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Oral Health

May 07
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Dentists in Woolgoolga Discuss Oral Health and Eating Disorders 

By Oral Health No Comments

Eating disorders are a serious and growing problem, especially among Australian youth. Those who struggle with eating disorders may suffer from an array of related health concerns. One area that is often overlooked is the effects of eating disorders on oral health. But, as your dentists in Woolgoolga know, dental wellness can be a pivotal factor in treating – and even diagnosing – eating disorders. 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, Dr. Arpit Pathak and his colleagues offer compassionate care to patients of all ages. They understand that eating disorders are a devastating burden, both for those who suffer from them and for their loved ones. They can perform appropriate treatment for any dental damage that may have already occurred. They can also work with your health care team to provide comprehensive care. 

Contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre to learn more. 

Eating Disorders: What You Should Know

Approximately 1 million Australians (or 4.5% of the population) are currently suffering from an eating disorder. And 10.5% of the population will or already have experienced an eating disorder in their lifetime. Sadly, these disorders often go undiagnosed. 

There are several forms of eating disorders. The most common include: 

  • Anorexia nervosa: Severe restriction of calories to control weight. 
  • Binge eating disorder: Eating large quantities of food in a short time, often alone and accompanied by intense feelings of guilt or shame.
  • Bulimia nervosa: Periods of binge eating followed by purging via deliberate vomiting, laxative use, restrictive eating, or excessive exercise. 

How Eating Disorders Manifest Themselves in the Mouth 

Bulimia may perhaps have the most noticeable effect on dental health, particularly if a patient induces vomiting. Frequent vomiting can lead to enamel erosion, especially on the back of the top front teeth. These teeth will then be more sensitive and susceptible to decay. Vomiting can also lead to a chronic sore throat and small sores on the soft oral tissues. 

Binge eaters often consume large quantities of sugar or starches at a time. This can greatly increase their risk for tooth decay and gum disease. 

Individuals who struggle with anorexia may suffer from severe malnutrition. Insufficient calcium and iron can weaken teeth, increasing the risk for dental damage and cavities. Without enough Vitamin D, patients often have weaker immune systems and are more at risk for gum disease. 

The Role of Dentists in Addressing Eating Disorders

Dentists can sometimes play a key role in diagnosing eating disorders, especially bulimia. They are often the only ones in a position to observe telltale enamel erosion. And they may be able to recognize unusual dental damage and signs of weakened teeth.

While dentists in Woolgoolga obviously cannot treat eating disorders, they can alert patients’ families to their suspicions and encourage them to seek treatment. They can also provide important treatment to combat dental damage. Services could include fluoride treatments to strengthen dental enamel, crowns to restore cracked teeth, and periodontal care to address gum disease. 

Contact Your Dentists in Woolgoolga 

If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder, routine dental care is all the more important. Schedule an appointment with our dentists in Woolgoolga today. 

Reach us online or call us at (02) 6654-0650.

Apr 02
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Mugs of tea

Dentist in Woolgoolga Explains How Your Favorite Beverages Affect Your Smile

By Oral Health No Comments

When it comes to a healthy diet, it’s not just about what you eat. What you drink can play a big part in your wellbeing, too. And both food and drink can impact your oral health, as well as your physical health. Your dentist in Woolgoolga is committed to your healthy smile and to educating you about the best ways to care for your teeth. 

Read on to learn more about how some of the most popular drinks can impact your mouth. Of course, though you might be inspired to make a few changes, it is still important to maintain your routine dental care at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. 

Contact your dentist in Woolgoolga to schedule a dental checkup and clean.

Coffee

Thanks to its dark color, coffee is one of the most notorious causes of dental staining. To minimize the effects on your teeth, finish your coffee at a set time, rather than drinking it throughout the day. Be sure to brush your teeth 30 minutes after you are done.

And, if your coffee habit is a hard one to kick, your dentist in Woolgoolga can provide teeth whitening to reduce coffee stains.

Tea

Tea has been shown to have many oral health benefits. Green tea specifically is rich in antioxidants and can help fight cancer. And it may limit the growth of the oral bacteria that lead to gum disease. 

Both black and green tea contain fluoride, a mineral that combats tooth decay. When you make your tea with fluoridated water, you will get even more of these benefits.

Juice

Juice can be great – but be careful about what type of juice you buy! According to a survey from the American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 100% fruit juice does not increase the risk of tooth decay in children. Unfortunately, many products labeled “juice” are actually concentrates and contain sugar, corn syrup, or other additives.

Milk

Milk is rich in calcium, a nutrient essential for strong bones and teeth. Dairy products also contain casein proteins, which may help to prevent tooth decay by forming a protective coating on teeth.

But even with these benefits, you should never put your child to bed with a bottle. And be sure that he or she brushes her teeth after drinking milk.

Soft Drinks

Soft drinks are high in pure sugar. Plus, both regular and diet soft drinks are very acidic, which can wear down enamel. Once the more porous enamel is exposed, you face a much higher risk for decay and discoloration. 

Water

Looking for a drink with zero negative consequences for your smile? Water is the way to go! Water helps to wash away bits of food, sugars, and stain-producing molecules. It keeps your mouth moist to eliminate bad odors. And when you drink fluoridated water, it can help to combat tooth decay. 

In fact, if you choose to enjoy any of the other drinks listed above, drinking water simultaneously can help to counteract their negative effects. 

Contact a Dentist in Woolgoolga for More Oral Health Tips 

Your dentist in Woolgoolga can offer more tips for improved oral health. Our preventive services can also help to combat tooth decay and staining. 

Contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre online or call our Woolgoolga location at (02) 6654-0650. We also have locations in Coffs Harbour.

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

Dentists in Coffs Harbour Review Advancements in Dental Technology

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

 

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

 

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

Digital Oral Impressions

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Digital X-Rays

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

 

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

 

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

Soft Tissue Lasers

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

 

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

Schedule an Appointment with Our Dentists in Coffs Harbour

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

 

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

 

Aug 24
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Dentists in Coffs Harbour Explain Teething and What New Parents Should Expect

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New parenthood is a wild ride, and few words instill as much trepidation as “teething.” But what exactly should you expect? Our dentists in Coffs Harbour understand your concern about your child’s oral health. We want to guide you through this important stage of growing up, helping both you and your baby to feel more comfortable. 

Most importantly, at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we want your baby to enjoy a healthy smile for life. When it is time for his or her first visit, we will conduct a gentle, thorough cleaning and provide tips for good oral hygiene at home. 

Whether you have questions about teething or you want to schedule an appointment for your child, contact our office today.

When does a baby start teething? 

On average, a baby will get his or her first tooth around the age of 6 months. However, this can vary greatly from child to child. Some babies will begin teething as early as 4 months, while others may not start until closer to a year. 

How long does it take for baby teeth to come in?

Every child has 20 baby teeth, which should all erupt by the time he or she is about three years old. 

It usually takes about 8 days for each tooth to come in fully – 4 days before the tooth appears and 3 days afterwards. During this time, teething symptoms will be most pronounced.

What are the symptoms of teething? 

Teething tends to cause certain common symptoms. Unfortunately, a large percentage of parents ascribe serious, non-related symptoms to teething. Common signs of teething include:

  • Red, sore gums
  • Rubbing ears
  • Flushed cheeks
  • Dribbling and chewing on things more than usual
  • Fussiness
  • Interrupted sleep
  • A low temperature of less than 38 degrees

If your child has a higher temperature, diarrhoea, or other problems, you should contact your pediatrician. 

How can I ease my child’s discomfort? 

Aside from extra snuggles, there are several ways to help reduce teething symptoms. These include:

  • Chilled teethers (Do not freeze them, as this can make them too hard.)
  • Gentle gum massages, using your fingers or a damp cloth
  • Children’s paracetamol (Be sure to check with your doctor about the proper dosage.)

Note that the ACCC has issued a warning against amber teething necklaces, as they can pose a choking hazard. 

How do I care for my baby’s new teeth?

Begin brushing as soon as your baby’s first tooth appears. Use a small, soft-bristled brush. The Australian Dental Association advises parents to use only water for the first months. Do not introduce toothpaste until your child is 18 months old. 

As soon as your child has two adjacent teeth, you should begin flossing. 

When should my baby visit the dentist?

Schedule your child’s first dental visit when the first tooth comes in. Even if he or she does not have any teeth, you should make an appointment by their first birthday.

Schedule an Appointment with Compassionate Dentists in Coffs Harbour

Contact our practice today to make an appointment. We are also happy to answer any teething questions you may have or discuss eligibility for the Child Dental Benefits Scheme.

Jul 28
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5 Things to Look for When Searching for Dentists in New South Wales, Australia

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You know that visiting the dentist is a key component of your oral health. But, with nearly 0 practitioners in the area, finding the right dentist can be a challenge. Whether you just moved, or you are simply looking to change dental offices, there are several things to keep in mind as you consider your options. 

When researching dentists in New South Wales, Australia, consider personal recommendations and online reviews. Think about your own particular needs and oral health goals. Most importantly, choose a practice where you feel relaxed and at home. 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we are proud to be a trusted dental home for patients across New South Wales. Contact us to learn more about our services and to find out if we are the right practice for you.

1. Someone who can treat the whole family

Dental care is not only important for adults. 25% of children aged 5 to 10 have untreated cavities in their baby teeth.

Look for a dentist who can treat you and your children in the same place. At Magic Smiles, we can often book you and your kids for back-to-back visits for truly convenient care.

2. A practice that performs comprehensive services

Preventive exams and cleanings are essential components of dentistry. However, should problems arise, you want to have a dentist on call who can treat a wide range of issues. 

At Magic Smiles, we can provide full restorative and cosmetic services, including: 

  • Crowns and bridges
  • Fillings
  • Dentures
  • Dental implants
  • Orthodontics
  • Root canal therapy
  • Dental bonding
  • Teeth whitening 
  • Tooth contouring 
  • Gum contouring

Plus, we see both new and existing patients for timely emergency treatment, minimizing dental damage and discomfort as quickly as possible. 

3. A practice with specialists in house

Even if you love your regular physician, you wouldn’t go to him for brain surgery. Why should it be any different for your oral health? For certain treatments, you want the expertise that only a specialist can provide. 

At Magic Smiles, we have three specialists permanently on staff. 

  • An orthodontist
  • A prosthodontist
  • An oral and maxillofacial surgeon

4. An office that offers sedation

If you fear going to the dentist, you are not alone – approximately 1 in 6 adults suffer from dental anxiety. When going to the dentist sets your heart racing, it’s important to find an understanding practitioner who will do everything possible to put you at ease. 

We go above and beyond, offering several forms of sedation. You can choose from inhaled sedation (either nitrous oxide or Penthrox). Or if you have more severe anxiety, oral sedation is also an option. 

5. Friendly dentists who make you feel at home

When searching for a dentist, the most important consideration is that you feel comfortable and relaxed at the practice you choose. 

At Magic Smiles, we have a warm, welcoming environment. We work hard to keep our schedule efficient and on time, but you will never feel rushed during treatment. Most importantly, our gentle, compassionate hands will ensure a pleasant and stress-free experience.

Contact Us for Outstanding Dentists in New South Wales, Australia 

If you want to enjoy top-notch dental care, make Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre your first stop. 

Contact our office online to schedule an appointment for yourself or your whole family. 

 

Jul 20
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An x-ray image displaying unerupted wisdom teeth

“Do I really need my wisdom teeth removed?” and Other Third-molar FAQS

By Oral Health No Comments

The human mouth typically contains eight molars to help us grind our food before swallowing. However, a third set of molars–known as wisdom teeth–can erupt, causing more harm than good. In order to protect your oral health, a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon may need to remove them.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team of dedicated specialists can help you remove pesky wisdom teeth. If you or a loved one needs a wisdom tooth extraction, then contact our team now. Patients can schedule a consultation at one of our locations in Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbour, NSW, by requesting it online here.

Not sure if you really need a wisdom tooth extraction? No problem! Our team is here to answer commonly asked questions about third molars.

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are an auxiliary set of molars that our ancestors once relied upon to help them mash hard-to-digest foods. Humans today, however, have a significantly different diet compared to our ancestors. As a result, the medical and dental community widely regards these teeth as vestigial–or residual–structures that serve little purpose today.

When do third molars erupt?

Unlike other teeth, third molars typically erupt later in a patient’s life. In fact, research suggests that most wisdom teeth erupt around 17 to 26 years of age. However, it’s not uncommon for patients younger than 17 and older than 26 to develop third molars.

What are some signs that my third molars are impacted?

There are several signs that your third molars might be impacted, such as:

  • Persistent bad breath
  • Swollen and bloody gums
  • Swelling and pain around the jaw
  • Difficulty speaking or yawning

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then contact our team at Magic Smiles as soon as possible. The sooner we remove impacted third molars, the happier and healthier your mouth will be!

Do I really need my wisdom teeth removed?

In some cases, no. Some patients develop wisdom teeth without any issues, while others never develop them at all. However, the majority of patients who do have third molars will need them removed to prevent numerous complications, such as:

  • Impacted teeth
  • Overcrowded teeth
  • Dental infections
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Jaw pain
  • Headaches

What happens if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth?

It depends. If you have wisdom teeth, but you don’t experience any pain or issues with them, then your oral health may remain the same without removing them. However, if you do experience pain and issues with your third molars, then failure to remove them can have devastating results, including:

  • Prolonged pain
  • Dental shifting that can negatively affect your bite alignment
  • Infections that spread to the gum tissue, jawbone, or blood

Patients should have bothersome third molars removed as soon as possible to prevent long-term damage and adverse effects.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Nearly five million people require third molar extractions every year. Are you one of them? Contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today to find out!

Click here to schedule your appointment now. 

Apr 29
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dental hygienist identifies bleeding gums in patient

Why are my gums bleeding, and how can I stop it?

By Oral Health No Comments

There’s a chance that every adult might suffer from some degree of bleeding gums at some point in their lifetime. Although a small amount of blood in the mouth may not bother you, bleeding gums should not be ignored.

If you notice that your gums are bleeding, we suggest visiting a Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre location as soon as possible. Our experienced dental team diagnoses the root cause of bleeding gums and appropriately treats the condition.

There are many reasons why you could have bleeding gums. Some reasons are related to your oral health. Other times, bleeding gums can be the warning sign of a potentially even more significant problem. Here, we go over six reasons your gums may be bleeding and how to stop it.

1. You’re using an incorrect brushing technique.

When it comes to brushing your teeth, easy does it. Brushing your teeth too hard can damage your enamel and may cause discomfort, your gums to bleed, and your toothbrush bristles to fray. Likewise, the Australian Dental Association recommends gently brushing your teeth with a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles twice a day.

2. You’re new to routine flossing.

Don’t panic or give up! If you’ve just started flossing, some bleeding is normal. Thankfully, this symptom should go away in about a week as you master your flossing craft. If the bleeding persists after a week, speak with your dentist.

3. You’re deficient in vitamins and minerals.

A balanced diet full of vitamins and minerals can help your body perform at its peak. However, deficiencies can hinder your oral and overall health. Specifically, deficiencies in the following substances can lead to poor gum health:

  • Vitamin C helps our cells heal. So, a long-term vitamin C shortage might lead to inflamed gums that bleed easily.
  • Vitamin K has healthy blood clotting properties, so lacking this vitamin can hinder your body’s ability to prevent excessive bleeding in case of injury.
  • Iron helps the body produce healthy blood cells and maintain high-functioning blood vessels.

4. Your dental restorations are not fitting correctly.

Do you have any prior dental work? If so, make sure that your crown, denture, or other dental restoration fits properly. If a restoration slips out of place, it may cut the gum tissue.

5. You’re experiencing hormonal changes.

The hormonal imbalances during puberty and pregnancy can increase blood flow to the gums and affect your overall gum health. Thus, increasing the threat of developing gum disease.

6. You have gum disease.

Gum disease starts as an infection in the gingival tissue that has the potential to develop into something much more severe (periodontitis). Although largely preventable via regular dental visits, experts estimate that 3 in every 10 Australian adults have moderate to severe periodontitis. One of the earliest signs of gum disease is bleeding, and your dentist might even be able to reverse it if it’s caught in time!

Discover the Your Bleeding Gums Cause

Your first line of defense against bleeding gums should always be a trip to your dentist. If you noticed that your gums are bleeding, inflamed, or otherwise irritated, type “dentist near me” in your favorite search engine and schedule a check-up with a trusted dentist in your area.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team will thoroughly examine the state of your teeth and gums. Your dentist may recommend additional treatment or a visit with your primary care doctor if they suspect a systemic health issue. Early intervention is key to protecting your health, so reach out to our team by calling (02) 6654-0650 or messaging us online as soon as you can.

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:

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.