Star Dental Care Port Macquarie

  🧬 Pioneering Technology Offers Earlier Detection of Oral Cancer 🔬 A groundbreaking advancement in oral cancer detection has been announced by researchers at the University of Otago. In a recent study published via ScienceDaily ( April 14, 2025 ), scientists revealed a pioneering technique that could significantly improve the early diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma — a potentially life-threatening form of oral cancer. 🌐   Contact Us  🔍 What Makes This Discovery Unique? Unlike traditional diagnostic methods, which often rely on visual checks or invasive biopsies once symptoms are visible, this new method uses a non-invasive brush biopsy coupled with a highly sensitive molecular test. This technology is capable of detecting molecular markers of cancer before visible lesions develop. 🧪 The test identifies DNA methylation patterns — chemical changes to DNA associated with cancer — in cells collected from the inside of the mouth. This means patients at risk...

  Understanding "Ozempic Teeth": What You Need to Know Ozempic (semaglutide), a GLP-1 receptor agonist, has gained popularity for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss. However, users have reported various oral health issues, colloquially termed "Ozempic teeth." These concerns encompass dry mouth, gum disease, tooth decay, and more. 🌐   Contact Us  🦷 What Is "Ozempic Teeth"? "Ozempic teeth" refers to a range of dental problems experienced by some individuals taking Ozempic or similar GLP-1 medications. Common issues include: Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Reduced saliva production can lead to discomfort and increased risk of cavities and gum disease. Gum Inflammation: Changes in oral microbiome may cause gingivitis or periodontitis. Tooth Decay: Lack of saliva hampers the mouth's natural cleansing, promoting bacterial growth. Bad Breath: Dry mouth and altered taste can result in halitosis. These symptoms are ofte...

  Root Canal Treatment Explained Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is one of the most misunderstood procedures in dentistry. Despite being a common and safe way to save a tooth, it’s often shrouded in fear and confusion. If you're facing a potential root canal or simply want to know more, you're not alone. Here, we answer the 15 most common “People Also Ask” (PAA) questions based on popular online search queries — using simple, reassuring language to explain everything you need to know. 🌐   Contact Us  ❓ 1. What is a root canal? A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth. It involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and then sealing it to prevent further issues. This process allows you to keep your natural tooth and avoid extraction. ❓ 2. Why do I need a root canal? You might need a root canal if the soft tissue inside your tooth (the pulp) becomes inflamed or infected due ...

  🦷 Chrome Cobalt Partial Dentures: A Comprehensive Guide Chrome cobalt partial dentures are a durable and comfortable solution for replacing missing teeth. This guide will help you understand their benefits, care, and suitability. 🌐   Contact Us  ❓ What Are Chrome Cobalt Partial Dentures? Chrome cobalt partial dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of a metal framework made from a chrome-cobalt alloy, onto which artificial teeth are attached using acrylic. The metal framework provides strength and stability, while the acrylic components offer a natural appearance. ❓ How Do They Differ from Acrylic Dentures? Unlike acrylic dentures, chrome cobalt partials have a thinner, lighter, and more rigid metal base. This design allows for a more precise fit and better distribution of chewing forces. Acrylic dentures are bulkier and may not offer the same level of comfort and durability. ❓ What Are the Advant...

 Understanding Mandibular Advancement Splints (MAS) for Sleep Apnoea Sleep apnoea, particularly Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), is a prevalent condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. Mandibular Advancement Splints (MAS) have emerged as a non-invasive treatment option for individuals with mild to moderate OSA or those intolerant to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy.  🌐   Contact Us  🦷 What is a Mandibular Advancement Splint? A Mandibular Advancement Splint is a custom-made oral device worn during sleep. It functions by gently repositioning the lower jaw (mandible) forward, thereby enlarging the upper airway and reducing the risk of obstruction. This advancement helps prevent the collapses and obstructions that cause snoring and sleep apnoea, allowing for smoother breathing and more restful. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. How does a MAS work? By advancing the lower jaw forward, a MAS increases th...

  🦷 Receding Gums: Your Comprehensive Guide Receding gums, or gingival recession, is a common dental condition where the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This can lead to increased sensitivity, higher risk of decay, and even tooth loss if left untreated. At Star Dental Care in Port Macquarie, we're committed to educating our patients about this condition and providing effective treatments. 🌐   Contact Us  ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Receding Gums 1. What are receding gums? Receding gums occur when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This can lead to sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and aesthetic concerns. 2. What causes gums to recede? Several factors can contribute to gum recession, including: Periodontal diseases : Bacterial infections that destroy gum tissue. Aggressive tooth brushing : Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbr...

  🦷 Mercury Amalgam Removal: What You Need to Know 🦷 Are you considering replacing your old silver fillings? Mercury amalgam removal is becoming an increasingly popular choice among patients who want safer, more aesthetic, and holistic dental options. At Star Dental Care, Port Macquarie , Dr Jeremy Rourke and his team provide safe, effective amalgam removal in accordance with international safety standards. 🌐   Contact Us  ❓ What is Mercury Amalgam? Mercury amalgam, or “silver filling,” is a metal mixture that includes mercury, silver, tin, and copper. It has been widely used in dentistry for over 150 years. While durable, amalgam can release small amounts of mercury vapour—especially when chewing—which has raised health and environmental concerns. 🧪 Why Choose Mercury Amalgam Removal? Patients choose mercury amalgam removal for a variety of reasons: ✅ Concern over mercury exposure ✅ Cracked or deteriorating fillings ✅ Allergic reactions to metals ✅ Prefer...

  🦷 Wisdom Tooth Pain, Pericoronitis & Extraction: What You Need to Know 😖 If you’ve ever experienced a dull ache in the back of your mouth, you might be dealing with wisdom tooth pain . While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, many suffer from discomfort, infection, or crowding—especially in their late teens to mid-20s. At Star Dental Care Port Macquarie , we regularly help patients manage wisdom tooth issues, including pericoronitis and wisdom tooth extraction . 🌐   Contact Us  Let’s take a closer look at these common concerns. 😣 What Causes Wisdom Tooth Pain? Wisdom teeth (also known as third molars) usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Often, there isn’t enough room in the jaw to accommodate them, leading to impaction . This is when a tooth becomes trapped under the gum or grows at an angle. Common causes of wisdom tooth pain include: 🔸 Pressure from erupting teeth 🔸 Crowding or shifting of other teeth 🔸 Inflammation and ...