Oct 30
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woman holding clear aligners

The Good and Not-So-Good of Invisalign Clear Aligners

By Invisalign No Comments

When it comes to braces, most patients are ecstatic to hear that Invisalign clear aligners are an option. Traditional metal braces don’t usually sound quite as appealing. However, clear aligners aren’t right for everyone. Continue reading to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of choosing Invisalign clear aligners.

Benefits of Invisalign

Most patients are drawn to Invisalign because of their discreet appearance because they can achieve a beautiful smile without having to deal with metal brackets on their teeth. This is especially true for our adult patients who don’t want braces to make them look or feel like they are in junior high again.

While this is the most obvious benefit, Invisalign also offers:

Comfort

When clear aligners fit properly, they tend to be much more comfortable than metal braces. Many patients with traditional metal braces complain about brackets and wires rubbing against their gums and cheeks throughout the day. Not only is this painful and irritating, but it can be a distraction from school, work, and other tasks throughout the day.

Invisalign clear aligners are made from a smooth, flexible plastic that won’t irritate the gums or cheeks.

Freedom

Although it is important to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day, patients have the freedom to remove their Invisalign trays while eating, to give a speech or presentation, and while brushing their teeth. This benefit is unique to clear aligners and one of the main reasons so many patients chose them as their orthodontic option.

Simple Maintenance

Caring for traditional braces can be difficult because brushing and flossing require more a little more effort and maybe even some new tools. With Invisalign, you can keep your same toothbrush and floss because the aligner can be removed while brushing.

To keep your aligner clean, you will need a special cleaner recommended by your dentist. We also recommend that patients brush after each meal, before replacing their Invisalign tray, to inhibit bacterial growth.

Quick Results

While it’s true that no two treatment plans are alike, most patients can expect to wear their Invisalign trays for between 6 and 18 months.

Drawbacks of Invisalign

Because Invisalign requires patients to wear several different trays throughout treatment, the cost is significantly more expensive than traditional metal braces. Traditional braces cost between $5,000 and $6,000 on average. Invisalign can cost up to $8,000. However, every treatment plan is different. So be sure to ask your dentist for a quote.

Clear aligners also require more responsibility and self-control from the patient. We only recommend Invisalign to older teens and adults for this reason. It’s imperative that patients keep up with their aligners so that they don’t have to be replaced, making their cost higher and treatment time longer.

When an Invisalign tray doesn’t fit perfectly, it may cause some pain or discomfort to the gums and cheeks. If this happens, be sure to contact your dentist immediately to have a new tray created.

Invisalign Dentist in Woolgoolga

Invisalign clear aligners can help patients with all types of orthodontic needs. If you’re ready to begin the journey to a perfectly aligned, beautiful smile, call our friendly dental team today at (02) 6654-0650. Our expert dentists are prepared to help you achieve the smile of your dreams through compassionate dental care.

Oct 23
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illustration of root canal therapy

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

So, you’ve been told you need root canal therapy. There are probably one hundred questions running through your mind, or maybe you don’t know which questions to ask! Although root canals have a reputation for being dreadful, the procedure is simple, comfortable, and extremely beneficial.

Root canal therapy allows patients to keep their natural tooth while eliminating the infected pulp inside of it.  This permits the patient to maintain chewing and biting force, keep a natural appearance, and protect his or her mouth from further infection.

To help prepare patients for their root canal treatment, we’ve answered five of the most frequently asked questions about root canal therapy in this blog.

1. What are the most common reasons for root canal therapy?

There are several reasons a patient may need a root canal, including:

  • Deep decay caused by untreated cavities
  • Having several procedures done on the same tooth
  • A poorly fitted crown
  • Severe crack or chip in the tooth
  • Injury caused by car accident, sports injury, etc.

The bottom line is that any time the pulp of the tooth is damaged or infected, root canal therapy is one of the most practical and effective solutions.

2. How painful is a root canal?

One of the most common misconceptions about root canals is that they are painful. While that may have been the case in the past, modern technology has made this treatment about as painless as having a cavity filled. In fact, the infection or damage is much more painful than the treatment.

3. Is it better to have the tooth extracted?

Because root canal therapy saves the natural tooth, it is a much better option than pulling out the tooth. Prosthetic teeth cannot replace the look and strength of the natural tooth and people who choose to have the tooth extracted will most likely need to have the tooth replaced with a bridge. These may not last long, but root-canaled teeth typically last a lifetime.

4. What happens during the procedure?

After taking X-rays, the dentist numbs the area with local anesthesia and places a rubber dam around the tooth to keep it dry.

Then, he accesses the pulp of the tooth to remove the bacteria and decay with root canal files. Water or sodium hypochlorite is sprayed throughout the inner tooth to flush away the debris.

During a second appointment, the dentist fills the tooth with a biocompatible material called gutta percha, then seals the tooth. If necessary, he will reinforce the tooth with a dental crown.

5. How can I avoid another root canal therapy in the future?

Avoiding another root canal is simple: amp up your oral hygiene routine. This is especially important for patients who had a root canal due to dental decay. However, a good oral hygiene routine keeps all types of oral health problems away.

Here’s what your oral hygiene routine should consist of:

  • Brushing in the morning and evening
  • Flossing daily
  • Using an antibacterial mouthwash
  • Eating properly
  • Visiting the dentist every six months

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Whether you need root canal therapy or its time to schedule your dental clean, our team at Magic Smiles is prepared to help. If you’re nervous about a procedure, ask us about our sedation methods.

Call (02) 6654-0650 to schedule your appointment today.

Oct 13
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parts of dental implant

What can implants do for me?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

There are various reasons why patients are missing teeth, including medical conditions, gum disease, accidents, and medication use. Regardless of the cause, these individuals want to achieve a beautiful, natural look. At Magic Smiles, we use dental implants to give our patients a brand-new smile that they’ll love. 

During a consultation, our dentists examine your mouth to determine if implants are the right choice for you. We check the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone to see if your oral health is optimal. If not, our dental team can resolve any underlying issues to make sure that your implant surgery is successful. Before choosing the treatment, patients should understand how the restoration can benefit them.

Restore Appearance

Anybody with missing teeth knows how much it can affect the appearance. Patients might look older and more worn. Additionally, for some people with many missing teeth, the entire shape of their mouth can change. Patients with lost teeth might feel insecure about their looks, shy away from smiling, and might not want to participate in social settings. 

When patients are ready to boost their self-esteem, dental implants are an ideal solution. The replaced teeth provide a beautiful, seamless smile that will look natural. After the treatment, you’ll love the way your teeth look so much that you won’t be able to stop smiling and showing off your new teeth.

Restore Function

One of the biggest downfalls of tooth loss is the fact that you aren’t able to chew and bite down properly. This can affect a patient’s ability to eat their favorite foods. They may only be able to eat softer foods and miss out on eating a wide selection of items. Consequently, with such limited choices, patients might end up suffering from vitamin and mineral deficiencies. These individuals might begin to experience health problems that will also need to be resolved.

Since dental implants replace missing teeth, function is restored. The teeth align naturally, so you are able to bite down and chew with ease. 

Provide Stability

Compared to treatments like dentures, dental implants provide greater stability. Since the titanium post fuses with the jawbone, patients get that extra security to ensure the implant stays in place. Your dentist places a restoration like a crown to ensure that your implant is stable and performs like a natural tooth. Best of all, you don’t have to worry about it shifting or moving when talking or eating.

Provide Permanency

While there are some temporary types of restorative treatments for missing teeth, they can be a hassle. Just imagine if your missing teeth are replaced permanently, and you don’t have to worry about things like putting in or taking out dentures.  The beauty of implants is that they provide permanency since once they’re placed, they remain.

Of course, you should visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure your implants are performing as they should. Overall, the titanium post that’s placed in the jaw is designed to last a lifetime. 

Schedule a Consultation

When you’re ready to learn more about dental implants and to see how they can benefit you, contact one of our three offices to schedule a consultation. You can reach our Woolgoolga office at (02) 6654-0650 or the Coffs Harbour practice at (02) 6652-3242. Patients can also contact us online for more information.

Oct 08
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dental bridge illustration

The Pros and Cons of a Traditional Dental Bridge

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Though there are several options for replacing missing teeth, dental bridges are among the most popular restorative treatments. A traditional dental bridge—the most common type—is made up of two dental crowns with one, two, or three prosthetic teeth suspended in the middle. There are three other types of dental bridges: the Maryland bridge, cantilever bridge, and an implant-supported bridge.

Each bridge comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, but for this blog, we’ll focus on the traditional dental bridge.

Here are the pros and cons of traditional dental bridges:

Advantages of a Traditional Dental Bridge

A traditional dental bridge offers several benefits to patients with one, two, or three missing teeth in a row. Aesthetically, the bridge is carefully crafted by a dental lab technician so that it matches the rest of your smile perfectly. Only you and your dentist will know it isn’t real!

Oftentimes, missing teeth affect a person’s ability to chew and speak properly. Dental bridges restore those functions by permanently replacing those missing teeth. Although patients may want to reduce their consumption of sticky foods, there are no food restrictions associated with dental bridges.

When a person has a missing tooth, there is a high probability that the neighboring teeth will shift towards the gap. This can cause a domino effect throughout the mouth. dental bridges fill that gap to keep the rest of the patient’s teeth in proper position.

A traditional dental bridge may also help reduce jawbone deterioration which leads to facial atrophy, though dental implants are a more effective solution to this issue.

Finally, patients prefer dental bridges because they are fixed in the mouth, unlike dentures. This provides stability, security, and a simple cleaning process. Dental bridges can be treated just like your regular teeth—brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist every six months.

Disadvantages of a Traditional Dental Bridge

When considering a dental bridge, it’s important to have all the facts—even the not-so-good ones! Thankfully, the disadvantages of a dental bridge are few and many of them are avoidable when you choose an experienced and trusted dentist.

The disadvantages of dental bridges include:

  • Risk of decay under an ill-fitting crown
  • Removal of enamel from the healthy neighboring teeth
  • Risk of failure if the neighboring teeth aren’t strong enough
  • Won’t last forever
  • Don’t replace the tooth root

While dental bridges can last up to 15 years, they aren’t considered a permanent solution.

More Tooth Replacement Options

Not sold on a dental bridge? Continue your research by looking into other tooth replacement options like dentures and dental implants.

While dentures are a more affordable option, dental implants offer incredible benefits and last a lifetime. They’re both worth considering!

Restorative Dentistry in Woolgoolga

At Magic Smiles, we prioritize patient comfort and satisfaction. Our vision for a family-friendly dental practice means that your needs are more important than our profits. That’s why you can expect to be treated with the utmost respect and high-quality care.

When it comes to restorative dentistry, we offer dental bridges, dental implants, and dentures. Based on your unique dental situation, preferences, and budget, we will recommend your best option and simply leave the final decision to you.

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

Oct 01
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Preventive Dentistry: The Benefits of Regular Dental Cleans

By Preventative Dentistry No Comments

Dental cleans are extremely underrated. Though your parents may have expressed the importance, many adults don’t prioritize their oral health and often skip out on six-month dental visits. Unfortunately, this can have serious oral and overall health consequences. For patients who do attend these appointments, the benefits are obvious!

While brushing and flossing at home is important, six-month dental cleans should be a part of everyone’s oral hygiene routine. Read this blog to learn about the oral and overall health benefits of regular dental cleans.

1. Prevents serious dental problems

Though you may consider yourself an expert brusher, and even if you are one of the few people who floss twice a day, disease-causing bacteria can still attack your teeth and gums. It is nearly impossible for a person to reach every nook and cranny of their mouth, but a dental professional has the eye and mobility to clean the surface of every tooth and soft tissue in the mouth.

Attending regular dental cleans helps patients avoid cavities and gum disease. When dentists thoroughly clean the mouth, they remove the bacteria that can fester and attack the teeth and gums. In the long run, these appointments can save you from unnecessary pain and other symptoms of decay and disease.

2. Saves money

This isn’t necessarily a health benefit, but it is one that we don’t want to overlook! Most dental insurances cover the cost of two dental cleans per year. However, patients who don’t have insurance will certainly still save.

The cost of restorative dentistry is typically much more expensive than preventive because it takes more materials and time. Save yourself and your wallet the pain by attending regular dental cleans every six months.

3. Improved aesthetics

Tired of your stained, yellow teeth? Attending regular dental cleans helps remove dental stains caused by foods and beverages. During these appointments, your dentist may also recommend a different toothpaste and other tips to keep your smile bright.

4. Freshens breath

Bad breath is embarrassing—you know it if you’ve had it or been around someone who did. Consistent bad breath shouldn’t be remedied with gum and mints that may actually make the problem worse. When you attend a regular dental clean, your dentist can identify and remove the underlying problem. If further treatment is necessary, he or she will let you know.

5. Reduces overall health issues

Researchers and scientists are finally letting us in on a major secret—the health of our mouths impacts our whole bodies. It may be surprising to know that gum disease can affect your heart, but it’s true! This is just one of the many reasons why good oral hygiene is so important.

Attending regular dental cleans appointments help reduce your risk of developing these overall health problems:

  • Stroke
  • Heart attack
  • Diabetes
  • Premature birth
  • Low birth weight
  • Dementia
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Sjogren’s syndrome
  • Head and neck cancers

This benefit alone makes visiting the dentist twice a year more than worth it!

Dental Cleans in Woolgoolga

Ready to restore your oral health? Our team at Magic Smiles is ready to help! We provide comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages. Our state-of-the-art dental equipment and compassionate dental team ensures you receive the quality of dental care you deserve.

Call (02) 6653-1788 to schedule your dental cleans appointment today.

Sep 18
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beautiful transformed smile with veneers

Can veneers transform my smile?

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

Who doesn’t want a beautiful, dazzling smile? A great smile starts with straight, white teeth, but what if your teeth are less than perfect? For these patients, our team at Magic Smiles offers veneers. This cosmetic treatment seamlessly improves the appearance of teeth.

Porcelain veneers are thin, strong shells that our dentist places on the surface of teeth. They are strong and durable to perform like your normal teeth. Best of all, your teeth will look and feel natural.

Who Are the Best Candidates?

The best candidates for veneers are people who have minor cosmetic issues. If your teeth are extremely crooked, misaligned, or broken, there are other treatment options available. In our practice, we use veneers for the following:

  • Small gaps
  • Small chips and breaks
  • Misshapen and crooked teeth
  • Stained teeth that are resistant to whitening

Additionally, patients should have healthy teeth and gums. If you have cavities or gum disease, the dentist needs to treat these oral health problems before you can get the treatment. This cosmetic procedure also works better for individuals who don’t clench or grind their teeth. During a consultation, our dentist can determine if veneers are the right choice to meet your needs.

What Happens During Installation?

The installation process is straightforward and involves two separate appointments. During your first visit, the doctor removes a small amount of enamel from the tooth’s surface. By removing the enamel, the dentist is making room for the veneer to fit appropriately.

Once your teeth are prepped, the doctor makes impressions, takes photos, and x-rays. The images and impressions are sent to the lab. At the laboratory, the technicians make your permanent veneers.

In some cases, the dentist might place temporary veneers while the permanent restoration is customized at the lab. Once your permanent restoration is ready, you will return to the dentist. The doctor first checks that the fit, shape, and color are correct before placing. He or she can make any need adjustments at this time. The doctor uses a strong bond to attach the veneers.

How Will I Feel Afterward?

After the treatment, it’s normal for patients to experience some discomfort and soreness. This usually subsides within a few days, and patients can take over-the-counter pain relievers to minimize any symptoms. The teeth might feel sensitive, so you might have to watch what you eat and drink. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions to minimize any symptoms.

How Do I Care for my Veneers?

Veneers are long-lasting and can last up to 20 years or even longer in some cases. To get the most out of your new veneers, you should care for them like you would your natural teeth. This includes brushing and flossing daily. Patients should also be cognizant of the foods they eat to minimize the chance of any chips or breaks.

Patients should visit their dentist regularly for check-ups. In case your teeth suffer any wear or tear, your doctor can fix or replace your veneers to restore your smile.

Schedule a Consultation

If you want to find out if dental veneers are right for you, you can contact our team to schedule a consultation. Our dentist examines your mouth and gums to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure. Give us a call at (02) 6654-0650 to speak to one of our knowledgeable team members.

 

 

 

Sep 09
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5 Reasons You May Need A Dental Crown

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Each time a dentist places a dental crown, their goal is to restore the look and function of the damaged tooth. Dental crowns are popular restorative options because they are extremely effective, durable, and versatile. Most dentists offer several types of dental crowns, such as all-ceramic, metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and zirconia. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The patient and dentist will work together to choose the material that works best for the patient’s lifestyle and smile.

Not sure if you need a crown? Here are five reasons why your dentist may suggest a dental crown:

1. Large cavity

Cavities can create large holes in a tooth when not treated early enough. In cases like these, a dentist will clean out and fill the cavity, but the surrounding tooth structure may still be weak. When that occurs, a crown is used to protect the rest of the tooth from breaking.

2. Broken cusps

The cusp of a tooth is the pointed part of the biting surface used to break up foods. These are typically broken when a person chews on things like ice or crunchy foods often. Though these types of cracks or breaks aren’t usually painful at first, they enhance a person’s risk of further breakage, tooth decay, and disease. It is important for patients to seek dental treatment for a broken cusp as soon as possible. In many cases, the dentist will recommend a dental crown.

3. Excessive wear

Bruxism (teeth grinding), acid reflux, and consuming large amounts of highly acidic foods can cause teeth to wear over time. Sometimes this process is quick and other times, teeth wear from years of neglect. Patients eventually notice that their teeth aren’t as sharp or as long as they once were.

Dentists will place a dental crown over the damaged tooth along with treating the underlying cause of the tooth wear. For example, if bruxism has caused the damage, your dentist may recommend wearing a nightguard to protect your teeth while sleeping.

4. Root canal

A patient may need root canal therapy for any of the following reasons:

  • Severe decay
  • Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
  • A faulty crown
  • A severe chip or crack in the tooth

Regardless of the reason, once the procedure is complete, the dentist will most likely place a dental crown on top of the root-canaled tooth to reinforce the tooth’s strength and function. The natural tooth serves as a pillar for the crown, keeping it secured and supported.

5. Dental implants

When a patient wants to replace a missing tooth, most dentists recommend dental implants. This tooth-replacement option is one of the safest, most durable, and natural-looking options available.

The procedure consists of placing a titanium, screw-like rod through the gums and into the jawbone—this acts as the tooth root. Once healed, the dentist will place an abutment that secures the crown to the implant. To replace more than one missing tooth, the patient may choose an implant-supported dental bridge or denture.

Dental Crown in Woolgoolga

Not sure if you need a dental crown? Visit your local dentist for an initial consultation to learn about your restorative options.

Our gentle and experienced dentists are prepared to create a dental crown that restores function and completes your smile. To schedule your initial consultation, call (02) 6654-0650.

Sep 04
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woman with Invisalign

Are Invisalign® clear aligners as great as they seem?

By Invisalign No Comments

What hinders a smile more than gaps and misalignment? Bulky, metal braces. Should the solution to a problem add to it, even if just for a little bit? While the saying, “it will get worse before it gets better” applies to some situations, it doesn’t have to apply to orthodontics.

Invisalign clear aligners offer a discreet solution to gapped, crowded, and misaligned teeth. Though this incredible product has been around for decades now, it has never been as effective as it is today. Rarely do dentists have a patient who isn’t a candidate for clear aligners.

Want to know more? Check out the rest of this blog to learn why Invisalign is one of the best orthodontic and cosmetic dentistry options for your smile.

1. Less time at the dentist’s office

With traditional braces, patients must visit the dentist regularly to have their wires or rubber bands tightened. This is extremely inconvenient for adults and teenagers who so often have packed schedules.

Because Invisalign patients don’t have brackets and wires, they don’t have to attend these appointments. Additionally, the Invisalign treatment program allows patients to receive trays for several phases of their treatments which can last for months. This means, they only need to visit the dentist for progress checks or if something is wrong with their aligner.

2. Easier maintenance

Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners can be removed. This makes them much easier to clean and enables patients to clean their teeth thoroughly before replacing the aligner. Patients who choose Invisalign are less likely to suffer from cavities, gum disease, and dental staining when they care for their mouth properly. However, it is important to note that patients must be willing to clean their teeth after every meal so that bad bacteria don’t fester beneath the aligner.

3. Discreet appearance

Undoubtedly, the number one reason patients want Invisalign is because of its discreet appearance. Traditional braces, though much less bulky now than they used to be, are obvious and distracting. Clear aligners may be somewhat noticeable, but they are completely invisible, so patients can go about their days feeling confident about their appearance and that their smile is getting more and more beautiful by the day.

4. More comfort

Brackets, wires, and rubber bands can be extremely painful and uncomfortable, especially right after placement and tightening appointments. These elements often irritate patients’ cheeks, lips, and gums.

Invisalign technology eliminates those irritants and provides patients with a smooth appliance that works just as effectively. However, in some cases, patients with Invisalign still need to wear rubber bands, so don’t be surprised if your dentist recommends them.

5. No food restrictions

Braces may inhibit a person’s ability to eat certain foods and most dentists recommend that patients avoid crunchy foods that could harm their brackets. With Invisalign, there are no such restrictions. Patients simply remove their aligners while eating—the biggest issue here is that some people forget to put their aligners back in or accidentally throw the aligner away! Yikes!

Your Invisalign Dentists in Woolgoolga

At Magic Smiles, we desire to help patients achieve healthy AND beautiful smiles. Invisalign is just one of the many ways we do that. To learn if you are a suitable candidate for Invisalign, contact our friendly dental team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule your initial consultation.

Aug 31
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happy little boy smiling

Children’s Dentistry: Why It’s Important and What It Looks Like

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Like all aspects of your child’s health, oral health is extremely important. Children are just as susceptible to decay and gum disease as adults but neglecting their teeth can gum can lead to developmental issues as well. When children don’t have healthy teeth, it becomes more difficult to chew and speak. This can lead to malnutrition, a speech impediment, and even bullying.

Children’s dentistry aims to eliminate these issues mostly by providing preventative treatments for kids of all ages. According to the Australian Dental Association, parents should bring their children to the dentist by age one or by the time their first tooth erupts. Continue reading to learn about our preventative children’s dentistry treatments and how they can help your little one achieve optimal oral health.

Regular Dental Cleans and Exams

For children, visiting the dentist every six months (sometimes even more often) is essential. During regular dental cleans and exams, a dental hygienist and the dentist will clean and examine the child’s teeth and gums. These professionals use a keen eye and gentle hand to find and treat signs of decay or gum disease.

These appointments may consist of x-rays if necessary. Additionally, the children’s dentist may also recommend one of our other preventative treatments.

Fluoride Treatments

This naturally occurring mineral strengthens dental enamel so it can stand against disease-causing bacteria that lead to decay. Typically, fluoride is brushed onto each tooth; as it sits on the teeth, it absorbs into them. Patients should avoid eating and drinking anything for 30 minutes after their fluoride treatment.

Though there is controversy over the amount of fluoride that can be used on children’s teeth, our dentists ensure that your child is only exposed to a safe and agreed-upon level of fluoride. Remember, your child’s oral health and the appearance of their smile is our top priority!

Dental Sealants

One of the best ways to prevent cavities is to ask your dentist to apply dental sealants to your child’s molars. This biocompatible plastic is thinly layered over the top of the molars where cavities are most prevalent. The substance creates a seal on top of the teeth that disease-causing bacteria can’t infiltrate.

Education

A major benefit of children’s dentistry is that the parents and kids are educated on oral health. It is particularly important for parents to understand the signs of decay in their little ones’ mouths. This may look like white patches on the gums or discolored teeth.

Your children’s dentist will also educate you on how to care for your infant’s or toddler’s teeth while they still require your help. During these regular dental visits, you will learn about the proper brushing and flossing techniques, which types of toothpastes are appropriate, and the good eating and drinking habits for your child to maintain a beautiful smile throughout his or her lifetime.

Parents will also learn how to react in case of dental trauma, such as if a tooth gets knocked out during a sporting event.

Children’s Dentistry in Woolgoolga

If you’re searching for a dentist that will treat both you and your child with respect, care, and enthusiasm, our team at Magic Smiles is for you. We’re passionate about caring for patients of all ages, especially entire families! We love working with parents to help their child gain and maintain optimal oral health for years to come.

Contact our friendly team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our children’s dentistry specialists.

Aug 19
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illustration of missing front teeth

Got missing teeth? Here are your restorative options!

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

A full, beautiful smile comes with many benefits, including higher self-esteem which significantly impacts every area of a person’s life. While having all your teeth doesn’t necessarily equal good oral health, missing teeth certainly indicates poor oral health.

This is because just one missing tooth raises a person’s risk of gum disease, cavities, tooth movement, and jawbone atrophy. The gums become more susceptible to disease-causing bacteria, the neighboring teeth begin to move towards the gap, and the jawbone in that area is no longer stimulated, therefore, it diminishes.

Thankfully, most dentists offer several ways to solve these problems through restorative dentistry. At Magic Smiles, our goal is to restore your smile so you can live a better, more fulfilling life. To do this, we offer dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants to our patients with missing teeth.

Continue reading to learn how each of these restorative dentistry options can complete your smile.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge literally “bridges” the gap between teeth. Two crowns on either side of the one, two, or three missing teeth, hold the bridge in place. These offer stability and permanency that patients don’t usually experience with dentures.

Dental bridges are most beneficial to patients with minor to moderate tooth loss. They will certainly restore function, boost self-esteem, and reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities, but will not help with jawbone atrophy. Additionally, patients with scattered missing teeth or an entire arch of missing teeth would benefit more from other restorative options.

To place the dental bridge, patients must be in good oral health and commit to maintaining good oral hygiene. Furthermore, the patient should have two healthy teeth on either side of the missing teeth. The dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the patient’s natural teeth and fit the custom dental crowns on top of them.

Dentures

Our custom dentures are a great option for patients with several missing teeth throughout their smile or a full arch of missing teeth. Our prosthetist, Harry Ramana, creates both full and partial dentures in our office.

Partial dentures can be made from several materials, including acrylic and metal. These are held in place by small metal clasps that attach to the patient’s remaining natural teeth.

Full dentures are an aesthetically pleasing option for patients missing all their teeth on the top and/or bottom arches. Along with filling in their smile, full dentures also fill out the cheeks to reduce the sunken-in appearance that comes with missing teeth. Suction and dentures adhesives hold the full dentures in place.

We also offer permanent or removable implant-supported dentures.

Dental Implants

If you’re looking for a restorative option that most resembles natural teeth, dental implants are the answer. These small, titanium rods take the place of the missing tooth roots and can support a dental crown, bridge, partial denture, or full denture.

Dental implants provide optimal stability, fully restored function, and long-lasting results. One of the greatest advantages of this option is that the implants stimulate the jawbone to undo and prevent jawbone atrophy.

Though the process of placing dental implants is significantly longer than other restorative options, most dentists agree that the time is worth it. The dental implant procedure is highly successful, and patients rarely experience complications afterward. Once complete, patients reap the benefits for decades to come.

To learn if you are a candidate for dental implants, contact our team today to schedule an initial consultation.

Restorative Dentistry for Missing Teeth in Woolgoolga

At Magic Smiles, our team of experienced and gentle dentists is prepared to restore your smile back to health, function, and beauty. To discuss your restorative options, call our office today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation.