Category

Dental Checkup

Apr 04
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magnifying glass over woman's teeth after dental cleanings

7 Factors Influencing the Frequency of Dental Cleanings

By Dental Checkup No Comments

Healthy smiles require more than just daily flossing and brushing – our pearly whites also need regular dental visits for professional dental cleanings. But how often should you schedule these cleanings? 

As a general rule, Australian health authorities recommend dental cleanings and exams every six months. So, don’t wait – call Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre in Coffs Harbor, NSW, at (02) 6652-3242 or our Woolgoolga, NSW, office at (02) 6654-0650 now.

The frequency of dental cleanings is subject to change based on several factors. Today, our team delves into the key considerations that influence how often you should visit your dentist for a cleaning.

Overall Oral Health

The state of your oral health plays a significant role in determining the frequency of dental cleanings. If you have excellent oral hygiene habits and minimal dental issues, our team may recommend cleanings every six months. 

However, if you have certain conditions (such as gum disease or a history of cavities), more frequent cleanings may be necessary to maintain optimal oral health.

Gum Health

Individuals with gum disease or a predisposition to gum issues may require cleanings more frequently to prevent the progression of the disease and keep their gums healthy.

Plaque and Tartar Build-Up 

Plaque is a gummy, tacky film of food debris and bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. When plaque hardens into tartar (sometimes called calculus), it cannot be scrubbed off with regular brushing and flossing alone.

Regular dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar development, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. 

If you have a higher propensity for plaque and tartar accumulation, our team may recommend more frequent cleanings.

Smoking and Tobacco Use

Smokers have a significantly higher chance of developing gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. 

Due to these increased risks, tobacco users may need more frequent dental cleanings to maintain their oral health.

Medical Conditions 

Certain medical conditions (such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and HIV/AIDS) can negatively affect the immune system and increase susceptibility to oral infections.

If you have any of these conditions, talk to our team. We may recommend more frequent dental cleanings to manage your oral and overall health effectively.

Age 

As we age, our oral health needs tend to change. Older adults may experience issues such as receding gums, dry mouth, and tooth sensitivity, which can affect oral hygiene and increase the risk of dental problems. 

Consequently, older individuals may benefit from more frequent dental cleanings to address these specific concerns and maintain their oral health.

Diet and Nutrition 

Your diet and nutrition habits also contribute to your oral health. For example, over-indulging in sweet and acidic treats and drinks can cause tooth decay and enamel erosion, necessitating more frequent cleanings to prevent dental problems. 

Additionally, a diet lacking in essential vitamins and minerals can weaken teeth and gums, leaving them vulnerable to decay and disease.

Professional Dental Cleanings in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, NSW

By discussing these factors with the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, you can establish a personalized dental cleaning schedule to keep your smile healthy and vibrant for years to come. Call our team in Woolgoolga, NSW, at (02) 6654-0650 or our team in Coffs Harbour, NSW, at (02) 6652-3242 to schedule your cleaning, or request an appointment here.

Feb 27
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Close-up of a lipsticked mouth with white teeth and red gums enjoying a piece of chewing gum

Have red gums? Here’s what it could be.

By Dental Checkup No Comments

While redness in the gums can be normal in some cases, persistent redness can indicate an underlying problem. Indeed, red gums can indicate a range of dental and medical conditions. Routine checkups with a trusted dentist can help you pinpoint the cause of red, inflamed, or bloody gums.

 

Are you suddenly noticing darker gums accompanied by pain or sensitivity? If so, then it’s time to contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. We can help you locate the cause to get speedy and effective treatments. Simply contact one of our two locations in Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbour, NSW, to get started now!

 

Swollen and dark gums can be a medical mystery. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to narrow down the diagnosis. Here are some of the most common reasons why a patient might have red gums.

Red Gums Might be Gingivitis

One of the most common reasons for red gums is gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease (also called periodontitis) that occurs when tissue-destroying plaque builds up along the gum line. The bacteria in the plaque can cause inflammation, which can lead to noticeably dark, swollen, and bleeding gums. 

 

Fortunately, gingivitis is just the beginning stage of periodontitis. This means that, if caught early enough, patients can completely reverse gingivitis. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to advanced periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss.

Inflamed Gums Could be Advancing Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease. The infection (which starts out as mild gingivitis) spreads to the ligaments and bone that support the teeth. 

 

As a result, advancing periodontitis can present with:

  • Purple or dark red gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gum tissue
  • Bone loss in the jaw
  • Loose teeth
  • Prolonged tooth loss
  • Changes in bite patterns

If you suspect that you might have periodontitis, it’s important to see a dentist or periodontist right away. Leaving periodontitis untreated could lead to significant damage that may be more costly to repair.

Vitamin Deficiencies Can Cause Red Gums

A lack of certain vitamins (such as vitamin C or vitamin K) can cause red gums. Vitamin C is important for healthy gum tissue, and a deficiency can cause the gums to become:

  • Tender
  • Inflamed
  • Prone to bleeding

 

Vitamin K is necessary for blood clotting, so a deficiency can make healing much more difficult. And, when it comes to red gums, healing is key.

 

If vitamin deficiencies are the main cause of red gums, then we suggest taking a daily multivitamin. Adding supplements to your diet ensures that you are getting the recommended amount of essential nutrients every day.

Expectant Mothers May Develop Sore Gums

Research suggests that pregnancy can cause hormonal changes in the body that can lead to red gums. The hormone that is largely to blame is progesterone.

 

Elevated levels of progesterone can cause the gums to become more sensitive to plaque and bacteria, which can lead to inflammation and redness. Medical professionals refer to this as ‘pregnancy gingivitis,’ and it usually goes away shortly after delivery.

Investigate Red Gums with a General Dentist in NSW

These are just four common reasons why patients see dark, swollen gums. Other reasons may include allergic reactions, medications, and injury. If you’re experiencing swollen or painful gums, then contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre immediately. We can help you diagnose the cause and get rapid treatment.

Request your appointment now by submitting a secure message here.

Nov 17
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A person rests their chin on their hands and smiles widely to reveal the benefits of routine oral hygiene

Improve Your Routine Oral Hygiene with These Six Tips

By Dental Checkup No Comments

Routine oral hygiene includes activities like brushing and flossing. But, is simple brushing and flossing enough to keep your teeth and gums healthy and functional? Possibly, but there are a few things you can do (along with regular checkups) to take your oral hygiene to the next level.

 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we believe that exceptional oral health care starts with you. So, don’t be shy–contact our team in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, NSW, today. Simply send us a brief message here to get started!

 

In this post, we give you six tips on how you can improve your routine oral hygiene. Because even tiny changes can add up to major improvements in your oral and overall health!

1. Use a Soft-bristled Toothbrush

Did you know that the bristles on toothbrushes come in different stiffnesses, like soft, medium, and hard? Many patients assume that the stiffer the bristles are, the better clean they will get. But, that simply isn’t true.

 

Hard-bristled and soft-bristled toothbrushes both clean teeth equally well. The key difference? Hard bristles can rub away the protective layer on our teeth (tooth enamel) at an alarming rate, but soft bristles do not.

 

So, ditch the hard-bristled brush. Save your tooth enamel and prevent cavities with soft-bristled toothbrushes instead.

2. Don’t Rinse after Brushing

Today, many toothpastes contain remineralizing ingredients, such as fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite. These ingredients rebuild weakened tooth enamel and prevent cavities from forming on the teeth.

 

Research indicates that rinsing after brushing actively removes these essential ingredients from the mouth. As a result, remineralizing toothpastes cannot properly strengthen and protect teeth as intended. 

 

So, simply spit out the toothpaste, skip the rinse, and carry on. Leaving residual toothpaste in the mouth allows remineralizing ingredients to do their job better.

3. Brush or Scrape Your Tongue

Right now, billions upon billions of bacteria are living in our mouths, many of which are responsible for bad breath. These bad-breath microbes create a sticky film in our mouths, which can be removed with gentle brushing. But, if you’re not brushing your tongue, then you may be leaving billions of odour-causing bacteria behind.

 

Following toothbrushing, you should brush or scrape your tongue. This helps to remove plaque, bacteria, and residual food debris on the tongue for fresher breath and a healthier smile.

4. Upgrade Your Dental Floss

There is no doubt about it–traditional string floss is a hassle. But, with recent upgrades to dental floss, patients have more accessible and comfortable ways to prioritize their periodontal health.

 

Here are just a few ways to floss in the 21st century:

  • A water flosser 
  • Interdental brushes
  • Floss picks (disposable or reusable!)

5. Eat and Drink Your Way to a Healthy Smile

Sugary and acidic foods and drinks are common cavity culprits. Therefore, establishing a dental-friendly diet is a great way to elevate your routine oral hygiene. 

 

So, drink plenty of fresh water, eat your fruits and veg, and add more probiotic foods (like yogurt and kimchi) to your menu for a healthier smile!

6. See a Dentist in NSW Every Six Months

Don’t let your routine oral hygiene practices go to waste. Maintain your oral health and hygiene by booking regular checkups and dental cleans with our dentists in New South Wales every six months. Request an appointment at Magic Smiles online now to schedule yours!

 

Nov 11
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A young woman sits on the floor and clutches her chest, indicating dentophobia before a dental appointment

Four Ways to Overcome Dentophobia

By Dental Checkup No Comments

Is a deep-seated fear of the dentist keeping you from getting yearly checkups and cleanings? You don’t have to go through it alone. The team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre is here to give you four ways to overcome dental anxiety (also called dentophobia).

Looking for gentle dentistry in Coffs Harbour or Woolgoolga, NSW? At Magic Smiles, we offer numerous services (like sedation dentistry) to make dental care more comfortable for you. Contact our team now to see how we can give you a more pleasant experience.

Meanwhile, let’s discuss four things you can do to make dental care less intimidating. Even simple solutions can add up to major differences in your care and comfort!

 

Calm Your Nerves with Breathing Exercises

We’ve all heard it before– “Just take a deep breath!” But, how beneficial is deep breathing on anxiety? It turns out that it could make a noticeable difference in soothing frayed nerves.

Research reveals that prolonging exhalation triggers the parasympathetic nervous system. Once triggered, the parasympathetic nervous system reduces the fight-or-flight response. As a result, feelings of fear and anxiety greatly diminish with deep, controlled breathing.

So, what’s the trick? Simply breathe in, and fully release all of the air from your lungs (exhaling for about five counts). Repeat this process for two to five minutes or until you feel more relaxed.

 

Distract Yourself with Your Favorites

For many patients, the sensations of a dental office can trigger their dentophobia. So, if the sound of drills or the smell of a sterile environment causes you to panic, then block out the surrounding environment with welcome distractions. 

Here are a few ways that you can keep yourself distracted and entertained during dental appointments:

  • Listen to your favorite music (and pump the volume up just a tad!)
  • Watch your favorite TV shows or movies (on our TVs or on your own device!)
  • Play with fidgets to keep energetic hands occupied
  • Place diluted essential oils (like calming lavender mixed with coconut oil) under the nose to promote calm 

 

Find Your Happy Place

It might sound a little silly, but visualization can be a powerful tool to combat dentophobia. Visualization is a mental exercise that encourages patients to reframe and redirect their thoughts. Experts believe that visualization is a form of meditation, which can help patients relax and find their ‘happy place,’ even in stressful situations.

 

Consider Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry may be the most effective way to overcome dentophobia. This nerve-soothing approach to gentle dentistry deters dental anxiety with the use of:

  • Oral conscious sedation
  • IV sedation
  • Nitrous oxide 
  • Local anesthesia
  • General anesthesia

 

Sedation dentistry is right for most patients. So, don’t hesitate to ask our team which sedation dentistry services might benefit you most at your next appointment!

 

Ask Us About Sedation Dentistry in New South Wales

Don’t let dentophobia keep you from getting exceptional dental care with our skilled dentists in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW. Contact the team at Magic Smiles online here to ask us about our available sedation dentistry services and other gentle treatments.

 

Oct 05
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woman needing dental cleanings and orthodontics

Dental Cleanings & Orthodontics: 3 Benefits

By Dental Checkup No Comments

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

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

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

Here are three benefits of dental cleanings during orthodontic treatment: 

1. Maintain Oral Health

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

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

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

2. Avoid Excess Plaque Buildup

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

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

3. Prevent Decalcification

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

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

Schedule Your Dental Cleaning

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

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

Sep 19
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5 Surprising Facts about Baby Teeth from Your Children’s Dentistry Provider

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Teething is a milestone for every baby and parent. Though it doesn’t seem possible, as your child’s gummy smile transforms into a toothy grin, he becomes cuter than ever before. Unfortunately, children’s dentistry is not discussed as frequently as other topics, like feeding and sleep. Many parents, for instance, are not aware that babies should have dental checkups as soon as their first teeth appear.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we proudly provide quality care for patients of all ages. 

Read on to learn some fascinating and little-known facts about baby teeth. Then contact us to schedule an appointment for your child.

1. Teeth Are One of the First Things to Grow in the Womb.

While the heartbeat is one of the first developments for an unborn baby, the growth of baby teeth is not far behind. Teeth begin forming as early as six week’s gestation. At this time, dental lamina form tooth buds, which will later grow into teeth. Around 3 to 4 months in utero, hard tissue begins to form. 

When a baby is born, she already has all 20 baby teeth below the gum line! 

2. Some Babies Are Born with Teeth.

In about 1 out of every 2,000 to 3,000 births, babies are born with teeth. These are called natal teeth and are most often normal teeth that have simply erupted early. They can, however, cause complications with nursing, and they may be weaker than teeth that develop on a more regular timeline. But sometimes they cause no complications whatsoever.

3. Some Babies Have Extra Teeth.

3.8% of the population is born with hyperdontia, a condition that causes extra teeth to develop. Many times, only a dental professional can diagnose hyperdontia in infants since the extra teeth tend to look normal and align with the rest of the teeth. Nonetheless, it is important to diagnose this condition, as it can cause problems with normal dental alignment and development.

4. Baby Teeth Are More Susceptible to Cavities Than Adult Teeth.

Enamel forms the outer layer of teeth and helps to prevent cavities. In babies, however, the enamel layer is thinner, meaning children are more prone to tooth decay than their parents! In fact, 42% of Australian children have experienced decay in their baby teeth.

5. Baby Teeth Play an Important Role in the Development of Adult Teeth.

Baby teeth act as placeholders for adult teeth. If your child loses teeth too early, they could suffer from pronounced misalignment later down the road. In addition, children who experience dental decay are more likely to develop cavities as adults. 

This is why early dental care is so vital. To prevent cavities, brush your little one’s teeth twice a day, and begin flossing as soon as she has two teeth that touch. You should also begin biannual dental checkups no later than age one, or whenever teeth start to come in, whichever comes first. 

Schedule an Appointment with a Children’s Dentistry Expert

To learn more about baby teeth and to protect your favorite little smile, contact our practice today.

Jun 05
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A Woolgoolga dentist works on a patient's mouth

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

By Dental Checkup No Comments

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

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

1. How can I avoid gum disease?

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

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

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

2. Am I using the right toothpaste and toothbrush?

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

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

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

3. Could my diet be affecting my oral health?

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

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

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

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

4. Am I grinding my teeth at night?

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

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

Schedule a dental checkup today!

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

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

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.

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.

Dec 05
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close up of mouth and dental mirror

Why are dental check-ups important? And other FAQs

By Dental Checkup No Comments

When a person wants to lose weight, she works with a dietician or physical trainer; when a person wants to improve their mental health, he works with a therapist or counselor; and when a person wants to have a healthy, beautiful smile, he works with a dentist.

Most dentists recommend patients visit the dentist at least every six months. However, some patients should visit even more often. The most obvious and important reason for these visits is to help patients gain and maintain optimum oral health. Dental check-ups help patients avoid the negative side-effects of cavities and gum disease. When patients attend these appointments regularly, dentists can track their oral health and interfere with any potential problems.

These appointments are important for patients of all ages, but especially children because dentists can help the child and parent lay the foundation for a healthy, beautiful smile throughout their lives.

Here are three more questions patients ask about dental check-ups:

1. What happens during a dental check-up?

Two things happen during a dental check-up: an oral health examination and a dental clean.

When a dentist performs an oral exam, he checks for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and any other signs of oral health problems. First, x-rays are taken of your teeth, jawbone, and jaw joints. Then, the dentist uses special tools to look more closely at the gums, teeth, and other structures in the mouth.

After completing the exam, a dental hygienist will perform a dental clean. This involves using scalers and ultrasonic instruments to remove plaque and tartar from between the teeth and along the gum line. Lastly, a special paste and rubber cup are used to polish the teeth by removing surface stains and dangerous biofilms.

Dental check-ups are the perfect time to ask your dentist questions about any issues you’ve had with your teeth, gums, or breath. Nothing is off-limits! Patients also often ask for recommendations on the best brands of toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash.

2. What if the dentist discovers a cavity or gum disease?

Minor issues like a small cavity or chip can be treated on the same day as your dental check-up. For more extensive issues like advanced gum disease or cavities, another appointment may be necessary.

If follow-up treatment is needed, be sure to talk to your dentist about all of your treatment options, payment options, and schedule a time that works well for your schedule.

3. What should I do between visits?

This is a question many patients ask during their dental check-ups. The great thing about asking in person is that you receive personalized advice. Here are the basic guidelines for at-home oral healthcare:

  • Brush twice a day—once in the morning, and once right before bed.
  • Floss every evening (after your last meal).
  • Eat healthily. Up your intake of whole foods and reduce the amount of sugar and processed foods you consume.
  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Patients who abide by these guidelines have a much better chance of maintaining a healthy mouth year-round!

Schedule Your Dental Check-Up Today

Don’t wait any longer to experience the benefits of a dental exam and cleaning. At Magic Smiles in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, our team of expert and compassionate dentists is prepared to help you achieve your best smile!

Contact one of our convenient locations today to schedule your appointment.