May 07
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beautiful woman on white background pointing to her smile

Coffs Harbour Dentist Offers Tips for Safe Teeth Whitening

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

What’s the first thing you notice about a person? For many people, it’s their smile. Did you know that a beautiful smile can make a person appear more intelligent and successful? That could be a life-changing assumption! Beautiful smiles have several qualities, including no stains, no missing teeth, a healthy gum line, no chips or cracks, and perfect alignment.

Teeth whitening is one of the quickest ways to improve the appearance of your teeth. Unfortunately, not all whitening methods are safe. The good news is that it can be done safely! Here are five tips for safe teeth whitening from our Coffs Harbour dentist:

1. Understand dental stains

There are two types of dental stains: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic dental stains alter the dentin, the layer beneath the dental enamel. These stains aren’t cosmetic, and therefore, cannot be treated by teeth whitening methods. An overuse of fluoride, certain medications, trauma, or aging can lead to intrinsic stains. Dental veneers are the most common treatment for intrinsic stains.

Extrinsic dental stains only affect the dental enamel and are typically caused by certain foods and beverages and smoking. These stains become permanent when a person continually exposes his or her teeth to these substances and when tooth-staining agents sit on the teeth for long periods. These are the types of stains that can be treated with professional or over-the-counter teeth whitening products.

Without understanding these differences, people often overuse whitening treatments and cause more damage to their teeth. This can result in severe dental sensitivity, gum irritation, and more discoloration.

2. Consult your dentist

A dental visit is necessary before beginning the whitening process. Dentists will never offer whitening treatments or encourage over-the-counter whitening for patients with cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues. These problems must be addressed before bleaching begins. Failing to address these issues can lead to more and worse oral health problems.

Additionally, the dentist will tell you whether the stains on your teeth are intrinsic or extrinsic so you know which type of treatment you need.

Finally, a dentist can offer personalized tips for patients who decide to use over-the-counter whitening treatments.

3. Follow instructions carefully

Store-bought whitening gels, strips, pastes, and rinses have specific directions written on the back of the product. Be sure to follow these instructions to a T. Failure to do so could result in damage to the enamel.

4. Be wary of home remedies

While some home remedies do provide some results, most of them only remove surface stains, much like toothpaste. Many home remedies, such as rubbing strawberries on your teeth, can actually harm them if done too often or improperly. Be sure to do your research before trying these at-home whitening methods.

5. Opt for professional whitening treatments

Our best advice to you is to save up or invest in professional whitening treatments. In-office whitening is safe, extremely effective, and long-lasting.

Because a dentist performs the whitening procedure, the process can be customized to your needs, and the soft tissues of the mouth are covered and protected from the whitening gel. Professional whitening treatments provide incredible results in under an hour. In most cases, when patients leave the office, their teeth are up to 8 shades brighter than when they walked in. These results can last up to three years.

Coffs Harbour Teeth Whitening

At Magic Smiles, our team is dedicated to offering safe, effective, and conservative cosmetic treatments that offer dramatic results.

Ready to improve your smile? And possibly your life? Call our friendly dental team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation.

Apr 26
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female patient receiving tooth crown

Everything You Need to Know about Getting a Tooth Crown

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Sometimes a tooth is so badly decayed or damaged that it can’t be repaired with a simple filling. In these cases, a tooth crown may be necessary to restore your oral health, function, and appearance. Our team of dentists at Magic Smiles create custom dental crowns that blend in with your smile for natural results.

If you are considering a dental crown, there are several things you may be wondering. Our team is here to answer your questions and tell you everything you need to know about dental crown treatment.

When is a tooth crown recommended?

Dental crowns may be recommended for a number of reasons. This type of restoration can be used to:

  • Repair a decayed tooth
  • Strengthen a weakened tooth
  • Restore a broken tooth
  • Cover cosmetic imperfections, such as chips or stains
  • Restore a dental implants
  • Protect a tooth that has been treated with root canal therapy

Am I a candidate for a tooth crown?

If you have a decayed or damaged tooth, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. To be eligible for this type of treatment, you must be in good oral health, free from periodontal disease and other serious dental issues. During a consultation at Magic Smiles, your dentist will perform a comprehensive oral examination to ensure that a dental crown is right for you. If you have extensive damage, you may be better suited for alternative treatments, such as an extraction and dental implant. We will recommend the most conservative treatment possible to keep your oral health on track.

Dental Crown Treatment Process

Many patients ask us what to expect when receiving a dental crown. In most cases, the procedure requires at least two office visits. During the first appointment, your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the affected tooth. This prepares the tooth so that it can serve as an anchor for your new restoration. Once this step is complete, we will take dental impressions of your smile. These impressions are then sent to our partner dental lab, where a technician will design your crown.

Your final dental crown will be delivered to our office once it is ready. Next, we’ll schedule you for a second visit at our practice. At this appointment, your dentist will try in your new crown to ensure that the fit and color are correct. After making some minor adjustments, your new tooth crown will be permanently cemented into place.

Dental Crown Recovery

After having a tooth crown placed, you may notice some slight, temporary sensitivity. These side effects are normal and should subside in a few days. Most patients can resume normal activity and function the same day.

Though the area may be slightly tender, be sure to keep it clean. Brush and floss normally, and use an antibacterial rinse to reduce the risk of complications.

Preserving Your New Smile

To keep your new dental crown looking and feeling its best, you’ll need to follow the recommendations set forth by the Magic Smiles team. For example:

  • Practice good oral hygiene.
  • Avoid sticky or hard foods.
  • Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth.
  • Visit your dentist regularly.

Learn more about tooth crowns at Magic Smiles.

If you think you may need a tooth crown, schedule a visit at our Coffs Harbour dental office, also serving Woolgoolga. Contact us online anytime.

Apr 20
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happy little girl brushing teeth

Children’s Dentist: Oral Health Tips for Kids

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

While most parents expect their child to have a cavity or two, this doesn’t have to be the case. Cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems are almost always preventable. As dental professionals, we don’t take oral health lightly, and parents shouldn’t either! It’s more common to take overall health more seriously than oral health, but what if we told you that one affects the other? Oral health problems in children can lead to poor digestive health, nutrient deficiencies, and low self-esteem.

We know that you want the best for your little one. That includes helping her achieve optimal oral health so that the rest of her body doesn’t suffer the consequences. In this blog, our children’s dentist offers three tips to help your child gain and maintain a healthy smile.

1. Begin brushing and flossing as early as possible

Parents should clean their children’s mouths long before they develop their first tooth. Milk and other substances can damage a baby’s gum tissue and increase the risk of gum disease. To clean the gums, simply wet a soft cloth and wipe the front, back, and top of your baby’s gums.

When the first tooth develops, buy a finger brush or use a damp washcloth to remove any residue, plaque, and bacteria. Be very gentle and don’t use a toothpaste unless recommended by your children’s dentist. Once the second tooth develops, use floss to clean between the teeth.

As your child gets older (usually by age three), he or she will graduate to a regular, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized dollop of fluoride toothpaste. Children typically need assistance with brushing and flossing until age six.

2. Offer healthy meals and snacks

One of the most important, and often most overlooked, aspects of oral health care is eating healthy foods. Children love snacks like crackers, dried fruit, gummies, and juice. Unfortunately, these usually contain loads of sugar and carbs that contribute to cavities and gum disease.

What our children eat is just as important for their oral health as it is for their overall health. To maintain a healthy microbiome, children should consume diets that contain these vitamins and minerals:

  • Calcium helps build strong bones which provide structural support to the teeth and gums. It also hardens dental enamel.
  • Potassium strengthens bone density and removes acidity from the blood which would otherwise inhibit calcium production.
  • Vitamin D assists the body in absorbing calcium.
  • Vitamin C protects against gum disease and prevents teeth from loosening.
  • Vitamin A prevents dry mouth and promotes healing.

Here are some of our favorite mouth- and kid-friendly snacks:

  • Greek yogurt
  • Milk
  • String cheese
  • Avocados
  • Fruit and veggie smoothie
  • Cantaloupe
  • Apples and peanut butter

Additionally, children should drink plenty of water throughout the day to clean the mouth of food particles and sugars and promote the production of saliva.

3. Find a kid-friendly children’s dentist near you

An experienced, compassionate, and friendly children’s dentist is a parent’s best resource for kids’ oral health. Children’s dentists help parents navigate the first years of oral health care, answer their questions, and give tips for teaching children how to care for their teeth and gums.

Finding the right kids’ dentist is essential to creating a healthy relationship between your child and his or her oral health. Choose a dentist with years of experience working with children, great patient reviews, and who is conveniently located.

Our Woolgoolga Children’s Dentist

At Magic Smiles, our dental team ensures every child that walks into our office feels comfortable and cared for. Our children’s dentist offers preventative treatments to ensure your little one achieves optimal oral health.

To schedule an initial consultation at our dental practice, call (02) 6654-0650 today.

Apr 15
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gum disease or periodontal disease on green background

Gum Disease and Systemic Health

By Oral Health No Comments

Bleeding, irritated, swollen, and receding gums are a few of the most obvious signs of gum disease. Other signs and symptoms include persistent bad breath, loose teeth, changes in bite, and even tooth loss. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, progresses very slowly which is a great thing! This means that dentists can usually catch the disease in its earliest (and only treatable) stage before patients experience the worst symptoms.

However, for patients who don’t visit the dentist regularly, periodontal disease can cause tremendous damage to their oral cavity as well as their bodies. Additionally, periodontal disease can be triggered or worsened by systemic health issues.

How Gum Disease Affects Overall Health

Most often, people develop gum disease because of poor oral hygiene and/or eating habits. What begins as an infection in the gingiva, turns into an inflammatory reaction throughout the body when it gets into the bloodstream.

The bacteria from gum disease infiltrate the bloodstream and can cause the following overall health issues:

Heart disease

After evaluating several research studies, authors from the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology have found a significant link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. Those studies proved that gum disease creates at least a 20 percent increase in the risk of heart disease.

Though this number is seemingly small, any percentage can lead to dire consequences. Therefore, periodontal care is an essential part of avoiding heart issues.

Diabetes

According to the American Dental Association, people who have periodontal disease may develop higher blood sugar which leads to type 2 diabetes. When the microbes from the disease leak into the bloodstream, the body has a natural reaction, which sometimes means raising blood sugar levels.

Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers haven’t quite figured out the connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease and some even disagree that they are related. However, others believe that an over-production of beta-amyloid as a response to gum disease germs could be what causes Alzheimer’s disease.

Overall Health Issues That Cause Periodontal Disease

For some people, gum disease is caused by issues and changes in the body. While many studies of how certain health issues lead to gum disease are ambiguous, the connection certainly seems clear.

Hormonal changes in women that occur during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause often lead to periodontal disease.

The story is a little different for men in that gum disease is more likely to affect other parts of their reproductive health.

Just as periodontal disease can lead to type 2 diabetes, the reverse is also true. Since diabetes leads to blood vessel changes that reduce the flow of nutrients to the rest of the body and removal of waste from the body the gums and bone tissue may weaken.

Gum Disease Prevention

The saying “prevention is the best policy” certainly applies to gum disease. Besides practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, at home, patients should visit the dentist at least every six months. During these appointments, dentists look for signs of periodontal disease and can even eliminate the disease with a dental clean if it’s early enough.

In addition to these practices, patients should eat healthy, exercise, eliminate stressors, and visit their general physicians regularly since we know overall health issues lead to gum disease.

Ready to get your oral (and overall) health back on track? Contact our Woolgoolga dental practice today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation.

Apr 08
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3d render of parts of dental implants

What are dental implants and who needs them?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Patients who have one or more missing teeth may be eligible for dental implants. This innovative dental restoration is the only one that replaces the entire tooth, not just the crown. A dental implant is made from biocompatible materials that are safe and durable. The implant itself resembles a screw. During the dental implant procedure, this screw-like rod is carefully and methodically placed into the jawbone where the new tooth goes.

Dental implants can also be used to replace several missing teeth in a row or an entire arch of missing teeth. In these cases, dentists may only use a few dental implants. For example, to replace an entire arch, the dentist may only need to use four implants to effectively support a denture.

Continue reading to learn about the pros and cons of dental implants and who is eligible for this procedure.

The Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

When it comes to choosing a tooth replacement option, it’s important to know all the details. To help patients grasp the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants, we’ll compare them to bridges and dentures.

The benefits of dental implants include:

  • Stability. Dental implants anchor directly to the jawbone and fuse together through a process called osseointegration.
  • No damage to healthy teeth. With a dental bridge, dentists make permanent alterations to the abutment teeth that may lead to weakened teeth over time.
  • Promote a healthy jawbone. Tooth roots promote jawbone regeneration. So, when a tooth goes missing the opposite happens—the jawbone begins to deteriorate. Thankfully, the bone will grow back once an implant is placed.
  • As stated earlier, dental implants can be attached to several restorations, including crowns, bridges, and dentures.
  • With proper care and hygiene, dental implants can last a lifetime.

The disadvantages of implants include:

  • Long treatment process. For some patients, the entire dental implant process takes 18 months, but it can be as little as 6 months.
  • Dental bridges and dentures do not require any type of surgery to place.
  • Possibility of complications. There is always a possibility of complications or infection when a person undergoes surgery. However, the dental implant procedure is nearly 100 percent successful.
  • Not suitable for everyone. Unfortunately, dental implants aren’t an option for everyone. Continue reading to learn about the candidacy requirements for dental implant patients.

Reasons and Qualifications for Dental Implants

You may need dental implants if you have one or more missing teeth, are suffering from jawbone atrophy, or need a dental extraction.

Patients who are eligible for the dental implant procedure must have these qualities:

  1. Sufficient jawbone density. Once a tooth is lost, the jawbone deteriorates. To place an implant, the bone must be dense enough to support it. In cases where the jawbone isn’t, the dentist may recommend a bone graft.
  2. Good oral and overall health. Surgery requires patients to be in good overall health as conditions like heart disease and diabetes can lead to complications. Patients must also be free of cavities and gum disease that can infect the surgical site.
  3. Healthy lifestyle habits. Consuming too much alcohol and using tobacco products can affect the blood’s ability to clot, slow blood flow, and interfere with your immune system.
  4. Fully developed jawbone. Children and teens are not candidates for dental implants because the jawbone is not fully developed. However, implants may become an option once they are adults.

Dental Implants in Woolgoolga

Interested in dental implants? Our experienced and compassionate dentists at Magic Smiles are ready to help you gain and maintain a healthy beautiful smile. Contact our office today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation.

Apr 01
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woman with Invisalign

Invisalign vs Traditional Metal Braces

By Invisalign No Comments

We all understand the benefits of having straight, perfectly aligned teeth—better oral health, higher self-esteem, and greater chances of success. These reasons are why so many people seek orthodontic treatment; it can be life-changing!

Unfortunately, these benefits often get overlooked when a patient is considering the possibility of wearing braces for up to two years. If that’s your situation, know that you have options and that those options will be the reason you reap the benefits of a beautiful smile.

Invisalign® clear aligners and traditional metal braces are two of the most popular orthodontic options. Continue reading to learn about their pros and cons.

Invisalign

Patients who qualify for Invisalign typically have mild to moderate orthodontic issues, such as:

  • Gapped teeth
  • Crooked teeth
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Crossbite
  • Crowded teeth

Dentists will recommend this treatment for older teens and adults who are willing and able to commit to the process.

Benefits of Invisalign

Here are the most common reasons people choose Invisalign clear aligners:

  • Discreet appearance: The top reason patients love Invisalign clear aligners is their nearly invisible appearance. For older teens and adults, discretion is especially important. Putting metal braces on top of a less-than-perfect smile can add to feelings of insecurity. Clear aligners simply don’t.
  • Comfort: Invisalign uses smooth, flexible plastic material that doesn’t irritate the gums and cheeks (if they are fitted properly). The brackets and wires that make up traditional metal braces often cause irritation that is painful and distracting.
  • Convenience: Clear aligners can be removed at any time during the day. However, patients must wear them for at least 22 hours a day to receive desired results. Patients love that they can remove their aligners while eating or even while giving a presentation at work. This is a convenience that metal braces don’t provide.
  • Easy maintenance: Proper care is an essential part of being an Invisalign patient. Thankfully, clear aligners don’t require much! Patients should clean their teeth and rinse the aligner after every meal and use a special cleaner each night as a part of their oral hygiene routine.

Disadvantages of Invisalign

Before dentists approve patients for Invisalign, the patient must commit to wearing the aligners for at least 22 hours a day. The patient must also be responsible enough to keep up with every new aligner. They can easily be thrown away or misplaced during mealtimes!

Additionally, Invisalign clear aligners are typically more expensive than traditional metal braces because patients receive a new aligner tray about every six weeks.

Traditional Metal Braces

Initially, traditional metal braces may seem much less desirable, but the benefits of traditional braces are worth considering.

Benefits of Traditional Metal Braces

Metal braces…

  • are more effective for complex orthodontic issues.
  • are permanent, so they won’t get lost or damaged.
  • don’t require extra cleaning steps.
  • are more affordable.

Disadvantages of Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are notorious for…

  • being chunky and extremely conspicuous
  • poky wires that irritate the gums
  • getting food stuck in the brackets
  • making eating more difficult

Invisalign and Orthodontic Treatment in Woolgoolga

Our dental and orthodontic experts at Magic Smiles are prepared to help patients with all types of orthodontic issues. We discuss your orthodontic needs, smile goals, and budget to create a plan that meets your specific needs. To schedule an initial consultation, call (02) 6654-0650 today.

Mar 20
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portrait of man smiling at the camera

How Cosmetic Dentistry Helps People Achieve Beautiful Smiles

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

With the invention of social media, the need and desire for a beautiful, picture-perfect smile has grown significantly. Thanks to science and advancements in dentistry, cosmetic dentistry treatments are more accessible and affordable than ever before!

Achieving a beautiful smile could be as simple as establishing a good oral hygiene routine, as complex as getting a complete smile makeover, or something in between. Regardless, the first step is to find an experienced and highly qualified cosmetic dentist near you. Then, talk to him or her about what a picture-perfect smile looks like to you. That could be having white teeth, a straighter smile, closing gaps, or fixing a chip in a tooth.

Whatever that looks like for you, a cosmetic dentist will have a solution. Here are the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments:

Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening offers benefits that over-the-counter products can’t provide. For example, store-bought whitening treatments typically take about three weeks to produce results. In-office whitening offers immediate ones! Additionally, patients can rest assured that their teeth are in safe hands. Many people damage their dental enamel by over-using whitening products at home. Dentists know exactly how much product to use on the teeth and how long to leave it on them, so patients don’t experience lasting dental damage.

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring is necessary for patients with too much gum tissue that causes a gummy smile or shrinking gums that expose the tooth roots. This procedure requires the dentist to use special tools to reshape the gums. In some cases, only one or a few teeth need treatment while others require contouring in the entire smile zone.

Tooth Contouring

One or more oddly shaped teeth can make a smile less attractive. Dentists solve this issue by reshaping (or contouring) those teeth to make your entire smile uniform.

Porcelain Veneers

Dental veneers are often referred to as a quick fix for all cosmetic dental issues. Porcelain veneers are specifically beneficial because they are made from a durable material that looks just like natural teeth.

Porcelain veneers address the following issues:

  • Gaps
  • Extrinsic dental stains
  • Crooked and crowded teeth
  • Chips
  • Cracks
  • Odd-shaped teeth

Dental Bonding

Dentists can use the same material that they use for tooth-colored fillings to provide cosmetic dental solutions. Dental bonding utilizes composite resin to fill cracks, fill in gaps, fix chips, and correct odd-shaped teeth. Dental bonding is a common procedure because of its affordability. However, patients often need to have the procedure redone after a few years.

Invisalign®

Traditional metal braces have become less and less common because of the option of Invisalign clear aligners. These medical-grade plastic trays are just as effective as metal braces in almost every situation. Adult patients especially love this option when it comes to orthodontics because it allows them to achieve a beautiful, perfectly aligned smile without having to persevere through months of bulky brackets and wire. Very few people will even notice clear aligners on your teeth!

Talk to an experienced Invisalign dentist to learn if you are a candidate for this treatment.

Cosmetic Dentistry in Woolgoolga

Are you interested in improving the appearance of your smile? Our team of dental professionals at Magic Smiles is here to help! We love seeing the look on our patient’s faces when they finally have a smile they’re proud of, and we see it all the time.

Contact our friendly team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation.

Mar 19
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3d render of jaw with a dental bridge

What are the greatest benefits of a dental bridge?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Missing teeth contribute to all kinds of oral and overall health issues, such as poor digestion, further tooth loss, gum disease, cavities, and poor nutrition. That’s why dentists offer several restorative solutions for tooth loss. Choosing a dental restoration can be a tough decision, but with all the information, the choice can be much easier!

If you have one, two, or three missing teeth in a row, you may be a candidate for a dental bridge. This modern and effective restorative dental device provides patients with incredible benefits. Continue reading to learn what those benefits are.

1. Restored function

Just one or several missing teeth in a row makes chewing and speaking much more difficult. Patients with missing teeth often suffer from digestive issues from not being able to properly break-down their food. A speech impediment may also become apparent.

These teeth must be replaced with a stable, life-like restoration that fills in the gap and provides strength and stability.

Dental bridges do all three! Once the dental bridge is placed, patients can expect to speak and eat just like before.

2. Higher self-confidence

Many people who have experienced tooth loss suffer from low self-esteem that inhibits them from trying new things, taking risks, and meeting new people. In this way, missing teeth also have a negative impact on mental health and overall wellness.

Our dental team is in the business of restoring oral, overall, AND mental health by creating beautiful and functional restorations.

3. Lower risk of tooth movement

When a tooth falls out and isn’t replaced, the adjacent teeth will eventually try to fill in the gap. This may result in small spaces between all of the teeth or larger gaps between some teeth. As a result, patients may require orthodontics along with a dental bridge.

4. Easy maintenance

Dental bridges are a low-maintenance tooth-replacement option when compared to dentures. Proper brushing and flossing are an essential part of every oral hygiene routine, but especially for people who have experienced tooth loss and have dental restorations. In addition to this, patients should floss above their dental bridge, between the gums and prosthetic tooth where food particles can easily become lodged, and plaque can build up.

Dentures require much more cleaning and care because they are removable.

5. Speedy treatment process

The process for receiving dental implants can take up to 18 months while the patient waits for his or her mouth to heal. For dental bridges, the entire process takes only two appointments within a month.

During treatment for a dental bridge, the dentist removes a small amount of enamel from the teeth next to the gap. Then, the dentist takes digital images of the patient’s mouth and uses that to design a custom-made bridge. The bridge is sent to a dental lab technician who carefully crafts the bridge. In the meantime, a temporary bridge is placed. Finally, the permanent denture arrives at the dentist’s office, and the dentist secures it in the patient’s mouth.

Dental Bridge in Woolgoolga

Ready to restore your smile back to healthy, function, and beauty? Our professional and compassionate dental team is prepared to help! At Magic Smiles, oral health is our top priority because we know the impact it has on overall health and wellness.

Contact our friendly dental team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation.

Mar 08
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3d render of jaw with wisdom mesial impaction

6 Common Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

By Oral Health No Comments

Wisdom teeth, fortunately and unfortunately, do not impart wisdom. These fourth molars are called “wisdom teeth” because they develop much later than the other teeth, typically between ages 17 and 24. So if they don’t make us wiser, why do we have them? And why do they almost always need to be extracted?

Many anthropologists believe that wisdom teeth were necessary when humans mainly consumed roots, meat, leave, and nuts. Today, we soften foods by cooking them and use utensils to cut and crush them when necessary. As our methods of cooking have evolved, so have our bodies, including our mouths. Human jaws today are much smaller; therefore, they cannot always accommodate the wisdom teeth.

A smaller jaw typically results in impacted wisdom teeth that must be removed. Here are the most common symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth:

1. Red, swollen gums

Next to the impacted wisdom tooth, a small flap of gum tissue may become irritated and inflamed due to a build-up of plaque and bacteria. This can occur when a tooth has erupted through the skin or with an impacted wisdom tooth.

2. Shifting teeth

Oftentimes, wisdom teeth grow sideways, pushing against the other teeth. Patients with impacted wisdom teeth often experience radiating pain throughout the mouth because of tooth movement. Eventually, the teeth may begin to turn in an effort to make room for the wisdom teeth. Patients who are experiencing dental pain throughout the mouth should contact their dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.

3. Sinus issues

The roots of our upper teeth can press against the sinuses and cause sinus pressure, pain, congestion, and headaches. This issue is rare, but it does occur.

4. An unpleasant taste in the mouth

In some cases, fluid-filled sacs called cysts form next to impacted wisdom teeth. As the fluid leaks, you may experience a bad taste in your mouth, but that’s not the worst of it. When left untreated, the cyst can destroy bones, tooth roots, and other surrounding structures.

5. Pain while eating

When the impacted wisdom teeth push against the adjacent teeth, it can make chewing difficult. Patients may also find that food particles get lodged between their third and fourth molars more easily but are extremely difficult to remove. Leaving food particles lodged between the teeth may lead to cavities or gum disease.

6. Cavities

Impacted wisdom teeth and even fully developed wisdom teeth can be extremely difficult to clean. Cavities and irritated gums are sometimes the first indications that the wisdom teeth should be extracted.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth Woolgoolga

Are you experiencing symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth? Our oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Mohammed Mansour, is prepared to relieve any pain and discomfort associated with the impaction.

The first step towards pain-relief is a thorough exam where our surgeon will determine how many wisdom teeth are impacted or should be removed. Then, we will schedule your surgical appointment. Dr. Mansour will talk to you about how to prepare for the surgery, what to expect during the procedure, and how to care for your mouth afterward so there are no surprises!

If you’re feeling anxious or scared about this procedure, please let us know. We are happy to answer any questions you have and do anything we can to help you feel at ease on the day of the procedure.

To schedule an initial consultation, contact us today at (02) 6654-0650.

Feb 28
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little boy brushing teeth

Children’s Dentist Explains Cavities and Cavity Prevention

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Cavities don’t happen overnight. They are usually a result of months or years of dental neglect. Children who have cavities often don’t brush enough or properly, don’t floss, and eat a diet high in sugar. Genetics and some overall health conditions may also contribute to cavities.

The process of tooth decay looks something like this:

A child drinks apple juice right before bed, then goes to sleep without brushing his teeth. Overnight, the sugar from the apple juice sticks to the teeth, forming a film called plaque. In the morning, the child brushes his teeth but doesn’t clean his molars thoroughly. The plaque is slowly eating away at the enamel on those molars. The next time he brushes, he still doesn’t get the molars, then he eats a cookie right before bed. By the next night, the plaque has turned into tartar which creates a shield for the bacteria. Now the acidic bacteria are able to slowly infiltrate the inner part of the child’s tooth, creating holes (or cavities). The bacteria move to the dentin and pulp, causing sensitivity and pain.

Children’s dentists aim to help kids avoid cavities and decay at all costs. Thankfully, prevention is easy!

Here are our top three tips for preventing cavities at home:

1. Talk about oral hygiene

Children understand that things like sharing, taking baths or showers, and reading are important because parents talk to them about those things. Make sure to talk about oral hygiene often with your child.

Explain to him or her that healthy teeth are just as important as a healthy body because one affects the other. Plus, having smelly breath can be embarrassing.

Talk about the mouth in a fun way! For example, your child’s mouth could be a kingdom and bacteria, an army trying to attack. The toothbrush and floss can be the heroes of the story—saving the king and his kingdom from destruction.

2. Create a proper oral hygiene routine

As you probably know, routines are difficult to make, but so worth it once they become a habit. Create an oral hygiene routine with your little one that includes brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure your child uses short, circular motions and isn’t brushing too hard! Next, use traditional floss or floss picks to clean between the teeth. Finally, rinse with a kid-friendly mouthwash!

3. Offer healthy meals and snacks

One of the best things a parent can do for their child’s oral and overall health is to provide healthy meals and snacks. A good balance of protein, dairy, fruits, and veggies is a great place to start! Our children’s dentist encourages parents to limit sugar and starches as much as possible as they are two of the biggest contributors to tooth decay.

Also, make sure that your little one is drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This helps clean the mouth after meals and snacks and increases saliva production.

Children’s Dentist Bonus Tip

Here’s one more tip for you: take your child to the dentist every six months. Dental exams and cleanings are an essential part of oral hygiene. These appointments ensure that every part of your child’s mouth is being thoroughly and properly cleaned and that his or her teeth are developing properly.

Looking for an experienced children’s dentist in Woolgoolga? Look no further! Our team at Magic Smiles is prepared to help your little one maintain a healthy smile for years to come. Call us today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an appointment.