This may be your first visit to the dentist or just your first visit in a while.
Either way, you may not know what to expect and you may even be a little nervous.
So sit back, relax and let us explain to you what we’ll be doing during this visit.
The first thing we will check during the exam is your face and neck.
Checking visually we will look for any abnormalities such as lumps, bumps or swelling.
Checking inside your mouth is next on the agenda.
During this part of the check up we will be looking for any abnormalities in the soft tissue,
such as discolorations or ulcers on your lips, gums, tongue, palate, and cheeks.
We will also perform an oral cancer screening and will check your bite and your jaw joint for any problems.
Next we will check your gums and jaw bone, as they are the foundation for your teeth.
We will check them for any signs of gingivitis, gum disease, and bone disease.
Checking your teeth comes next.
We will be checking them for any cavities or other problems.
Finally, we’ll be sure to look specifically at any areas where you may have symptoms or concerns.
In most cases a clinical exam by itself is not sufficient to completely diagnose all potential problems with your mouth.
In fact the majority of problems with your teeth and the jaw bone are not visible to the naked eye.
That’s why x-rays play a key role in allowing a better,
and more accurate look at what is really going on inside your mouth and below your teeth and gums.
A good example of this would be the use of x-rays to better diagnose the destructive periodontal disease.
By using x-rays your dentist can check for any bone loss and determine the severity of the gum disease.
Based on the diagnosis from the x-ray,
your dentist can then determine the proper cleaning or treatment you may require.
In addition to revealing any problems that were not visible during the clinical exam
these initial x-rays will also provide your dentist with a benchmark
with which to compare against during your future visits.
If you have any additional questions please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
Welcome to your dentist.
If this is your first visit, you probably have a lot of questions.
You may even feel a little nervous.
But don’t worry your dentist will take good care of you and your teeth.
So sit back, relax and let us explain what we’ll be doing during this visit.
During the first part of your check up we will look at your face and neck.
Your dentist will check for anything that looks out of the ordinary like a bump or swelling.
Next we will check your bite, jaws, lips, cheeks, tongue, and gums.
We will also check to see if sealants will be helpful to you.
Sealants are protection for your teeth that we’ll talk more about later.
After checking your bite, your dentist will check inside your mouth.
We start by gently checking your teeth for cavities or other problems.
You’ve probably heard of x-ray vision.
Well, dental x-rays work kind of the same way.
X-rays are used by your dentist to see things inside your mouth that your eyes alone can’t.
Your dentist may use x-rays to view your baby and permanent teeth to watch their growth,
or to check for cavities that are harder to see.
Your dentist may also use x-rays to check your gums and jaw bone.
Not everyone needs x-rays, so your dentist will decide whether they are necessary and how many should be taken.
The “American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry” recommends a dental check up at least twice a year for most children,
so be sure to see your dentist regularly.
Your dentist will advise you how often you should return for a check-up.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
No treatment will be effective unless you follow it up with routine and proper home care.
This means you should brush and floss regularly after every meal and at a minimum twice a day.
The key is not only to do it regularly but also to do it right.
Here’s how.
To properly floss you should wind the floss around both of your index fingers
and push it between each of your teeth in your mouth.
Make sure to freely move the floss upwards, downwards and even sideways
to remove any food particles or plaque that may be lodged between your teeth or under the gums.
Many people these days use an electric toothbrush such as a Sonicare.
Whether you use an electric or still prefer a manual brush you should hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth.
Gently but thoroughly rotate the bristles across your teeth and under your gums with a backward and forward motion.
Be sure to also get the top surfaces of your teeth where you bite or chew on food.
Your tongue can also be cleaned with your toothbrush, which will help reduce bad breath.
Lastly, it is important to clean the inside surfaces of your teeth with the same rotating motion.
When brushing it’s also important to use toothpaste that contains fluoride.
Fluoride helps harden the outer layer of the tooth, called enamel,
which will prevent cavities and also reduce bacteria in the mouth.
It can also reverse the formation of smaller cavities.
Lastly, antibacterial rinses can also help reduce bacteria in the mouth.
Please check with your dentist or dental hygienist if you have any additional questions.
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[intro music]
Most people have heard of gingivitis, but you’ve probably never heard the word prophy.
So what is it?
Prophy is short for prophylactic teeth cleaning.
Most patients who require prophy are diagnosed by their dentist with an inflammation of their gums,
commonly known as gingivitis.
Simply put it starts with poor brushing.
The main cause of gingivitis is plaque and tartar build up.
First comes the plaque.
Plaque is the yellow film on your teeth caused by food and bacteria in your mouth.
Next comes the tartar.
When plaque build up mixes with the saliva in your mouth it hardens over time and turns into tartar.
Tartar, usually a result of poor brushing, ultimately leads to gingivitis.
It’s a vicious cycle.
Gingivitis can also be a warning sign for a more severe gum disease called periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease is when gingivitis is left untreated and can lead to bone loss or even tooth loss.
But don’t despair!
The good news is that gingivitis can be treated with prophy.
And with routine oral hygiene at home,
such as proper and regular brushing and flossing, you can prevent gingivitis from reoccurring.
So how exactly does prophy work?
Prophy is a multi-step process that is normally done in one office visit:
Step one.
First a general cleaning is performed.
This is either done manually or with an ultra-sonic instrument called a cavitron, or sometimes a combination of the two.
Both techniques loosen and remove plaque and tartar build up.
Step two.
Following the initial cleaning, a rotary machine that looks much like a toothbrush with toothpaste on it is used.
This removes any remaining plaque around or under the gums.
It also helps to polish the outer surface of your teeth which helps reduce future plaque build up.
The final step is to floss and remove any and all remaining plaque between the teeth.
The risks associated with prophy are fairly minor.
In some instances during the procedure, a filling or crown may become loose.
Though keep in mind that any filling or crown that would become loose is most likely already defective.
Any sound filling or crown would safely withstand the prophy procedure.
Lastly, antibacterial rinses can also help reduce bacteria in the mouth.
Please check with your dentist or dental hygienist if you have any additional questions.
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[intro music]
Scaling and root planning is frequently referred to as ‘deep cleaning’.
Deep cleaning is the treatment of choice for an infectious disease called periodontal disease.
So what is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease mainly starts with the formation of plaque around the teeth.
Plaque is the yellow film on your teeth caused by food and bacteria in your mouth.
When plaque build up mixes with the saliva it hardens over time and turns into tartar.
Tartar containing bacteria will irritate the gums around the teeth
by attaching to the outer surface of the teeth and roots and releases poisonous toxins.
These toxins cause an infection and an inflammation of the gums.
Worse, if left untreated they can ultimately cause bone loss and eventually tooth loss.
Keep in mind the lost bone will never grow back.
Fortunately deep cleaning can help.
Deep cleaning is a procedure that treats the infected area
by meticulously cleaning the tartar and bacteria from the teeth and their roots.
Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planning
is normally performed by your dentist or dental hygienist in a couple of visits.
The exact number of visits however depends on your dentist and the amount of tartar build up.
Often your dentist will choose to administer local anesthetic to make the procedure virtually painless.
The deep cleaning is either done manually
or with an ultra-sonic instrument called a cavitron, or sometimes a combination of the two.
Both techniques loosen and remove plaque and tartar build up.
In addition, antibacterial irrigants or local antibiotics such as Arestin
may be used in conjunction with the cleaning procedure to further reduce the number of bacteria around the gums.
Also keep in mind, although rare, one or more of the following symptoms can occur after treatment:
Bleeding of the gum
Inadvertent removal or irritation of the gum
Teeth discomfort such as sensitivity to hot and cold or sweets
Swelling & inflammation of the gum
And finally, allergies to some of the materials used during the procedure.
You may ask yourself, “Can I get a regular cleaning instead?”
The answer is no.
As the name deep cleaning implies,
the main difference is that deep cleaning goes below the gum
to remove plaque or tartar build up from the tooth’s root where the bone is affected by the infection,
whereas regular cleaning only removes the plaque or tartar above the gum.
Periodontal disease cannot currently be cured, it can only be controlled,
so it is important to follow your dentist’s recommendations for follow-up maintenance and treatment.
In addition to routine check ups,
performing proper dental hygiene at home is of course also important
to help prevent the recurrence of this destructive disease.
Please check with your dentist or dental hygienist if you have any additional questions.
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[intro music]
Have you lost your teeth due to: severe tooth decay, gum disease, trauma, or even failed root canal?
If so, you may qualify for implant treatment.
Dental implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth in your mouth.
Implants are made of titanium or similar materials that are well suited to the human body.
They are artificial replacements for teeth roots that support a restoration or a dental appliance.
Besides its cosmetic advantage, replacing the missing teeth will restore your ability to properly chew and speak.
In addition, the space caused by the missing teeth may allow the surrounding teeth to shift into that space.
This shifting could cause a misalignment in your bite that can result in problems with your jaw joint.
These shifted teeth are harder to clean, making them more susceptible to gum disease, decay, or even additional tooth loss.
Before we start, it’s important that you notify your dentist of your medical condition,
such as whether you have any artificial joints, diabetes, or a history of heart and valve conditions.
You should also inform your dentist of any medications you are currently or have previously taken,
such as Redux or Fen-Phen, blood thinners or importantly, medications that contain bisphosphonates like Fosamax.
It normally takes a few phases and several months for your dentist to complete the treatment.
In the first phase, your dentist will place the implants in your jaw bone.
It requires three to 6 months for the bone to fuse to the implants.
In the second phase, your dentist will place an extension or a post to extend the implants above the gum line.
This process can also be performed during the first phase, depending on the technique chosen by your dentist.
After your gums are healed, it is time for an impression to be made
and a final restoration or appliance to be fabricated by the dental laboratory.
In most cases, on your final visit,
the restoration or the dental appliance is placed and adjusted to ensure proper fit and function.
While every effort is made to place a successful and functioning implant, it sometimes fails.
This is mainly due to lack of proper attachment between the implant and the jaw bone during the bone-fusing phase.
Other problems, such as breakage of the implants, breakage or loosening of its restoration or dental appliance
and infection of the surrounding gums are also rare possibilities.
Finally, due to differences in the shapes of the jaws
and the bone density, the back area of upper jaw may require an additional procedure,
such as a sinus lifting, to increase the predictability and long-term success.
Please keep in mind that the longevity of your implant and its restoration depends in large part on your oral hygiene,
diet, and the health of the supporting bones and gums.
Please ask your dentist for proper brushing and flossing techniques.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
Have you lost your teeth due to: severe tooth decay, gum disease, trauma, or even failed root canal?
If so, you may qualify for implant treatment.
Dental implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth in your mouth.
Implants are made of titanium or similar materials that are well suited to the human body.
They are artificial replacements for teeth roots that support a restoration or a dental appliance.
Besides its cosmetic advantage, replacing the missing teeth will restore your ability to properly chew and speak.
In addition, the space caused by the missing teeth may allow the surrounding teeth to shift into that space.
This shifting could cause a misalignment in your bite that can result in problems with your jaw joint.
These shifted teeth are harder to clean, making them more susceptible to gum disease, decay, or even additional tooth loss.
Before we start, it’s important that you notify your dentist of your medical condition,
such as whether you have any artificial joints, diabetes, or a history of heart and valve conditions.
You should also inform your dentist of any medications you are currently or have previously taken,
such as Redux or Fen-Phen, blood thinners or importantly, medications that contain bisphosphonates like Fosamax.
It normally takes a few phases and several months for your dentist to complete the treatment.
In the first phase, your dentist will place the implants in your jaw bone.
It requires three to 6 months for the bone to fuse to the implants.
In the second phase, your dentist will place an extension or a post to extend the implants above the gum line.
This process can also be performed during the first phase, depending on the technique chosen by your dentist.
After your gums are healed, it is time for an impression to be made
and a final restoration or appliance to be fabricated by the dental laboratory.
In most cases, on your final visit,
the restoration or the dental appliance is placed and adjusted to ensure proper fit and function.
While every effort is made to place a successful and functioning implant, it sometimes fails.
This is mainly due to lack of proper attachment between the implant and the jaw bone during the bone-fusing phase.
Other problems, such as breakage of the implants, breakage or loosening of its restoration or dental appliance
and infection of the surrounding gums are also rare possibilities.
Finally, due to differences in the shapes of the jaws
and the bone density, the back area of upper jaw may require an additional procedure,
such as a sinus lifting, to increase the predictability and long-term success.
Please keep in mind that the longevity of your implant and its restoration depends in large part on your oral hygiene,
diet, and the health of the supporting bones and gums.
Please ask your dentist for proper brushing and flossing techniques.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
While every effort is made to make a good and functional denture,
it is sometimes hard to achieve a stable and retentive denture.
This is mainly due to the jaw bone constantly shrinking with age, smoking,
or some systemic diseases, such as diabetes or even chewing pressure on the existing denture.
However, there are new advances in making dentures.
One such advance as an implant supported denture that increases the stability of the denture.
This kind of dental appliance requires the placement of implants in your mouth before making the denture.
Dental implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth in your mouth.
Implants are made of titanium or similar materials that are well suited to the human body.
They are artificial replacements for teeth roots that support a restoration or a dental appliance.
Before we start, it’s important that you notify your dentist of your medical condition,
such as whether you have any artificial joints, diabetes, or a history of heart and valve conditions.
You should also inform your dentist of any medications you are currently or have previously taken,
such as Redux or Fen-Phen, blood thinners or importantly, medications that contain bisphosphonates like Fosamax.
It normally takes a few phases and several months for your dentist to complete the treatment.
In the first phase, your dentist will place the implants in your jaw bone.
It requires three to 6 months for the bone to fuse to the implants.
In the second phase, your dentist will place an extension or a post to extend the implants above the gum line.
This process can also be performed during the first phase, depending on the technique chosen by your dentist.
After your gums are healed, it is time for an impression to be made
and a final restoration or appliance to be fabricated by the dental laboratory.
In most cases, on your final visit,
the restoration or the dental appliance is placed and adjusted to ensure proper fit and function.
While every effort is made to place a successful and functioning implant, it sometimes fails.
This is mainly due to lack of proper attachment between the implant and the jaw bone during the bone-fusing phase.
Other problems, such as breakage of the implants, breakage or loosening of its restoration or dental appliance
and infection of the surrounding gums are also rare possibilities.
Finally, due to differences in the shapes of the jaws and the bone density,
the back area of upper jaw may require an additional procedure,
such as a sinus lifting, to increase the predictability and long-term success.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
Root canal therapy refers to a treatment
in which your dentist removes the bacteria infection that has entered your tooth’s pulp or nerve chamber.
Why would you need a root canal?
There are several reasons why your tooth may become irritated and inflamed,
such as: deep decay, big fillings, trauma to the tooth, a chipped tooth or even repeated dental work.
So here’s how it works:
Root canal treatment is routinely performed in one or more visits.
First a local anesthetic is administered to numb the tooth so that the procedure is more comfortable.
Next, your dentist will place a protective shield or a rubber dam to keep the tooth clean and saliva free.
Once numbness sets in, an opening is made through the top part of the tooth.
Root canal files are used to clean and shape the inside of the canals and prepare the root canal for a final filling material.
During the process a cleansing solution is used to help clean out any remaining bacteria or tooth debris.
X-rays may also be taken periodically during the procedure to inform your dentist of the ongoing process.
Once the bacteria is successfully removed your dentist will make the decision
whether to continue with the root canal filling procedure or to postpone it for the next visit.
This decision depends on the degree of your infection and the professional judgment of your dentist.
When the root canal filling is performed,
it is generally done by placing a rubber-like material with a sealer that fills the entire length of the root canal.
A temporary filling is then placed on the tooth.
Please keep in mind that root canal therapy treats the diseased pulp of the tooth,
but the treatment is not complete until the tooth is restored to a functional stage.
This means a crown, or a similar type of dental work is necessary to make the tooth operational again.
After completion of root canal therapy you might feel some discomfort for few days following the treatment.
To alleviate the discomfort
you can follow your dentist’s recommendation on taking an over the counter pain medication.
In more extreme cases your dentist may prescribe an antibiotic
and prescription-strength pain reliever to help reduce any remaining infection.
Following root canal therapy you should never chew directly on the repaired tooth
until its final restoration has occurred or your tooth may crack.
Also, keep in mind that the longer you wait to complete the final restoration
the more likely bacteria will reinfect the treated canal requiring the therapy to be performed all over again.
Root canal therapy, like every other treatment, is not free of unknowns and complications.
There is a possibility that during the procedure a shaping file could break and get stuck in the root canal
or that the root of the tooth fractures.
In other cases it’s possible to miss a hidden root or an extra canal that is in need of treatment.
Lastly, a good seal may not be achieved due to the shape of the root.
Of course these complications are the exceptions not the norm.
In the event that root canal therapy is unsuccessful,
your dentist can discuss alternative options including repeating the treatment or extracting the infected tooth.
Please keep in mind that the longevity of your tooth
and its root canal depends in large part on your oral hygiene and diet.
So be sure to maintain your teeth with proper brushing and flossing.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
Once your dentist has identified the infection inside your tooth
you may be wondering what other options you have besides getting a root canal.
The first is to do nothing.
However, if the bacteria is not removed it will work its way to the tip of the root and eventually into your bone.
Once it does, it will cause an abscess and infection.
Obviously this course of action, or inaction, is not recommended.
Your second choice is to extract or remove the tooth.
Be aware if you simply extract the tooth,
the space caused by the missing tooth will cause the surrounding teeth to shift into that space.
This shift could cause a miss alignment in your mouth that can result in problems with your jaw.
In addition, these shifted teeth are harder to clean,
making them more susceptible to gum disease, decay or even additional tooth loss.
If you do elect to pull the tooth
your best plan would be to replace it with a dental appliance such as an implant or a bridge.
This of course would add more expense to the treatment in addition to the loss of your tooth.
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[intro music]
A tooth extraction refers to the procedure of removing a tooth from its socket.
Before we start, it’s important that you notify your dentist of your medical condition,
such as whether you have diabetes, any artificial joints or a history of heart and valve conditions.
You should also inform your dentist of any medications you are currently or have previously taken,
such as Redux, Fen-Phen, blood thinners or importantly, medications that contain bisphosphonates like Fosamax.
So here’s how an extraction is done.
First, a local anesthetic is applied to make the procedure more comfortable.
In some cases your dentist will elect to use nitrous oxide gas in addition to the anesthetic.
Once the area is numb, the extraction begins.
A dental instrument called an elevator is used to wiggle the tooth in its socket.
After the tooth is loosened it is removed using forceps
or in some more complicated cases a surgical hand piece is also used to assist with the removal of the tooth.
Like most other procedures, tooth extraction is not free of possible complications.
You should be aware that there is a slight chance of infection, tenderness, prolonged bleeding, dry socket
and loosening of neighboring teeth or their fillings or crowns.
Another rare possibility is a tooth being displaced into the sinus during an extraction of an upper tooth.
Lastly, jaw fracture is also a very rare possibility.
You need to be aware of the importance of replacing this missing tooth.
Why?
Once a tooth is removed, the space created by the missing tooth will allow the surrounding teeth to shift into that space.
This shift could cause a misalignment in your mouth that can result in chewing or jaw-joint problems.
These shifted teeth are harder to clean,
making them more susceptible to gum disease, decay or even additional tooth loss.
For these reasons, it’s important to replace the tooth with a dental appliance
such as a bridge, a removable partial denture or an implant.
In some instances you may be considering the option of pulling a tooth rather than simply repairing it.
While it may be less expensive in the short run, in the long run it may cost you more.
As you just heard, once a tooth is pulled
you still need to fill the space with a dental appliance to avoid future complications.
If you add the cost of extraction plus the replacement of the tooth, you may simply be better off repairing it.
Please be sure to ask your dentist for proper home care and post-operative instruction care.
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[intro music]
Your third molars, commonly known as your wisdom teeth, are typically the last teeth to erupt in your mouth.
If healthy and functional your wisdom teeth can be useful.
However, there are also reasons behind why you may need to consider removing your wisdom teeth.
In some cases your wisdom teeth are in fact healthy,
but because of orthodontic treatment they need to be removed anyway.
In other cases, your wisdom teeth can become impacted or only partially erupt through the gum in a misalignment.
When impacted or partially impacted,
your wisdom teeth can cause swelling, pain and even infection of the surrounding gum.
They can also put pressure on the adjacent teeth,
which can result in permanent damage to these otherwise healthy teeth and their surrounding bone.
Sometimes, impacted or partially impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to the formation of cysts,
and in worse case scenarios even tumors, which could potentially destroy an entire section of your jaw.
Lastly a fully erupted wisdom tooth needs to be removed
because they are very hard to clean and can cause sever tooth decay.
So for these reasons sometimes the smart move is to have your wisdom teeth removed.
Before we start, it’s important that you notify your dentist of your medical condition,
such as whether you have any artificial joints, diabetes or a history of heart and valve conditions.
You should also inform your dentist of any medications you are currently or have previously taken,
such as Redux, Fen-Phen, blood thinners or importantly, medications that contain bisphosphonates like Fosamax.
Whether your dentist or a specialist is performing the extraction the procedure is the same.
First, a local anesthetic is given to make the procedure more comfortable.
In some cases your doctor may elect to administer nitrous oxide gas in addition to the anesthetic
or use a general anesthetic to put you under entirely.
Once the area is numb, the extraction begins.
A dental instrument called an elevator is used to wiggle the tooth in its socket.
After the tooth is loosened it is removed using forceps
or in some more complicated cases a surgical hand piece is also used to assist with the removal of the tooth.
Like most other procedures, tooth extraction is not free of possible complications.
You should be aware that there is a slight chance of infection, tenderness, prolonged bleeding, dry socket
and loosening of neighboring teeth or their fillings or crowns.
Another rare possibility is a tooth being displaced into the sinus during an extraction of an upper tooth.
Lastly, jaw fracture is also a very rare possibility.
When should you have your wisdom teeth removed?
There is no single right answer for everyone;
however, if your dentist has advised you that your wisdom teeth look potentially problematic
it’s generally best to remove them sooner-rather than later.
This advice is based on the fact that the younger you are, the faster you heal.
The likeliness of lingering numbness, jaw fracture or other complications also increases with age.
Lastly, the longer you leave a troublesome wisdom tooth in your mouth,
the longer it has to cause further problems in the future.
So, listen to your dentist and don’t delay the removing of your wisdom teeth when advised.
Please be sure to ask your dentist for proper home care and post-operative instruction care.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
Now that the extraction is completed, here are some advices to help you with the healing process.
Do: Put pressure on the wound.
First to control any bleeding, put constant pressure on the wound by biting on the gauze.
Also, change the gauze every few minutes for about a couple of hours.
A cold compress or ice packs can also help this process.
Do: Stay on a soft diet.
For the first few days after the extraction, you should stay on a soft diet.
This decreases the chances that you will disturb the site of the surgery.
After a few days it is generally okay to resume your normal diet.
Do: Take the pain medicine.
Following the extraction, It is very common to experience some discomfort
normally at the site of the anesthetic or the extraction site itself.
To alleviate the discomfort,
you should follow your dentist recommendation on taking an over-the-counter pain medication.
When necessary your dentist may decide to prescribe a stronger pain medicine to manage higher levels of pain.
Do not disturb the site of the extraction.
Make sure that you do not disturb the extraction site.
This means don’t chew, rinse or brush directly on the site for at least 24 to 48 hours.
Do not spit or suck through a straw.
This is important because using a straw often causes suction that can remove the blood clot.
Loss of the blood clot causes bleeding or a painful condition called dry socket.
Do not smoke.
It is important that you do not smoke for at least 24 hours following the extraction,
as smoking promotes the likelihood of bleeding and further delays the healing.
Smoking may also cause the dry socket.
Sometimes you may experience discomfort when opening your mouth.
This is due to muscle spasm or trismus, which usually heals on its own in a few days.
A little bleeding, swelling, and discomfort is normal after a tooth extraction.
However, if you have any unusual bleeding beyond four to 6 hours post operation,
it is important that you contact your dentist immediately
or seek assistance at your local emergency room If you’re unable to reach your dentist.
If everything seems normal, you can start to rinse with warm saltwater 24 hours post operation
and be sure to keep the area as clean as possible.
Visit your dentist for a checkup in one week after the surgery
so your dentist can remove any suture
and examine the wound to make sure it is healing properly.
Unless you have complications in which you need to visit your dentist sooner.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
Have you lost your teeth due to: severe tooth decay, gum disease, trauma, or even failed root canal?
If so, you may qualify for implant treatment.
Dental implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth in your mouth.
Implants are made of titanium or similar materials that are well suited to the human body.
They are artificial replacements for teeth roots that support a restoration or a dental appliance.
Besides its cosmetic advantage, replacing the missing teeth will restore your ability to properly chew and speak.
In addition, the space caused by the missing teeth may allow the surrounding teeth to shift into that space.
This shifting could cause a misalignment in your bite that can result in problems with your jaw joint.
These shifted teeth are harder to clean, making them more susceptible to gum disease, decay, or even additional tooth loss.
Before we start, it’s important that you notify your dentist of your medical condition,
such as whether you have any artificial joints, diabetes, or a history of heart and valve conditions.
You should also inform your dentist of any medications you are currently or have previously taken,
such as Redux or Fen-Phen, blood thinners or importantly, medications that contain bisphosphonates like Fosamax.
It normally takes a few phases and several months for your dentist to complete the treatment.
In the first phase, your dentist will place the implants in your jaw bone.
It requires three to 6 months for the bone to fuse to the implants.
In the second phase, your dentist will place an extension or a post to extend the implants above the gum line.
This process can also be performed during the first phase, depending on the technique chosen by your dentist.
After your gums are healed, it is time for an impression to be made
and a final restoration or appliance to be fabricated by the dental laboratory.
In most cases, on your final visit,
the restoration or the dental appliance is placed and adjusted to ensure proper fit and function.
While every effort is made to place a successful and functioning implant, it sometimes fails.
This is mainly due to lack of proper attachment between the implant and the jaw bone during the bone-fusing phase.
Other problems, such as breakage of the implants, breakage or loosening of its restoration or dental appliance
and infection of the surrounding gums are also rare possibilities.
Finally, due to differences in the shapes of the jaws
and the bone density, the back area of upper jaw may require an additional procedure,
such as a sinus lifting, to increase the predictability and long-term success.
Please keep in mind that the longevity of your implant and its restoration depends in large part on your oral hygiene,
diet, and the health of the supporting bones and gums.
Please ask your dentist for proper brushing and flossing techniques.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
As you age, your teeth age too.
Decay, fillings, trauma or even just normal chewing habits can make your teeth break down over time.
A dental crown or a cap is a cover that is placed over a tooth
to protect a weakened tooth from further fracturing or deteriorating.
A crown could also be used to replace a discolored or badly shaped tooth
or protect a tooth that has had a root canal.
Lastly, a new crown is necessary to simply replace an old worn down or defective crown.
It normally takes two visits for your dentist to complete your crown.
On your first visit a local anesthetic is administered to make the procedure more comfortable.
During this visit your dentist will use a dental hand piece to shape
and prepare the tooth so the crown can properly fit over it.
In some instances the tooth may need an additional procedure to replace areas of decay
or old fillings to better support the crown.
Next, an impression of the tooth is taken and a temporary crown is inserted to protect the prepared tooth.
This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory where a custom-fit permanent crown is made.
In some cases, on your second visit the permanent crown is placed and, if necessary, adjusted to create a proper fit.
If the fit, shape and color of the crown are satisfactory
your dentist will proceed with permanently cementing it into place.
Keep in mind in some instances the crown received back from the laboratory may not fit as expected.
In these cases your dentist may have to take a second impression
or re-adjust the tooth in order to fabricate a crown that fits just right.
After the successful completion of the crown
it is not uncommon to feel some discomfort, mild pain when you chew,
or sensitivity to temperature changes for a few days.
As advised by your dentist, you can take over-the-counter pain medicine to alleviate the discomfort.
If these symptoms persist more than a few days visit your dentist.
Finally, if your newly cemented crown feels too tall or your bite doesn’t feel right,
you should contact your dentist for further adjustment of the crown.
You may ask yourself, “Can’t I just get a filling instead?”
The answer is usually NO.
When a tooth requires a crown
it has already been weakened to the point that it may not be strong enough to support a filling.
Using an unsupported filling instead of a crown often causes the tooth to fracture beyond the point of repair.
Please keep in mind that the longevity of your crown depends in large part on the materials in the crown,
as well as your oral hygiene, diet and the health of the supporting tooth and gums.
It is important to maintain all of your teeth with proper brushing and flossing.
If you have any additional questions please consult your dentist.
[concluding music]

[intro music]
As you age, your teeth age too.
Decay, fillings, trauma or even just normal chewing habits can make your teeth break down over time.
A dental crown or a cap is a cover that is placed over a tooth
to protect a weakened tooth from further fracturing or deteriorating.
A crown could also be used to replace a discolored or badly shaped tooth or protect a tooth that has had a root canal.
Lastly, a new crown is necessary to simply replace an old worn down or defective crown.
It normally takes two visits for your dentist to complete your crown.
On your first visit a local anesthetic is administered to make the procedure more comfortable.
During this visit your dentist will use a dental hand piece to shape
and prepare the tooth so the crown can properly fit over it.
In some instances the tooth may need an additional procedure
to replace areas of decay or old fillings to better support the crown.
Next, an impression of the tooth is taken and a temporary crown is inserted to protect the prepared tooth.
This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory where a custom-fit permanent crown is made.
In some cases, on your second visit the permanent crown is placed and, if necessary, adjusted to create a proper fit.
If the fit, shape and color of the crown are satisfactory your dentist will proceed with permanently cementing it into place.
Keep in mind in some instances the crown received back from the laboratory may not fit as expected.
In these cases your dentist may have to take a second impression or re-adjust the tooth
in order to fabricate a crown that fits just right.
After the successful completion of the crown
it is not uncommon to feel some discomfort,
mild pain when you chew, or sensitivity to temperature changes for a few days.
As advised by your dentist, you can take over-the-counter pain medicine to alleviate the discomfort.
If these symptoms persist more than a few days visit your dentist.
Finally, if your newly cemented crown feels too tall or your bite doesn’t feel right,
you should contact your dentist for further adjustment of the crown.
You may ask yourself, “Can’t I just get a filling instead?”
The answer is usually NO!
When a tooth requires a crown,
it has already been weakened to the point that it may not be strong enough to support a filling.
Using an unsupported filling instead of a crown often causes the tooth to fracture beyond the point of repair.
Please keep in mind that the longevity and durability of your crown
is directly related to your oral hygiene and the materials selected to make the crown.
All-porcelain crowns are generally considered the most aesthetic choice
since they closely resemble the color and appearance of your teeth.
Porcelain continues to improve and in fact there are newly developed porcelain materials,
such as zirconium and empress 2 that can better withstand the forces of chewing.
Porcelain crowns can give you the Hollywood smile that you are looking for.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
[concluding music]

[intro music]
As you age, your teeth age too.
Decay, fillings, trauma or even just normal chewing habits can make your teeth break down over time.
A dental crown or a cap is a cover that is placed over a tooth
to protect a weakened tooth from further fracturing or deteriorating.
A crown could also be used to replace a discolored or badly shaped tooth
or protect a tooth that has had a root canal.
Lastly, a new crown is necessary to simply replace an old worn down or defective crown.
It normally takes two visits for your dentist to complete your crown.
On your first visit a local anesthetic is administered to make the procedure more comfortable.
During this visit your dentist will use a dental hand piece to shape
and prepare the tooth so the crown can properly fit over it.
In some instances the tooth may need an additional procedure to replace areas of decay
or old fillings to better support the crown.
Next, an impression of the tooth is taken and a temporary crown is inserted to protect the prepared tooth.
This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory where a custom-fit permanent crown is made.
In some cases, on your second visit the permanent crown is placed and, if necessary, adjusted to create a proper fit.
If the fit, shape and color of the crown are satisfactory
your dentist will proceed with permanently cementing it into place.
Keep in mind in some instances the crown received back from the laboratory may not fit as expected.
In these cases your dentist may need to take a second impression
or re-adjust the tooth in order to fabricate a crown that fits just right.
After the successful completion of the crown
it is not uncommon to feel some discomfort, mild pain when you chew,
or sensitivity to temperature changes for a few days.
As advised by your dentist, you can take over-the-counter pain medicine to alleviate the discomfort.
If these symptoms persist more than a few days visit your dentist.
Finally, if your newly cemented crown feels too tall or your bite doesn’t feel right,
you should contact your dentist for further adjustment of the crown.
You may ask yourself, “Can’t I just get a filling instead?”
The answer is usually NO.
When a tooth requires a crown
it has already been weakened to the point that it may not be strong enough to support a filling.
Using an unsupported filling instead of a crown often causes the tooth to fracture beyond the point of repair.
Please keep in mind that the longevity and durability of your crown is directly related to your oral hygiene
and materials selected to make the crown.
As a rule, the more precious metal or gold content in the metal
the better the fit and better for the health of gums around the crown.
Keep in mind fit is an important factor in sealing out the bacteria that tries to get between the crown and the tooth,
possibly causing decay and premature failure of the crown.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
[concluding music]

[intro music]
As you age, your teeth age too.
Decay, fillings, trauma or even just normal chewing habits can make your teeth break down over time.
A dental crown or a cap is a cover that is placed over a tooth
to protect a weakened tooth from further fracturing or deteriorating.
A crown could also be used to replace a discolored or badly shaped tooth
or protect a tooth that has had a root canal.
Lastly, a new crown is necessary to simply replace an old worn down or defective crown.
It normally takes two visits for your dentist to complete your crown.
On your first visit a local anesthetic is administered to make the procedure more comfortable.
During this visit your dentist will use a dental hand piece to shape
and prepare the tooth so the crown can properly fit over it.
In some instances the tooth may need an additional procedure to replace areas of decay
or old fillings to better support the crown.
Next, an impression of the tooth is taken and a temporary crown is inserted to protect the prepared tooth.
This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory where a custom-fit permanent crown is made.
In some cases, on your second visit the permanent crown is placed and, if necessary, adjusted to create a proper fit.
If the fit, shape and color of the crown are satisfactory
your dentist will proceed with permanently cementing it into place.
Keep in mind in some instances the crown received back from the laboratory may not fit as expected.
In these cases your dentist may need to take a second impression
or re-adjust the tooth in order to fabricate a crown that fits just right.
After the successful completion of the crown
it is not uncommon to feel some discomfort, mild pain when you chew,
or sensitivity to temperature changes for a few days.
As advised by your dentist, you can take over-the-counter pain medicine to alleviate the discomfort.
If these symptoms persist more than a few days visit your dentist.
Finally, if your newly cemented crown feels too tall or your bite doesn’t feel right,
you should contact your dentist for further adjustment of the crown.
You may ask yourself, “Can’t I just get a filling instead?”
The answer is usually NO.
When a tooth requires a crown
it has already been weakened to the point that it may not be strong enough to support a filling.
Using an unsupported filling instead of a crown often causes the tooth to fracture beyond the point of repair.
Please keep in mind that the longevity and durability of your crown is directly related to your oral hygiene
and materials selected to make the crown.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns have a porcelain exterior with a metal framework supporting it underneath.
The porcelain gives you the desired aesthetic
and the metal framework provides better structural support making the porcelain much stronger.
This type of porcelain-metal hybrid crown can be used to replace missing teeth in any area of the mouth, front or back.
As a rule, the more precious metal or gold content in the metal the better the fit
and better for the health of gums around the crown.
An example of this great type of crown would be the Captek crown
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
[concluding music]

[intro music]
The longevity and durability of your crown is directly related to the materials selected to make the crown.
So let’s take a look at different options.
Metal Crowns
These types of crowns are rarely used but as a rule;
the more precious metal or gold content in the metal the better the fit
and better for the health of gums around the crown.
Keep in mind fit is an important factor in sealing out the bacteria that tries to get between the crown and the tooth,
possibly causing decay and premature failure of the crown.
Porcelain Crowns
All-porcelain crowns are generally considered the most aesthetic choice
since they closely resemble the color and appearance of your teeth.
Porcelain continues to improve and in fact there are newly developed porcelain materials,
such as zirconium and empress 2 that can better withstand the forces of chewing.
Porcelain crowns can give you the Hollywood smile that you are looking for.
Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns
The third kind of crown has a porcelain exterior with a metal framework supporting it underneath.
The porcelain gives you the desired aesthetic
and the metal framework provides better structural support making the porcelain much stronger.
This type of porcelain-metal hybrid crown can be used to replace missing teeth in any area of the mouth, front or back.
Again, as a rule, the more precious metal or gold content in the metal the better the fit
and better for the health of gums around the crown.
An example of this great type of crown would be the Captek crown that has porcelain fused to 24 caret gold.
Your dentist will recommend the crown type that will be best for you both in terms of quality and aesthetics.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
[concluding music]

[intro music]
A bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth in your mouth.
Bridges are fixed, in that they are cemented on the supporting teeth,
or in some cases fixed on an implant that has been placed next to the missing teeth.
Replacing the missing teeth will restore your ability to properly chew and speak besides its cosmetic advantages;
in addition the space caused by the missing teeth may allow the surrounding teeth to shift into that space.
This shifting could cause a miss alignment in your bite that can result in problems with your jaw joint.
These shifted teeth are harder to clean,
making them more susceptible to gum disease, decay or even additional tooth loss.
It normally takes two or more visits for your dentist to complete the bridge.
On your first visit a local anesthetic is administered to make the procedure more comfortable.
During this visit the supporting teeth, which are typically the ones on either side of the missing tooth,
are prepared by shaping and reducing their size.
This is done to make room for the crowns that will slide over each supporting teeth.
These crowns also serve as holders of the pontic, which is the missing tooth’s replacement.
Next, an impression of the abutments or the supporting teeth is made so a dental laboratory can custom-fit the bridge.
Finally temporary bridge is inserted to protect the abutments as well as the space between them.
In most cases, on your second visit the permanent bridge is placed and adjusted to insure proper fit and function.
If the fit of the bridge is satisfactory your dentist will proceed with permanently cementing it into place.
Keep in mind in some instances the bridge received back form the laboratory may not fit as expected.
In these cases your dentist may have to take a second impression
or re-adjust the supporting teeth in order to fabricate a bridge that fits just right.
After the successful completion of the bridge
you may feel some discomfort, mild pain on biting or sensitivity to temperature changes for a few days.
As advised by your dentist, you can take over-the-counter pain medicine to alleviate the discomfort.
If these symptoms persist more than a few days, visit your dentist.
Please keep in mind that the longevity of your bridge depends in large part on your oral hygiene,
diet and the health of the supporting teeth and gums, as well as the quality of the material in the bridge.
Please ask your dentist for proper brushing and flossing techniques.
So let’s take a look at different options.
Even though rare, a full-metal bridge is more suitable for replacing a missing tooth in the back of your mouth.
Metal bridges are often the best option for people who have worn their teeth excessively.
Note: there are different metals to choose from, but as a rule; the more precious metal or gold content in the metal
the better the fit of the bridge and the better the health of gums around it.
Keep in mind fit is an important factor in sealing out the bacteria that tries to get between the bridge and the tooth,
possibly causing decay and premature failure of the bridge.
In addition, gold tends to limit sensitivity or discoloration of the teeth
or gums around the bridge compared to non-precious metals.
All-porcelain bridges are generally considered the most aesthetic choice
since they closely resembles the color and appearance of your teeth.
However, all-porcelain bridges tend to be more fragile compared to other bridges.
Porcelain bridges are most widely used to replace missing teeth in the front of the mouth.
Porcelain continues to improve and in fact there are newly developed porcelain materials,
such as zirconium and empress 2, that can better withstand the forces of chewing.
Porcelain bridges can give you the Hollywood smile that you are looking for.
The third kind of bridge has a porcelain exterior with a metal framework supporting it underneath.
The porcelain gives you the desired aesthetic
and the metal framework provides better structural support making the porcelain much stronger.
This type of porcelain-metal hybrid bridge can be used to replace missing teeth in any area of the mouth, front or back.
Again, as a rule the more precious metal or gold content in the metal the better the fit of the bridge
and the better the health of gums around it.
Your dentist will recommend the bridge type that will be best for you, both in terms of quality and aesthetics.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
Have you lost your teeth due to: severe tooth decay, gum disease, trauma, or even failed root canal?
If so, you may qualify for implant treatment.
Dental implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth in your mouth.
Implants are made of titanium or similar materials that are well suited to the human body.
They are artificial replacements for teeth roots that support a restoration or a dental appliance.
Besides its cosmetic advantage, replacing the missing teeth will restore your ability to properly chew and speak.
In addition, the space caused by the missing teeth may allow the surrounding teeth to shift into that space.
This shifting could cause a misalignment in your bite that can result in problems with your jaw joint.
These shifted teeth are harder to clean, making them more susceptible to gum disease, decay, or even additional tooth loss.
Before we start, it’s important that you notify your dentist of your medical condition,
such as whether you have any artificial joints, diabetes, or a history of heart and valve conditions.
You should also inform your dentist of any medications you are currently or have previously taken,
such as Redux or Fen-Phen, blood thinners or importantly, medications that contain bisphosphonates like Fosamax.
It normally takes a few phases and several months for your dentist to complete the treatment.
In the first phase, your dentist will place the implants in your jaw bone.
It requires three to 6 months for the bone to fuse to the implants.
In the second phase, your dentist will place an extension or a post to extend the implants above the gum line.
This process can also be performed during the first phase, depending on the technique chosen by your dentist.
After your gums are healed, it is time for an impression to be made
and a final restoration or appliance to be fabricated by the dental laboratory.
In most cases, on your final visit,
the restoration or the dental appliance is placed and adjusted to ensure proper fit and function.
While every effort is made to place a successful and functioning implant, it sometimes fails.
This is mainly due to lack of proper attachment between the implant and the jaw bone during the bone-fusing phase.
Other problems, such as breakage of the implants, breakage or loosening of its restoration or dental appliance
and infection of the surrounding gums are also rare possibilities.
Finally, due to differences in the shapes of the jaws
and the bone density, the back area of upper jaw may require an additional procedure,
such as a sinus lifting, to increase the predictability and long-term success.
Please keep in mind that the longevity of your implant and its restoration depends in large part on your oral hygiene,
diet, and the health of the supporting bones and gums.
Please ask your dentist for proper brushing and flossing techniques.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
Veneers are custom-made, tooth colored shells that are bonded to your teeth with dental cement or bonding adhesive.
They cover the front surfaces of your teeth and can help improve your appearance and smile
by covering up a tooth that is discolored, misshaped, or worn down.
Veneers can also close gaps between teeth or repair a chipped tooth.
Veneers can be made from several different types of materials.
Generally your dentist will help you decide which type is best for you.
Porcelain veneers
Lumineers
Composite veneers
Porcelain veneers are the most common type of veneers.
Porcelain has a very shiny surface that closely resembles your enamel
and will give you a more natural and translucent appearance.
In addition, porcelain is stain resistant and it is also very friendly to your gums.
It normally takes two visits for your dentist to complete your veneers.
On the first visit your dentist will use a dental hand piece
to shape and prepare the teeth so the veneers will properly fit over them.
Next, an impression of your teeth is taken and temporary veneers may be placed to protect the prepared teeth.
The impression of your teeth is then sent to a dental laboratory where custom-fit veneers are made.
During this first visit your dentist will also help you choose the proper shade for the color of your veneers.
In most cases, on your second visit the veneers are placed and, if necessary, adjusted to create a proper fit.
If the fit, shape and color of the veneers are satisfactory,
your dentist will proceed with permanently cementing them into place.
Keep in mind in some instances the veneer received back from the laboratory may not fit as expected.
In these cases your dentist may have to take a second impression
or re-adjust the tooth in order to fabricate a veneer that fits just right and creates the beautiful smile you want.
Even though rare, during the first few days with your new veneers
you may feel some discomfort or sensitivity to temperature changes.
As advised by your dentist, you can take over-the-counter pain medicine to alleviate the discomfort.
If your symptoms persist more than a few days, visit your dentist.
Sometimes your newly cemented veneers may feel too tall.
In this case, you should also contact your dentist for further adjustment of the veneers.
Porcelain Veneers are usually not repairable should they chip or crack
so you should attempt to avoid biting directly on small hard items such as hard candies, your fingernails, or pens.
You should never chew on anything cold and hard such as ice.
If you grind your teeth during the day or at night,
your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your veneers from these grinding forces.
A night guard is a plastic cover that fits over your teeth to deflect hard forces.
Night guards will also increase the longevity of your veneers.
Finally, it is important to keep up with your daily brushing and flossing
to avoid getting cavities in your teeth with veneers as well as your other teeth.
If you have any additional questions please consult your dentist
[concluding music]

[intro music]
Like many things in life, the importance of something is never truly appreciated until it is gone.
If you’ve lost your teeth, whether by injury, tooth decay, or gum disease, you surely understand.
The good news is that you have options to replace them.
Dentures can help restore your way of life by helping you with day to day functions such as eating and speaking,
as well as help restore your confidence by improving your appearance and smile.
Making a denture is a process that usually takes about 6 to 12 weeks.
However, this can vary from one patient to another.
It also depends on the type of the denture
and the technique your dentist or the laboratory technician uses to make the denture.
Complete dentures are made using your mouth as a model.
First, your dentist will take an accurate impression of the upper and lower arches of your mouth.
This impression is then sent to the dental laboratory.
At the next visit, your dentist will record the relationship of the arches that best resembles your original bite
and helps you select the shape and color of the denture, teeth and gums.
Keep in mind the color of everyone’s gums varies.
To make a more natural denture, your dentist will help you choose the shade that best matches your mouth.
In the subsequent visits, your dentist will adjust your bite, test your speech,
and check the appearance and functionality of the denture, teeth and gums.
After a satisfactory fit and appearance are achieved,
the denture is then sent back to the laboratory for fabrication.
While every effort is made to make a good and functional denture,
please keep in mind that there is no such thing as a perfect denture.
After delivery of the denture,
it may require a few adjustment visits and some time for you and your new denture to adapt to each other.
The most important point to remember is that adjusting to your new dentures is a process;
it sometimes takes a little time to get used to.
A new denture can also alter your eating and speaking habits,
and it may require a bit of practicing before you get comfortable.
Finally, due to the differences in the shapes of the jaws and the strong muscle movement of the tongue and cheek,
lower denture may be harder to keep in the mouth compared to an upper denture.
There are new advances in making dentures.
One such advances, an implant supported denture that stabilizes the denture.
This kind of denture requires the placement of implants in your mouth before making the dental appliance.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
If you are scheduled to have a tooth pulled before getting your partial denture,
then your dentist may advise you to get a temporary partial denture
or a stay plate while your gums and their supporting bone are healing.
A stay plate will replace the missing tooth or teeth
and can help you with your chewing and speaking until a more permanent solution is achieved.
A stay plate will also help maintain your appearance when in public
and keep your existing teeth from shifting in your mouth and creating bigger problems.
Stay plates are made using your mouth as a model.
First, your dentist will take an accurate impression of the upper and lower arches of your mouth
and establish a bite that best resembles your original bite.
Your dentist will also help you select the shape and color of the stay plate teeth and gums.
This impression is then sent to the dental laboratory.
At the subsequent visit, the teeth will be removed and a stay plate will be delivered.
Please keep in mind that there is no such thing as a perfect stay plate.
After delivery, it may require a few adjustment visits and some time for you and your stay plate to adapt to each other.
Stay plates can also alter your eating.
You will not have the same chewing efficiency as you had with your natural teeth.
A stay plate will also alter your speaking, and it may require a bit of practicing before you get comfortable.
The most important point to remember is that adjusting to your stay plate is a process
and a stay plate is a temporary replacement until another form of treatment,
such as an implant, bridge or a partial denture, can be made.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
[concluding music]

[intro music]
Partial dentures are replacement teeth for people who have lost one or more of their teeth.
Partial dentures can be taken in and out of the mouth and consist of a denture base,
which closely resembles the color of your gums and denture teeth, which are attached to a supporting framework.
The partial denture then attaches to the existing teeth via a clasp or some other retentive device.
Making a partial denture requires about 6-8 weeks, however this can vary from one patient to another.
It also could depend on the type of denture and the technique your dentist or the laboratory technician uses.
The first step in making a partial denture is the preparation of the teeth.
During this phase your dentist may prepare the teeth that the partial denture will use for support.
Next, your dentist will take an accurate impression of the upper and lower arches of your mouth and records your bite.
The impressions are then sent to the dental laboratory.
One or two more visits may be necessary before your partial denture is delivered to you.
At the subsequent visits your dentist will evaluate your bite,
test your speech and check the appearance and function of the partial denture teeth and gums.
After the final satisfactory fit and appearance are achieved,
the denture is then sent back to the laboratory for final fabrication.
While every effort is made to make a good and functional partial denture,
it may require a few adjustment visits and a little time for you and your partial denture to adapt to each other.
The most important point to remember is that adjusting to your partial denture is a process;
in some cases, it takes weeks to get used to a partial denture.
A new partial denture can also alter your eating and speaking habits
and it may require a bit of practicing before you get comfortable.
There are newly developed techniques in making partial dentures.
One such advance is a partial denture that uses a special material called valplast
and is more aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
This kind of partial does not use metal as its base and has hooks that are made with a flexible plastic material.
If you are scheduled to have a tooth pulled before getting your partial denture,
then your dentist may advise you to get a temporary partial denture
or a stay plate while your gums and their supporting bone are healing.
A stay plate is a temporary replacement
until another form of treatment such as an implant, bridge or a partial denture can be made.
A stay plate will replace the missing tooth or teeth
and can help you with your chewing and speaking until a more permanent solution is achieved.
A stay plate will also help maintain your appearance when in public
and keep your existing teeth from shifting in your mouth and creating bigger problems.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
For a denture to fit and work well,
you need to commit to initially keeping it in your mouth as long as possible for the first few weeks
so your cheek muscles and your tongue learn to adjust to it.
Keeping the denture in the mouth also helps to more easily identify the areas that need additional adjustments.
It is important to visit your dentist to adjust your new denture 24-72 hours, after receiving it.
Following this initial adjustment, the newly made denture may still need an additional adjustment about a week or 2 later.
You should never attempt to make your own adjustments or repair the denture at home.
While dentures are an adequate replacement for your missing teeth,
you should not expect the dentures to have the same efficiency as your natural teeth.
Initially, wearing the new denture may cause new sensations as well as an increase in your saliva in your mouth.
Both are quite normal as your mouth is simply adjusting to the new dental appliance and its presence.
After a few weeks the sensations and salvia increase should subside as you and your new denture adapt to each other.
It is normal to develop some sore spots right after wearing the denture for the first few days.
You may also accidentally bite your cheek, lip or tongue;
these are all very normal occurrences.
Please visit your dentist for all necessary adjustments of the denture.
You should avoid eating hard or sticky foods for the first few weeks.
Try breaking your food into small pieces for easier chewing
Chew with your back teeth rather than the front ones
and try to balance the denture by chewing on both sides of your mouth.
Try to practice speaking as dentures normally change the way you pronounce some words.
Reading out loud for 15 minutes twice a day speeds the adaptation.
If you hear a clicking or a whistling sound while talking try speaking more slowly.
If these problems persist you should visit your dentist.
Dentures, like everything else in the mouth, require cleaning.
First you should remove your denture from your mouth and brush your gums,
tongue and palate to clean the area and increase the blood circulation around these areas.
Next, clean the denture using a denture cleansing paste
and a soft denture brush and then rinse the denture with cold or warm water.
Keep in mind the denture needs to stay moist at all times
so at this point you should either place it back in your mouth or soak it in a cleanser solution at night time.
Make sure you avoid the use of a regular toothbrush and regular toothpaste to clean your denture.
You should also stay away from using hot water when rinsing it.
You can use a denture adhesive for better retention of your dentures.
Do not use a denture adhesive on a loose or ill-fitting denture.
A loose denture may require a reline or other repair to improve its fit.
Do not force a partial denture into your mouth if it does not go into place as it usually does.
Doing so can break the clasps or the natural teeth supporting the partial denture.
Lastly, you should return to see your dentist as directed or at least annually, even if your denture feels fine.
Your dentist will evaluate the fit and function of the denture as well as the health of the gums underneath.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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[intro music]
If you’ve suffered severe tooth decay injury or gum disease and need your remaining teeth replaced,
an immediate denture can help you relieve some of the concerns you may have
after the extraction process is complete.
An immediate denture, as its name implies,
is a denture that is placed in your mouth immediately after your teeth are removed.
It makes the transition to dentures less noticeable
and also helps you keep performing everyday functions like chewing and speaking.
Immediate dentures are made using your mouth as a model.
First, your dentist will take an accurate impression of the upper and lower arches of your mouth
and establish a bite that best resembles your original bite.
Your dentist will also help you select the shape and color of the denture teeth and gums.
This impression is then sent to the dental laboratory.
At the next visit, your dentist will adjust your bite,
test your speech, and check the appearance and functionality of the denture teeth and gums.
Sometimes it is necessary to repeat this step to ensure that everything is just right.
After a satisfactory fit and appearance are achieved, the denture is then sent back to the laboratory for fabrication.
At the subsequent visit, the remaining teeth will be removed and the denture will be delivered.
Please note that the extractions may be performed at one visit or they may be removed in two or more visits.
Depending on the number and condition of the teeth to be extracted, the shape of your jaws, and your health condition,
your dentist will best advise you of the preferred timing of your extractions.
While every effort is made to make a good and functional denture,
please keep in mind that there is no such thing as a perfect denture.
After delivery of the immediate denture,
it may require a few adjustment visits and some time for you and your immediate denture to adapt to each other.
This is due to the fact that when your gums heal following the extractions, they will shrink over the course of a few months.
Then the denture needs to be re-based or re-lined to fit properly.
The most important point to remember is that adjusting to your immediate dentures is a process.
In some cases, it takes weeks or months to get used to your new dental appliance.
An immediate denture can also alter your eating.
You will not have the same chewing efficiency as you had with your natural teeth.
An immediate denture will also alter your speaking, and it may require a bit of practicing before you get comfortable.
Keep in mind that due to differences in the shapes of the jaws and the strong muscle movements of the tongue and cheek,
a lower denture may be harder to keep in the mouth compared to an upper denture.
Fortunately, there are new alternatives now,
such as implants, which can help restore functionality that is more like natural teeth.
You can discuss this possibility with your dentist.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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While every effort is made to make a good and functional denture,
it is sometimes hard to achieve a stable and retentive denture.
This is mainly due to the jaw bone constantly shrinking with age, smoking,
or some systemic diseases, such as diabetes or even chewing pressure on the existing denture.
However, there are new advances in making dentures.
One such advance as an implant supported denture that increases the stability of the denture.
This kind of dental appliance requires the placement of implants in your mouth before making the denture.
Dental implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth in your mouth.
Implants are made of titanium or similar materials that are well suited to the human body.
They are artificial replacements for teeth roots that support a restoration or a dental appliance.
Before we start, it’s important that you notify your dentist of your medical condition,
such as whether you have any artificial joints, diabetes, or a history of heart and valve conditions.
You should also inform your dentist of any medications you are currently or have previously taken,
such as Redux or Fen-Phen, blood thinners or importantly, medications that contain bisphosphonates like Fosamax.
It normally takes a few phases and several months for your dentist to complete the treatment.
In the first phase, your dentist will place the implants in your jaw bone.
It requires three to 6 months for the bone to fuse to the implants.
In the second phase, your dentist will place an extension or a post to extend the implants above the gum line.
This process can also be performed during the first phase, depending on the technique chosen by your dentist.
After your gums are healed, it is time for an impression to be made
and a final restoration or appliance to be fabricated by the dental laboratory.
In most cases, on your final visit,
the restoration or the dental appliance is placed and adjusted to ensure proper fit and function.
While every effort is made to place a successful and functioning implant, it sometimes fails.
This is mainly due to lack of proper attachment between the implant and the jaw bone during the bone-fusing phase.
Other problems, such as breakage of the implants, breakage or loosening of its restoration or dental appliance
and infection of the surrounding gums are also rare possibilities.
Finally, due to differences in the shapes of the jaws and the bone density,
the back area of upper jaw may require an additional procedure,
such as a sinus lifting, to increase the predictability and long-term success.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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After your tooth is prepared and ready to be filled, it is important to pick the right filling material.
Your dentist would best advise you on this.
The first filling type is amalgam, commonly referred to as silver fillings.
Amalgams are a mixture of metals such as mercury, silver, copper, and tin.
The second type is a composite filling,
which consists of plastic and glass particles and closely matches your tooth color.
There is no one right filling for everyone.
In most cases, your best bet is to follow your dentist’s recommendation, but in order to make an informed decision,
here is what you should know about each type of filling.
An amalgam filling may have sensitivity to cold foods and drinks after placement for a few days or even longer.
In addition, these silver fillings often discolor the tooth and surrounding gum.
You should consult with your dentist before choosing amalgam fillings.
Composite is the filling of choice when it comes to matching your tooth color.
Composite fillings consist of plastic and glass particles.
They have become the most popular filling material because, in addition to closely resembling your existing tooth color,
they also solidly bond or glue to the tooth.
Also, they don’t contain mercury or any other metal like silver fillings,
and there is less likelihood of sensitivity to cold food and drinks.
If you have any additional questions, please consult your dentist.
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When you wake up in the morning, do you experience pain in your jaw joint?
Do you have difficulty opening or closing your mouth?
Do you have sensitivity in your teeth, or do they look shorter?
Do you get routine headaches?
These could be clear signs of grinding or bruxing.
If uncontrolled, you can damage your jaw joint, your teeth, or any dental work you have received from your dentist.
The exact reason for grinding is still unknown, but there are some factors that are associated with this problem,
such as stress and anxiety, drug abuse, excess use of caffeine, smoking,
excess use of alcohol, some prescription medication, malocclusion or misbite,
and finally, some disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.
There is currently no cure for bruxing, but it can be controlled.
If you grind your teeth during the day or at night,
your dentist will recommend a night guard to protect your teeth from these grinding forces.
A night guard is a plastic cover that fits over your teeth to deflect the hard forces of chewing.
Night guards will also increase the longevity of your dental work.
During the first visit, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth.
This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory where a custom fit night guard is made.
On your second visit, your dentist will show you how to place it in your mouth and will adjust it to your bite.
There are different kinds of night guards, from soft materials to harder plastic materials.
Your dentist will recommend the material best suited for you.
If you have any additional questions, please consult with your dentist.
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