Category

Restorative Dentistry

Nov 21
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black woman holding her hands in a v-shape under her chin on yellow background

5 Ways Restorative Dentistry Protects Your Health Beyond Your Smile

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Restorative dentistry is known for fixing teeth and creating beautiful smiles, but its benefits go much deeper than just looks. By repairing, replacing, or strengthening damaged teeth, restorative dentistry can improve various aspects of your overall health. 

Is your smile in need of repair? Don’t wait until a larger issue arises – contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. You can reach us in Coffs Harbour, NSW, by dialling (02) 6652-3242 or in Woolgoolga, NSW, at (02) 6654-0650 for an appointment now.

From better digestion to clearer speech, here’s how restorative dentistry supports wellness across the board.

1. Boosts Digestion with Better Chewing

Chewing and saliva kickstart digestion, breaking down food before it reaches the stomach. When teeth are missing or damaged, chewing becomes less effective, which can lead to digestive issues. 

Restorative dentistry treatments like crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants ensure that each tooth is strong and functional, optimizing chewing and digestion. This support not only eases digestion but also allows the body to absorb nutrients more efficiently.

2. Enhances Speech and Communication

Missing or misaligned teeth can affect sound pronunciation, making speech less clear. Whether it’s through dental implants, crowns, or partial dentures, restorative dentistry can fill in the gaps and realign teeth, increasing speech clarity and confidence. 

This makes a huge difference in social and professional interactions, ensuring your words are understood without any unintended “whistles” or slurs.

3. Promotes Healthy Jaw Alignment and Reduces Pain

The jaw can compensate by shifting its position whenever teeth are missing or misaligned, which may lead to joint pain, headaches, and even TMJ disorder. 

Restorative dentistry helps align the bite properly by filling gaps or adjusting the height of teeth with crowns or bridges. This improved alignment relieves strain on the jaw muscles and can reduce or eliminate discomfort caused by poor jaw alignment.

4. Prevents Further Tooth and Bone Loss

Missing teeth can cause surrounding teeth to shift or loosen, creating a domino effect of tooth loss. This also leads to bone resorption in the jaw, which affects facial structure over time. 

Dental implants and bridges, two common restorative dentistry options, fill those gaps and stimulate the jawbone, preserving its density. By replacing missing teeth promptly, restorative dentistry helps prevent bone loss and keeps your facial structure intact.

5. Supports Heart Health by Reducing Infection

Unchecked oral infections can impact cardiovascular wellness. Researchers believe this is because bacteria from decayed or damaged teeth can enter the bloodstream, potentially contributing to heart issues. 

Root canals, fillings, and crowns are all effective restorative dentistry treatments that eliminate harmful bacteria and reduce infection risk. This lowers the risk of inflammation that could otherwise impact your heart health, making your mouth and heart happier in the long run.

Magic Smiles Dental & Implant Centre – Restore Your Smile, Restore Your Health

Restorative dentistry goes well beyond just beautifying your smile – it’s about creating a foundation for a healthier life overall. If your smile could use some extra love, reach out to the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. Our Woolgoogla, NSW, and Coffs Harbour, NSW, dentists are always here to help. Reach us online for information and appointments now!

Nov 14
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partial denture on white background

Partial Dentures vs. Dental Bridges: Which Is Right for You?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

If you’re missing one or more teeth, finding the right solution to restore your smile is essential for both comfort and confidence. Two common options in restorative dentistry are partial dentures and dental bridges. While both can fill gaps and bring back functionality, understanding the differences can help you choose what’s best for your needs.

Learn more about which option is right for you at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. Call us in Coffs Harbour, NSW, at (02) 6652-3242 or in Woolgoolga, NSW, at (02) 6654-0650 to get started.

While these restorations share some similarities, they also have distinct differences. Follow along as our team explains who can benefit most from partial dentures and who should stick to dental bridges.

Who Should Consider Partial Dentures?

Partial dentures are a removable dental solution. They effortlessly attach to surrounding teeth to replace one or more missing teeth. 

Dental professionals create these restorations from a mix of durable materials, like acrylic and metal. In most cases, partial dentures can restore comfort and function for five years or longer with good care.

Ideal candidates for partial dentures may include:

Patients with Multiple Missing Teeth

If you’re missing several teeth in various areas of your mouth, partial dentures may offer a practical solution. Since they can replace multiple teeth without needing each gap to be connected to a prepared neighboring tooth, they’re especially suitable for patients with several missing teeth in different locations.

Those Seeking a Removable Option

Patients who prefer a removable restoration for easier cleaning often find partial dentures appealing. If the idea of a fixed, permanent option doesn’t suit your lifestyle or comfort, a partial denture may provide the flexibility you’re looking for.

Budget-Conscious Patients

Partial dentures are usually more affordable than fixed options like dental bridges, making them a popular choice for patients seeking a cost-effective solution to replace missing teeth.

Who Should Consider Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are a permanent solution designed to close gaps left by one or more missing teeth in a straight line. They use the support of neighboring natural teeth or implants, providing a secure, long-lasting solution. 

Since bridges are not removable, many patients appreciate the natural feel and maintenance ease they offer. They also have a longer lifespan, with many patients enjoying their bridges for 15 years.

Ideal candidates for dental bridges may include:

Those with Strong Adjacent Teeth

If the teeth next to the missing tooth are healthy and strong, a dental bridge can work exceptionally well. These neighboring teeth act as anchors for the bridge, so this option is ideal for patients who have healthy, strong adjacent teeth.

Patients Seeking a Permanent Solution

For patients who want a fixed, long-term solution, dental bridges provide an option that doesn’t need to be removed. If you prefer not to worry about daily removal or cleaning beyond regular brushing and flossing, a dental bridge may be the right fit.

People with a Few Missing Teeth in a Row

Typically, our dentists recommend dental bridges when one or a few teeth in a row are missing. Since dental professionals design bridges to span gaps, they are ideal for patients missing one to three consecutive teeth.

Make the Right Choice at Magic Smiles Dental & Implant Centre

If you want a removable option or have multiple gaps across your mouth, partial dentures may suit your needs. However, if you prefer a more permanent solution and have healthy adjacent teeth, a dental bridge could be the best match. But you don’t have to make the choice alone.

Contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Center here to schedule a restorative dentistry consultation today. We’ll help you make the right choice for your needs, ensuring happy, healthy smiles for years to come!

Oct 04
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illustration of root canal on infected tooth

How Root Canals Save Your Teeth

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

When it comes to saving teeth, restorative dentistry and root canals are superheroes. While they often get a bad rap, root canals are one of the most effective ways to preserve your natural teeth and prevent more invasive procedures, like extractions.

Studies suggest over half of the global population has at least one root canal-treated tooth. Could you benefit from tooth-saving root canal treatment? Find out with the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. Call (02) 6654-0650 to reach our Woolgoolga, NSW, office, or dial (02) 6652-3242 to contact our Coffs Harbour, NSW, crew for an appointment now!

If you’ve ever wondered why root canals are such a big deal, or if you’re feeling nervous about the idea of needing one, don’t worry! We’re here to explain how this treatment works, why it’s important, and how it saves your teeth from being lost forever.

What Exactly Is a Root Canal?

Root canals are specially designed to treat teeth that are severely damaged, infected, or decayed deep within the root. The procedure involves cleaning out the infected or dead tissue inside a tooth, filling it, and sealing it up to protect the tooth from future infections. 

A root canal may sound intimidating, but it’s really just a way to stop tooth pain, eliminate infection, and preserve your natural tooth.

The Importance of Saving Your Natural Teeth

You might be wondering, “Why not just pull the tooth if it’s causing problems?” While extractions are sometimes necessary, saving your natural teeth with root canals has some big advantages. 

First, nothing feels, functions, or looks quite like your own teeth. Even the best replacement options, like dental implants or bridges, can’t fully replicate the real thing.

Secondly, keeping your natural teeth helps maintain your bite, making sure you can chew and speak comfortably. 

Lastly, root canals also prevent shifting in surrounding teeth, which can happen when a tooth is no longer available to offer support. 

So, if a dentist recommends a root canal, it’s because they’re focused on preserving what’s already yours – and that’s always the best option!

Root Canals vs. Extractions: Why Preservation Wins

Tooth extractions leave a gap that often requires a dental implant, bridge, or denture to fill. These replacement options can be costly and time-consuming, requiring multiple visits to the dentist. 

Meanwhile, dentists can usually complete a root canal in one or two visits, and the treatment allows you to keep your own teeth.

By choosing a root canal, you’re also avoiding bone loss in your jaw, which occurs rapidly after tooth loss. This bone resorption can cause facial changes over time, leading to a sunken appearance. 

Simply put, root canals help preserve your smile, your bite, and your face shape!

Tooth-Saving Root Canals in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW

When it comes to restorative dentistry, root canals play a vital role in keeping your natural teeth right where they belong – in your mouth! So, if you could use a root canal, contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. Click here to request a visit and get started toward a healthier, pain-free smile!

Aug 27
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3 stages of dental implant procedure

Dental Implants: A Timeline of What to Expect, Part 1

By Restorative Dentistry, Woolgoogla and Coffs Harbour Dentist No Comments

This is the first post of two regarding the dental implant timeline. The second installment will be published next week.

Are you considering dental implants to secure your dentures or replace missing teeth? Implants stand apart from other dental prosthetics due to their nature-mimicking structure. If you qualify for dental implants, expect outpatient surgery in our office and a total treatment time of eight months or longer. Knowing what to expect during and following the dental implant treatment process should bring you peace of mind, so let’s dive further into the topic.

In today’s blog, Dr. Arpit Pathak and the Magic Smiles team in Coffs Harbour will provide you with a timeline for implant placement and restoration. If you read this blog to the end, you should feel confident in your understanding of what to expect during your dental implant procedure. To learn more about dental prosthetics, call us today at (02) 6654-0650 or email [email protected].

Prepping for Dental Implants

Not every patient is right for dental implants. For instance, the procedure is best for people over 18 years of age. If you have poor bone density in your jawbone, you may need a bone graft prior to implant placement. Additionally, some medications, health conditions, and oral health concerns may disqualify you for implants. Smoking, pregnancy, and bruxism can also prevent your candidacy.

Your First Visit

At the first appointment for dental implants, a Magic Smiles dentist will thoroughly evaluate your oral health, teeth, and jawbone. We use orthopantomography to aid in custom treatment planning, and the dentist may recommend you have a CBCT (cone beam computerized tomography) at a local radiography center, as well. Digital images and the dentist’s findings from your exam factor into treatment planning.

Prerequisite Procedures

If you need periodontal therapy, tooth extractions, or a bone graft, we will work with you to accomplish the procedure. After treatment, once your mouth has healed, you might become eligible for dental implants. 

Implant Placement Surgery

Placing dental implants into the jaw takes about an hour or two per implant. You’ll be properly numbed and (in some cases) sedated before the procedure. The dentist will lift a flap of gum tissue back and insert a dental implant in each pre-determined, precise location for optimal stability. 

You’ll be back to work and fun fast! Over the next few months your bone tissue and gums will grow and integrate with the implant posts to create a solid foundation. Be sure to practice meticulous oral hygiene and follow the provided instructions for recovery. Some patients who received only one or two implants feel good enough to resume normal activities the day after surgery. Others, and those with more than two implants placed, may need a few days to recover so that swelling and bruising go down. 

Osseointegration and Healing

Expect to wait three to six months (longer in some cases) for your jawbone to fully integrate with the implant posts. During this time, you may wear a temporary prosthetic. Practice excellent oral hygiene and follow all instructions provided by our office. If you have questions, just give us a call. 

In next week’s blog, you’ll learn about abutment placement, crown placement or denture fitting, recovery instructions, and ongoing care for dental implants. 

Call Coffs Harbour Dentist Magic Smiles Today

Located in Coffs Harbour on Pacific Highway, our dental office caters to patients of all ages. We provide contemporary technology and treatments while paying close attention to patient comfort. Call (02) 6652-3242 or email coffs@ magicsmiles.com.au to schedule your dental implant consultation today, and learn whether you’re a good candidate for this life-changing procedure. 

Aug 13
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3D illustration of how dental crowns are placed on the teeth.

Exploring Smile Restorations: Dental Crowns, Fillings, and Bridges

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

When it comes to restoring your smile, restorative dentistry at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre offers a variety of solutions that cater to different needs, including dental crowns, fillings, and bridges.

Whether you’re dealing with a chipped tooth, a cavity, or a missing tooth, there’s a treatment designed to bring back your smile’s brilliance. Talk to our Woolgoolga, NSW, team at (02) 6654-0650 or consult with our Coffs Harbour, NSW, crew at (02) 6652-3242 to learn more about your options. 

In today’s blog, our team explores three popular options to mend your smile: dental crowns, fillings, and bridges. By understanding the differences among these restorations, you’ll be better equipped to choose the one that’s just right for you.

Dental Crowns: The Royal Treatment for Your Teeth

If your tooth has suffered extensive damage – whether from decay, a fracture, or a large filling that’s weakened over time – a dental crown is often the best option. 

Think of a dental crown as a protective cap that covers the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, dental crowns are designed with durability and aesthetics in mind.

One of the biggest advantages of dental crowns is their versatility and longevity, with many patients enjoying their restorations for decades. So, if you’re looking for a long-lasting solution that offers comprehensive protection, dental crowns are a great choice.

Fillings: Small But Mighty

While dental crowns are ideal for more extensive damage, fillings are the go-to solution for smaller issues, like chips and cavities. 

Fillings are a quick and straightforward solution, often completed in just one visit to the dentist. And with materials like composite resin and metal, you can feel confident that your fillings will last for years.

If decay or damage has created a small hole in your tooth, a filling can repair the problem and prevent it from getting worse. That’s right – these small but mighty restorations may be all you need to keep your tooth in top shape.

Bridges: Closing the Gap

Finally, let’s explore dental bridges, which are designed to replace a single tooth or even multiple missing teeth. A bridge consists of dental crowns supported by the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (or teeth) in between. This restoration not only fills the space left by a missing tooth but also helps maintain the alignment of your remaining teeth.

Bridges are a great option if you have healthy teeth on either side of the gap and want a fixed, non-removable solution. They’re durable, natural-looking, and can help restore both function and appearance to your smile.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between dental crowns, fillings, and bridges depends on the specific needs of your teeth. If you’re dealing with extensive damage, dental crowns offer comprehensive protection. For smaller cavities, fillings are quick and effective. And if you’re missing a tooth or two, bridges can help restore your smile’s function and beauty.

Keep Smiling with Restorative Dentistry in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, NSW

Whatever your dental needs, there’s a restorative dentistry solution that’s right for you at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. Send our dentists in Coffs Harbour or Woolgoolga, NSW, a message here to learn more about which option best suits your smile.

Jul 30
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repairing a Broken tooth

Top 6 Ways to Fix a Broken Tooth

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Ah, the dreaded broken tooth! Whether it’s from an unfortunate mishap while munching on snacks or an ill-fated accident, a broken tooth can be a real pain—literally and figuratively. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get that tooth back in tip-top shape with restorative dentistry treatments at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre.

With two lovely locations in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW, the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre can repair dental damage in no time. So, give our Woolgoolga team a ring at (02) 6654-0650 or dial our Coffs Harbour crew at (02) 6652-3242 to get started.

Now, let’s dive into the most common methods to fix a broken tooth and get you smiling confidently again.

1. Dental Bonding: Quick and Easy Fixes

This quick and easy treatment involves applying a long-lasting resin material to the damaged area before setting it with a special curing light. The best part? Our dentists can usually perform this treatment in a single visit and without any anaesthesia.

2. Dental Veneers: Hollywood Smiles for Real Life

Veneer treatment requires the use of slim, custom-made coverings that stick to the front surface of damaged teeth, giving them a flawless appearance. While veneers require a bit of enamel removal, the results are well worth it, as they can last for a decade or longer with optimal care.

3. Dental Crowns: The Royal Treatment for Your Tooth

A severely broken tooth needs more protection, which is why our team may recommend a dental crown.

Crowns are like little tooth-shaped hats that cover the entire upper portion of a tooth, restoring its strength, appearance, and functionality. Dental experts can create crowns from durable materials, like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials.

4. Root Canal Therapy: Saving the Day from the Inside Out

If your broken tooth has exposed the pulp, causing pain or infection, you might need root canal therapy. This procedure involves removing the damaged dental material, cleaning the root canal, and sealing it with a crown to prevent further infection. 

5. Dental Implants: The Ultimate Replacement

Sometimes a broken tooth is just too far gone to be saved. In these cases, extraction and a dental implant might be the best option. 

This involves removing the damaged tooth and replacing it with an artificial one that’s anchored into the jawbone. Implants look and function just like natural teeth, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution.

6. Temporary Fixes: Quick Solutions for Immediate Relief

While waiting to see your dentist, you can use temporary fixes like dental wax or over-the-counter repair kits. These can provide immediate relief and protect your broken tooth from further damage. 

Just remember –  these are temporary solutions, and you’ll need to follow up with the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre to get a permanent fix.

Repair a Broken Tooth at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre

A damaged tooth can be a hassle, but with the right treatment, you’ll be back to flashing your pearly whites in no time. Don’t let a broken tooth bring you down—smile on and let our team work our magic. Contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre online to schedule an appointment today! 

Jun 19
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up close picture of woman's chipped tooth

Chipped Tooth? Here’s How to Turn That “Oops!” into a “Wow!”

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

We’ve all been there. You’re munching on something delicious—maybe a crunchy piece of candy or that unexpected hard kernel in popcorn—and suddenly, “CRACK!” Your tooth just took a hit. But you don’t have to let a chipped tooth chip away at your smile! Restorative dentistry treatments can work wonders on your injured grin.

Whether it’s a minor nick or a noticeable chunk, the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre is here to help. Dial (02) 6652-3242 to contact our crew in Coffs Harbour, NSW, or reach our Woolgoolga, NSW, team at (02) 6654-0650 to get started!

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around one billion people globally have sustained oral injuries, like chipped teeth. In today’s post, we walk you through the experience of a chipped tooth, giving you a step-by-step guide to get you back to flashing those pearly whites with confidence.

Step 1: Stay Cool, Ice Queen (or King)

Start by rinsing your mouth with clean water to wash the area. Then, grab an ice pack. If you don’t have one handy, a bag of frozen veggies works just fine. Apply it to the outside of your cheek near the chipped tooth. 

A frosty compress will help reduce swelling and numb any initial pain.

Step 2: Temporary TLC (Tooth Loving Care)

If your tooth is sharp or jagged, it’s worth covering it to prevent it from hurting your tongue or the inside of your cheek. 

Dental wax is your best friend here, but in a pinch, sugarless gum can also do the trick. Think of it as a little Band-Aid for your tooth, holding things together until you can get professional help.

Step 3: Phone a Friend – Your Dentist!

Time to dial up your dental guru. Explain what happened, and they’ll help you figure out the best next steps. 

Don’t wait too long—getting professional advice quickly is crucial to preventing further damage or infection. 

Step 4: The Magic of Dental Bonding

If your chip is minor, dental bonding might be the answer. This magical process involves applying a dental resin (which is the same colour as your teeth) to the chipped area. 

Dentists shape and polish the resin until it looks like part of your natural tooth. It’s quick, painless, and you’ll be in and out faster than you can say, “Abracadabra!”

Step 5: Veneers – Not Just for Hollywood

For larger chips or if you’re looking for a more permanent solution, veneers are a fantastic option. 

These thin shells of medical-grade porcelain are custom-designed to fit over your existing teeth. They’re durable, stain-resistant, and give you that flawless smile that’s red-carpet ready. 

Step 6: Crown the Tooth Royalty

Sometimes, a chip can be significant enough that a crown is necessary. This involves placing a prosthetic cap over the entire tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. 

Modern crowns look incredibly natural, so no one will ever know it’s not your original tooth.

Treat a Chipped Tooth in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW

Remember, it’s not the end of the world – it’s just a tiny hiccup in your journey to a brilliant smile. But time is of the essence. So, don’t delay. Contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre online for speedy, comprehensive care!

May 31
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hand holding model of teeth, placing a dental implant

Are you a candidate for dental implants?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

If you are missing teeth, your restorative options are more diverse than ever before. Along with traditional bridges and dentures, consider dental implants. Once surgically placed in your jawbone, these titanium posts will integrate with your bone tissue. In this way, they will replace your tooth roots and form a solid, durable base for a custom-made dental restoration. 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, both our Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbor locations are equipped with the latest technology. Our tools include orthopantomography and cone beam CT scanners. With this digital imaging, Dr. Arpit Pathak can accurately determine your candidacy for dental implants. If you qualify for treatment, these tools will also allow your dentist to create a unique surgical plan with minimal discomfort and recovery time. 

Contact us to find out if you are a candidate for treatment.  

The Number of Teeth You Are Missing

Whether you are missing one, several, or all of your teeth, dental implants may be an option. One implant can support a single crown. Two or more can uphold a bridge. You can even receive a full upper and/or lower denture. The number of implants you will need for a full denture will depend on the anatomy of your mouth. 

Your Jawbone Structure

Once you have lost even one tooth, your jaw will start to recede very quickly. This can often lead to additional tooth loss, and it can change the contours of your lower face. 

Significant jawbone recession can also compromise your ability to receive implants since you must have enough tissue to support the titanium posts. Fortunately, in many cases, a surgical bone graft can replace missing tissue and enable you to undergo further treatment. 

Your Periodontal Health 

Gum disease can also compromise your candidacy for implants. When you struggle with advanced periodontitis, your gums can start to recede and pull away from your tooth roots. If you have implants, gum recession will also affect the stability of the implant posts. 

Gum disease is quite common. Fortunately, many people with periodontitis will still qualify for implants. The disease must be under control, and you must be committed to maintaining good periodontal health. Your dentist may recommend treatment, such as scaling and root planing, before proceeding with implant surgery.

Your Physical Health

Certain health conditions can affect your ability to receive dental implants. One of the most worrisome conditions is diabetes, since it is widely publicized that diabetes can lead to implant failure. In fact, it’s only uncontrolled diabetes that is a concern. Studies show that diabetic patients with healthy HbA1c levels are just as likely to enjoy implant success as non-diabetic patients.

Other concerning health conditions include auto-immune diseases, blood clotting disorders, and cancer. Be sure to discuss your health history with your dentist at your implant consultation. 

Your Lifestyle 

Finally, to qualify for implants, you should be committed to good oral hygiene and habits. This includes daily flossing and brushing, as well as regular dental cleanings. Smoking is a major contributor to implant failure and complications. If you smoke, it won’t automatically disqualify you from dental implants, but for best results, you should commit to quitting before your surgery.

Contact Us to Learn More about Dental Implants 

Book your consultation at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today.

Reach us online. You can also call our Woolgoolga location at (02) 6654-0650 or our Coffs Harbor office at (02) 6652-3242.

May 26
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Smiling man with goatee and shaved head

The Key Differences Between Amalgam and Composite Dental Fillings

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Although dental fillings are among the most common restorative dentistry treatments, they are surrounded by a cloud of confusion and even controversy. Two kinds of fillings are widely available: silver amalgam and composite resin. But while amalgam has been around for centuries, many experts claim that they are dangerous and unnecessary. Meanwhile, composite fillings have soared in popularity, thanks to their cosmetic and health benefits. 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre in Coffs Harbor, we exclusively offer composite fillings. Dr. Arpit Pathak can even replace your old metal fillings with composite. Once your new composite fillings are in place, you will enjoy a beautiful smile and complete dental function. 

To learn more about our dental fillings or to schedule a restorative consultation, contact Magic Smiles today.

Composite Dental Fillings Look More Realistic

At first, silver amalgam fillings will usually blend in with your smile. Over the years, however, they can start to show through, giving your teeth a grey tint. 

In contrast, dental composite comes in a broad range of shades, so your dentist can easily find one that is an almost perfect match to your teeth.

Composite Causes Less Wear and Tear on Your Teeth

To prepare your tooth for any type of filling, your dentist will need to remove some dental tissue. This will, of course, include any decayed tissue, plus a bit more to ensure a strong bond for the filling. Many times, however, silver fillings require more tooth preparation than composite. 

Further, if you think back to your basic physics lessons, metal expands and contracts with changes in temperature. Thus, every time you eat or drink something particularly hot or cold, your filling will change shape. Over time, this can weaken your teeth, causing cracks and other damage. 

Composite Is 100% Mercury Free

“Silver amalgam” dental fillings actually contain several additional types of metals, including tin, copper, and liquid mercury. Long-term, excessive exposure to mercury can cause numerous health problems, including:

  • Tremors in the hands, lips and eyelids
  • Kidney dysfunction
  • Developmental issues in unborn children

In addition, although the nature of the connection is still being determined, it is known that Alzheimer’s patients have toxic levels of mercury in their brain tissues. Frighteningly, autopsies show that individuals with metal dental fillings have 2 to 5 times more mercury in their bodies than those without amalgam fillings.

Composite is Legal Across the Globe 

Because of the unnecessary health risks associated with silver amalgam, several countries around the world have already banned these dental fillings. Countries that have a general ban on amalgam include Sweden, Norway, the Philippines, and the UAE. Italy has pledged to phase it out by next year; many other countries have plans to do so by 2030. 

In Australia, amalgam fillings are still legal. However, the Australian Dental Association has issued a strong warning against using these dental fillings in pregnant women or patients under the age of 15.

Learn More About Our Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings 

Receive top-of-the-line dental fillings and personalized care when you visit Smiles Dentistry and Implant Centre. Contact us today to schedule your appointment. 

Reach us online or call us at (02) 6652-3242.

Apr 12
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Smiling girl with brown hair wearing red shirt

Top 7 Benefits of Dental Implants

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

A missing tooth or gap between your teeth leaves your smile incomplete. Just one lost tooth can negatively impact both your appearance and your oral health. While there are a variety of options for replacing missing teeth, dental implants are one of the best restorative options available. Dr. Arpit Pathak and the team at Magic Smiles provide dental restorations for residents in and around Coffs Harbor. 

Here are the top seven reasons why we love dental implants.

1. Dental Implants Provide a Solution to a Variety of Dental Issues

Many restorative options provide a limited amount of help. While full dentures, partial dentures, and bridges replace teeth, they come with a range of potential issues, such as slippage, poor fit, and a challenging care regimen. Dental implants, however, can replace one tooth or permanently stabilize a bridge, partial, or denture. This level of versatility allows our dental team to customize the perfect treatment for you–a treatment that could last the rest of your life!

2. Implants Look and Feel Natural 

One of the worst things about losing a tooth or teeth is how uncomfortable you feel. With dental implants, the jawbone and gums grow around the implant over time, creating the feel of natural teeth. We understand the importance of cosmetics, as well as oral health. Our team will shade-match your dental implants so that they perfectly match the color of your natural teeth. You’ll end up with a smile that feels and looks natural. 

3. They Can Restore Your Ability to Speak Naturally

Slurred or difficult speech is a common issue with tooth loss and also with wearing dentures. Missing teeth and dentures often impact the ability to speak comfortably. Patients may slur words and inadvertently whistle or spit when talking. Since dental implants mimic a natural tooth, they fit comfortably and will restore your ability to enunciate words, without causing embarrassing side effects. 

4. Dental Implants Will Return Your Bite Force to Natural Levels

When you have a damaged or missing tooth, your bite force becomes impaired. A dental implant will replace your original tooth’s root and crown, so it also restores your ability to bite down. In the dental implant process, dentists anchor the implants to your jawbone, giving you the same strength and bite force as you previously had.

5. Implants Prevent Bone Deterioration and Sagging Facial Structure

To keep bone mass healthy, your jaw needs teeth roots. When you lose teeth, jawbone mass deteriorates. Over time, you will also lose your youthful, full facial shape. Without teeth as a supporting structure, cheeks become sunken, and the face takes on a sagging appearance. With dental implants, our dentists restore the foundation of your face and help you prevent early aging. 

6. They Require No Extra Care

One of our favorite things about dental implants is how easily they are maintained. You won’t need to reline your dentures or follow up with any special instructions to keep your dental implants healthy and strong. Simply follow the provided instructions for regular, daily oral health care at home. 

7. Dental Implants Provide a Lifetime Solution for Missing Teeth

Many dental prosthetics (replacement teeth) provide durable, long-lasting solutions. However, most will need replacement over time. Bridges usually need replacement in 7 to 10 years. Dentures need to be refitted regularly and replaced every 8 years or so. In contrast, dental implants don’t need readjusting, refitting, or replacement. They can last thirty years or longer. 

 

Transform Your Smile and Your Health with Dental Implants

Missing or damaged teeth weaken a person’s self confidence and oral health. Dr. Pathak and the team at Magic Smiles offer a wide range of treatment options, including dental implants, to improve your smile and dental health. Come visit us at our Coffs Harbor location and we’ll get started on the perfect treatment plan for you. Call us today at (02) 6652-3242.