Frequently Asked Questions

It is an advanced medical technology for the treatment of tooth loss. A titanium implant is placed at the toothless area of the jawbone. Later the jawbone fuses with the titanium providing a strong anchorage for the implant. This implant acts as the support for the dental prosthesis constructed over it.

To replace an individual missing tooth.

To anchor a bridge that will replace multiple teeth
To support dentures so that they are held firmly in place and won’t slip or move around when you talk or chew

Totally edentulous patients (missing all their teeth) can receive a full set of implants, depending on their oral health. An approach similar to the one used to replace multiple teeth is used. An implant can be placed to replace a missing single/multiple teeth without disturbing the patient’s natural teeth .

Unlike implants, bridges are held in place by being cemented to the teeth on either side of them after grinding. While implants help to prevent he jaw bone from deteriorating, the jawbone beneath a bridge will continue to deteriorate. This will cause your facial structure to change as well. A bridge may not work for areas where multiple teeth have been lost since a bridge must be cemented to surrounding teeth. Bridges also make it more difficult to care for natural teeth since you will not be able to floss.

Dental implants have many advantages over traditional tooth replacement methods. The materials used in implants are biocompatible with the human body and offer greater strength and comfort than traditional dentures and bridges. The key benefits of dental implants are;

Appearance: Implants look more natural than other replacement teeth.

Bone quality: Bone shrinkage, which happens in the jaw area when teeth are missing, is reduced or stopped by dental implants. The implants help to maintain or even build up the jawbone, retaining its shape.

No damage to other teeth: With implants, other teeth don’t have to be damaged to support a prosthetic.

Comfort: Implants are more comfortable than dentures and removable bridges.

Speech: Due to the stability of implants, speech is not impeded.

Eating: Implants are similar to natural teeth in terms of stability, so all foods can easily be chewed.

Convenience: Implants are secure, so they can’t be lost or move like dentures.

Reliability: Implants are permanent.

Self-esteem: Confidence is increased because of improved appearance and reliability.

Almost everyone that has lost a tooth, several teeth or even all of their teeth is a candidate for dental implants. There are very few situations in which implants are not indicated.

Those individuals who have lost their back teeth making it impossible to construct a conventional dental bridge. Those who have receding gums which affects the stability of  a denture . There must be enough space to accommodate the prosthesis over the implants. Your jaw must have enough bones to support the implant (if not bone grafting may be required).

Age appears not to be a factor for dental implant success.

The only thing to stand in the way of dental implant treatment in the elderly is general medical health. There are a number of medical conditions that can preclude treatment. Therefore, in addition to a general health history, a physical, blood studies and cardiograms may be required, as well as a release from your medical doctor.

Placing the implants and abutments at the same time, removing the need for the second surgical procedure. They are preferred if the patient posses adequate bone which will allow loading. Usually, if you need grafting or have an infected site it could not be the case, because you would hardly get a primary stability needed for temporization.

Standard dental implant treatment usually takes place in two stages:

Stage one: Any diseased or damaged teeth are extracted and the implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone. The accuracy of the implants are checked using an OPG X ray at each stage. The gums are sutured and the bone is then given time to fuse with the implants. The patient is usually given a temporary prosthesis to wear.

Stage two: Three to six months later, a small incision is made to the gum so that the abutments can be attached to the implants. Temporary crowns are added and the implants can now withstand the pressure applied during chewing. The dental professional will take impressions of the patient’s mouth, including the abutments, to create a cast. The final crowns are fitted precisely, using an X-ray to check the accuracy. They are then fixed, or loaded, on to the implants.

In Immediate loading implants the permanent crowns are fixed at the same time the implants are inserted.

Dental implants successfully integrate with the bone in more than 97% of the cases. In those few cases where an implant becomes loose, your oral surgeon will remove the implant and place a new one in a slightly different position to achieve better integration with the bone.

A periodontist, an oral surgeon, or an implantologist places dental implants.  The periodontist and oral surgeon are teamed with a restorative dentist.  They will place the implants and then the patient will be seen by a restorative dentist for completion of the crowns or overlying appliance.  There will be two dentists during the course of treatment. An implantologist is trained in both dental implant surgery and restoration of the dental prosthesis.  An implantologist will do both the surgery and the restoration, and there will be only one dentist during the course of treatment.

If your jawbone isn't thick enough or is too soft, you may need bone grafting before you can proceed with dental implant surgery. That's because the powerful chewing action of your mouth exerts great pressure on your bone, and if it can't support the implant, the surgery to replace your teeth would likely be a failure. A bone graft can create a much more solid base for the implant.

Each case varies regarding how many implants are needed for the demands of replacing the missing teeth. If the implant surgeon is limited regarding the length of implants that can be placed, more implants will be needed. The length if the implants is determined by how much bone you have present. A good consideration is to have enough implants built upon that if one implant fails, there are enough implants left which will prevent the failure of your whole implant reconstruction. "An implant failure should not mean a case failure".

OPG image,  CT scan and your medical history

By far, the most important part of getting a dental implant is the dentist you choose. Sometimes one dentist will place and restore the implant while other times one dentist will place the implant and another will restore the implant with a crown. The quality, experience and training of the dentist is the most important element in your care.

Today's implant treatment enables you to have your new teeth look, feel and function like your own. Even though others will be unaware you have dental implants, many patients are so pleased they tell everyone they know

Dental implants can last a lifetime if maintained properly and we can confidently say this because the first patient who had dental implants placed in 1965 still have his original implants inact even today.

But the life of implants depend on various factors:

High standard of treatment Meticulous cleaning by the patient on a daily basis Regular professional cleaning Avoidance of overloading (chewing bones/hard nuts) can contribute to the durability of the implant

The implant placement usually takes 45-60 minutes per implant, depending on the location and number of implants. It is usually done under local anesthesia and is not painful. Post placement your dentist may prescribe medication to alleviate any pain you mayhave.

Whereas no medical treatment can be guaranteed 100% without risks and failures, implant operation is considered to be very safe. So in summary dental implants are the only tooth replacement solution that can protect the health of your teeth, by simulating your natural tooth and tooth root structure.

Dental implant fees vary from case to case. Patients can expect individual quotes based on their specific needs. Here are a few things that impact cost of dental implants and may be beyond the control of the treating doctor.

1) Cost of dental implant surgery
Because dental implant surgery requires a team of professionals and the surgery requirements can vary from case to case, the implant cost is different for each person. If a patient requires additional things such as bone regeneration and sinus elevation, cost of dental implants can increase. The surgical phase may require initial bone grafts if there is insufficient bone. In the past, many patients simply were unable to have implants placed because of insufficient bone. Now with advanced techniques implants are again a viable option.

2) Type/Brand of Dental Implant
Basic dental implant pricing and fees varies based on type of implant system or brand you pick.

3) Cost of the crown (tooth placed at the top of the post)

4) Consider the potential of several implants and several crowns

5) Potential use of synthetic bone material during surgery

6) The Location of the Implant (which tooth)

You can go to work the next day, unless some particular surgical circumstance arises.  Your implant dentist will discuss all postoperative instructions with you.

Yes.!. We are using implants from the suppliers like 3M, Nobel Biocare etc. Nobel Biocare Implants come with a life time international warranty to ensure the utmost patient satisfaction. The Crowns and dental prosthesis are provided with warranty up to 15 years.

Dental implant treatment may qualify for some insurance coverage, but is generally limited to the coverage provided for a bridge or partial denture.

Implant supported teeth need to be brushed and cared for just like natural teeth, though flossing will be different. As with natural teeth, you will need to visit your dentist periodically for cleanings

The success of your implants will depend greatly on how well you maintain them. They will need to be professionally cleaned by a hygienist and examined by your implant dentist every three to four months.  This hygienist should be trained in the specific procedure of maintaining dental implants.  Also, brushing and flossing daily is absolutely necessary for long-term success.

When implants fail, there will be some bone loss which accompanies the loss of the implant or implants. If there is still adequate bone left, additional implants can be done. However, there are cases where additional implants can't be done after previously placed implants have failed due to the fact that there is not enough bone present anywhere which would allow for more implants.

Yes. It is important to not only have a professional cleaning done around the implants, but you also should have periodic implant check-ups with your implant surgeon regarding the health of the implants.

Contraindications of Dental Implants:
Implants can not be placed in these situations:

Heart:
Heart diseases affecting the valves (valvulopathy) Recent infarcts Severe cardiac insufficiency, cardiomyopathy
Miscellaneous:
Active cancer, certain bone diseases (osteomalacia, Paget’s disease, brittle bones syndrome, etc.), Certain immunological diseases, immunosuppressant treatments, clinical AIDS, awaiting an organ transplant, Certain mental diseases, Strongly irradiated jaw bones (radiotherapy treatment), Treatments of osteoporosis or some cancers by bisphosphonates
(as tablets: ACTONEL®, FOSAMAX®, DIDRONEL®, LYTOS®, SKELID® etc.
and PARTICULARLY as INJECTIONS: ZOMETA®, AREDIA® etc.), even several years before.
Age:
Children: not before the jaw bones have stopped growing (in general 17-18 years).
On the other hand advanced age does not pose problems if the patient’s general condition is good.

Please use e consultation  for an estimate.

A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form.

With advances in modern technology, root canal treatments are much easier to have done than they used to be. Most people report that it is similar to having a filing placed. Ask Dr. Sam and his staff about how we can make your visit more comfortable.

After your examination, treatment usually lasts for 60-90 minutes. In some cases, several visits are neccessary to get past obstructions and adequately clean the canals. Curved roots and calcified canals can also increase the complexity and therefore the treatment time.

Should I stop taking my medications before the visit?
No.  Patients should take all medications as prescribed by their doctor. A thorough review of your medical history will be done to ensure that our treatment does not interfere with the medications you are already taking.

When non-surgical root canal therapy (NSRCT) is complete, a temporary filling will be placed into the top of the tooth so that food and debris do not pack into the tooth. This will be soft for several hours. Plan for a soft meal after your visit, and avoid foods such as Doritos, popcorn, and nuts.

The pain that was caused by hot and cold will be gone immediately. However, it is common for teeth to be tender to chewing for one to two days after having a root canal. The vast majority of patients will only need mild over-the-counter pain medications to relieve the discomfort. If you have pain that lasts longer or is more severe, please contact Dr. Sam at the emergency number found on his card for assistance.

When a tooth's nerve tissue or pulp is damaged, it breaks down and bacteria begin to multiply within the pulp chamber. The bacteria and other decayed debris can cause an infection or abscessed tooth. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the end of the roots of the tooth. An abscess occurs when the infection spreads all the way past the ends of the roots of the tooth. In addition to an abscess, an infection in the root canal of a tooth can cause:
Swelling that may spread to other areas of the face, neck, or head Bone loss around the tip of the root Drainage problems extending outward from the root. A hole can occur through the side of the tooth with drainage into the gums or through the cheek with drainageinto the skin.

A tooth's nerve and pulp can become irritated, inflamed, and infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth, and/or large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the face.

Sometimes no symptoms are present; however, signs you may need a root canal include:
Severe toothache pain upon chewing or application of pressure Prolonged sensitivity/pain to heat or cold temperatures (after the hot or cold has been removed) Discoloration (a darkening) of the tooth Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums A persistent or recurring pimple on the gum

A root canal requires one or more office visits and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist. An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in the causes, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and injuries of the human dental pulp or the nerve of the tooth. The choice of which type of dentist to use depends to some degree on the difficulty of the root canal procedure needed in your particular tooth and the general dentist's comfort level in working on your tooth. Your dentist will discuss who might be best suited to perform the work in your particular case.

The first step in the procedure is to take an X-ray to see the shape of the root canals and determine if there are any signs of infection in a surrounding bone. Your dentist or endodontist will then use local anesthesia to numb the area near the tooth. Anesthesia may not be necessary, since the nerve is dead, but most dentists still anesthetize the area to make the patient more relaxed and at ease.

Next, to keep the area dry and free of saliva during treatment, your dentist will place a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) around the tooth.

An access hole will then be drilled into the tooth. The pulp along with bacteria, the decayed nerve tissue and related debris is removed from the tooth. The cleaning out process is accomplished using root canal files. A series of these files of increasing diameter are each subsequently placed into the access hole and worked down the full length of the tooth to scrape and scrub the sides of the root canals. Water orsodium hypochlorite is used periodically to flush away the debris.

Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it is sealed. Some dentists like to wait a week before sealing the tooth. For instance, if there is an infection, your dentist may put a medication inside the tooth to clear it up. Others may choose to seal the tooth the same day it is cleaned out. If the root canal is not completed on the same day, a temporary filling is placed in the exterior hole in the tooth to keep out contaminants like saliva and food between appointments.

At the next appointment, to fill the interior of the tooth, a sealer paste and a rubber compound called gutta percha is placed into the tooth's root canal. To fill the exterior access hole created at the beginning of treatment, a filling is placed.

The final step may involve further restoration of the tooth. Because a tooth that needs a root canal often is one that has a large filling or extensive decay or other weakness, a crown, crown and post, or other restoration often needs to be placed on the tooth to protect it, prevent it from breaking, and restore it to full function. Your dentist will discuss the need for any additional dental work with you.

Root canal procedures have the reputation of being painful. Actually, most people report that the procedure itself is no more painful than having a filling placed.

For the first few days following the completion of a root canal, the tooth may feel sensitive due to natural tissue inflammation, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This sensitivity or discomfort usually can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen(Aleve). Most patients can return to their normal activities the next day.

Until your root canal procedure is completely finished -- that is to say, the permanent filling is in place and/or the crown, it's wise to minimize chewing on the tooth under repair. This step will help avoid recontamination of the interior of the tooth and also may prevent a fragile tooth from breaking before the tooth can be fully restored.

As far as oral health care is concerned, brush and floss as you regularly would and see your dentist at normally scheduled intervals.

Root canal treatment is highly successful; the procedure has more than a 95% success rate. Many teeth fixed with a root canal can last a lifetime.

Also, because the final step of the root canal procedure is application of a restoration such as a crown or a filling, it will not be obvious to onlookers that a root canal was performed.

Despite your dentist's best efforts to clean and seal a tooth, new infections might emerge after a root canal. Among the likely reasons for this include:
More than the normally anticipated number of root canals in a tooth (leaving one of them uncleaned) An undetected crack in the root of a tooth A defective or inadequate dental restoration that has allowed bacteria to get past the restoration into the inner aspects of the tooth and recontaminate the area A breakdown of the inner sealing material over time, allowing bacteria to recontaminate the inner aspects of the tooth

Sometimes retreatment can be successful, other times endodontic surgery must be tried in order to save the tooth. The most common endodontic surgical procedure is an apicoectomy or root-end resection. This procedure relieves the inflammation or infection in the bony area around the end of your tooth that continues after endodontic treatment. In this procedure, the gum tissue is opened, the infected tissue is removed, and sometimes the very end of the root is removed. A small filling may be placed to seal the root canal.

Saving your natural teeth is the very best option, if possible. Your natural teeth allow you to eat a wide variety of foods necessary to maintain proper nutrition. The root canal procedure is the treatment of choice.

The only alternative to a root canal procedure is having the tooth extracted and replaced with a bridge, implant, or removable partial denture to restore chewing function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting. These alternatives not only are more expensive than a root canal procedure but require more treatment time and additional procedures to adjacent teeth and supporting tissues.

Single sitting root canal treatment is becoming very popular these days. The single visit root canals are very common with the patients and dentists these days. Everyone wants to finish the treatment as soon as possible due to fast pace life style and less time. Also people finding the dental appointment not to be a pleasant experience want to get the work done at the earliest. The dentists also can earn big sum of money in less time therefore single sitting root canal treatments are gaining popularity these days. One-visit endodontics offers the advantages like more profitable for the dentist, less traumatic for the patient and also less time consuming and more cost friendly. But single-visit root canal treatment cannot be done in all the cases. In cases where the pulp is infected and associated with periapical infection and in cases of draining sinus of pus the root canals should be ideally cleaned and medicatements placed, and the canals filled at subsequent visits on elimination of the infection completely. Usually any single visit at a dentist could last about 30 to 60 mins.

The main reason why we suggest single sitting RCT is that the patient is in much pain and the decay is moving towards the nerves of the mouth. Apart from these, some other prominent reasons include:

An injury has occurred in the teeth and it is at exposure to the nerve. A severe sensitivity of the teeth is making it impossible for the patient to consume hot or cold liquid and even food items. Non Vital teeth with no acute symptoms. Near Pulpal Carious exposure requiring RCT Prophylactically When there is an acute infection with no pus accumulation in &around the tooth, root canal treatment can be completed in a single sitting

Less traumatic for the patient also less time consuming and more cost friendly

A toothbrush will remove plaque bacteria that can lead to decay. Any soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants, should be used at least once a day at bedtime.

In order to prevent dental problems, your child should see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday.

Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. A pediatric dentist has two to three years specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only. Pediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.

Primary, or "baby," teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.

First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen for any pain, rather than placing aspirin on the teeth or gums. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.

Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers past the age of three, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist.

Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bed-time bottle. Also, learn the proper way to brush and floss your child's teeth. Take your child to a pediatric dentist regularly to have his/her teeth and gums checked. The first dental visit should be scheduled by your child's first birthday.

A check-up every six months is recommended in order prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, your pediatric dentist can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their personal oral health.

The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Use a "smear" of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a "pea-size" amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively.Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.

Make sure your child has a balanced diet, including one serving each of: fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, milk and dairy products, and meat fish and eggs. Limiting the servings of sugars and starches will also aid in protecting your child's teeth from decay. You can also ask your pediatric dentist to help you select foods that protect your children's teeth.

Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.

Have your pediatric dentist evaluate the fluoride level of your child's primary source of drinking water. If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water (especially if the fluoride level is deficient or if your child drinks bottled water without fluoride), then your pediatric dentist may prescribe fluoride supplements.

Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. A custom-fitted mouthguard developed by a pediatric dentist will protect your child from injuries to the teeth, face and even provide protection from severe injuries to the head.

The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to the pediatric dentist.

There is very little risk in dental X-rays. Pediatric dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which children are exposed. Lead aprons and high-speed film are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation.

Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly, beginning with the eruption of the first tooth. Then, the dentist can recommend a specific program of brushing, flossing, and other treatments for parents to supervise and teach to their children. These home treatments, when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits.

Laser dentistry procedure uses a high-technology laser device to generate a specific beam of concentrated light. The light focuses energy into your mouth and can remove areas of tooth decay or gum infection with a high level of accuracy. The laser beam cauterizes and sterilizes the affected area, so that bleeding, pain, and the chance of infection are all minimal.

Laser dentistry helps improve the precision of your treatment while minimizing recovery time, yet only about 5 percent of all dentists use laser dentistry today.

This new technique can improve the precision of your treatment with minimal pain and a speedier recovery. Other benefits include:

Minimal damage to the surrounding tissue Some procedures with lasers don't require sutures Some don't require anesthesia Minimal bleeding due to high-energy light beams which inhibits blood loss Minimal bacterial infections because the light beams sterilize the area Wounds heal faster and tissues can regenerate

There are many different types of lasers used in dentistry, and their applications vary. In general, laser dentistry can:

Remove tooth decay and old metal fillings Desensitize teeth Treat gum disease and ulcers Create microscopic fillings Sterilize infected root canals Shape teeth and lengthen crowns Place dental implants

Albert Einstein first introduced the concept of lasers. These devices were used on teeth and gums experimentally, shortly following their invention in the 1960s. However, lasers have been used in widespread dentistry for about the past 10 years, and have become increasingly popular in local dental offices. Dr. Alhadef uses the latest in laser technology, Biolase Technology's Waterlase MD system, which can be used not only for soft tissue procedures, but for hard tissue procedures as well, virtually eliminating the need for a drill.

Dental lasers are approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). With adequate training and proper eye protection, laser dentistry is very safe. Compared to the traditional dentist drill, lasers actually reduce the chance of accidental injury to your cheek, gums and tongue because they are so precise. Their precision also allows dentists to pinpoint treatment, which destroys less of your tooth while producing less friction. Less heat and vibration also results in less pain.

Treatment, which destroys less of your tooth while producing less friction. Less heat and vibration also results in less pain.

Laser teeth whitening is the most advanced way to whiten your teeth and has been gaining popularity these days due to the great advantages that it could offer people who choose it over other teeth whitening methods or procedures.

Yes it is! Decades of scientific research and treatment by dentists prove that laser teeth whitening is both 100% safe and effective, provided it’s carried out by qualified technicians using quality systems; which statement accurately describes Laser Treatments!

Yes! As teeth whitening specialists, we’ve invested in the best Kavo German  laser technology . In fact our lasers may be more advanced than equipment used by many dentists.  Your gums, lips and lining of your mouth are protected at all times. While many competitors still use older, less effective techniques, our laser whitening system instantly gives the best result.

The first advantage of laser teeth whitening is that you can achieve instant results in just an hour. This is the main reason people opt for this treatment. The first visit will be the last , while saving an extra trip to the Dentist. Since there are no follow ups, laser teeth whitening is a great option.

This kind of treatment will not cause any pain or discomfort, so anesthesia is not a consideration. Each procedure is performed by a Dentist eliminating any risk of irritation or other mouth problems due to contact with the gel. A certified Dentist will know the exact concentration of gel to ensure proper comfort and maximum results. Dentists have all the training and experience to perform such treatments so you can rest assured that the your safety is looked after.

The best advantage of laser teeth whitening would be the results you achieve right after the treatment. Your teeth will become 6-8 shades lighter than the original color and you can immediately see result when the treatment is done. Unlike some teeth whitening methods, you will not have to wait for weeks and even months to see dramatic results.

Laser light activates and accelerates the oxidisation action of the whitening gell, for optimum results. Even old crowns and veneers can be restored to their former whiteness.

Because we use the most advanced lasers, treatment is quick, safe & effective. A single 60-minute laser tooth whitening appointment is all it takes for years of built-up tooth discoloration to be removed completely.

While laser teeth whitening will not change the colour of NEW crowns or veneers, OLD crowns, veneers or fillings can be restored their original colour. Individual results may vary, but most normally healthy people can benefit.

Laser teeth whitening results vary from person to person, but our teeth whitening system can lighten teeth on average up to 14 shades.

Even a change of just two or three shades will make a significant difference; the goal being to achieve your individual optimum whiteness while still looking natural.

Results can be expected to last 12-18 months depending on whether you smoke or eat staining foods. Most clients have a 60 minute “top-up” annually to keep their teeth looking fresh, clean and white all year.

Most clients do not experience any discomfort during treatment. Mild sensitivity is felt for some patients for few hours.

Whilst it is scientifically proven that there are NO side effects associated with laser teeth whitening, some people may experience slight sensitivity for an hour or so after treatment. These symptoms normally disappear quickly.

It is  advisable to have your teeth cleaned  and polished before treatment  for better results.

No, in cases involving severe discoloration, teeth whitening may not result in a bright, white smile. Individuals with severe tooth discoloration should consider other options, such as porcelain veneers or composite bonding.

No research has been done into bleaching teeth during pregnancy or nursing, so manufacturers for liability reasons recommend not bleaching during pregnancy or nursing.

It is recommended to avoid such beverages during whitening and for 1 week after tooth bleaching.

No. Results vary. Some teeth whiten dramatically in just a few days, while others may take weeks to months to show a difference, if any. The more yellow versus gray color you have in your teeth, the better the bleaching result. Grey enamel similar to that of Tetracycline (antibiotic) staining is more difficult to bleach.

Make sure that while using home bleaching, bleach covers the entire surface of the tooth and not just the bottom half. The average tooth will usually have a seamless whitening transition from whiter at the bottom of the tooth (biting surface) to less white towards the gum line. This is normal and an expected result. This is due to thinner enamel in this area allowing more show through the tooth color. Very few cases have total uniform whiteness. With grayish teeth, the transition is somewhat more noticeable. One might see a demarcation area/line between the 2 areas. Keep in mind that whitening fades and the tooth will in most instances gradually blend. In some cases that are extremely resistant to bleaching, one might consider bonding or veneers as an alternative treatment.

White spots commonly come from too much fluoride during tooth development. This condition is known as Fluorosis. Although it might look imperfect, these teeth are extremely resistant to cavities. White spots can also occur after orthodontic treatment in the area of orthodontic brackets. This is decalcification, as a result of inadequate hygiene and in these situations these areas are more susceptible to cavities.

There has been no research conducted on bleaching and kids. There have been a few cases reported in the literature with no adverse effects besides temporary tooth sensitivity. We recommend waiting until all the teeth have fully erupted; otherwise the un-erupted tooth portion will not be bleached properly. Bleaching is not advised for individuals below 18 years of age.

Cosmetic dentistry is dental treatment that improves the beauty and health of one's smile.. Nearly every dental procedure has 2 elements: Aesthetics and function. A quality cosmetic dentist takes both of these elements into consideration; so that one may rest assured they will not only look great, but enjoy hassle free long-term results.

Cosmetic dentistry covers a multitude of procedures from smile teeth whitening to repairing, straightening, replacing or enhancing the appearance of one’s teeth and smile. Most common is the use of Cosmetic Veneers or Laminates. These thin, but durable restorations are much more conservative to the natural tooth than traditional crowns, and have become a very popular way to enhance a smile. In certain procedures dental bonding can be a way to shape teeth as well.

Cosmetic dentistry provides more than just a beautiful smile and a healthy mouth. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), cosmetic dentistry has also been shown to improve a person's overall health and emotional well-being. An improved smile can boost a person's self-image, making them more confident in their daily

This will depend on your personal goals and on what final results you'd like to see. Some smile makeovers may consist of as few as one or two short procedures, such as dental bonding and teeth whitening; whereas others may require more extensive work, including porcelain veneers, dental implants, and other, more time consuming procedures.

The most obvious advantage of having a full smile makeover is that you end up with the smile you've always wanted - the color, the structure, and the function of strong, healthy, bright and beautiful teeth, another advantage is that in some cases, cosmetic dental procedures may be redundant or may actually require more time and expense when done separately; so addressing your cosmetic dentistry needs as a whole can save you time and money in the long run.

The most obvious advantage of having a full smile makeover is that you end up with the smile you've always wanted, the color, the structure, and the function of strong, healthy, bright and beautiful teeth.

Today's materials, such as veneers, are actually stronger than natural teeth, and are far more resistant to wearing and breakage than your natural teeth. With regular checkups and care, your smile should last for many years.

The procedures may include any one or a combination of the following:
•    Porcelain veneers/laminates

White filings Crowns Bridges Teeth whitening

Anyone is a good candidate for a smile makeover, if you do not feel confident in the way your teeth or smile looks because of a chip on a tooth, crowding, misalignment, or staining.

Luckily, your options for correcting crooked teeth mean you don't have to endure the uncomfortable metal braces of the past!  Numerous other cosmetic dentistry techniques exist that can provide “instant orthodontics” that require no braces at all. Composite bonding and the application of porcelain veneers are both conservative ways to mask the appearance of crooked teeth. Be aware that these cosmetic approaches cannot address orthodontic issues such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, and therefore are not suitable for every patient.

If you have crooked teeth and would like to achieve a more beautiful smile through premier cosmetic dentistry treatments, visit Astoria Dental Group for a free consultation. At this meeting, one of our dentists will diagnose your specific issues and recommend a course of treatment.

The placement of tooth-colored composite fillings is one of the most commonly performed general dentistry procedures at Exodus Dental Care. In addition to filling new cavities, these beautiful restorations can replace old metal fillings that have blackened, fractured, popped out, or that simply take away from the beauty of your smile.

This varies with each individual, depending on the need. Sometimes, you can dramatically improve your oral health and appearance in just a couple of visits. Most dentists will work to make your treatment as convenient as possible, perhaps choosing slightly longer visits instead of frequent trips to the office. Discuss your goals and concerns with your dentist so the best plan can be developed for your individual situation. If you start today, a new smile can be yours sooner than you think.

Porcelain is a very smooth material that resists permanent staining. Porcelain veneers do not stain when they are exposed to coffee, cigarettes, tea and wine. With diligent brushing, stains and plaque will not build up on the porcelain surface.

Porcelain veneers have the appearance of real teeth. A tooth is naturally translucent. Porcelain veneers are made of porcelain and will give you the appearance of a natural smile.

There are health benefits as well as aesthetic ones. The health benefits include less risk of overloaded or worn down teeth, and teeth that are easier to clean and care for.

Teeth that have been straightened, repaired or replaced mean less risk of decay and infections.  On the aesthetic side of things, your teeth will look and feel much better. You will have a clear, white smile which will improve your confidence and overall well-being.

If you have undergone some form of facial rejuvenation such as Botox or dermal filler, then this can take years off your age. It can restore a youthful, rounded appearance and promote increased well-being. Patients often report a pride in their new smile, as well as feeling more confident in social or work-related situations.

There are no known medical complications with a smile makeover, although no dental procedure is risk-free.

The duration of your smile makeover will extend if you look after your teeth and have regular dental checkups. You will also require maintenance treatments such as repeat teeth whitening, as your teeth will start to lose brightness over time.

Composite bonding is prone to staining after a period of time and will need to be enhanced or replaced. Crowns or bridges will have to be replaced after 10 years or more.

Cosmetic dental techniques have advanced dramatically over the last decade. The qualities of materials such as porcelain and composite resins have improved, giving a more lifelike appearance. And, where gum-tissue surgery and contouring was once performed with scalpels, lasers now provide fast, non-surgical results.

If you are happy with the shape and color of your teeth, then orthodontic teeth straightening  may be a good option for you. If you want to whiten and enhance the shape of your teeth as well as straighten them, then cosmetic dentistry will give you the results you are looking for while saving you time and money. Clear teeth aligners provide a great alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign is the latest generation of “invisible” teeth aligners. Though not always necessary, some people will choose to undergo some teeth straightening prior to be fitted with cosmetic veneers.

Modern metal-free dentistry has evolved to a point where we can be much more conservative with tooth preparation. A dental veneer is essentially a conservative crown. Rather than encompassing the entire tooth, a cosmetic veneer, essentially covers the visible part of a tooth preserving a large amount of the natural tooth structure. Veneers can straighten, lengthen and whiten teeth to provide the desired smile and bite. Each veneered tooth must be shaped. This means that an outer layer of the natural tooth structure is removed to allow space for veneer placement.

When "seated" correctly, veneers are strong and can last for many years, even a lifetime with good oral care.

Porcelain veneers are non-porous and will not stain or discolor.

Bonding is done by placing tooth-like material onto the tooth to build it up and/or to alter its shape. Over time the bonded portion of a tooth will change color as compared to the natural, un-bonded portion of the tooth. The advantage of bonding is that it is an ultra-conservative way to restore a tooth and is completed in one visit. The disadvantage is that it will discolor over time and is more prone to breakage than a veneer.

Many restorations are designed with a metal lining covered with porcelain (porcelain fused to metal or PFM). They appear "flat" because the metal does not let light pass through like a natural tooth does. There is often a dark line next to the gum line that is undesirable (often the metal irritates the adjacent gum tissue in the form of an allergic reaction). Always inquire! Dentists will say that it is porcelain. And it is…on the outside. Exodus Dental Care provides 100% all-porcelain restorations. When properly seated, they are as strong as or stronger than their metal predecessors. And the appearance is strikingly similar to a natural tooth, allowing light to pass through (referred to as translucency).

Sometimes people have too much gum tissue or there is an asymmetry of the tissue across the smile. The solution is simple. A specialized soft-tissue laser can remove the excessive gum tissue. There is always a margin of tissue that can safely be removed to further enhance a smile. This non-surgical and pain-free procedure is completed in a matter of minutes.

Cosmetic dental work is probably not as expensive as you think. The cost of cosmetic dentistry depends on how much you want or need. Like any cosmetic process, costs will vary with the amount of product or services you desire. A skilled cosmetic dentist can explain various fees and the best procedure for you.

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Braces, Aligners and other appliances/devices are used to make these corrections by moving teeth and bones.

Just as there are specialists in medicine (such as cardiologists, gastroenterologists, dermatologists, etc.), there are specialists in dentistry. Orthodontists are dental specialists who dedicate their lives to correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Teeth and sometimes faces are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment; therefore, it is very important that the treatment be done properly. Only about 6 % of US dentists have the additional education required to be licensed and recognized as an orthodontic specialist. A licensed orthodontic specialist is a expert at moving teeth, helping jaws develop properly and working with you to help make sure the teeth stay in their new positions. Remember that most orthodontic insurance plans pay for braces only once in a lifetime. Have a orthodontic specialist do it right that one time!

What kind of formal orthodontic training have you had beyond dental school? Are you licensed as an orthodontist? Do you treat all orthodontic cases, even the most complex? Have orthodontists finished orthodontic work that you have started?

No. They are elective but people seldom grow out of the more severe problems. Braces treatment can prevent other unpleasant problems from developing later in life. The newly developed brace-less Clear Aligner Therapies are an alternative to braces for some types of bites.

It is most important to examine your child's teeth as the permanent teeth grow in. Although children mature at different rates, there are some averages for permanent tooth arrival. Some signs that may indicate the need for an early orthodontic examination:

early or late loss of baby teeth difficulty chewing or biting crowding, malpositioned, or blocked out teeth jaws that make sounds biting the cheek or roof of the mouth teeth that do not meet at all jaws and teeth that are out of proportion to the rest of the face finger sucking or pacifier habits continued beyond the age of six top front teeth stick out, protrude or are "bucked" baby teeth that do not grow to full height like their neighbors top front teeth grow in behind the bottom front teeth top front teeth cover more than 25% of the bottom front teeth when the back teeth are biting together weak chin or prominent chin neighboring teeth shifting into bad positions when a tooth between them has been removed centers of the top and bottom front teeth don't line up teeth wearing unevenly jaws that shift off center when the teeth bite together excessive spaces between teeth that persist after the top permanent canine teeth appear embarrassing teeth or smile often hidden by hands

Every child should see an orthodontist at an early age. This could be from approx 8 yrs of age. By age 8, enough permanent teeth have come in and enough jaw growth has occurred, that problems can be identified. Early consultation allows the orthodontist to determine the optimum time for treatment to begin. Many parents and some family dentists assume that they must wait until a child has all of his or her permanent teeth, only to find out that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier.

If detected early, many of the facial irregularities like protruded/retruded lower jaw, excess/deficient upper jaw, narrow arches etc could be corrected easily by using functional appliances. Early treatment can eliminate the need for more drastic measures. In some cases, satisfactory results are unattainable once the face and jaws have finished growing. With proper timing, children may not have to endure years of embarrassment. In addition, girls are beginning puberty at a younger age. The age at which girls begin puberty has fallen in the past two decades, and a new study shows this trend is continuing in some populations.

Who should come to the initial consultation besides the patient?
If you rely heavily on the opinion of others before making treatment commitments, you are encouraged to bring all the decision makers with you to this consultation. They can be taking notes while you listen or act as a sounding board. Your orthodontist doesn't want information lost in translation if decision maker does not come and you have to relay the consultation outcome to them.

The reason that treatment is needed. The optimal time for starting treatment. The treatment approach that will be used. The length of treatment. The expected appearance when treatment is completed. The past success rate of the recommended treatment with other patients. The pros and cons of treatment. The treatment cost and financing options. The possible outcome if nothing is done.

No. The space available for the front teeth does not increase after the permanent 6 year molars erupt. In most people, the space available for the front teeth decreases with increasing age.

Early treatment provides the opportunity to:

guide the growth of the young jaw bones creating a better environment for those new emerging permanent teeth guide incoming teeth into optimal positions regulate the width of the jaws lower the risk of trauma to prominent front teeth correct harmful sucking habits reduce the likelihood of teeth becoming stuck or impacted under the gums preserve or gain space for arriving permanent teeth allow easier correction if found early

Just as we inherit eye color from our parents, mouth and jaw features are also inherited. Examples of these genetic problems are crowding, spacing, protrusion, extra or missing teeth and some jaw growth problems. Some other bad bites are acquired as local factors such as finger sucking, pacifier sucking, high cavity rate, gum disease, trauma and premature loss of baby teeth can also contribute to a bad bite. One out of every five school age children have a severe bite problem so it is not surprising that you might need braces.

Poorly arranged teeth can break easily and can trap food particles that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Malocclusions interfere with the chewing ability to break down foods which affects digestion and overall health. Crooked teeth can cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, difficulty speaking, and excess stress on supporting bone and gum tissue. Without treatment many problems become worse. Finally, poorly arranged teeth detract from your smile which is one of the more important features contributing to facial beauty. You only have one chance to make that first impression!

Braces use steady, gentle pressure over time to move teeth into their proper positions. They don't look like they're doing much just sitting there. but in fact, every moment or your orthodontic treatment, there's something happening in your mouth. Something good for you. The brackets we place on your teeth and the main arch wire that connects them, are the two main components. The bracket is a piece of specially shaped metal or ceramic that we affix to each tooth. Then we bend the arch wire to reflect your 'ideal" bite (what we want you to look like after treatment). The wire threads through the brackets and, as the wire tries to return to its original shape, it applies pressure to actually move your teeth. Picture your tooth resting in your jaw bone. With pressure on one side from the arch wire, the bone on the other side gives way. The tooth moves. New bone grows in behind. It may look like nothing is happening but we're making a new smile here. Thanks to new materials and procedures, all this happens much quicker than ever before. It's kind of an engineering feat.

Yes, the teeth will move in different directions as the teeth are straightening out. You may see a space between your two front teeth that was never there before or teeth that seemed perfectly straight before the braces were placed may not seem as straight. Be patient and things will start to improve. That space will close and those teeth will line up as treatment continues.

Yes, if you are an adult or a mature teen with only 1 - 6 millimeters of crowding or spacing of your front teeth and no missing or severely tipped teeth. A series of 3-D computer generated invisible aligners may allow creation of a beautiful smile for you without glued on braces. This advanced technology does not correct bites that are due to jaw bone malpositioning.  Many patients will receive a superior result with a combination of  a short period of traditional braces to correct problems that are difficult for clear aligners to correct followed by Invisalign aligners to complete tooth alignment.

Rubber bands or elastics contribute a lot to straighter teeth. They are marvels of physics. Attached to your braces, elastics exert the force that creates the right amount of pressure to move teeth in directions that the braces alone can't. They don't work without you. It's important to wear your elastics as prescribed. Rubber bands get tired and lose their stretch so change them every day so the force is constant which the teeth like. A lack of consistency in wearing rubber bands can bring treatment to a standstill and who wants to do that to themselves. Teeth never fail to move when elastics are worn consistently as directed. As for bouncing an elastic off someone across the room, it will happen (don't worry, your aim will improve). Always carry a few rubber bands with you so if one breaks, you can replace it right away. If your supply is low call us and e can mail you more rubber bands.

If you use makeup, use it to draw attention away from your mouth. Go wild using eye shadow and keep the lips simple with beige or nothing at all. Stay away from lip gloss that makes the metal parts of braces more reflective. Ask for clear braces.

Our teeth are covered with enamel. Enamel is susceptible to dissolving/softening in acids created when certain bacteria/germs living on a tooth's surface, eat sugar. Soda and sports drinks contain sugar and acid like preservatives. Take a look at the contents label on the drink. Frequent sipping drinks throughout the day is particularly punishing on your teeth. If brushing is not adequate, if a person frequently drinks several of these beverages a day or if super sized drinks are consumed, the enamel dissolves/demineralizes leaving permanent white spots on the teeth. In addition, when enamel is softened by exposure to these drinks, the enamel is at increased danger of being worn away leaving your smile look prematurely aged. Who wants a spotted smile with teeth that look 90 years old? Drink tap water whose fluoride content is carefully monitored and confine eating healthy foods to mealtimes without in between meal snacks.

Conventional braces on the left are tied in with elastics, which cause friction and pressure, making treatment slower and less comfortable. Self ligating braces  use a slide mechanism to hold the wire, which allows teeth to move more freely, quickly and comfortably.

Space maintainers are appliances that keep adjacent teeth from shifting when a baby tooth is prematurely lost or removed. They are critical when the baby tooth lost is just in front of the first permanent molar. The space maintainer needs to be placed quickly after the baby tooth loss because most of the harmful shifting of adjacent teeth will occur within the first three months after the baby tooth is lost. The shifting of adjacent teeth can cause permanent teeth to become impacted or stuck under the bone.

Braces may or may not improve jaw joint problems. More conservative approaches should be tried first.

No. If the bone and gum tissue around the teeth are healthy, age is not a factor. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at almost any age. About one in every five orthodontic patients today is over age 18. Adults who are in the pursuit of a healthier, younger, appearance include straightening their smile as part of their total body improvement plan. The oldest patient we have treated was a very young 83.

If a patient leaves his or her aligner off for as little as 4 hours, the osteoclastic process of breaking down bone material can stop completely. Once this osteoclastic process stops, it can take 48-72 hours to fully get going again. A patient who regularly removes his or her aligner for long periods will be restarting the osteoclastic process over and over again, and probably won't experience good results.

You'll have to give up extremely hard, sticky, and high sugar foods. These foods can get caught on the braces, bend wires, loosen cement and pull the braces off and/or cause cavities and permanent white marks. Soft foods or foods cut into small pieces are much better. You'll have to spend a few extra minutes cleaning your braces after meals. But, for the most part, you'll find braces don't cramp your style. You'll still have fun. You'll still be able to sing, play your musical instrument, smile, play sports and of course, kiss. You can even make a fashion statement by having your orthodontist add color to your braces. Your friends will be accustomed to you in braces more quickly than you think.

That depends a lot on you and how bad your bite is to begin with. Complex/severe bad bites take longer. The national average is 12-15 months. The better you are following your orthodontist's instructions and taking care of your braces, the sooner your teeth will improve. Remember that no one else can wear your braces for you!

In most cases, yes. Phase One treatment strives to create a better environment for the permanent teeth. Phase One treatment is often initiated to 1) prevent a problem from developing 2) intercept a developing problem, or 3) guide the growth of the jaws that support the teeth. After the permanent teeth have grown in, treatment is usually necessary to complete the work that was started in the Phase One. This completion of the earlier phase using full braces is often called Phase Two.

This growth/observation period will involve a combination of retaining the correction that has been made in Phase One and guiding the growth of the permanent teeth into more favorable positions. Because treatment timing is critical, a child's growth and development is monitored very carefully during this period.

Baby teeth hold room for the permanent teeth that will come in later. A lower lingual arch space maintainer can be placed when the baby canine and baby molars are getting loose or fall out prematurely. The space maintainer prevents the lower back permanent molar from slipping forward and prevents the lower front permanent incisor teeth  from tipping toward the tongue. This saves or preserves the maximum amount of space for the permanent teeth (canines and bicuspids) that grow between the permanent back molar and the permanent lower incisors.

They use headgear/night brace which applies pressure to the upper teeth and jaw,  lip bumpers which applies pressure to the lower molar teeth and restrains lip pressure away from the lower front teeth, expanders which apply sideways pressure to the teeth to widen the jaws the teeth are imbedded in, springs which move teeth away from one another, Herbst which holds the lower jaw forward encouraging the bone and jaw muscles to support the lower jaw in this new forward position and sophisticated removable "retainer like" appliances. Some of these approaches take advantage the fact that bone is pliable or flexible and can be pushed, pulled and reshaped.

Only if your orthodontist cannot save or make enough room for all your teeth. Don't worry, if you have teeth pulled, recovery is about 2 days for most patients. Your orthodontist will close the spaces and no one will even notice.

If your permanent front teeth do not have enough room to grow in properly, it is sometimes advisable to remove certain baby teeth in sequence. Removing/extracting baby teeth is like robbing Peter to pay Paul. Room is gained for the front permanent teeth by borrowing room from the teeth along the sides. Eventually the borrowed/loaned space must be repaid, by using orthodontic appliances to increase the space or by taking permanent teeth out. Why do serial extraction at all? Because carefully timed early extractions may prevent unfavorable positioning of permanent teeth and damage to the roots of adjacent teeth.

Patients grow at different rates and speed of the biological process that allows teeth to move can vary between patients. Slower than normal tooth growth, multiple problems often occurring together as in a "syndrome" and poor patient cooperation are the two things that lengthen treatment the most and both are out of the direct control of the orthodontist.

Studies show that people's teeth may shift as they age. This maturational shift continues to some degree throughout life. The most common change is crowding of the bottom front teeth. Surprisingly, careful studies have shown that third molars or wisdom teeth, do not cause or contribute to this crowding. Wearing retainers can minimize tooth position changes of this type.

First, ask your child "Why?" If your child has misconceptions, have your orthodontist address them. If a reasonable explanation to all of your child's objections does not change your child's mind, then don't push or force them into braces. Consider the newly developed brace-less Invisalign teen as an alternative to braces. Everybody loses when a child begins treatment against their will. Circumstances may change over time and your child may become more receptive even if that takes growing into adulthood. You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink.

Referral from your family dentist is not mandatory unless you are in a managed care plan with a "gatekeeper" primary care dentist. Bringing a referral form from your family dentist helps communicate your dentist's concerns more clearly. Word of mouth recommendations from friends and families of existing patients is often the primary way orthodontists meet new patients. Spread the word if you like your orthodontist!

Instant Orthodontics is not orthodontics at all in you define orthodontics as moving teeth to straighten them. Instant Orthodontics is performed by non orthodontists. They leave the roots of crooked teeth crooked and place crowns or veneers on the top half of the teeth to make them look straight.

Short Term Orthodontics is straightening the front teeth for appearances while leaving the malocclusion or bad bite of the rear teeth untouched. Proponents of this approach are recruiting dentists with ads stating "No previous ortho experience needed (Perfect for general dentists)". Many orthodontists would say this type of treatment borders on unethical and does meet the traditional standard of orthodontic care.

Where damage to a person's teeth is extreme, and apparently beyond repair, we can use porcelain or porcelain "fused on gold" crowns to make the smile appear "as new". This is an extremely reliable technique for repairing the most severe of dental problems, even permanently replacing missing teeth to offer a complete smile and a functional bite. We are known for the quality of our work and the fantastic changes we make for people using this technology. These treatments are used for a long lasting correction of major dental problems. It is usual for these treatments to last for 15 plus years, which is as close to permanent as dental treatment can get.

Fitting a crown requires at least two visits to our office in a span of 3 days. Initially, we will remove decay, shape the tooth, and fit it with a temporary crown made of an acrylic material. We take pride in making our crowns in Dent Care Dental Lab, Asia’s biggest dental lab with the best quality materials. We also take pride in giving warranty of min 15 years for all the crowns and bridges that we deliver. On the subsequent visit we will remove the temporary crown, and then fit and adjust the final crown. Finally, we will cement the crown into place and you have a new beautiful looking tooth.

Offers structural support to misshapen teeth or badly broken teeth Looks completely natural Fixes "smile" and functional chewing problems.

Crown and bridgework is a very reliable solution for major dental problems caused through accidents, diseases or wear and tear. Major problems can usually be corrected using these techniques. Material used in these repairs is either high-grade porcelain, or porcelain bonded to gold. The higher strength of porcelain and gold materials is recommended to treat the most serious of dental problems. Where accidental damage has occurred, resulting in lost teeth, or where teeth have broken away through excessive wear, or as the result of old fillings breaking, crowns and/or bridges can be used as a long-term solution.

Many people have unexplained pain from filled back teeth, which is usually due to hairline cracks in the chewing part of the tooth. Placing crowns on these teeth relieves the pain and allows a return of full dental function for these teeth. In front teeth, older fillings can both weaken the teeth and cause "appearance" problems due to staining or chipping. Porcelain crowns and bridges are suitable in cases where porcelain veneers are not. In teeth with root canal fillings, crowns can prevent breakage.

When a tooth has an old deteriorated filling or one with new decay around it, a new restoration is required. A decision needs to made; do we replace the filling with a new one, or do we place a crown or onlay (partial crown, This decision is based on the relative amount of strong, healthy tooth structure AFTER the old filling, decay and corrosion are cleaned out. If enough solid tooth is available to support a filling we choose that simpler, less involved alternative. However, if the remaining tooth is severely hollowed and "shell-like", it then needs to be protected with a restoration which envelops the weakened tooth. This will help resist further cracking or fracture, which could then cause need for root canal, gum surgery or even tooth loss.

A bridge — a device used to replace missing teeth — attaches artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth, called abutment teeth. Bridges are permanently attached . Fixed bridges are applied by either placing crowns on the abutment teeth or by bonding the artificial teeth directly to the abutment teeth. Removable bridges are attached to the teeth with metal clasps or by precision attachments.

If you're missing one or more teeth, you may be aware of their importance to your appearance and dental health. Your teeth work together for many daily functions from eating to speaking. With missing teeth, it's difficult to do these things. Missing teeth can and should be replaced. Fixed bridges are a great way to restore your dental health and appearance.

A bridge (fixed partial denture) is a device, which fills the gap where teeth are absent. Fixed bridges are bonded into place and can only be removed by a dental professional. Removable bridges, as the name implies, can be taken out and cleaned. Fixed bridges offer more stability than their removable counterparts, and feel more natural.

Oral functionality and appearance are important reasons for wearing a bridge. A bridge helps support your lips and cheeks. The loss of a back tooth may cause your mouth to sink and your face to look older.

Dental health is the most important reason for a bridge. Teeth were designed to complement each other. Unusual stresses are placed on the gums and other oral tissues when teeth are missing, causing a number of potentially harmful disorders.

Increased risk of gum disease has proven to be one of the worst side effects of missing teeth and can be minimized with a bridge.

Missing teeth can cause speech disorders as they are used to make many of the sounds we use to speak clearly.

The attachment procedure usually takes several appointments to complete. At the first appointment your dentist will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by shaping a portion of the enamel and dentin.

Since the bridge must be fabricated very precisely to ensure correct bite and to match the opposing tooth, impressions of the teeth are taken and sent to a lab where the bridge will be constructed.

Fixed bridges are typically cemented to the natural teeth next to the space left by the missing tooth. A pontic (false tooth) replaces the lost tooth. Crowns, which are cemented onto the natural teeth, provide support for the bridge.

Bridges are constructed from  bonded ceramic material.

A strict regimen of brushing and flossing will keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean. This is of critical importance as the bridge relies on the neighboring teeth for support.

Crowns can be made of gold, Nickel – chromium, pure porcelain or a combination of the two. Crowns made of gold or stainless steel are the most durable and kindest to opposing tooth structure however they are the least aesthetic. A combination or porcelain fused to metal crown has the advantages of a hard core of gold alloy and is covered with a porcelain material to hide the metal. An all porcelain crown  have a strong core . Of all the options, all porcelain crowns look the most natural but can have limitations to them. When needing a crown it is best to discuss with your dentist which option is best for the tooth being crowned.

An abscess is a term used to describe a tooth that has been infected for a period of time and sometimes shows signs on the x-rays. For whatever the reason, decay or fractures close to or into the nerve, the nerve will start to die off. This process called necrosis is the process of the nerve of the tooth dying and the body’s reaction to this is the resultant infection. The process of the nerve dying off can be very painful due to the nerve being contained within the confines of the tooth. When something gets infected in swells and gets inflamed and inside a tooth that pressure has nowhere to go, resulting in a pain some view to be the worst pain one can experience. Once this occurs the only treatment option left is to remove the nerve. The most common and most advised way is by root canal therapy.

There are many options all of which center around being fixed or removable. Removable options include dentures and removable partial dentures It is almost always the best option if you can save a tooth to do it. It is almost always more time consuming and more costly to replace a tooth than it is to save it. Depending on the situation it is most favorable to save the tooth as the best option. A tooth can always be pulled (extracted) out, however if a replacement is not inserted in a timely matter then tooth movement, shifting, and bite changes can occur which are permanent alterations which can have harmful effects.

There are many options all of which center around being fixed or removable. Removable options include dentures and removable partial dentures Fixed options include implants or bridges (fixed partial dentures).

There are many options all of which center around being fixed or removable. Removable options include dentures and removable partial dentures A dental implant( to replace a single tooth) is designed to permanently replace missing teeth in a fixed non-removable fashion. A specially designed root formed titanium alloy “screw” is placed within the jawbone to act just like a natural tooth would. It can function and mimic a natural tooth to make a very pleasing smile and tooth replacement. An implant can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or can support bridges, partials and dentures. By supporting removable options they can make the fit and function multiple times better for chewing and biting efficiency. A denture is needed when you are missing all of your teeth. It is removable and is recommended not to sleep in them due to tissues needing rest from forces applied while chewing. The upper denture can stay in place quite well depending on the amount of bony ridge left over upon tooth extraction or removal. You see, our bone in our jaws has one purpose and that is to hold and support our teeth, once all the teeth are removed the bone starts to atrophy. This atrophy over time is why dentures need to be relined and adjusted on a regular basis. Lower dentures move around quite frequently due to the muscles of the tongue and cheek that have their attachments along where the borders of the dentures sit.

A denture depends on suction to hold it in and can be aided by attaching them to dental implants. By the addition of dental implants, dentures are now very predictable and there is no longer and reason why they should come out and be limited by certain foods. The higher the number of implants supporting a denture the more stable it can become.

There are many options all of which center around being fixed or removable. Removable options include dentures and removable partial dentures A dental implant( to replace a single tooth) is designed to permanently replace missing teeth in a fixed non-removable fashion. A specially designed root formed titanium alloy “screw” is placed within the jawbone to act just like a natural tooth would. It can function and mimic a natural tooth to make a very pleasing smile and tooth replacement. An implant can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or can support bridges, partials and dentures. By supporting removable options they can make the fit and function multiple times better for chewing and biting efficiency. A removable partial denture or RPD is an appliance that can be removed by the patient and is attached to the remaining teeth by way of attachments. These attachments are usually made of metal and hold on

Immediate Denture: An immediate denture is a denture that is manufactured and placed in your mouth the same day you have your teeth removed. A consultation is required a day or two prior to this procedure. At this consultation, your dental provider will determine whether you are a candidate for an immediate denture. Some patients will need to have some of their teeth removed early and have 6 - 8 weeks of healing time. Then they will come back and have the remainder of their teeth pulled and the denture inserted that same day.

A consultation appointment is required the day prior to having an immediate denture manufactured.

Healing time of 6 - 8 weeks allows for any swelling that may occur with your extractions to go down. Less swelling means that you will have a better fit on your dentures.

Extractions are not included in the prices quoted for dentures. A consultation with your dental provider will tell you if your extractions can be performed at our office.

Because a partial denture hooks to your natural teeth, a dental hygiene cleaning is required within 6 months of having the partial made. If it has been longer than 6 months since your last cleaning, you may schedule a cleaning with our Dental Hygienist the same day as your appointment.

That question can only be answered by your dental provider. Some extractions may be more difficult than others and may require a visit to an oral surgeon.