What is bonding?
Bonding uses a composite resin, or tooth colored filling material to restore structure, to change the size or shape of a tooth, or to repair minor chips or cracks. However, bonding is not as long lasting as porcelain restorations.
| |
|
|
|
What are the signs/symptoms of TMJ?
Fractures, teeth wear, sensitivity to cold or heat, mobile teeth, headaches, and muscle tension can all be indicative of TMJ. These can happen from clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism). Our practice can aid in relieving the damages of TMJ with a custom dental appliance called an occlusal split.
| |
|
|
|
Does whitening damage my enamel?
No. To our knowledge through research and extensive course training, nothing has been documented and microscopic research has shown no changes in tooth structure when using a 10% solution of material as directed.
| |
|
|
|
Does every tooth that needs a crown also need a root canal?
No. Only teeth that have very deep decay or damaged tooth structure that leads to the nerve- or pulp- of the tooth. Most teeth can be prepped for a crown without the need for a root canal. However, all teeth that have a root canal will need a crown, due to the tooth being an unstable structure, becoming brittle after a root canal procedure.
| |
|
|
|
Do dental x-rays expose me to large amounts of radiation?
No. Traditional x-rays are taken with high speed film which reduces exposure time and new digital technology reduces that amount by 80%! The radiation beam is contained by collimation (directing the beam through a lead-lined column) and is limited to a space of about 3 inches. Dental x-ray units are checked for accuracy and safety every 2 years as mandated by Federal Law.
| |
|
|
|
What are implants?
Implants are an artificial tooth root replacement system made from titanium and can be fused to bone. Once they are placed inside the jawbone, they bond naturally to the bone and are actually a stronger structure than before. They are fixed and remain in place unless removed by a dentist. So you can smile, laugh, speak, and eat with absolute confidence!
| |
|
|
|
What type of electric toothbrush is better?
The Sonicare is one we have been recommending for many years. It has been proven to go 1 mm further beneath the gums than any other toothbrush on the market. This along with the sonic massaging action of the brush gets rid of more plaque, bacteria, and stain. With this in mind, your gums are firmer, less tender, less bleeding, and overall much healthier.
| |
|
|
|
How do I know if I’m keeping my teeth clean?
At our office, we have a dental fitness exam which involves a quantative measurement of indexes taking the percentages of plaque, pocket dept, and bleeding sites around each tooth. In this way you can be re-evaluated at a future date to see how you are improving in your home care.
| |
|
|
|
What is the best thing I can do for tooth sensitivity and dry mouth?
We recommend MI Paste nightly at bedtime. Just smear a small amount with your finger over the tooth surfaces. It not only helps with tooth sensitivity due to receding gums but also can be used for sensitivity from teeth whitening. Dry mouth caused by medication or radiation treatment can also be relieved with MI Paste. MI Paste has many other benefits such as children and adults with higher caries ricks or demineralization of enamel due to orthodontic treatment.
| |
|
|
|
