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coffs harbour dentist Archives - Page 3 of 4 - Magic Smiles Dental

Nov 05
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modern dentist's office

Meet Our Team!

By Woolgoogla and Coffs Harbour Dentist No Comments

Are you looking for comprehensive dental services for the entire family in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW? Look no further. At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our talented team of cheerful and conscientious dental professionals is eager to go the extra mile for your family’s smiles. Continue reading to meet our knowledgable, ethical general dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeon, and denture prosthetist.

Dr. Arpit Pathak, General Dentist

With a widespread, well-rounded background in public health, research, and dentistry, Dr. Pathak cares for our patients by applying sophisticated dentistry techniques and technology.

Dr. Pathak speaks Hindi (as well as English).

Dr. Devendra Rao, General Dentist

After decades of lecturing and working as a general dentist in both the private and public sectors, Dr. Devendra Rao has settled in our local community to provide patient care. Dr. Rao stays family with contemporary treatment, equipment, and materials by attending conferences, hands-on workshops, personal study, and visiting consultants.

Dr. Rao speaks Hindi (as well as English).

Dr. Aashish Kaphle, General Dentist

With over a decade of experience, Dr. Aashish Kaphle offers all aspects of general dentistry, particularly interested in minor oral surgery and root canal treatments. Dr. Kaphle finds passion in understanding the most advanced progressions in general dentistry, orthodontics, and cosmetic dentistry. 

Dr. Kaphle speaks Hindi and Nepali (as well as English).

Dr. Tiffany Huang, Orthodontist

Dr. Tiffany Huang is responsible for helping our patients obtain their best smiles. Over the past 24 years, she has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience, as well as an outstanding education:

  • Bachelor of Science (Honours): The University of Western Australia
  • Bachelor of Dentistry: The University of Sydney

After receiving two bachelor’s degrees, she took a step further and accomplished a double doctorate from the University of Sydney:

  • Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Orthodontics)
  • Expertise in Orthodontic Research (Ph.D.)

Today, she is enthusiastic and dedicated to treating patients of all ages with approachability and ethics.

Dr. Huang speaks Hokkien and Mandarin (as well as English).

Dr. Mohammed Mansour, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

With a background in ENT, Dr. Mohammed Mansour extended his education to chase his passion: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Since graduating from Sydney University with an Honours Degree, being awarded the prize for competency, and completing maxillofacial specialist training, Dr. Mansour performs all aspects of oral and maxillofacial surgery and educates dentists-in-training and general dentists about his specialty.

Harry Ramana, Denture Prosthetist 

With extensive experience in American, Canadian, and Australian dental labs, Harry Ramana provides all dentures services for our patients. In 2008, Ramana completed his training in dental technology and continued his courses at Sydney Dental Hospital four years later to become a certified dental prosthetist. 

Ramana works alongside our dentists to: 

  • Take impressions for patients
  • Fabricate brand new full and partial dentures
  • Repair and reline existing dentures to extend their lifespan.

To stay on top of his craft, Harry Ramana continues his education through dental conferences.

Meet our Dentists in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our family of dental professionals are here to help your own family achieve a healthier, more radiant smile. To meet with our dedicated team, contact us online or call one of our many New South Wales offices:

  • Coffs Harbour: (02) 6652-3242
  • Woolgoolga: (02) 6654-0650
Oct 31
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image of small holes and stains in teeth which are cavities symptoms

Cavities Symptoms & Treatments

By Oral Health No Comments

Cavities are holes in the teeth that form from tooth decay. Although prevalence varies across Australian states and territories, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimates that 42% of children between the ages of 5 and 10 have cavities in their baby teeth. Even though many people associate cavities as a childhood health obstacle, it’s a more prevalent problem in adults. Tooth decay affects over 90% of the Australian adult population. 

Because of the widespread prevalence, you may be wondering, “How can I tell if I have a cavity? How do dentists treat cavities?” Below, we answer these questions and more.

What are the common symptoms of cavities?

Plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) constantly forms on the teeth. When people eat or drink foods with sugar or carbohydrates, they feed the oral bacteria in plaque. Consequently, the bacteria excrete acids that destroy the tooth enamel (the hard surface of the teeth). If not removed, the enamel breaks down and forms holes in the teeth (cavities).

If you believe that you or your loved one may have tooth decay, below are three common cavity symptoms to keep an eye out for:

1. Discomfort

Even though cavities do not usually cause pain until they are deep enough to affect the underlying nerves and tissues, a toothache is one of the most apparent symptoms. Discomfort can fluctuate from mild to intolerable. Also, toothaches can come abruptly, continuously, or promptly when biting, chewing, or eating.

2. Sensitivity

Below the enamel, the dentin has two roles (1) to reinforce the tooth’s enamel and (2) to protect the pulp chamber that houses the blood vessels and nerves deep inside the tooth. As the enamel erodes, the dentin is more exposed, and the dental nerves are more stimulated. As a result, sensitivity may occur after consuming food and drinks that are too hot, cold, acidic, sweet, or sticky.

3. Enamel Changes

As cavity-causing bacteria chemically changes the tooth, there may be changes of appearance:

  • Staining: White, brown, or black spots are the beginning visual signs of tooth decay. As the spots worsen, they become darker (brown or black) and more extensive.
  • Holes and pits: As staining advances, it can change into a hole or pit in the tooth. They may be noticeable by sight or felt when the tongue is run over the surface of the teeth. Sometimes, they may be difficult to see or feel if they are in ridges on the molars (the back of the mouth) or between the teeth.

How do dentists treat cavities?

While cavities may start small and unnoticeable, they rapidly expand when left untreated. After a dentist removes the decayed tissues, they may restore the tooth with a dental filling or crown.

If you are experiencing cavities symptoms, contact us now.

Many people are unaware of when a cavity forms. However, a dentist can identify tooth decay before it causes alarming symptoms that lead to more severe challenges with regular check-ups. At Magic Smiles Dental, Dr. Arpit Pathak offers a wide range of treatments to prevent and heal tooth decay for patients of all ages.

If you or your loved one are experiencing any of the listed cavity symptoms, we advise that you seek care immediately. The sooner that you seek care, the greater your odds are at preventing tooth decay progression. To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call one of our many New South Wales locations:

  • Woolgoolga: (02) 6654-0650
  • Coffs Harbour: (02) 6652-3242
Oct 21
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Tooth Crown Cost by Type

Tooth Crown Cost Based On Type

By Restorative Dentistry No Comments

Dental crowns are caps that are placed over a damaged tooth. They are an effective way to repair a broken or worn tooth and restore a natural-looking, healthy smile. The cost of a dental crown depends on many factors including the extent of damage to the tooth being repaired, the size of the crown needed, and which tooth it is that requires the crown. Perhaps the largest factor in determining the cost of a dental crown is the material it is made from.  

Common Types of Dental Crowns and Their Costs

1. Zirconia. Zirconia crowns are widely regarded as the best material for dental crowns on the market. They are made from zirconium dioxide, a durable metal closely related to titanium. The major advantage of Zirconia implants is their strength. They do not chip or fracture as easily as porcelain or ceramic crowns. They are also considered to be biocompatible because they integrate well with the gums and other teeth.

Because of these advantages, Zirconia crowns can be quite pricey. They range in price from $1,000 to $2,500 per crown. 

2. Ceramic crowns. The major advantage to crowns constructed of ceramic is that because they are made of porcelain they match almost identically to the look and translucency of natural teeth. Because of these aesthetic advantages, ceramic crowns are usually used as crowns for front teeth.

The average cost of a ceramic crown can range from $800 to $3,000.

3. Metal crowns. There are several variations of metal crowns. The metals most often used to construct metal crowns are gold and copper. Other types of crowns require the removal of natural tooth structure before placement. Metal crowns are an attractive alternative because they require the least amount of natural tooth removal. Due to their color, however, metal crowns stand out the most and so are often used on rear teeth.

The average cost of a gold crown is $600 to $2,500.

4. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. As the name implies, these types of crowns are constructed from a combination of porcelain and metal. Porcelain fuses with metal during the heating process to create a bond. This creates a crown that is stronger than regular porcelain because it has a large concentration of metal, but one that closely matches the look of natural teeth because of the color characteristics of porcelain. This unique combination of benefits makes porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns an attractive option.

The average cost of a porcelain-fused-to metal crown is $500 to $1,500.

5. Resin crowns. Because resin is a thinner material, crowns made from it tend to be more fragile than crowns made of either metal or porcelain. They are more affordable than metal or ceramic crowns, but because they are more prone to fracture and wear, they are not recommended very often by dentists. Resin crowns are most often used on baby teeth rather than adult or permanent teeth.

The average cost of a resin crown is $600 to $1,300.

6. Stainless steel crowns. Crowns made from stainless steel are usually used as temporary ones while a permanent crown is being created. Like crowns made from metal, they are very durable but do not blend in well with natural tooth color.

The average cost of a stainless steel crown is $300 to $500 per tooth.

Superior Dental Crown Treatment in Coffs Harbour

Regardless of your needs or budget, Dr. Pathak and the expert team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Center can design quality dental crown treatment for you. Call (02) 6652-3242

or schedule an appointment online today to begin your consultation.

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

 

Oct 10
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How to Find the Best “Dentist Near Me” in Australia

By Woolgoogla and Coffs Harbour Dentist No Comments

With hundreds of local options available, finding the right dentist can be a daunting task. Conducting an online search for “dentist near me” might yield a list of dentists in your immediate area. But how should those choices be evaluated? While every patient’s needs are as unique as they are, there are some general guidelines that can prove helpful when it comes to choosing a new dentist.

1. Dental Association Membership

Members of the Australian Dental Association must follow strict protocols defined by the association in order to maintain their membership. Every dentist that is accredited by the association must follow the Advisory Opinions, the Principles of Ethics, and the Professional Code of Conduct.

Choosing a dental professional that is a member of the ADA ensures a patient will be provided a high standard of care. 

2. Experience

Before choosing a dentist, proper research should be conducted into the dentist’s experience and expertise. They may be the most important criteria for evaluating a potential dental professional.

Remember that expertise is not defined by one type of experience or another. Rather, research should be done into the type of procedure a patient is looking to have performed. A dentist that specializes in orthodontics will have different experiences than one who specializes in periodontitis (gum disease). Both of them will have different expertise still than a dentist who specializes in dental implants. Dentistry is a vast discipline and the type of dental experience sought should match with the type of oral care the patient needs.

3. Modern Equipment

Dentistry is constantly evolving, and technological advancements are consistently being made. An expert dentist has the highest quality equipment and latest technology available to serve patients. Patients should consider paying a visit to the clinic and asking about the type of equipment available and other amenities the dentist has on-site.

4. Patient Testimonials

One of the most effective ways to find a good dentist is by checking out what other patients are saying. Verified patient testimonials give great insight into a dental practice. Reading website testimonials and reviews can tell a new patient a lot about the dentist, their customer service, their office, staff, and most importantly, the quality of their work.

“Best dentist in my life. Thank you soooooo much!!” and “Fantastic experience, totally recommend gentle kind and affordable,” are examples of just two of the 5-star reviews recently left for Dr. Arpit Pathak and the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre.

5. Professional Referrals

Asking a family physician or a local pharmacist for input on finding a dental professional can be fruitful. Doctors and pharmacists deal with local dentists on a regular basis, and also with their patients. Quite often, they get feedback from those patients. Chances are doctors and pharmacists will have a good sense of the best dentists in the area.

6. Cost and Insurance

Affordability certainly plays a role in the dentist chosen. A large part of the affordability is whether the dental professional chosen accepts the insurance card a patient carries. Patients should consider comparing the cost of several clinics to ensure the dental professional they choose is cost-effective.

High-Quality Dental Care in Coffs Harbour

Magic Smiles is a community-focused dental facility that has been providing high-quality dental care to patients for the past three decades. Our mission is to provide compassionate and individualized dental care that larger facilities cannot match. Dr. Pathak and the team invite you to see what makes them special. Call any of our three convenient locations: 

  1. Coffs Harbour – (02) 6652-3242 
  2. Woolgoolga – (02) 6654-0650) 

 Or schedule a consultation online today. 

Sep 23
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smiling baby with two baby teeth

Ask a Coffs Harbour Dentist: Why are baby teeth important?

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Many parents wonder why their children’s baby teeth are important since those teeth will eventually fall out. Even though baby (or primary) teeth are replaced with adult teeth, primary teeth are still important and directly impact your child’s development and health.

1. Jaw Development and Dental Alignment

Baby teeth hold space in your child’s jaw as permanent, adult teeth grow underneath the gums. After the baby teeth fall out, their position helps guide the adult teeth into place. They aid in developing jawbones and facial muscles that support children’s faces to look more balanced and functional. Also, straight teeth are easier to clean because they have fewer nooks and crannies that can trap disease-causing bacteria and food particles. 

2. Cavities and Gum Disease

Baby teeth must be taken care of with regular dental exams, low sugar and carb diet, and at-home oral hygiene routines. These practices help prevent the development of gum disease by reducing plaque (a sticky bacterial film). Bacteria overgrowth, poor oral hygiene diets, and high in sugars and starches put children at risk for dental decay and gum infections.

Cavities

In March 2021, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported that around 4 in 10 Australian children aged 5-10 experienced cavities in their baby teeth. Cavities are a dental infection that enlarges over several months or years and may cause a need for baby root canals and crowns. Additionally, cavities can cause discomfort and swelling.

Gum Disease

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and affects 21.8% of Australian children. Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. Over time, oral infection migrates to the gums and causes inflammation, swelling, and bleeding. Gingivitis is treatable and reversible with professional dental cleanings and efficient, consistent brushing and flossing.

3. Eating

Digestive System

The first step of digestion begins in the mouth. Chewing foods thoroughly breaks up foods so that they can be digested easier. Damaged teeth and dental pain can make it more challenging to chew. When children swallow their food too quickly and without chewing correctly, they risk choking and extending the digestion process.

Nutrition

Also, a versatile, nourishing diet is filled with a cornucopia of textures and flavors. Unfortunately, chewy, coarse foods can be difficult to bite and chew if the teeth feel sore. Also, spicy, acidic foods can aggravate toothaches. When kids restrict their diets due to dental pain, it can be more challenging to achieve their nutritional goals and become picky eaters.

4. Speaking

When the teeth don’t align properly, kids have a higher risk of developing speech problems. Again, baby teeth guide teeth into their permanent position. Overbite, overcrowding, and gapped teeth can create various speech problems, including lisping, whistling sounds, and general distortion of letter sounds. Speech impediments can make it more difficult for others to understand them.

Additionally, self-esteem in children is associated with how they view themselves, competence, and acceptance. When kids don’t feel confident in their voice, they may consider themselves less capable than their peers.

Schedule a Children’s Dentistry Visit in Coffs Harbor

Starting your infant off with good oral care can help protect their teeth for the rest of their life. Dr. Arpit Pathak supports parents in taking care of their children’s teeth with checkups, cleanings, patient education, and preventative treatments. Schedule your child’s first dental exam with an experienced Coffs Harbor dentist by calling (02) 6652-3242 or messaging us online at your earliest convenience.

Aug 19
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Choosing the best dentist for you

6 Factors to Consider When Evaluating a Dental Practice Near You

By Woolgoogla and Coffs Harbour Dentist No Comments

Choosing a new dentist is an important decision. Routine dental checkups help keep your teeth and gums healthy and help prevent disease. Poor oral health can result in many other health risks including cardiovascular disease, for example.

But what factors should be considered when searching for a new dentist? It’s common to hop online and search for “best dental practice near me” when looking for a new dental practice. But what exactly makes a dental practice the “best” or even good? Dr. Arpit Pathak at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre can help you make an informed decision.

Below are 6 important factors to consider when evaluating a new dental practice. 

1. Referrals

A good way to find a dental practice is by getting referrals. Those referrals can come from those closest to you, such as family and friends. They can also come from strangers in the form of reviews left for the practice online. 

Other healthcare professionals, such as your primary care physician or physical therapist can also be a great source for referrals. 

2. Credentials

When researching a new dentist, be sure to evaluate their credentials. Board certification, for example, is a primary factor to consider when deciding on a new dentist. A properly certified dentist completed the appropriate training, education, and has appropriate experience in his field.

It may also be a good idea to examine whether a dentist has a history of malpractice claims or disciplinary actions against him. Such information is usually a matter of public record and can be found on the website of your local government agency that oversees the accreditation of medical professionals.

3. Experience

The more experienced a dental professional is in his field, the higher the success rate of your results will be. This can be especially true if someone is looking for treatment for a specific condition. 

Asking how many patients a dentist has treated for a particular condition or how many specific procedures he has performed can help a patient gauge the level of experience a dentist has attained.

4. Technology

Dentistry is a discipline that is always evolving. New technologies are being put into practice every day.

Inquiring whether a dental practice near you offers the latest in technological equipment can indicate whether the practice has good diagnostic capabilities that can result in less invasive treatments and yield better results.

5. Bedside Manner

A medical professional’s bedside manner or communication style is a critical component in determining his ability to care for patients. Choosing a dentist that is comfortable speaking with patients and who understands a patient’s needs is vital to getting effective care and treatment.

Ask yourself this question: Is this dental professional open with knowledge and do they welcome and respect questions? If the answer is “no” or “it could be better,” he may not be the right dentist for you.

6. Insurance

Knowing which insurance a dental practice accepts or does not is a practical matter. Choosing a dentist who offers your dental insurance may mean the difference between paying little in out-of-pocket expenses or paying a lot. 

Dental Practice Near You in Coffs Harbour

Dr. Pathak and his team are ready to answer any questions you may have about your oral care. Call any of our three convenient locations: 

  1. Coffs Harbour – (02) 6652-3242 
  2. Woolgoolga – (02) 6654-0650) 

 Or schedule a free consultation online today. 

 

Jul 30
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happy kids with plane

PREPARING KIDS TO MEET YOUR LOCAL CHILDREN’S DENTIST

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Why are young kids so reluctant to meet their local children’s dentist? Dentophobia in young children may stem from fear of a new environment and not knowing what to expect. It could also be caused by the sound of dental equipment. 

Whatever the cause, parents and dentists have to work together to foster good oral health. When kids develop dental hygiene skills at a young age, they have fewer tooth problems as adults. 

So what’s the solution? How can parents help their kids get excited about going to the dentist? Here are some pro tips to help your little one overcome dental fear: 

THE FIRST MEETING

Ideally, children should have their first dental visit when they start teething or turn one year old, whichever comes first. Look for a dental practice that specializes in treating young children. They will work with parents to make the visit feel safe and exciting. 

Here are two tips for parents of young children: 

  1. Have kids meet their local children’s dentist before having a cleaning or exam. They can take a tour of the dentist’s office, meet their care team, and even sit in the chair. It’s a no-pressure way to introduce them to the dentist.
  2. Incorporate the idea of visiting the dentist into conversations at home. Try to find age-appropriate books that describe what it’s like to go to the dentist. Kids might want to give dental exams to their stuffed animals or learn more about healthy teeth.

Even with all of the above preparation, some kids will take a few visits to warm up to dental and other medical visits. This is absolutely normal and universal. 

DEVELOPING HEALTHY HABITS AT HOME

Once kids are comfortable with their local dentist, they can start getting cleanings and exams. Even though baby teeth fall out eventually, it’s still important to check them regularly for signs of decay.

To make sure kids pass their dental exams with flying colors, establish a tooth brushing routine at home. Flossing isn’t necessary until kids have two teeth that touch each other, usually around the age of two or three. Tooth brushing, on the other hand, is a perfect addition to the bedtime routine. 

If your child has been to the dentist several times and still shows reluctance or fear, have a chat with them at home. Being brave and overcoming fear is something we all have to do at times. Also, talk to your dentist. They may suggest that your child: 

  • Bring a stuffed animal or blanket to exams
  • Sit in your lap during teeth cleaning
  • Come in when there are fewer patients in the office
  • Visit again without having an exam

Compassionate dentistry is all about helping patients get the right care. If it takes a little longer to get our littlest patients excited about brushing, we don’t mind at all. 

CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY IN COFFS HARBOUR

We know that children can get a little nervous when it’s time to visit the dentist, which is why our friendly team at Magic Smiles is so patient and kind. Dental visits shouldn’t be stressful, so we do everything possible to put your child at ease. 

Children between the ages of two and 17 may be entitled to $1000 of free dental treatment through Medicare. To determine eligibility, call Medicare direct (132 150) to speak with a customer service representative. 

To get started with us, give us a call at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our dental specialists. 

 

Jul 23
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Invisalign aligners

YOUR FIRST WEEK WITH INVISALIGN: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

By Invisalign No Comments

Are you an adult who would like to reap the benefits of straight teeth? Do you need to find a discreet way to improve your smile? 

More than 10 million people have used Invisalign, a set of clear braces that realigns even extremely crooked teeth. Instead of metal braces, which can be uncomfortable, Invisalign uses a series of clear retainers. 

In general, Invisalign treatment takes 12 to 18 months, and there is a slight adjustment period. Patients often see results in just a few weeks. To find out the best way to care for new Invisalign aligners, keep reading. 

MAXIMIZE THE BENEFITS OF INVISALIGN ALIGNERS

During the first few weeks, Invisalign retainers may be a bit uncomfortable. Patients should wear them for 22 hours per day to get the maximum benefits. Patients will feel pressure as teeth move into their new positions, but there shouldn’t be any sharp pain. Here are a few ways to adjust to the aligners:

  • USE AN ALIGNER CHEWIE

So much depends upon getting a tight seal between the Invisalign retainer and the teeth. One simple way to accomplish this is to use an aligner chewie, a small device that patients bite down on while wearing the braces. They put the chewie over different sections of teeth, then bite. 

This tightens the seal and makes the aligners more comfortable. There shouldn’t be any sharp pain or bleeding from the gums. If this occurs, it’s time to meet with the dental team in person.

  • MONITOR DAILY WEAR

If possible, remove the Invisalign aligners every day at the same times. These breaks can occur at any time of day, but make sure the total “off” time is no more than two hours. The braces might irritate the tongue at first, but it’s important to leave them in place. 

There are several free apps to help track daily wear time. Use these if you aren’t sure if you are meeting the required time. Patients who are inconsistent with wearing their braces could extend their treatment time past 18 months. 

  • REMOVE PROPERLY AND CLEAN THOROUGHLY

Although it’s tempting to remove aligners by hand, it can scrape the gums and lead to infection. To properly remove Invisalign aligners, use an Orthokey. This small hook is specific to Invisalign appliances and is safe to use at home. 

Cleaning aligners takes a few steps, but this process is vital to prevent bacteria and plaque buildup. First, remove the aligners and rinse them under warm water. Next, brush them with toothpaste and rinse again. Soak the aligners in a special cleaning solution and then rinse one more time. 

Taking the time to care for Invisalign aligners helps maintain oral health during the realignment process. Teeth and gums are extremely vulnerable to bacteria, and proper care will prevent gum disease from taking hold. 

Talk to your dentist to see if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign.  

TEETH WHITENING AFTER INVISALIGN

After our patients’ teeth are nice and straight, we recommend that they get teeth whitening. Our friendly team at Magic Smiles can do in-house whitening procedures that give you a dazzling, natural-looking smile. 

In addition to clear Invisalign braces, we also offer traditional metal braces. Adults who wish to improve their smiles are welcome here! We have offices in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour.

Talk to us about your oral health goals and we can chat about the Invisalign process. Contact our experienced team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our experienced dental specialists.

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.