missing teeth, and the benefits are priceless. Implant-supported restorations:

  • Behave like natural teeth
  • Are intended to last a lifetime
  • Prevent facial bone loss
  • Stabilize neighboring teeth

Over time, these benefits add up and may lead to less time and money needed for maintenance. Investing in dental implants now can eliminate the need for future procedures and therapies in the future. 

Myth #2: Implant surgery is scary and painful.

Even though anxious attitudes towards dental practice settings are a global, prevalent problem, anxiety does not equate to reality. Before dental implant surgery, your dentist will:

  1. Explain what will happen during surgery and recovery.
  2. Administer local anesthesia and optional sedation to add comfort to the dental surgery.
  3. If necessary, prescribe pain management for post-procedure discomfort

Myth #3: Dental implants require additional maintenance.

Indeed, dental implant patients must take additional precautions during healing (such as diet changes). However, implant-supported restoration maintenance after recovery is similar to typical dental care routines.

Dental implants are not as delicate as you may think, and a key component of successful implantation is successful osseointegration. Osseointegration involves bonding the load-bearing implant with the surrounding bone, which allows the implant the next best thing to a natural tooth root.

After successful osseointegration, patients with dental implants are encouraged to:

  • Brush and floss teeth daily
  • Visit the dentist for routine exams and professional cleanings every six months

When practiced consistently, dental hygiene habits prevent the development of tooth decay and gum disease. As a bonus, dental restorations are not susceptible to cavities and other issues like natural teeth.

Myth #4: Dental implants do not work for people with dentures.

If you are missing an entire row or set of teeth, consider All-on-4 dental implants. All-on-4 implants can replace the need for traditional dentures and bone grafts, using just four dental implants to support a full arch. 

Learn More About Dental Implants with a Coffs Harbour Dentist

At Magic Smiles Dental Implant Centre, Dr. Pathak helps patients decide if dental implants are the best option for each one-of-a-kind smile. Save your smile and act now. Schedule a consultation for dental implants with our Coffs Harbour Dentist by:

Dec 06
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Smiling woman holding Invisalign tray

How Does Invisalign Work: The Complete Guide

By Invisalign No Comments

The chances are that you’ve heard about Invisalign® and its reputation as an alternative to traditional braces to straighten teeth. Even though Invisalign has become a household name in dentistry, you may not know much about it. Don’t fret. This guide answers questions such as, “how does Invisalign work?” and more.

1. How does Invisalign work?

The Invisalign system consists of a series of transparent trays created from BPA-free plastic, molded to fit the wearer’s mouth. Each prescribed tray gently shifts the teeth into the desired position using gentle pressure (similar to traditional braces). For Invisalign to work, it’s essential to wear the trays as prescribed (typically 20 to 22 hours per day). Trays can be taken off to eat, brush, and floss. As the treatment continues, new trays are needed every few weeks. This means that more frequent dental visits are required so that dentists can ensure that treatment is on track and to hand out new trays.

2. How long is the treatment process?

An exciting aspect of clear aligner therapy is that it can be comparably shorter than traditional braces. According to a comparative study evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency between conventional fixed appliances and clear aligners, Invisalign patients finished treatment faster than those with fixed appliances. However, we hypothesize that the shorter treatment time in this study may be because Invisalign is generally suited for patients with less complicated alignment cases.

Before committing to extensive treatments, patients commonly ask how often ask how long it takes to see results. In many cases, patients see noticeable changes within two to three months. While total treatment time varies from person to person, patients typically complete their treatment in 12 to 18 months on average. It’s important to note that more uncomplicated cases tend to have shorter treatment times than more complex ones.

3. Does Invisalign work for everyone?

To date, 11 million people and counting have straightened their teeth with Invisalign, but not everyone qualifies for this treatment. Invisalign is ideal for teens and adults with minor to moderate misalignment and malocclusion, including:

  • Closing gaps or spaces
  • Correcting crooked or crowded teeth
  • Aligning overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites

While clear aligner technology is constantly updating, most dentists do not recommend Invisalign for young children or patients with severe malocclusion (bad bite). Why?

  • Children’s teeth are complex and still developing, and for this reason, dentists do not commonly suggest clear aligner treatment.
  • More complex cases may require more than gentle pressure to move teeth into perfect alignment. Although Invisalign now offers SmartForce attachments for more complex movement, traditional braces are still superior at correcting more complicated cases.

However, the most effective way to know which orthodontic treatment will be most effective for your unique case is to schedule an in-person appointment with a dentist.

Book a Consultation for Invisalign Right Now

Consider scheduling an Invisalign consultation if you are interested in undergoing orthodontic treatment while embracing the freedom to:

  • Eat what you want
  • Clean your teeth more thoroughly
  • Straighten your teeth with discretion

Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre can answer your questions and see if Invisalign is a suitable treatment for your needs. Start your straight smile journey by contacting us online or calling us at one of our three locations in New South Wales:

  • Woolgoolga (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour (02) 5645 6375
Nov 23
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A person rests their chin on their hands and smiles widely to reveal the benefits of routine oral hygiene

Teeth Whitening in Woolgoolga: Preparation, Procedure, and Results

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

When it comes to teeth whitening, Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre in Woolgoolga believes in using the best products on the market. We provide popular and trusted Philips Zoom teeth-whitening treatments. Zoom products allow our patients to receive treatments either in our Woolgoolga dental office or in the comfort of their own home. 

The decision to receive in-office or take-home whitening treatments is completely up to our patients, but here are a couple of things to consider:

  • Patients expecting rapid results benefit most from in-office treatments.
  • At-home treatments take longer to achieve a patient’s desired shade, but the convenience allows patients to whiten their teeth wherever or whenever they want.  

Choosing the Right Teeth-Whitening Method for You

Knowing the available in-office and take-home Zoom options at our Woolgoolga dental centre helps patients determine which method is best for them. 

In-office teeth whitening systems include:

  • Philips Zoom QuickPro. This procedure takes 30 minutes and is best for patients who want rapid results.
  • Philips Zoom Whitespeed. This is a 45-minute procedure using a LED blue light to enhance whitening results. This procedure is recommended for patients looking for a dramatically whiter smile.

Take-home teeth whitening systems include:

  • Philips Zoom DayWhite. This is a kit which includes custom-made trays and a whitening solution based on the patient’s specific needs. The trays are worn for 30 minutes twice a day for 2 weeks.
  • Philips Zoom NiteWhite. Similar to Zoom DayWhite, this is a whitening kit that includes bespoke trays and a customized whitening solution. Zoom NiteWhite trays are worn overnight (or for at least 2-4 hours daily) for 2 weeks.

Preparation

Whether patients choose to whiten their teeth at our Woolgoolga dental centre or at home, it’s important to prepare for the whitening process. Dentists recommend that patients receive a thorough, professional dental cleaning before applying Zoom teeth-whitening products. A dental cleaning helps prepare the surface of the teeth for optimal results. 

Procedure

After discussing teeth-whitening options with Dr. Pathak and properly preparing the teeth, it’s time to work on getting a brighter, whiter smile. Here’s what patients can expect from their chosen teeth-whitening method:

In-office teeth whitening:

Philips Zoom QuickPro 

  • A thin layer of quick-drying varnish is applied to each tooth. 
  • Next, a protective sealant is applied over the varnish. 
  • After 30 minutes, the patient brushes off the varnish and sealant.
  • Patients are free to leave the office immediately after application. 

Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed

  • A layer of whitening gel is applied to the teeth. 
  • Next, a LED lamp is used to enhance the effects of the whitening product. 
  • The gel and light process is repeated 3 times. 
  • Afterward, a protective gel is applied to the teeth to shield the enamel and diminish sensitivity. 
  • Before leaving the office, Dr. Pathak will supply patients with a take-home whitening kit and customized trays so they can conduct touch-ups at home.

At-home teeth whitening:

Philips Zoom DayWhite and NiteWhite

    • Brush and floss teeth thoroughly to remove plaque.
    • Carefully place a small drop of whitening gel into each tooth impression in the customized tray. 
    • Place the tray gently over the teeth.
    • Remove the tray after the prescribed time.
    • Gently wash the tray in cold water.
    • Brush teeth to remove the leftover whitening gel.

Brilliant Results

One treatment of Philips Zoom QuickPro delivers a smile that is up to 4 times brighter. Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed results in teeth that are up to 8 shades whiter after a single treatment. After 2 weeks, patients using Philips Zoom DayWhite or Philips Zoom NiteWhite will enjoy noticeably whiter, brighter smiles. 

Schedule a Consultation

Not sure which Zoom teeth-whitening method is best for you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Pathak and his Woolgoolga dental team today. Call us at +61423191324 or contact us online.

Nov 12
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graphic of the stages of periodontal disease

How to Prevent, Reverse, and Manage Periodontal Disease

By Oral Health No Comments

Although periodontal (gum) disease is largely preventable, it is highly prevalent. It often starts as swollen, bleeding gums but can develop into tooth loss as a worst-case scenario. Check out this treatment guide to keeping gums healthy.

1. Regular Preventive Care

A curious conundrum about gum disease is that it often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. Therefore, dental cleanings and exams every six months have become the foundation of periodontal disease prevention. Even though it is important to brush, floss, and rinse with a mouthwash, dental hygienists use specialized tools to clean the mouth thoroughly. If plaque hardens into gum disease-causing tartar, only a dental hygienist can remove it.

2. Invisalign®

Crowded or misaligned teeth can make it challenging for patients to clean their teeth properly. When the teeth are overcrowded, food and germs are more likely to become trapped between the teeth and along the gumline. Consider Invisalign if you want to straighten your teeth and maintain proper oral hygiene simultaneously. Studies support that patients who pick Invisalign over fixed oral appliances have healthier gums.

3. Scaling and Root Planing

As periodontal disease develops, the gums form spaces (or pockets) and drag the gum tissue away from the teeth. Over time, bacteria, plaque, tartar, and food particles fill these gum pockets, which causes them to deepen and become a breeding ground for bacteria and infection.

Scaling and root planing is a trusted method that dentists use to:

  • Scaling: Remove plaque and tartar below the gumline
  • Planing: Level out the tooth root (which helps the gums fasten to the tooth)

4. Laser Gum Contouring

Gingival hyperplasia (gum overgrowth) is a direct result of inflammation and transpires when the gum tissues react aggressively to irritants, such as plaque and tartar. While everyone has their preferences, many people prefer reducing the appearance of a “gummy smile.”

Traditionally, gum contouring involves scalpels and sutures. Thanks to contemporary technology, some practices offer laser gum contouring. With this safe, modern method, a laser gently removes excess gingival tissue and Immediately cauterizes the wound so that patients experience minimal bleeding and recovery time. Also, removing excess gum tissue has cosmetic and social advantages. The Journal of Periodontology published a study that suggests that people perceive others with less gummy smiles as more attractive, friendly, trustworthy, intelligent, and self-confident.

It’s necessary to note that after the gum tissue increases, gum recession often follows. When the gums recede, more intensive gum surgery is needed.

5. Prosthetic Dentistry and Dental Implants

If you have experienced tooth loss from gum disease, you’re not alone. Australian adults aged 15 years and older had an average of 4.4 teeth missing as a result of tooth decay and periodontal disease. Missing teeth may decrease quality of life, but there is a wide range of treatments that help fill the void:

  • Prosthetic dental appliances: People have used dental crowns, bridges, and dentures to replace missing teeth for centuries. Today, dental prosthetics are natural-looking and functional.
  • Dental implants: Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth for dental replacement. They act as a natural tooth root and are a secure, bone-saving, and aesthetically-pleasing option. 

Our Coffs Harbor Dentist Helps Patients with Periodontal Disease

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our dedicated team offers several options to keep your gums as healthy as possible. Prevent periodontal disease by scheduling a dental appointment with us by calling (02) 5645 6376 or messaging us online right now.

Nov 05
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modern dentist's office

Meet Our Team!

By Woolgoogla and Coffs Harbour Dentist No Comments

Are you looking for comprehensive dental services for the entire family in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW? Look no further. At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our talented team of cheerful and conscientious dental professionals is eager to go the extra mile for your family’s smiles. Continue reading to meet our knowledgable, ethical general dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeon, and denture prosthetist.

Dr. Arpit Pathak, General Dentist

With a widespread, well-rounded background in public health, research, and dentistry, Dr. Pathak cares for our patients by applying sophisticated dentistry techniques and technology.

Dr. Pathak speaks Hindi (as well as English).

Dr. Devendra Rao, General Dentist

After decades of lecturing and working as a general dentist in both the private and public sectors, Dr. Devendra Rao has settled in our local community to provide patient care. Dr. Rao stays family with contemporary treatment, equipment, and materials by attending conferences, hands-on workshops, personal study, and visiting consultants.

Dr. Rao speaks Hindi (as well as English).

Dr. Aashish Kaphle, General Dentist

With over a decade of experience, Dr. Aashish Kaphle offers all aspects of general dentistry, particularly interested in minor oral surgery and root canal treatments. Dr. Kaphle finds passion in understanding the most advanced progressions in general dentistry, orthodontics, and cosmetic dentistry. 

Dr. Kaphle speaks Hindi and Nepali (as well as English).

Dr. Tiffany Huang, Orthodontist

Dr. Tiffany Huang is responsible for helping our patients obtain their best smiles. Over the past 24 years, she has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience, as well as an outstanding education:

  • Bachelor of Science (Honours): The University of Western Australia
  • Bachelor of Dentistry: The University of Sydney

After receiving two bachelor’s degrees, she took a step further and accomplished a double doctorate from the University of Sydney:

  • Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Orthodontics)
  • Expertise in Orthodontic Research (Ph.D.)

Today, she is enthusiastic and dedicated to treating patients of all ages with approachability and ethics.

Dr. Huang speaks Hokkien and Mandarin (as well as English).

Dr. Mohammed Mansour, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

With a background in ENT, Dr. Mohammed Mansour extended his education to chase his passion: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Since graduating from Sydney University with an Honours Degree, being awarded the prize for competency, and completing maxillofacial specialist training, Dr. Mansour performs all aspects of oral and maxillofacial surgery and educates dentists-in-training and general dentists about his specialty.

Harry Ramana, Denture Prosthetist 

With extensive experience in American, Canadian, and Australian dental labs, Harry Ramana provides all dentures services for our patients. In 2008, Ramana completed his training in dental technology and continued his courses at Sydney Dental Hospital four years later to become a certified dental prosthetist. 

Ramana works alongside our dentists to: 

  • Take impressions for patients
  • Fabricate brand new full and partial dentures
  • Repair and reline existing dentures to extend their lifespan.

To stay on top of his craft, Harry Ramana continues his education through dental conferences.

Meet our Dentists in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our family of dental professionals are here to help your own family achieve a healthier, more radiant smile. To meet with our dedicated team, contact us online or call one of our many New South Wales offices:

  • Coffs Harbour: (02) 6652-3242
  • Woolgoolga: (02) 6654-0650