Why are my teeth sensitive?
Sensitive teeth often come from your gums being slightly receded. This recession of the gum line allows the underlying root to show through, which allows fluid and food easier access to the sensitive nerve. To manage this, there are a number of toothpastes, gels and some dental procedures that can be applied. Speak to us if sensitive teeth are a concern for you.
What should I do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay?
Great teeth and gum care starts at home. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis is the best way to take care of your teeth and gums on a continous basis. By keeping to a daily routine, you will greatly minimize the risk of gum problems or tooth decay.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a condition caused when bacteria surround enter the gums. Around the teeth, the gums may become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. In order to prevent the condition from worsening, regular hygiene visits are highly recommended. During your visit, our hygienist will teach you the proper flossing techniques and oral hygiene protocol for home care.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal Disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that surround the teeth and go below the gumline. The initial condition is known as ‘gingivitis’(see above). 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
- Teeth Sensitivity to Acidic Foods
- Abscesses
- Teeth Pain
- Teeth Loss
How Do You Treat Periodontal Disease?
Through a series of periodontal cleanings, root planing & scaling, laser therapy and local antibiotics, this condition can be controlled. Periodontal surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
What is the Difference Between a White and Silver Filling?
Silver fillings, known as amalgam, have been around over a hundred years. They are made from a combination of metals and mecury and were, for a long time, the best restoration for fillings. The metal expands and contracts based on the temperature of food and drink you consume. This expansion and contraction allowsfor bacteria to enter along the margins of the amalgam filling.
White fillings, also known as composites, are 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 black, gray or silver material in your mouth, the composite color will match your 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 smile 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 has been added to the whitening product. This reduces the likelihood of teeth sensitivity.
Tooth Whitening should be monitored by us 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 effect. Remember, if it could stain a white shirt, it will stain your teeth!
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 your teeth. This procedure is used to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or crooked teeth. Patients sometimes ask for porcelain veneers to simply feel and look younger with a straighter, whiter smile!
What are Crowns/Caps?
Crowns are a permanent cosmetic procedure that cover the entire tooth. It can be done in as few as 2 visits.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth root. Made from titanium, a screw-like object is inserted directly into the 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 a crown 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 our 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 or bridge.
-
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 certain medical conditions.
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. We will make a minor incision to place the implant. The implant is placed into the jaw bone. The area will then be covered with sutures.
Your next appointment will be in approximately 3 months. We will take an impression so that our laboratory can fabricate a crown for the implant.
How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?
Fees vary depending on the situation. Please 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 over 30 years.
Does your office offer financing for services provided?
Please contact us to discuss the options we have available to make your perfect smile today!