Jul 17
Love0
An illustration showing how dental fillings work

Four FAQs about Dental Fillings

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

If you have worn tooth enamel or cavities, then you may need dental fillings to repair your smile. Dental fillings are just one way that a restorative dentist can help you strengthen your teeth and prevent worsening oral health conditions.

 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team of dedicated dentists are here to help you get the healthy and happy smile that you deserve. So, if you suspect that you might have a cavity, then don’t wait–schedule an appointment to discuss dental fillings with a New South Wales dentist now. New and existing patients can request an appointment online here.

 

Meanwhile, let our team answer four frequently asked questions (FAQs) about tooth fillings. Using this information might help you make the right decision for your smile and oral health.

What are dental fillings made from?

In the past, dentists used a blend of metals to fill in cavities or worn tooth enamel. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that this metallic blend typically contains about 50% elemental mercury by volume. And, elemental mercury is a well-known neurotoxin. So, most dentists today no longer use metal to fill cavities or strengthen weak enamel.

 

Today, dental professionals use composite resin as fillings. Composite resin is a biocompatible material, so patients don’t have to worry about heavy metals seeping into their bloodstreams. 

 

Not only do composite dental fillings work better with our bodies, but they are more aesthetically-pleasing, too. No more dark, metal dental fillings–just seamless, tooth-colored fill-ins!

How long do dental fillings last?

Research suggests that the majority of composite dental fillings last for approximately seven years before needing replacement. However, newer research indicates that proper dental hygiene and maintenance could allow patients to enjoy their dental fillings for more than 10 years.

 

So, get the most out of your dental fillings by brushing after every meal, flossing at least once a day, and visiting our dental team for regular dental exams and cleanings.

How do I care for a new dental filling?

Besides brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and scheduling regular dental visits, patients should protect their new tooth fillings by:

  • Avoiding excessively sticky or hard foods
  • Using dentist-approved toothbrushes and toothpaste
  • Wearing mouthguards for teeth grinding or during high-contact activities

 

Taking these precautions will prevent a new dental filling from falling out or getting damaged.

Does getting a dental filling hurt?

At Magic Smiles, we prioritize our patients’ comfort. That’s why we use top-of-the-line numbing agents and sedatives. So, patients who need a dental filling shouldn’t feel any pain during their treatment.

 

Nonetheless, patients may experience some slight pressure or discomfort during their procedure. Ordinarily, the procedure is pain-free, but some patients report minor sensitivity following their appointments. Typically, the sensitivity resides within a couple hours, allowing patients to get back to their regular activities. 

See if dental fillings are right for you–schedule a consultation!

If you think that you might need tooth fillings, then don’t delay–schedule an appointment at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today. Patients can easily request an appointment online here.

Jun 27
Love0
two girls smiling-cost of dental bridges

Types and Cost of Dental Bridges

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Missing teeth hurt your self-esteem and your dental health. A dental bridge boosts your self-confidence and improves your oral health by restoring the look and function of your teeth. Magic Smiles is here to explain the types and cost of dental bridges so you can make the right decision for your smile.

Dr. Pathak and our team at Magic Smiles are experienced in placing traditional and implant-supported dental bridges. We may recommend either of these options to patients who are missing one or more consecutive teeth.

Traditional Dental Bridges

In order to be a good candidate for traditional dental bridges, you must have two healthy teeth, one on either side of the gap. These teeth will be fitted with crowns in order to support your new dental bridge. 

Cost

The cost of traditional bridges may vary depending on the number of teeth you need. Typically, these bridges may cost anywhere between $1500 to $6000 with an average of $700-$1500 per tooth. This is a long-term investment, as traditional bridges last 10 or more years with the proper care. 

Regular brushing and flossing as well as regular dental cleanings are still an important part of taking care of your smile. Dental bridges need to be maintained just like your natural teeth to extend their lifespan.

Implant-Supported Dental Bridges

One of the problems that occurs following tooth loss is bone loss. Without the tooth root to stimulate it, your jaw bone will start to deteriorate over time. Traditional bridges may replace your missing teeth, but they do not effectively stimulate your jaw. 

Implant-supported dental bridges are a reliable way to both restore your smile and protect your jaw bone. Dental implants are titanium pegs that act as prosthetic roots for your teeth. You new dental bridge is attached to these posts, replacing both your teeth and their roots.

Dental implants are safe and effective, and once healed, they feel just like your natural teeth. In order to be a good candidate for dental implants, you must have good overall oral health and no pre-existing conditions that could affect the osseointegration process.

Cost

The cost of implant-supported dental bridges is greater than traditional bridges. Depending on the number of implants needed, and the size and material of the bridge, implant-supported bridges can range from $3,500 to $30,000 or more. 

Some insurance covers replacement teeth, depending on the specifics of your policy. Usually, dental insurance may cover up to 50% of the cost of dental bridges but this varies by company. 

Although they are expensive, implants are safe and reliable. Studies have shown that implant supported prosthetics have a survival rate of more more than 90%. Additionally, no other prosthetic options properly stimulate your jaw bone.

Dental Bridges in New South Wales

The gap left behind by tooth loss can collect bacteria, increasing your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Are you experiencing jaw pain after tooth loss? Missing teeth can make you rely more heavily on one side of your mouth to eat, resulting in problems with your jaw. 

Replacing missing teeth is essential to protecting your oral health. With advanced technology and an experienced team, Magic Smiles can take care of all your restorative dentistry needs. Our doctors are trained to place implants, so you will not need a referral to an outside specialist.To learn more about restorative dentistry or to discuss the cost of dental bridges, schedule an appointment today. You can contact us online or call (02) 6654-0650 to start your journey to a healthier smile.

Jun 16
Love0
Girl looks concerned after addressing teeth grinding in New South Wales

Dental Crowns: Why do they feel loose?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

At some point in your life, you might need dental crowns or “caps.” Dental crowns are artificial teeth that act as a protective outer layer of the tooth, which can prolong the life of your natural teeth. If you have severely damaged or decayed teeth, Dr. Arpit Pathak and the Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre team might recommend placing a dental crown as part of restorative dentistry treatment. Find out more information about our various dental crown options at our Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbour, NSW, dental offices by reaching out online.

Dental crowns look, feel, and function like natural teeth when properly placed. On the other hand, a loose crown can cause more problems than you might imagine. Aside from imperfect dental work, here are six other factors that might cause dental crowns to detach:

1. Physical Trauma

If you take a blow where a dental crown was placed, it can become loose or influence what’s beneath the restoration. For example, physical trauma can loosen the bonding agent. In other cases, the tooth underneath the dental crown can become fractured.

2. Bruxism

Bruxism is the unconscious grinding or clenching of teeth, which are not part of ordinary chewing actions. This condition is not only detrimental to your jaw and temporomandibular joint (TMJ), but bruxism can loosen, crack, and break your dental work.

3. Underlying Tooth Decay

Even though the crown itself cannot experience tooth decay, the underlying tooth can—beneath dental crowns, dentin, tooth root, and other dental structures are still intact. So, if the protected tooth starts to deteriorate along the gumline, the bonding agent that holds the dental crown in place and the tooth begin to break down. Ultimately, the crown will feel loose or even fall out.

4. Chewy and Sticky Foods

Please don’t let a snack dislodge your dental work. Commonly, chewy and sticky foods force dental crowns out of alignment. Sticky candies (like caramels) are especially hazardous since they slowly break the cement’s seal and can yank the restoration off the tooth.

5. Ill-Fitting Dental Crowns

Ideally, dental crowns have adequate size, length, and shape to blend in seamlessly with your smile. The underlying tooth serves as secure seating for a perfectly fitted crown. Once bonded, dental crowns shouldn’t loosen or come off easily.

However, your dental crown might feel like it’s about to fall off if the underlying tooth is inadequate, imperfectly shaped, or simply doesn’t fit. With brand new dental crowns, dentists typically notice a bad fit and take corrective steps before you realize that there’s an issue. Still, if you notice a bad fit with a crown that has been otherwise dependable for an extensive period, that could mean something has shifted, broken, or altered.

6. Older Dental Work

Sometimes, the fit of the crown is not the problem. Almost all crowns are cemented or bonded onto the natural tooth structure. After many years, the cement washes away. Consequently, the crown might loosen or fall off.

Wobbly dental crowns? Visit Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre

Even though loose dental crowns can be unsettling or uncomfortable, this is a relatively common issue. Luckily, if you act quickly and the underlying teeth and crown are not damaged, your dentist can recement the same crown. Call (02) 6652-3242 or message us online to schedule an appointment. The sooner, the better.

Jun 11
Love0
woman hiding chipped teeth with her hands

Restorative Dentist Explains How to Care For and Repair a Chipped Tooth

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Suppose you’ve just crunched down on some hard candy or ice, then you notice a hard particle that doesn’t dissolve. Next, you get a sinking feeling as you realize what it is: it’s a tiny fragment of your tooth.

Restorative dentist Dr. Arpit Pathak offers restorative dentistry treatments to help you reclaim confidence in your smile and wellness. Have you recently chipped your tooth? If so, first book an appointment at our Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbour, NSW location as soon as possible. Secondly, read and follow these instructions:

How to Care for a Chipped Tooth

If you’ve accidentally chipped or broken a tooth, don’t panic. After scheduling a visit with your restorative dentist, take these precautions until you can meet with an oral health professional:

  • Manage Pain: If you’re experiencing dental pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever and use a saltwater rinse.
  • Adjust Your Mealtime Habits: When eating, avoid biting down on the fractured tooth and try to eat soft foods.
  • Protect Your Mouth: If your fractured tooth has a jagged or sharp edge, cover the uneven surface with a piece of paraffin wax. This can temporarily protect your tongue, cheeks, and other soft tissues.

How a Restorative Dentist Can Repair a Chipped Tooth

Treatment for a chipped or broken tooth is highly dependent on how seriously it is damaged:

Dental Bonding

Suppose you’ve chipped off a small amount of dental enamel. If this is the case, your restorative dentist can fix the damage with dental bonding in a single visit. Some patients prefer dental bonding because it’s affordable, quick, and straightforward. Generally, patients do not require anesthesia because they feel little to no discomfort during this procedure.

Porcelain Veneers

Although porcelain veneers are often associated with cosmetic dentistry, they can also be a long-lasting way to mend chipped teeth. Generally, a restorative dentist can attach porcelain veneers in two visits. 

Compared to other dental procedures (such as dental crowns and dental implants), porcelain veneers are conservative. Your restorative dentist will save as much of your natural tooth structure as possible before attaching the dental veneer.

Dental Crown

For larger chips or damaged molars, we suggest dental crowns. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover the tooth root. Typically, your restorative dentist can place a dental crown can in as little as two visits. 

If you have extensive structural damage, a custom-made crown can protect your tooth while relieving sensitivity. Dental crowns can last for years, depending on the type of crown, your restorative dentist’s skill-set, and how you treat your teeth.

Dental Implant

Seeing your restorative dentist as soon as possible could help protect your tooth from further damage and infection–potentially causing you to lose your tooth if you wait too long. 

Suppose this is the case, then your best restorative option in this worst-case scenario (tooth loss) is a dental implant. A dental implant-supported restoration is a highly successful dental device resembling a natural tooth in aesthetics, function, and feel.

See a Restorative Dentist ASAP!

Even though dental enamel is the hardest, most mineralized tissue in the human body, it has its limits. Thankfully, Dr. Pathak and his team of restorative dentists can help regain your smile if you damage your teeth. 

Don’t wait for a second longer! Meet with a restorative dentist by contacting one of our New South Wales dental offices:

  • Woolgoolga: (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour: (02) 6652-3242
Jun 05
Love0
A Woolgoolga dentist works on a patient's mouth

Our Woolgoolga Dentist Answers Four Questions You Should Ask at Every Checkup

By Dental Checkup No Comments

Dental checkups should be a part of your yearly health routine. These appointments help our Woolgoolga dentist determine the state of your oral health, but that’s not all. Regular dental checkups give you time to ask our team important questions about your dental health.

If you want to speak with our knowledgeable team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre now, then send us a quick message online. In the meantime, let our team of dental professionals address some little-known questions that you should be asking at every dental checkup. 

1. How can I avoid gum disease?

Experts estimate that approximately half of all adults have some form of periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). This progressive disease destroys gum tissue, which leads to tooth loss and jawbone recession. 

So, when patients ask us how to avoid gum disease, we always tell them:

  • Brush after every meal or at least twice a day
  • Floss daily
  • Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
  • Schedule dental checkups and cleanings at least every six months 

2. Am I using the right toothpaste and toothbrush?

Using the right oral hygiene products can make a world of difference in your oral health. For example, using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away tooth enamel. Similarly, whitening toothpastes can cause minor tooth sensitivity. That’s why it’s important to ask our team for help finding the right products for you. 

We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush (preferably electric!) and non-abrasive toothpaste. These products will preserve tooth enamel while removing harmful plaque buildup on the teeth. 

Need recommendations for particular oral hygiene products? No problem! We’ll gladly help you explore your options.

3. Could my diet be affecting my oral health?

Our diets play a major role in our overall health, including our oral health. Discussing your diet with our dental team could help you limit damaging behaviors and problematic foods that affect your mouth and body.

Here are some foods and drinks that our Woolgoolga dentist recommends avoiding if you want to preserve the health and appearance of your teeth and gums:   

  • Sugary foods and drinks 
  • Carbonated beverages
  • Overly acidic foods and drinks (like sour candies and lemonade)
  • Highly pigmented foods and drinks (like red wine, coffee, and tea)
  • Tobacco products
  • Alcohol

As with most things in life, moderation is key. So, while sweets and sodas are fine every once in a while, patients should still strive to drink plenty of water and eat nutrient-dense foods every day.

4. Am I grinding my teeth at night?

Many of us unknowingly grind our teeth while we sleep. But, this unconscious behavior can have catastrophic effects on our dental health. Fortunately, our team is specially trained to detect signs of grinding or clenching (also known as bruxism).

If you’re unsure if you grind your teeth at night, then let our Woolgoogla dentist know. We’ll look for signs of bruxism, as well as make suggestions on how to protect your teeth at night.  

Schedule a dental checkup today!

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we pride ourselves on educating our patients. So, if you’re ready to see how our knowledgeable team can help you get a better, brighter smile, then schedule a checkup today with our Woolgoolga dentist. 

Getting started is easy–just send our team a message online to request an appointment now!

May 30
Love0
Dental Cleaning Close-up

Book Dental Cleanings Before Whitening Treatments

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

When people want to improve the way their smile looks, they often look towards teeth whitening. In fact, the Australian Dental Associate reported that 1 in 5 people bleached their teeth in 2020. Do you want to whiten your teeth but haven’t scheduled a dental cleaning appointment in quite some time. If this sounds like you, then slow your roll. For many reasons, it’s wise to schedule dental cleanings before teeth whitening treatments. Dr. Arpit Pathak of Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre thoroughly explains why:

You might discover that you don’t need teeth whitening.

Teeth cleaning doesn’t whiten your teeth. Still, it is an effective way to remove surface-level stains. Professional dental cleanings aim to remove pesky plaque, tartar, and food particles that cannot at-home flossing and brushing cannot reach.

Specifically, tartar is infamous for staining dental enamel with a yellowish-brownish color. Once the plaque on your teeth calcifies into tartar, dental team members must use a scaler. A scaler is a specialized dental hygiene tool that effectively removes tartar. Removing gunk from your mouth not only improves the way your teeth feel. It can also lead to less intense dental staining.

Your dentist can spot tooth decay and gum disease before it worsens.

Dentists can look at their patients’ teeth close up during dental cleanings. Here, they can spot dental issues that aren’t always noticeable to the naked eye. Before any cosmetic dentistry treatment, it’s wise to treat any oral health issues to maximize results.

Furthermore, powerful bleaching agents found in teeth whitening products can extensively damage your teeth and aggravate your gums. Consequently, you might suffer further discomfort or irritation if you bleach your teeth with existing dental issues. If your teeth are already compromised before treatment, you might experience irreversible damage after whitening.

Usually, dental insurance covers dental cleanings.

Even though insurance companies deem dental cleanings medically necessary, they don’t believe this same sentiment towards whitening treatments. Cosmetic dentistry treatments (like teeth whitening) only improve the way your smile looks and must be paid for in full by the patient.

By undergoing teeth cleaning first, you’ll have better results.

If you have food particles, plaque, and tartar on the surface of your teeth, bleaching agents in teeth whitening treatments cannot work as effectively. So, removing plaque and tartar yields more effective and noticeable results. You might be more satisfied with the dramatic transformation by cleaning your teeth before whitening treatments.

Visit us for dental cleanings, whitening treatments, and more!

Aside from normal discoloration, you might accumulate staining from neglecting dental health for an extended period, smoking, drinking dark-colored liquids, and natural aging. If you’re still unhappy with the color of your teeth after dental cleanings, you might want to consider adding on whitening treatments to gently bleach your enamel. However, it’s possible that your staining won’t budge with a traditional whitening treatment. If deep, intrinsic staining is causing your discoloration, then you might have to consider more extensive cosmetic dentistry treatments (for example, veneers).

Are you self-conscious about your teeth? First, schedule a standard dental cleaning at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre by calling (02) 6654-0650 or messaging us online. If you are still insecure about your teeth, there’s no shame in adding on or coming back in for teeth whitening treatment at our Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbour, NSW locations. We look forward to helping you feel more comfortable and content with your smile.

May 19
Love0
older woman smiling with dental implants

Dental Implants: Are they justifiable?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Generally, you only get two chances to have nice teeth. The first set is free because you were born with them. The second set could be dental implant-supported restorations. Unfortunately, if you disregard your dental implants, your only option will be removable prosthetics (such as dentures).

When you decide that dental implants are worth the investment, our Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre team can help you determine if they are suitable. So, feel free to book your first dental implant consultation at one of our three convenient New South Wales locations. Here, we describe five “highs” you can expect with dental implants and how to start the dental implant process.

1. High Self-Confidence

Your smile might be the first thing that someone sees. Are you embarrassed by how your smile looks with visibly missing teeth, or don’t trust your loose teeth? If so, you might feel self-conscious about the way your smile looks. Furthermore, you might feel reluctant to live your life to the fullest since missing or loose teeth can pose a challenge for eating, speaking, and smiling.

If this all sounds too familiar, consider dental implants. Dental implants might restore your self-esteem because they closely mimic natural teeth in appearance, feel, and durability. Plus, the dental implant mechanism helps stimulate the jawbone, meaning that you shouldn’t have to worry about further jawbone loss or facial distortion if correctly implanted.

2. High Satisfaction

Many patients walk out of our office satisfied with their new smiles. Nonetheless, our responsibility is to set realistic expectations for dental implants and other restorative dentistry procedures. In a study published in the International Journal of Dentistry, researchers discovered that patients tend to have higher degrees of satisfaction when providers fully inform patients about dental implants and when patients have realistic expectations.

As responsible healthcare community members, it’s part of our job to virtuously inform patients of what to expect before, during, and after their treatment process. For this reason, our team takes the time to go over all the ins and outs of dental implants before you commit to treatment and are available to answer questions during any point of the process.

3. High Success Rate

Dental implants rarely fail, and success rates are 90-95%. Furthermore, factors that impact the survival rate include:

  • Bone quality
  • Age
  • Length of implant
  • Diameter of implant
  • Region of the implant

4. Highly Biocompatible

Generally, dental implants are made of titanium and zirconium, but a porcelain prosthetic is placed on top. Titanium, zirconium, and porcelain are biocompatible materials, meaning the materials don’t cause adverse consequences to a patient’s biology.

In recent decades, dentists started using biocompatible materials for dental implants due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Also, the dental prosthesis undergoes modifications so that microorganisms struggle to amass (but cannot inhibit peri-implantitis).

5. Relatively High Cost

We’ll admit it: cheap can be good. Sure, you might feel lucky if you catch bargains on groceries, clothes, or other necessities. However, we don’t recommend skimping out on your dental care.

While it’s true that dental implants can cost a pretty penny (upwards of $2,850), they are considered the most effective tooth replacement method. For some, the exceptional benefits of this procedure are priceless.

Are you interested in dental implants?

If the answer to the questions is an astounding “YES!” then message us online or feel free to call at the closest Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre location near you:

  • Woolgoolga, NSW (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour, NSW (02) 6652-3242

We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

May 12
Love0
dentist holding prosthetic dental dentures in hands

Traditional Prosthetic Dental vs. Implant-Supported Devices

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Have you lost some, most, or all of your natural teeth? If so, you might be wondering how much you can realistically expect from dental appliances. Is it possible to restore how your smile looks, functions, and feels? The Magic Smiles Dental Implant Centre team offers two options: traditional prosthetic dental devices and implant-supported devices.

There are fundamental differences between these two types of prosthetic dental devices. Whether you need a crown, bridge, or denture, here are some things that you need to consider before scheduling your consultation with a trusted NSW dentist.

Removability and Stability

Dentists secure traditional prosthetic dental devices in different ways. Crowns and bridges are attached to existing teeth—thus, deemed non-removable. On the other hand, denture prosthetists craft traditional dentures from an acrylic base with artificial teeth. Traditional dentures float on top of the gums, and wearers attach them with denture adhesive. Some denture wearers complain about shifting because it creates particular challenges, including:

  •       Slippage
  •       Difficulty eating and speaking
  •       Discomfort
  •       Mouth sores

Famously, implant-supported devices are secure and non-removable because the implant is directly inserted into the jawbone. Thus, creating a stable foundation for a prosthetic dental crown, bridge, or denture.

Procedure

Typically, dentists fit and install traditional prosthetic dental devices in just a few visits. However, the procedure process for dental implant-supported restorations is much more complicated. Dental implants require straightforward oral surgery and healing phases. Depending on the health of your jawbone, you might need a bone graft. Furthermore, bone grafting can solidify a base for the implant. Every patient heals differently, but it can take several months for your dental implant site to heal.

Jawbone Health

Did you know that your teeth are a critical component of preserving your jawbone density? Your natural teeth are embedded into your jawbone, and they are responsible for stimulating it through chewing and biting.

The alveolar bone is the portion of the jawbone that affixes the teeth in the mouth. It no longer receives stimulation when you lose a tooth. Consequently, the jawbone resorbs (begins to break down) when the tooth root is no longer present. This happens because the body believes it no longer uses or needs the jawbone, deteriorating and disappearing.

The key feature that distinguishes dental implant-supported devices from traditional prosthetic dental devices is the implant itself. Unlike traditional prosthetic dental devices, the dental implant mimics the natural tooth root, preserving the jawbone.

Risks

Tooth and jawbone loss is an ongoing issue with some traditional prosthetic dental appliances (such as bridges and dentures). Some potential issues include:

  •       Misalignment of remaining teeth
  •       Collapsed, distorted facial features
  •       Limited lip support
  •       Skin wrinkling around the mouth
  •       Communication challenges
  •       Temporomandibular joint pain
  •       Inadequate nutrition
  •       Sinus expansion

Although dental implant complications are rare, they do happen. Generally, the risks are easily treated and minor, including:

  •       Nerve damage
  •       Sinus problems
  •       Injury or damage to teeth, blood vessels, or other surrounding structures
  •       Infection at the implant site

Lifespan

There’s a common misconception that you’re set for life when you get traditional prosthetic dental devices or dental implant-supported appliances. However, both types of prosthetic dentistry devices require maintenance and possibly replacement. For example, dentures should be replaced after 10-15 years.

Although the implant is intended to be a permanent fixture, the prosthetic dental device (such as a crown) may need replacement eventually. In fact, 50-80% of single crowns should are replaced after 15-20 years of use. Although implant failure is unusual, factors that influence dental implant failure include:

  •       Unsatisfactory care and maintenance
  •       Inadequate bone density
  •       Smoking
  •       Teeth grinding
  •       Medical conditions (such as bleeding disorders, diabetes, and osteoporosis)
  •       Older age
  •       Radiation therapy
  •       Immunosuppressive drugs and blood-thinning medications

Ready to get started with traditional prosthetic dental or dental implant-supported devices?

Whether you’re interested in traditional prosthetic dental devices or implant-supported devices, Magic Smiles Dental Implant Centre can help. Find out more information by calling (02) 6654-0650 or messaging us online.

May 05
Love0
woman smiling after cosmetic dentistry services

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Change Your Life

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

Your smile plays a much more significant role in your life than you might believe. Smiling more can positively impact your mood, relationships, and even success. When you feel content about how your smile looks, you’ll probably want to smile more. Still, cosmetic dentistry is the field of dentistry that exists for those who want to enhance the way their smile looks. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on positive aesthetic changes, including whitening, straightening, and shaping the teeth.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our talented dental team provides comprehensive cosmetic dentistry services at our Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW locations. Message us online today if you’re unsatisfied with your smile when you look in the mirror.

Although having healthy teeth and gums should be prioritized, addressing shortcomings that detract from your smile’s appearance is also valuable. Outside of improving aesthetics, here are several ways that investing in cosmetic dentistry can benefit your life and might make you smile more:

Straightening your smile impacts your dental health.

Beyond beauty concerns, uncorrected alignment of the teeth and jaws can pose health problems. Generally, overcrowded teeth are more prone to trauma and are abnormal enamel wear. Additionally, crooked teeth can contribute to poor oral hygiene, tooth decay, and periodontal disease since they are more challenging to clean. If your teeth or bite are misaligned, starting orthodontic treatment (for example, Invisalign®) may be a worthy venture.

Cosmetic dentistry can be a step towards a healthier lifestyle.

Cosmetic dentistry is an investment, and it’s sensible to proactively protect your investment. To prolong the effects of cosmetic dentistry treatments, you may be keener to kick the bad habits holding your smile back.

For example, it’s no secret that using tobacco stains your teeth. If you want to keep your dramatic, professional teeth whitening results for as long as possible, you may not be as tempted to smoke or chew tobacco products.

Improving the way your smile looks may improve your mental and physical health.

Taking pride in a sparkling smile can cause a ripple effect on your overall well-being. Theoretically and empirically, self-esteem is associated with mental and physical health. Research indicates that positive self-esteem is linked to happiness, adjustment, satisfaction, and even better recovery after severe disease.

Scientifically, smiling makes you feel good.

According to Ron Gutman, the author of “Smile: The Astonishing Powers of a Simple Act,” investigators discovered that one smile can produce the same level of neurological stimulation as up to 2,000 chocolate bars. Simply, the act of smiling releases dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin that signal to your body that you’re happy and make you feel happier.

Smiling more might make you live a longer life.

If you’re happy and you know it, you might live longer. While many studies focus on positivity, smiling, and lifespan, let’s focus on one. After studying an old baseball team photo, American scientists concluded a seven-year average lifespan difference between big smilers and non-smilers in this specific photo.

See How Our Cosmetic Dentists Can Help You Smile More

Self-care isn’t selfish. If you want to finally feel better about your smile, set up a cosmetic dentistry consultation at any of our Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre sites by messaging us online or calling:

  •       Woolgoolga, NSW (02) 6654-0650
  •       Coffs Harbour, NSW (02) 6652-3242
Apr 29
Love0
dental hygienist identifies bleeding gums in patient

Why are my gums bleeding, and how can I stop it?

By Oral Health No Comments

There’s a chance that every adult might suffer from some degree of bleeding gums at some point in their lifetime. Although a small amount of blood in the mouth may not bother you, bleeding gums should not be ignored.

If you notice that your gums are bleeding, we suggest visiting a Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre location as soon as possible. Our experienced dental team diagnoses the root cause of bleeding gums and appropriately treats the condition.

There are many reasons why you could have bleeding gums. Some reasons are related to your oral health. Other times, bleeding gums can be the warning sign of a potentially even more significant problem. Here, we go over six reasons your gums may be bleeding and how to stop it.

1. You’re using an incorrect brushing technique.

When it comes to brushing your teeth, easy does it. Brushing your teeth too hard can damage your enamel and may cause discomfort, your gums to bleed, and your toothbrush bristles to fray. Likewise, the Australian Dental Association recommends gently brushing your teeth with a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles twice a day.

2. You’re new to routine flossing.

Don’t panic or give up! If you’ve just started flossing, some bleeding is normal. Thankfully, this symptom should go away in about a week as you master your flossing craft. If the bleeding persists after a week, speak with your dentist.

3. You’re deficient in vitamins and minerals.

A balanced diet full of vitamins and minerals can help your body perform at its peak. However, deficiencies can hinder your oral and overall health. Specifically, deficiencies in the following substances can lead to poor gum health:

  • Vitamin C helps our cells heal. So, a long-term vitamin C shortage might lead to inflamed gums that bleed easily.
  • Vitamin K has healthy blood clotting properties, so lacking this vitamin can hinder your body’s ability to prevent excessive bleeding in case of injury.
  • Iron helps the body produce healthy blood cells and maintain high-functioning blood vessels.

4. Your dental restorations are not fitting correctly.

Do you have any prior dental work? If so, make sure that your crown, denture, or other dental restoration fits properly. If a restoration slips out of place, it may cut the gum tissue.

5. You’re experiencing hormonal changes.

The hormonal imbalances during puberty and pregnancy can increase blood flow to the gums and affect your overall gum health. Thus, increasing the threat of developing gum disease.

6. You have gum disease.

Gum disease starts as an infection in the gingival tissue that has the potential to develop into something much more severe (periodontitis). Although largely preventable via regular dental visits, experts estimate that 3 in every 10 Australian adults have moderate to severe periodontitis. One of the earliest signs of gum disease is bleeding, and your dentist might even be able to reverse it if it’s caught in time!

Discover the Your Bleeding Gums Cause

Your first line of defense against bleeding gums should always be a trip to your dentist. If you noticed that your gums are bleeding, inflamed, or otherwise irritated, type “dentist near me” in your favorite search engine and schedule a check-up with a trusted dentist in your area.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team will thoroughly examine the state of your teeth and gums. Your dentist may recommend additional treatment or a visit with your primary care doctor if they suspect a systemic health issue. Early intervention is key to protecting your health, so reach out to our team by calling (02) 6654-0650 or messaging us online as soon as you can.