Feb 13
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Gentle dentist explains x-ray with new technology.

Gentle Dentist Explains the Benefits of New Technology

By Dental checkups No Comments

Technological advances in dentistry have vastly improved the way we experience dental care. With the help of new tools and techniques, a gentle dentist can make your dental appointments comfortable, while also improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment. 

Dr. Pathak and our team at Magic Smiles have a passion for clinical accuracy and gentle dentistry. From the moment you enter our office in Coffs Harbor, you will feel welcomed and relaxed. We study new treatments and technology, then bring our patients what we consider to be the best of the best! With comprehensive, patient-centered care, we will introduce you to new and improved, gentle dental care. 

We currently use the following dental technology and techniques to provide excellent, modern dental care to our patients.

Medit i500 Intraoral Scanner

Dental impressions provide dentists with a mold of your teeth used for creating accurate restorations, bite appliances, and prosthetics. Dr. Pathak utilizes the Medit i500 intraoral scanner in the place of traditional messy, unpleasant-tasting dental impressions. 

During your examination, he will pass the Medit i500 wand over your teeth and gums. 

High-quality images captured by our intraoral scanner help the dentist detect early stages of tooth decay, cracks, and other issues that left untreated would cause pain and interfere with oral function. 

Digital impressions help us create personalized treatments that may include one or more of the following:

  • Dentures
  • Porcelain Veneers
  • Dental Crowns
  • Dental Bridges
  • Whitening Trays
  • Custom Oral Appliances (Night Guards/Sports Guards)
  • Dental Models of Your Teeth

Orthopantomogram (OPG)

That’s a mouthful! For diagnostic and treatment of dental issues, the orthopantomography x-ray offers a panoramic, detailed picture of your teeth.

During your examination, the dentist will rotate the orthopantomogram around your head as you sit still. The OPG takes an x-ray in about 20 seconds. Detailed panoramic mages help the dentist determine your jawbone density, find bone fractures, and diagnose other dental issues. 

Digital X-Ray Technology

To lower your exposure to radiation or other metals and chemicals, Dr. Pathak employs digital x-ray technology. These x-rays are noninvasive and provide immediate results. Best of all, they are the kind of tool a gentle dentist loves to share with his patients! Digital x-rays require only a fraction of radiation that’s normally emitted for x-rays. 

VELscope Advanced Oral Cancer Screenings

The VELscope is a handheld, wireless scope that emits a special wavelength against soft oral tissues. Bounceback data provides important information about what lies beneath the surface. During your scan, Dr. Pathak will identify potentially cancerous abnormalities that are not yet visible in your mouth. 

Through early oral cancer detection and treatment, patients have a great chance of a successful outcome of 80% survival rate at five years. Compare this to the mere 30-50% five-year survival rate of cancers found in later stages. If you regularly use tobacco products or have a family history of cancer, contact our team for a cancer screening today. 

Soft-Tissue Dental Lasers

With the use of soft-tissue dental lasers, a gentle dentist can provide precise, minimally invasive, comfortable care. 

Some of the benefits of using a soft-tissue dental laser include:

  • No scalpel
  • No stitches
  • Fast recovery
  • Little or no bleeding
  • Reduced trauma to your gums
  • Used in cosmetic and restorative procedures

Sedation Options in Gentle Dentistry

A truly gentle dentist will provide comforting, encouraging care. To go beyond this, Dr. Pathak and our team employ comfort-enhancing dental tools. However, if you are concerned about your comfort during dental visits, ask about our three options for sedation dentistry.

Nitrous Oxide: 

For mild anxiety or minor treatments, we administer nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. Nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is inhaled through a comfortable face mask. 

Our dental team will carefully monitor the amount of gas you receive. We can also adjust the dosage to alter the effects as needed. With laughing gas, you can return to life: drive, work, play as usual, right after your appointment. 

Penthrox:

Much like nitrous oxide, Penthrox is a colorless, odorless gas (methoxyflurane) with fast-acting anesthetic results. Methoxyflurane offers analgesic results without creating deep sedation. 

Oral Sedation

If you have severe dental anxiety, you may need stronger sedation. In this case, our gentle dentist will prescribe an anti-anxiety medication. These medications will help you relax, mentally and physically. You may even fall asleep. If you choose oral sedation, you’ll need a driver to and from your appointment, and plan to rest the remainder of the day.

Get the treatment you deserve with a visit to your gentle dentist. 

With the use of new dental technology, Dr. Pathak will have you looking forward to your dental appointments. The team at our Coffs Harbor dental office will make sure you remain comfortable throughout each and every visit. Contact us online or call us today at 02-6652-3242.

Feb 06
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Hook Up on Tinder

By Online Dating No Comments

Since dating can be stressful, there is the possibility of humor to try to reduce tensions. In a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Rosenfeld found that heterosexual couples are more likely to meet a romantic partner online than through personal contacts and connections. Since 1940, traditional ways of meeting partners – through family, in church and in the neighborhood – have all been in decline, Rosenfeld said. The company has said that this app is single, progressive and specially designed for the Gen Z market.

So it’s taken that pressure off, this has to be a friendship interaction, and this has to be a romantic interaction. The platforms highlighted below are legal, so you don’t have to worry about getting scammed. OurTime.com is a dating site that caters to singles 50 years and older. Registration is free, and you can view profiles of singles in your area. The app is easy to use, and you can connect with local singles that interest you. Starting a conversation here is very easy because your potential matches are meant to comment on a specific piece of information on your profile.

They are oriented on varied countries and on the varied nationalities. There hookupguru the sites with the diverse prices and the diverse functionalities. You will need a premium membership to use the site’s full potential. For example, messaging people as a free member lets you only use the message feature to send site-generated icebreakers, while Standard members can only send winks and add folks to their favorites.

  • Meetup.com is another popular platform, however it’s not built around dating.
  • Research from Berkeley University in California suggests there is a dropoff in interest after online daters meet face-to-face.
  • This may have something to do with most of its features being free.
  • Three-in-ten U.S. adults say they have ever used a dating site or app, according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted July 5-17, 2022.
  • A line of research initiated in recent years links dark personality traits to the reasons for using Tinder.

So until then, I’m delighted and would like to say thank you towards the present software for providing usa together. I got most positive and negative experiences previously, and many consumers actually shattered the emotions.

How to use dating apps like a pro

The date can be online or physical, with the latter costing the paying party any expenses incurred during the meet-up. If the date is to take place in a venue that requires an entry fee, your partner should pay for that too. As to how much you get to take home, the going rate averages $80 to $100 per date. Also, as an attractive member, you have an option to negotiate the bid if you feel the amount is too. After submitting your request, you’ll receive a confirmation email giving you access to the site. This is an adult dating website where bids are placed to win a date.

The Dangers of Dating App Meet-Ups

Reverting to characteristics of traditional sexual scripts, women may find themselves further entrenched in unwanted gender roles. Feminist Gail Dines has opined that pornography is “a cultural force that is shaping the sexual attitudes of an entire generation” and a “major form of sex ed today for boys.”

Most importantly, you get to set the budget for the entire date. What this means is that you get to keep the full-price amount. Finally, you don’t have to disclose your personal identity if you are not comfortable with a bidder. For the chance to get paid to date a millionaire or just the average Joe, you pay a subscription fee of $59.99 for 30 days.

Basically, you’re given a random profile with the option to either “like” them or “X” cross them out – sort of like Tinder’s swipe feature. Most of the members on SearchingforSingles are from the US, but you can still find users worldwide! Plus, there are also more women than men on this hookup site, if that’s what you’re after. Tinder has been called the harbinger of the hookup-fueled “dating apocalypse.” But the truth of the matter is, hooking up isn’t anything new . And as for Tinder, sure, it can be used for swiftly finding a one-night stand, but there are plenty of other apps that are better suited for that task. You don’t have to travel thousands of miles away to meet your date when you find the perfect match – as Tinder lets you only access singles near your location.

Feb 06
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Woman smiles before a visit with her Woolgoolga dentist.

7 Things Your Woolgoolga Dentist Wants You to Know

By Woolgoogla and Coffs Harbour Dentist No Comments

Who doesn’t want a beautiful and healthy smile? Your Woolgoolga dentist at Magic Smiles can help make that dream come true. In our office, patients feel completely comfortable asking questions and discussing concerns. Dr. Pathak and our dental team believe personal relationships are the foundation for communication, which is essential to effective dental care. 

Whether your next appointment is today or six months away, start practicing these 7 tasks to prepare for earning an A+ dental report.. 

1) Be sure to drink enough water each day. 

Regularly drinking water helps maintain good oral and physical health. The amount of water each person needs to stay hydrated varies. The Mayo Clinic suggests women drink 2.7 liters of water a day and men drink 3.7 liters.  Staying hydrated will help:

  • Prevent Dry Mouth
  • Flush out Bad Bacteria
  • Deter Bad Breath
  • Strengthen Teeth Through Fluoride in the Water 
  • Flush away Pieces of Food
  • Prevent Tooth Decay

2) Bleeding gums require treatment.

If your gums are sensitive or bleeding when you brush, we need to see you in our office as soon as possible. Gingivitis treatments are highly successful with early detection. If you don’t seek treatment for your bleeding gums, you could end up needing expensive and time-consuming procedures. 

3) Don’t dismiss a toothache as no big deal.

Anytime you experience discomfort in your teeth, contact your trusted Woolgoolga dentist, Dr. Pathak.

A toothache could signify that your tooth has developed a chip, crack, or cavity. These dental issues usually require minimal treatment when identified and addressed in the early stages. Contact our team, and we work you into our schedule as soon as possible. Early treatment of a toothache could save your tooth. 

4) Never skip appointments with your Woolgoolga dentist.

Routine dental appointments allow our dental team an opportunity to maintain your dental health by finding and treating concerns early, rather than after they advance into serious issues. Without regular cleanings, dental examinations, and dental treatments, your oral and overall health can suffer.

Visit Dr, Pathak, your Woolgoolga dentist, at least twice a year, even if you have no pending dental concerns. Some oral health concerns, like gingivitis, may present no symptoms in the early stages..  

5) Deal with your dental emergencies right away.

You may think a chipped tooth or a missing filling can wait until your next appointment. See the dentist immediately if you experience a dental emergency, such as:

  • Knocked out Tooth or Teeth
  • Severe Discomfort or Toothache
  • Lost or Damaged Dental Restorations (ex. Fillings, Implants, or Veneers)
  • Swelling of the Mouth or Gums
  • Any Injury to Your Soft Tissues (Deep Cuts to the Cheeks or mouth)
  • Cracked or Damaged Teeth
  • Loose Tooth or Teeth

 

6) Follow good oral hygiene practices at home.

  • Oral hygiene shouldn’t just happen at your dentist’s office. Practice good oral hygiene habits every day. Follow these recommendations by Dr. Pathak, your Woolgoolga dentist, and you’ll lay a foundation for great oral health.Brush your teeth at least twice each day. 
  • Floss after meals and snacks. 
  • Carry dental floss and a travel toothbrush with you whenever possible. 

Always be honest with your dentist about your dental hygiene habits so that he can better serve your dental health needs. 

7) If you wear lipstick, be sure to remove it before your dental appointment. 

Detecting signs of cancer becomes more difficult for the dentist if you wear lipstick during your appointment. What seems like a simple blemish or mole could indicate the early stages of oral cancer. Wipe off your lipstick for a full examination, so you can stay healthy for years to come. 

For answers to your dental health questions, contact Dr. Pathak and our team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre in Woolgoolga. Our team loves helping patients maintain excellent dental health. Call us today at 02-6654-0650 or contact us online. 

Dec 19
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3D illustration of how dental crowns are placed on the teeth.

Dental Crowns vs. Dental Fillings: Which is right for me?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Leaving dental damage and decay untreated can be risky. It can lead to significant pain and trigger other oral health issues, eventually resulting in disease, dysfunction, and tooth loss. Luckily, restorative dentistry treatments (like dental crowns or fillings) can help you address damage and decay so that you can smile with complete comfort and confidence.

 

Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre is your premier location for preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour. Don’t let cavities and dental damage disrupt your life–schedule an appointment with our team here to get the care you deserve.

 

Before you address cavities, chips, cracks, or fractures, you need to know the primary differences between dental crowns and fillings. In this blog post, our team compares and contrasts dental crowns vs. dental fillings so that you can make the best choice for your smile.

What are dental fillings?

Dental fillings allow dentists to fill in small cavities, cracks, chips, and pits in the teeth. As a result, dental fillings are an ideal way to restore minimally-damaged teeth back to their original shape and strength. 

Lifespan

There are different types of fillings, including metal and tooth-colored composite resin. The lifespan of dental fillings is largely dependent on which type of filling patients receive.  

 

At Magic Smiles, we provide patients with aesthetically-pleasing and effective composite resin fillings. These tooth-colored restorations can last patients for 10 years or longer with the proper upkeep.

Cost

In Australia, the government does not fund many dental treatments in the same way that it covers other medical treatments. Therefore, patients may be responsible for all dental filling costs.

 

Luckily, fillings are an affordable way to repair and enhance your smile. Surveys suggest that simple fillings may cost patients around $275, while more complicated fillings may total around $500.

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns go by many names, including teeth crowns and caps. But, no matter what name they go by, they are a long-lasting way to repair significantly damaged or decayed teeth. 

 

Caps are tooth-shaped prosthetics that fit over badly injured or decayed teeth. Because crowns completely encapsulate compromised teeth, they offer more protection against future damage and decay than fillings do.

Lifespan

Similar to fillings, crowns also come in many different varieties, including porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and zirconia. At Magic Smiles, we provide numerous types of crowns so that you can choose the right restoration for you.

 

In general, dental caps can last for 15 years or longer with diligent care.

Cost

Again, patients may be responsible for all dental-crown costs. And, unfortunately, caps are more pricey than fillings, with most treatments costing over $1,000. However, the cost of treatment directly reflects dental caps’ effectiveness, as they offer far more protection than fillings.

Which is right for me?

Typically, dental fillings are right for patients with minimal damage or decay. Alternatively, caps may be ideal for patients with significant damage or decay. 

 

But, you don’t have to make the choice alone–the team at Magic Smiles can help you pick the best option for your smile and budget.

Learn More About Dental Crowns and Fillings 

Let the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre help you restore your smile’s health, beauty, and function with comprehensive solutions. Reach out to our team here to learn more about your restorative options today.

Dec 15
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A pretty mouth behind teal wrapping paper to convey cosmetic dentistry treatments for Christmas

Cosmetic Dentistry: Four Ways to Bring Glad Tidings to Your Grin

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

Nothing brings cheer to your loved ones like your beautiful smile. But, if your smile is looking a little dull this holiday season, then you may be looking for fast and effective ways to upgrade your grin. This year, cosmetic dentistry treatments with our Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Center team can keep your smile off of the naughty list (read more about cosmetic dentistry here).

 

Are you ready to give yourself the gift of a healthy and beautiful smile? Then, schedule an appointment with our team in Coffs Harbour or Woolgoolga, NSW, today. Simply request your appointment here to get started.

 

Meanwhile, let’s explore four cosmetic dentistry treatments that can help you win a kiss under the mistletoe.

Teeth Whitening

Even if you have been using store-bought teeth whiteners, professional teeth whitening may be worth exploring. 

 

Professional whitening treatments use stronger ingredients than store-bought whiteners. In fact, professional treatments may contain up to 40% bleaching ingredients as compared to roughly 10% bleaching ingredients in store-bought options.

 

Not only are professional whitening treatments faster and more effective, but the results last longer, too. Experts believe that most patients can enjoy a noticeably lighter smile for up to three years after a single whitening treatment.

Dental Bonding

Dentists use a strong, tooth-coloured material to fill in cavities. But, this tooth-coloured material (a versatile composite resin) can do much more than protect teeth against further decay. Indeed, dentists frequently use this composite resin to address subtle smile flaws, such as:

  • Chipped or fractured teeth
  • Discoloured teeth
  • Misshapen teeth
  • Large gaps
  • Worn tooth enamel

 

Dental bonding is non-invasive and completely reversible. Subsequently, it is a great way for you to customize your smile without damaging your natural teeth.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are very thin (but very strong!) ceramic shells that dentists permanently affix to the front surface of teeth. They can cover the same smile flaws that dental bonding can cover, but porcelain veneers are not reversible. This means that this cosmetic dentistry treatment is a lifelong commitment. So, if veneers crack, break, or fall off, then it is crucial to repair or replace them as soon as possible.

 

Nevertheless, veneers may be a better way for you to get a perfectly tailor-made grin. You can work closely with our team to choose the right shade, shape, and size of porcelain veneers for your smile.

Laser Gum Contouring Cosmetic Dentistry

Having even one to two millimeters of extra gum tissue can give you the appearance of a gummy smile. Get your smile holiday-ready with safe and effective laser gum contouring.

 

This cosmetic dentistry procedure gently removes extra gingival tissue to improve your gum line and enhance your oral aesthetic. And, because our dentists use soft-tissue lasers, you’ll experience less pain and faster healing after the procedure. 

Cosmetic Dentistry Near Me

If you’re looking for affordable, safe, and effective cosmetic dentistry in New South Wales, then contact the team at Magic Smiles. With offices in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, we can help you get a stunning smile just in time for the New Year. Request your appointment to get started now!

Dec 12
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person holds a nicely wrapped gift

Dentists in Coffs Harbour Give You Oral Health-Related Gift Ideas for the Holidays

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

Did the holidays sneak up on you like they snuck up on us? If so, then you may be looking for last-minute gift ideas for your friends and family members. Of course, we know that they’d love a prepaid cosmetic dentistry treatment (like teeth whitening!), but what about other oral health-related gifts? Our dentists in Coffs Harbour are here to help!

 

But, before you complete your holiday shopping, be sure to schedule a dental exam and cleaning for yourself at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. Get started now by contacting our dentist in Coffs Harbour or Woolgoolga, NSW, here.

 

Now, back to your holiday shopping. In this post, our dentists in Coffs Harbour give you four oral health-related gift ideas that your friends and family will love!

Stocking Stuffers for Healthy Smiles

Never underestimate the power of stocking stuffers! Your loved ones will enjoy getting thoughtful, helpful, and cost-effective gifts, like:

  • Travel-size toothbrushes, toothpaste, and mouthwash
  • On-the-go oral hygiene products (like interdental flossers and single-use mini toothbrushes)
  • Sugarless gum and mints (opt for xylitol-containing goodies for their cavity-fighting properties!)
  • Store-bought whitening strips
  • Chewable toothpaste tablets

Electric Toothbrush

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends twice-daily toothbrushing for at least 120 seconds (two minutes) each time. But, many of us struggle to brush twice a day for two minutes at a time.

 

If you know someone who hates to brush their teeth, then try gifting them an electric toothbrush. Not only are electric toothbrushes more effective at removing built-up plaque, but many of them are programmed to run for two-minute intervals. This means that your loved one can remove more cavity-causing plaque while also meeting the ADA’s daily oral-hygiene guidelines.

Oral Irrigators

Traditional string floss isn’t exactly fun to use. Wrapping the string tightly around the fingers can cut off circulation, and maneuvering the hands and floss around the mouth can be challenging, especially for children and older adults.

 

Oral irrigators (also called water flossers) are an easy and modern way to remove plaque from hard-to-reach places, like between the teeth and below the gum line. When used in addition to traditional string floss and regular brushing, oral irrigators are an ideal way to keep your smile healthy in between dental cleanings.

Specialized Toothpastes

While drugstore toothpastes are effective, they may not offer many additional benefits, like remineralizing properties. 

 

This year, show your loved ones that you care by giving them specialized toothpastes. Whether they strengthen weak tooth enamel or address tooth sensitivity, specialized toothpastes are a thoughtful way for you to help your friends and family members prioritize their oral health all year round.

Meet Our Dentists in Coffs Harbour or Woolgoolga

This year, don’t let the holidays stress you out–ask our dentists in Coffs Harbour or Woolgoolga for more oral health-related gift ideas. Simply reach the team at Magic Smiles here to learn more. And don’t forget to schedule a dental exam and cleaning for yourself while you’re at it!

Nov 22
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A person clutches their jaws to indicate the presence of a TMD

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD): What It Is, and How to Treat It

By Orthodontics No Comments

If you have frequent jaw pain that makes yawning, speaking, and chewing more difficult, then you may have a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Luckily, simple solutions (like orthodontics) can help you get lasting relief from jaw pain and dysfunction.

 

The team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre is here to help you get healthy teeth and jaws for life. Contact our team in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW, online here to see how we can take your oral health to the next level.

 

Diagnosing a temporomandibular joint disorder starts with you. Keep reading to learn more about what a TMD is, what it feels like, and how to treat it. 

What is TMJ disorder?

The temporomandibular joint (shortened to TMJ) is a hinge-like joint. It connects the lower jaw (called the mandible) to the temporal bones of the skull (located just above the ears). These joints allow us to open and close our mouths. Because of their near-constant use for speaking, eating, and yawning, the TMJ is vulnerable to injury and wear over time.

 

Dysfunction and disease can limit the TMJ’s mobility, comfort, and function, leading to what experts call a temporomandibular joint disorder.

What causes a TMD?

A TMJ disorder may develop for a number of reasons, including:

  • Bruxism (unconscious dental grinding and jaw clenching)
  • Misaligned teeth
  • Tight or tired facial muscles
  • Trauma or injury to the jaw 
  • Arthritis 
  • Depression, anxiety, and other psychological stressors
  • Certain medications (like fluoxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine)
  • Genetics

 

The cause of a TMD may be the result of one, some, or all of the above factors. Ultimately, a trained professional must diagnose the disorder in order to pinpoint the likely culprit and treat it accordingly.

What does a TMJ disorder feel like?

In the absence of pain, clicking and popping sounds coming from the jaw joints are normal. However, clicking and popping accompanied by pain are signs of a TMD.

 

Other signs and symptoms of a TMJ disorder include:

  • Pain that radiates from the jaw toward the face, neck, or shoulders
  • Jaw stiffness
  • Limited mobility
  • Locked jaws
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  • Frequent headaches or migraines
  • Changes in bite patterns

How can I treat a TMJ disorder?

There are several surgical and non-surgical options to treat a TMJ disorder. However, the team at Magic Smiles always prefers to pursue non-surgical treatment options before pursuing surgical treatment options.

 

Common non-surgical treatment options include:

  • Personalized night guards: These anti-bruxism devices provide a constant cushion between the teeth to deter sleep bruxism (which affects nearly 13% of all adults).
  • Orthodontic treatments: In some cases, improper dental alignments may put undue stress on the teeth and jaws. Simple solutions (like clear aligner therapy) can easily shift teeth into better alignment for prolonged pain relief.
  • Medications: Whether over-the-counter or prescription, painkillers can reduce discomfort and improve jaw mobility. Alternatively, anxiolytics and antidepressants may also decrease tension in the jaw and improve mobility.

Get TMD Relief Now at Magic Smiles

Don’t let jaw pain and dysfunction keep you from living your life to the fullest. Contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today to see how we can help you. Just send a message to one of our three, convenient locations to book your appointment now!

 

Nov 17
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A person rests their chin on their hands and smiles widely to reveal the benefits of routine oral hygiene

Improve Your Routine Oral Hygiene with These Six Tips

By Dental Checkup No Comments

Routine oral hygiene includes activities like brushing and flossing. But, is simple brushing and flossing enough to keep your teeth and gums healthy and functional? Possibly, but there are a few things you can do (along with regular checkups) to take your oral hygiene to the next level.

 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we believe that exceptional oral health care starts with you. So, don’t be shy–contact our team in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, NSW, today. Simply send us a brief message here to get started!

 

In this post, we give you six tips on how you can improve your routine oral hygiene. Because even tiny changes can add up to major improvements in your oral and overall health!

1. Use a Soft-bristled Toothbrush

Did you know that the bristles on toothbrushes come in different stiffnesses, like soft, medium, and hard? Many patients assume that the stiffer the bristles are, the better clean they will get. But, that simply isn’t true.

 

Hard-bristled and soft-bristled toothbrushes both clean teeth equally well. The key difference? Hard bristles can rub away the protective layer on our teeth (tooth enamel) at an alarming rate, but soft bristles do not.

 

So, ditch the hard-bristled brush. Save your tooth enamel and prevent cavities with soft-bristled toothbrushes instead.

2. Don’t Rinse after Brushing

Today, many toothpastes contain remineralizing ingredients, such as fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite. These ingredients rebuild weakened tooth enamel and prevent cavities from forming on the teeth.

 

Research indicates that rinsing after brushing actively removes these essential ingredients from the mouth. As a result, remineralizing toothpastes cannot properly strengthen and protect teeth as intended. 

 

So, simply spit out the toothpaste, skip the rinse, and carry on. Leaving residual toothpaste in the mouth allows remineralizing ingredients to do their job better.

3. Brush or Scrape Your Tongue

Right now, billions upon billions of bacteria are living in our mouths, many of which are responsible for bad breath. These bad-breath microbes create a sticky film in our mouths, which can be removed with gentle brushing. But, if you’re not brushing your tongue, then you may be leaving billions of odour-causing bacteria behind.

 

Following toothbrushing, you should brush or scrape your tongue. This helps to remove plaque, bacteria, and residual food debris on the tongue for fresher breath and a healthier smile.

4. Upgrade Your Dental Floss

There is no doubt about it–traditional string floss is a hassle. But, with recent upgrades to dental floss, patients have more accessible and comfortable ways to prioritize their periodontal health.

 

Here are just a few ways to floss in the 21st century:

  • A water flosser 
  • Interdental brushes
  • Floss picks (disposable or reusable!)

5. Eat and Drink Your Way to a Healthy Smile

Sugary and acidic foods and drinks are common cavity culprits. Therefore, establishing a dental-friendly diet is a great way to elevate your routine oral hygiene. 

 

So, drink plenty of fresh water, eat your fruits and veg, and add more probiotic foods (like yogurt and kimchi) to your menu for a healthier smile!

6. See a Dentist in NSW Every Six Months

Don’t let your routine oral hygiene practices go to waste. Maintain your oral health and hygiene by booking regular checkups and dental cleans with our dentists in New South Wales every six months. Request an appointment at Magic Smiles online now to schedule yours!

 

Nov 11
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A young woman sits on the floor and clutches her chest, indicating dentophobia before a dental appointment

Four Ways to Overcome Dentophobia

By Dental Checkup No Comments

Is a deep-seated fear of the dentist keeping you from getting yearly checkups and cleanings? You don’t have to go through it alone. The team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre is here to give you four ways to overcome dental anxiety (also called dentophobia).

Looking for gentle dentistry in Coffs Harbour or Woolgoolga, NSW? At Magic Smiles, we offer numerous services (like sedation dentistry) to make dental care more comfortable for you. Contact our team now to see how we can give you a more pleasant experience.

Meanwhile, let’s discuss four things you can do to make dental care less intimidating. Even simple solutions can add up to major differences in your care and comfort!

 

Calm Your Nerves with Breathing Exercises

We’ve all heard it before– “Just take a deep breath!” But, how beneficial is deep breathing on anxiety? It turns out that it could make a noticeable difference in soothing frayed nerves.

Research reveals that prolonging exhalation triggers the parasympathetic nervous system. Once triggered, the parasympathetic nervous system reduces the fight-or-flight response. As a result, feelings of fear and anxiety greatly diminish with deep, controlled breathing.

So, what’s the trick? Simply breathe in, and fully release all of the air from your lungs (exhaling for about five counts). Repeat this process for two to five minutes or until you feel more relaxed.

 

Distract Yourself with Your Favorites

For many patients, the sensations of a dental office can trigger their dentophobia. So, if the sound of drills or the smell of a sterile environment causes you to panic, then block out the surrounding environment with welcome distractions. 

Here are a few ways that you can keep yourself distracted and entertained during dental appointments:

  • Listen to your favorite music (and pump the volume up just a tad!)
  • Watch your favorite TV shows or movies (on our TVs or on your own device!)
  • Play with fidgets to keep energetic hands occupied
  • Place diluted essential oils (like calming lavender mixed with coconut oil) under the nose to promote calm 

 

Find Your Happy Place

It might sound a little silly, but visualization can be a powerful tool to combat dentophobia. Visualization is a mental exercise that encourages patients to reframe and redirect their thoughts. Experts believe that visualization is a form of meditation, which can help patients relax and find their ‘happy place,’ even in stressful situations.

 

Consider Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry may be the most effective way to overcome dentophobia. This nerve-soothing approach to gentle dentistry deters dental anxiety with the use of:

  • Oral conscious sedation
  • IV sedation
  • Nitrous oxide 
  • Local anesthesia
  • General anesthesia

 

Sedation dentistry is right for most patients. So, don’t hesitate to ask our team which sedation dentistry services might benefit you most at your next appointment!

 

Ask Us About Sedation Dentistry in New South Wales

Don’t let dentophobia keep you from getting exceptional dental care with our skilled dentists in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW. Contact the team at Magic Smiles online here to ask us about our available sedation dentistry services and other gentle treatments.

 

Nov 03
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Close-up image of crowns for teeth in Coffs Harbour, NSW

Six Reasons to Get Crowns for Teeth

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Dental crowns for teeth serve as protective coverings to combat continued damage, decay, and dysfunction. As a result, dental crowns (also called caps) are a popular restorative solution to strengthen and beautify patients’ smiles.

 

Looking for top-notch restorative dental care in a friendly and educational atmosphere? Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre is your premier location for all things dental health. Schedule your next dental appointment at one of our three, convenient locations in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, New South Wales by submitting a request online here.

 

Meanwhile, let our team tell you six reasons why you might need dental crowns for teeth. From restorative to cosmetic, these versatile prosthetics offer numerous benefits.

1. Prevent Cavities from Spreading

Did you know that cavities are contagious? 2014 research indicates that cavities are infectious, as cavity-causing bacteria are easily transmissible via saliva. That’s right–swapping spit can result in tooth-destroying cavities.

 

If you have a cavity, then it’s important to protect yourself and others from damaging bacteria. Dental caps can prevent extensive dental decay from spreading to surrounding teeth or other people. As a result, crowns for teeth serve as comprehensive treatments that restore patients’ smiles and their interpersonal relationships. 

2. An Alternative to Traditional Teeth Whitening

Traditional teeth-whitening treatments easily lift external stains from the teeth. But, when it comes to internal discoloration, traditional teeth-whitening just won’t cut it.

 

Internal stains may be the result of trauma, medications, or health conditions. Whatever the cause, they are immune to traditional whitening methods. Instead, patients with intrinsic stains can seamlessly cover discoloration with tooth crowns.

 

Our team can craft and color-match crowns to patients’ exact specifications. As a result, patients can tailor their smiles to meet their aesthetic, health, and budgetary goals.

3. Combat Tooth Sensitivity

Thinning tooth enamel is the primary cause of dental sensitivity. And, even though tooth enamel is the toughest substance in our bodies, it is incapable of repairing itself once damaged.

 

Significantly worn or thin tooth enamel requires reinforcement. However, simpler solutions (like dental fillings) may not be enough to support ultra-weak teeth. Dental caps offer more protection than fillings while also improving the appearance of dull or discolored teeth.

4. Complete a Dental Implant or Dental Bridge

Tooth caps can sit atop a dental implant to replace missing teeth. Alternatively, crowns can serve as anchors on neighboring teeth to keep dental bridges securely in place. 

5. Protect Teeth Following Root Canal Therapy

If a cavity goes untreated for too long, it may result in a painful (and potentially life-threatening!) root canal infection. Luckily, root canal therapy effectively removes the infection. But, teeth with root canal infections require long-lasting protection.

 

A tooth cap protects and restores teeth following root canal therapy. As a result, patients can keep their natural teeth longer without sacrificing their overall aesthetic.

6. Reshape Teeth to Improve Oral Function and Aesthetics

In some cases, short or misshapen teeth can affect dental occlusion (the way our teeth align and interact). Dental crowns for teeth with abnormalities help patients improve their bite patterns, which improves their oral function and appearance.

Crowns for Teeth in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour

Are you ready to see if crowns are right for your teeth? Then, contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today! Patients can easily reach one of our three locations by submitting appointment requests online here.