Dec 12, 2024 | Blog, Dental Information, Dental Topics 3
For many years, dentists removed cavities and filled them with metal amalgams. Traditional metal fillings are less expensive and were often the first choice for fixing damaged teeth. Recently, composite resin fillings have become the top method for restoring smiles. Ultimately, the decision rests with the patient; however, many dentists have moved to placing only composite fillings.
Silver fillings actually weaken the natural tooth structure, although they do repair the decayed area. As well, metal fillings contain mercury, which can become toxic in large doses. Metal fillings can expand, contract, or leak from wear over time. In many cases, they also darken with age.
Tinted to match natural teeth, composite resin fillings preserve your bright, white image. With composite resin fillings, less tooth area needs to be removed, which keeps as much of your original tooth in tact as possible. Because tooth-colored fillings actually bond to the tooth, you don’t have to worry about these restorations changing shape or cracking.
To place a composite restoration, your dentist will clean out the decay and prepare the tooth. Then, the doctor will fill the area with the composite material. With a special curing light, your dentist hardens the filling and polishes the tooth.
When you have metal fillings, check with your dentist and request an evaluation of their stability. Some people choose to replace amalgam fillings because of the way they look. If your old fillings develop additional decay or fracture, you will need to have the restorations repaired in order to restore the tooth.
Schedule a dental cleaning appointment today at our Bingham Farms dentists office.
Nov 28, 2024 | Blog, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Topics 3
An unattractive smile can make you feel uncomfortable and lower your self-esteem. Being embarrassed about the appearance of your mouth can make social and professional situations difficult. This calls for a smile makeover. Cosmetic dentists can help you transform your look and give you back the confidence you’ve lost due to a lackluster smile. A smile makeover offers many ways to help you achieve your goals.
Whitening teeth
Aging combined with certain habits can take a toll on your teeth, leaving them dingy and yellow. Drinking coffee or red wine and maintaining habits like smoking all can be culprits of an embarrassing smile. Professional teeth whitening methods provide a fast and effective way to turn your smile around.
Eliminating gaps
Although some celebrities embrace gaps in their smiles, many people consider them a reason to hide their teeth. Traditional braces, clear aligners, and veneers are each effective ways to get rid of gaps that you don’t like.
Repairing decay
Not only is tooth decay unattractive, it can be painful and negatively impact your overall health. Treatment may involve fillings, crowns, root canal therapy, or even tooth extraction. If removal of the tooth is necessary, dental implants are a popular restoration choice.
Repairing chips and cavities
Chips in your teeth may be easily repaired using techniques like contouring or bonding. Cavities can also be attractively filled using white composite material that is not noticeable in your smile, yet effectively takes care of cavities.
Ready to transform your smile? Schedule your appointment today at our Bingham Farms dental office.
Nov 21, 2024 | Blog, Dental Information, Dental Topics 3
Depending on the degree of gum disease you have been diagnosed with, treatment can vary extensively. It can range from having a regular teeth cleaning and paying more attention to dental hygiene, to complex and often painful surgery. If you’ve been told you have a problem with your gums, seek treatment immediately.
Your dentist will perform a gum exam to decide the best treatment plan. This includes measuring the gum pockets around your teeth, noting inflammation, and checking gum recession. If gum pockets are extensive, it may mean you have bone loss. In that case, your dentist might refer you to a gum specialist called a periodontist.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. All that may be required is a thorough professional cleaning, better oral hygiene, consistent checkups, and allowing time for gums to heal. If gum problems have advanced, a deeper professional cleaning called scaling and root planning may be needed. Medications might be prescribed to treat infection. If the areas don’t respond to these treatments, gum surgery can be performed to remove diseased tissue, save the remaining gums and bone, and allow a better environment for good future oral health.
Receding gums sometimes are not severe enough for any treatment, but cosmetic concerns may warrant a gum graft procedure. It involves surgically removing tissue from another area of the mouth and grafting it onto the receded area. Another issue might be a gum abscess, which requires deep cleaning to remove diseased tissue and any pus that is present. Antibiotics will likely be needed for the infection. Once the abscess is cleared, further treatment may be needed to avoid a recurrence.
As you can see, there are a variety of possible treatments depending upon the severity of your gum problems. Of course the best solution is to avoid gum issues in the first place by maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
Are dental issues holding you back? Take control of your oral health by booking an appointment with our experienced team at our Bingham Farms dental office.
Nov 14, 2024 | Blog, Dental Information, Dental Topics 3
When your tooth pulp that is located in the center of each of your teeth becomes damaged or infected, the best way to save the tooth is to have root canal therapy. This safe and effective treatment is not as painful as its reputation, and should not be avoided. Watching for signs that your tooth pulp has been compromised is an important step in saving your tooth, so that treatment may be performed before your condition becomes too advanced.
There are not always signs associated with a tooth that requires root canal therapy. Sometimes only examination, X-rays, and other tests will reveal problems. This is one reason regular dental visits are important. In other cases, symptoms are present to indicate pulp damage. Some typical signs include:
- Pain that is often related to inflamed tooth pulp, which can be caused by deep decay, chipped or cracked teeth, repeated dental procedures, faulty crowns, infection, tooth grinding, or periodontitis. Inflammation increases pressure inside the pulp cavity and triggers the tooth’s nerves. The pain may be in the tooth itself, or it can be referred to other areas in your mouth. Pain when eating or sensitivity to hot or cold is also common.
- Gum swelling near the damaged tooth
- Facial swelling
- Tooth loosening
- Pus around the damaged tooth
- Tooth discoloration, which usually occurs over a longer period of time. Discoloration can take weeks, months, or years to appear. This is another reason for regular dental checkups.
If you experience any of the symptoms above, or if your dentist identifies problems upon examination, it’s time to consider root canal therapy. Saving your natural tooth is almost always better than having to replace a lost tooth. Root canal therapy can help you keep your smile intact, as well as its function. Your natural sensations of a real tooth remain, as well as normal biting abilities. Don’t shy away from treatment; take care of tooth pulp problems when they arise.
Take the first step towards a confident smile. Contact our Bingham Farms dental office to schedule your consultation!
Nov 7, 2024 | Blog, Dental Topics 4, Implant Dentistry
The Benefits of Dental Implants: Restoring Oral Health and Confidence
The Importance of Dental Health
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to overall health. Poor dental health can lead to a variety of health problems, including gum disease, tooth decay, and even heart disease. It’s important to take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly, visiting your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings, and addressing any dental issues promptly.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants provide numerous benefits beyond just restoring missing teeth. One major benefit is improved confidence in your smile and appearance.
Because they look and feel like natural teeth, dental implants can restore confidence in those who may have felt self-conscious about their smile or speech due to missing teeth. In addition to enhanced appearance, dental implants also provide greater functionality compared to other tooth replacement options such as dentures or bridges.
They allow for better chewing ability without discomfort or slipping associated with other methods. Another significant benefit is long-term durability; when cared for properly, dental implants can last a lifetime unlike other options that may need frequent replacement.
Furthermore, dental implants promote better oral health by preventing bone loss and gum recession that can occur with missing teeth. They also make it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene by not requiring special cleaning methods or adhesives.
Overall, dental implants provide a permanent, cost-effective solution for enhancing oral health and confidence. In the following sections, we will explore each of these benefits in more detail.
Improved Appearance
Dental implants are a highly effective solution for restoring missing, damaged or decayed teeth. They are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, providing a very natural-looking appearance that is sure to restore confidence in your smile and overall appearance. In fact, dental implants are virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth, making them a perfect solution for anyone who wants to improve the appearance of their smile.
Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth
The materials used in dental implants are carefully chosen to ensure they look and feel just like natural teeth. The implant itself is made of titanium, which is biocompatible and can integrate with the jawbone over time for added stability. The crown (the visible part of the implant) is typically made of porcelain or ceramic material that closely resembles the color, texture and translucency of your natural teeth.
Because dental implants are custom-designed to match your existing teeth, they will blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile. This creates a more cohesive look that will make you feel confident when you smile or talk to others.
Restores confidence in smile and appearance
The impact of a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth can go beyond just affecting oral health. It can also have an effect on emotional well-being. People who have lost one or more teeth may struggle with feeling self-conscious about their appearance when talking, smiling or eating in public.
Dental implants provide an excellent way to restore confidence by providing a natural-looking solution that seamlessly blends with surrounding teeth and restores full functionality while improving aesthetics. If you’re looking for ways to improve your overall oral health while regaining confidence in your smile’s appearance, consider consulting with an experienced dentist about whether dental implants may be right for you.
Enhanced Functionality
Improved Chewing and Speaking Ability
Dental implants are designed to function like natural teeth, allowing patients to chew and speak with ease. With dentures, there can be discomfort or soreness associated with eating certain foods, which can lead to a limited diet. Dental implants help alleviate this issue by providing a strong foundation for chewing and biting into food without any discomfort.
Additionally, dentures can slip around in the mouth while speaking or eating, leading to issues with communication and confidence. With dental implants, there is no slipping or movement of the tooth replacement, allowing patients to feel more comfortable and secure while speaking or eating.
No More Discomfort or Slipping Associated with Dentures
One of the main issues with traditional dentures is that they can cause discomfort due to pressure on the gums and bone tissue underneath. This pressure can also lead to bone loss over time. Dental implants provide an alternative solution that eliminates these issues.
The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone where it fuses with the bone tissue over time, creating a strong foundation for a tooth replacement that doesn’t put pressure on gums or cause pain. Additionally, because dental implants are anchored securely in place within the jawbone, there is no slipping or movement associated with wearing them compared to traditional dentures.
Overall, dental implants provide a permanent solution for those looking for enhanced functionality when it comes to chewing and speaking ability without any discomfort. The elimination of slipping and movement also leads to improved confidence levels while wearing them compared to traditional dentures.
Long-Term Durability
Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth, as they integrate with the jawbone and create a stable foundation for the artificial tooth. Unlike other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, dental implants do not require any special care or maintenance once they have been properly placed. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Dental Implants are a Permanent Solution
Dental implants are made from high-quality materials that promote osseointegration, which is the process of bone fusing with the implant. This creates a stable foundation for the artificial tooth and helps prevent bone loss in the jawbone. As long as the implant is not damaged or impacted by gum disease or trauma, it will remain in place and function like a natural tooth.
Proper Care Can Last A Lifetime
Although dental implants do not require any special care or maintenance, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits to ensure their longevity. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist for routine check-ups will help to keep your gums healthy and prevent any damage to your implant. It is also important to avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or using your teeth as tools to prevent any damage to your implant.
In addition to promoting good oral hygiene habits, proper care also includes avoiding habits that can contribute to gum disease such as smoking or using tobacco products. Patients who smoke have an increased risk of implant failure due to reduced blood flow and poor healing abilities.
Overall, dental implants are a highly durable tooth replacement option that can last a lifetime with proper care and regular check-ups with your dentist. By taking these simple steps you can ensure that you get the most out of your investment in better oral health!
Improved Oral Health
Dental implants are not only a cosmetic solution but also a functional one. They can improve your oral health in many ways. Unlike dentures, which can cause bone loss and gum recession, dental implants prevent these issues from occurring.
Dental Implants Prevent Bone Loss and Gum Recession
When you lose a tooth, the bone that once supported it begins to deteriorate due to lack of use. Over time this can lead to teeth becoming loose or even falling out. Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone and preventing any further bone loss or gum recession from occurring.
Easier to Maintain Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. With dental implants, it’s easier to maintain good oral hygiene than with other tooth replacement options such as dentures or bridges.
You can brush and floss your dental implants just like you would with natural teeth; there is no need for any special cleaning techniques or products. Furthermore, because dental implants are permanent fixtures in your mouth, there’s no need to remove them for cleaning overnight like with dentures which need thorough cleaning before being replaced inside the mouth every morning.
Dental Implants not only restore your smile but also have long-lasting health benefits that improve your overall quality of life. They preserve the strength of the jawbone while making good oral hygiene much more accessible!
Cost-Effective Solution
Dental implants can be a cost-effective solution for those seeking a long-term tooth replacement option. While the initial costs of implant procedures may be higher than other options, such as dentures or bridges, they offer long-term savings and benefits that outweigh their initial cost.
Long-term Savings Compared to Other Tooth Replacement Options
The longevity of dental implants is what sets them apart from other tooth replacement options. Implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care, unlike bridges or dentures that may need to be replaced every few years. The ongoing costs associated with these other options can add up over time and end up costing more than the initial investment in dental implants.
Furthermore, dental implants do not require any additional maintenance beyond regular brushing and flossing like natural teeth. Whereas, bridges or dentures require special cleaning solutions or adhesives for upkeep.
Insurance Coverage for Dental Implant Procedures
Many dental insurance plans cover all or part of the costs associated with implant procedures. This coverage typically applies when the implant is deemed medically necessary due to trauma, disease, or injury rather than purely cosmetic reasons.
Check with your insurance provider about their specific coverage policies for dental implants. If you do not have dental insurance that covers implant procedures, there are financing options available through many providers that can make it easier to afford the upfront cost of treatment.
While dental implants may have a higher initial investment compared to other tooth replacement options but they provide long-term savings and benefits by being durable which makes them the preferred option in most cases. They also offer insurance coverage for medically necessary treatments which provides peace of mind regarding payment and affordability.
Consider Dental Implant Procedures
Patients who are unhappy with their current tooth replacement option should consider dental implant procedures. Not only do dental implants offer numerous benefits for improved oral health, but they also provide a long-term cost-effective solution. The cost of the procedure may seem high up front, but the long-term savings will outweigh the initial investment.
Improved Health and Functionality
The decision to undergo a dental implant procedure can be life-changing. Patients no longer have to suffer from discomfort or embarrassment associated with dentures or bridges.
A confident smile can lead to increased self-esteem and overall happiness. Furthermore, restored functionality allows patients to enjoy their favorite foods without worrying about slippage or discomfort.
Dental implant procedures offer numerous benefits for improving oral health, functionality, and appearance while providing a permanent solution for tooth replacement. It is important for patients who are considering this procedure to weigh the costs versus benefits and make an informed decision with their dentist’s guidance in order to attain optimal results.
Take the first step towards optimal oral hygiene. Reserve your dental appointment at our Bingham Farms dental office now and experience personalized care.
