Category

Restorative Dentistry

Oct 13
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Damaged Dental Bridge: Can it be repaired?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Dental bridges are an effective and popular  treatment for missing teeth. While a bridge can last for decades, there are several reasons why a patient may have a damaged dental bridge: 

  • Tooth movement caused by gum disease or other oral health factors
  • Chewing on ice and other hard objects
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Trauma 

So, what should you do if you have a damaged dental bridge? And how can you avoid damage in the first place? We’ve got the answers! 

Signs of a Damaged Dental Bridge

The most obvious way to know there is a problem is if the bridge falls off. However, the signs of a damaged dental bridge aren’t always so obvious. 

Other indicators of a dental bridge that needs repair include: 

  • Looseness or movement
  • Rough or sharp spots that irritate or cut the tongue
  • Pain, redness, or sensitivity around the bridge
  • A crack in the supporting tooth 

Repair vs Replace

The possibility of repairing a damaged bridge really depends on what the damage is and what it was caused by. In some cases, the bridge can be repaired, but in others, it must be replaced. 

Repairing a Damaged Dental Bridge

Sometimes a small chip or crack in a crown can be fixed with dental bonding materials. Loose bridges can be recemented in place as long as there are no additional issues related to the teeth. 

Replacing a Dental Bridge

If the abutment teeth are damaged, the dentist will likely need to remove the bridge to evaluate and treat the teeth.  If the damage is not too significant, the teeth can be fixed and the bridge replaced. 

Abutment teeth that are too decayed or damaged may not be able to hold a dental bridge any longer. In this case, a dental implant may be recommended to replace the missing tooth or teeth. 

How to Avoid a Damaged Dental Bridge

The team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre knows that the best way to repair a bridge is to not damage it in the first place. You can avoid common dental bridge problems by: 

  • Proper cleaning and care: Patients with bridges need to brush their bridge and teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled brush. Additionally, they need to floss daily, sometimes using a waterpik or floss threader to get under the bridge and remove food and plaque. Regular dental cleanings and checkups allow your dentist to inspect and stay ahead of any potential problems. 
  • Avoiding foods that may damage the bridge: Patients with bridges should be careful to avoid anything that could damage the porcelain exterior of their bridges. These foods include hard nuts, hard candies, popcorn, sugary treats, or sticky caramels. Also, avoid chewing ice.
  • Use your teeth as intended: Your teeth should not be used to tear, cut, or hold anything other than food in your mouth. Using your teeth to try to open a bottle can chip and damage teeth or your bridge.

Dental Bridge Repair in Woolgoolga

Regardless of how or why it was damaged, it is important to get a damaged bridge repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Damaged bridges may not cause pain or discomfort at first, but damage can expose the bridge and surrounding teeth to bacteria and decay causing more problems over time. 

If you are worried about damage or decay to your dental bridge, contact our dental team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre at (02) 6654-0650

 

Sep 29
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3D graphic of dental implant

Dental Implants vs. Dentures (Which option is better?)

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

There are a few options when replacing one or more teeth, including dental implants and removable dentures. Ultimately, dentures and implant-supported prostheses serve similar purposes:

  • Supporting facial muscles
  • Stabilizing remaining teeth
  • Biting and chewing foods
  • Improving speech and aesthetics

However, there are significant differences between dental implants and dentures. Choosing the most suitable tooth-replacement solution depends on bone health and lifestyle. Here are four factors to consider before choosing between dental implants or dentures:

1. Jaw Bone Density

A healthy, strong jawbone continuously destroys and rebuilds itself thanks to natural chewing forces. Consequently, when a tooth is lost or extracted, chewing forces become unbalanced, and the bone cannot rebuild itself at the rate it is being destroyed. During the first year after tooth loss or extraction, bone loss is anticipated and will continue over time.

Dental implants combat bone atrophy by acting as the natural tooth root. According to a clinical trial published by the British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the clear benefit that dentures retained with implants have over traditional dentures is that they protect against jawbone resorption, which raised the satisfaction rate of patients.

Unlike dental implants, dentures do not mimic the natural tooth root. Nothing triggers mineral delivery to the jaw so that the jawbone will become brittle and weak over time. Since dentures are not anchored in the jaw, bone atrophy is bound to happen.

2. Stability

During dental implant recovery, the bone fuses to the dental implant. This phenomenon is called osseointegration and creates a more stable foundation for prosthetic teeth. Once osseointegration occurs, the implant becomes a fully functioning part of the mouth and can withstand normal chewing forces.

Nevertheless, a chief complaint about dentures is that they tend to move, which can cause ulcers (or sores) to form on the gums.

3. Maintenance

People care for their dental implants similarly to their natural teeth:

  • Twice daily brushing and flossing
  • Twice annual dental checkups

Comparatively, dentures require greater daily maintenance. For example, dentures should be removed and cleaned after meals. Additionally, they must be removed and soaked in water or a cleaning solution overnight.

4. Lifespan

Dental implants are respected as a long-term tooth replacement option. Researchers report that implants have high success rates—in the high 80 to high 90 percentile. It’s important to note that the prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture must be replaced if worn down or damaged.

Generally speaking, dentures can last for a decade or more before replacement. However, the risk of breakage and damage increases with denture age. Professional relining and repairs can help extend the lifespan of dentures. Also, removable dentures change your bite over time, so refitting is necessary.  

Learn More About Dental Implants in Coffs Harbour, NSW

In a nutshell, dental implants and dentures are both suitable options to replace teeth. However, dental implants are superior in:

  • Preventing bone atrophy
  • Steadiness
  • Care
  • Longevity

While both tooth-replacement options have pros and cons, it’s essential to discuss your options in detail with a knowledgeable dentist. Our team educates patients about the benefits of both treatments and helps them decide if dental implants are appropriate for them. Contact us online or call us at (02) 6652-3242 to schedule a free consultation at Magic Smiles Dental at your earliest convenience. 

 

Aug 25
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happy older man sitting at table outside

“Am I too old for dental implants?” and other FAQs

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Tooth replacement is a reality for many seniors. One of the most common types of tooth replacements is dental implants. Many may ask whether they are too old for dental implant surgery. The short answer to that question is no. 

Dr. Arpit Pathak at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre can help you determine dental implant surgery is right for you.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that resemble screws. The implants are inserted into a patient’s mouth and they bond with natural bone. An abutment, or connector, is then placed on top of the implant. This abutment acts as the base for the replacement tooth or “crown” to be placed on top.

Dental implants have become among the strongest, safest, and most successful dentistry procedures around. Their success rate is near 98%.

What are the steps to getting a dental implant?

The process of getting a dental implant occurs in several steps:

  1. Consultation. Your dental professional will examine the implant site, using X-rays or 3D scans, and explain implant options for you. 
  2. Implant installation. At the next appointment, your dentist will insert the implant in your jaw at the site of the missing tooth. Keeping in mind that everyone’s experience differs, most patients say they’ve experienced less pain and discomfort than they expected. Many patients report returning to work the next day. The discomfort experienced post-surgery is like that experienced after other dental surgeries. Swelling, some pain, and minor bleeding are to be expected. Most patients successfully manage the symptoms with over-the-counter medications. The dental surgeon will usually use stitches that self-dissolve. If the dentist uses stitches that do not dissolve on their own, he will remove them for you in a follow-up visit.
  3. Osseointegration. The process by which the jawbone begins to bond with the implant is known as osseointegration. Your dentist may recommend eating only soft foods for several weeks to ensure the success of this phase. Within weeks, most patients can resume their normal eating habits.
  4. Placement of abutments. After the bone and implant have successfully bonded, your dentist will place the abutment on top of the dental implant. The abutment is the connector on top of which the replacement tooth, or crown, will be placed.
  5. New teeth. Once gums are fully healed from the initial surgery, your dentist will custom make your new teeth by taking molds, or impressions, of your mouth. Upon completion, the new restorations are inserted on top of the abutments.

Is implant failure possible?

Most dental implant procedures for seniors are successful. There are cases, however, where osseointegration, or the fusion of the bone with the implant, does not take place. In cases like this, the implant is removed and the procedure can be retried in about three months. Patients may also opt for a dental bridge or denture. 

How do I care for my new implants?

To get the most out of your new implants and help ensure they last a long time the patient can take care of them by:

  • Brushing and flossing regularly, as you would for natural teeth
  • Getting regular checkups at your dental office, as well as regular cleanings
  • Avoiding harmful habits like chewing very hard foods like ice or hard candy

Dental Implants in Coffs Harbour

Dr. Pathak and his team are ready to answer any and all questions you may have about dental implants. Call any of our three convenient locations (Coffs Harbour – (02) 6652-3242 or Woolgoolga – (02) 6654-0650) or schedule a free consultation online today.

Jul 16
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a tooth with a blue arrow

DENTAL IMPLANTS VS. DENTURES: WHICH IS BEST?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Adults need dental implants or dentures for a number of reasons. Poor oral hygiene, untreated gum disease, and heart disease can all lead to tooth loss. Diabetes and COPD are also common culprits. 

Surprisingly, about two-thirds of all senior citizens have gum disease. That’s about 36 million people who are at risk of losing teeth. What’s the solution? 

Dentists work with patients to prevent tooth loss, but if it occurs they have a few solutions. Dental implants are one treatment option, but how do they stack up against dentures? To find out more about these procedures, keep reading. 

DENTAL IMPLANTS: A PERMANENT SOLUTION

Dental implants consist of a post made from titanium, which is implanted in the gums, and a crown made from ceramic or porcelain. There are several steps involved with dental implants. First, the oral surgeon removes the tooth and allows the gums to heal. If necessary, he or she will graft bone into the empty spot in the patient’s gums. 

After this heals, the oral surgeon implants the post in the gums. They may top it with a porcelain or ceramic crown, or use it as an anchor for dental bridges or dentures. With proper care, dental implants can last for 30 years or more. 

Dental implants strengthen the gums and do require a healthy, robust gumline for optimal insertion. They provide a natural-looking, enduring solution to tooth loss. 

The only drawback for some patients is the cost. Dentists may discount multiple implants and they can provide guidance regarding health plans. 

DENTURES: AN AFFORDABLE ALTERNATIVE

Dentures are ideal for patients who have lost several teeth in a row or entire arches. They also work well for patients whose gums cannot support dental implants. Dentures are custom-made, typically from acrylic resin. 

Patients who have remaining healthy teeth may be good candidates for partial dentures. These dentures may be anchored to implants or the patient’s teeth. Often, they are removable. 

Full dentures are another option for patients who have had a full arch removed on the top, bottom, or both. Again, specialists craft natural-looking, custom appliances that help patients talk and chew normally.

The cost of dentures is typically less than that of implants, but dentists can advise as to the final price. 

Whether patients choose dental implants or dentures, the goal is always a healthy mouth and a bright smile. Restoring your teeth can make you feel more confident, boosting your ability to get jobs and make friends. 

It’s always a good time to address your oral health. Even if you haven’t been to a dentist for years, let us help you by starting with a tooth cleaning. We can discuss your smile goals and see if implants or dentures are a viable option.

RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY IN COFFS HARBOUR

Tooth loss happens, but our friendly team at Magic Smiles offers dentures and dental implants that give you a dazzling, natural-looking smile. 

We also offer a wide range of cosmetic procedures including tooth bonding, contouring, and clear Invisalign braces. Adults who wish to improve their smiles are welcome here! We have offices in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour.

It’s never too late to invest in a healthy, full smile. Talk to us about your oral health goals. Contact our experienced team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our dental specialists. 

Jul 09
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Attractive senior man with nice smile

FAQ ABOUT DENTAL IMPLANTS WITH COFFS HARBOUR DENTIST

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Did you know that tooth implants have been around for thousands of years? Bamboo, copper, and iron have all been used to replace missing teeth. Some civilizations even used human or animal teeth, to varying levels of success. 

Nowadays, experienced oral surgeons use titanium dental implants. Your local Coffs Harbour dentist performs dozens of implants each year and is happy to answer commonly asked questions about this procedure. 

With proper care, dental implants can last for more than 30 years. Keep reading to learn more about this attractive, durable solution for missing teeth. 

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants have a 90% to 95% success rate and the surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. Dentists first remove the infected or broken tooth, creating a gap in the gum line. They allow that to heal and may graft in some donor bone if the gum line is not strong enough. Once that heals, it’s time to focus on the implant. 

  • WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS? 

Dental implants are titanium posts that are inserted into the gumline. They strengthen the patient’s gums and, as they heal, integrate themselves into the jaw bone. The titanium bonds with the patient’s bone and does not move around like some dentures. 

Implants are natural-looking and long-lasting solutions for people with one or two missing teeth in a row. Larger gaps may require bridges or dentures. 

  • WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?

People with healthy gums and sufficient jawbone are good candidates for dental implants. If the jaw bone has deteriorated, oral surgeons graft in healthy bone. This supports healing and promotes acceptance of the implant. 

At the time of the implant, patients should be in good physical health. Dentists may need to confer with patients’ doctors in the event of an ongoing physical illness. 

  • WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Depending upon the patient’s preferences, dental implants may be better than traditional dentures or dental bridges. They are permanent, don’t shift around, and look natural. Dentures can be uncomfortable at first, and bridges may require filing down existing teeth. 

Our Coffs Harbour dentist will discuss your options to make sure you’re getting the right procedure. 

  • HOW MUCH DO IMPLANTS COST?

Even though implants cost more than other options, they are an investment in your smile and overall health. Missing teeth diminish oral health and weaken the jawbone, so it’s important to replace them as soon as possible.

Costs for implants vary according to each patient’s health plan, and dentists may be able to discount multiple implants. The operation can be performed with or without general anesthesia for nervous patients or complex cases. Talk to your local Coffs Harbour dentist about what we can do for your smile!

DENTAL IMPLANTS WITH COFFS HARBOUR DENTIST

If you are considering dental implants, the first step is an evaluation and x-ray. Our experienced team at Magic Smiles will determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. We provide gentle dental checkups and will only recommend you for implants if it’s the right next step. 

Patients who are getting implants for a special event, such as a wedding or graduation, should know that implants can take up to six months from the initial exam to the final crown. 

Let’s talk! Contact our friendly team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our dental specialists. 

Jun 17
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coffs implant dentist

Your Coffs Implant Dentist Explains the Implant Process

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

If you are missing a tooth, whether from trauma, extraction, or hypodontia (tooth did not form), it is essential to replace it to restore the function and beauty of your smile. While there are several restorative options, a dental implant is the closest you can get to a natural tooth. It replaces the missing tooth root and is the only permanent option.

Are you considering a dental implant? Your Coffs implant dentist, Dr. Arpit Pathak, explains the procedure for replacing a natural tooth with an implant. Dr. Pathak has extensive training and experience with dental implants.

First, you need a consultation with your implant dentist.

After completing diagnostic imaging and collecting your medical history, your implant dentist will perform a thorough oral exam. He will then determine if you are a candidate for a dental implant.

To be a candidate, you must have adequate jawbone to support the pressures chewing and biting place on the implant. If your jawbone has deteriorated or weakened, you may be able to get a bone graft to build up the jawbone. This, however, requires additional surgery. It also requires a healing period before implant surgery.

If you are a candidate, your dentist will go over your unique needs and goals to create a customized treatment plan. Then, we will discuss sedation options, answer all your questions, and schedule you for surgery.

Before Your Implant Surgery

If you have had a joint replacement or are on medications, discuss this with your implant dentist. You may need to take antibiotics or stop a medication before surgery.

The best way to prepare for implant surgery is to go shopping. Stock up on soft foods for the days following surgery. Cool options, such as ice cream, pudding, yogurt, and applesauce, are good options. Some patients find warm foods more comforting, such as broth, cream soup, oatmeal, or eggs. It’s also a good idea to pick up some small re-freezable ice packs.

If you want sedation for surgery, you may need to arrange for someone to bring you to your appointment.

Implant Surgery Process

Dental implant placement is a minor surgery that has few risks. The most significant risks include discomfort, infection, bleeding, and implant failure, but the success rate of implants is 95%. An implant is a titanium screw that your implant dentist will surgically place into your jawbone.  Actual surgery time is about 20 minutes.

Most patients need only local anesthesia, but you may choose another option, such as laughing gas or oral sedation. Once you are comfortable and numb, your implant dentist will make a small incision in your gum line where the implant will go.

Next, he will screw the titanium implant into your jawbone. Titanium is compatible with human tissue and will not rust or corrode.

Once the implant is in place, your dentist will close the site with a few tiny, dissolvable stitches.

After Dental Implant Surgery

You may be asked to continue biting down on gauze to keep the bleeding at a minimum. Sometimes it is necessary to continue doing this for several hours after surgery, and you may need to change the gauze. Your dental team will go over this with you in more detail.

Avoid drinking and eating anything while your mouth is still numb to keep from injuring the surgical site. When the numbness wears off, it is best to stick with soft foods for a couple of days.

Ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications should keep your swelling and discomfort tolerable. If not, there may be something unexpected occurring, and you should call your implant dentist to let him know.

If needed, your dentist may prescribe a special mouth rinse or an antibiotic for you to take. If so, be sure to follow the directions and complete the antibiotics.

Good oral hygiene is essential for the healing process and to avoid infection. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush and floss gently but effectively.

Dental Implant Healing Process

Titanium attracts bone cells and encourages new bone growth around the implant in a process called osseointegration. This process fuses the implant to your jawbone, holding it securely in place. However, it will take about three to six months for this to occur, so you will have to wait for complete restoration of the tooth.

Once the implant is a permanent part of your jawbone, your dentist can complete your new tooth.

Your implant dentist will top it off.

A dental implant replaces the tooth root, but not the visible part (crown). Therefore, completing your dental restoration may involve a crown, a bridge, or permanent dentures.

A connector, called an abutment, is placed on the implant. Depending on your treatment plan, we may get impressions at this time for fabrication of your restoration. You may also get a temporary to fill in the gap while waiting for your permanent device.

Once your crown, bridge, or denture is completed, your implant dentist will connect it to the abutment and cement it in place.

Looking for an implant dentist?

If you are in the Coffs Harbour area, the dentists at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Center have the experience, skills, and technology you want. And we can take care of all the steps, including completing your restoration with a crown, bridge, or denture.

Call (02) 6652-3242 today to schedule your implant consultation and examination.

Apr 26
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female patient receiving tooth crown

Everything You Need to Know about Getting a Tooth Crown

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Sometimes a tooth is so badly decayed or damaged that it can’t be repaired with a simple filling. In these cases, a tooth crown may be necessary to restore your oral health, function, and appearance. Our team of dentists at Magic Smiles create custom dental crowns that blend in with your smile for natural results.

If you are considering a dental crown, there are several things you may be wondering. Our team is here to answer your questions and tell you everything you need to know about dental crown treatment.

When is a tooth crown recommended?

Dental crowns may be recommended for a number of reasons. This type of restoration can be used to:

  • Repair a decayed tooth
  • Strengthen a weakened tooth
  • Restore a broken tooth
  • Cover cosmetic imperfections, such as chips or stains
  • Restore a dental implants
  • Protect a tooth that has been treated with root canal therapy

Am I a candidate for a tooth crown?

If you have a decayed or damaged tooth, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. To be eligible for this type of treatment, you must be in good oral health, free from periodontal disease and other serious dental issues. During a consultation at Magic Smiles, your dentist will perform a comprehensive oral examination to ensure that a dental crown is right for you. If you have extensive damage, you may be better suited for alternative treatments, such as an extraction and dental implant. We will recommend the most conservative treatment possible to keep your oral health on track.

Dental Crown Treatment Process

Many patients ask us what to expect when receiving a dental crown. In most cases, the procedure requires at least two office visits. During the first appointment, your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the affected tooth. This prepares the tooth so that it can serve as an anchor for your new restoration. Once this step is complete, we will take dental impressions of your smile. These impressions are then sent to our partner dental lab, where a technician will design your crown.

Your final dental crown will be delivered to our office once it is ready. Next, we’ll schedule you for a second visit at our practice. At this appointment, your dentist will try in your new crown to ensure that the fit and color are correct. After making some minor adjustments, your new tooth crown will be permanently cemented into place.

Dental Crown Recovery

After having a tooth crown placed, you may notice some slight, temporary sensitivity. These side effects are normal and should subside in a few days. Most patients can resume normal activity and function the same day.

Though the area may be slightly tender, be sure to keep it clean. Brush and floss normally, and use an antibacterial rinse to reduce the risk of complications.

Preserving Your New Smile

To keep your new dental crown looking and feeling its best, you’ll need to follow the recommendations set forth by the Magic Smiles team. For example:

  • Practice good oral hygiene.
  • Avoid sticky or hard foods.
  • Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth.
  • Visit your dentist regularly.

Learn more about tooth crowns at Magic Smiles.

If you think you may need a tooth crown, schedule a visit at our Coffs Harbour dental office, also serving Woolgoolga. Contact us online anytime.

Apr 08
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3d render of parts of dental implants

What are dental implants and who needs them?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Patients who have one or more missing teeth may be eligible for dental implants. This innovative dental restoration is the only one that replaces the entire tooth, not just the crown. A dental implant is made from biocompatible materials that are safe and durable. The implant itself resembles a screw. During the dental implant procedure, this screw-like rod is carefully and methodically placed into the jawbone where the new tooth goes.

Dental implants can also be used to replace several missing teeth in a row or an entire arch of missing teeth. In these cases, dentists may only use a few dental implants. For example, to replace an entire arch, the dentist may only need to use four implants to effectively support a denture.

Continue reading to learn about the pros and cons of dental implants and who is eligible for this procedure.

The Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

When it comes to choosing a tooth replacement option, it’s important to know all the details. To help patients grasp the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants, we’ll compare them to bridges and dentures.

The benefits of dental implants include:

  • Stability. Dental implants anchor directly to the jawbone and fuse together through a process called osseointegration.
  • No damage to healthy teeth. With a dental bridge, dentists make permanent alterations to the abutment teeth that may lead to weakened teeth over time.
  • Promote a healthy jawbone. Tooth roots promote jawbone regeneration. So, when a tooth goes missing the opposite happens—the jawbone begins to deteriorate. Thankfully, the bone will grow back once an implant is placed.
  • As stated earlier, dental implants can be attached to several restorations, including crowns, bridges, and dentures.
  • With proper care and hygiene, dental implants can last a lifetime.

The disadvantages of implants include:

  • Long treatment process. For some patients, the entire dental implant process takes 18 months, but it can be as little as 6 months.
  • Dental bridges and dentures do not require any type of surgery to place.
  • Possibility of complications. There is always a possibility of complications or infection when a person undergoes surgery. However, the dental implant procedure is nearly 100 percent successful.
  • Not suitable for everyone. Unfortunately, dental implants aren’t an option for everyone. Continue reading to learn about the candidacy requirements for dental implant patients.

Reasons and Qualifications for Dental Implants

You may need dental implants if you have one or more missing teeth, are suffering from jawbone atrophy, or need a dental extraction.

Patients who are eligible for the dental implant procedure must have these qualities:

  1. Sufficient jawbone density. Once a tooth is lost, the jawbone deteriorates. To place an implant, the bone must be dense enough to support it. In cases where the jawbone isn’t, the dentist may recommend a bone graft.
  2. Good oral and overall health. Surgery requires patients to be in good overall health as conditions like heart disease and diabetes can lead to complications. Patients must also be free of cavities and gum disease that can infect the surgical site.
  3. Healthy lifestyle habits. Consuming too much alcohol and using tobacco products can affect the blood’s ability to clot, slow blood flow, and interfere with your immune system.
  4. Fully developed jawbone. Children and teens are not candidates for dental implants because the jawbone is not fully developed. However, implants may become an option once they are adults.

Dental Implants in Woolgoolga

Interested in dental implants? Our experienced and compassionate dentists at Magic Smiles are ready to help you gain and maintain a healthy beautiful smile. Contact our office today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation.

Mar 19
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3d render of jaw with a dental bridge

What are the greatest benefits of a dental bridge?

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Missing teeth contribute to all kinds of oral and overall health issues, such as poor digestion, further tooth loss, gum disease, cavities, and poor nutrition. That’s why dentists offer several restorative solutions for tooth loss. Choosing a dental restoration can be a tough decision, but with all the information, the choice can be much easier!

If you have one, two, or three missing teeth in a row, you may be a candidate for a dental bridge. This modern and effective restorative dental device provides patients with incredible benefits. Continue reading to learn what those benefits are.

1. Restored function

Just one or several missing teeth in a row makes chewing and speaking much more difficult. Patients with missing teeth often suffer from digestive issues from not being able to properly break-down their food. A speech impediment may also become apparent.

These teeth must be replaced with a stable, life-like restoration that fills in the gap and provides strength and stability.

Dental bridges do all three! Once the dental bridge is placed, patients can expect to speak and eat just like before.

2. Higher self-confidence

Many people who have experienced tooth loss suffer from low self-esteem that inhibits them from trying new things, taking risks, and meeting new people. In this way, missing teeth also have a negative impact on mental health and overall wellness.

Our dental team is in the business of restoring oral, overall, AND mental health by creating beautiful and functional restorations.

3. Lower risk of tooth movement

When a tooth falls out and isn’t replaced, the adjacent teeth will eventually try to fill in the gap. This may result in small spaces between all of the teeth or larger gaps between some teeth. As a result, patients may require orthodontics along with a dental bridge.

4. Easy maintenance

Dental bridges are a low-maintenance tooth-replacement option when compared to dentures. Proper brushing and flossing are an essential part of every oral hygiene routine, but especially for people who have experienced tooth loss and have dental restorations. In addition to this, patients should floss above their dental bridge, between the gums and prosthetic tooth where food particles can easily become lodged, and plaque can build up.

Dentures require much more cleaning and care because they are removable.

5. Speedy treatment process

The process for receiving dental implants can take up to 18 months while the patient waits for his or her mouth to heal. For dental bridges, the entire process takes only two appointments within a month.

During treatment for a dental bridge, the dentist removes a small amount of enamel from the teeth next to the gap. Then, the dentist takes digital images of the patient’s mouth and uses that to design a custom-made bridge. The bridge is sent to a dental lab technician who carefully crafts the bridge. In the meantime, a temporary bridge is placed. Finally, the permanent denture arrives at the dentist’s office, and the dentist secures it in the patient’s mouth.

Dental Bridge in Woolgoolga

Ready to restore your smile back to healthy, function, and beauty? Our professional and compassionate dental team is prepared to help! At Magic Smiles, oral health is our top priority because we know the impact it has on overall health and wellness.

Contact our friendly dental team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation.

Feb 20
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3d render of teeth with different types of dental crown

“Who needs a tooth crown?” and other FAQs

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Dental crowns are a common solution for all types of dental problems. Have a cracked tooth? Have multiple damaged teeth because of teeth grinding? Need a dental bridge? A tooth crown can restore one or more teeth in all of these situations. Patients who have cavities too large for fillings, need a root canal, or have a weakened tooth may also need a dental crown.

Continue reading to learn about the purpose and particulars of tooth crowns.

Is there more than one type of tooth crown?

Dental crowns can be made from several materials, including:

  • Metal
  • Porcelain
  • Ceramic
  • Zirconia
  • Composite resin
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
  • Other combinations of materials

Additionally, there are temporary crowns, same-day crowns, and onlays. Temporary tooth crowns are typically made from an acrylic-based material or stainless steel. Same-day crowns are permanent crowns that are created in-office with CAD/CAM technology. Onlays are also called ¾ crowns and only cover a portion of a tooth.

Be sure to talk with your dentist about the advantages and disadvantages of each type of dental crown.

How is a dental crown placed?

For a traditional dental crown, dentists usually require two appointments: one to prepare the tooth and one to place the crown.

The first appointment includes an x-ray, taking a mold of the mouth, shaving down the tooth, and placing a temporary crown.

During the final appointment, the dentist places the custom-made, permanent dental crown using a dental bonding material.

Are there any alternatives to a crown?

Tooth crowns do their jobs so well that there is only one other option for certain situations. For example, a tooth that is discolored or only cosmetically damaged may be a candidate for a veneer which only covers the front surface of the tooth. A dental veneer will prevent the chip or crack from spreading to the inner part or root of the tooth.

How much does a tooth crown cost?

According to colgate.com, a tooth crown can cost between $1100 and $2000. Factors that affect the cost of a tooth crown include:

  • Where you live
  • The dentist you choose
  • The dental crown material
  • Size of the crown
  • Necessary prep work

Talk to your dentist about their payment options as well as how much of the cost would be covered by insurance.

How do I care for a dental crown?

Once a tooth crown has been placed, it doesn’t require any special care. So long as you practice proper oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly, the crown should remain healthy and successful.

Here’s what we mean by “proper oral hygiene”:

  • Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss at least once a day
  • Consume a healthy diet
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Quit smoking or chewing tobacco
  • Avoid crunchy or hard foods

Some patients with tooth crowns experience dental sensitivity. If you experience this, try using a toothpaste for sensitivity or talk to your dentist about other options to reduce the discomfort.

For More Information About Tooth Crowns

Not sure if you need a dental crown? Have more questions? Our team at Magic Smiles in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour are prepared to meet your needs. We’ll only recommend a dental crown if you absolutely need one and provide other solutions if necessary. Contact us today at one of our convenient locations to schedule an appointment.