Category

Restorative Dentistry

Mar 27
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3D illustration of how crowns for teeth sit on a dental implant

Six Reasons Why You Might Need Crowns for Teeth

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Dental crowns are a common restorative dental procedure that involves placing a cap over a damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns for teeth can restore their shape, size, and strength. This means that these prosthetics can easily restore your chewing, speaking, and smiling abilities.

 

Crowns for teeth are an ideal way to reclaim your oral health and regain your confidence. If you’re interested in this restorative treatment, then contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today. With two locations in beautiful Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, NSW, we make dental care easy, effective, and convenient for you.

 

Typically, dentists use dental crowns to treat a variety of dental issues, as they can provide long-lasting results. In this blog, we discuss some of the reasons why you might need crowns for teeth.

Severe Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a common dental issue that can cause very wide and deep cavities to form in a tooth. If the decay is severe enough, it can weaken the tooth structure. This is critical, as a weak tooth is much more likely to crack or break over time.

 

Rather than a dental filling, a dentist can use a dental crown to cover the decayed tooth and restore its strength and function.

Cracked or Broken Teeth

A cracked or broken tooth can be painful, making it difficult to eat, drink, and communicate. Dentists can use crowns for teeth to cover dental damage and protect them from further injury. In some cases, a dentist can also use a crown to hold a broken tooth together.

Large Fillings or Repeated Dental Work

Large fillings and repeated dental work on the same tooth can weaken the tooth structure, making fractures likely in the not-so-distant future. Dentists can use dental crowns to cover the tooth and provide additional support, preventing further damage and potential tooth loss.

Root Canal Treatment

A root canal is a procedure that dentists use to remove infected dental pulp from the inside of a tooth. After a root canal, the tooth can become weak and brittle, making it likely to crack or fracture. 

 

Rather than dental fillings, dentists use crowns for teeth that receive root canal therapy. The crowns offer superior protection compared to fillings, which is why root canals are roughly 98% effective. 

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement option. It involves placing a metal post into the jawbone and attaching a dental crown to the top of the post once the implant fully heals. 

Cosmetic Reasons

Patients can also use dental crowns for cosmetic reasons, such as:

  • Covering dental damage, like chips
  • Concealing craze lines
  • Hiding stubborn dental stains
  • Changing the size and shape of irregular teeth

Crowns for Teeth in New South Wales

Crowns can restore your smile, enhance your oral health, and beautify your appearance. If you think that you might benefit from crowns for teeth, then contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today! All patients can reach our team of experts by submitting messages online here.

Mar 14
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Woman clutches an ice pack to the side of her face before her wisdom teeth removal

Six Signs That It’s Time for Wisdom Teeth Removal

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Wisdom teeth (also known as third molars) are typically the last group of teeth to appear in a person’s mouth. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, but sometimes earlier. While some people may have no problems with their third molars, others may experience pain, discomfort, and other complications. In such cases, removal may be necessary to restore your smile.

The experienced team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre can help you remove bothersome wisdom teeth. With gentle techniques and state-of-the-art technology, our team can restore your smile back to its original comfort and function. Contact one of our two, friendly locations in NSW (Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour) to get started now!

Third molars often have a sneaky way of making their presence known. In this blog, we reveal some common signs that you may need your wisdom teeth removed.

Pain or Discomfort

One of the most common signs that it’s time to remove wisdom teeth is pain or discomfort. If you experience pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth, it could be a sign that your wisdom teeth are coming in. It could also mean that they are impacted or infected. 

Swelling or Redness

Swelling or redness in the gums or around the third molars may be a sign of an infection. If you experience swelling or redness, it is important to see a dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible. These experts will be able to determine the cause of the inflammation and make appropriate recommendations for treatment.

Difficulty Opening or Closing Your Mouth

If you have difficulty opening or closing your mouth, it could be a sign that your wisdom teeth are impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth occur when they don’t have enough space to emerge properly. This causes them to push against other teeth, which then leads to pain and discomfort.

Crowded Teeth

Wisdom teeth can push surrounding teeth together, which can cause overcrowding, shifting teeth, and tooth and jaw misalignments. This can cause problems with your bite and make it harder to maintain good oral hygiene, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Cysts of Tumors

In rare cases, third molars can cause the development of cysts or tumors in the jawbone. These growths can cause damage to the teeth, gums, and jawbone. Typically, they require surgery to remove.

Decay or Gum Disease

Third molars can be difficult to clean properly, making them more susceptible to decay and gum disease. If your third molars are causing oral health problems, your dentist may recommend their removal.

Wisdom Teeth Removal in New South Wales

Third molar removal is the most common oral surgery treatment performed in Australia. In fact, almost 40% of all oral health-related hospitalisations are due to impacted or infected wisdom teeth. But, you don’t have to wait until you end up in the hospital–the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre can help!

Get the proactive care you deserve with our team in Coffs Harbour or Woolgoolga, NSW, today. Send us a quick message here to get started now!

Mar 01
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Girl looks concerned after addressing teeth grinding in New South Wales

Teeth Grinding: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Treat It

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common dental problem. The condition causes patients to grind, clench, or gnash their teeth unconsciously, usually while they are sleeping. Teeth grinding can lead to a range of dental problems, including tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, and dental damage. Luckily, restorative dentistry treatments can address the issue and fight the pain.

If you’re waking up with jaw pain or experiencing persistent tooth sensitivity, then you might need bruxism treatment. At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we can help. Get the restorative, neuromuscular care you deserve in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW, today. 

Understanding why teeth grinding occurs can be tricky. In this blog, we explore possible reasons why bruxism occurs and how you can treat the root cause and symptoms.

What causes teeth grinding?

There is no single cause of teeth grinding, but it is believed to be a result of several factors, including 

  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Abnormal bite patterns

Other possible causes include:

  • Sleep disorders, like obstructive sleep apnea
  • Certain medications, like antidepressants 
  • Some lifestyle habits, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Bruxism can also be a side effect of other medical conditions, such as:

  • Parkinson’s disease 
  • Huntington’s disease
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD)
  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

How do you treat teeth grinding?

There are several ways that patients can address bruxism. In fact, many patients choose to combine teeth-grinding treatments for optimal success. Let’s explore common treatment options now.

Wear a Night Guard

The most common way to treat bruxism is by wearing a night guard. 

A night guard is a custom-made dental instrument that is worn over the upper teeth at nighttime to protect them from grinding. Dental professionals craft night guards with soft, flexible material. As a result, they are comfortable enough to wear while sleeping. 

Manage Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are common triggers of bruxism. Therefore, managing stress and anxiety can help reduce it. 

To reduce stress, anxiety, and the likelihood of bruxism, engage in relaxing activities, such as

  • Meditation
  • Yoga
  • Deep breathing 

Make Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle habits (like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption) can increase the likelihood of bruxism. Changing these habits can help reduce the incidence of teeth grinding.

Treat Underlying Medical Conditions

If certain medical conditions are causing bruxism (like Huntington’s or Parkinson’s disease), then it is best to treat those conditions with your primary care physician. Bruxism treatment comes secondary to primary medical issues.

Dental Correction

Misaligned teeth and abnormal bites can create improper contact between the teeth. This can make bruxism worse. Orthodontic treatments and other corrective procedures can correct crooked teeth and jaws, which mitigates bruxism.

Teeth Grinding Treatment Near Me

Experts estimate that approximately 16% of people have sleep bruxism worldwide. Are you one of them? If so, you can get simple yet effective treatments at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Center. Contact one of our three locations online here to request your appointment now!

Dec 19
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3D illustration of how dental crowns are placed on the teeth.

Dental Crowns vs. Dental Fillings: Which is right for me?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Leaving dental damage and decay untreated can be risky. It can lead to significant pain and trigger other oral health issues, eventually resulting in disease, dysfunction, and tooth loss. Luckily, restorative dentistry treatments (like dental crowns or fillings) can help you address damage and decay so that you can smile with complete comfort and confidence.

 

Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre is your premier location for preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour. Don’t let cavities and dental damage disrupt your life–schedule an appointment with our team here to get the care you deserve.

 

Before you address cavities, chips, cracks, or fractures, you need to know the primary differences between dental crowns and fillings. In this blog post, our team compares and contrasts dental crowns vs. dental fillings so that you can make the best choice for your smile.

What are dental fillings?

Dental fillings allow dentists to fill in small cavities, cracks, chips, and pits in the teeth. As a result, dental fillings are an ideal way to restore minimally-damaged teeth back to their original shape and strength. 

Lifespan

There are different types of fillings, including metal and tooth-colored composite resin. The lifespan of dental fillings is largely dependent on which type of filling patients receive.  

 

At Magic Smiles, we provide patients with aesthetically-pleasing and effective composite resin fillings. These tooth-colored restorations can last patients for 10 years or longer with the proper upkeep.

Cost

In Australia, the government does not fund many dental treatments in the same way that it covers other medical treatments. Therefore, patients may be responsible for all dental filling costs.

 

Luckily, fillings are an affordable way to repair and enhance your smile. Surveys suggest that simple fillings may cost patients around $275, while more complicated fillings may total around $500.

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns go by many names, including teeth crowns and caps. But, no matter what name they go by, they are a long-lasting way to repair significantly damaged or decayed teeth. 

 

Caps are tooth-shaped prosthetics that fit over badly injured or decayed teeth. Because crowns completely encapsulate compromised teeth, they offer more protection against future damage and decay than fillings do.

Lifespan

Similar to fillings, crowns also come in many different varieties, including porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and zirconia. At Magic Smiles, we provide numerous types of crowns so that you can choose the right restoration for you.

 

In general, dental caps can last for 15 years or longer with diligent care.

Cost

Again, patients may be responsible for all dental-crown costs. And, unfortunately, caps are more pricey than fillings, with most treatments costing over $1,000. However, the cost of treatment directly reflects dental caps’ effectiveness, as they offer far more protection than fillings.

Which is right for me?

Typically, dental fillings are right for patients with minimal damage or decay. Alternatively, caps may be ideal for patients with significant damage or decay. 

 

But, you don’t have to make the choice alone–the team at Magic Smiles can help you pick the best option for your smile and budget.

Learn More About Dental Crowns and Fillings 

Let the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre help you restore your smile’s health, beauty, and function with comprehensive solutions. Reach out to our team here to learn more about your restorative options today.

Nov 03
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Close-up image of crowns for teeth in Coffs Harbour, NSW

Six Reasons to Get Crowns for Teeth

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Dental crowns for teeth serve as protective coverings to combat continued damage, decay, and dysfunction. As a result, dental crowns (also called caps) are a popular restorative solution to strengthen and beautify patients’ smiles.

 

Looking for top-notch restorative dental care in a friendly and educational atmosphere? Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre is your premier location for all things dental health. Schedule your next dental appointment at one of our three, convenient locations in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, New South Wales by submitting a request online here.

 

Meanwhile, let our team tell you six reasons why you might need dental crowns for teeth. From restorative to cosmetic, these versatile prosthetics offer numerous benefits.

1. Prevent Cavities from Spreading

Did you know that cavities are contagious? 2014 research indicates that cavities are infectious, as cavity-causing bacteria are easily transmissible via saliva. That’s right–swapping spit can result in tooth-destroying cavities.

 

If you have a cavity, then it’s important to protect yourself and others from damaging bacteria. Dental caps can prevent extensive dental decay from spreading to surrounding teeth or other people. As a result, crowns for teeth serve as comprehensive treatments that restore patients’ smiles and their interpersonal relationships. 

2. An Alternative to Traditional Teeth Whitening

Traditional teeth-whitening treatments easily lift external stains from the teeth. But, when it comes to internal discoloration, traditional teeth-whitening just won’t cut it.

 

Internal stains may be the result of trauma, medications, or health conditions. Whatever the cause, they are immune to traditional whitening methods. Instead, patients with intrinsic stains can seamlessly cover discoloration with tooth crowns.

 

Our team can craft and color-match crowns to patients’ exact specifications. As a result, patients can tailor their smiles to meet their aesthetic, health, and budgetary goals.

3. Combat Tooth Sensitivity

Thinning tooth enamel is the primary cause of dental sensitivity. And, even though tooth enamel is the toughest substance in our bodies, it is incapable of repairing itself once damaged.

 

Significantly worn or thin tooth enamel requires reinforcement. However, simpler solutions (like dental fillings) may not be enough to support ultra-weak teeth. Dental caps offer more protection than fillings while also improving the appearance of dull or discolored teeth.

4. Complete a Dental Implant or Dental Bridge

Tooth caps can sit atop a dental implant to replace missing teeth. Alternatively, crowns can serve as anchors on neighboring teeth to keep dental bridges securely in place. 

5. Protect Teeth Following Root Canal Therapy

If a cavity goes untreated for too long, it may result in a painful (and potentially life-threatening!) root canal infection. Luckily, root canal therapy effectively removes the infection. But, teeth with root canal infections require long-lasting protection.

 

A tooth cap protects and restores teeth following root canal therapy. As a result, patients can keep their natural teeth longer without sacrificing their overall aesthetic.

6. Reshape Teeth to Improve Oral Function and Aesthetics

In some cases, short or misshapen teeth can affect dental occlusion (the way our teeth align and interact). Dental crowns for teeth with abnormalities help patients improve their bite patterns, which improves their oral function and appearance.

Crowns for Teeth in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour

Are you ready to see if crowns are right for your teeth? Then, contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today! Patients can easily reach one of our three locations by submitting appointment requests online here.

Oct 26
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Side-by-side comparison of teeth with cavities and teeth with teeth fillings in place.

Teeth Fillings 101: Everything You Want to Know

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Our teeth play an important role in our lives. They help us speak, bite, chew, and smile. But, if damage or decay sets in, then our teeth are likely to weaken over time. And, when our teeth are weak, our oral health suffers. Luckily, restorative dentistry options (like teeth fillings) are an excellent way to repair a damaged smile while also enhancing your oral and overall health. 

Serving patients in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, NSW, the family at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre is here to repair and restore your smile. From dental fillings to dentures, we have it all. So, don’t wait for damage or cavities to get worse–contact our team today to schedule an exam.

One way that our talented dentists can address dental damage and decay is with tooth fillings (also called dental fillings). In this post, our team tells you everything you want to know about fillings. 

What are tooth fillings?

As the name suggests, dental fillings clog (or fill in) areas of weakness caused by disease, injury, or overbrushing. 

Oftentimes, we use fillings to prevent cavities from spreading further. Other times, however, we may use tooth fillings to strengthen weak teeth or cover damage (like fracture lines, chips, and cracks). 

Whatever the case, dental fillings are a remarkably versatile, safe, and effective way to repair a damaged smile.

What kinds of dental fillings are there?

Dental professionals can use many different materials to fill in cavities or pits, such as:

  • Gold
  • Silver amalgam
  • Porcelain 
  • Composite resin

At Magic Smiles, our team strongly recommends composite resin dental fillings. These types of fillings are tooth-colored, which allows patients to seamlessly repair their grins. Furthermore, composite fillings:

  • Require less preparation
  • Are more biocompatible than metal fillings
  • Can address more dental issues (especially in the front teeth)

Does it hurt to get a tooth filling?

During treatment, patients should not feel any pain. We completely numb the treatment site before injecting local anesthesia to eliminate pain during the procedure. However, patients may still feel some light pressure during their treatment. 

If you feel even the slightest bit of pain, please let us know. Your comfort is our number one priority! 

How long does a dental filling last?

Depending on the material used, dental fillings may last for several years. For example, gold, silver, and porcelain fillings may last for 15 years, while composite resin fillings may last for only ten years.

Regardless of which material you choose, you can ensure and lengthen the lifespan of your filling by:

  • Conducting daily oral hygiene practices (like twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing)
  • Limiting troublesome behaviour (like opening packages with the teeth or munching on ice)
  • Visiting a dentist every six months for a routine exam and cleaning

Ask Us If Tooth Fillings Are Right For You

Have more questions about restorative dentistry? No problem! Contact the friendly team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today. We’ll gladly help you choose treatments that fortify your smile without sacrificing your comfort or budget. Just send our team a message here to get started!

Oct 20
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3d render of jaw with a dental bridge

5 Dental Bridge Facts

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Restoring missing teeth is a big deal, and every option should be carefully considered. If you’ve researched your restorative dentistry options, a dental bridge has likely popped up. 

To learn more about how a dental bridge can improve your smile, contact our friendly dental team at Magic Smiles. Our Woolgoolga dentists can evaluate your smile and determine if you are a suitable candidate for this restorative treatment option. 

Get more familiar with dental bridges by reading this blog! Here are five important facts to know before getting a dental bridge: 

1. A dental bridge replaces one, two, or three missing teeth in a row. 

A dental bridge is one of the most common tooth-replacement options. A traditional dental bridge (the most common type of bridge) comprises two dental crowns with pontics (false teeth) between the crowns. All parts are attached, so the bridge can only replace one, two, or three missing teeth in a row.  

2. There are different types of dental bridges.

The different types of dental bridges are: 

  • Conventional or Traditional: A traditional bridge is the best option for your smile if you have two healthy teeth on either side of the gap. 
  • Maryland: Often used to replace front teeth, the pontic is fixed to the back of the neighboring teeth with metal or porcelain wings. 
  • Cantilever: A cantilever bridge may be needed if you only have one tooth next to the missing tooth or teeth. 

Some dentists only offer conventional dental bridges because they are the most reliable and effective option. In contrast, Maryland and cantilever bridges often fail or need to be replaced after a few years. 

3. Some dental bridges require alteration to neighboring teeth. 

When placing a traditional or cantilever dental bridge, the dentist needs to remove enamel from the neighboring teeth or tooth. The dentist takes a special tool to grind the enamel down so that the crown or crowns fit securely over the teeth. This means that the patient will always need a crown on top of those teeth, even if their bridge is removed. 

4. Dental bridges do require special care (but not too much!). 

It’s important to care for your dental bridge properly. Brushing and floss should still be a part of your daily routine, even though you won’t be able to floss between your crowns and pontic. However, plaque and tartar can accumulate in the area between the pontic and the gums. A floss threader, interdental brush, or a water pick should be used to clean this area daily. 

5. There are alternatives to a dental bridge. 

If you are curious about other restorative dentistry options, ask your dentist about dentures and dental implants. 

Dentures are best suited for people who are missing an entire arch of teeth and who aren’t willing or able to undergo implant surgery. 

Dental implants are the only tooth-replacement option that replaces the tooth root. The implants can be attached to a crown, bridge, or denture. This option is permanent and can last for decades. 

Dental Bridge, Dental Implants, and Dentures in Woolgoolga

Learn about your tooth replacement options at one of our three locations: Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour. Call today to schedule your initial consultation!

Oct 12
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Man holds partial dentures in his hand

How healthy are your dentures? Take this quiz to find out!

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Whether partial or complete, your dentures require daily maintenance and upkeep. Although denture care is relatively easy, choosing the right products and techniques may not be. Fortunately, our restorative dentists are here to help.

 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we take great pride in teaching our patients how to properly care for their dentures. But, even with the proper care, patients should get their dental restorations checked regularly to assess their fit and function. Get your restorations checked today by our team in Woolgoolga, or Coffs Harbour, NSW, by sending our team an appointment request online.

 

Meanwhile, let’s test your knowledge about denture care. You might be surprised to learn that your dentures aren’t as healthy as they can be.

You should rinse your dentures after snacks, meals, and sugary drinks.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

True. Patients should remove and rinse their dentures with warm (never hot!) water after eating snacks or meals or after drinking sugary beverages. Not rinsing dentures after eating and drinking leaves patients vulnerable to bacterial overgrowth, irritation, and infection.

You should wear dentures while sleeping.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

False. Dental professionals recommend removing dentures nightly to disinfect the appliances in an overnight soaking solution. Nightly removal also gives the gums time to rest and recover, which limits the risk of contact ulcers in the mouth.

You should soak, disinfect, and remove denture stains with bleach.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

False. Patients should never use bleach or bleach-containing products to soak or clean dentures. Bleach can weaken the appliance, which can alter its performance and the way it feels in the mouth. Additionally, bleach can change the color of restorations in unpredictable and unappealing ways.

 

Instead, patients should use dentist-approved denture cleansers, like these safe and effective products.

Whitening toothpastes can brighten a dull denture.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

False. Whitening toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients that can scratch the surface of dentures. These micro-scratches can worsen stains and rob restorations of their lifelike shine.

 

Patients should use hydrogen peroxide and a soft-bristled toothbrush to lift stains from the appliance without damaging it.

You need to continue brushing your mouth after getting dentures.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

True. Even though patients may have no natural teeth remaining, they should still brush their mouths every day. Brushing the gums, tongue, and hard palate keeps bacteria at bay while also removing denture adhesive and other irritants from the mouth.

A dentist should assess the fit and function of a denture yearly.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer

True. Experts recommend dental checkups every six to 12 months to keep dentures working comfortably and effectively. In fact, regular dental checkups at Magic Smiles can help patients keep their restorations functioning optimally for 15 years or longer!

Considering dentures? Schedule a consultation today!

Don’t let tooth loss keep you from enjoying your life to the fullest. Contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today to discuss your restorative options. 

 

Patients can conveniently reach one of three locations by submitting an online appointment request here.

 

 

Jul 19
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Woman clutches an ice pack to the side of her face before her wisdom teeth removal

Take This Quiz to See How Much You Know about Root Canal Treatment

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

We’ve all heard horror stories about root canal therapy, but how much do you really know about this restorative treatment? You might be shocked to learn that it’s less painful than you may think!

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team is passionate about dentistry. That’s why we offer numerous restorative treatments to help patients reclaim control over their oral and overall health. If you’re ready to talk to our team in Woolgoolga or Coff Harbor, NSW, then request your appointment online here.

Meanwhile, let’s test your knowledge about root canal treatment. Answer these questions to see how much you know!

A root canal is…

  1. A dental instrument
  2. A blood vessel
  3. A tunnel within a tooth
  4. None of the above

 

Answer: C

We commonly hear ‘root canal’ as a term for a dental procedure, but a root canal is a naturally occurring tunnel within our teeth. These tunnels house dental pulp, which is full of nerves, blood vessels, and sensitive tissue.

You might need root canal treatment if…

  1. You have a dental abscess
  2. You have a tooth infection
  3. You have a cracked tooth
  4. All of the above

 

Answer: D

When bacteria enter the dental pulp inside our teeth, the tissue inside gets contaminated. This can result in a painful tooth infection that manifests as a bump, or dental abscess, on the gums. 

Oftentimes, a large cavity is responsible for eating away at teeth and gaining access to dental pulp. However, other dental damage (like a cracked tooth) can expose dental pulp, which will require root canal treatment.

Root canal therapy is very painful. True or False?

  1. True
  2. False

 

Answer: B

In the past, root canal therapy was extremely painful. However, root canals today are virtually painless thanks to local anesthesia and sedatives. Residual discomfort following the procedure may occur, but most patients can quell the pain with over-the-counter painkillers. Typically, patients leave our office feeling far less pain than when they walked in!

Root canals are not a successful dental solution. True or False?

  1. True
  2. False

 

Answer: B

Research indicates that root canals have an extremely high success rate of approximately 94%. This means that root canals give patients long-term relief from dental infections, which leads to a healthier mouth and smile.

What do dentists use to fill in a tooth after removing the infected pulp inside a tooth?

  1. Gutta-percha
  2. Gum
  3. Metal
  4. None of the above

 

Answer: A

Once our team removes the infected pulp inside a tooth, we must fill in the empty root canal to prevent more bacteria from entering the tooth. In most procedures, our team uses a material known as gutta-percha to fill in the empty space. 

Gutta-percha is a rubber-like substance that comes from a tree commonly found in Southeast Asia. The substance is biocompatible, meaning it works with the body rather than against it.

After the procedure, a dentist must cover the tooth with a dental crown. True or False?

  1. True
  2. False

 

Answer:  A

Filling in the tooth with gutta percha is just one way to protect an affected tooth from further damage. The second line of defense is a durable restoration, like a dental crown. These strong, ceramic coverings support the structural integrity of teeth and protect them from bacteria.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you think that you might need root canal therapy, then don’t delay. Call Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre for a consultation today. Our team will help you fight the pain and restore your smile.

To request an appointment at one of our three locations, send our team a secure message online here.

Jul 17
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An illustration showing how dental fillings work

Four FAQs about Dental Fillings

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

If you have worn tooth enamel or cavities, then you may need dental fillings to repair your smile. Dental fillings are just one way that a restorative dentist can help you strengthen your teeth and prevent worsening oral health conditions.

 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team of dedicated dentists are here to help you get the healthy and happy smile that you deserve. So, if you suspect that you might have a cavity, then don’t wait–schedule an appointment to discuss dental fillings with a New South Wales dentist now. New and existing patients can request an appointment online here.

 

Meanwhile, let our team answer four frequently asked questions (FAQs) about tooth fillings. Using this information might help you make the right decision for your smile and oral health.

What are dental fillings made from?

In the past, dentists used a blend of metals to fill in cavities or worn tooth enamel. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that this metallic blend typically contains about 50% elemental mercury by volume. And, elemental mercury is a well-known neurotoxin. So, most dentists today no longer use metal to fill cavities or strengthen weak enamel.

 

Today, dental professionals use composite resin as fillings. Composite resin is a biocompatible material, so patients don’t have to worry about heavy metals seeping into their bloodstreams. 

 

Not only do composite dental fillings work better with our bodies, but they are more aesthetically-pleasing, too. No more dark, metal dental fillings–just seamless, tooth-colored fill-ins!

How long do dental fillings last?

Research suggests that the majority of composite dental fillings last for approximately seven years before needing replacement. However, newer research indicates that proper dental hygiene and maintenance could allow patients to enjoy their dental fillings for more than 10 years.

 

So, get the most out of your dental fillings by brushing after every meal, flossing at least once a day, and visiting our dental team for regular dental exams and cleanings.

How do I care for a new dental filling?

Besides brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and scheduling regular dental visits, patients should protect their new tooth fillings by:

  • Avoiding excessively sticky or hard foods
  • Using dentist-approved toothbrushes and toothpaste
  • Wearing mouthguards for teeth grinding or during high-contact activities

 

Taking these precautions will prevent a new dental filling from falling out or getting damaged.

Does getting a dental filling hurt?

At Magic Smiles, we prioritize our patients’ comfort. That’s why we use top-of-the-line numbing agents and sedatives. So, patients who need a dental filling shouldn’t feel any pain during their treatment.

 

Nonetheless, patients may experience some slight pressure or discomfort during their procedure. Ordinarily, the procedure is pain-free, but some patients report minor sensitivity following their appointments. Typically, the sensitivity resides within a couple hours, allowing patients to get back to their regular activities. 

See if dental fillings are right for you–schedule a consultation!

If you think that you might need tooth fillings, then don’t delay–schedule an appointment at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today. Patients can easily request an appointment online here.