FAQ
Why are my teeth sensitive?
Sensitive teeth often come from the fact that your gums have slightly receded.
This recession of the gum line allows the underlying dentin to show through
which allows water and food easier access to the sensitive nerve. To manage
this, there are a number of toothpastes, gels and even some dental procedures
that can be applied. Speak to us in more detail if you have very sensitive
teeth.
What should I do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay?
Great teeth and gum care start at home. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis
is the best way to take care of your teeth and gums on a continual
basis. By keeping to a daily routing you will greatly minimize the
risk of gingivitis or tooth decay as you age.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a condition caused when bacteria surrounds the teeth and enters
the gums. The gums can become irritated, inflamed and often bleed.
In order to prevent the condition from worsening, regular hygiene visits are
highly recommended. During your visit, our Hygiene team will teach you
the proper flossing techniques and Oral Hygiene protocol for Home Care will
prevent the Periodontal Disease.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal Disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no
symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that surrounds the teeth and enters
the gums. The immediate condition is known as ‘gingivitis’. The
gums become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. If not properly
treated, the condition worsens. Noticeable symptoms now appear.
They include:
- Bad Breath
- Gum Recession
- Gum Sensitivity to Acidic Foods
- Abscesses
- Tooth Pain
- Tooth Loss
How Do YouTreat Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal Disease is a chronic condition that needs immediate
attention. Through a series of Periodontal Cleanings, Root Planing &
Scaling, Laser Therapy and Local Antibiotics, this condition can be
controlled. Periodontal Surgery is only necessary for severe cases.
What is the Difference a White and Silver Filling?
Silver Fillings known as Amalgam have been around for decades. Made from
a metal alloy, it was the best restoration for fillings. The metal
expands and contracts with the heat and cold placed in the mouth. This
allowed for little bacteria to enter a tooth once filled; keeping the tooth
healthy and strong.
White Fillings, also known as composites are often made of plastic or glass
polymers. These cosmetic fillings allow us to fill a cavity with a substance
that will look and feel just like your existing tooth structure. This
restoration is created with a resin material and fits tightly into a tooth to
prevent decay. Rather than a gray or silver material in your mouth, the
composite color will match the tooth color.
How Can I Improve My Smile?
There are several ways in today’s Dental World to enhance your smile.
Certain procedures include:
- Tooth Whitening
- Bonding
- Porcelain Veneers
- Porcelain Crowns
We have the capability to improve your smile using all or some of these
procedures. For an exact consultation, please contact our office so that we
may provide you with a customized treatment plan.
What is Tooth Whitening?
Tooth Whitening is a cost effective and safe procedure to create a beautiful,
healthy smile. Over the years, flouride is has been added to the
whitening product. This reduces the risk of tooth and gum sensitivity.
Tooth Whitening must be monitored by your dentist and only done after a
comprehensive exam and hygiene cleaning.
The whitening process can last for a number of years if maintained
properly. Beverages such as coffee, tea, cola and wine will reduce the
lasting effect. Remember, if it could stain a white shirt, it will stain
your smile!
What is Bonding?
Bonding is a cost effective procedure used to fill gaps in front teeth and to
change a tooth’s color. The immediate results are amazing. Within
a few hours, you will have a great smile! Bonding like Tooth Whitening
may change color over time due to coffee, tea, cola and wine.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that go directly on your
natural teeth. . This entire procedure can take as few as two
visits. Veneers change the size, shape and color of a patient’s
teeth. This procedure is used to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened
by age or medication, or a crooked smile. Many times, patients ask for
Porcelain Veneers to simply feel and look younger with a straighter, whiter
smile!
What are Crowns?
Crowns are a permanent cosmetic procedure that covers the entire tooth.
It will change the size, shape and color of the teeth in as few as 2 visits.
What is a Dental Implant?
A Dental Implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth or tooth
root. Made from titanium, this screw-like object is inserted under the
gum and directly into the upper or lower jaw bone. There is usually
minimal discomfort involved with this procedure. After a period of a few
months, the Dental Implant and the bone fuse together. This creates an
anchor for the new tooth to be placed onto the dental implant.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
- Dental Implants look and function like your natural tooth.
- Dental Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth.
- Dental Implants are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office.
- Dental Implants decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease, tooth movement, and further tooth loss.
- Dental Implants replace the need for a Removable Full or Partial Denture.
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Dental Implants focus only on the tooth or teeth that are missing. A
traditional bridge would involve the two or more adjacent teeth being
compromised to create a false tooth in between.
Who is a candidate for Dental Implants?
With major advancements in Dentistry and Dental Implants, most people are
candidates for Dental Implants. There may be exceptions due to chronic
illness, heart disease, and severe osteoporosis.
What does the Dental Implant Procedure Involve?
The average Dental Implant Procedure takes 3 - 4 visits. The first visit
is to x-ray the area and take an impression for a surgical guide and a
temporary prosthesis to cover the Implant.
The next visit is to place the Implant. A local anesthesia is applied to the
area. (Any additional sedation is no longer necessary unless deemed by
the dentist). The dentist will then make a minor incision to place
the implant. The implant is placed into the jaw bone. The area will then
be covered with sutures. The procedure is usually completed with minor
pain.
You will next return in approximately 3 months to begin creating the Porcelain
Crown to place over the Implant.
How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?
Fees from Dental Implants vary from dentist to dentist. Always schedule
an Implant Consultation to discuss the procedure and all fees involved.
How long does a Dental Implant last?
With routine dental hygiene scheduled and proper home care, A Dental Implant
can last approximately 30 years to a lifetime.
Does your office offer financing for services provided?
Please contact us to discuss the options we have available to make your
perfect smile today!