Oct 31
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image of small holes and stains in teeth which are cavities symptoms

Cavities Symptoms & Treatments

By Oral Health No Comments

Cavities are holes in the teeth that form from tooth decay. Although prevalence varies across Australian states and territories, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimates that 42% of children between the ages of 5 and 10 have cavities in their baby teeth. Even though many people associate cavities as a childhood health obstacle, it’s a more prevalent problem in adults. Tooth decay affects over 90% of the Australian adult population. 

Because of the widespread prevalence, you may be wondering, “How can I tell if I have a cavity? How do dentists treat cavities?” Below, we answer these questions and more.

What are the common symptoms of cavities?

Plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) constantly forms on the teeth. When people eat or drink foods with sugar or carbohydrates, they feed the oral bacteria in plaque. Consequently, the bacteria excrete acids that destroy the tooth enamel (the hard surface of the teeth). If not removed, the enamel breaks down and forms holes in the teeth (cavities).

If you believe that you or your loved one may have tooth decay, below are three common cavity symptoms to keep an eye out for:

1. Discomfort

Even though cavities do not usually cause pain until they are deep enough to affect the underlying nerves and tissues, a toothache is one of the most apparent symptoms. Discomfort can fluctuate from mild to intolerable. Also, toothaches can come abruptly, continuously, or promptly when biting, chewing, or eating.

2. Sensitivity

Below the enamel, the dentin has two roles (1) to reinforce the tooth’s enamel and (2) to protect the pulp chamber that houses the blood vessels and nerves deep inside the tooth. As the enamel erodes, the dentin is more exposed, and the dental nerves are more stimulated. As a result, sensitivity may occur after consuming food and drinks that are too hot, cold, acidic, sweet, or sticky.

3. Enamel Changes

As cavity-causing bacteria chemically changes the tooth, there may be changes of appearance:

  • Staining: White, brown, or black spots are the beginning visual signs of tooth decay. As the spots worsen, they become darker (brown or black) and more extensive.
  • Holes and pits: As staining advances, it can change into a hole or pit in the tooth. They may be noticeable by sight or felt when the tongue is run over the surface of the teeth. Sometimes, they may be difficult to see or feel if they are in ridges on the molars (the back of the mouth) or between the teeth.

How do dentists treat cavities?

While cavities may start small and unnoticeable, they rapidly expand when left untreated. After a dentist removes the decayed tissues, they may restore the tooth with a dental filling or crown.

If you are experiencing cavities symptoms, contact us now.

Many people are unaware of when a cavity forms. However, a dentist can identify tooth decay before it causes alarming symptoms that lead to more severe challenges with regular check-ups. At Magic Smiles Dental, Dr. Arpit Pathak offers a wide range of treatments to prevent and heal tooth decay for patients of all ages.

If you or your loved one are experiencing any of the listed cavity symptoms, we advise that you seek care immediately. The sooner that you seek care, the greater your odds are at preventing tooth decay progression. To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call one of our many New South Wales locations:

  • Woolgoolga: (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour: (02) 6652-3242
Oct 21
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Tooth Crown Cost by Type

Tooth Crown Cost Based On Type

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Dental crowns are caps that are placed over a damaged tooth. They are an effective way to repair a broken or worn tooth and restore a natural-looking, healthy smile. The cost of a dental crown depends on many factors including the extent of damage to the tooth being repaired, the size of the crown needed, and which tooth it is that requires the crown. Perhaps the largest factor in determining the cost of a dental crown is the material it is made from.  

Common Types of Dental Crowns and Their Costs

1. Zirconia. Zirconia crowns are widely regarded as the best material for dental crowns on the market. They are made from zirconium dioxide, a durable metal closely related to titanium. The major advantage of Zirconia implants is their strength. They do not chip or fracture as easily as porcelain or ceramic crowns. They are also considered to be biocompatible because they integrate well with the gums and other teeth.

Because of these advantages, Zirconia crowns can be quite pricey. They range in price from $1,000 to $2,500 per crown. 

2. Ceramic crowns. The major advantage to crowns constructed of ceramic is that because they are made of porcelain they match almost identically to the look and translucency of natural teeth. Because of these aesthetic advantages, ceramic crowns are usually used as crowns for front teeth.

The average cost of a ceramic crown can range from $800 to $3,000.

3. Metal crowns. There are several variations of metal crowns. The metals most often used to construct metal crowns are gold and copper. Other types of crowns require the removal of natural tooth structure before placement. Metal crowns are an attractive alternative because they require the least amount of natural tooth removal. Due to their color, however, metal crowns stand out the most and so are often used on rear teeth.

The average cost of a gold crown is $600 to $2,500.

4. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. As the name implies, these types of crowns are constructed from a combination of porcelain and metal. Porcelain fuses with metal during the heating process to create a bond. This creates a crown that is stronger than regular porcelain because it has a large concentration of metal, but one that closely matches the look of natural teeth because of the color characteristics of porcelain. This unique combination of benefits makes porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns an attractive option.

The average cost of a porcelain-fused-to metal crown is $500 to $1,500.

5. Resin crowns. Because resin is a thinner material, crowns made from it tend to be more fragile than crowns made of either metal or porcelain. They are more affordable than metal or ceramic crowns, but because they are more prone to fracture and wear, they are not recommended very often by dentists. Resin crowns are most often used on baby teeth rather than adult or permanent teeth.

The average cost of a resin crown is $600 to $1,300.

6. Stainless steel crowns. Crowns made from stainless steel are usually used as temporary ones while a permanent crown is being created. Like crowns made from metal, they are very durable but do not blend in well with natural tooth color.

The average cost of a stainless steel crown is $300 to $500 per tooth.

Superior Dental Crown Treatment in Coffs Harbour

Regardless of your needs or budget, Dr. Pathak and the expert team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Center can design quality dental crown treatment for you. Call (02) 6652-3242

or schedule an appointment online today to begin your consultation.

Oct 13
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Damaged Dental Bridge: Can it be repaired?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Dental bridges are an effective and popular  treatment for missing teeth. While a bridge can last for decades, there are several reasons why a patient may have a damaged dental bridge: 

  • Tooth movement caused by gum disease or other oral health factors
  • Chewing on ice and other hard objects
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Trauma 

So, what should you do if you have a damaged dental bridge? And how can you avoid damage in the first place? We’ve got the answers! 

Signs of a Damaged Dental Bridge

The most obvious way to know there is a problem is if the bridge falls off. However, the signs of a damaged dental bridge aren’t always so obvious. 

Other indicators of a dental bridge that needs repair include: 

  • Looseness or movement
  • Rough or sharp spots that irritate or cut the tongue
  • Pain, redness, or sensitivity around the bridge
  • A crack in the supporting tooth 

Repair vs Replace

The possibility of repairing a damaged bridge really depends on what the damage is and what it was caused by. In some cases, the bridge can be repaired, but in others, it must be replaced. 

Repairing a Damaged Dental Bridge

Sometimes a small chip or crack in a crown can be fixed with dental bonding materials. Loose bridges can be recemented in place as long as there are no additional issues related to the teeth. 

Replacing a Dental Bridge

If the abutment teeth are damaged, the dentist will likely need to remove the bridge to evaluate and treat the teeth.  If the damage is not too significant, the teeth can be fixed and the bridge replaced. 

Abutment teeth that are too decayed or damaged may not be able to hold a dental bridge any longer. In this case, a dental implant may be recommended to replace the missing tooth or teeth. 

How to Avoid a Damaged Dental Bridge

The team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre knows that the best way to repair a bridge is to not damage it in the first place. You can avoid common dental bridge problems by: 

  • Proper cleaning and care: Patients with bridges need to brush their bridge and teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled brush. Additionally, they need to floss daily, sometimes using a waterpik or floss threader to get under the bridge and remove food and plaque. Regular dental cleanings and checkups allow your dentist to inspect and stay ahead of any potential problems. 
  • Avoiding foods that may damage the bridge: Patients with bridges should be careful to avoid anything that could damage the porcelain exterior of their bridges. These foods include hard nuts, hard candies, popcorn, sugary treats, or sticky caramels. Also, avoid chewing ice.
  • Use your teeth as intended: Your teeth should not be used to tear, cut, or hold anything other than food in your mouth. Using your teeth to try to open a bottle can chip and damage teeth or your bridge.

Dental Bridge Repair in Woolgoolga

Regardless of how or why it was damaged, it is important to get a damaged bridge repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Damaged bridges may not cause pain or discomfort at first, but damage can expose the bridge and surrounding teeth to bacteria and decay causing more problems over time. 

If you are worried about damage or decay to your dental bridge, contact our dental team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre at (02) 6654-0650

 

Oct 10
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How to Find the Best “Dentist Near Me” in Australia

By Woolgoogla and Coffs Harbour Dentist No Comments

With hundreds of local options available, finding the right dentist can be a daunting task. Conducting an online search for “dentist near me” might yield a list of dentists in your immediate area. But how should those choices be evaluated? While every patient’s needs are as unique as they are, there are some general guidelines that can prove helpful when it comes to choosing a new dentist.

1. Dental Association Membership

Members of the Australian Dental Association must follow strict protocols defined by the association in order to maintain their membership. Every dentist that is accredited by the association must follow the Advisory Opinions, the Principles of Ethics, and the Professional Code of Conduct.

Choosing a dental professional that is a member of the ADA ensures a patient will be provided a high standard of care. 

2. Experience

Before choosing a dentist, proper research should be conducted into the dentist’s experience and expertise. They may be the most important criteria for evaluating a potential dental professional.

Remember that expertise is not defined by one type of experience or another. Rather, research should be done into the type of procedure a patient is looking to have performed. A dentist that specializes in orthodontics will have different experiences than one who specializes in periodontitis (gum disease). Both of them will have different expertise still than a dentist who specializes in dental implants. Dentistry is a vast discipline and the type of dental experience sought should match with the type of oral care the patient needs.

3. Modern Equipment

Dentistry is constantly evolving, and technological advancements are consistently being made. An expert dentist has the highest quality equipment and latest technology available to serve patients. Patients should consider paying a visit to the clinic and asking about the type of equipment available and other amenities the dentist has on-site.

4. Patient Testimonials

One of the most effective ways to find a good dentist is by checking out what other patients are saying. Verified patient testimonials give great insight into a dental practice. Reading website testimonials and reviews can tell a new patient a lot about the dentist, their customer service, their office, staff, and most importantly, the quality of their work.

“Best dentist in my life. Thank you soooooo much!!” and “Fantastic experience, totally recommend gentle kind and affordable,” are examples of just two of the 5-star reviews recently left for Dr. Arpit Pathak and the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre.

5. Professional Referrals

Asking a family physician or a local pharmacist for input on finding a dental professional can be fruitful. Doctors and pharmacists deal with local dentists on a regular basis, and also with their patients. Quite often, they get feedback from those patients. Chances are doctors and pharmacists will have a good sense of the best dentists in the area.

6. Cost and Insurance

Affordability certainly plays a role in the dentist chosen. A large part of the affordability is whether the dental professional chosen accepts the insurance card a patient carries. Patients should consider comparing the cost of several clinics to ensure the dental professional they choose is cost-effective.

High-Quality Dental Care in Coffs Harbour

Magic Smiles is a community-focused dental facility that has been providing high-quality dental care to patients for the past three decades. Our mission is to provide compassionate and individualized dental care that larger facilities cannot match. Dr. Pathak and the team invite you to see what makes them special. Call any of our three convenient locations: 

  1. Coffs Harbour – (02) 6652-3242 
  2. Woolgoolga – (02) 6654-0650) 

 Or schedule a consultation online today. 

Sep 29
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3D graphic of dental implant

Dental Implants vs. Dentures (Which option is better?)

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

There are a few options when replacing one or more teeth, including dental implants and removable dentures. Ultimately, dentures and implant-supported prostheses serve similar purposes:

  • Supporting facial muscles
  • Stabilizing remaining teeth
  • Biting and chewing foods
  • Improving speech and aesthetics

However, there are significant differences between dental implants and dentures. Choosing the most suitable tooth-replacement solution depends on bone health and lifestyle. Here are four factors to consider before choosing between dental implants or dentures:

1. Jaw Bone Density

A healthy, strong jawbone continuously destroys and rebuilds itself thanks to natural chewing forces. Consequently, when a tooth is lost or extracted, chewing forces become unbalanced, and the bone cannot rebuild itself at the rate it is being destroyed. During the first year after tooth loss or extraction, bone loss is anticipated and will continue over time.

Dental implants combat bone atrophy by acting as the natural tooth root. According to a clinical trial published by the British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the clear benefit that dentures retained with implants have over traditional dentures is that they protect against jawbone resorption, which raised the satisfaction rate of patients.

Unlike dental implants, dentures do not mimic the natural tooth root. Nothing triggers mineral delivery to the jaw so that the jawbone will become brittle and weak over time. Since dentures are not anchored in the jaw, bone atrophy is bound to happen.

2. Stability

During dental implant recovery, the bone fuses to the dental implant. This phenomenon is called osseointegration and creates a more stable foundation for prosthetic teeth. Once osseointegration occurs, the implant becomes a fully functioning part of the mouth and can withstand normal chewing forces.

Nevertheless, a chief complaint about dentures is that they tend to move, which can cause ulcers (or sores) to form on the gums.

3. Maintenance

People care for their dental implants similarly to their natural teeth:

  • Twice daily brushing and flossing
  • Twice annual dental checkups

Comparatively, dentures require greater daily maintenance. For example, dentures should be removed and cleaned after meals. Additionally, they must be removed and soaked in water or a cleaning solution overnight.

4. Lifespan

Dental implants are respected as a long-term tooth replacement option. Researchers report that implants have high success rates—in the high 80 to high 90 percentile. It’s important to note that the prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture must be replaced if worn down or damaged.

Generally speaking, dentures can last for a decade or more before replacement. However, the risk of breakage and damage increases with denture age. Professional relining and repairs can help extend the lifespan of dentures. Also, removable dentures change your bite over time, so refitting is necessary.  

Learn More About Dental Implants in Coffs Harbour, NSW

In a nutshell, dental implants and dentures are both suitable options to replace teeth. However, dental implants are superior in:

  • Preventing bone atrophy
  • Steadiness
  • Care
  • Longevity

While both tooth-replacement options have pros and cons, it’s essential to discuss your options in detail with a knowledgeable dentist. Our team educates patients about the benefits of both treatments and helps them decide if dental implants are appropriate for them. Contact us online or call us at (02) 6652-3242 to schedule a free consultation at Magic Smiles Dental at your earliest convenience. 

 

Sep 23
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smiling baby with two baby teeth

Ask a Coffs Harbour Dentist: Why are baby teeth important?

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Many parents wonder why their children’s baby teeth are important since those teeth will eventually fall out. Even though baby (or primary) teeth are replaced with adult teeth, primary teeth are still important and directly impact your child’s development and health.

1. Jaw Development and Dental Alignment

Baby teeth hold space in your child’s jaw as permanent, adult teeth grow underneath the gums. After the baby teeth fall out, their position helps guide the adult teeth into place. They aid in developing jawbones and facial muscles that support children’s faces to look more balanced and functional. Also, straight teeth are easier to clean because they have fewer nooks and crannies that can trap disease-causing bacteria and food particles. 

2. Cavities and Gum Disease

Baby teeth must be taken care of with regular dental exams, low sugar and carb diet, and at-home oral hygiene routines. These practices help prevent the development of gum disease by reducing plaque (a sticky bacterial film). Bacteria overgrowth, poor oral hygiene diets, and high in sugars and starches put children at risk for dental decay and gum infections.

Cavities

In March 2021, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported that around 4 in 10 Australian children aged 5-10 experienced cavities in their baby teeth. Cavities are a dental infection that enlarges over several months or years and may cause a need for baby root canals and crowns. Additionally, cavities can cause discomfort and swelling.

Gum Disease

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and affects 21.8% of Australian children. Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. Over time, oral infection migrates to the gums and causes inflammation, swelling, and bleeding. Gingivitis is treatable and reversible with professional dental cleanings and efficient, consistent brushing and flossing.

3. Eating

Digestive System

The first step of digestion begins in the mouth. Chewing foods thoroughly breaks up foods so that they can be digested easier. Damaged teeth and dental pain can make it more challenging to chew. When children swallow their food too quickly and without chewing correctly, they risk choking and extending the digestion process.

Nutrition

Also, a versatile, nourishing diet is filled with a cornucopia of textures and flavors. Unfortunately, chewy, coarse foods can be difficult to bite and chew if the teeth feel sore. Also, spicy, acidic foods can aggravate toothaches. When kids restrict their diets due to dental pain, it can be more challenging to achieve their nutritional goals and become picky eaters.

4. Speaking

When the teeth don’t align properly, kids have a higher risk of developing speech problems. Again, baby teeth guide teeth into their permanent position. Overbite, overcrowding, and gapped teeth can create various speech problems, including lisping, whistling sounds, and general distortion of letter sounds. Speech impediments can make it more difficult for others to understand them.

Additionally, self-esteem in children is associated with how they view themselves, competence, and acceptance. When kids don’t feel confident in their voice, they may consider themselves less capable than their peers.

Schedule a Children’s Dentistry Visit in Coffs Harbor

Starting your infant off with good oral care can help protect their teeth for the rest of their life. Dr. Arpit Pathak supports parents in taking care of their children’s teeth with checkups, cleanings, patient education, and preventative treatments. Schedule your child’s first dental exam with an experienced Coffs Harbor dentist by calling (02) 6652-3242 or messaging us online at your earliest convenience.

Sep 10
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Image of bleeding and inflamed gums from gum disease

5 Myths About Gum Disease

By Oral Health No Comments

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection in the mouth that can lead to tooth loss and damage systemic, overall health. Periodontal diseases and conditions are a considerable health crisis in the Australian population, with 3 out of 10 Australian adults having moderate to severe periodontitis.

Even more alarming is that many people don’t even realize that they have gum disease due to common misconceptions. 

In this blog, we debunk five common myths about gum disease to help you better understand what it is, how it develops, and possible treatments. 

1. “My gums don’t hurt.”

Remarkably, periodontal disease isn’t typically painful and is often referred to as a “silent” disease. Usually, by the time you feel pain from periodontal conditions, the infection has spread and is too severe to be reversed.

Here are some early signs to be aware of:

  • Sensitive, bleeding, or receding gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Discomfort when chewing

2. “Periodontal disease only affects the mouth.”

Periodontal disease starts in the gums, but the infection can get into the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. Researchers at Harvard University note that people with periodontal disease have a higher risk of:

  • Diabetes
  • Chronic respiratory disease
  • Dementia
  • Pregnancy complications

How is gum disease connected to some chronic health issues? Inflammation plays a role in all of these conditions. For example, successfully treating diabetes reduces the severity of periodontitis (and vice versa). By treating the inflammation, symptoms of these systematic conditions (including periodontal disease) lessen.

3. “I brush and floss every day to prevent periodontal disease.”

Consistent, thorough at-home oral hygiene routines are crucial for managing periodontal disease. Nonetheless, just brushing and flossing can’t always prevent gum infections from developing. Regardless of how good you’re brushing or flossing, genetics, smoking, and some systematic conditions can increase the possibility of gum disease emerging.

Additionally, when gum infections are left untreated, “pockets” start to form around each tooth and deepen as the disease progresses. Once the pocket is deeper than 4mm, a toothbrush and floss cannot reach the bacteria, plaque, and tartar beneath the gums. In this instance, scaling and root planing (or deep dental cleaning) treats this stage of the disease. If too much damage is done, restorative measures, like gum grafts, are needed. 

4. “I’ve never had a cavity, so I can’t have gum disease.”

If you’re fortunate enough to have never experienced tooth decay, you could still possibly develop periodontal disease. Oral bacteria cause both cavities and gum disease; however, different types of bacteria cause both of these conditions:

  • Porphyromonas gingivalis causes gum disease.
  • Streptococcus mutans causes cavities.

Unfortunately, otherwise healthy teeth can still become loose and fall out if advanced periodontal disease destroys the supporting gum tissue and underlying jawbone.

5. “Gum disease can be cured.”

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease, is often reversible with early intervention. With regular cleanings and checkups, a dentist can help identify and reverse the early signs of gingivitis. However, as the disease progresses to periodontitis, it can only be treated and not cured. Additional professional cleanings, treatments, and possibly surgery may be necessary to help alleviate advanced symptoms.

Schedule an Appointment

Periodontal disease is a leading cause of missing teeth in people over the age of 15. Prevention and early intervention are key.

Dr. Pathak monitors gum health with professional dental cleanings and exams. If you suspect that you may have gum disease, or if you simply want to prevent it, call (02) 6654-0650 or message us online to schedule an appointment at our Woolgoolga, NSW location.

Sep 10
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woman placing Invisalign aligners in mouth

Is Invisalign worth the cost? 

By Invisalign No Comments

How much would you pay to have a beautiful smile for the rest of your life? It’s hard to put a price tag on that. However, we understand that patients must consider their budget before moving forward with orthodontic treatment.

Asking whether or not Invisalign® is worth the cost implies that Invisalign clear aligners are more expensive than traditional braces. That isn’t always the case. Depending on your alignment issues, clear aligners could be the same price as metal braces or even more affordable. 

Invisalign vs Traditional Braces

Some benefits of Invisalign are more obvious than others. For instance, patients love that aligners are clear and hardly noticeable. Other benefits are less obvious, like the fact that Invisalign can provide faster results than braces in some cases. 

Let’s dive into the reasons why so many patients believe that Invisalign is worth the cost.

1. Aesthetics

The aesthetic difference between traditional braces and Invisalign is clear. The nearly invisible aligners draw older teens and adults to this orthodontic treatment because they can maintain a mature and professional appearance while undergoing orthodontic treatment. 

What is even better is that this method of straightening teeth and correcting bite issues often provides several other advantages over traditional orthodontic methods. 

2. Comfort

Invisalign uses a patented SmartTrack™ material that consists of several layers of polyurethane plastic resin. SmartTrack is safe, effective, and comfortable. The aligners fit snugly around the teeth and should not irritate the gums, lips, or cheeks (a common complaint among patients with traditional braces). 

3. Freedom

Patients who choose Invisalign have the freedom to remove the aligners whenever necessary. Although they must be worn for at least 22 hours per day to be effective, being able to remove the aligners while eating is a freedom that traditional braces do not offer. 

4. Easy maintenance

Traditional braces require a lot of maintenance. You even need a special tool for flossing. Invisalign aligners are easy to clean. Simply soak them in a cleaning solution or gently scrub them with a toothbrush. 

Removing the aligners also makes it easy to thoroughly clean your teeth before putting the aligner back in your mouth. Easy maintenance and the ability to care for your teeth as usual reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease during and after treatment. 

5. Results

The success of the Invisalign brand can be attributed to its effective and proven results. Compared to braces and other clear aligner brands, Invisalign is often faster at moving teeth and treating a variety of other conditions. As long as the patient complies with his dentist’s aftercare guidelines, his results should last a lifetime! 

The Numbers

So, what does Invisalign really cost? According to health.com, Invisalign treatment typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000. Most people pay less than $5,000. Traditional braces can cost as low as $3,000 and as high as $10,000. 

What you pay for treatment will depend on several factors, including: 

  • The extent of your alignment issues
  • Your location
  • The dentist you choose
  • Your compliance
  • Retainers and aftercare
  • Insurance coverage

To get a more realistic estimate, talk to an experienced Invisalign dentist near you. 

Invisalign Dentist in Coffs Harbour

Our team at Magic Smiles in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoogla can help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. Contact us today at any of our three locations by phone or send us a message online. 

Aug 25
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happy older man sitting at table outside

“Am I too old for dental implants?” and other FAQs

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Tooth replacement is a reality for many seniors. One of the most common types of tooth replacements is dental implants. Many may ask whether they are too old for dental implant surgery. The short answer to that question is no. 

Dr. Arpit Pathak at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre can help you determine dental implant surgery is right for you.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that resemble screws. The implants are inserted into a patient’s mouth and they bond with natural bone. An abutment, or connector, is then placed on top of the implant. This abutment acts as the base for the replacement tooth or “crown” to be placed on top.

Dental implants have become among the strongest, safest, and most successful dentistry procedures around. Their success rate is near 98%.

What are the steps to getting a dental implant?

The process of getting a dental implant occurs in several steps:

  1. Consultation. Your dental professional will examine the implant site, using X-rays or 3D scans, and explain implant options for you. 
  2. Implant installation. At the next appointment, your dentist will insert the implant in your jaw at the site of the missing tooth. Keeping in mind that everyone’s experience differs, most patients say they’ve experienced less pain and discomfort than they expected. Many patients report returning to work the next day. The discomfort experienced post-surgery is like that experienced after other dental surgeries. Swelling, some pain, and minor bleeding are to be expected. Most patients successfully manage the symptoms with over-the-counter medications. The dental surgeon will usually use stitches that self-dissolve. If the dentist uses stitches that do not dissolve on their own, he will remove them for you in a follow-up visit.
  3. Osseointegration. The process by which the jawbone begins to bond with the implant is known as osseointegration. Your dentist may recommend eating only soft foods for several weeks to ensure the success of this phase. Within weeks, most patients can resume their normal eating habits.
  4. Placement of abutments. After the bone and implant have successfully bonded, your dentist will place the abutment on top of the dental implant. The abutment is the connector on top of which the replacement tooth, or crown, will be placed.
  5. New teeth. Once gums are fully healed from the initial surgery, your dentist will custom make your new teeth by taking molds, or impressions, of your mouth. Upon completion, the new restorations are inserted on top of the abutments.

Is implant failure possible?

Most dental implant procedures for seniors are successful. There are cases, however, where osseointegration, or the fusion of the bone with the implant, does not take place. In cases like this, the implant is removed and the procedure can be retried in about three months. Patients may also opt for a dental bridge or denture. 

How do I care for my new implants?

To get the most out of your new implants and help ensure they last a long time the patient can take care of them by:

  • Brushing and flossing regularly, as you would for natural teeth
  • Getting regular checkups at your dental office, as well as regular cleanings
  • Avoiding harmful habits like chewing very hard foods like ice or hard candy

Dental Implants in Coffs Harbour

Dr. Pathak and his team are ready to answer any and all questions you may have about dental implants. Call any of our three convenient locations (Coffs Harbour – (02) 6652-3242 or Woolgoolga – (02) 6654-0650) or schedule a free consultation online today.

Aug 19
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Choosing the best dentist for you

6 Factors to Consider When Evaluating a Dental Practice Near You

By Woolgoogla and Coffs Harbour Dentist No Comments

Choosing a new dentist is an important decision. Routine dental checkups help keep your teeth and gums healthy and help prevent disease. Poor oral health can result in many other health risks including cardiovascular disease, for example.

But what factors should be considered when searching for a new dentist? It’s common to hop online and search for “best dental practice near me” when looking for a new dental practice. But what exactly makes a dental practice the “best” or even good? Dr. Arpit Pathak at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre can help you make an informed decision.

Below are 6 important factors to consider when evaluating a new dental practice. 

1. Referrals

A good way to find a dental practice is by getting referrals. Those referrals can come from those closest to you, such as family and friends. They can also come from strangers in the form of reviews left for the practice online. 

Other healthcare professionals, such as your primary care physician or physical therapist can also be a great source for referrals. 

2. Credentials

When researching a new dentist, be sure to evaluate their credentials. Board certification, for example, is a primary factor to consider when deciding on a new dentist. A properly certified dentist completed the appropriate training, education, and has appropriate experience in his field.

It may also be a good idea to examine whether a dentist has a history of malpractice claims or disciplinary actions against him. Such information is usually a matter of public record and can be found on the website of your local government agency that oversees the accreditation of medical professionals.

3. Experience

The more experienced a dental professional is in his field, the higher the success rate of your results will be. This can be especially true if someone is looking for treatment for a specific condition. 

Asking how many patients a dentist has treated for a particular condition or how many specific procedures he has performed can help a patient gauge the level of experience a dentist has attained.

4. Technology

Dentistry is a discipline that is always evolving. New technologies are being put into practice every day.

Inquiring whether a dental practice near you offers the latest in technological equipment can indicate whether the practice has good diagnostic capabilities that can result in less invasive treatments and yield better results.

5. Bedside Manner

A medical professional’s bedside manner or communication style is a critical component in determining his ability to care for patients. Choosing a dentist that is comfortable speaking with patients and who understands a patient’s needs is vital to getting effective care and treatment.

Ask yourself this question: Is this dental professional open with knowledge and do they welcome and respect questions? If the answer is “no” or “it could be better,” he may not be the right dentist for you.

6. Insurance

Knowing which insurance a dental practice accepts or does not is a practical matter. Choosing a dentist who offers your dental insurance may mean the difference between paying little in out-of-pocket expenses or paying a lot. 

Dental Practice Near You in Coffs Harbour

Dr. Pathak and his team are ready to answer any questions you may have about your oral care. Call any of our three convenient locations: 

  1. Coffs Harbour – (02) 6652-3242 
  2. Woolgoolga – (02) 6654-0650) 

 Or schedule a free consultation online today.