Category Archives: Dental Care

Dental Implants Vs Dentures – Which Is Right For You?

January 2, 2012

Many people think that the only solution to missing teeth is a full or partial set of dentures. And for a lot of people, this is a perfectly practical solution. but if you experience discomfort or a poor fit, or if you just want to explore other options, consider an alternative that’s gaining popularity in the dental community: dental implants.

Dentures

Dentures are a practical solution whether you’re missing a couple, or all, of your teeth. Newer technology means dentures are made of more comfortable materials, and are custom created to more accurately fit your mouth. Many people can wear dentures comfortably more many years without complaint.

One of the benefits of dentures is that they typically cost less than dental implants initially. however, it is important for people to remember that over the course of their lifetime they may have to have several sets of dentures made due to gum shrinkage and other changes in their mouth.

Another benefit of dentures is that the process is much faster. Once the teeth are removed and the gums healed, you are ready to wear your new dentures. Dental implants are a more invasive process that requires multiple appointments and certain health considerations.

One of the biggest complaints amongst denture wearers is discomfort, particularly for lower dentures. If the dentures don’t fit properly it can cause slippage and shifting that can create sores and pain. Depending on the type of denture you need, you may also have to use an adhesive to keep it in place. While adhesives have come a long way in recent years, some people find it bothersome to use.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. an implant can be used for one missing tooth, or you can have entire sets. Implants use anchors, or posts, inserted directly into the jawbone to permanently set the tooth in place.

The most distinct advantage of implants is that they feel and function exactly like a natural tooth. there is no slippage and you do not need to worry about changing your habits. Because an implant is surgically implanted into the jaw, the surrounding teeth and gums are not affected like they would be with a bridge or dentures.

One thing patients should consider is that in order to be successful, the post must properly fuse with the jawbone. Because of this, patients with low bone density or compromised immune systems may not be good candidates for implants.

Another consideration is that implants are a more invasive procedure than dentures or other cosmetic fixes. The procedure often takes multiple visits, and depending on your needs can be considerably more costly than dentures.

If you are missing teeth and are considering your options for cosmetic dentistry, you have more choices than ever. Your dentist can help you decide if dentures or dental implants are the right solution for you.

0 Comments

A Brief History of Orthodontics

November 16, 2011

If we were to live a day in a world where the science of orthodontics was never invented, we would undoubtedly be surprised by the amount of people with malocclusions (or improper bites) that we thought had naturally perfect teeth. The truth is that nearly four million people in the United States are wearing braces at any given time and 25% of them are adults. many of us have benefited from the skills of an orthodontist to help correct problems with our teeth.

Although people have been studying teeth and attempting to straighten teeth for thousands of years, orthodontics didn’t really exist as a science until the late 19th century. However, the foundation of this science began a few hundred years earlier with early versions of orthodontic devises. In 1728 a French dentist named Pierre Fauchard published a book called The Surgeon Dentist. In his book Fauchard devoted an entire chapter on ways to straighten crooked teeth.

He described a horseshoe shaped piece of metal that he used to expand the arch. later in 1757, another French dentist named Ettienne Bourdet, who was dentist to the King of France, wrote another book on dentistry called The Dentist’s Art. Like Fauchard, he also devoted a chapter in his book to tooth alignment and appliances used to assist in this process. he perfected Fauchard’s tooth straightening device and also discussed the removal of premolars as a way to alleviated tooth crowding in the mouth. these early French dentists were some of the fathers of orthodontics.

Despite these great works of early science, the real science of orthodontics didn’t develop until the 19th century. two men in the 19th century made a big impact on dentistry, Norman W. Kingsley and J. N. Farrar. Kingsley published both an article and a book that focused on orthodontics. Farrar wrote two books and was known for his designs of brace appliances that used gentle force to move teeth.

However, many consider the real Father of Orthodontics to be Edward H. Angle. a native of Pennsylvania, Angle became a doctor of medicine in 1897. he founded the first school of orthodontia, The Angle School of Orthodontia, at the beginning of the 20th century. By this time, he had established orthodontics as a specialty. Angle devised a simple classification system for malocclusions, which is still being used today. he also contributed to the design of early orthodontic appliances. he also wrote a widely used book called Malocclusion of the Teeth. thanks to pioneering men like Angle, millions of people benefit from the skills and knowledgeable orthodontists.

0 Comments

Dental Implants – Giving You Back Your Beautiful Smile

November 6, 2011

Minor accidents are very common, not only amongst children and teenagers, but amongst adults as well. certain accidents are such that they cause people to lose their teeth. Other times when adults for example may lose their teeth is due to decaying of the teeth, a certain form of gum disease or perhaps even a great deal of wear and tear. with missing teeth, people are prone to face embarrassment which can cause a lack of confidence and self esteem to develop which can further lead to emotional problems.

One answer to such a problem of missing teeth is that of dental implants. these days, dental implants are sought by those people who may be experiencing some form of dissatisfaction with the kind of teeth they have. A majority of the people who make use of such implants and opt for this service with their dentist are however those who are missing teeth, but recently with the popularity of this service, people with perfectly good teeth show up to get implants done. This is because they themselves are unhappy with their teeth and wish to have a better and more perfect set. it does not matter what kind of problem one is facing with their teeth, implants have proven to be a very good solution to all kinds of issues. whether one opts for mini implants or full implants, a person can get full restoration with the help of these dental implants.

Dental implants are basically artificial roots of teeth, which are made using material that is compatible with the gums. these implants are then implanted into the jawbone of the patient with the help of a simple and painless procedure. these implants cannot be found readily available as they are custom made to meet the requirements of each individual patient. these implants need to feel natural for the patient and since they are a replica of one’s teeth, they need to be according to the shape and structure of an individual patient’s mouth and jaw. Titanium implants are generally the most common types of implants that are used by dentists. This is because the material is durable and offers the kind of functionality that dental implants are supposed to.

Since dental implants are seen as the best solution to the problem of missing teeth, there are obviously some benefits that are associated with their use. for one, these implants are permanent so unlike removable dentures that can be quite embarrassing as they tend to slip; dental implants are stable and fixed solution. They are also very durable and comfortable and they also help in the protection of the other teeth that are healthy. Missing teeth should definitely be replaced as it is a way of maintaining oral hygiene. not only will getting dental implants remove the negative effects of having lost a tooth or more, it will provide you with the stability you need in your jaw. so if you feel you need to get dental implants, you should immediately contact your dentist.

0 Comments

Dental Treatment Procedures

September 18, 2011

There are many dental treatment procedures that can be performed in the dental office or in the office of a professional in the dental field. when your teeth go bad, it affects the way that you eat, drink, and your health. when you become sick you may feel that you just have a cold or a bug that you picked up at the office. you may not consider the fact that you may be feeling bad because your teeth are bad. Dental treatment procedures are common procedures that can be performed in the office and usually doesn’t require that you be put to sleep in order to perform them.

Tooth cleaning is a dental treatment procedure that a dentist can do in their office anytime during the day. when a dentist cleans your teeth, this dental treatment is usually covered by almost all dental insurance companies and is considered preventive care because when your teeth are cleaned, the dentist removes the harsh tarter and plaque that has formed on your teeth which can cause them to weaken over time and this can cause even more problems to your health.

Another procedure that can be performed in a dentist office is cavity fillings. Sometimes cavities and eat away at the enamel on a tooth and this can cause a hole to develop and grow bigger as time moves on. If left alone, this hole can grow to the nerve exposing it and making your tooth extra sensitive. Air, cold, or hot foods and drinks can cause excruciating pain to hit the tooth and immediately make it difficult to eat or drink and sometimes talk. when your teeth are to this point the dentist may have to do a root canal, a dental treatment procedure that deadens the nerve so you don’t feel the pain. If you can catch your tooth decay before it reaches the nerve, a simple feeling may be all you need. in order to perform this procedure the dentist will scrape out the debris in your tooth and then fill it up with a substance that will dry and allow you to chew your food and drink normally. Fillings will last for many years before they fall out or chip off.

Dental treatment procedures include these and other forms of preventive and maintenance care for the teeth to help them to stay healthy for many years to come. this allows you to eat better and feel better about yourself. over time, when teeth are not properly taken care of, they may be health issues that develop including issues that affect the heart. the main reason for not taking care of teeth varies but whenever it is possible you need to make sure that you take care of yours to avoid several trips to the dentist for repair and expensive dental treatment that can cost more money than a simple tooth cleaning done annually to prevent problems and complications.

If you don’t have dental insurance many dentist offices will work with you in paying for dental treatment if you ask about the programs first. you may need to fill out forms to apply and when you are approved you can receive certain dental treatment procedures performed in the dentist office during a regular scheduled visit.

0 Comments

Laser Teeth Whitening Over Other Dental Bleaching Treatments

September 17, 2011

Laser teeth whitening is actually power or light-accelerated bleaching, since it does not really use a laser, which has been outdated by other more effective technologies. The procedure uses the power of light, which can be halogen, LED or plasma arc. The light is needed to stimulate the bleaching level of your teeth. It has become a popular choice for people who have discolored teeth, because it is a procedure that’s quick, painless and effective.

This cosmetic dental solution starts with the application of a whitening gel that contains hydrogen peroxide. The laser or light source will then be directed towards your teeth to increase the penetration of the whitening gel into your teeth enamel. This enhances the effects of tooth bleaching – that is, taking away the yellow stains that may have been caused by nicotine, coffee, other teeth-staining food, or lack of dental hygiene.

Since the latest technological advances have enabled this type of dental procedure to perform effectively with minimal heat and UV emissions, the whole treatment can now be completed in a single visit to the dentist that would last only about an hour or less. Most patients do not require follow-up visits after the procedure. This is one reason why many people choose laser dental bleaching over teeth whitening strips or trays. The latter may be much cheaper, but it would require you to do the whitening routine for about twice a day for a week or so just to begin seeing major results.

Whitening solutions using laser or light-source equipment is beneficial to people who are busy or who simply prefer hassle-free treatments. after the procedure, you don’t need to put any other gel on your teeth. You do not have to perform other dental rituals every night, unlike when you’re using bleaching trays or other home dental whitening solutions.

However, compared to the prices of other types of dental bleaching treatments, laser teeth whitening cost is usually higher. many people believe, though, that the difference in costs isn’t too significant, since laser treatment doesn’t require you to buy any other gel or equipment to put on your teeth anymore after that single visit to your dentist.

The effect of this technologically advanced treatment is expected to last for a year or two. of course, you need to observe general care for your teeth. Among other things, you should brush regularly and avoid taking coffee, tea and other teeth-straining drinks and food. As long as you take proper maintenance of your teeth, you’ll be able to maximize the benefits of your laser teeth whitening treatment.

0 Comments

Tooth Whitening Kits at Home – Do They Really Work?

September 6, 2011

Are you self-conscious about your pearly whites because they are less than white? Are you constantly suppressing a big smile for fear of being embarrassed by your discolored teeth? If so, you are not alone as there are millions of people just like you and many of them have resorted to tooth whitening kits at home and have turned their lives around. believe me you too can have a lovely smile and feel much more confident of your dazzling white teeth and achieve this all at the comfort of your own home.

There are a great number of tooth whitening kits for use at home that are available today. They come in different forms such as strips, gels, and many of them come in packages or kits that contain several products that complement each other to effectively achieve results. But first you need to know why some people have less than white teeth while some have naturally white teeth. The main factors here are age and the lifestyle.

First off, aging is a natural process where all our body ages naturally. In the case of our teeth, the enamel wears down and becomes thinner making the dentin layer beneath it, which is a darker color, more transparent. Then there is our lifestyle. Smoking, eating color staining food and drinks, and poor dental hygiene all serve as factors to discolor teeth. People who smoke, those who frequently drink coffee, tea, and sodas, and those that frequently eat blueberries, beetroot,, and food products containing food coloring tend to have more stained teeth than those that don’t.. Of course, those that don’t and those that have a regular habit of cleaning their teeth will have a much brighter and whiter smile.

Tooth whitening kits used at home are products that are mostly peroxide based, or work by using this active ingredient to bleach the teeth. it is a common and safe ingredient highly recommended by dental professionals and developed by them as well. Basically, the whitening procedure entails the application of a bleaching agent on the surface of the tooth. this is achieved by either using a strip that adheres to the surface of the tooth or a tray where the teeth are immersed for a certain period of time. With these teeth lightening products, the active ingredients get into the micro crevices of the teeth, cleaning out and dissolving the causes of the discoloration.

Dental professionals recommend tooth whitening kits at home that use strips and trays because they act as barriers forcing the product to have more contact with the surface of the teeth. Depending on the product, these whitening procedures will last around half an hour each day and can show noticeable differences in as little as two weeks or a month. Compared with professional teeth whitening procedures, tooth whitening kits at home methods take a longer time to see whiter teeth as most dental whitening treatments show immediate results after only one session. In fact, using the latest whitening methods, you may need only one procedure to enjoy whiter and more confident smiles.

0 Comments

Describe the Dental Implant Treatment Process in Brief

September 4, 2011

Your dentist will evaluate your specific condition and come up with a treatment plant to suit your needs. For instance if you are an ideal candidate with excellent health, with no gum or tooth infections, have excellent height and depth of jawbone and no smoking or alcoholic habits then your implants healing process will be faster and you whole implant process will take the shortest time of 6 weeks.

However if you need bone grafts this process will be delayed. first, your donor graft will be harvested and placed on the jawbone and allowed to heal and integrate with your bone. next, after sufficient bone has grown your implant will be placed and allowed to heal. this may take from 6 weeks to 6 months. Once it is healed then replacement tooth will be placed after careful measurements and color matches are done.

If you need multiple implants than each implant may be placed giving sufficient time for the previous implant to heal and the time taken will increase considerably. do not rush through the healing process as this will determine the success of your implants.

Is age a limiting factor?

Almost anyone can get dental implants provided they are healthy enough to have oral surgery. Some patients with auto-immune disease conditions may not be suitable candidates for implants. Also, people with certain chronic diseases, heavy smokers, alcoholics are not suitable candidates for implants. Age is not a limiting factor. But the very young and still in the growing phase are not considered for implants.

Implants have a success rate of 93 percent. this is the average for the last 10 years. And every year more advanced techniques are being developed which is further improving the success rates.

Can failed implants be replaced?

This is a very valid doubt. It is highly unlikely that your implants will fail. But if they do and provided there is no major underlying reason for the implant to fail they can surely be replaced.

0 Comments

Dental Wax For Braces

September 4, 2011

Having braces can be excruciating and could result in a loss of appetite. However, for vanity’s sake, we try to bear the discomforts and twinges in hopes of getting a perfect set of pearly whites. well, you don’t really need to go through the throbbing sensations as there are now some dental products in the market that somehow help ease the pain. your survival kit should include dental wax for braces that significantly prevents chaffing when applied in between the wires.

The biting pressure and soreness are usually expected to last for three to five days every time you’ll have your braces installed or readjusted. Typically, dentists would recommend rinsing the mouth with some salt-water mouthwash regularly. However, your inner cheek and lips may suffer most of the brunt as they are mostly in contact with the wires. you can numb the pain by applying some special dental wax for braces on the surface of the brackets. The soothing mint flavor of the dental wax for braces lessens the discomforts and is generally cheap with an average cost of $ 1.75 for five strips. now that is certainly something you would want to take advantage of, right?

You can browse through a number of different flavored dental waxes for braces at the online shop, along with other dental products especially created for people with braces. Simple product like this can certainly contribute a lot in easing pain and helps you focus more on getting that perfect set of teeth rather than constantly complaining for the aches and twinges. this is particularly helpful for kids who still have little or no pain threshold and can greatly affect their appetite. Braces need not be overly painful as it once was, the dental wax for braces may just be the right fix you need.

Although we all know that wearing braces can simply be considered as a mere passage of youth, some adults are required to wear bracesas well. as it seems, it requires several months or even a couple of years to correct crooked permanent teeth. However, it should not be a traumatic experience for adults and youngsters alike, the dental wax for braces is certainly the best available product that you can use with unrivaled ease and convenience in the application. The small tube can be easily carried around your tote bag and can go unnoticed and applied in seconds to instantly ease abrasions caused by the contact of metal and skin.

0 Comments

Denture Cost – Here Is An Affordable Option For Buying Dentures

August 1, 2011

Is denture cost keeping you from getting the new teeth that you need? Unfortunately, many people in the United States are facing this problem, especially our seniors. however, there is an affordable solution now. The solution I’m referring to is called a dental discount plan. unlike dental insurance, where you would have to wait 12 months or longer to get any existing conditions taken care of, you can start using a discount plan within one to three days. also, denture cost isn’t as big of an obstacle for most people when they use a discount plan. Here’s an example.

The average cost of upper dentures nationwide is over $1200.00, however, you can save as much as sixty percent off of that denture cost by joining the discount plan first. Of course, this depends upon the area of the country in which you live and the particular plan that join.

The cost of joining one of these plans is normally under $100 for an individual and usually under $150 for a family. Once again, this depends upon the plan and the area that you live. You’ll not only save on your denture cost, but you’ll also receive substantial discounts on any other dental care that you need over the next year. these discounts range from 10-60% and are not only good on routine dental care, such as cleanings and fillings, but also on major dental, such as braces, bridge work and root canals. If you’re concerned about denture cost then you really should take a look at dental discount plans and get back to living your life.

0 Comments

Dental Crowns – When You Need Them

July 12, 2011

When you go to the dentist, it is usually not a pleasant experience for most people. It is usually a time that is associated with a lot of pain and it never seems like the dentist tells you any good news. There are so many different types of procedures that dentists undertake that it would be difficult for any patient to know exactly what every type of procedure entails and when it should be implemented.

One of these cases is dental crowns. many people who are told that they need crowns do not know what a crown is, what it is used for and why they need it. There is a specific dental purpose and certain cases for crowns. It is important to understand when you are a good candidate for crowns.

Some people do not understand why a certain case for the tooth requires a crown rather than a filling. One such instance is a cracked tooth. many people suffer from cracked teeth. Cracked teeth can be a very painful and unpleasant experience. There is no denying the sharp shooting pain associated with a cracked tooth. Dental crowns are the best way to remedy this situation.

A crown can also make the teeth more beautiful. Most people forget about the aspect of the dental crown. if your tooth is not completely filled out or has a deep cavity, it will not look very appealing. In this case, a dental crown can complete the look and give you a more beautiful smile.

Dental crowns can be placed on front teeth as well as back teeth and molars. some will be stronger than others. usually the ones used for cosmetic teeth can be colored to the same color as your tooth enamel. they serve more of a cosmetic purpose as they can be a bit weaker than a more functional dental crown.

It can preserve teeth that would otherwise need to be removed. since the crown is custom made by the dentists, it can perfectly fit over any tooth in your mouth. Teeth that have had a filling fall out are the perfect candidates for dental crowns. if these crowns did not exist, these particular teeth would probably be too weak to function. a dental crown will add new life to the teeth both in functional aspects such as eating as well as cosmetic purposes.

0 Comments
« Older posts