Oct 26
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Side-by-side comparison of teeth with cavities and teeth with teeth fillings in place.

Teeth Fillings 101: Everything You Want to Know

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Our teeth play an important role in our lives. They help us speak, bite, chew, and smile. But, if damage or decay sets in, then our teeth are likely to weaken over time. And, when our teeth are weak, our oral health suffers. Luckily, restorative dentistry options (like teeth fillings) are an excellent way to repair a damaged smile while also enhancing your oral and overall health. 

Serving patients in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, NSW, the family at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre is here to repair and restore your smile. From dental fillings to dentures, we have it all. So, don’t wait for damage or cavities to get worse–contact our team today to schedule an exam.

One way that our talented dentists can address dental damage and decay is with tooth fillings (also called dental fillings). In this post, our team tells you everything you want to know about fillings. 

What are tooth fillings?

As the name suggests, dental fillings clog (or fill in) areas of weakness caused by disease, injury, or overbrushing. 

Oftentimes, we use fillings to prevent cavities from spreading further. Other times, however, we may use tooth fillings to strengthen weak teeth or cover damage (like fracture lines, chips, and cracks). 

Whatever the case, dental fillings are a remarkably versatile, safe, and effective way to repair a damaged smile.

What kinds of dental fillings are there?

Dental professionals can use many different materials to fill in cavities or pits, such as:

  • Gold
  • Silver amalgam
  • Porcelain 
  • Composite resin

At Magic Smiles, our team strongly recommends composite resin dental fillings. These types of fillings are tooth-colored, which allows patients to seamlessly repair their grins. Furthermore, composite fillings:

  • Require less preparation
  • Are more biocompatible than metal fillings
  • Can address more dental issues (especially in the front teeth)

Does it hurt to get a tooth filling?

During treatment, patients should not feel any pain. We completely numb the treatment site before injecting local anesthesia to eliminate pain during the procedure. However, patients may still feel some light pressure during their treatment. 

If you feel even the slightest bit of pain, please let us know. Your comfort is our number one priority! 

How long does a dental filling last?

Depending on the material used, dental fillings may last for several years. For example, gold, silver, and porcelain fillings may last for 15 years, while composite resin fillings may last for only ten years.

Regardless of which material you choose, you can ensure and lengthen the lifespan of your filling by:

  • Conducting daily oral hygiene practices (like twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing)
  • Limiting troublesome behaviour (like opening packages with the teeth or munching on ice)
  • Visiting a dentist every six months for a routine exam and cleaning

Ask Us If Tooth Fillings Are Right For You

Have more questions about restorative dentistry? No problem! Contact the friendly team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today. We’ll gladly help you choose treatments that fortify your smile without sacrificing your comfort or budget. Just send our team a message here to get started!

Oct 20
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3d render of jaw with a dental bridge

5 Dental Bridge Facts

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Restoring missing teeth is a big deal, and every option should be carefully considered. If you’ve researched your restorative dentistry options, a dental bridge has likely popped up. 

To learn more about how a dental bridge can improve your smile, contact our friendly dental team at Magic Smiles. Our Woolgoolga dentists can evaluate your smile and determine if you are a suitable candidate for this restorative treatment option. 

Get more familiar with dental bridges by reading this blog! Here are five important facts to know before getting a dental bridge: 

1. A dental bridge replaces one, two, or three missing teeth in a row. 

A dental bridge is one of the most common tooth-replacement options. A traditional dental bridge (the most common type of bridge) comprises two dental crowns with pontics (false teeth) between the crowns. All parts are attached, so the bridge can only replace one, two, or three missing teeth in a row.  

2. There are different types of dental bridges.

The different types of dental bridges are: 

  • Conventional or Traditional: A traditional bridge is the best option for your smile if you have two healthy teeth on either side of the gap. 
  • Maryland: Often used to replace front teeth, the pontic is fixed to the back of the neighboring teeth with metal or porcelain wings. 
  • Cantilever: A cantilever bridge may be needed if you only have one tooth next to the missing tooth or teeth. 

Some dentists only offer conventional dental bridges because they are the most reliable and effective option. In contrast, Maryland and cantilever bridges often fail or need to be replaced after a few years. 

3. Some dental bridges require alteration to neighboring teeth. 

When placing a traditional or cantilever dental bridge, the dentist needs to remove enamel from the neighboring teeth or tooth. The dentist takes a special tool to grind the enamel down so that the crown or crowns fit securely over the teeth. This means that the patient will always need a crown on top of those teeth, even if their bridge is removed. 

4. Dental bridges do require special care (but not too much!). 

It’s important to care for your dental bridge properly. Brushing and floss should still be a part of your daily routine, even though you won’t be able to floss between your crowns and pontic. However, plaque and tartar can accumulate in the area between the pontic and the gums. A floss threader, interdental brush, or a water pick should be used to clean this area daily. 

5. There are alternatives to a dental bridge. 

If you are curious about other restorative dentistry options, ask your dentist about dentures and dental implants. 

Dentures are best suited for people who are missing an entire arch of teeth and who aren’t willing or able to undergo implant surgery. 

Dental implants are the only tooth-replacement option that replaces the tooth root. The implants can be attached to a crown, bridge, or denture. This option is permanent and can last for decades. 

Dental Bridge, Dental Implants, and Dentures in Woolgoolga

Learn about your tooth replacement options at one of our three locations: Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour. Call today to schedule your initial consultation!

Oct 12
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Man holds partial dentures in his hand

How healthy are your dentures? Take this quiz to find out!

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Whether partial or complete, your dentures require daily maintenance and upkeep. Although denture care is relatively easy, choosing the right products and techniques may not be. Fortunately, our restorative dentists are here to help.

 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we take great pride in teaching our patients how to properly care for their dentures. But, even with the proper care, patients should get their dental restorations checked regularly to assess their fit and function. Get your restorations checked today by our team in Woolgoolga, or Coffs Harbour, NSW, by sending our team an appointment request online.

 

Meanwhile, let’s test your knowledge about denture care. You might be surprised to learn that your dentures aren’t as healthy as they can be.

You should rinse your dentures after snacks, meals, and sugary drinks.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

True. Patients should remove and rinse their dentures with warm (never hot!) water after eating snacks or meals or after drinking sugary beverages. Not rinsing dentures after eating and drinking leaves patients vulnerable to bacterial overgrowth, irritation, and infection.

You should wear dentures while sleeping.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

False. Dental professionals recommend removing dentures nightly to disinfect the appliances in an overnight soaking solution. Nightly removal also gives the gums time to rest and recover, which limits the risk of contact ulcers in the mouth.

You should soak, disinfect, and remove denture stains with bleach.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

False. Patients should never use bleach or bleach-containing products to soak or clean dentures. Bleach can weaken the appliance, which can alter its performance and the way it feels in the mouth. Additionally, bleach can change the color of restorations in unpredictable and unappealing ways.

 

Instead, patients should use dentist-approved denture cleansers, like these safe and effective products.

Whitening toothpastes can brighten a dull denture.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

False. Whitening toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients that can scratch the surface of dentures. These micro-scratches can worsen stains and rob restorations of their lifelike shine.

 

Patients should use hydrogen peroxide and a soft-bristled toothbrush to lift stains from the appliance without damaging it.

You need to continue brushing your mouth after getting dentures.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

True. Even though patients may have no natural teeth remaining, they should still brush their mouths every day. Brushing the gums, tongue, and hard palate keeps bacteria at bay while also removing denture adhesive and other irritants from the mouth.

A dentist should assess the fit and function of a denture yearly.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

True. Experts recommend dental checkups every six to 12 months to keep dentures working comfortably and effectively. In fact, regular dental checkups at Magic Smiles can help patients keep their restorations functioning optimally for 15 years or longer!

Considering dentures? Schedule a consultation today!

Don’t let tooth loss keep you from enjoying your life to the fullest. Contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today to discuss your restorative options. 

 

Patients can conveniently reach one of three locations by submitting an online appointment request here.

 

 

Oct 05
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woman needing dental cleanings and orthodontics

Dental Cleanings & Orthodontics: 3 Benefits

By Dental Checkup No Comments

There are several benefits connected to dental cleanings and orthodontics. It is recommended that patients receive dental cleanings twice a year, and sometimes even more often depending on the patient’s oral health. 

Patients who are undergoing orthodontic treatment especially need to schedule regular dental cleanings to combat sensitivity, avoid excess plaque buildup, and prevent decalcification.  

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our doctors are passionate about helping patients with all oral health needs achieve optimal oral health. Call our Woolgoolga dentist to schedule your appointment. 

Here are three benefits of dental cleanings during orthodontic treatment: 

1. Maintain Oral Health

Braces make oral hygiene much more difficult than brushing or flossing without braces. Therefore, it is even more important to visit the dentist for a dental cleaning while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Dentists have the tools and techniques to clean the difficult-to-reach parts of your teeth and mouth, helping you maintain optimal oral health and avoid issues like cavities and gum disease.

Additionally, if they detect early signs of decay or disease, they can treat it immediately or schedule a follow-up appointment for the appropriate treatment. 

Your dentist will also be happy to discuss tools you can buy to make cleaning your teeth at home easier and more effective. He or she may recommend a Waterpik®, electric toothbrush, or other oral hygiene products. 

2. Avoid Excess Plaque Buildup

Plaque buildup can quickly lead to gum disease. In the early stages, a regular dental cleaning may reverse the gum disease. However, your dentist may recommend a deep dental cleaning (or scaling and root planing) to remove any hardened plaque along the gum line. If left untreated, gum disease can turn into an irreversible and destructive issue. 

Another key to avoiding plaque buildup is flossing. If flossing feels impossible for you, there are other tools to help; such as floss picks, floss brushes, and even a Waterpik®. An electric toothbrush is truly optimal for orthodontic patients as studies reveal they can remove 21% more plaque over a three-month period and reduce gingivitis by 11%. 

3. Prevent Decalcification

A high fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse can prevent decalcification, the loss of calcium in the enamel, that can appear where the brackets used to be. These spots on the teeth appear white and chalky. This usually happens if too much tartar builds up around the brackets.

Brushing and flossing properly at home and visiting the dentist at least every six months can reduce your risk of decalcification, so there are no surprises when your braces are removed. 

Schedule Your Dental Cleaning

If you have braces, it is especially important to visit the dentist for a dental cleaning at least every six months. To avoid issues like decalcification, gum disease, and sensitivity, you may want to visit more frequently! 

Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre offers three convenient locations to get dental cleanings; Coffs Harbour or Woolgoolga. Our team can’t wait to serve you! Schedule your dental cleaning with Magic Smiles today. 

Sep 27
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A large family smiles after receiving excellent care with dentists in Coffs Harbour

Dentists in Coffs Harbour Review Advancements in Dental Technology

By Oral Health No Comments

We live in a fast-paced world, and keeping up isn’t always easy. But, there are some professionals, like our dentists in Coffs Harbour, that must keep pace with this ever-changing world. One way that our team stays competitive and sharp in today’s society is with modern advancements in dental technology. 

 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Center, we take great pride in delivering the highest level of care. Our use of high-tech gadgets and imaging software allows us to do just that. So, don’t wait–come see how our dental technology can revolutionize your oral health. Request your appointment online or call our Coffs Harbour, NSW, dental office at (02) 6652-3242 to get started.

 

Here, we review some of the latest advancements in dental technology. You might be surprised to see just how comfortable and comprehensive contemporary dentistry can be!

Digital Oral Impressions

In the past, dentists had patients bite down on a goopy paste inside of a tray to get oral impressions. Dentists could then use these oral impressions to craft personalized dental restorations or orthodontia for each patient’s unique smile.

 

In theory, impression paste works well. In practice, it’s less than ideal.

 

The impression paste is often messy and difficult to work with. And, for many patients, the paste and impression trays are too large for their mouths, which can trigger their gag reflexes. As a result, traditional oral impressions are now an outdated way to map dentition.

 

Today, dentists in Coffs Harbour use digital oral impressions to gather highly-accurate images and topographical information about patients’ teeth. These impressions don’t use any messy paste, and they are far more comfortable than traditional impressions. And, our team can get digital impressions in a fraction of the time, which saves our patients time and money!

Digital X-Rays

Historically, dentists used film-based radiographic images to get pictures of underlying oral structures. Although traditional x-rays are incredibly useful to dentists in Coffs Harbour, they are not without their risks.

 

In fact, 2021 data suggest that film-based x-rays can deliver the equivalent of several days’ worth of background radiation. And, even though it may not feel like it, this amount of radiation can wreak havoc on cellular growth and regeneration.

 

Therefore, our dentists in Coffs Harbour use digital x-rays. These advanced radiographic images use 90% less radiation to capture crystal-clear images of the teeth and jaws. As a result, we can deliver better care without risking our patients’ overall health.

Soft Tissue Lasers

Some treatments, like treatments for periodontal disease or a gummy smile, require the removal of a small amount of gingival (gum) tissue. In the past, dentists in Coffs Harbour used razor-sharp scalpels to get the job done. But, even though it was effective, it wasn’t the most comfortable option for patients.

 

Today, laser dentistry has completely changed the game. Using gentle, soft-tissue lasers, our dentists in Coffs Harbour can comfortably and effectively remove gingival tissue without sacrificing our patients’ comfort. Not only that, but soft tissue lasers sterilize the treatment area, which leads to a better, faster recovery.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Dentists in Coffs Harbour

Are you ready to see how our team uses advanced dental technology to provide top-tier care in an inviting and inclusive atmosphere? Then, call Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Center today to schedule your appointment!

 

Patients can reach our dentists in Coffs Harbour online here, or they may call (02) 6652-3242 to get started.

 

Sep 19
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.