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. 

 

Aug 12
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Veneers or dental crowns: which are best?

Veneers vs Crowns:  Which option is right for you?

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

Veneers and dental crowns are great ways to improve a smile. One restores damaged or decayed teeth while the other is solely cosmetic. 

Dr. Arpit Pathak at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre can explain the pros and cons of veneers and crowns to help you determine the best option for your smile.

How are veneers and crowns different?

Dental crowns cover and protect damaged and decayed teeth. They can also replace a missing tooth when paired with a dental implant. 

A dental crown can be thought of as a cover for the whole tooth. They are roughly 2 millimeters thick and are made of either porcelain, a combination of porcelain and metal, or entirely of metal.

A veneer is a thin tooth-colored shell that is attached to the front of an existing tooth. It is made of porcelain or resin (a composite material) and is roughly about 1 mm thick.

Veneers can cover surface-level chips and cracks. However, chips and cracks that affect the tooth’s root or pulp must be treated with a crown. 

Because a veneer only covers the front surface of a tooth, it leaves more of the original tooth intact than crowns. However, about half a millimeter of the enamel on the front of the tooth needs to be ground down to roughen the surface for bonding a veneer.

What’s the process for getting a veneer?

The dentist makes an impression of your tooth either by digital scan or by mold. The image or mold is then sent out to a lab for the creation of the veneer. When the veneer is manufactured and sent back to the dentist, it is bonded to the tooth using special cement. Once the cement hardens, the veneer is ready to go.

What’s the process for getting a crown? 

Unlike veneers, dental crowns cover an entire tooth. Because of that, more of the original tooth needs to be filed in advance of crown placement.

As with veneers, a dentist takes an impression of your tooth by digital scan or by mold and then sends that scan or mold to a lab for manufacturing of the crown.

When the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will place it on the patient’s tooth. Then, the fit and bite will be adjusted until comfortable.

What are the pros and cons of crowns and veneers?

The pros of crowns

  • Entire coverage of the tooth so there is more protection from decay
  • Porcelain crowns look and feel like natural teeth

The cons of crowns

  • More of the natural tooth needs to be filed or ground down to prepare the tooth for placement
  • The fragility of the porcelain means it can be damaged over time
  • A dark line between the crown and the gum may become visible as the gum recedes over time (this only applies to crowns that are made from porcelain fused with metal alloy)

The pros of veneers

  • Aesthetically pleasing; no line between the gum and the crown becomes visible 
  • Don’t require a lot of filing or grinding of natural teeth in preparation

The cons of veneers

  • More of the natural tooth is left exposed, leading to decay
  • The lifespan of veneers is only 5-7 years, at which point they may have to be replaced
  • Veneers are not reversible

Learn More from Our Coffs Harbour Dentist

A patient with teeth that require restoration can get all of their questions answered about crowns and veneers by Dr. Pathak and his team. Call any one of our three convenient locations (Coffs Harbour – (02) 6652-3242 or Woolgoolga – (02) 6654-0650) or conveniently schedule an appointment online today.

 

Aug 06
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A woman puts a clear aligner in her mouth after visiting an Invisalign doctor in New South Wales.

Do clear aligners move teeth better than braces?

By Orthodontics No Comments

People often come to a fork in the road on the path to straightened teeth: braces or aligner therapy? Each treatment has its advantages and disadvantages, but you may be wondering if one orthodontic treatment is more effective than the other.

The answer? It really just depends.

In 2019, BMC Oral Health published a medical journal comparing the effectiveness of clear aligners and braces. Researchers discovered that clear aligners were better in moving sections of teeth in shorter lengths of time. However, braces are more effective at controlling the teeth, holding teeth in place, and bite force contacts.

Both treatments use proven technology with a long history of successful cases. The real question is not whether one is better than the other, but whether one suits your personal needs and lifestyle.

Clear Aligners

Aligner therapy is a popular alternative to metal braces. Clear aligners work like any other orthodontic device. They apply pressure on the teeth to gently move them and reshape the supporting jaw bone, but with trays instead of wires and brackets.

Advantages

  • Most people choose clear aligners, like Invisalign®, because they are invisible. When patients clean them regularly and effectively, most people won’t notice that they have aligners on.
  • No poky wires or scratchy brackets are needed for aligner therapy, so many people consider them more comfortable.
  • Do you have a big speech, and you’re worried your orthodontic device may make you sound funny? Are you not ready to give up your favorite foods? Clear aligners are removable.
  • Clear aligners are low maintenance. Because they can be removed, aligners and the teeth are easy to clean.

Disadvantages

  •  Although Invisalign has advanced quite a bit since its emergence in the 1990s, this technology is still limited and cannot correct overly complex alignment issues.
  •  Accidents happen. Clear aligners are easy to misplace or break because they are removable.
  • If patients don’t wear clear aligners as prescribed, they will not work. People must remember to wear them with responsibility.

Braces

When most people think about braces, they imagine those made of brackets, wires, and rubber bands. Traditional metal braces have been straightening teeth for decades. Thankfully, contemporary braces are much smaller and more comfortable than before.

Advantages

  • Traditional braces are best for complicated cases, such as rotated teeth.
  • The wearer cannot remove fixed braces, so they cannot be lost.
  • Because they cannot be removed, treatment time can be faster when compared to inconsistent aligner wearers.
  • Braces encourage compliance because patients must visit their orthodontists monthly for check-ups and tightening.
  • Braces are customizable, and patients can choose different colors to showcase their sense of style.

Disadvantages

  • Metal braces are obvious.
  • Braces aren’t removable, so patients must wear them at all times until treatment is over.
  • If patients have a tight schedule, it may be difficult to visit their orthodontists every month.
  • Patients must avoid some foods so that brackets don’t pop off.
  • Sometimes, braces can make it harder to clean and floss teeth thoroughly.

Schedule an Appointment Today

No matter what path you choose, straighter teeth benefit wellness and may cause you to smile more. At Magic Smiles Dental Implant Centre, our dentists examine the teeth to help determine if aligner therapy is right for you.

Please schedule a consultation for clear aligner therapy in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, NSW, by sending us a message online.

Jul 30
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happy kids with plane

PREPARING KIDS TO MEET YOUR LOCAL CHILDREN’S DENTIST

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Why are young kids so reluctant to meet their local children’s dentist? Dentophobia in young children may stem from fear of a new environment and not knowing what to expect. It could also be caused by the sound of dental equipment. 

Whatever the cause, parents and dentists have to work together to foster good oral health. When kids develop dental hygiene skills at a young age, they have fewer tooth problems as adults. 

So what’s the solution? How can parents help their kids get excited about going to the dentist? Here are some pro tips to help your little one overcome dental fear: 

THE FIRST MEETING

Ideally, children should have their first dental visit when they start teething or turn one year old, whichever comes first. Look for a dental practice that specializes in treating young children. They will work with parents to make the visit feel safe and exciting. 

Here are two tips for parents of young children: 

  1. Have kids meet their local children’s dentist before having a cleaning or exam. They can take a tour of the dentist’s office, meet their care team, and even sit in the chair. It’s a no-pressure way to introduce them to the dentist.
  2. Incorporate the idea of visiting the dentist into conversations at home. Try to find age-appropriate books that describe what it’s like to go to the dentist. Kids might want to give dental exams to their stuffed animals or learn more about healthy teeth.

Even with all of the above preparation, some kids will take a few visits to warm up to dental and other medical visits. This is absolutely normal and universal. 

DEVELOPING HEALTHY HABITS AT HOME

Once kids are comfortable with their local dentist, they can start getting cleanings and exams. Even though baby teeth fall out eventually, it’s still important to check them regularly for signs of decay.

To make sure kids pass their dental exams with flying colors, establish a tooth brushing routine at home. Flossing isn’t necessary until kids have two teeth that touch each other, usually around the age of two or three. Tooth brushing, on the other hand, is a perfect addition to the bedtime routine. 

If your child has been to the dentist several times and still shows reluctance or fear, have a chat with them at home. Being brave and overcoming fear is something we all have to do at times. Also, talk to your dentist. They may suggest that your child: 

  • Bring a stuffed animal or blanket to exams
  • Sit in your lap during teeth cleaning
  • Come in when there are fewer patients in the office
  • Visit again without having an exam

Compassionate dentistry is all about helping patients get the right care. If it takes a little longer to get our littlest patients excited about brushing, we don’t mind at all. 

CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY IN COFFS HARBOUR

We know that children can get a little nervous when it’s time to visit the dentist, which is why our friendly team at Magic Smiles is so patient and kind. Dental visits shouldn’t be stressful, so we do everything possible to put your child at ease. 

Children between the ages of two and 17 may be entitled to $1000 of free dental treatment through Medicare. To determine eligibility, call Medicare direct (132 150) to speak with a customer service representative. 

To get started with us, give us a call at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our dental specialists. 

 

Jul 23
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Invisalign aligners

YOUR FIRST WEEK WITH INVISALIGN: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

By Invisalign No Comments

Are you an adult who would like to reap the benefits of straight teeth? Do you need to find a discreet way to improve your smile? 

More than 10 million people have used Invisalign, a set of clear braces that realigns even extremely crooked teeth. Instead of metal braces, which can be uncomfortable, Invisalign uses a series of clear retainers. 

In general, Invisalign treatment takes 12 to 18 months, and there is a slight adjustment period. Patients often see results in just a few weeks. To find out the best way to care for new Invisalign aligners, keep reading. 

MAXIMIZE THE BENEFITS OF INVISALIGN ALIGNERS

During the first few weeks, Invisalign retainers may be a bit uncomfortable. Patients should wear them for 22 hours per day to get the maximum benefits. Patients will feel pressure as teeth move into their new positions, but there shouldn’t be any sharp pain. Here are a few ways to adjust to the aligners:

  • USE AN ALIGNER CHEWIE

So much depends upon getting a tight seal between the Invisalign retainer and the teeth. One simple way to accomplish this is to use an aligner chewie, a small device that patients bite down on while wearing the braces. They put the chewie over different sections of teeth, then bite. 

This tightens the seal and makes the aligners more comfortable. There shouldn’t be any sharp pain or bleeding from the gums. If this occurs, it’s time to meet with the dental team in person.

  • MONITOR DAILY WEAR

If possible, remove the Invisalign aligners every day at the same times. These breaks can occur at any time of day, but make sure the total “off” time is no more than two hours. The braces might irritate the tongue at first, but it’s important to leave them in place. 

There are several free apps to help track daily wear time. Use these if you aren’t sure if you are meeting the required time. Patients who are inconsistent with wearing their braces could extend their treatment time past 18 months. 

  • REMOVE PROPERLY AND CLEAN THOROUGHLY

Although it’s tempting to remove aligners by hand, it can scrape the gums and lead to infection. To properly remove Invisalign aligners, use an Orthokey. This small hook is specific to Invisalign appliances and is safe to use at home. 

Cleaning aligners takes a few steps, but this process is vital to prevent bacteria and plaque buildup. First, remove the aligners and rinse them under warm water. Next, brush them with toothpaste and rinse again. Soak the aligners in a special cleaning solution and then rinse one more time. 

Taking the time to care for Invisalign aligners helps maintain oral health during the realignment process. Teeth and gums are extremely vulnerable to bacteria, and proper care will prevent gum disease from taking hold. 

Talk to your dentist to see if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign.  

TEETH WHITENING AFTER INVISALIGN

After our patients’ teeth are nice and straight, we recommend that they get teeth whitening. Our friendly team at Magic Smiles can do in-house whitening procedures that give you a dazzling, natural-looking smile. 

In addition to clear Invisalign braces, we also offer traditional metal braces. Adults who wish to improve their smiles are welcome here! We have offices in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour.

Talk to us about your oral health goals and we can chat about the Invisalign process. Contact our experienced team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our experienced dental specialists.

Jul 16
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a tooth with a blue arrow

DENTAL IMPLANTS VS. DENTURES: WHICH IS BEST?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Adults need dental implants or dentures for a number of reasons. Poor oral hygiene, untreated gum disease, and heart disease can all lead to tooth loss. Diabetes and COPD are also common culprits. 

Surprisingly, about two-thirds of all senior citizens have gum disease. That’s about 36 million people who are at risk of losing teeth. What’s the solution? 

Dentists work with patients to prevent tooth loss, but if it occurs they have a few solutions. Dental implants are one treatment option, but how do they stack up against dentures? To find out more about these procedures, keep reading. 

DENTAL IMPLANTS: A PERMANENT SOLUTION

Dental implants consist of a post made from titanium, which is implanted in the gums, and a crown made from ceramic or porcelain. There are several steps involved with dental implants. First, the oral surgeon removes the tooth and allows the gums to heal. If necessary, he or she will graft bone into the empty spot in the patient’s gums. 

After this heals, the oral surgeon implants the post in the gums. They may top it with a porcelain or ceramic crown, or use it as an anchor for dental bridges or dentures. With proper care, dental implants can last for 30 years or more. 

Dental implants strengthen the gums and do require a healthy, robust gumline for optimal insertion. They provide a natural-looking, enduring solution to tooth loss. 

The only drawback for some patients is the cost. Dentists may discount multiple implants and they can provide guidance regarding health plans. 

DENTURES: AN AFFORDABLE ALTERNATIVE

Dentures are ideal for patients who have lost several teeth in a row or entire arches. They also work well for patients whose gums cannot support dental implants. Dentures are custom-made, typically from acrylic resin. 

Patients who have remaining healthy teeth may be good candidates for partial dentures. These dentures may be anchored to implants or the patient’s teeth. Often, they are removable. 

Full dentures are another option for patients who have had a full arch removed on the top, bottom, or both. Again, specialists craft natural-looking, custom appliances that help patients talk and chew normally.

The cost of dentures is typically less than that of implants, but dentists can advise as to the final price. 

Whether patients choose dental implants or dentures, the goal is always a healthy mouth and a bright smile. Restoring your teeth can make you feel more confident, boosting your ability to get jobs and make friends. 

It’s always a good time to address your oral health. Even if you haven’t been to a dentist for years, let us help you by starting with a tooth cleaning. We can discuss your smile goals and see if implants or dentures are a viable option.

RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY IN COFFS HARBOUR

Tooth loss happens, but our friendly team at Magic Smiles offers dentures and dental implants that give you a dazzling, natural-looking smile. 

We also offer a wide range of cosmetic procedures including tooth bonding, contouring, and clear Invisalign braces. Adults who wish to improve their smiles are welcome here! We have offices in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour.

It’s never too late to invest in a healthy, full smile. Talk to us about your oral health goals. Contact our experienced team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our dental specialists. 

Jul 09
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Attractive senior man with nice smile

FAQ ABOUT DENTAL IMPLANTS WITH COFFS HARBOUR DENTIST

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Did you know that tooth implants have been around for thousands of years? Bamboo, copper, and iron have all been used to replace missing teeth. Some civilizations even used human or animal teeth, to varying levels of success. 

Nowadays, experienced oral surgeons use titanium dental implants. Your local Coffs Harbour dentist performs dozens of implants each year and is happy to answer commonly asked questions about this procedure. 

With proper care, dental implants can last for more than 30 years. Keep reading to learn more about this attractive, durable solution for missing teeth. 

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants have a 90% to 95% success rate and the surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. Dentists first remove the infected or broken tooth, creating a gap in the gum line. They allow that to heal and may graft in some donor bone if the gum line is not strong enough. Once that heals, it’s time to focus on the implant. 

  • WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS? 

Dental implants are titanium posts that are inserted into the gumline. They strengthen the patient’s gums and, as they heal, integrate themselves into the jaw bone. The titanium bonds with the patient’s bone and does not move around like some dentures. 

Implants are natural-looking and long-lasting solutions for people with one or two missing teeth in a row. Larger gaps may require bridges or dentures. 

  • WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?

People with healthy gums and sufficient jawbone are good candidates for dental implants. If the jaw bone has deteriorated, oral surgeons graft in healthy bone. This supports healing and promotes acceptance of the implant. 

At the time of the implant, patients should be in good physical health. Dentists may need to confer with patients’ doctors in the event of an ongoing physical illness. 

  • WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Depending upon the patient’s preferences, dental implants may be better than traditional dentures or dental bridges. They are permanent, don’t shift around, and look natural. Dentures can be uncomfortable at first, and bridges may require filing down existing teeth. 

Our Coffs Harbour dentist will discuss your options to make sure you’re getting the right procedure. 

  • HOW MUCH DO IMPLANTS COST?

Even though implants cost more than other options, they are an investment in your smile and overall health. Missing teeth diminish oral health and weaken the jawbone, so it’s important to replace them as soon as possible.

Costs for implants vary according to each patient’s health plan, and dentists may be able to discount multiple implants. The operation can be performed with or without general anesthesia for nervous patients or complex cases. Talk to your local Coffs Harbour dentist about what we can do for your smile!

DENTAL IMPLANTS WITH COFFS HARBOUR DENTIST

If you are considering dental implants, the first step is an evaluation and x-ray. Our experienced team at Magic Smiles will determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. We provide gentle dental checkups and will only recommend you for implants if it’s the right next step. 

Patients who are getting implants for a special event, such as a wedding or graduation, should know that implants can take up to six months from the initial exam to the final crown. 

Let’s talk! Contact our friendly team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our dental specialists. 

Jul 02
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Coffs Harbour Invisalign Dentist

Your Coffs Harbour Invisalign® Dentist Explains Clear Braces

By Invisalign No Comments

Do you dream of a beautiful smile but hate the idea of metal braces? Have you thought about Invisalign® clear orthodontics but fear they will be ineffective?

At Magic Smiles Dental, Dr. Arpit Pathak has helped hundreds of patients achieve a beautiful, straight smile with Invisalign clear aligners. Here he explains how Invisalign works to correct misaligned teeth and bites.

Why should I consider Invisalign orthodontics?

Aside from the obvious aesthetic improvement orthodontics provide, straight teeth offer much more than a beautiful smile. Over half of our patients report improved confidence and happiness after treatment with Invisalign clear aligners. Also, crooked, crowded, and gapped teeth are much harder to keep clean, so straightening your teeth also comes with enhanced oral health.

While traditional metal braces effectively move your teeth into proper alignment, Invisalign offers several advantages that attract many patients.

One of the most popular reasons patients choose Invisalign orthodontics is because they are so discreet. With their perfect fit and clear design, they are virtually invisible. In fact, people standing right next to you probably won’t even notice them.

Another reason people love Invisalign is that they are removable. This makes oral hygiene much easier and more effective and means none of the food restrictions metal braces require.

Aside from those reasons, patients find the clear aligners much more comfortable than metal brackets and wires that can poke and injure soft tissues in the mouth. There’s also no need for emergency dental visits for a broken wire of lost bracket.

Moreover, because of how Invisalign aligners work, most patients only have to wear them for 6 to 18 months, compared to the usual 2 years for traditional braces.

How do I get started with clear aligners?

The first step in the process is an evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. Good oral health is vital, so any dental decay or gum disease issues will need treatment before beginning with orthodontics. The evaluation will also include photographs, x-ray images, and a model of your teeth and bite.

At Magic Smiles Dental, we use digital x-rays for reduced radiation exposure and improved image quality. We also utilize state-of-the-art intraoral scanners that produce an instant 3D surface model using advanced imaging sensors. This allows you to avoid the traditional dental molds that are unpleasant and messy.

Your Invisalign dentist will then utilize all your information to generate a computerized treatment plan. A special Invisalign lab will fabricate your clear aligner sets with advanced dental technology so that they will fit perfectly.

As you progress through treatment, each new aligner set will progressively move your teeth into the desired positions.

Do clear aligners really move teeth effectively?

All orthodontics, including Invisalign clear aligners, reposition teeth through force. The force breaks down bone surrounding teeth, allowing them to move. Once a tooth moves to the desired position, bone regeneration holds it firmly in its new place.

To achieve continued force, traditional metal braces require frequent visits to the dentist for wire tightening. Rubber bands are also commonly employed to achieve the correct force.

With Invisalign, however, the force is progressively changed by micromovements through a series of aligners. Each new set is created to move your teeth gently but continually toward their desired positions. During treatment, you will progress to a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks. And since you progress at home on your own, you won’t have to see your dentist as often.

As you progress in treatment, tooth movement will be noticeable when you see your smile in the mirror. The final set of aligners is meant to be your retainers, and just like retainers after traditional braces, you will need to wear these until bone regeneration is complete.

While not everyone is a candidate for Invisalign aligners, they are highly effective in patients with mild to moderate crowded and crooked teeth.

Are you a candidate for Invisalign Clear Orthodontics?

Would you like to know if Invisalign will give you the smile you have always dreamed of? If you are in the Coffs Harbour area, contact our friendly, knowledgeable dental team today at (02) 6652 3242 to schedule an appointment. We would be honored to help you fall in love with your smile!