Category

Restorative Dentistry

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.

Jun 27
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two girls smiling-cost of dental bridges

Types and Cost of Dental Bridges

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Missing teeth hurt your self-esteem and your dental health. A dental bridge boosts your self-confidence and improves your oral health by restoring the look and function of your teeth. Magic Smiles is here to explain the types and cost of dental bridges so you can make the right decision for your smile.

Dr. Pathak and our team at Magic Smiles are experienced in placing traditional and implant-supported dental bridges. We may recommend either of these options to patients who are missing one or more consecutive teeth.

Traditional Dental Bridges

In order to be a good candidate for traditional dental bridges, you must have two healthy teeth, one on either side of the gap. These teeth will be fitted with crowns in order to support your new dental bridge. 

Cost

The cost of traditional bridges may vary depending on the number of teeth you need. Typically, these bridges may cost anywhere between $1500 to $6000 with an average of $700-$1500 per tooth. This is a long-term investment, as traditional bridges last 10 or more years with the proper care. 

Regular brushing and flossing as well as regular dental cleanings are still an important part of taking care of your smile. Dental bridges need to be maintained just like your natural teeth to extend their lifespan.

Implant-Supported Dental Bridges

One of the problems that occurs following tooth loss is bone loss. Without the tooth root to stimulate it, your jaw bone will start to deteriorate over time. Traditional bridges may replace your missing teeth, but they do not effectively stimulate your jaw. 

Implant-supported dental bridges are a reliable way to both restore your smile and protect your jaw bone. Dental implants are titanium pegs that act as prosthetic roots for your teeth. You new dental bridge is attached to these posts, replacing both your teeth and their roots.

Dental implants are safe and effective, and once healed, they feel just like your natural teeth. In order to be a good candidate for dental implants, you must have good overall oral health and no pre-existing conditions that could affect the osseointegration process.

Cost

The cost of implant-supported dental bridges is greater than traditional bridges. Depending on the number of implants needed, and the size and material of the bridge, implant-supported bridges can range from $3,500 to $30,000 or more. 

Some insurance covers replacement teeth, depending on the specifics of your policy. Usually, dental insurance may cover up to 50% of the cost of dental bridges but this varies by company. 

Although they are expensive, implants are safe and reliable. Studies have shown that implant supported prosthetics have a survival rate of more more than 90%. Additionally, no other prosthetic options properly stimulate your jaw bone.

Dental Bridges in New South Wales

The gap left behind by tooth loss can collect bacteria, increasing your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Are you experiencing jaw pain after tooth loss? Missing teeth can make you rely more heavily on one side of your mouth to eat, resulting in problems with your jaw. 

Replacing missing teeth is essential to protecting your oral health. With advanced technology and an experienced team, Magic Smiles can take care of all your restorative dentistry needs. Our doctors are trained to place implants, so you will not need a referral to an outside specialist.To learn more about restorative dentistry or to discuss the cost of dental bridges, schedule an appointment today. You can contact us online or call (02) 6654-0650 to start your journey to a healthier smile.

Jun 16
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Girl looks concerned after addressing teeth grinding in New South Wales

Dental Crowns: Why do they feel loose?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

At some point in your life, you might need dental crowns or “caps.” Dental crowns are artificial teeth that act as a protective outer layer of the tooth, which can prolong the life of your natural teeth. If you have severely damaged or decayed teeth, Dr. Arpit Pathak and the Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre team might recommend placing a dental crown as part of restorative dentistry treatment. Find out more information about our various dental crown options at our Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbour, NSW, dental offices by reaching out online.

Dental crowns look, feel, and function like natural teeth when properly placed. On the other hand, a loose crown can cause more problems than you might imagine. Aside from imperfect dental work, here are six other factors that might cause dental crowns to detach:

1. Physical Trauma

If you take a blow where a dental crown was placed, it can become loose or influence what’s beneath the restoration. For example, physical trauma can loosen the bonding agent. In other cases, the tooth underneath the dental crown can become fractured.

2. Bruxism

Bruxism is the unconscious grinding or clenching of teeth, which are not part of ordinary chewing actions. This condition is not only detrimental to your jaw and temporomandibular joint (TMJ), but bruxism can loosen, crack, and break your dental work.

3. Underlying Tooth Decay

Even though the crown itself cannot experience tooth decay, the underlying tooth can—beneath dental crowns, dentin, tooth root, and other dental structures are still intact. So, if the protected tooth starts to deteriorate along the gumline, the bonding agent that holds the dental crown in place and the tooth begin to break down. Ultimately, the crown will feel loose or even fall out.

4. Chewy and Sticky Foods

Please don’t let a snack dislodge your dental work. Commonly, chewy and sticky foods force dental crowns out of alignment. Sticky candies (like caramels) are especially hazardous since they slowly break the cement’s seal and can yank the restoration off the tooth.

5. Ill-Fitting Dental Crowns

Ideally, dental crowns have adequate size, length, and shape to blend in seamlessly with your smile. The underlying tooth serves as secure seating for a perfectly fitted crown. Once bonded, dental crowns shouldn’t loosen or come off easily.

However, your dental crown might feel like it’s about to fall off if the underlying tooth is inadequate, imperfectly shaped, or simply doesn’t fit. With brand new dental crowns, dentists typically notice a bad fit and take corrective steps before you realize that there’s an issue. Still, if you notice a bad fit with a crown that has been otherwise dependable for an extensive period, that could mean something has shifted, broken, or altered.

6. Older Dental Work

Sometimes, the fit of the crown is not the problem. Almost all crowns are cemented or bonded onto the natural tooth structure. After many years, the cement washes away. Consequently, the crown might loosen or fall off.

Wobbly dental crowns? Visit Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre

Even though loose dental crowns can be unsettling or uncomfortable, this is a relatively common issue. Luckily, if you act quickly and the underlying teeth and crown are not damaged, your dentist can recement the same crown. Call (02) 6652-3242 or message us online to schedule an appointment. The sooner, the better.

Jun 11
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woman hiding chipped teeth with her hands

Restorative Dentist Explains How to Care For and Repair a Chipped Tooth

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Suppose you’ve just crunched down on some hard candy or ice, then you notice a hard particle that doesn’t dissolve. Next, you get a sinking feeling as you realize what it is: it’s a tiny fragment of your tooth.

Restorative dentist Dr. Arpit Pathak offers restorative dentistry treatments to help you reclaim confidence in your smile and wellness. Have you recently chipped your tooth? If so, first book an appointment at our Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbour, NSW location as soon as possible. Secondly, read and follow these instructions:

How to Care for a Chipped Tooth

If you’ve accidentally chipped or broken a tooth, don’t panic. After scheduling a visit with your restorative dentist, take these precautions until you can meet with an oral health professional:

  • Manage Pain: If you’re experiencing dental pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever and use a saltwater rinse.
  • Adjust Your Mealtime Habits: When eating, avoid biting down on the fractured tooth and try to eat soft foods.
  • Protect Your Mouth: If your fractured tooth has a jagged or sharp edge, cover the uneven surface with a piece of paraffin wax. This can temporarily protect your tongue, cheeks, and other soft tissues.

How a Restorative Dentist Can Repair a Chipped Tooth

Treatment for a chipped or broken tooth is highly dependent on how seriously it is damaged:

Dental Bonding

Suppose you’ve chipped off a small amount of dental enamel. If this is the case, your restorative dentist can fix the damage with dental bonding in a single visit. Some patients prefer dental bonding because it’s affordable, quick, and straightforward. Generally, patients do not require anesthesia because they feel little to no discomfort during this procedure.

Porcelain Veneers

Although porcelain veneers are often associated with cosmetic dentistry, they can also be a long-lasting way to mend chipped teeth. Generally, a restorative dentist can attach porcelain veneers in two visits. 

Compared to other dental procedures (such as dental crowns and dental implants), porcelain veneers are conservative. Your restorative dentist will save as much of your natural tooth structure as possible before attaching the dental veneer.

Dental Crown

For larger chips or damaged molars, we suggest dental crowns. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover the tooth root. Typically, your restorative dentist can place a dental crown can in as little as two visits. 

If you have extensive structural damage, a custom-made crown can protect your tooth while relieving sensitivity. Dental crowns can last for years, depending on the type of crown, your restorative dentist’s skill-set, and how you treat your teeth.

Dental Implant

Seeing your restorative dentist as soon as possible could help protect your tooth from further damage and infection–potentially causing you to lose your tooth if you wait too long. 

Suppose this is the case, then your best restorative option in this worst-case scenario (tooth loss) is a dental implant. A dental implant-supported restoration is a highly successful dental device resembling a natural tooth in aesthetics, function, and feel.

See a Restorative Dentist ASAP!

Even though dental enamel is the hardest, most mineralized tissue in the human body, it has its limits. Thankfully, Dr. Pathak and his team of restorative dentists can help regain your smile if you damage your teeth. 

Don’t wait for a second longer! Meet with a restorative dentist by contacting one of our New South Wales dental offices:

  • Woolgoolga: (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour: (02) 6652-3242
May 19
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older woman smiling with dental implants

Dental Implants: Are they justifiable?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Generally, you only get two chances to have nice teeth. The first set is free because you were born with them. The second set could be dental implant-supported restorations. Unfortunately, if you disregard your dental implants, your only option will be removable prosthetics (such as dentures).

When you decide that dental implants are worth the investment, our Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre team can help you determine if they are suitable. So, feel free to book your first dental implant consultation at one of our three convenient New South Wales locations. Here, we describe five “highs” you can expect with dental implants and how to start the dental implant process.

1. High Self-Confidence

Your smile might be the first thing that someone sees. Are you embarrassed by how your smile looks with visibly missing teeth, or don’t trust your loose teeth? If so, you might feel self-conscious about the way your smile looks. Furthermore, you might feel reluctant to live your life to the fullest since missing or loose teeth can pose a challenge for eating, speaking, and smiling.

If this all sounds too familiar, consider dental implants. Dental implants might restore your self-esteem because they closely mimic natural teeth in appearance, feel, and durability. Plus, the dental implant mechanism helps stimulate the jawbone, meaning that you shouldn’t have to worry about further jawbone loss or facial distortion if correctly implanted.

2. High Satisfaction

Many patients walk out of our office satisfied with their new smiles. Nonetheless, our responsibility is to set realistic expectations for dental implants and other restorative dentistry procedures. In a study published in the International Journal of Dentistry, researchers discovered that patients tend to have higher degrees of satisfaction when providers fully inform patients about dental implants and when patients have realistic expectations.

As responsible healthcare community members, it’s part of our job to virtuously inform patients of what to expect before, during, and after their treatment process. For this reason, our team takes the time to go over all the ins and outs of dental implants before you commit to treatment and are available to answer questions during any point of the process.

3. High Success Rate

Dental implants rarely fail, and success rates are 90-95%. Furthermore, factors that impact the survival rate include:

  • Bone quality
  • Age
  • Length of implant
  • Diameter of implant
  • Region of the implant

4. Highly Biocompatible

Generally, dental implants are made of titanium and zirconium, but a porcelain prosthetic is placed on top. Titanium, zirconium, and porcelain are biocompatible materials, meaning the materials don’t cause adverse consequences to a patient’s biology.

In recent decades, dentists started using biocompatible materials for dental implants due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Also, the dental prosthesis undergoes modifications so that microorganisms struggle to amass (but cannot inhibit peri-implantitis).

5. Relatively High Cost

We’ll admit it: cheap can be good. Sure, you might feel lucky if you catch bargains on groceries, clothes, or other necessities. However, we don’t recommend skimping out on your dental care.

While it’s true that dental implants can cost a pretty penny (upwards of $2,850), they are considered the most effective tooth replacement method. For some, the exceptional benefits of this procedure are priceless.

Are you interested in dental implants?

If the answer to the questions is an astounding “YES!” then message us online or feel free to call at the closest Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre location near you:

  • Woolgoolga, NSW (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour, NSW (02) 6652-3242

We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

May 12
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dentist holding prosthetic dental dentures in hands

Traditional Prosthetic Dental vs. Implant-Supported Devices

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Have you lost some, most, or all of your natural teeth? If so, you might be wondering how much you can realistically expect from dental appliances. Is it possible to restore how your smile looks, functions, and feels? The Magic Smiles Dental Implant Centre team offers two options: traditional prosthetic dental devices and implant-supported devices.

There are fundamental differences between these two types of prosthetic dental devices. Whether you need a crown, bridge, or denture, here are some things that you need to consider before scheduling your consultation with a trusted NSW dentist.

Removability and Stability

Dentists secure traditional prosthetic dental devices in different ways. Crowns and bridges are attached to existing teeth—thus, deemed non-removable. On the other hand, denture prosthetists craft traditional dentures from an acrylic base with artificial teeth. Traditional dentures float on top of the gums, and wearers attach them with denture adhesive. Some denture wearers complain about shifting because it creates particular challenges, including:

  •       Slippage
  •       Difficulty eating and speaking
  •       Discomfort
  •       Mouth sores

Famously, implant-supported devices are secure and non-removable because the implant is directly inserted into the jawbone. Thus, creating a stable foundation for a prosthetic dental crown, bridge, or denture.

Procedure

Typically, dentists fit and install traditional prosthetic dental devices in just a few visits. However, the procedure process for dental implant-supported restorations is much more complicated. Dental implants require straightforward oral surgery and healing phases. Depending on the health of your jawbone, you might need a bone graft. Furthermore, bone grafting can solidify a base for the implant. Every patient heals differently, but it can take several months for your dental implant site to heal.

Jawbone Health

Did you know that your teeth are a critical component of preserving your jawbone density? Your natural teeth are embedded into your jawbone, and they are responsible for stimulating it through chewing and biting.

The alveolar bone is the portion of the jawbone that affixes the teeth in the mouth. It no longer receives stimulation when you lose a tooth. Consequently, the jawbone resorbs (begins to break down) when the tooth root is no longer present. This happens because the body believes it no longer uses or needs the jawbone, deteriorating and disappearing.

The key feature that distinguishes dental implant-supported devices from traditional prosthetic dental devices is the implant itself. Unlike traditional prosthetic dental devices, the dental implant mimics the natural tooth root, preserving the jawbone.

Risks

Tooth and jawbone loss is an ongoing issue with some traditional prosthetic dental appliances (such as bridges and dentures). Some potential issues include:

  •       Misalignment of remaining teeth
  •       Collapsed, distorted facial features
  •       Limited lip support
  •       Skin wrinkling around the mouth
  •       Communication challenges
  •       Temporomandibular joint pain
  •       Inadequate nutrition
  •       Sinus expansion

Although dental implant complications are rare, they do happen. Generally, the risks are easily treated and minor, including:

  •       Nerve damage
  •       Sinus problems
  •       Injury or damage to teeth, blood vessels, or other surrounding structures
  •       Infection at the implant site

Lifespan

There’s a common misconception that you’re set for life when you get traditional prosthetic dental devices or dental implant-supported appliances. However, both types of prosthetic dentistry devices require maintenance and possibly replacement. For example, dentures should be replaced after 10-15 years.

Although the implant is intended to be a permanent fixture, the prosthetic dental device (such as a crown) may need replacement eventually. In fact, 50-80% of single crowns should are replaced after 15-20 years of use. Although implant failure is unusual, factors that influence dental implant failure include:

  •       Unsatisfactory care and maintenance
  •       Inadequate bone density
  •       Smoking
  •       Teeth grinding
  •       Medical conditions (such as bleeding disorders, diabetes, and osteoporosis)
  •       Older age
  •       Radiation therapy
  •       Immunosuppressive drugs and blood-thinning medications

Ready to get started with traditional prosthetic dental or dental implant-supported devices?

Whether you’re interested in traditional prosthetic dental devices or implant-supported devices, Magic Smiles Dental Implant Centre can help. Find out more information by calling (02) 6654-0650 or messaging us online.

Feb 23
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couple smiling

Tooth Crown: Definition, Cost, and Durability

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Your oral health is important. That’s why regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for your overall health. But, even with proper oral hygiene and care, it’s still possible to experience dental damage due to decay or trauma. When this happens, you’ll need to seek restorative dentistry solutions (like a tooth crown!) as soon as possible.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our talented and caring team specializes in custom-made dental restorations that look great and feel even better. So, if you need to reestablish and reinforce your smile, contact our Coffs Harbour office immediately at (02) 6652-3242 or online here.

What is a tooth crown?

A tooth crown–also known as a dental crown or cap–is a tooth-shaped covering placed over a single tooth. It is a common dental restoration used for:

  • Protecting weakened or damaged teeth (often from dental decay)
  • Reinforcing a broken or severely worn tooth
  • Shielding a tooth after root canal therapy
  • Covering dental implants
  • Keeping dental bridges in place

A qualified dental professional permanently bonds a tooth crown to a damaged tooth. By covering a damaged tooth, dentists ensure that patients:

  • Restore their natural chewing and speaking ability
  • Prevent further damaging the tooth and surrounding teeth
  • Reduce tooth sensitivity 

Are there different kinds of dental crowns?

In short, yes! Patients can choose a dental crown that fits their unique health and aesthetic goals, including:

  • All ceramic: All-ceramic caps–also known as porcelain crowns–are an aesthetically-pleasing option. This is because dentists can expertly color match the cap to their patients’ surrounding teeth. All-ceramic crowns are ideal for front teeth because they can look seamless when you smile.
  • Metal: These dental crowns are more noticeable than all-ceramic crowns, but they are remarkably durable. So, patients who need a tooth crown on one of their back teeth may opt for a metal restoration.
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal: As the name suggests, this tooth crown offers benefits from both ceramic and metal restorations. This means that dentists can color match the ceramic cap to your surrounding teeth. However, the metal under the ceramic cap may appear as a dark shadow along the gum line.
  • Zirconia: Zirconium dioxide is a heavy-duty, biocompatible type of ceramic. As such, it provides unparalleled strength and longevity as a dental restoration. However, zirconia tooth crowns may not be as aesthetically-pleasing as all-ceramic caps.

How long can I expect my tooth crown to last?

Experts estimate that dental crowns may last for over a decade with the proper care. So, patients are encouraged to:

  • Brush at least twice daily
  • Floss everyday
  • Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings
  • Avoid tooth-damaging behavior, such as nail-biting, using teeth to open packaging, and eating excessively hard or sticky foods

How much do dental crowns cost?

Currently, patients can expect to pay between about $269 and $1,541 for a crown out of pocket.

However, patients who do not restore damaged teeth with a dental cap will run the risk of a painful tooth infection. If a damaged tooth gets infected, then a root canal may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading. And a root canal could cost patients a few hundred dollars (in addition to the cost of a restorative crown!).  

Protect your oral health—schedule an appointment today!

Untreated dental damage and decay can lead to increasingly painful and costly issues down the line. So, if you need restorative dental care, then don’t delay–contact one of our three offices online today!

Want to talk to us in person? Call the Magic Smiles team that’s closest to you!

  • Woolgoolga: (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour: (02) 6652-3242
Feb 10
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Smiling adult lady with dentures

Dentures: What They Are & How Much They Cost

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Have you lost your natural teeth because of decay, damage, or an accident? If so, you are not alone. According to the most recent Australia’s Adult Oral Health Tracker report, about 1 in 10 Australian adults suffer from severe tooth loss. If you are missing some or all of your teeth, dentures can restore the way your smile looks and add structure to the face. Nevertheless, dentures are much more than cosmetic devices. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, dentures can enhance chewing and speaking capabilities for the wearer. 

Just like the patients that use them, dentures are not one-size-fits-all. Today, a wide range of contemporary styles is available to meet individualized needs. At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our talented team can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Book one-on-one time with our in-house prosthodontist to learn more about which style of denture is most suitable for your unique scenario.

Partial

Partial dentures are an excellent option for anyone who has lost a few teeth. Consequently, natural teeth tend to shift when spaces form because of loss. To combat this issue, partials can preserve the placement of the remaining surrounding natural teeth.

Currently, partials range from $907-$1574, and the prices largely depend on the type of material used. Generally speaking, a partial denture with a resin base is more affordable than a partial denture with a cast metal framework (including rests and retainers).

Full

If you are missing an entire row of teeth, full (complete) dentures can effectively replace all natural teeth in the upper or lower jaws. This style of dentures is ideal for patients who have lost the majority (or all) of their teeth.

In Australia, here is what you can expect to pay:

  • Upper or lower full: Cost around $1,412 
  • Upper and lower: Cost about 2,562.

Implant-Supported

Compared to conventional style, implant-supported dentures:

  • Offer increased stability: Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures do not rely on dental adhesive and muscles in the mouth to stabilize. Instead, implant-supported appliances work by placing four implants into the upper or lower jawbone. 
  • Prevent jawbone atrophy: Dental implants act like natural tooth roots so that the supporting bone can withstand chewing forces.
  • Improved function and feel: In a 2019 study, people with implant-supported overdentures reported more satisfaction than those with traditional dentures.
  • Require lower maintenance: Usually, implant-supported appliances require less maintenance than traditional dentures. They do not require daily removal and can be taken care of similarly to natural teeth.

Dental implants can support both partial and full dentures at a higher up-front cost.

Request a Consultation Today

In summary, dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to give people who are missing multiple teeth a chance to smile, eat, and speak with confidence again. Also, the total cost reflects the type of denture selected, the insurance policy, and the location where he or she decides to go for treatment. 

A brand-new smile starts with a simple dental visit. Whether you are missing one, two, or more natural teeth, our Woolgoolga prosthodontist can create a fresh set of dentures to restore your smile. What are you waiting for? Call (02) 6654-0650 or message us online right now.

Dec 20
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Woolgoolga dentist handles dentures

Woolgoolga Dentist Explains the Advantages and Disadvantages of Dentures

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Tooth loss and inadequate detention (fewer than 21 natural teeth) are health issues for Australians of all ages. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that 1 in 10 adults over 15 years have inadequate detention (and this rate of inadequacy increases with age). For this reason, some people choose dentures in pursuit of improving oral function and take years off their appearances. If you are considering tooth replacement methods, you may want to know how they can improve or hinder your lifestyle. In this blog, Dr. Pathak, a Woolgoolga dentist, clarifies the pros and cons of dentures.

Advantages of Dentures

1. There are many types of dentures.

Dental prosthetists design dentures to look and feel like natural teeth. In partnership with Harry Ramana (our skilled and knowledgeable denture prosthetist with decades of international experience), Dr. Pathak helps patients decide on the following types of dentures:

  • Partial dentures
  • Full dentures
  • Traditional dentures
  • Implant-supported dentures

2. Dentures are affordable.

According to a recent Australian Dental Association survey, the cost of complete maxillary dentures can range between $950 and $2,000 (with an average price of $1,350). Compared to dental implants, traditional dentures can be much more reasonable than dental implants (especially when multiple implants are required). 

It’s important to mention that dentists set their fees, and their prices reflect on a wide range of factors, including: 

  • Overhead costs
  • Location
  • Insurance coverage
  • Degree of difficulty needed for each service

3. Dentures are a straightforward tooth replacement method.

Dentures don’t require as much time or in-office appointments as other dental procedures (such as dental implants). Dentists and dental prosthetists work together to design, create, and complete dentures within a few weeks and typically two in-office visits:

  • Visit One: The dentist takes dental impressions.
  • Laboratory Time: The dentist sends the impressions to a lab for fabrication.
  • Visit Two: The dentist fits the fresh set of dentures to the patient’s mouth. If needed, adjustments are made.

4. Dentures provide added support.

The masseter muscle is a thick muscle located in the cheek that closes and opens the jaws during chewing. As time marches on, facial muscles weaken, and studies prove that tooth loss can expedite this process. An eye-opening study published by BMC Geriatrics revealed that tooth loss and masseter muscle thickness have a stronger relationship than aging and skeletal muscle mass index do.

For this reason, dentists sometimes recommend dentures to combat weak and sagging facial muscles. Dentures provide additional support to the jaw and oral muscles, which result in a more youthful, natural appearance in the jaw, mouth, and cheekbones.

Disadvantages of Dentures

1. Dentures can change the facial structure.

When the natural tooth root is missing, the jawbone is not stimulated, leading to bone atrophy. Bone atrophy shrinks the underlying bone and changes face shapes and supporting gum tissue. Furthermore, dentures must be refitted (or relined) every five to ten years as facial structures change.

However, it’s important to note that patients who choose implant-supported dentures do not need to worry about this problem as much. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that mimics a natural tooth root and saves the supporting jawbone.

2. Dentures require an adjustment period.

As patients adjust to dentures, they may experience onset discomfort, diet changes, and other difficulties. After 30 days, new denture wearers can expect to feel “normal” again and become accustomed to a foreign object in their mouth. 

Chat with a Woolgoolga Dentist about Dentures

Even though dentures are not a perfect tooth replacement option, their benefits outweigh the shortcomings. Start your improved smile journey with dentures today. Call (02) 6654-0650 or message us online to speak about dentures in Woolgoolga.

Dec 13
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3D illustration of how crowns for teeth sit on a dental implant

Coffs Harbour Dentist Explains the Truth About Dental Implants

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

When it comes to replacing the natural tooth root, dental implants are the gold standard. Despite popular belief, the dental implant is not the replacement tooth itself. Dental implants are surgically-secured devices that secure prosthetic teeth and abutments (connecting piece).

If you or a loved one are considering tooth removal and replacement, continue reading. In this blog, Dr. Arpit Pathak, a Coffs Harbour Dentist, clears up four more common myths and misconceptions about dental implants.

Myth #1: Dental implants are expensive.

According to Dental Costs Australia, dental implants range in cost based on how many teeth need to be replaced and the location of the office:

  • Single Dental Implants: $2,850 to $6,500
  • A Single Dental Implant Plus Bone Grafting: $4,000 to $11,500
  • All-on-4® Dental Implants: $15,000-$30,000

While it’s true that dental fillings, root canals, and other dental procedures are less expensive than dental implant surgery. Most dentists suggest other less costly and more conservative treatments if the tooth root can be saved. However, it’s important to note that this is not an option in certain circumstances.

Dental implants are the most effective method of replacing missing teeth, and the benefits are priceless. Implant-supported restorations:

  • Behave like natural teeth
  • Are intended to last a lifetime
  • Prevent facial bone loss
  • Stabilize neighboring teeth

Over time, these benefits add up and may lead to less time and money needed for maintenance. Investing in dental implants now can eliminate the need for future procedures and therapies in the future. 

Myth #2: Implant surgery is scary and painful.

Even though anxious attitudes towards dental practice settings are a global, prevalent problem, anxiety does not equate to reality. Before dental implant surgery, your dentist will:

  1. Explain what will happen during surgery and recovery.
  2. Administer local anesthesia and optional sedation to add comfort to the dental surgery.
  3. If necessary, prescribe pain management for post-procedure discomfort

Myth #3: Dental implants require additional maintenance.

Indeed, dental implant patients must take additional precautions during healing (such as diet changes). However, implant-supported restoration maintenance after recovery is similar to typical dental care routines.

Dental implants are not as delicate as you may think, and a key component of successful implantation is successful osseointegration. Osseointegration involves bonding the load-bearing implant with the surrounding bone, which allows the implant the next best thing to a natural tooth root.

After successful osseointegration, patients with dental implants are encouraged to:

  • Brush and floss teeth daily
  • Visit the dentist for routine exams and professional cleanings every six months

When practiced consistently, dental hygiene habits prevent the development of tooth decay and gum disease. As a bonus, dental restorations are not susceptible to cavities and other issues like natural teeth.

Myth #4: Dental implants do not work for people with dentures.

If you are missing an entire row or set of teeth, consider All-on-4 dental implants. All-on-4 implants can replace the need for traditional dentures and bone grafts, using just four dental implants to support a full arch. 

Learn More About Dental Implants with a Coffs Harbour Dentist

At Magic Smiles Dental Implant Centre, Dr. Pathak helps patients decide if dental implants are the best option for each one-of-a-kind smile. Save your smile and act now. Schedule a consultation for dental implants with our Coffs Harbour Dentist by: