A Crown Fixes Everything
Or does it? Often, dental crowns are cemented over a tooth as a form of dental restoration. They encase the whole visible tooth; so in essence, the crown becomes the tooth’s new outer surface. Some reasons a dental crown may be recommended for dental restoration is to restore a tooth to its original form, strengthen a tooth, or improve the appearance of the tooth. These tend to last anywhere from 5-15 years, usually in the $500-900 price range per crown, but these are generally covered by insurance. Most often, there are not complications from crowns, but sometimes, problems could develop. Some issues that may arise include discomfort and sensitivity, chipped crown, loose crown, a crown falling off, allergic reaction, or a dark line on a crowned tooth next to the gum line.
Dental crowns are not recommended to only be used to improve the appearance of the tooth if there is another alternative. This is because the procedure requires the dentist to grind a portion of a tooth away. If there is another way to improve the tooth’s appearance that can produce equal results, then it is best to go with one of those alternatives. Some procedures that can help with tooth appearance are porcelain veneers, dental bonding, or teeth whitening. If the crown also restores a tooth’s original shape or strengthens the tooth, then a dental crown is a good choice.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
The Benefits of Cosmetic Gum Surgery
Often times, people encounter issues with their gums. Whether it is the appearance of very long teeth, a gummy smile, or missing or receding gum lines, many people with these issues opt to have cosmetic gum surgery. Gum surgering involves replacing gume tissue that is missing or receding or may also be required for people that have teeth that appear small but have dominant gums at the same time. For missing or receding gums, the gum tissue needs to be brought down. For gums that are too visible, cosmetic gum surgery is done by raising the gum tissue or doing a gum lift, so some of the gums are being removed or reshaped.
One issue to address when considering surgery is the object of cost. Depending on the amount of grafting required during the procedure, the cost of cosmetic gum surgery can vary greatly. The costs tend to range from $600 to $3,000. Many insurance companies will cover at least a portion of the cost, particularly if the procedure is preventative.
With little pain and a quick recovery time, it is worth it to have the surgery done if you are one of those people with gum issues. An improved change in appearance of your smile will be noticeable right away. Cosmetic gum surgery can improve the health of your gums and teeth as well as reducing sensitivity and preventing decay or loss. Make sure you carefully select your cosmetic surgeon, not simply based on price. It is your mouth and your smile, so find a surgeon that meets all your needs in making this surgery a successful one.
One issue to address when considering surgery is the object of cost. Depending on the amount of grafting required during the procedure, the cost of cosmetic gum surgery can vary greatly. The costs tend to range from $600 to $3,000. Many insurance companies will cover at least a portion of the cost, particularly if the procedure is preventative.
With little pain and a quick recovery time, it is worth it to have the surgery done if you are one of those people with gum issues. An improved change in appearance of your smile will be noticeable right away. Cosmetic gum surgery can improve the health of your gums and teeth as well as reducing sensitivity and preventing decay or loss. Make sure you carefully select your cosmetic surgeon, not simply based on price. It is your mouth and your smile, so find a surgeon that meets all your needs in making this surgery a successful one.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Use Them or Lose Them
Whether we like it or not, there comes a point when you have to find out whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed, or if you are one of the lucky ones, are able to let them grow in as normal without removal. More often than not, wisdom teeth tend to be misaligned or impacted and require removal. Sometimes, they can be useful, but in most cases, wisdom teeth extraction is necessary. This is when the wisdom teeth are surgically removed from the mouth, usually as a person approaches their late teens or early twenties. Dentists often suggest wisdom teeth extraction before they have grown in, simply to avoid problems that can develop. Extracting the wisdom teeth while the patient is young is often easier since the wisdom teeth roots are not completely developed and the teeth are far less dense.
It is always better to be safe than sorry; people often think they can put off the surgery if the teeth are not bothering them. The problem with putting off the wisdom teeth extraction surgery is that the risk of serious complications rises as you get older, so it is best to have them removed at a young age. Sure, it may not be the most pleasant procedure, but take your dentist’s advice; don’t wait until it is too late. The slight pain is worth not having to deal with a more complex surgical procedure down the road if you do decide to keep the teeth. My vote: lose them! They do more harm than good and that is enough of an answer for me!
Whether we like it or not, there comes a point when you have to find out whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed, or if you are one of the lucky ones, are able to let them grow in as normal without removal. More often than not, wisdom teeth tend to be misaligned or impacted and require removal. Sometimes, they can be useful, but in most cases, wisdom teeth extraction is necessary. This is when the wisdom teeth are surgically removed from the mouth, usually as a person approaches their late teens or early twenties. Dentists often suggest wisdom teeth extraction before they have grown in, simply to avoid problems that can develop. Extracting the wisdom teeth while the patient is young is often easier since the wisdom teeth roots are not completely developed and the teeth are far less dense.
It is always better to be safe than sorry; people often think they can put off the surgery if the teeth are not bothering them. The problem with putting off the wisdom teeth extraction surgery is that the risk of serious complications rises as you get older, so it is best to have them removed at a young age. Sure, it may not be the most pleasant procedure, but take your dentist’s advice; don’t wait until it is too late. The slight pain is worth not having to deal with a more complex surgical procedure down the road if you do decide to keep the teeth. My vote: lose them! They do more harm than good and that is enough of an answer for me!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Dental Fillings
“Looks like you are going to need a filling.” Nobody likes hearing these words uttered out of the mouth of their dentist. Unfortunately, getting a dental filling is a quick, painless and common procedure that most people endure at some point in their lifetime. Your dentist will identify the number of tooth surfaces that are affected by some sort of decay or damage, and will then prepare your tooth for restoration. A dental filling is necessary when there is a tooth fracture, tooth decay or other damaged surfaces of the teeth. This will restore the tooth and prevent further complications.
Most people opt to receive a dental filling known as a composite resin filling. These were created as an alternative to the metal dental fillings, as these are tooth colored and look far more natural. They are also strong and durable and most dental insurance plans cover them. Amalgam fillings, on the other hand, have been controversial due to the fact that they contain mercury, although the FDA says they are not dangerous by any means. Although amalgam fillings are cheaper, you pay a little more to have the composite resin filling since it has a more natural and attractive look. My suggestion: go with the composite resin filling. You will not even remember that you needed a dental filling in the first place once the procedure is finished as your tooth will be back to its original, cavity-free, undamaged state.
Most people opt to receive a dental filling known as a composite resin filling. These were created as an alternative to the metal dental fillings, as these are tooth colored and look far more natural. They are also strong and durable and most dental insurance plans cover them. Amalgam fillings, on the other hand, have been controversial due to the fact that they contain mercury, although the FDA says they are not dangerous by any means. Although amalgam fillings are cheaper, you pay a little more to have the composite resin filling since it has a more natural and attractive look. My suggestion: go with the composite resin filling. You will not even remember that you needed a dental filling in the first place once the procedure is finished as your tooth will be back to its original, cavity-free, undamaged state.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Are Amalgam Fillings Dangerous
Controversy has erupted over the topic that amalgam fillings may be hazardous to one’s health. This could not be further from the fact. If you are worried that the little silver fillings in the back of your mouth may poison you because of the use of mercury, then you can take a deep breath, simply because they are harmless.
Research has indeed shown that there is no link between amalgam restoration and health problems. In fact, the mercury in amalgam is combined with other metals that make it safe and stable for filling teeth. According to the FDA, “While elemental mercury has been associated with adverse health effects at high exposures, the levels released by dental amalgam fillings are not high enough to cause harm in patients.” Mercury in fillings is not even as close to as dangerous as mercury in fish. Even children and adults with multiple amalgam fillings are considered safe.
Besides, the use of amalgam fillings is on the decline, as most dentists now use a clear resin filling that blend in with the teeth so they are not apparent. Though only used in 30 percent of new fillings today, amalgam is much cheaper and longer lasting. With the advancement of technology, patients do have other options to repairing and filling cavities. Composite fillings can be used as an alternative, although they do possess problems as well. The bottom line is that there is no evidence that amalgam causes any dangerous health effects, therefore no need to be concerned.
Research has indeed shown that there is no link between amalgam restoration and health problems. In fact, the mercury in amalgam is combined with other metals that make it safe and stable for filling teeth. According to the FDA, “While elemental mercury has been associated with adverse health effects at high exposures, the levels released by dental amalgam fillings are not high enough to cause harm in patients.” Mercury in fillings is not even as close to as dangerous as mercury in fish. Even children and adults with multiple amalgam fillings are considered safe.
Besides, the use of amalgam fillings is on the decline, as most dentists now use a clear resin filling that blend in with the teeth so they are not apparent. Though only used in 30 percent of new fillings today, amalgam is much cheaper and longer lasting. With the advancement of technology, patients do have other options to repairing and filling cavities. Composite fillings can be used as an alternative, although they do possess problems as well. The bottom line is that there is no evidence that amalgam causes any dangerous health effects, therefore no need to be concerned.
The Latest and Greatest of Dental Veneers
Ever wonder how some people manage to maintain perfectly straight, white teeth? One of the latest trends in the world of dentistry is the use of porcelain veneers, also called dental veneers.
Dental Veeners are beneficial for reasons other than cosmetic purposes; they can also repair cracked, chipped, discolored, broken or crooked teeth. Lumineers are probably the type you have heard about the most; this is simply just a brand of veneer, just as Empress and Procera are dental veneer brands.
The most enticing part about dental veneers is that you do not have to have your teeth cut in order to have the perfect teeth you have always longed for. The process is somewhat simple; a dentist will take an impression and send it to a lab. When the veneers are finished, you have custom-made replicas of the patient’s teeth that are then bonded into place.
The best part is that you end up with teeth that appear to have a very life-like tooth appearance and, at the same time, are resistant to staining. The downside to opting for dental veneers: the cost. Porcelain veneers usually cost anywhere from $700 to $2000 per tooth. Look at it this way; you get what you pay for. Porcelain veneers last longer than other treatments and require less maintenance. Not to mention, they are the most visually, cosmetically appealing option to getting that smile you always wanted.
Dental Veeners are beneficial for reasons other than cosmetic purposes; they can also repair cracked, chipped, discolored, broken or crooked teeth. Lumineers are probably the type you have heard about the most; this is simply just a brand of veneer, just as Empress and Procera are dental veneer brands.
The most enticing part about dental veneers is that you do not have to have your teeth cut in order to have the perfect teeth you have always longed for. The process is somewhat simple; a dentist will take an impression and send it to a lab. When the veneers are finished, you have custom-made replicas of the patient’s teeth that are then bonded into place.
The best part is that you end up with teeth that appear to have a very life-like tooth appearance and, at the same time, are resistant to staining. The downside to opting for dental veneers: the cost. Porcelain veneers usually cost anywhere from $700 to $2000 per tooth. Look at it this way; you get what you pay for. Porcelain veneers last longer than other treatments and require less maintenance. Not to mention, they are the most visually, cosmetically appealing option to getting that smile you always wanted.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Teeth Bleeching
Yes, we all notice those people with the enduring smiles, the ones that seem to capture the attention of any passerby. What makes those smiles so capturing? You guessed it, those glistening, sparkling teeth; you know, the ones that look like they came straight out of a teeth bleaching advertisement. Our teeth naturally lose their luster and appeal with age, so most people resort to something we have all heard of: teeth bleaching. What can we do to get them back to their youthful stage? Is there a safe way? The quickest (and cheapest) way to revert those discolored teeth back to their buoyant, frosted state is by teeth bleaching.
Teeth Whitening (the do-it-yourself method), is the not so shockingly way to whiten teeth. For superficial stains, these can be the quickest, easiest method. Toothpastes, strips, or kits can be purchased over the counter for someone on a low or moderate budget. For deeper stains, a dentist may be more of a help to you. If you have dental veneers, bonding, fillings, crowns or bridges, teeth bleaching will not lighten these manufactured teeth. Further investigation to attain that clean white smile must be done; new dental work such as veneers or bonding may be in order.
Once you have the desired whiteness you always dreamt of, you need to go into preventative mode. Since tooth enamel wears away as we age, there is the risk of over-whitening. Maintain your new smile by avoiding foods, drinks and health hazardous habits, such as blueberries, red wine, coffee and smoking. One rule of thumb is that anything that can stain a white t-shirt can and will stain your teeth. Keep that newfound smile by brushing twice a day, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly. I can’t preach it enough, but once you have that sparkling smile, you’re not going to want to lose it!
Teeth Whitening (the do-it-yourself method), is the not so shockingly way to whiten teeth. For superficial stains, these can be the quickest, easiest method. Toothpastes, strips, or kits can be purchased over the counter for someone on a low or moderate budget. For deeper stains, a dentist may be more of a help to you. If you have dental veneers, bonding, fillings, crowns or bridges, teeth bleaching will not lighten these manufactured teeth. Further investigation to attain that clean white smile must be done; new dental work such as veneers or bonding may be in order.
Once you have the desired whiteness you always dreamt of, you need to go into preventative mode. Since tooth enamel wears away as we age, there is the risk of over-whitening. Maintain your new smile by avoiding foods, drinks and health hazardous habits, such as blueberries, red wine, coffee and smoking. One rule of thumb is that anything that can stain a white t-shirt can and will stain your teeth. Keep that newfound smile by brushing twice a day, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly. I can’t preach it enough, but once you have that sparkling smile, you’re not going to want to lose it!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Dental Procedures
In the recent years, dental procedures have become more common than ever. With so many newer types of dental treatments getting introduced every day, dentistry is no more a mere oral infection and medicine game. Modern dental procedures have the ability to whiten teeth, straighten smile, even up gum lines and so much more. So, as you can see, in more ways than one, dental procedures today have come several steps ahead of simple preventive dental treatments.
Could you ever imagine how your quality of smile could be changed my making your teeth pearly white with a bleaching gel? Yes, the shade of your teeth can be made up to ten times whiter, stripping the discoloration layer off your teeth and for that, all the credit goes to the cosmetic dentists. So, if all these days you have been wondering how do, all the movie stars manage to flash such pearly smiles, you now know where it all comes from! You will also get to know a little more about the various other dental procedures. So, read on...
Many people suffer from different jaw disorders and facial abnormalities. Orthodontic dental procedures are applied in these cases. Most commonly braces are used to correct such abnormalities and these can include metal or plastic brackets, lingual brackets or bands. Another procedure is done using bridges. This is to replace missing tooth/teeth. Dentures can also be used in fixing the problem of missing teeth.
These days, traditional dentures are being replaced by the more advanced dental implants which can restore mouths with non restorable teeth. For teeth that are suffering from decay, dentists have for them filling procedures with dental amalgams and composite resins. People who are diagnosed with root pulp infections; they are treated with the modern endodontic procedures. Dental sealing is also a quite popular procedure where sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to protect them from decay.
Could you ever imagine how your quality of smile could be changed my making your teeth pearly white with a bleaching gel? Yes, the shade of your teeth can be made up to ten times whiter, stripping the discoloration layer off your teeth and for that, all the credit goes to the cosmetic dentists. So, if all these days you have been wondering how do, all the movie stars manage to flash such pearly smiles, you now know where it all comes from! You will also get to know a little more about the various other dental procedures. So, read on...
Many people suffer from different jaw disorders and facial abnormalities. Orthodontic dental procedures are applied in these cases. Most commonly braces are used to correct such abnormalities and these can include metal or plastic brackets, lingual brackets or bands. Another procedure is done using bridges. This is to replace missing tooth/teeth. Dentures can also be used in fixing the problem of missing teeth.
These days, traditional dentures are being replaced by the more advanced dental implants which can restore mouths with non restorable teeth. For teeth that are suffering from decay, dentists have for them filling procedures with dental amalgams and composite resins. People who are diagnosed with root pulp infections; they are treated with the modern endodontic procedures. Dental sealing is also a quite popular procedure where sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to protect them from decay.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Dental Education
The chronicle of dental education has always experienced change as well as continuity. With the advancement of science and technology in the field of Dentistry, the system of education in the dental sphere has evolved more sophisticated not only in substance but also in method. In the second half of the last century, dental education meant apprenticeship training which was highly self-taught. Today the whole scenario of dental education has been replaced by a formal instruction method of lengthy periods. In this 21st century, the university based schools of dental education are thriving big time and the postgraduate dental degrees, both in the general and the specialized fields, have become more widespread.
In the United States, there are 57 accredited dental schools. As a result, getting through the selection process is quite competitive. What counts the most in the multi faceted admission procedure are the GPA and the DAT scores which sieve out the most extraordinary students off the lot. If you have made up your mind to go for the dental studies, it would be worthwhile to consider preparing right from the junior years of high school. For a first step, enroll for classes offering pre-dentistry coaching. The next step would be investigating the various dentistry programs available in the different colleges and universities and their eligibility requirements.
Taking a DAT prep-course would help in more ways than one. Taking online tests and practicing from the sample test papers would groom you well and acquaint you with the examination format. There are scores of pre-dental websites with discussion groups and message boards. Participating in them will give you in-depth information. In dental education both clinical experience as well as coursework plays a major role. While the curricula may differ from one program to the other, the core courses remain the same almost. Every course introduces education on dental anatomy, occlusion, dental materials, oral pathology and fixed Prosthodontics.
In the United States, there are 57 accredited dental schools. As a result, getting through the selection process is quite competitive. What counts the most in the multi faceted admission procedure are the GPA and the DAT scores which sieve out the most extraordinary students off the lot. If you have made up your mind to go for the dental studies, it would be worthwhile to consider preparing right from the junior years of high school. For a first step, enroll for classes offering pre-dentistry coaching. The next step would be investigating the various dentistry programs available in the different colleges and universities and their eligibility requirements.
Taking a DAT prep-course would help in more ways than one. Taking online tests and practicing from the sample test papers would groom you well and acquaint you with the examination format. There are scores of pre-dental websites with discussion groups and message boards. Participating in them will give you in-depth information. In dental education both clinical experience as well as coursework plays a major role. While the curricula may differ from one program to the other, the core courses remain the same almost. Every course introduces education on dental anatomy, occlusion, dental materials, oral pathology and fixed Prosthodontics.
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