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coffs harbour dentist Archives - Page 2 of 4 - Magic Smiles Dental

Apr 20
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Common Questions about Teeth Whitening in Coffs Harbour

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

If you are looking to enhance the look of your smile, there are many cosmetic dentistry treatments to choose from. However, teeth whitening in Coffs Harbour is one of the fastest and most conservative options available. Quickly erasing mild to moderate external staining, teeth whitening can have a dramatic effect on your appearance. 

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we are proud to offer Zoom!, the leading method of teeth whitening. With both in-office and take-home treatments available, you are sure to find something that fits your lifestyle and budget. 

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and find out if teeth whitening is right for you.

Am I a candidate for teeth whitening in Coffs Harbour?

If you struggle with extrinsic dental stains, located on the outer surfaces of your teeth, you are likely a candidate for teeth whitening. Note that Zoom does not remove internal stains, which are often the result of decay, trauma, or certain medications. If you wish to address this type of discoloration, you are a better candidate for bonding or porcelain veneers.

Will in-office whitening work better than take-home treatment?

During in-office Zoom, your dentist will coat your teeth in peroxide whitening gel, which will break down stains. During take-home treatment, you will wear custom-made trays filled with a similar gel, though one with a lower concentration of peroxide. 

In-office Zoom can lighten your teeth by as many as 8 shades in a single office visit. Take-home treatment can also have noticeable results, but they will not be immediate. Typically, you will need to wear your whitening trays 30 minutes a day for about two weeks. 

Note that take-home Zoom, which is provided by your dentist, is much more effective than do-it-yourself treatments. More importantly, it could be safer. Some store bought whitening products have excessive levels of peroxide, which could cause sensitivity or even damage your teeth.

Does whitening hurt?

Whitening may cause some minor sensitivity during treatment. This may linger for a few days afterwards, especially in response to heat or cold. Monitoring your diet and using over-the-counter pain medication can reduce sensitivity. 

If you already suffer from dental sensitivity, be sure to let your dentist know ahead of time. That way, he or she can take appropriate steps to limit additional discomfort.

How long do results last?

Professional teeth whitening results typically last several years. Of course, this will depend on your oral health and lifestyle. Fortunately, it is safe to undergo repeat teeth whitening in Coffs Harbour, with the appropriate supervision of your dentist.

How can I make my results last longer?

Aside from routine dental hygiene, being vigilant about your diet is one of the best ways to prolong your teeth whitening results. Dark-colored foods and drinks, like coffee, red wine, and tomato products, are notorious for causing dental stains. Acidic products, such as soda and citrus, can also lead to discoloration by eroding tooth enamel. Enjoy these things moderately, and be sure to brush and floss afterwards. 

You should also avoid smoking and tobacco use. 

Contact Us to Learn More about Our Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments 

If you are interested in teeth whitening in Coffs Harbour, contact our office today! We are happy to answer any additional questions and explain our other cosmetic treatments, if desired. 

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

Feb 27
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Close-up of a lipsticked mouth with white teeth and red gums enjoying a piece of chewing gum

Have red gums? Here’s what it could be.

By Dental Checkup No Comments

While redness in the gums can be normal in some cases, persistent redness can indicate an underlying problem. Indeed, red gums can indicate a range of dental and medical conditions. Routine checkups with a trusted dentist can help you pinpoint the cause of red, inflamed, or bloody gums.

 

Are you suddenly noticing darker gums accompanied by pain or sensitivity? If so, then it’s time to contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. We can help you locate the cause to get speedy and effective treatments. Simply contact one of our two locations in Woolgoolga or Coffs Harbour, NSW, to get started now!

 

Swollen and dark gums can be a medical mystery. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to narrow down the diagnosis. Here are some of the most common reasons why a patient might have red gums.

Red Gums Might be Gingivitis

One of the most common reasons for red gums is gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease (also called periodontitis) that occurs when tissue-destroying plaque builds up along the gum line. The bacteria in the plaque can cause inflammation, which can lead to noticeably dark, swollen, and bleeding gums. 

 

Fortunately, gingivitis is just the beginning stage of periodontitis. This means that, if caught early enough, patients can completely reverse gingivitis. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to advanced periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss.

Inflamed Gums Could be Advancing Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease. The infection (which starts out as mild gingivitis) spreads to the ligaments and bone that support the teeth. 

 

As a result, advancing periodontitis can present with:

  • Purple or dark red gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gum tissue
  • Bone loss in the jaw
  • Loose teeth
  • Prolonged tooth loss
  • Changes in bite patterns

If you suspect that you might have periodontitis, it’s important to see a dentist or periodontist right away. Leaving periodontitis untreated could lead to significant damage that may be more costly to repair.

Vitamin Deficiencies Can Cause Red Gums

A lack of certain vitamins (such as vitamin C or vitamin K) can cause red gums. Vitamin C is important for healthy gum tissue, and a deficiency can cause the gums to become:

  • Tender
  • Inflamed
  • Prone to bleeding

 

Vitamin K is necessary for blood clotting, so a deficiency can make healing much more difficult. And, when it comes to red gums, healing is key.

 

If vitamin deficiencies are the main cause of red gums, then we suggest taking a daily multivitamin. Adding supplements to your diet ensures that you are getting the recommended amount of essential nutrients every day.

Expectant Mothers May Develop Sore Gums

Research suggests that pregnancy can cause hormonal changes in the body that can lead to red gums. The hormone that is largely to blame is progesterone.

 

Elevated levels of progesterone can cause the gums to become more sensitive to plaque and bacteria, which can lead to inflammation and redness. Medical professionals refer to this as ‘pregnancy gingivitis,’ and it usually goes away shortly after delivery.

Investigate Red Gums with a General Dentist in NSW

These are just four common reasons why patients see dark, swollen gums. Other reasons may include allergic reactions, medications, and injury. If you’re experiencing swollen or painful gums, then contact the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre immediately. We can help you diagnose the cause and get rapid treatment.

Request your appointment now by submitting a secure message here.

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

Dentists in Coffs Harbour Review Advancements in Dental Technology

By Oral Health No Comments

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

 

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

 

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

Digital Oral Impressions

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Digital X-Rays

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

 

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

 

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

Soft Tissue Lasers

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

 

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

Schedule an Appointment with Our Dentists in Coffs Harbour

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

 

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

 

Sep 19
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5 Surprising Facts about Baby Teeth from Your Children’s Dentistry Provider

By Dental Checkup No Comments

Teething is a milestone for every baby and parent. Though it doesn’t seem possible, as your child’s gummy smile transforms into a toothy grin, he becomes cuter than ever before. Unfortunately, children’s dentistry is not discussed as frequently as other topics, like feeding and sleep. Many parents, for instance, are not aware that babies should have dental checkups as soon as their first teeth appear.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we proudly provide quality care for patients of all ages. 

Read on to learn some fascinating and little-known facts about baby teeth. Then contact us to schedule an appointment for your child.

1. Teeth Are One of the First Things to Grow in the Womb.

While the heartbeat is one of the first developments for an unborn baby, the growth of baby teeth is not far behind. Teeth begin forming as early as six week’s gestation. At this time, dental lamina form tooth buds, which will later grow into teeth. Around 3 to 4 months in utero, hard tissue begins to form. 

When a baby is born, she already has all 20 baby teeth below the gum line! 

2. Some Babies Are Born with Teeth.

In about 1 out of every 2,000 to 3,000 births, babies are born with teeth. These are called natal teeth and are most often normal teeth that have simply erupted early. They can, however, cause complications with nursing, and they may be weaker than teeth that develop on a more regular timeline. But sometimes they cause no complications whatsoever.

3. Some Babies Have Extra Teeth.

3.8% of the population is born with hyperdontia, a condition that causes extra teeth to develop. Many times, only a dental professional can diagnose hyperdontia in infants since the extra teeth tend to look normal and align with the rest of the teeth. Nonetheless, it is important to diagnose this condition, as it can cause problems with normal dental alignment and development.

4. Baby Teeth Are More Susceptible to Cavities Than Adult Teeth.

Enamel forms the outer layer of teeth and helps to prevent cavities. In babies, however, the enamel layer is thinner, meaning children are more prone to tooth decay than their parents! In fact, 42% of Australian children have experienced decay in their baby teeth.

5. Baby Teeth Play an Important Role in the Development of Adult Teeth.

Baby teeth act as placeholders for adult teeth. If your child loses teeth too early, they could suffer from pronounced misalignment later down the road. In addition, children who experience dental decay are more likely to develop cavities as adults. 

This is why early dental care is so vital. To prevent cavities, brush your little one’s teeth twice a day, and begin flossing as soon as she has two teeth that touch. You should also begin biannual dental checkups no later than age one, or whenever teeth start to come in, whichever comes first. 

Schedule an Appointment with a Children’s Dentistry Expert

To learn more about baby teeth and to protect your favorite little smile, contact our practice today.

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

By Oral Health No Comments

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

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

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

When does a baby start teething? 

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

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

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

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

What are the symptoms of teething? 

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

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

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

How can I ease my child’s discomfort? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

When should my baby visit the dentist?

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

Schedule an Appointment with Compassionate Dentists in Coffs Harbour

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

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

By Oral Health No Comments

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

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

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

1. Someone who can treat the whole family

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

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

2. A practice that performs comprehensive services

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

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

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

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

3. A practice with specialists in house

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

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

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

4. An office that offers sedation

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

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

5. Friendly dentists who make you feel at home

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

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

Contact Us for Outstanding Dentists in New South Wales, Australia 

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

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

 

May 05
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woman smiling after cosmetic dentistry services

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Change Your Life

By Cosmetic Dentistry No Comments

Your smile plays a much more significant role in your life than you might believe. Smiling more can positively impact your mood, relationships, and even success. When you feel content about how your smile looks, you’ll probably want to smile more. Still, cosmetic dentistry is the field of dentistry that exists for those who want to enhance the way their smile looks. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on positive aesthetic changes, including whitening, straightening, and shaping the teeth.

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our talented dental team provides comprehensive cosmetic dentistry services at our Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW locations. Message us online today if you’re unsatisfied with your smile when you look in the mirror.

Although having healthy teeth and gums should be prioritized, addressing shortcomings that detract from your smile’s appearance is also valuable. Outside of improving aesthetics, here are several ways that investing in cosmetic dentistry can benefit your life and might make you smile more:

Straightening your smile impacts your dental health.

Beyond beauty concerns, uncorrected alignment of the teeth and jaws can pose health problems. Generally, overcrowded teeth are more prone to trauma and are abnormal enamel wear. Additionally, crooked teeth can contribute to poor oral hygiene, tooth decay, and periodontal disease since they are more challenging to clean. If your teeth or bite are misaligned, starting orthodontic treatment (for example, Invisalign®) may be a worthy venture.

Cosmetic dentistry can be a step towards a healthier lifestyle.

Cosmetic dentistry is an investment, and it’s sensible to proactively protect your investment. To prolong the effects of cosmetic dentistry treatments, you may be keener to kick the bad habits holding your smile back.

For example, it’s no secret that using tobacco stains your teeth. If you want to keep your dramatic, professional teeth whitening results for as long as possible, you may not be as tempted to smoke or chew tobacco products.

Improving the way your smile looks may improve your mental and physical health.

Taking pride in a sparkling smile can cause a ripple effect on your overall well-being. Theoretically and empirically, self-esteem is associated with mental and physical health. Research indicates that positive self-esteem is linked to happiness, adjustment, satisfaction, and even better recovery after severe disease.

Scientifically, smiling makes you feel good.

According to Ron Gutman, the author of “Smile: The Astonishing Powers of a Simple Act,” investigators discovered that one smile can produce the same level of neurological stimulation as up to 2,000 chocolate bars. Simply, the act of smiling releases dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin that signal to your body that you’re happy and make you feel happier.

Smiling more might make you live a longer life.

If you’re happy and you know it, you might live longer. While many studies focus on positivity, smiling, and lifespan, let’s focus on one. After studying an old baseball team photo, American scientists concluded a seven-year average lifespan difference between big smilers and non-smilers in this specific photo.

See How Our Cosmetic Dentists Can Help You Smile More

Self-care isn’t selfish. If you want to finally feel better about your smile, set up a cosmetic dentistry consultation at any of our Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre sites by messaging us online or calling:

  •       Woolgoolga, NSW (02) 6654-0650
  •       Coffs Harbour, NSW (02) 6652-3242
Apr 07
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image of cancerous and healthy cells under a microscope

Our Coffs Harbor Dentist Explains How to Prevent and Treat Oral Cancer

By Dental Checkup No Comments

Do you have a sore or new growth in your mouth that won’t resolve itself? If so, it is worth scheduling an appointment with your dentist in Coffs Harbor. Sadly, a sore that lingers for more than a few weeks is one of the most common signs of oral cancer. Oral cancer happens when cancerous cells form in the mouth or the oropharynx (the part of the throat at the back of the mouth).

In this comprehensive guide to oral cancer, Dr. Pathak goes over how to prevent oral cancer, treat it, and ways that survivors can improve their quality of life after beating cancer.

Prevention

Good news! Oral cancer can be avoided, and people have an active role in avoiding it. People are more likely to survive oral cancer with early detection. Learning the warning signs and going to routine oral cancer screenings can help you prevent this potentially life-threatening condition.

Learn the Warning Signs of Oral Cancer

You can detect oral cancer with monthly self-examination. If you notice any unusual differences in your mouth, throat, or neck, speak with your dentist immediately.

Routine Oral Cancer Screenings

Being mindful about early oral cancer detection could save your life. Early detection can dramatically increase long-term survival rates. For these reasons, Dr. Pathak recommends oral cancer screenings:

  •       Every three years for adults over 20
  •       Every year for patients over 40

At our Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centres scattered across New South Wales, we use VELscope® during oral cancer screenings. VELscope is a non-invasive yet powerful device that can identify oral mucosal abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.

Oral Cancer Treatment

The goal of cancer treatment is to cure cancer so that patients can live longer. Here are some treatments to consider if you have oral cancer:

Radiation

Radiation therapy uses intense energy beams to destroy and restrict the growth of cancerous cells.

Chemotherapy

In a nutshell, chemotherapy involves using anti-cancer drugs to kill cancer cells.

Surgery

While there are many surgeries for oral cancer, the commonality among all surgeries is to remove cancerous tissue.

Life After Oral Cancer

Congratulations! You’ve beaten cancer. If this sounds like it applies to you, you may be interested in medical procedures and therapies intended to improve your quality of life:

Periodontal and Restorative Dentistry

As previously mentioned, some people opt for chemo and radiation to fight cancer. Although often lifesaving, this type of therapy can damage the salivary glands and oral tissue lining and cause a slew of oral health problems, like:

  •       Dry mouth
  •       Tooth decay
  •       Periodontal disease
  •       Tooth loss

Consequently, patients with oral cancer may need additional dental services to protect and improve their oral health.

Reconstructive Surgery

A common misconception is that oral cancer can only exist in your mouth. However, cancerous cells can metastasize, which means they can spread from the mouth to other parts of the body. If oral cancer metastasizes, surgeons can reconstruct tissue, bones, and nerves so that the body can return to as normal as possible.

Voice Restoration Services

If a laryngectomy is medically necessary, an oral cancer patient may opt for voice restoration services two weeks after surgery. With the power of speech therapy and speech aids (for example, an electrolarynx), people can speak to their loved ones again.

Meet with Our Team for Oral Cancer Screening and More

If it’s time for an oral cancer screening, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment. Call (02) 6652-3242 or message 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
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: