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:

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.