Mar 10
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woman holding dental tools as part of preventive dentistry visit

Why is preventive dentistry important?

By Preventative Dentistry No Comments

Generally speaking, the majority of dentists recommend a dental check-up every 6 to 12 months for most cases as part of preventive dentistry. However, in 2017-2018, more than half of Australians had seen a dentist or dental professional in the last 12 months. 

While people have reasons for not visiting the dentist as often as they need to, preventive care is vital for having a healthy and attractive smile. At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, Dr. Arpit Pathak and his team take their time to perform gentle check-ups, dental cleans, and other preventive practices. Connect with our clinical family soon.

By taking care of your oral health through preventive dentistry, you also reap these four benefits:

1. Early Detection

Most dental problems don’t showcase themselves until too late. The simplest way to catch cavities, periodontal disease, oral cancer, and oral health problems is to schedule preventive appointments. 

During your checkup, our dentist will inspect your teeth and gums for indications of bacterial buildup, gum recession, and oral cancer. Also, he or she will scan the jaw area, inside the cheek, neck, and under tongue for lesions, bumps, or anything that appears strange. After, he or she will suggest the appropriate treatment to improve your health and provide education and next steps on how to care for your mouth.

2. Gain Home Care Knowledge

Although you can expect quality care at our New South Wales locations, what happens when you leave the dentist clinic? Most preventive dentistry does not occur in the office but rather in your daily life. 

Home care is essential for preventing oral health conditions, such as cavities. Therefore, we take our time to teach patients of all ages to care for their teeth at home properly. Flossing and brushing daily with the right tools and techniques can save your oral (and overall) wellness.

3. Improves Wellness

Preserving your oral hygiene through preventive methods affects your oral and overall health. Some preventive dentistry methods can strengthen your teeth. However, it’s fairly normal to get tiny cracks and chips from time to time. Often, this damage is undetectable to the untrained eye. Your dentist can identify and correct superficial problems before they worsen with preventive visits. Thereby maintaining the dental appearance and function of your pearly whites.

Likewise, preventing periodontal disease has an impact on your overall health. Did you know gum disease may increase your chance of developing or exacerbating certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease?

4. Saves Money in the Long Run

Neglect can lead to cavities, trauma, and other uncomfortable dental issues, which may require costly dental treatments to mediate. Worse still, extensive decay and damage can necessitate pulling a tooth, generating the need for more cosmetic and restorative dental procedures to replace them (plus maintenance). Save some cash and avoid potentially undergoing numerous dental procedures by prioritizing routine dental checkups and cleaning.

Inquire About Preventive Dentistry in Woolgoolga, NSW

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our dedicated staff is eager to answer your questions, provide helpful insights about caring for your teeth at home, and provide excellent care. We have a wide range of dental services to support your family’s oral health. 

When was your last dental checkup? If you are due for your next dental visit, consult with us today. Call (02) 6654-0650 or message us online right now.

Mar 07
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male patient holding face and suffering from toothache

Woolgoolga Emergency Dentist Explains What Counts as a Dental Emergency

By Emergency Dentist No Comments

Some people ignore their dental problems and don’t realize that they can worsen when left treated. Dental emergencies are classified as any incident involving the mouth which requires immediate care. Emergency dentist Dr. Arpit Pathak and his team help patients in New South Wales identify the root cause of their oral health problems and treat them accordingly. 

Still, not every situation is considered a dental emergency. To help you understand if you need to take a trip to the emergency room or visit an emergency dentist, ask yourself these five questions. If your answer is “yes” to any of the following questions, schedule an emergency dental appointment as soon as possible.

1. Are you in extreme dental pain?

People should not take toothaches lightly. Dental pain is a red flag. It’s the body’s way of telling us that something is not right in the mouth, such as a cavity, exposed nerves, or a broken tooth.

Until you’re able to visit the dentist, alleviate discomfort by:

  • Using over-the-counter pain medication as directed
  • Rinsing with saltwater
  • Applying a cold compress 

2. Are you experiencing non-stop bleeding from the mouth?

Although irritated gums are not necessarily a dental emergency, gums that won’t stop bleeding may indicate a serious underlying health issue. See your dentist right away if you are experiencing these issues.

3. Do you have sores that won’t resolve themself? 

If your tongue, mouth, or gums are covered with sores that won’t resolve themselves, this could indicate an underlying problem: oral cancer. Annually, approximately 2500 new oral and pharyngeal cancer cases are registered in Australia. See your dentist right away if you are experiencing these symptoms.

4. Do you have an infection or pimple on your gums?

If you notice swelling around your gums with pus coming out, this is a severe tooth infection called a tooth abscess. Don’t ignore it. Unfortunately, this infection can spread into your surrounding tissue and other areas of the body. Visit your dentist before it’s too late.

5. Do you have a dislodged permanent tooth?

Although it’s normal for children to shed their baby teeth as they grow up, it’s abnormal for adults to lose their permanent teeth. Even without discomfort, a loose tooth is alarming and may be linked to:

  • Periodontal disease
  • Trauma
  • Stress-related bruxism
  • Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause)

Ideally, you should schedule an emergency dental visit as soon as you notice a tooth is loose. Gradually, a loose tooth may worsen and cause damage to the gums and tooth roots, which may lead to infection or even loss. 

Meet with an Emergency Dentist Soon

Now that you’ve answered all of the essential questions and half self-assed your symptoms, you should be able to decide whether you must seek immediate attention or not: 

  • If you are experiencing any common signs indicative of a dental emergency, schedule an emergency dental appointment.
  • If you feel like you are suffering from life-threatening symptoms, please visit the emergency room as soon as possible. Most emergency rooms can provide antibiotics and help with fractured teeth or jaws (when necessary). 

Although comprehensive dental checkups can keep cavities and periodontal disease at bay, dental emergencies happen from time to time. If you are dealing with a dental emergency, it’s time to prevent it from worsening. Contact one of our three Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre locations, including: 

  • Woolgoolga (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour (02) 6652-3242
Feb 23
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couple smiling

Tooth Crown: Definition, Cost, and Durability

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Your oral health is important. That’s why regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for your overall health. But, even with proper oral hygiene and care, it’s still possible to experience dental damage due to decay or trauma. When this happens, you’ll need to seek restorative dentistry solutions (like a tooth crown!) as soon as possible.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our talented and caring team specializes in custom-made dental restorations that look great and feel even better. So, if you need to reestablish and reinforce your smile, contact our Coffs Harbour office immediately at (02) 6652-3242 or online here.

What is a tooth crown?

A tooth crown–also known as a dental crown or cap–is a tooth-shaped covering placed over a single tooth. It is a common dental restoration used for:

  • Protecting weakened or damaged teeth (often from dental decay)
  • Reinforcing a broken or severely worn tooth
  • Shielding a tooth after root canal therapy
  • Covering dental implants
  • Keeping dental bridges in place

A qualified dental professional permanently bonds a tooth crown to a damaged tooth. By covering a damaged tooth, dentists ensure that patients:

  • Restore their natural chewing and speaking ability
  • Prevent further damaging the tooth and surrounding teeth
  • Reduce tooth sensitivity 

Are there different kinds of dental crowns?

In short, yes! Patients can choose a dental crown that fits their unique health and aesthetic goals, including:

  • All ceramic: All-ceramic caps–also known as porcelain crowns–are an aesthetically-pleasing option. This is because dentists can expertly color match the cap to their patients’ surrounding teeth. All-ceramic crowns are ideal for front teeth because they can look seamless when you smile.
  • Metal: These dental crowns are more noticeable than all-ceramic crowns, but they are remarkably durable. So, patients who need a tooth crown on one of their back teeth may opt for a metal restoration.
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal: As the name suggests, this tooth crown offers benefits from both ceramic and metal restorations. This means that dentists can color match the ceramic cap to your surrounding teeth. However, the metal under the ceramic cap may appear as a dark shadow along the gum line.
  • Zirconia: Zirconium dioxide is a heavy-duty, biocompatible type of ceramic. As such, it provides unparalleled strength and longevity as a dental restoration. However, zirconia tooth crowns may not be as aesthetically-pleasing as all-ceramic caps.

How long can I expect my tooth crown to last?

Experts estimate that dental crowns may last for over a decade with the proper care. So, patients are encouraged to:

  • Brush at least twice daily
  • Floss everyday
  • Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings
  • Avoid tooth-damaging behavior, such as nail-biting, using teeth to open packaging, and eating excessively hard or sticky foods

How much do dental crowns cost?

Currently, patients can expect to pay between about $269 and $1,541 for a crown out of pocket.

However, patients who do not restore damaged teeth with a dental cap will run the risk of a painful tooth infection. If a damaged tooth gets infected, then a root canal may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading. And a root canal could cost patients a few hundred dollars (in addition to the cost of a restorative crown!).  

Protect your oral health—schedule an appointment today!

Untreated dental damage and decay can lead to increasingly painful and costly issues down the line. So, if you need restorative dental care, then don’t delay–contact one of our three offices online today!

Want to talk to us in person? Call the Magic Smiles team that’s closest to you!

  • Woolgoolga: (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour: (02) 6652-3242
Feb 20
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woman smiling and receiving dental checkup from gentle dentist

How to Tell that It’s Time for a Dental Checkup

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

Dental checkups are crucial for preventing problems and preserving the teeth, gums, and supporting tissues. Additionally, checkups serve as an opportunity for dentists to identify the early signs of oral health conditions (before they get worse).

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, Dr. Arpit Pathak assists families across New South Wales in achieving optimal oral health. Before booking your next dental wellness check, answer these six questions to discover if it’s actually time to visit the dentist.

1. Are you experiencing dental sensitivity or pain?

Though ranging in severity, dental sensitivity or pain can indicate tooth decay or gum disease. Besides a cavity or periodontal disease, sensitive teeth can reveal:

  • Eroded enamel
  • Fractured teeth
  • Worn down fillings
  • An exposed tooth root

As you can tell, there could be many reasons why your teeth feel sensitive or uncomfortable. Therefore, it’s the best bet to visit a general dentist if you are experiencing these symptoms.

2. Are your gums bleeding, sensitive, or receding?

Here are some scenarios that may indicate gum disease or brushing too hard:

  • You notice blood in the sink after you brush your teeth
  • Your teeth feel sensitive after eating or drinking something very hot or cold
  • Your teeth look longer than usual

If these symptoms sound familiar, a dentist can help you identify the cause of your suffering and offer appropriate intervention.

3. Do you have oral sores that won’t heal on their own?

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) describes mouth ulcers as “more than a troubling tingle.” Generally, ulcers (oral sores) are a short-lived immune reaction and signify that the body working quickly to repair the damage. Sometimes, oral sores form from outside forces. For example, ulcers are likely to develop when wearing improperly fitted dentures. Other times, stress, illness, and nutritional deficits can cause aphthous sores to form.

However, if you’ve noticed that an ulcer lasts longer than a week (or two), this could be a sign of oral cancer. If so, get checked out by a medical professional immediately.

4. Does your breath smell bad or teeth look yellow?

Having bad breath and yellow teeth can feel embarrassing. Despite good oral hygiene, these socially awkward symptoms can still occur (and plaque and tartar build-up is likely the culprit). Luckily, a skilled dental team can help tackle the source of this problem.

5. Do you have previous dental work that feels off?

Some people believe once they’ve had dental work, they never have to worry about their teeth ever again. However, this is far from the truth. If you’ve had any form of cosmetic or restorative work in the past, it’s crucial to keep an eye on that area. Crowns, dental implants, and other restorations can become loose or crack. If this happens, schedule an appointment with a general dentist immediately to help prevent further damage.

6. Has it been over six months since your last dental checkup?

When was the last time you had a dental checkup? Even though everybody is different, a good rule of thumb is to visit the dentist every 6 to 12 months. Commit to your oral health by scheduling your next appointment at one of many Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre locations. Check out our contact page to find a location closest to you.

Feb 10
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Smiling adult lady with dentures

Dentures: What They Are & How Much They Cost

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Have you lost your natural teeth because of decay, damage, or an accident? If so, you are not alone. According to the most recent Australia’s Adult Oral Health Tracker report, about 1 in 10 Australian adults suffer from severe tooth loss. If you are missing some or all of your teeth, dentures can restore the way your smile looks and add structure to the face. Nevertheless, dentures are much more than cosmetic devices. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, dentures can enhance chewing and speaking capabilities for the wearer. 

Just like the patients that use them, dentures are not one-size-fits-all. Today, a wide range of contemporary styles is available to meet individualized needs. At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our talented team can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Book one-on-one time with our in-house prosthodontist to learn more about which style of denture is most suitable for your unique scenario.

Partial

Partial dentures are an excellent option for anyone who has lost a few teeth. Consequently, natural teeth tend to shift when spaces form because of loss. To combat this issue, partials can preserve the placement of the remaining surrounding natural teeth.

Currently, partials range from $907-$1574, and the prices largely depend on the type of material used. Generally speaking, a partial denture with a resin base is more affordable than a partial denture with a cast metal framework (including rests and retainers).

Full

If you are missing an entire row of teeth, full (complete) dentures can effectively replace all natural teeth in the upper or lower jaws. This style of dentures is ideal for patients who have lost the majority (or all) of their teeth.

In Australia, here is what you can expect to pay:

  • Upper or lower full: Cost around $1,412 
  • Upper and lower: Cost about 2,562.

Implant-Supported

Compared to conventional style, implant-supported dentures:

  • Offer increased stability: Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures do not rely on dental adhesive and muscles in the mouth to stabilize. Instead, implant-supported appliances work by placing four implants into the upper or lower jawbone. 
  • Prevent jawbone atrophy: Dental implants act like natural tooth roots so that the supporting bone can withstand chewing forces.
  • Improved function and feel: In a 2019 study, people with implant-supported overdentures reported more satisfaction than those with traditional dentures.
  • Require lower maintenance: Usually, implant-supported appliances require less maintenance than traditional dentures. They do not require daily removal and can be taken care of similarly to natural teeth.

Dental implants can support both partial and full dentures at a higher up-front cost.

Request a Consultation Today

In summary, dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to give people who are missing multiple teeth a chance to smile, eat, and speak with confidence again. Also, the total cost reflects the type of denture selected, the insurance policy, and the location where he or she decides to go for treatment. 

A brand-new smile starts with a simple dental visit. Whether you are missing one, two, or more natural teeth, our Woolgoolga prosthodontist can create a fresh set of dentures to restore your smile. What are you waiting for? Call (02) 6654-0650 or message us online right now.

Feb 04
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Close up of woman mouth with red gums

“Why do I have red gums?” And Other Gingivitis FAQs

By Oral Health No Comments

Redness, tenderness, and bleeding, oh my! If this describes your gums, your dentist may tell you that you have developed the earliest form of gum disease. Gingivitis is a sneaky yet prevalent condition signified by inflamed, red gums. In this blog, Dr. Arpit Pathak of Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre in Woolgoolga, NSW, answers patients’ commonly asked questions about gingivitis.

1. What causes gingivitis?

Unfortunately, anyone can develop gum disease. However, the most common reason people develop gingivitis is poor oral hygiene. When people neglect oral care, this creates conditions in the mouth that encourage plaque (sticky film of bacteria) formations. After plaque forms on the teeth and is not sufficiently removed, it hardens into tartar. 

Because a dental hygienist can only remove tartar, tartar deposits continue to collect bacteria. Over time, these deposits become increasingly difficult to remove and create a protective shield for bacteria. This bacterial accumulation leads to swollen, red gums and irritation along the gumline.

2. What are some risk factors?

In addition to poor oral hygiene, some risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing this condition include:

  • Dry mouth
  • Advanced age
  • Tobacco usage
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Genetics
  • Hormonal changes
  • Crooked teeth
  • Certain medical conditions and medications
  • Improperly fitted dental restorations

3. What are the dangers of gum disease?

Untreated gingivitis can progress and spread to the underlying tissue and bone. When gingivitis advances into periodontal disease, it can lead to more severe complications (including gum recession and loose teeth).

Also, several studies suggest that bacteria associated with periodontal disease may be responsible for advancing systemic disease as it enters the bloodstream (and vice versa). Furthermore, some researchers link chronically inflamed gums to heart disease, certain cancers, and more.

4. How can people prevent gingivitis?

Fortunately, gingivitis is avoidable in most cases. Here are three healthy habits to adopt:

  • Practice good oral hygiene: Every day, brush and floss at least twice (in the morning and before going to bed). 
  • Visit the dentist routinely: As a rule of thumb, people should visit the dentist at least every six months for dental cleanings and exams. The chances are that a dentist can catch and control gum disease with more frequent visits. 
  • Stay overall healthy: As mentioned earlier, gum disease may be linked to systemic health. Preventing disease via eating healthy, managing blood sugar, and staying fit can help prevent systemic diseases (such as diabetes). 

5. Are the symptoms of gingivitis (such as red gums) reversible?

Luckily, gingivitis is reversible if you catch it in time. Scaling and root planing is a deep dental cleaning that can remove all traces of irritating bacteria, plaque, and tartar.

Unfortunately, gingivitis is the precursor to full-blown periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a permanent condition that requires more ongoing care. As the disease advances, more severe symptoms (such as tooth loss) may occur if neglected.

6. What actions must people take if they suspect gum disease?

If you believe that you may be suffering from gingivitis or any form of gum disease, it’s best practice to visit an experienced dentist before the condition escalates. Prompt treatment can reverse gingivitis and prevent the progression of more serious periodontal disease.

Have you noticed that you or a loved one are experiencing the previously mentioned gingivitis symptoms? If you are experiencing red gums, bleeding, or sensitivity, contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre in Woolgoolga before it’s too late. Call  (02) 6654-0650 or message us online straight away.

Jan 24
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Three Smiling Friends

Should I Receive a Porcelain Crown or Veneers?

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

If you are considering enhancing your smile, a porcelain crown and veneers can be equally effective options. Our modern dental porcelain can be matched to virtually any shade of dental tissue, so your newly enhanced tooth or teeth will blend naturally with the rest of your smile. The right treatment for you will depend on several factors, including your dental health, your personal cosmetic goals, and the degree of enhancement you require. 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, a member of our team can explain both options at your consultation and help you choose the optimal treatment. Contact us today to schedule your cosmetic evaluation. 

What Is a Porcelain Crown?

A porcelain dental crown is a larger restoration, shaped like a tooth. Because it fits over the entire tooth, your dentist will need to significantly reshape it. He or she will gently trim away tissue before taking impressions. These impressions will enable our trusted partner lab to create a crown that fits comfortably and snugly. Your dentist will also carefully match the porcelain to your surrounding teeth to ensure a seamless and beautiful smile. 

Candidates for a Porcelain Crown

Because a crown requires significant changes to your tooth, we typically recommend this type of restoration for severe cosmetic issues or structural damage. A crown may be right for you if you struggle with:

 

  • Significant decay that is too widespread for a filling
  • An infected tooth
  • A cracked tooth
  • An acutely worn tooth that offsets the force of your bite
  • A severely misshapen tooth 

What Are Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are much smaller than crowns and, as such, require less alteration to your teeth. To place a veneer, your dentist will simply need to trim off the thin layer of dental enamel in the front of your tooth. As with a porcelain crown, he will then take impressions of your tooth and send them, along with an appropriate color selection, to our lab. The technicians will craft a wafer-thin piece of porcelain that will form a new facade for your tooth. 

Candidates for Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are a more conservative option than a porcelain crown. Accordingly, they may be a better choice if you are simply struggling with cosmetic dentistry concerns, rather than structural or functional issues. We may recommend veneers if you want to address:

  • Discoloration, such as internal staining, that teeth whitening cannot reduce
  • Small cracks and chips in your teeth
  • Minor gaps and misalignment that do not require orthodontic care
  • Worn edges that do not affect the balance of your bite 
  • Slightly misshapen or small teeth 

In addition, to qualify for veneers, your teeth need to be structurally sound. If you want to improve the look of a tooth with a cavity or previous filling, we will likely recommend a porcelain crown instead.

Find Out If a Porcelain Crown or a Veneer Is Right for You

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we proudly use the latest dental materials for stunningly lifelike crowns and veneers. We always provide detailed and honest treatment recommendations that are in your best interests. To learn more about our cosmetic and restorative options, contact us online or call (02) 6653-1788. We proudly serve patients in Coffs Harbor and Woolgoolga. 

 

Jan 17
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Healthy woman exercising

4 Ways a Dental Checkup Could Save Your Overall Health

By Dental Checkup No Comments

You know that it is important to schedule a regular dental checkup if you want to enjoy a bright and healthy smile. But did you know that routine checkups could also help to prevent major health issues? At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team is extremely thorough. During each six-month visit, your dentist or hygienist will evaluate your teeth and your soft tissues to look for signs of damage or inflammation. Using advanced technology, such as Orthopantomogram (OPG) x-rays, we can obtain a view of your entire mouth and a comprehensive understanding of your oral – and even physical – health. 

1. Catching Gum Disease Early Could Prevent Heart Disease

Periodontitis is a common inflammatory condition, with moderate to severe disease affecting an estimated 22.9% of Australian adults. Alarmingly, there is also a strong link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, meaning a large portion of the population could have a higher risk for heart attack and stroke. Scientists are still researching the connection between the two conditions. However, many believe that bacteria in the gums will eventually travel through the bloodstream to the heart. 

Each dental checkup also includes a check of your soft tissues. Your dentist or hygienist will look for any signs of gum inflammation or recession. If you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, timely treatment will certainly help to prevent widespread dental damage, and it may help to ward off life-threatening cardiovascular events, as well. 

2. Poor Oral Health Has Been Linked to Respiratory Disease

Cavities and periodontitis may also lead to respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia. These concerns can also worsen existing lung conditions, including asthma and COPD. In part, this is because you may inhale oral bacteria into your lungs. Furthermore, periodontal disease is a chronic type of inflammation, which can strain your immune system, making you more susceptible to other illnesses. 

3. A Dental Checkup Includes an Oral Cancer Screening 

Routine visits to our office also include oral cancer screenings, using our state-of-the-art VELscope® laser. Often, oral cancer causes visible swelling or white or red patches in the mouth. In the very earliest stages, however, these signs are often invisible, which is why oral cancer often goes undiagnosed until it has spread to other parts of the body. The VELscope laser may enable your practitioner to see soft tissue abnormalities that would otherwise go undetected. When oral cancer has not spread to other parts of the body, the survival rate is between 94 and 62%.

 

4. A Dental Checkup Can Make for a Healthier Pregnancy

If you are expecting a baby, you may wonder whether you should still visit the dentist. In fact, checkups, as well as cleans, are more essential than ever! When you are pregnant, you are at a greater risk for developing gum disease, and in turn, this can increase your risk for premature birth. Furthermore, when women have untreated cavities during pregnancy, their children are at a greater risk of developing cavities later in life. Though you should not have x-rays during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, dental checkups are not only permitted; they are essential.

Schedule Your Dental Checkup Today

Take steps to protect your smile and lifelong wellness. Schedule a dental checkup at our Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbor offices today. You can reach us online or call us at (02) 6653-1788.

Jan 14
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Child brushing her teeth

How to Make Children’s Dentistry Fun for Your Little One

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Dental visits are not just for adults; children’s dentistry, particularly preventative exams and cleans, can set the stage for lifelong oral health. As a parent, however, you know that trips to the dentist can be scary for young kids. It’s a new experience, and the unfamiliar sights and sounds can leave them feeling vulnerable. Fortunately, the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre has lots of experience treating young patients. With our compassion and sense of humor, we can help them feel comfortable. Plus, there are steps you can take as a family to make your child’s dental visit a pleasant and easy experience. 

1. Practice Good Dental Hygiene at Home

When kids aren’t used to dental treatment in any capacity, a visit to the dentist’s office will be very alarming. More importantly, good dental care at home can prevent serious damage to both baby and permanent adult teeth. Alarmingly, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that between 2012 and 2014, approximately 42% of children had developed cavities in their baby teeth!

Regular brushing and flossing is the best way to prevent decay. When babies first start teething, parents should wipe the teeth with a soft cloth or baby toothbrush. After 18 months, parents should begin using small amounts of fluoride toothpaste.

2. Visit the Dentist from a Young Age

Kids also should visit the dentist early on. Not only will this ensure optimal dental health. It will also make office visits a normal and expected occasion. We recommend that children see us when their first tooth comes in or when they reach age one.  

3. Talk about What to Expect

Before coming to our office, be sure to talk to your child about what they can expect. If you have been in the habit of regular brushing, you can explain that a dental clean is a lot like what they already do at home. Be sure to set a good example for your child. Let them know that, just like they have to visit the dentist, mom and dad have regular dental cleans, too!

4. Read Books about the Dentist

Books about the dentist can normalize the whole process! When children can identify with their favorite storybook heroes, the whole visit can seem like a grand adventure. Some good books include: 

  • Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip 
  • Going to the Dentist by Anne Civardi
  • Does a Tiger Go to the Dentist? by Harriet Ziefert 
  • The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan and Jan Berenstain

5. Choose the Right Practice for Children’s Dentistry

Of course, the best way to make dental visits easy for both you and your child is to choose the right pediatric dentist. Make sure you select someone who has experience working with kids and knows how to make the process fun for them. You should also find a practice that can provide a wide range of pediatric services. While exams and cleans are important, you also want to establish a relationship with a doctor who can provide more advanced procedures should they become necessary. 

Book a Children’s Dentistry Visit Today

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we love working with kids! Our gentle demeanor, smiles, and jokes make the experience fun for little ones. We serve families and patients of all ages in Coffs Harbor and Woolgoolga. To book an appointment with a member of our team contact us online or give us a call at (02) 6654-0650.

Jan 10
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A person clutches their jaws to indicate the presence of a TMD

Woolgoolga Emergency Dentist Explains the Main Causes of a Toothache

By Emergency Dentist No Comments

Whether it comes on suddenly or gradually increases in severity, a toothache can cause major discomfort. Emergency dentist Dr. Arpit Pathak, along with his team, sees patients with toothaches that develop for a variety of reasons. Treatments vary depending on the origin of the discomfort and any damage that may have occurred to the dental structure. Although our main goal is to prevent toothaches through dental cleans and other preventative services, when patients are already experiencing discomfort, we provide urgent care as soon as possible.

1. A Cavity

Tooth decay is the most common reason for a toothache. In fact, according to one study conducted by the Australian Research Centre for Population Oral Health (ARCPOH), over 30% of Australian adults suffer from untreated dental decay.

Cavities develop when plaque accumulates and erodes the outer enamel, creating tiny cracks and holes. In this initial phase, the damage will typically be undetectable, except to a trained eye. As the damage progresses, the plaque will work its way into the softer dentin below the enamel and eventually into the inner pulp of the tooth. At this point, the nerve can become irritated and inflamed, causing a toothache.

To treat a cavity, an emergency dentist will most commonly place a dental filling. Composite fillings match the natural color of teeth, and patients can receive them in one office visit.

2. A Dental Abscess

Untreated decay may lead to a dental abscess, or infected tooth. When this occurs, a small infected pocket will appear at the end of the dental root. It is important to have this condition treated as soon as possible, since infection can spread to the gums and even the jawbone. Abscesses can also develop due to untreated gum disease and may affect the gums only or both the gums and the tooth.

A toothache due to a dental abscess can be quite severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Sharp, shooting pain
  • Pain that spreads to the jawbone or ears
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold
  • Bad breath
  • A bad taste in the mouth
  • Swollen gums
  • A loose tooth

If the infection is located in the tooth itself, rather than the gums, an emergency dentist will typically recommend root canal therapy. The doctor will clean out the infected tissue, administer needed medication to remove any remaining bacteria, and place a dental crown. Root canal treatment allows many patients to retain even acutely damaged teeth.

3. A Broken or Cracked Tooth

Biting down on something hard or getting hit in the mouth can cause a tooth to break. Studies show that adults over age 40 are the most likely to experienced damaged teeth and that lower molars are the most frequently broken teeth.

An emergency dentist will provide various treatments, based on the extent and type of damage. If it is only a small chip, dental bonding may be enough to fill in the space and prevent additional harm. Larger cracks will typically require a dental crown, which will cover up the tooth, keep the crack from growing any larger, and restore tooth functionality. If the crack has reached all the way to the root, root canal therapy may be necessary.

4. A Loose or Damaged Existing Filling

A filling may come out or loosen for several reasons. Additional tooth decay around the restoration can weaken a filling. Tooth grinding or trauma, such as a blow or biting down on something hard, can also damage a filling, just like it can natural dental tissue. Finally, an old filling may simply be too compromised to protect a tooth. If a filling does come out, is important to seek treatment as soon as possible since there is now an entryway for bacteria.

Most frequently, a dentist will simply replace a loose or missing filling. In some cases, if new decay has damaged a tooth, root canal therapy or a dental crown may be required.

Receive Outstanding Urgent Care from a Woolgoolga Emergency Dentist

If you are experiencing a toothache or any other type of dental emergency, contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. We will schedule you for an appointment as soon as possible, and we can guide you in minimizing your discomfort while you are still at home. We proudly serve patients in Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbor, and the surrounding areas. You can call us at (02) 5645 6376 or send a message online.