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
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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woman sitting at desk typing on her laptop

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.