Sep 19
Love0

5 Surprising Facts about Baby Teeth from Your Children’s Dentistry Provider

By Dental Checkup No Comments

Teething is a milestone for every baby and parent. Though it doesn’t seem possible, as your child’s gummy smile transforms into a toothy grin, he becomes cuter than ever before. Unfortunately, children’s dentistry is not discussed as frequently as other topics, like feeding and sleep. Many parents, for instance, are not aware that babies should have dental checkups as soon as their first teeth appear.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we proudly provide quality care for patients of all ages. 

Read on to learn some fascinating and little-known facts about baby teeth. Then contact us to schedule an appointment for your child.

1. Teeth Are One of the First Things to Grow in the Womb.

While the heartbeat is one of the first developments for an unborn baby, the growth of baby teeth is not far behind. Teeth begin forming as early as six week’s gestation. At this time, dental lamina form tooth buds, which will later grow into teeth. Around 3 to 4 months in utero, hard tissue begins to form. 

When a baby is born, she already has all 20 baby teeth below the gum line! 

2. Some Babies Are Born with Teeth.

In about 1 out of every 2,000 to 3,000 births, babies are born with teeth. These are called natal teeth and are most often normal teeth that have simply erupted early. They can, however, cause complications with nursing, and they may be weaker than teeth that develop on a more regular timeline. But sometimes they cause no complications whatsoever.

3. Some Babies Have Extra Teeth.

3.8% of the population is born with hyperdontia, a condition that causes extra teeth to develop. Many times, only a dental professional can diagnose hyperdontia in infants since the extra teeth tend to look normal and align with the rest of the teeth. Nonetheless, it is important to diagnose this condition, as it can cause problems with normal dental alignment and development.

4. Baby Teeth Are More Susceptible to Cavities Than Adult Teeth.

Enamel forms the outer layer of teeth and helps to prevent cavities. In babies, however, the enamel layer is thinner, meaning children are more prone to tooth decay than their parents! In fact, 42% of Australian children have experienced decay in their baby teeth.

5. Baby Teeth Play an Important Role in the Development of Adult Teeth.

Baby teeth act as placeholders for adult teeth. If your child loses teeth too early, they could suffer from pronounced misalignment later down the road. In addition, children who experience dental decay are more likely to develop cavities as adults. 

This is why early dental care is so vital. To prevent cavities, brush your little one’s teeth twice a day, and begin flossing as soon as she has two teeth that touch. You should also begin biannual dental checkups no later than age one, or whenever teeth start to come in, whichever comes first. 

Schedule an Appointment with a Children’s Dentistry Expert

To learn more about baby teeth and to protect your favorite little smile, contact our practice today.

Sep 13
Love0
A woman puts a clear aligner in her mouth after visiting an Invisalign doctor in New South Wales.

How to Choose the Best Invisalign® Doctor Near You

By Invisalign No Comments

You’re ready to straighten your smile and enhance your appearance with Invisalign®  treatments. Congratulations on taking the leap! But, now you might be faced with a dilemma: choosing the best Invisalign doctor near you.

 

With so many options available to patients, it can feel overwhelming to find the right dentist to help you correct a crooked smile. At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, however, we make it easy. 

 

Our experienced team members, advanced technology, and contemporary techniques make our dental clinics in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW, the top-ranking locations for all of your smile and Invisalign needs. Simply send our team a message to schedule your consultation with our Invisalign doctor today!

 

Meanwhile, let our team give you tips and tricks on how to find an expert Invisalign doctor near you. Using this information could save you money on your unique treatment plan.

Look for Experienced Invisalign Doctors

Invisalign treatments can be costly for patients and dentists alike. Therefore, Invisalign offers incentives to dentists who provide Invisalign smile-correcting systems in their practices. This allows Invisalign doctors to reduce their overhead, which saves them money in the long term.

 

The idea of incentive programs is to help dentists pass the savings on to their patients. So, the longer a dentist has been offering Invisalign, the more likely they are to offer reduced rates.

 

At Magic Smiles, our team of experts has been offering smile-enhancing Invisalign treatments for years. This means that we are ready, willing, and able to make clear aligners more affordable and accessible to patients from all backgrounds.

Consider a Specialist

When it comes to getting a perfectly straight and beautiful smile, patients should consider a specialist, like an orthodontist. An orthodontist has unique training in correcting numerous alignment issues. As a result, patients can get highly-personalized care that doesn’t require additional expertise when they visit an orthodontist.

 

The team at Magic Smiles knows that you and your family are busy. That’s why we offer a wide range of dental specialists, including a licensed and experienced orthodontist. So, when you choose our team, you’re choosing convenient, comprehensive care in a single, friendly location.

A Great Invisalign Doctor Should Have Great Technology

Dental technology is constantly improving, which allows Invisalign doctors to deliver more effective and comfortable care. However, if a dentist is using old technology, then you may not be getting the best results from clear-aligner systems.

 

At Magic Smiles, we prioritize your care and comfort by staying current on all the latest dental technology and trends. Using advanced software (like Digital Smile Design), our team can intricately plan each step of your treatment. Not only that, but this cutting-edge technology allows our team to show you what your straightened smile will look like before you even begin Invisalign. Talk about advanced technology!

Looking for an Invisalign doctor near you? We can help!

Stop searching for a needle in a haystack and start calling the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. Our team of skilled professionals has the credentials, expertise, and technology to give you the perfectly straight, tailor-made smile of your dreams. 

 

New and existing patients can schedule their Invisalign consultations by sending our team a message here.

 

Sep 12
Love0
Girl slips clear aligner over her teeth after visiting an Invisalign doctor in New South Wales

Looking for an Orthodontist in Coffs Harbour?

By Orthodontics No Comments

The benefits of properly aligned teeth range from improved appearance and self-confidence to better oral health and function. If you’re searching for a great orthodontist in Coffs Harbour, you may already know the benefits of straight teeth. But do you know the difference between choosing an orthodontist versus an orthodontics provider?

“Orthodontics” refers to the movement of teeth with traditional braces or an alternative system, such as clear aligner therapy. An orthodontist is a specialist in orthodontics.

All dental specialists, like periodontists and orthodontists, must first become general dentists. From there, a general dentist may opt to become a specialist and undergo the required additional two years of intense training in one specialty area. 

General dentists who don’t become specialists can focus on specific treatments through continuing education. Dr. Arpit Pathak of Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Center focuses his continuing education on orthodontics, namely clear aligner therapy. While he is completely trained and competent in providing clear aligner orthodontics to Coffs Harbour patients, he is not an orthodontist.  

What is clear aligner therapy?

A Coffs Harbour orthodontist will usually offer traditional braces with brackets, wires, and bands. In contrast, clear aligner therapy, like Invisalign, uses a series of custom-made, transparent aligners that shift teeth a predetermined amount. For instance, aligner A will move teeth toward their ideal position for aligner B to begin. Once that position is reached, the patient will discard aligner A and move to aligner B. Then he will wear each  consecutive aligner for approximately 2 weeks before moving to the next. 

Traditional orthodontics usually takes about 2 years to produce desired results. Clear aligners, on the other hand, can take from six to 18 months to complete a treatment plan. No “tightening” appointments are necessary, and the patient will not have to worry about painful sores caused by metal components in the mouth.

Does clear aligner therapy work for all orthodontics patients?

Clear aligner therapy is well suited for simple cosmetic cases, but it can be effective for improving a patient’s bite, or occlusion, as well. Aligners are ideal for teenagers and adults. Children are best served by traditional orthodontics.

What are the benefits of clear aligner therapy compared to traditional braces?

  • Inconspicuousness – Instead of metal brackets and wires, you’ll wear clear, comfortable, acrylic aligners that are barely noticeable. 
  • Ability to remove aligners – Having your picture taken? Giving a presentation? Simply remove your aligners for the special event, then put them back on afterward.
  • Easy to clean teeth and aligners – Remove your aligners to brush and floss your teeth, and to clean the trays.
  • No mouth sores from metal components – Comfortable, flexible acrylic won’t irritate soft oral tissues.
  • Shorter treatment time, in most cases – Treatment time is generally six to 18 months, whereas braces usually take two years.
  • No dietary restrictions – Because the clear aligners are removable, you’ll have no dietary restrictions at all. 

Need an orthodontist in Coffs Harbour?

As an orthodontics provider, Dr. Arpit Pathak and the team at Magic Smiles will help you achieve and maintain straight teeth, for a head-turning smile! Call our dental office today in Coffs Harbour at (02) 6652-3242 to schedule your clear aligner consultation.

Aug 31
Love0

Gentle Dentist Explains: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Sedation

By Sedation Dentistry No Comments

Going to the dentist shouldn’t be cause for alarm. But if you are one of the millions who suffer from dental anxiety, the experience can be pretty overwhelming. Fortunately, when you choose a compassionate, experienced, and gentle dentist, dental care can be smooth and stress-free. Plus, sedation dentistry can further calm your nerves and make your appointment go by in the blink of an eye!

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we offer three types of sedation. We will discuss your options prior to your appointment, helping you to select the best sedation method for your needs.

To learn more about sedation or to ask any additional questions not covered here, please contact a member of our team.

Who is a candidate for dental sedation?

1 in 6 adults and 1 in 10 children suffer from dental anxiety. 5% of Australians suffer from more severe dental phobia. Patients with anxiety may experience heart palpitations, sweating, nausea, or difficulty sleeping the night before a dental visit. Dental phobia can be crippling, causing patients to delay necessary dental care for years. 

Your dentist will need to check with your physician if you suffer from certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or respiratory disease. However, with careful monitoring, many patients with these conditions are still able to receive sedation. 

Dental sedation is also appropriate for patients who do not have anxiety but are preparing for a lengthier procedure, such as an extraction or implant surgery.

What are the different types of sedation?

At Magic Smiles, we have three sedation options.

  • Nitrous oxide: This odorless, colorless gas is also known as “happy gas” or “laughing gas.” You will inhale it through a face mask, while a member of our team carefully monitors the amount you receive, making adjustments as needed. 
  • Penthrox®: Penthrox, the brand name for methoxyflurane, is another clear inhaled gas with similar effects to nitrous oxide.
  • Oral sedation: If you suffer from more intense dental anxiety, oral sedation may be the solution. We will prescribe anti-anxiety medications, which will make you extremely relaxed so that you may even fall asleep during your treatment. 

Is sedation safe?

Yes! Dental sedation has very few side effects. The few effects it does have – such as nausea and sleepiness – are very mild and wear off quickly. Moreover, we closely adhere to the sedation guidelines provided by the Australian Dental Association. 

Can kids receive dental sedation?

Absolutely! Children need lower doses of medication, but when they are given the right amounts, sedation is safe for little patients. 

The Australian and New Zealand Society of Paediatric Dentistry reminds parents of the importance of fasting prior to a child receiving sedation. We are happy to provide further instructions about preparing your child for his or her appointment.

Schedule an Appointment with a Gentle Dentist 

With our personalized, compassionate approach, there is no reason to delay your dental care. Contact us to learn more about sedation or to book an appointment.

Aug 24
Love0

Dentists in Coffs Harbour Explain Teething and What New Parents Should Expect

By Oral Health No Comments

New parenthood is a wild ride, and few words instill as much trepidation as “teething.” But what exactly should you expect? Our dentists in Coffs Harbour understand your concern about your child’s oral health. We want to guide you through this important stage of growing up, helping both you and your baby to feel more comfortable. 

Most importantly, at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we want your baby to enjoy a healthy smile for life. When it is time for his or her first visit, we will conduct a gentle, thorough cleaning and provide tips for good oral hygiene at home. 

Whether you have questions about teething or you want to schedule an appointment for your child, contact our office today.

When does a baby start teething? 

On average, a baby will get his or her first tooth around the age of 6 months. However, this can vary greatly from child to child. Some babies will begin teething as early as 4 months, while others may not start until closer to a year. 

How long does it take for baby teeth to come in?

Every child has 20 baby teeth, which should all erupt by the time he or she is about three years old. 

It usually takes about 8 days for each tooth to come in fully – 4 days before the tooth appears and 3 days afterwards. During this time, teething symptoms will be most pronounced.

What are the symptoms of teething? 

Teething tends to cause certain common symptoms. Unfortunately, a large percentage of parents ascribe serious, non-related symptoms to teething. Common signs of teething include:

  • Red, sore gums
  • Rubbing ears
  • Flushed cheeks
  • Dribbling and chewing on things more than usual
  • Fussiness
  • Interrupted sleep
  • A low temperature of less than 38 degrees

If your child has a higher temperature, diarrhoea, or other problems, you should contact your pediatrician. 

How can I ease my child’s discomfort? 

Aside from extra snuggles, there are several ways to help reduce teething symptoms. These include:

  • Chilled teethers (Do not freeze them, as this can make them too hard.)
  • Gentle gum massages, using your fingers or a damp cloth
  • Children’s paracetamol (Be sure to check with your doctor about the proper dosage.)

Note that the ACCC has issued a warning against amber teething necklaces, as they can pose a choking hazard. 

How do I care for my baby’s new teeth?

Begin brushing as soon as your baby’s first tooth appears. Use a small, soft-bristled brush. The Australian Dental Association advises parents to use only water for the first months. Do not introduce toothpaste until your child is 18 months old. 

As soon as your child has two adjacent teeth, you should begin flossing. 

When should my baby visit the dentist?

Schedule your child’s first dental visit when the first tooth comes in. Even if he or she does not have any teeth, you should make an appointment by their first birthday.

Schedule an Appointment with Compassionate Dentists in Coffs Harbour

Contact our practice today to make an appointment. We are also happy to answer any teething questions you may have or discuss eligibility for the Child Dental Benefits Scheme.

Aug 10
Love0
historical busts in a museum

Who was the best dentist in history? Six Dentists Everyone Should Know!

By Sedation Dentistry No Comments

How many famous dentists could you name? If you are like most people, not many! So when it comes to naming the best dentist in history, you probably come up short. In reality, there have been many figures who have made vital contributions to the field. Whether they pioneered the science of dentistry itself, introduced dental sedation, or invented cutting-edge techniques in the modern era, the following 6 dentists deserve a place in the history books. 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we are proud to stand on the shoulders of giants. We combine advanced technology, specialized training, and a friendly, compassionate manner to provide the highest level of care. 

Though we may not claim to be the best dentists in history, many of our loyal patients would say we are the best dentist they’ve ever had. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment. 

1. Hesy-Ra

The first named dentist in history, Hesy-Ra was an important official in Ancient Egypt. One of his many titles is translated alternately as “Great One of the Dentists” and “Great One of the Ivory Cutters.”

2. Pierre Fauchard

Pierre Fauchard, who lived from 1678 to 1761, is known as the “Father of Modern Dentistry.” His influential work, Le Chirurgien Dentiste, detailed everything currently known about oral health and helped make dental care a true science. Prior to Fauchard, most “dental professionals” in Europe were amateur “tooth-pullers” who offered their services at fairs and festivals.

Today, Fauchard is the namesake of the Pierre Fauchard Academy, an organization that recognizes leaders in the dental field.

3. William Morton

Imagine facing dental surgery without any anesthesia. Before William Morton, that is exactly what you would have had to do. Morton was an American physician who lived from 1819 to 1868. In 1846, he gave a public demonstration using inhaled ether (an anesthesia) during surgery. Morton’s display helped make surgical anesthesia an accepted practice.

Unfortunately, he also claimed to be the inventor of anesthesia, a claim which is widely disputed. 

4. Joseph Hyams

Joseph Hyams is considered Australia’s first dentist. A convict, he was sentenced for an unknown crime and sent to the penal colonies in 1813. 

While Hyams deserves a place in Australian history, he certainly would not qualify as the best dentist. Untrained in dentistry, he eventually returned to crime.

5. Annie Praed 

Annie Praed was the first female dentist in Australia. Praed graduated from the University of Sydney in 1906 at the top of her class. After visiting England for a year, she returned to Sydney, where she set up practice with a classmate. She later opened a solo practice and specialized in prosthodontics. Praed was a leader in numerous Australian dental associations before her death in 1948.

6. Per-Ingvar Branemark 

A Swedish physician, Branemark made an accidental discovery that led to the revolutionary invention of dental implants. When researching the effects of blood flow on bone healing, he found that titanium fuses with bone tissue. He called this process osseointegration and realized that titanium could support replacement teeth.

Implants produced and sold by Nobel Biocare are™ known as the Branemark System.

Looking for the Best Dentist in Your Area? Contact Magic Smiles

Whether you are looking for routine preventive care, dental implants, or cosmetic treatment, the dentists at Magic Smiles work hard to provide historically great care!

Contact our office today to book an appointment.

Aug 10
Love0
blonde woman smiling at the camera

Everything You Need to Know About Teeth Whitening in Coffs Harbour

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

Are you interested in brightening your smile but not sure where to start? Our knowledgeable dentists are here to discuss your cosmetic dentistry options for safe, gentle, and effective teeth whitening.  

Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre offers in-office and take-home whitening treatments for quick and convenient teeth whitening results in the Coffs Harbour area.  

How do I get started? 

One of our dentists can explain the benefits of teeth whitening during your periodic dental cleaning and check-up appointment. Teeth whitening works best when your teeth are clean and healthy. In fact, the best time for teeth whitening is after a dental cleaning!

Whitening treatment does not work on existing restorations such as crowns and bridges. Teeth whitening is also not recommended for teeth with decay or gums in need of treatment. Our team can help you prioritize the treatment you need for the brightest smile you deserve. 

What teeth whitening system do you use? 

Our office only uses Philips Zoom, which is the most trusted whitening product on the market. Zoom is also one of the most well-known in-office whitening treatments available. If you are in need of quick results for a special event, Zoom may be the perfect fit.

Philips also offers an extensive line of take-home whitening gels for long-lasting and convenient results. This option is perfect for patients who are unsure of the results they desire or those who need the convenience of at-home whitening.  

What is the process like? 

The Philips Zoom in-office whitening treatment can take several hours to complete. We recommend our patients bring earbuds to listen to music during the treatment. Hands-free entertainment is best. There will be breaks between whitening sessions to stretch your legs. The number of sessions depends on the current shade of your teeth. Our team will be there to make sure your comfort is top priority during these sessions.  

If you want to try Philips take-home whitening kit, a quick appointment to take impressions is necessary. Impressions are used to make molds of your teeth for a custom-fit tray that delivers the right amount of whitening gel. A helpful team member will go over instructions and assist you with trying on the trays to ensure a comfortable fit.  

What results can I expect? 

Whether you choose the in-office Zoom whitening or take-home kit, you can expect to see your smile brightened by several shades. Zoom in-office whitening treatment offers immediate results that continue to work even after you leave the office. To achieve your best results, it is important to follow all the instructions given to you during your appointment. 

For a long-term result that you will continue to love, we recommend you follow-up Zoom whitening with the take-home whitening kit. This is especially helpful if you enjoy drinking dark beverages such as coffee, tea, or wine. We find it is often necessary to continue whitening at home to maintain your brightest smile. 

Schedule Your Teeth Whitening in Coffs Harbour Appointment

When you’re ready to get started, schedule a dental check-up and cleaning. Let our team help you discover the best teeth whitening option to fit your specific needs! Contact us today at one of our three locations. 

Jul 28
Love0

5 Things to Look for When Searching for Dentists in New South Wales, Australia

By Oral Health No Comments

You know that visiting the dentist is a key component of your oral health. But, with nearly 0 practitioners in the area, finding the right dentist can be a challenge. Whether you just moved, or you are simply looking to change dental offices, there are several things to keep in mind as you consider your options. 

When researching dentists in New South Wales, Australia, consider personal recommendations and online reviews. Think about your own particular needs and oral health goals. Most importantly, choose a practice where you feel relaxed and at home. 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we are proud to be a trusted dental home for patients across New South Wales. Contact us to learn more about our services and to find out if we are the right practice for you.

1. Someone who can treat the whole family

Dental care is not only important for adults. 25% of children aged 5 to 10 have untreated cavities in their baby teeth.

Look for a dentist who can treat you and your children in the same place. At Magic Smiles, we can often book you and your kids for back-to-back visits for truly convenient care.

2. A practice that performs comprehensive services

Preventive exams and cleanings are essential components of dentistry. However, should problems arise, you want to have a dentist on call who can treat a wide range of issues. 

At Magic Smiles, we can provide full restorative and cosmetic services, including: 

  • Crowns and bridges
  • Fillings
  • Dentures
  • Dental implants
  • Orthodontics
  • Root canal therapy
  • Dental bonding
  • Teeth whitening 
  • Tooth contouring 
  • Gum contouring

Plus, we see both new and existing patients for timely emergency treatment, minimizing dental damage and discomfort as quickly as possible. 

3. A practice with specialists in house

Even if you love your regular physician, you wouldn’t go to him for brain surgery. Why should it be any different for your oral health? For certain treatments, you want the expertise that only a specialist can provide. 

At Magic Smiles, we have three specialists permanently on staff. 

  • An orthodontist
  • A prosthodontist
  • An oral and maxillofacial surgeon

4. An office that offers sedation

If you fear going to the dentist, you are not alone – approximately 1 in 6 adults suffer from dental anxiety. When going to the dentist sets your heart racing, it’s important to find an understanding practitioner who will do everything possible to put you at ease. 

We go above and beyond, offering several forms of sedation. You can choose from inhaled sedation (either nitrous oxide or Penthrox). Or if you have more severe anxiety, oral sedation is also an option. 

5. Friendly dentists who make you feel at home

When searching for a dentist, the most important consideration is that you feel comfortable and relaxed at the practice you choose. 

At Magic Smiles, we have a warm, welcoming environment. We work hard to keep our schedule efficient and on time, but you will never feel rushed during treatment. Most importantly, our gentle, compassionate hands will ensure a pleasant and stress-free experience.

Contact Us for Outstanding Dentists in New South Wales, Australia 

If you want to enjoy top-notch dental care, make Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre your first stop. 

Contact our office online to schedule an appointment for yourself or your whole family. 

 

Jul 20
Love0
An x-ray image displaying unerupted wisdom teeth

“Do I really need my wisdom teeth removed?” and Other Third-molar FAQS

By Oral Health No Comments

The human mouth typically contains eight molars to help us grind our food before swallowing. However, a third set of molars–known as wisdom teeth–can erupt, causing more harm than good. In order to protect your oral health, a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon may need to remove them.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team of dedicated specialists can help you remove pesky wisdom teeth. If you or a loved one needs a wisdom tooth extraction, then contact our team now. Patients can schedule a consultation at one of our locations in Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbour, NSW, by requesting it online here.

Not sure if you really need a wisdom tooth extraction? No problem! Our team is here to answer commonly asked questions about third molars.

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are an auxiliary set of molars that our ancestors once relied upon to help them mash hard-to-digest foods. Humans today, however, have a significantly different diet compared to our ancestors. As a result, the medical and dental community widely regards these teeth as vestigial–or residual–structures that serve little purpose today.

When do third molars erupt?

Unlike other teeth, third molars typically erupt later in a patient’s life. In fact, research suggests that most wisdom teeth erupt around 17 to 26 years of age. However, it’s not uncommon for patients younger than 17 and older than 26 to develop third molars.

What are some signs that my third molars are impacted?

There are several signs that your third molars might be impacted, such as:

  • Persistent bad breath
  • Swollen and bloody gums
  • Swelling and pain around the jaw
  • Difficulty speaking or yawning

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then contact our team at Magic Smiles as soon as possible. The sooner we remove impacted third molars, the happier and healthier your mouth will be!

Do I really need my wisdom teeth removed?

In some cases, no. Some patients develop wisdom teeth without any issues, while others never develop them at all. However, the majority of patients who do have third molars will need them removed to prevent numerous complications, such as:

  • Impacted teeth
  • Overcrowded teeth
  • Dental infections
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Jaw pain
  • Headaches

What happens if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth?

It depends. If you have wisdom teeth, but you don’t experience any pain or issues with them, then your oral health may remain the same without removing them. However, if you do experience pain and issues with your third molars, then failure to remove them can have devastating results, including:

  • Prolonged pain
  • Dental shifting that can negatively affect your bite alignment
  • Infections that spread to the gum tissue, jawbone, or blood

Patients should have bothersome third molars removed as soon as possible to prevent long-term damage and adverse effects.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Nearly five million people require third molar extractions every year. Are you one of them? Contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today to find out!

Click here to schedule your appointment now. 

Jul 19
Love0
Woman clutches an ice pack to the side of her face before her wisdom teeth removal

Take This Quiz to See How Much You Know about Root Canal Treatment

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

We’ve all heard horror stories about root canal therapy, but how much do you really know about this restorative treatment? You might be shocked to learn that it’s less painful than you may think!

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team is passionate about dentistry. That’s why we offer numerous restorative treatments to help patients reclaim control over their oral and overall health. If you’re ready to talk to our team in Woolgoolga or Coff Harbor, NSW, then request your appointment online here.

Meanwhile, let’s test your knowledge about root canal treatment. Answer these questions to see how much you know!

A root canal is…

  1. A dental instrument
  2. A blood vessel
  3. A tunnel within a tooth
  4. None of the above

 

Answer: C

We commonly hear ‘root canal’ as a term for a dental procedure, but a root canal is a naturally occurring tunnel within our teeth. These tunnels house dental pulp, which is full of nerves, blood vessels, and sensitive tissue.

You might need root canal treatment if…

  1. You have a dental abscess
  2. You have a tooth infection
  3. You have a cracked tooth
  4. All of the above

 

Answer: D

When bacteria enter the dental pulp inside our teeth, the tissue inside gets contaminated. This can result in a painful tooth infection that manifests as a bump, or dental abscess, on the gums. 

Oftentimes, a large cavity is responsible for eating away at teeth and gaining access to dental pulp. However, other dental damage (like a cracked tooth) can expose dental pulp, which will require root canal treatment.

Root canal therapy is very painful. True or False?

  1. True
  2. False

 

Answer: B

In the past, root canal therapy was extremely painful. However, root canals today are virtually painless thanks to local anesthesia and sedatives. Residual discomfort following the procedure may occur, but most patients can quell the pain with over-the-counter painkillers. Typically, patients leave our office feeling far less pain than when they walked in!

Root canals are not a successful dental solution. True or False?

  1. True
  2. False

 

Answer: B

Research indicates that root canals have an extremely high success rate of approximately 94%. This means that root canals give patients long-term relief from dental infections, which leads to a healthier mouth and smile.

What do dentists use to fill in a tooth after removing the infected pulp inside a tooth?

  1. Gutta-percha
  2. Gum
  3. Metal
  4. None of the above

 

Answer: A

Once our team removes the infected pulp inside a tooth, we must fill in the empty root canal to prevent more bacteria from entering the tooth. In most procedures, our team uses a material known as gutta-percha to fill in the empty space. 

Gutta-percha is a rubber-like substance that comes from a tree commonly found in Southeast Asia. The substance is biocompatible, meaning it works with the body rather than against it.

After the procedure, a dentist must cover the tooth with a dental crown. True or False?

  1. True
  2. False

 

Answer:  A

Filling in the tooth with gutta percha is just one way to protect an affected tooth from further damage. The second line of defense is a durable restoration, like a dental crown. These strong, ceramic coverings support the structural integrity of teeth and protect them from bacteria.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you think that you might need root canal therapy, then don’t delay. Call Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre for a consultation today. Our team will help you fight the pain and restore your smile.

To request an appointment at one of our three locations, send our team a secure message online here.