May 30
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.

Apr 21
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woman smiling before Invisalign treatment

Is Invisalign® worth it?

By Invisalign No Comments

If you’re considering starting a journey to straight teeth, you might be interested in Invisalign—and you’re not alone. Currently, 12 million people have achieved a more beautiful and healthier smile with this clear aligner system. Because of the solid global backing and success, you may still wonder if Invisalign is worth it for you? Well, the short and anticlimactic answer to this burning question is “it just depends.” 

Knowledge is power, and it’s worth visiting a dentist near you to know for sure. If you are in New South Wales, schedule an Invisalign consultation with Dr. Arpit Pathak or one of his colleagues as an initial step. Then, answer the following questions regarding Invisalign candidacy:

Do you value discretion?

One of the top reasons people choose Invisalign is that it is famously hard to detect. Invisalign aligners are crafted from transparent, biocompatible plastic designed to fit snugly on the teeth. If you want the fact that you’re straightening your teeth to be your little secret, then Invisalign is ideal.

How severe is your misalignment?

Although Align Technology is continually evolving, it is not suitable for everyone. Invisalign is ideal for patients with mild to moderate misalignment. Additionally, those who need to refresh and realign their teeth after previous orthodontic work may benefit from Invisalign. (Yes! Usually, it pays off to wear your retainer with fidelty!) Depending on your specific needs, braces may be better suited for your smile.

Do you want to be able to keep your diet the same?

It’s human nature to gravitate towards the foods we’ve learned to love. However, Dynamic Eating Psychology supports that restricting foods (especially those you enjoy) triggers a stress reaction in the body. Yes, it’s essential to eat some foods in moderation. However, saying “no” to foods that you have an emotional bond with can leave you feeling uneasy.

Unfortunately, fixed braces come with the hurdle of not being able to eat whatever you want. Sticky, tough, and crunchy foods are off-limits when wearing braces because they can snap the wires and brackets. Conversely, a bonus feature about Invisalign is that it’s removable. As long as you take out your aligners before meals and snacks, you can eat virtually whatever you want, whenever you want.

Are you interested in a potentially more comfortable treatment?

Usually, all orthodontic treatments have the potential to produce mild to moderate discomfort. Orthodontic treatment relies heavily on applying pressure to the tooth roots. Consequently, gentle orthodontic pressure can still cause soreness that you can usually mediate with over-the-counter medication.

Structurally, braces can be more uncomfortable than clear aligners. If dislodged, metal wires and brackets may scratch or poke the gums and sides of your mouth. On the other hand, Invisalign is made of plastic, which feels smooth.

Is Invisalign Really Worth Your While?

Though results and experiences vary from person to person, studies support that patients are satisfied post-Invisalign. Frankly, it’s hard to tell if clear aligner therapy is suitable for you without at least meeting with an Invisalign provider to see if you qualify.

If you’re still wondering if the Invisalign system is worth it, schedule an appointment at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre by calling (02) 6654-0650 or messaging us online. Our dentists are eager to evaluate your smile to see if Invisalign could benefit your life. 

Apr 10
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close up of teething baby with blonde hair and blue eyes

Children’s Dentistry Expert Explains: Everything You Need to Know about Teething and First Teeth

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

With a trusted children’s dentist and some accurate information, parents should have everything they need to take excellent care of their infant’s oral health. In this article, you’ll find some interesting facts about preventive oral care for babies, teething, and first teeth. We’ll also provide helpful tips and information to help you through the trials of teething.

Should you have questions or need a children’s dentist in the Coffs Harbour area, call Magic Smiles and schedule an appointment with our family-friendly dental team. We provide gentle, professional dental care for children, and we enjoy teaching parents how to take great care of their baby’s oral health, even before teeth erupt. 

Let’s start now with what you can expect inside your little one’s mouth in the first 36 months of his or her life. 

Daily Oral Care for Infants

Many parents are unaware that the bacteria that cause cavities is transmitted to an infant through his parents’ saliva. This occurs through kisses, sharing utensils, and other instances when the parent’s saliva enters the baby’s mouth, and this is completely natural. Though the infant has no teeth, the bacteria reside in the mouth until teeth erupt. 

Cleaning your infant’s mouth before and after teeth erupt is important. Before teeth erupt, use a soft, clean, wet cloth to gently rub the baby’s gums, tongue, and the interior of his cheeks. Repeat this a few times a week or daily.

Teething

Between ages three and six months, your baby should begin teething. You’ll notice symptoms that include but are not limited to:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Swollen, red gums
  • Slight cough
  • Fussiness and irritability
  • Lack of nighttime sleep
  • Disturbance in his eating pattern
  • Gnawing on his hands, toys, and anything else within reach
  • A slight temperature, usually under 101

Teething is uncomfortable, but you can soothe your baby’s pain by offering a refrigerated (not frozen) teething toy or spoon; gently rubbing his gums with your clean finger; offering a teething biscuit; or, with your pediatrician’s approval, giving the baby an appropriate dose of an infant pain reliever. Note that over-the-counter pain relievers are only appropriate for babies over 6 months of age.

Expect teething to occur on and off throughout the baby’s first few years.

First Teeth

Though all infants are different, for most, the lower center teeth erupt one after the other, followed by the top center teeth. Next come the two teeth on either side of the top center teeth, then those on either side of the bottom center teeth. 

By three years of age, your little one will probably have all 20 primary teeth, also called baby teeth or temporary teeth.

Care for your baby’s teeth by using an infant toothbrush and un-fluoridated infant toothpaste or water. Brush in the morning and evening, and when multiple teeth erupt you can add flossing to the routine. Also, only allow your baby or toddler to fall asleep with a bottle or cup that contains water. Milk, juice, and other beverages can cause a painful, destructive dental condition called baby bottle tooth decay.

Your Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga Children’s Dentist

Our team at Magic Smiles wants to partner with you to help your little ones enjoy healthy teeth and bright smiles when their teeth erupt and throughout life. Call us today at one of our three locations or complete a contact form on our website to schedule a consultation for you or an appointment for your baby. 

Apr 07
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image of cancerous and healthy cells under a microscope

Our Coffs Harbor Dentist Explains How to Prevent and Treat Oral Cancer

By Dental Checkup No Comments

Do you have a sore or new growth in your mouth that won’t resolve itself? If so, it is worth scheduling an appointment with your dentist in Coffs Harbor. Sadly, a sore that lingers for more than a few weeks is one of the most common signs of oral cancer. Oral cancer happens when cancerous cells form in the mouth or the oropharynx (the part of the throat at the back of the mouth).

In this comprehensive guide to oral cancer, Dr. Pathak goes over how to prevent oral cancer, treat it, and ways that survivors can improve their quality of life after beating cancer.

Prevention

Good news! Oral cancer can be avoided, and people have an active role in avoiding it. People are more likely to survive oral cancer with early detection. Learning the warning signs and going to routine oral cancer screenings can help you prevent this potentially life-threatening condition.

Learn the Warning Signs of Oral Cancer

You can detect oral cancer with monthly self-examination. If you notice any unusual differences in your mouth, throat, or neck, speak with your dentist immediately.

Routine Oral Cancer Screenings

Being mindful about early oral cancer detection could save your life. Early detection can dramatically increase long-term survival rates. For these reasons, Dr. Pathak recommends oral cancer screenings:

  •       Every three years for adults over 20
  •       Every year for patients over 40

At our Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centres scattered across New South Wales, we use VELscope® during oral cancer screenings. VELscope is a non-invasive yet powerful device that can identify oral mucosal abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.

Oral Cancer Treatment

The goal of cancer treatment is to cure cancer so that patients can live longer. Here are some treatments to consider if you have oral cancer:

Radiation

Radiation therapy uses intense energy beams to destroy and restrict the growth of cancerous cells.

Chemotherapy

In a nutshell, chemotherapy involves using anti-cancer drugs to kill cancer cells.

Surgery

While there are many surgeries for oral cancer, the commonality among all surgeries is to remove cancerous tissue.

Life After Oral Cancer

Congratulations! You’ve beaten cancer. If this sounds like it applies to you, you may be interested in medical procedures and therapies intended to improve your quality of life:

Periodontal and Restorative Dentistry

As previously mentioned, some people opt for chemo and radiation to fight cancer. Although often lifesaving, this type of therapy can damage the salivary glands and oral tissue lining and cause a slew of oral health problems, like:

  •       Dry mouth
  •       Tooth decay
  •       Periodontal disease
  •       Tooth loss

Consequently, patients with oral cancer may need additional dental services to protect and improve their oral health.

Reconstructive Surgery

A common misconception is that oral cancer can only exist in your mouth. However, cancerous cells can metastasize, which means they can spread from the mouth to other parts of the body. If oral cancer metastasizes, surgeons can reconstruct tissue, bones, and nerves so that the body can return to as normal as possible.

Voice Restoration Services

If a laryngectomy is medically necessary, an oral cancer patient may opt for voice restoration services two weeks after surgery. With the power of speech therapy and speech aids (for example, an electrolarynx), people can speak to their loved ones again.

Meet with Our Team for Oral Cancer Screening and More

If it’s time for an oral cancer screening, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment. Call (02) 6652-3242 or message us online.

Mar 30
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woman drinking water and suffering from Xerostomia

Xerostomia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

By Oral Health No Comments

Does your mouth feel dry, even though you’re adequately hydrated? Then, you might be suffering from a condition known as xerostomia–or dry mouth. This condition can have serious consequences on your mental, social, and oral health.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we understand the frustrations and dangers that come along with xerostomia. So, if you’re ready to get long-lasting relief from dry mouth, then request a consultation online at one of our three New South Wales dental clinics. 

Understanding the symptoms and causes of xerostomia is key to treating the condition. Here, Dr. Arpit Pathak will tell you everything you need to know about dry mouth so you can reclaim your life and oral health.

Xerostomia Explained

Xerostomia is a condition in which the salivary glands produce limited moisture. In turn, the mouth cannot stay adequately lubricated for optimal health and function. 

Dry mouth is extremely common, as research indicates that it may affect over half of the general population. For some patients, it is a minor inconvenience. For others, it can have a tremendous impact on their oral health.

Symptoms of Dry Mouth

As the name implies, dry mouth results in a parched sensation in the oral cavity. However, other symptoms may include:

  • A sticky feeling in the mouth
  • Stringy or thick saliva
  • Difficulty swallowing, chewing, or speaking
  • Changes in taste
  • Issues wearing oral appliances, like dentures
  • A dry or abnormally-textured tongue
  • Hoarseness 
  • A sore throat
  • Bad Breath
  • An oral infection or mouth sores

If you’re suffering from one or all of these conditions, then it’s vital to contact Magic Smiles as soon as possible. Early treatment may prevent significant dental damage.

Causes of Dry Mouth

Many factors can limit saliva production, including:

  • Medications: Antihistamines, pain medications, muscle relaxers, and anti-anxiety medications are just a few drugs that can restrict saliva production.
  • Age: As we get older, our salivary glands struggle to produce sufficient moisture.
  • Nerve damage: Trauma to the head and neck can garble neurological messages sent to the salivary glands.
  • Cancer treatments: A common side effect of chemotherapy is xerostomia.
  • Tobacco, alcohol, caffeine, and recreational drug use: These substances have a tendency to cause or worsen dry mouth.
  • Certain health conditions: Autoimmune diseases, diabetes, stroke, and mouth breathing can all affect saliva production.’

Regardless of the cause, dry mouth can lead to extensive dental decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Subsequently, patients should be proactive in seeking dry mouth remedies.

How to Treat Xerostomia

There are several ways you can deal with xerostomia, such as: 

  • Drinking more water throughout the day
  • Limiting caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drug use
  • Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies and cough drops
  • Using over-the-counter saliva substitutes or a xylitol-based mouthwash
  • Using a humidifier in your home
  • Getting a prescription medication to increase saliva production

Schedule a Consultation for Dry Mouth Today

Addressing dry mouth at a routine dental checkup is a great first step toward treating the condition. Our compassionate team will gladly help you find a suitable, long-lasting solution to increase your saliva production. So, stop living with xerostomia, and start seeking treatment today.

Patients can contact our team online here, or they may call one of our three Magic Smiles locations in:

  • Woolgoolga: (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour: (02) 6652-3242
Mar 17
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woman holding head from headache due to teeth grinding

Four Consequences of Teeth Grinding

By Oral Health No Comments

Recently, dentists have noticed a significant rise in teeth-grinding and stress-related oral health problems, such as:

  • Cracked teeth
  • Tender jaws
  • Headaches

Bruxism is the medical term that describes the unconscious habit of clenching or grinding the teeth while awake or asleep. Although mild bruxism may not warrant treatment, severe teeth grinding should be treated as soon as possible. Swift treatment may prevent further permanent tooth, mouth, and jaw damage.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team of dentists dedicate their time, knowledge, and skills to manage and improve all aspects of oral health. Schedule a consultation so that we can target and treat the source of your chronic teeth grinding.

Aside from potentially disrupting your sleep, frequent or severe bruxism can lead to an array of severe side effects that can destroy your teeth, gums, jaw, and overall wellness. Continue reading to discover four unexpected consequences of teeth grinding and how it may affect your health.

1. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

Temporomandibular joints are the pair of hinge joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull. Precisely, TMJs are the joints that glide and pivot at the front of each ear. They control the mandible (the lower jaw) to help people eat, speak, and complete other tasks that require mouth movements.

TMJ disorders are prevalent among patients with bruxism due to overwork. Eventually, excessive grinding can influence the structure of the muscles and ligaments that form the jaw. This leads to temporomandibular disorders (TMD), which can showcase as difficulty talking, chewing, or more.

2. Irreversible Tooth Damage

Unsurprisingly, tooth damage is a leading consequence of bruxism. Continual teeth grinding can wear down the enamel, which can:

  • Increase the risk of decay
  • Cause teeth to be more susceptible to sensitivity
  • Decrease tooth height

Also, incessant stress and pressure can crack, chip, fracture, or even loosen teeth. If you have existing dental work, bruxism can destroy fillings, crowns, or bridges.

3. Gum Recession

Bruxism doesn’t just damage your teeth. Unfortunately, the stress from teeth grinding can also negatively affect your gums. Gradually, bruxism may lead to gum recession. Gum recession can result in:

  • Shifted or loose teeth
  • Gum pockets that trap bacteria
  • Exposed tooth roots
  • Dental sensitivity

4. Headaches and Facial Pain

Headaches are frequently linked with TMJ syndromes, which, as previously mentioned, is a sign of bruxism. Why does this happen? The temporomandibular joint shares a direct relationship with facial muscles.

Bruxism places consistent pressure on the jaw joints and muscles, which may result in inflammation and swelling. This inflammation can travel to the surrounding muscles in the face, head, ears, and neck (resulting in a secondary headache).

Contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre for All Your Family’s Oral Health Concerns

If you think that you or a loved one grind or clench your teeth excessively, contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre immediately. There are several treatment options for bruxism, such as prescribing oral appliances or orthodontics for bruxism. Furthermore, if you do not respond to mild or moderate treatment, your Magic Smiles dentist can refer you to an oral surgeon for more in-depth treatment.

Every scenario is one-of-a-kind, so schedule a consultation so we can start your journey to better oral health: