How Dental Implants Can Make Your Teeth Look Like New!

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1 Family Dentistry FAQs on Sealants for Children Q. How does one care for primary teeth? As soon as the first tooth erupts, primary teeth may be cleaned with a clean, wet wash cloth or wet gauze. The gums should also be gently wiped. If a toothbrush is used, it should be an appropriate size. Q. Where does decay on the primary teeth occur most often? A. With inappropriate or prolonged use of the baby bottle, decay may occur on the upper front teeth (incisors). The second most-often occurring site are the upper primary molars, which are found furthest back in the mouth. If there is no spacing between the primary teeth, there is a much greater chance of decay between the primary molars. These teeth should be flossed as soon as they come in. Q. Why are dental sealants beneficial for children? A. Dental sealants are applied by your dentist as protective coatings for the chewing surface of permanent molars. They protect the teeth from decay. Read on for more information. Dental Emergency Uh-oh! A Dental Emergency! If a dental emergency should happen to your child, please remember to act quickly. Stay calm-a parent's apprehension can be transmitted to the child. Bring the child to us with the tooth replanted or kept moist in transit. We'll take care of you immediately. A child, learning to ride a two-wheeled bicycled, loses her balance, falls, hits a rock and knocks out a front tooth. What do you do? If the tooth is replaced in the tooth socket immediately, the chances are good that this tooth can be maintained for many years. Do something and do it now The success of this replantation procedure is directly related to how soon the tooth is replaced in its socket. If possible, just rinse the tooth with tap water and gently replace the tooth in its socket and come to the office. Otherwise, wrap the tooth in a clean, moistened cloth-or put it in a cup of water or milk-and get to the office, now. Never scrape the tooth or allow it to dry out. Remember, time is of the essence If the tooth is left out of the mouth for more than 30 minutes, the chance for successful replantation drops significantly.we consider replantation successful if we can keep the tooth in position at least during a child's growth period. By maintaining the space, the replanted tooth prevents tipping of adjacent teeth. If it's necessary to replace the injured tooth, it's much easier to do it when the child is older - when all the permanent teeth are in. The good news is that we have bonding and implant techniques today for tooth replacement-and new materials to fill in for a lost tooth.

2 Research Your Dentistry and Dental Care Frequently Asked Questions Q. What is endodontics? A. Endodontics is the area of dentistry that specifically deals with what is called the pulp within a tooth. The dental pulp is a soft tissue comprised of tiny arteries, veins, nerves and lymph vessels for the tooth. Q. What does the procedure root canal mean? A. Root canal has become a term for a procedure involving the dental pulp. When the dental pulp has been exposed and damaged, it must be treated professionally and this process is usually referred to as getting a root canal. Q. What does a root canal procedure entail? A. Once the dental pulp has been infected, it must be removed from both the pulp chamber and the root canals. Once it has been removed, the pulp chamber and root canals are thoroughly cleaned and enlarged. Based on the level of infection, the dentists may choose to clean the area more than once. After the area is free of infection, the dentist will fill the root canals and pulp chamber with a filling that will prevent any bacteria from entering the area. Finally, the dentist will place a crown over the tooth to restore it to its original shape. Q. What causes dental pulp to become damaged or infected? A. Normally, when a deep cavity occurs, it exposes the dental pulp to the bacteria inside the mouth. When exposed to this bacteria, the dental pulp can become infected and thus cause the inside of the tooth to be infected. Q. What can happen if infected dental pulp is not treated? A. Overtime, the infected pulp will die. At the same time, pus from the infection will develop at the base of the tooth and cause an abscess to form. If this occurs, it is not uncommon for the abscess to cause the bone holding the tooth to deteriorate. If this deterioration becomes too severe, the tooth will fall out. Q. What is a dental implant? A. A dental implant is a permanent artificial tooth replacement. Q. What is the procedure for receiving dental implants? A. Dental implants are inserted surgically in two steps. The first step is to insert a post into or onto the jawbone. This post will then become the anchor for the artificial tooth that will be placed over the post.

3 Q. How long is the procedure for dental implants? A. Getting a dental implant is a two step process. Once the post is inserted into the jawbone, the patient will have between three and six months with a temporary restoration. During this period, the bone and gum area around the post will heal to create a strong and healthy bond. Once this bond is complete, an additional set of smaller posts is attached to the original post and then the artificial tooth is secured to the posts. The entire procedure could take anywhere from three to ten months. Q. Can I eat regularly while the implants are bonding? A. While the post is bonding with your jaw and gums, your dentist will place a temporary artificial tooth on the post. During the bonding period, you will need to eat soft foods. Q. Do implants require special care? A. Yes and No. Dental implants need to be brushed, flossed and checked regularly by a dentist, just as you would do with your regular teeth. But dental implants don t need special brushes or pastes. Q. Can you eat and chew normally with dental implants? A. Yes. Consider that natural teeth can absorb up to approximately 540 lbs. per square inch of biting pressure and properly placed dental implants can withstand up to approximately 450 lbs. per square inch of the same pressure. Q. How long should a dental implant last? A. With proper placement, excellent home care, regular dental visits, and good overall health, dental implants should be permanent. Q. What are wisdom teeth? A. Wisdom teeth are the third molars. Q. Why is it necessary to remove wisdom teeth? A. It is necessary to remove wisdom teeth to avoid problems, such as an impacted tooth destroying the second molar. Q. Why do wisdom teeth cause problems? A. Wisdom teeth generate problems because the shape of the modern human mouth is too small to accommodate these teeth, and they become impacted or unable to come in or move into their proper place. Q. What problems occur from impacted third molars? A. Partially erupted wisdom teeth are breeding grounds for bacteria and germs that may cause infection. Cysts and tumors may grow on trapped wisdom teeth. Q. How is a wisdom tooth removed? A. Wisdom teeth are removed by surgery. The gum tissue over the tooth is removed, the connective tissue is stripped gently away from the tooth and bone, the tooth is removed, and the gum sutured. Q. When are lasers used in dentistry? A. Lasers are used in oral surgery, gum surgery, tooth whitening, cancer sore treatment, and the treatment of gums that have been diseased

4 How Pregnancy Affects Your Dental Care Thinking about your baby and prenatal care is normal during pregnancy; however, thinking about your oral health and dental care may not be forefront on your mind, but dentistry is still very important. Women need to pay special attention to their teeth and gums especially during pregnancy to avoid the increased risk of dental problems. Your Changing Body and Changing Dental Care Needs During Pregnancy. Pregnancy brings a change in oral health and hormones, especially increased levels of estrogen and progesterone, which are linked to plaque buildup on teeth. Plaque that is not removed can cause gingivitis and swollen gums that are tender and prone to bleed. Most pregnant women experience gingivitis to some degree, but it doesn't usually surface until the second trimester. If you had gingivitis before becoming pregnant, your condition will likely be aggravated; untreated gingivitis can lead to a more serious problem -- periodontal disease. Swollen gums that become irritated can also lead to pregnancy tumors, benign growths that will usually shrink and disappear without treatment. However, if the tumor causes discomfort or interferes with chewing or brushing, the dentist may suggest removing it. Special Preventive Dental Care Tips for Pregnant Women Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and after each meal, if possible. If brushing your teeth causes morning sickness, rinse with anti-plaque and fluoride mouthwashes or water. Pay close attention to your gum line and keep it clean. Floss daily. Focus on nutrition, including plenty of vitamins C and B12. Visit your dentist for a check-up and cleaning in both your first and second trimesters to control plaque and maintain good oral health. Handling Dental Care Emergencies During Pregnancy If you experience dental emergencies causing pain, you can be treated at any time; however, consult your doctor if anesthesia is required or a medication is prescribed to you. Avoid X-rays during pregnancy, unless they are critical to emergency treatment. It is recommended to schedule elective procedures after your baby's birth. While you're expecting, have great expectations for maintaining good oral health. By doing so, you'll keep your beautiful smile and share it with your baby!

5 Computerized Dental Radiography These days, computers are really changing the way we live and work. You've probably experienced their impact in your own home. And believe me, technology is also helping raise our dental practice to a new level of safety, accuracy, and comfort. Keeping up with all these advances is a full-time occupation that's as important as my work at chairside. One of the most promising of these breakthroughs is an improvement on the oldest evaluation technology we have - dental x-rays. For close to a century, dentists have used x-rays to detect cavities and damage invisible to the eye. We've long been aware of the drawbacks. Though x-ray radiation is slight, many patients find it a cause for concern. And reading the negative requires a skilled, professional eye-which means my patients can't see what I see. That's why my office uses a Computed Dental Radiography System as an x-ray alternative. A computer enhances a "photo" of your teeth and shows it instantly on a screen. This new system requires 90% less radiation than the old film x-rays, and can magnify the image up to 300 times. It's as easy to read as a snapshot. When I discuss something I see in your mouth, you'll be able to view it right along with me. This is an exciting time to be a dentist. We're re-thinking and refining virtually every aspect of our dental practice, and I wanted to pass a bit of it along to you.

6 Tooth Whitening Basics - Why Are My Teeth Discolored? If you're embarrassed by your discolored teeth, you're not alone. There's a reason cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening, is a multibillion dollar industry. We all want brighter, whiter teeth. While it would be nice to get the smile you'd love naturally, that just isn't an option. So, who's to blame? Why are you struggling with tooth discoloration to begin with? Good news - it may not be your fault! Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration There are a number of causes of potential tooth discoloration, and some are completely unavoidable on your part. While the precise cause of your tooth discoloration may be difficult to peg down, chances are one or more of the following causes are to blame. Food and Drinks. You may have heard that coffee, tea and soda can stain your teeth, but did you know certain veggies, like potatoes and apples, can stain them as well? Tobacco. This is a given. Smoking and chewing will not only discolor your teeth, but can also cause gum disease or contribute to oral cancer (among other health conditions). Poor Dental Hygiene. If you don't want to give up your morning coffee or kick your smoking habit, then you're going to have to try to compensate with excellent dental care. Regular brushing and flossing can reduce the odds that you will stain your teeth. Regular check ups and cleanings are critical, too. Disease. Ahh finally, we're discussing possible causes for tooth discoloration that aren't your fault. Several diseases that affect tooth enamel and dentin can lead to tooth discoloration. What's more, treatments for certain conditions, such as chemotherapy to fight cancer, can discolor your teeth. If you're pregnant while suffering from one of these ailments or undergoing one of these treatments, the teeth of your developing child may be affected as well. Medications. Certain antibiotics, such as tetracycline and doxycycline, can discolor your teeth, particularly if used before the age of 8. Mouth rinses and washes containing chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride can also stain teeth, while antihistamines (like Benadryl), antipsychotic drugs and antihypertensive medications also cause discoloration. Genetics. When all else fails, blame mom and dad. Age. Nothing escapes the affects of age - not even your teeth. Environment. Excessive fluoride from environmental sources, such as naturally high fluoride levels in the water, can contribute to discolored teeth.

7 Dental Insurance, What Should You Know Dental insurance is not meant to be a pay-all. It's only meant to be an aid. You are very fortunate if you have dental insurance coverage and don't have to pay the entire dental fee plan out of your own pocket. Many patients don't have any dental insurance at all. Some patients have excellent dental insurance policies, some have fair policies, and some have poor policies. Many plans tell you you'll be covered up to 80% - 100%. In spite of what you're told, most plans cover only 15% - 70% of the average dental fee plan. We realize that every bit of help you get from your insurance company is a big help, and we are glad you have coverage. However, it must be understood that how much your policy covers has already been determined by how much your employer paid for your insurance policy. The less he/she paid for the insurance, the less you'll receive. FOR EXAMPLE: PLAN Costs a lot of money Costs 1/2 the amount Deductible is $50.00 Deductible is $ Pays $84.00 on a filling Pays $35.00 on a filling Yearly maximum is $1,000 Yearly maximum is $800 It has been the experience of many dentists that some insurance companies tell their customers that "fees are above the usual and customary" rather than saying "our benefits are low." Your insurance company sets the "allowables" or "a usual and customary dental fee plan" depending on how much your employer paid for your policy. It's just like your car insurance. The lower the benefits you choose, the less it costs you in premiums. Many necessary routine dental services are not covered by dental insurance at all. Again, what is covered and what is not is determined by what benefits and dental fee plan your employer purchased for you. We do not believe it is in your best interest for your treatment to be compromised in order to accommodate an insurance policy's restrictions that may provide you with a quality of care that is considerably less than you deserve. We strongly feel that you, not your insurance company, should choose the treatment you feel is best for you.

8 Top 10 Reasons Not to Dodge Your Dental Cleaning Appointment Sure, regular cleanings with our office promote good oral hygiene, but did you know it can also prevent a multitude of diseases? That 2 o'clock chair-side rendezvous may not seem nearly as exciting as a late lunch with a friend, but it will be well worth it in the end. Here are 10 really great reasons to stick with your regular cleaning schedule! 1. It Prevents Oral Cancer. You may or may not realize that you're screened for oral cancer during your regular dental cleaning. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, an American dies of oral cancer every hour of every day. It's a sad proposition, especially when you consider that it is highly curable with early diagnosis. 2. It Wards Off Gum Disease. Gum disease, or an infection in the gum tissues and bone that keep your teeth in place, is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. It can be treated and reversed if diagnosed early. Unfortunately, not receiving treatment will lead to a more serious and advanced state of gum disease. Regular cleanings and check ups and daily brushing and flossing are key weapons in the fight against these conditions. 3. It's About More Than Your Mouth. Sure, not getting regular check-ups may make you less kissable, but did you know that studies have linked heart attacks and strokes to gum disease associated with poor oral hygiene? A trip to your dentist every 6 months could reduce your risk of serious health problems! 4. You Want to Preserve Your Smile. As mentioned, gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. To keep your pearly whites intact, stick with your cleaning schedule. 5. It's Best to Detect Dental Problems Early. We've already touched upon early detection of gum disease and oral cancer, but don't overlook more basic dental problems. Cavities and broken fillings are easy to treat. Without regular trips to the dentist, these problems can lead to root canals, gum surgery and tooth extraction. Which sounds worse: A 30-minute cleaning or an hour under the knife? 6. You Want to Know You're Doing it Right. Maybe you bought a fancy new electric toothbrush, or aren't keeping up with what current research has to say about caring for your teeth. Either way, check ups allow your dentist to examine your mouth and keep you on the right path. 7. You Have Dental Insurance. Consider how much money you put into your insurance plan. Take advantage of it and save a lot of money in the long run by avoiding costly procedures that result from poor dental habits. 8. You Want to Upgrade Your Smile. If you're already suffering from tooth decay or gum problems, regular appointments will allow our office to create a personalized treatment plan that will give you the best smile possible. 9. You Want to Dazzle. Regular cleanings remove most tobacco, coffee and tea stains, polishing your teeth to a beautiful shine! 10. You Need Some Time Alone. Okay, maybe not completely alone, but the time you spend in the waiting room and chair is really your time. You can forget about the office or the stresses of family life and just relax. Read a magazine or work through a crossword if you want. Take advantage of the time you're given, rather than worrying about how to fit it in your tight schedule. Your health and well-being should never take a back seat to your daily planner. If it's been more than 6 months since your last check up and cleaning, call your dentist to schedule an appointment today!

9 What is a Crown? A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular, because they resemble your natural teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile. Reasons for crowns: Broken or fractured teeth. Cosmetic enhancement. Decayed teeth. Fractured fillings. Large fillings. Tooth has a root canal. What does getting a crown involve? A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory. While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly. At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and the bite is accurate. You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

10 What are Veneers? Veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile. Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile. They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions. As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement. They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile. Reasons for porcelain veneers: Cosmetically, to create a uniform, white, beautiful smile. Crooked teeth. Misshapen teeth. Severely discolored or stained teeth. Teeth that are too small or too large. Unwanted or uneven spaces. Worn or chipped teeth. What does getting porcelain veneers involve? Getting veneers usually requires two visits to complete the process, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure. The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer. A mold or impression of the teeth is taken and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and the dentist. On the second visit the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond. Bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer and a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond. You will receive care instructions for veneers. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new veneers.

11 What is a fixed bridge? A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth. There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The traditional bridge is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain fixed bridges are most popular because they resemble your natural teeth. This type of bridge consists to two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear. Reasons for a fixed bridge: Fill space of missing teeth. Maintain facial shape. Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position. Restore chewing and speaking ability. Restore your smile. Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance. What does getting a fixed bridge involve? Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment. At the second visit, you permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time. You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.

12 What is a dental Implant? Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances. Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist - a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient s smile! Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear. Reasons for dental implants: Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth. Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space. Restore a patient s confident smile. Restore chewing, speech, and digestion. Restore or enhance facial tissues. Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable. What does getting dental implants involve? The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months. X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the post that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time. After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient. You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.

13 What are Partial Dentures? If you are just missing a few teeth, then only partial dentures are called for. A partial denture, also known as a bridge, fills the gap left by a row of several missing teeth, or may leave intermittent slots for remaining natural teeth. These dentures are extremely versatile and will be custom made for your exact needs. A partial denture is constructed of a pink acrylic base set with life-like false teeth. The entire bridge is supported by a metal framework. Partial dentures can have either of two modes for attachment; removable or permanent. Let's take a look at both styles. Removable partial dentures may use metal clasps that attach to remaining natural teeth, often referred to as abutments. A crown is usually added to the abutment teeth to provide the denture with added strength and give a better fit. Another type of clip called a precision attachment may also be used with this denture. Precision attachments generally look better and are nearly invisible when the denture is in place. Learning to insert your removable partial denture is going to take a little practice. The denture will feel a little awkward at first, but within a few days you should become accustomed quite nicely to it. A well made denture should attach fairly easily and should never require forcing, which might break the clips. Biting down to place your dentures is a no-no, and again, you don't want to risk breaking your brand new denture. Establish good habits in the beginning and your dentures should last longer. Valplast Partial Denture Partial dentures can also be installed permanently, and are generally referred to as fixed dentures. Again, crowns will be installed to the abutment teeth to beef up support. The partial denture may then be bonded directly to the abutment teeth for a secure permanent fit. Another method of permanently installing partial dentures is the implant method. Titanium rods will be installed directly into the boney ridges of the jaw, either pointing up or down depending on which jaw, and individual teeth are then cemented to each post. The rods can also be installed in the front surface of the gums and a whole denture bridge can then be mounted on the posts. Implants have a great success rate and while more expensive, are becoming very popular due to the great stability and natural look they can provide. Your new partial dentures should also make eating easier again. Softer foods are recommended at first until you become used to having the denture in place. In a short time, your new partial dentures will seem as normal to you as your own natural teeth. Metal Partial