Westmont (630) 541-8374 
519 N Cass Ave, Suite 102, Westmont, IL 60559
Villa Park (630) 541-8374 101 E. St. Charles Rd,Suite 101, Villa Park, IL 60181
Westmont (630) 541-8374 519 N Cass Ave, Suite 401, Westmont, IL 60559
Villa Park (630) 541-8374 101 E. St. Charles Rd,Suite 101, Villa Park, IL 60181
If you suffer from advanced periodontal disease or having to deal extreme sensitivity, you may just need a tooth extraction. It’s a simple process that involves the dentist removing the affected tooth, and the process requires no major surgery.
Why undergo a tooth extraction
In many situations, undergoing a simple tooth extraction can help in relieving pain or preparing you for another restorative or cosmetic procedure. Here are some of the common reasons for extraction:
How is a tooth extraction done?
Before anything, the dentist takes X-rays of the affected tooth. The dentist will then administer you an anesthetic, so you don’t feel pain while the procedure is on. Then the dentist will lift the tooth and soften the gums and ligaments at the base of the tooth. Finally, the dentist now uses a pair of forceps to rock the tooth continuously until it pulls out of the ligament that holds it firmly in the gum. There are some cases where a tooth might not succumb to the soft tugging by the dentist. In these situations, there may be the need to break up the tooth into smaller sizes before it is removed.
We will then fill the socket, where a tooth was removed, with gauze and you will be made to apply some pressure by biting down. The dentist will also close the socket using stitches, if necessary.
If you are unable to show up for your scheduled extraction, please get in touch with us, as we may need to make an alternative arrangement for you. Please do get in touch with us for any concerns or questions.
The cephalometric X-ray refers to a specialized tool with which dentists can completely capture the radiographic image of the side of the face. Generally, X-rays make it possible for dentists to analyze the jawbone, teeth and other tissues beyond the capabilities of the naked eye.
Cephalometric X-rays are known to be extraoral, which means there is no need to insert a film or plate inside the mouth. The sinus and nasal passages, which the intraoral bitewing X-rays missed, are displayed by the panoramic and Cephalometric X-rays.
Normally, a panoramic X-ray machine is used to take Cephalometric X-rays. This adapted equipment usually features a unique cephalometric film holder which mounts on a mechanical arm. The dentist can get a clear picture of the oral structure when the image from an X-ray gets exposed to ionization. There is an advantage of using both panoramic and cephalometric X-rays – they expose the body to less radiation.
Cephalometric X-rays seem to be less common than bitewing X-rays or “full sets,” but they perform a range of functions:
How are cephalometric X-rays taken?
There is no pain associated with Cephalometric X-rays. The head is placed between the film holder and the mechanical rotating arm. The arm captures images of the teeth, mouth, and face as it rotates around the head. The way the body is positioned will determine the clarity of these images. Usually, the images get a magnification of up to 30%, which exposes any traces of diseases, decay or injury.
After cephalometric X-rays are captured, a full side profile of the head becomes visible to the dentist. This can make it possible to analyze the impact braces might have on the teeth and facial profile. Another benefit this type of x-ray has is that it can be used to determine specific measurements before the creation of dental implants.
Any concerns or questions you may have about cephalometric X-rays should be directed to your dentist.
Digital radiography, also known as digital X-ray, refers to the latest technology used for dental X-rays. It’s a technology that adopts the use of an electronic sensor (in place of X-ray films) that captures and stores a computer’s digital image. It’s possible to magnify this image, which makes it easier for the dentist to detect problems. With Digital X-rays, there is 80-90% reduction in radiation.
Dental X-rays provide important insights that are not seen during regular dental examinations. The information is used by dental hygienists and dentists in the accurate detection and treatment of dental problems. Detecting problem areas without X-rays is difficult.
Dental X-rays may reveal:
Early detection and treatment of dental problems can help you save money and time, as well as preserve your teeth!
Are dental X-rays safe?
Natural radiations abound in our environment. The level of radiation produced by Digital X-rays is significantly lower than what is produced by normal dental X-rays. Aside from the fact that Digital X-rays are safer for the patient, they are more comfortable and faster, which means you won’t have to spend too much time in the dental office. Also, the need to develop the X-rays is eliminated since the image is digital and captured electronically. This prevents the disposal of toxic waste into our environment.
Despite digital X-rays being considered safe due to the low level of radiation, dentists still take proactive measures to minimize the exposure of patients to radiation. An important precaution is taking X-rays only when they are necessary, and protecting the body by wearing lead shield apron.
How often should one take dental X-rays?
The health needs of each patient will determine how often they are required to take X-rays. Your dental hygienist and dentist will take a look at your dental and medical history, your age, signs, and symptoms before recommending necessary X-rays for you.
Dentists usually recommend a full mouth series of dental X-rays for new patients. This is usually perfect for three to five years. Bite-wing (when the bottom and top teeth are clenched) X-rays are taken during check-up visits and are only recommended at most twice a year to reveal any new dental problems.
Fluoride offers the most prevention against tooth decay. This mineral is available in nearly all water supplies and food. Fluoride’s benefits have been well documented for over half a decade and enjoy support from lots of professional and health organizations.
Fluoride functions in two ways:
Topical fluoride seeps into the tooth enamel’s outer layer and strengthens the teeth as they erupt, making them highly resistant to decay. Topical fluoride can be obtained by using dental products that contain fluoride, such as mouth rinses, toothpaste, and gels. Dental hygienists and dentists recommend a professional fluoride application twice a year for children.
Systemic fluoride ensures that the erupted teeth and those developing under the gums are strong. Systemic fluoride can be obtained from common foods and water supplies in our community. It is also found in supplements which your dentist or doctor can prescribe. Dentists generally recommend fluoride drops for infants, while tablets are ideal for children and teens.
It’s crucial to take note of the amounts of fluoride ingested by a child. If a child ingests too much fluoride while the teeth develop, it could lead to a condition known as fluorosis (a condition characterized by white spots on the teeth).
Although fluoride can be obtained from food and water by many people, it is sometimes not enough to prevent decay. The use of professional or home fluoride treatments may be recommended by your dental hygienist or dentist for these reasons:
Understand that fluoride is not enough for the prevention of tooth decay! You need to floss regularly, brush twice a day, at least, eat balanced diets, and consult your dentist regularly.
For years now the focus of doctors has been on computerized axial tomography scans (CAT) CAT scans refer to an X-ray procedure that makes use of a range of X-ray images with the computer’s help to produce 3D or cross-sectional views of internal structures and organs in the body. For instance, 3D imaging needs to be examined before performing a knee replacement surgery.
However, dentists have begun to use i-CAT® scans and 3D imaging techniques to access a full view of the skull and mouth. The advantage of using 3D imaging normal dental x-rays is that the tissues, nerves, bone density and bone structure become clearly visible.
The duration of i-CAT® scans can be as low as 30 seconds. This implies that the body deals with less radiation than what would have been obtained if the use of bitewing X-rays were adopted. I-CAT® scans are mainly used in the planning of dental implant treatment as well as other surgery.
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants remain the most sophisticated option out there, but the process has a history of being time-consuming. I-CAT® scans make it possible to place implants within a short time. It is believed that, because of this unique type of imaging, a single visit will be enough to place implants in the foreseeable future.
How are i-CAT® scans used?
One huge advantage of i-CAT ® scans is that the dentist can magnify some parts of the face. Also, the dentist has the option of having a quick view of the cross-sectional image of the jaw, which makes it faster and easier to plan treatment.
Some of the ways in which i-CAT® scans are utilized in dentistry include the following:
How are i-CAT® scans performed?
I-CAT® scans can be carried out quickly. The heart of the i-CAT® scanner features a Cone Beam. The patient is made to sit on a special sit and in a stationary position. What the cone beams do is that they take lots of pictures of the face. The pictures taken are then used to put together an accurate 3D image of the inner mechanisms of the jaw and face. The dentist has the option of zooming in any area and viewing them from alternate angles.
There have been reports from previous patients about the comfortability of the i-CAT® scanner, as it allows them to remain seated all the time. Also, this scanner offers an open environment, eliminating claustrophobic feelings. The i-CAT® scan effectively minimizes the cost of dental care, reduces treatment duration and leads to great results regarding dental surgery.
Do you have questions about 3D imaging or i-CAT® scans? Please get in touch with us.
Panoramic X-rays (also commonly known as orthopantomograms or Panorex® ) refer to wraparound images of the teeth and face. They allow us to get a view that would have been impossible for the naked eye to see. Generally, X-rays reveal hidden structures, such as early signs of cavities, wisdom teeth, and also reveal bone loss and fractures.
Panoramic X-rays are generally extraoral and can be carried out easily. Usually, when it comes to dental X-rays the film is placed in the mouth, but the panoramic film is placed inside a mechanism, and this mechanism rotates around the head.
You only need to take panoramic X-rays when needed, unlike bitewing X-rays that must be done every few years. However, a panoramic X-ray does not provide a comprehensive view of the teeth, but rather allows the mandibular nerve, nasal areas, and sinus areas to be viewed. When a patient is experiencing extreme pain, or when it is suspected that a sinus problem has resulted in dental problems, Panoramic X-rays are often preferred to bitewing X-rays.
Panoramic X-rays have lots of versatility in dentistry, and are useful in:
How are panoramic X-rays taken?
The panoramic X-ray allows the dentist to have a two-dimensional view of both the lower and the upper jaw. Panoramic X-rays are mostly used to show how wisdom teeth are positioned and to check whether the mandibular nerve would be affected by dental implants.
The Panorex equipment features a revolving arm that supports the X-ray generator, as well as a moving film that is responsible for holding the pictures. With the head positioned between these devices, The X-ray generator moves around the head and takes pictures. The sharpness and usefulness of the X-ray will be determined by the position of the body and head. The pictures can be magnified by up to 30% to give attention to detail.
Panoramic X-rays are useful for diagnosis, as well as planning further treatment. They are also safer than other types of x-rays due to the release of less radiation to the body.
Please get in touch with us if you have questions about panoramic X-rays
A sealant refers to a plastic coating usually applied to chewing surfaces of premolars, molars or any pits in the teeth. These pits or grooves are where over 75% of decay begins. These types of teeth are more likely to decay and are hard to clean. Covering deep grooves with a sealant makes it easy to clean the surface of the tooth.
While sealants are capable of preventing tooth decay, they still need to be checked for chipping and wear regularly.
Why use sealants?
Children and teenagers – once the first permanent back teeth appear or any time within the cavity-prone years (6-16 years)
Adults – tooth surfaces with depressions and deep grooves
Baby teeth – occasionally carried out if child is prone to cavity and teeth deep depressions and grooves
What do sealants involve?
Your dental hygienist or dentist applies sealants, and the process is not time-consuming.
Before sealing, the teeth are first cleaned and surrounded with cotton, so the area remains dry. The dentist applies a special solution to the enamel so the sealant can bond with the teeth. The teeth are rinsed, dried, and the sealant is applied to the enamel to cover the depressions and deep grooves. The material hardens automatically or with the use of a curing light, depending on the sealant used.
Healthy eating, proper home care and regular visit to the dentist enhance the life of your sealant.
Dental Exam
Your dentist will conduct a detailed dental exam when you visit initially. The following will be performed by your dentist at check-up exams:
Professional Dental Cleaning
Professional dental cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis, is conducted by Registered Dental Hygienists. During your cleaning appointment you will undergo a dental exam, as well as the following:
Dental radiographs (X-rays) are valuable and preventative diagnostic equipment that reveals important information which may not be revealed during dental exams. Dentists use the information to detect dental abnormalities and also provide an appropriate treatment plan. However, without X-rays, it may be impossible to detect problem areas.
Dental X-rays may reveal:
You can save lots of money, time, extreme pain, and your teeth when dental problems are detected on time!
Are dental X-rays safe?
We all have had to deal with various forms of radiation in our environment. The total amount of radiation a person receives from a full mouth series of X-rays is equivalent to the amount the person is exposed to in one day from natural sources.
The level of radiation produced by Dental X-rays is low and considered safe. Dentists try to ensure that they limit a patient’s exposure to dental X-rays. One precaution involves shielding the body using a lead apron and the use of modern, fast film that reduces the exposure time of each X-ray.
How often should one take dental X-rays?
The health needs of each patient will determine how often they are required to take dental X-rays. Your dental hygienist and dentist will take a look at your dental and medical history, your age, signs, and symptoms before recommending necessary X-rays for you.
Dentists usually recommend a full mouth series of dental X-rays for new patients. This is usually perfect for three to five years. Bite-wing (when the bottom and top teeth are clenched) X-rays are taken during check-up visits and are only recommended at most twice a year to reveal any new dental problems.
Our ultimate goal is a healthy and beautiful smile for each of our patients. Your home care plays an important role. Eating balanced diets, taking fewer snacks, and adopting the use of various dental aids that reduce the bacterial and plague that cause dental disease.
Tooth brushing – try brushing your teeth twice daily, at least (especially before you sleep at night), with toothpaste and toothbrush that are approved by the ADA
You can also use electric brushes. They are effective at removing plague and are easy to use. You only need to place the bristles of the brush on your teeth, and the brush will do its job of cleaning several teeth at a go.
Flossing – flossing every day is the best way to clean under the gums and between the teeth. Flossing does not just help you clean these spaces, it also prevents the build-up of colonies, preventing bone, gum, and teeth damage.
It is recommended that you use floss holders if you find it challenging to use conventional floss.
Rinsing – you should rinse your mouth after brushing or after meals if you don’t brush. If you have purchased any over-the-counter rinsing product, ensure you ask your dentist if it is okay for you to use.
Other dental aids should be used according to the recommendation of your dental hygienist or dentist. Rubber tip stimulators, medicated rinses, interdental brushes, tongue cleaners, fluoride, irrigation devices, etc., can spice up a good home care routine.
When it comes to oral hygiene, flossing and brushing are of critical importance. Though periodic professional dental cleanings are known to remove debris, tartar, and plague, homecare routines are great too. Flossing properly results in cleaner teeth, more sparkling smile, as well as prevents severe diseases.
Here’s why flossing and brushing are important:
The Proper Way to Brush
You should brush your teeth twice daily (morning and night). A small toothbrush with rounded-end bristles is ideal for the teeth. The brush should also not be more than three months old. The head of the brush should be small so that it can access the corners of the mouth, and its brittles should be soft and gentle on the gums. Electric toothbrushes have been given the nod by the American Dental Association (ADA). According to the ADA, those with rotating heads are better than regular toothbrushes.
Here’s a simple guide to effective brushing:
The Proper Way to Floss
Flossing helps in the removal of plague that forms between the teeth. Flossing is effective at preventing periodontal disease. It is hard to touch the interdental regions with a toothbrush, so, cleaning with dental floss every day is recommended. It is also important that you choose with a pleasant flavor.
Here’s a simple guide to effective flossing:
Please get in touch with our office if you have questions about flossing or brushing correctly.
Bonding refers to a cosmetic procedure where the dentist uses composite resin to repair your smile. Cosmetic bonding is the ideal solution if you are looking for an alternative to costly and invasive procedures like orthodontics or veneers. Bonding allows uneven or chipped teeth to be corrected quickly and cheaply, giving you your self-confidence back. Also, bonding is usually done and completed in a single visit and without the need for any anesthetic!
Just like many cosmetic procedures, bonding will fade over time, eventually requiring replacement. Bonding has been proven to be durable and capable of lasting for several years.
Reasons for cosmetic bonding:
What does dental bonding involve?
First, the dentist isolates the affected teeth and prepares them for bonding by etching. After the application of the etching conditioning liquid, there will be small crevices on the surface of the teeth, allowing the teeth to have a stronger adhesion to the bonding agent.
A bonding agent that cements composite in place will then be applied by the dentist. After the application of several layers of the tooth-colored composite, a specially calibrated light will be used to harden the composite and bonding resin. After the setting of the composite, the bonded areas are polished, buffed, and smoothed to blend naturally with the surrounding teeth.
Please contact our practice if you want a more confident smile and to learn more about bonding.
Dental implants are a great solution when it comes to replacing missing teeth and providing an effective solution to issues of complete or removable partial dentures. Implants offer excellent stability for these dental appliances.
In simple terms, dental implants refer to artificial teeth and roots that are surgically placed in the upper and lower jawbone by a Periodontist (a gum and supporting bone specialist) or dentist. The teeth that attach to implants look natural and can restore the smile of a patient!
Dental implants are durable, strong and capable of lasting for many years. Occasionally, they may have to be replaced or re-tightened because of normal wear.
Reasons for dental implants:
What does getting dental implants involve?
To get dental implants, one has to visit the dentist a couple of times over several months
First, the X-ray of the teeth and jaw are taken to determine the available gum tissue, bone, and spacing for an implant. The area is made numb, and the implant is surgically planted into the bone and given up to 6 months to heal. Depending on the implant type, a second surgical procedure may be required to place the “post” that is supposed to hold the artificial teeth firmly.
The artificial teeth form after several weeks and are fitted to the anchor’s post portion. This step may take up to two months because there may be a need for several fittings. The artificial teeth are attached to the implant after a period of healing, giving the patient great comfort and stability.
You will get care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good eating habits and oral hygiene, as well as visiting the dentist regularly, will improve the life your new implant.
For questions and concerns about dental implants, please feel free to contact our office.
LUMINEERS® are an effective, alternative solution for those who are not satisfied with the appearance of their teeth. These extremely thin, porcelain slips are perfectly fitted over teeth, giving them a completely beautiful and cosmetically perfect look. A discolored smile can lower a person’s confidence. LUMINEERS® are the most suitable alternative for patients who want to improve their smile without harmful chemicals, surgery or painful treatments.
Before applying LUMINEERS®, the dentist must ensure that the gums, bone and underlying teeth must be healthy. Patients with tooth decay or gum disease must be treated before LUMINEERS® are placed. LUMINEERS®, unlike veneers, remain intact for more than 20 years or taken off upon request to reveal the original teeth. LUMINEERS® can be placed in two appointments, and immediately improve your smile.
Some of the problems LUMINEERS® can solve include the following:
How can I benefit from LUMINEERS®?
LUMINEERS® have lots of advantages over similar solutions. Most obvious is that there is no need for any severe alterations of the teeth before the placement of LUMINEERS®. The covers are so thin that they do not affect eating and speech.
Some of the other pros of LUMINEERS® include:
Do LUMINEERS® have enough strength?
LUMINEERS® are made from Cerinate® porcelain, which is believed to be exceptionally strong. Although LUMINEERS® are significantly thinner than veneers; they don’t chip or break easily. Also, it is possible to balance and color-modify Cerinate® porcelain. This implies that various levels of translucency and opaqueness can be utilized.
How are LUMINEERS® applied to the teeth?
The fact that little etching has to be done beforehand is one of the major reasons LUMINEERS® LUMINEERS® are easy to place. Whereas, with veneers, the dentist might have to drill or permanently alter many teeth before arriving at the best fit. However, LUMINEERS® allow you to achieve impressive results without any extensive etching, anesthesia or drilling. This factor alone is enough to reduce the amount of time a patient spends in the dental chair by half.
X-rays and bite impressions are taken during the initial visit to examine how the teeth fit together. The dentist also checks the teeth to ensure that there is no sign of gum disease or tooth decay. The dentist then works with the patient to select the desired color and the level of transparency of the LUMINEERS®. The dentist then sends the bite impressions to the laboratory to be custom-crafted.
At the second appointment, the LUMINEERS® are bonded to the teeth. Any bonding substance that has slipped from beneath the LUMINEERS® will be removed gently with the aid of a beveled featheredge margin. As soon as the LUMINEERS® are set, they are polished and smoothened. This smoothness makes it difficult for staining agents and bacterial to adapt easily to the surfaces of the LUMINEERS®.
Now the LUMINEERS® are separated. Before separation, they are still attached to the area where the bite impression suggests would be the natural joining point of the teeth. The treatment ends, resulting in a healthy, beautiful and confident smile.
For questions about LUMINEERS®, please feel free to contact our practice.
Cerinate® and LUMINEERS® are trademarks of Den-Mat Holdings LLC.
An inlay restoration refers to a specially made filling comprising of gold, composite material or tooth-colored porcelain. Porcelain inlays are hugely popular because of their resemblance to the natural tooth. A Porcelain inlay is only handled by a professional laboratory, and your dentist will permanently cement it into the tooth.
Inlays can serve as a conservative solution to repair teeth that have been damaged due to trauma or have lots of defective fillings. Inlays can be used instead of the conventional composite and silver fillings. Also, they offer more conservation than crowns because the preparation of inlays involves the removal of fewer teeth.
Just like in many dental restorations, inlays are not permanent and may need to be replaced someday. They have high durability and can last for many years, resulting in a beautiful, healthy and bold smile.
Reasons for inlay restorations:
What does getting an inlay involve?
An inlay procedure is usually done in two appointments. During your first appointment, you will have to take lots of highly accurate impressions. These impressions (mold) will be used to create your custom inlay as well as a temporary restoration.
The dentist will get rid of old filling material and decay while the tooth is numb. Then the space will be properly cleaned, preparing the surface for an inlay restoration. While a dental laboratory prepares your inlay, the tooth is protected with a temporary filling.
Your new inlay will be cemented properly into place at your second appointment. There may be the need for some adjustments to ensure a comfortable bite and the best fit.
When you complete your treatment, you will be given care instructions. Good oral hygiene routine, a healthy diet, and visiting the dentist regularly will go a long way in enhancing the life of your new inlay.
An onlay restoration refers to a specially made filling comprising of gold, composite material or tooth-colored porcelain. Porcelain onlays are hugely popular because of their resemblance to the natural tooth. Sometimes an onlay is also known as a partial crown. Porcelain onlays are only handled by a professional laboratory, and your dentist will permanently cement it into the tooth.
Onlays can serve as a conservative solution to repair teeth that have been damaged due to trauma or have lots of defective fillings. Onlays represent a great alternative to crowns because it involves the removal of less tooth structure. Onlays bear similarities with inlays with the exception that some of the chewing cusps are affected and need to be part of the restoration.
Just like in many dental restorations, onlays are not permanent and may need to be replaced someday. They have high durability and can last for many years, resulting in a beautiful, healthy and bold smile.
Reasons for onlay restorations:
What does getting an onlay involve?
An onlay procedure is usually done in two appointments. During your first appointment, you will have to take lots of highly accurate impressions. These impressions (mold) will be used to create your custom onlay as well as a temporary restoration.
The dentist will get rid of old filling material and decay while the tooth is numb. Then the space will be properly cleaned, preparing the surface for an onlay restoration. While a dental laboratory prepares your inlay, the tooth is protected with a temporary filling.
Your new onlay will be cemented properly into place at your second appointment. There may be the need for some adjustments to ensure a comfortable bite and the best fit.
When you complete your treatment, you will be given care instructions. Good oral hygiene routine, a healthy diet, and visiting the dentist regularly will go a long way in enhancing the life of your new onlay.
Prosthodontic crowns were traditionally made of porcelain fused to metal. It is a solid combination that is still in use by lots of dental professionals due to its cost-effectiveness.
However, the use of fully ceramic Procera® crowns has altered the aesthetic appearance of the smiles of many people in recent times. Procera® crowns work in the same way as traditional crowns, but the restoration tends to look more natural because of their fully ceramic composition.
Usually, dental crowns are done to strengthen a tooth that is injured. Dental professionals believe that it is better to restore a natural tooth than replace it with a prosthetic option. Procera® crowns are made with precision to fully restore the injured tooth.
Why might a Procera® crown be necessary?
Unlike other parts of the body, the teeth do not possess great healing ability. Therefore, the enamel of the teeth lacks the ability to heal itself once it is injured. The placement of dental crown helps to stabilize damaged teeth and prevent further deterioration. Enamel may be injured by decay, bacterial infections or trauma. Dentists effectively use crowns to seal teeth after root canal therapy.
Some of the advantages of procera® crowns over the porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) alternative include:
What does getting a Procera® crown involve?
Placing a crown is a common procedure that dentists oversee now and then. Impressions and X-rays are taken, and a comprehensive examination is conducted before treatment. The dental professional must check the health of adjacent gums and teeth to be sure there are no issues.
While the tooth is being shaped, the dentist administers a local anesthetic. The shaping ensures that the crown fits well on the tooth. This is a slowly executed process, and it ensures that there is no damage to the teeth. After preparing the tooth, an accurate mold of the tooth is created, and the porcelain color is selected. While the custom Procera®crown is created at the lab, a temporary crown is placed.
The temporary crown is taken off at the next appointment. The inner tooth is cleaned thoroughly to get rid of any bacteria. With the aid of a luting cement, the permanent Procera® crown is placed on the tooth, and the result is an amazing smile.
Please contact our office if you have concerns or questions about Procera® crown.
A composite or tooth-colored filling is used in the repair of a tooth that is affected by fractures, cracks, decay, etc. the affected part of the tooth is removed and replaced with a composite filling.
There are lots of filling materials out there, and they all have their pros and cons. You should be able to work with the dentist on the best option for you. The most commonly used type of fillings today is composite fillings and amalgam fillings. Since composite fillings have the same color as the tooth, it is easy to match them to the color of existing teeth, and they look beautiful when used in more visible areas of the mouth, such as the front teeth.
Just like many dental restorations, composite fillings may need to be replaced in the future.
They are durable and can keep giving you a confident and lasting smile for many years.
Reasons for composite fillings:
How are composite fillings placed?
Usually, composite fillings are done in one appointment. With the tooth numb, your dentist will get rid of any decay, if necessary. The space is then properly prepared and cleaned before placing the new fillings. Where the decay is close to the nerve, a special medication is applied for extra protection. The composite filling is then placed and polished, giving your tooth its original function and shape.
You may experience some sensitivity to cold and hot substances when your fillings are just placed. However, there will be a significant improvement as soon as your tooth gets used to the new filling.
You will get care instructions as soon as you complete your treatment. Good oral hygiene routine, a healthy diet, and visiting the dentist regularly will go a long way in enhancing the life of your new filling.
A crown or cap refers to a coving over the tooth that restores it to its original size and shape. A crown strengthens and protects tooth structure that cannot be restored using other restoration methods.
While many types of crown exist, porcelain (tooth colored crown) tends to be most popular because it resembles your natural teeth. They are extremely durable and capable of lasting for many years, but they may eventually need to be replaced just like other dental restorations. Porcelain crowns are designed to match the color, size, and shape of your teeth, resulting in a brighter and healthier smile.
Reasons for crowns:
What does getting a crown involve?
Usually, a crown procedure requires two appointments. During your first appointment, you have to take several highly accurate impressions (or molds) that will be used in creating your custom crown. A temporary crown will be created using a mold. This will be placed on your tooth for about two weeks until your new crown has been created by the dental lab.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist prepares the tooth by getting rid of any decay and shaping the surface to fit the crown. Next, a temporary cement will be used to place your temporary crown, and you will have your bite examined to be sure you are biting properly.
Your temporary crown will be taken off at your second appointment. Your tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown placed to ensure that the bite and spacing are accurate.
You will get dental instructions and encouraged to visit the dentist regularly for your new crown to be checked.
A dental bridge refers to a non-removable solution and is a great way of replacing missing teeth.
There are different types of bridges. You should work with your dentist to determine the best option for your case. The most popular is the “traditional bridge” made of porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain fixed bridges are have become so popular because they resemble your natural teeth. This particular bridge is made of two crowns going over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and then attached to artificial teeth, occupying the space left by one or more missing teeth.
Dental bridges have high durability and can last many years. However, they may need to be replaced or re-cemented as a result of normal wear.
Reasons for a fixed bridge:
What does getting a fixed bridge involve?
You can get a bridge in two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, a portion of the enamel is removed so as to accommodate a crown. Then a highly accurate impression (mold) is produced and sent to a dental lab for the fabrication of the bridge. Also, the patient wears a temporary bridge for weeks until the next appointment.
At your second appointment, your permanent bridge will be properly checked, adjusted and cemented for the best fit. In some situations your dentist may temporary cement the bridge, allowing your tissue and teeth time to become used to its new bridge. The bridge will be cemented permanently at a later time.
When you complete your treatment, you will be given care instructions. Proper flossing, brushing, as well as visiting the dentist regularly, will enhance the life of your permanent bridge.
Veneers refer to fragile pieces of durable porcelain that are custom made by a professional dental lab. They are usually bonded to the front teeth to give a bold and appealing smile.
Veneers are capable of renewing your teeth and smile. They serve as an alternative to crown and serve as a great option in the treatment of many dental conditions.
Just like most dental restoration, veneers may need to be replaced. They are highly durable and can last many years, resulting in a more confident and beautiful smile.
Reasons for porcelain veneers:
What does getting porcelain veneers involve?
Veneers can be completed in two visits, and there may not be the need for any anesthesia during the procedure. The teeth are first prepared by lightly shaping and buffing the surface to give room for the thickening of the veneer. An impression of the teeth is then taken, and you will have to work with the dentist to select a color.
On the second appointment, the teeth will be cleaned using a special liquid to establish a durable bond. Bonding cement will now be placed between the tooth and veneer, and the bond is set and hardened using a special light beam.
You will get care instructions once you complete your treatment. Regular flossing, brushing and visiting the dentist regularly will help prolong the life of your new veneers.
Teeth whitening or bleaching refers to a simple and non-invasive treatment used by dental professionals to improve the color of natural tooth enamel and give you a brighter smile.
Because getting whiter teeth is now an important goal of most people, there are now various teeth whitening solutions. The most popular method is the use of ‘home teeth whitening kit.’
Since only natural tooth enamel can be whitened, it’s important to revisit replacement of any old crowns, fillings, etc. When bleaching is complete, replacement of any restoration will be done so they will blend well with the newly bleached teeth.
Teeth whitening solutions do not give permanent results. You may need to do a touch-up once in a few years, and more frequently if you smoke, drink wine, tea, or coffee.
Reasons for teeth whitening:
What does teeth whitening involve?
This particular type of teeth whitening can be done in two visits. During the first appointment, your teeth impressions will be made to create custom, clear, plastic, trays.
Your second appointment is when you will try on the trays to get the best fit. You will have to wear the trays with the special whitening solution either overnight for a few weeks or twice daily for 30 minutes depending on the degree of whiteness you want. You may experience some tooth sensitivity after the whitening procedure, but it will improve when you stop bleaching.
You will be given care instructions for your teeth and trays. You will also be advised to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a healthy, beautiful and white smile.
