Dental procedures

BLEACHING

Bleaching is a safe, effective way to lighten the color of teeth. A mold of the teeth are taken to fabricate bleaching trays which custom fit the patient's mouth. The patient wears these trays usually for 30-45 minutes or overnight depending on the product strength selected. Most treatment takes two weeks, however, more time may be needed in severely stained or discolored teeth.

X-RAYS ( RADIOGRAPHS)

X-rays are an important tool that provides the dentist the ability to examine the roots, jaws, and facial bones of the patient. X-rays aid the dentist in determining the degree of decay, periodontal disease, abscesses or any pathology, i.e. cysts or tumors, that may not show clinically through a visual examination alone. X-rays are taken based on the individual dentist's assessment of the patient. Most new patients have a full set of x-rays taken and check-up x-rays are taken as needed.

Types of X-rays:

Bitewing - determine the presence of decay in between teeth. Periapical - shows root structures, cysts, bone level or other pathology.

Panoramic - a broad view of entire structure of mouth on one film. It is used to determine if pathology is present, position of wisdom teeth, etc. It is not used to diagnose cavities.

By using new, state-of-the-art technology, and by using new fast film, radiation exposure has been greatly decreased.

TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDER - TMD

This a condition whereby jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and the nerves associated with this region cause pain. TMD most often affects women twice as much as men. The causes include, overuse of jaw muscles and trauma. The symptoms can include jaw pain, especially in morning, earache - with no infection-, jaw clicking when opening jaw, difficulty in opening mouth, stiff or locked jaw. The treatment would include resting of jaw, anti-inflammatory drugs (non-aspirin), stress management, eating soft foods, wearing a splint or mouthguard and avoiding chewing gum.

TEETH CLEANING(PROPHYLAXIS)

Prophylaxis is a procedure where a dentist or dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from the teeth. This will make the gums and teeth healthier. It is not uncommon for patients to note that teeth appear slightly more sensitive after a dental cleaning. The reason for this is that plaque and tartar coat the tooth surface and shield them from substances in the mouth. Once they are removed a transient sensitivity may occur but soon leaves. It is important for one to brush and floss after every meal to prevent buildup of plaque and tartar.

SILVER (AMALGAM) FILLING

These are fillings which contain amalgam. Amalgam is formed from particles that contain silver, copper, tin and mixed with mercury. It is packed into the cavity before it hardens into a strong alloy. At first the color is a silver color but after oxidation occurs it turns black.

SEALANTS

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Most tooth decay in children and adolescents occur on the chewing surfaces of these back teeth or molars. This is because molars have irregular surfaces with pits and grooves which tend to trap food and bacterial debris. Sealants flow into and coat these pits and grooves so that bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay. The teeth most likely to benefit from sealant applications are the first and second molars just after they have erupted and before decay has had a chance to occur. Generally, the first molars erupt at six years old and second molars at about twelve years old.

ROOT CANAL TREATMENT

A root canal is needed when the pulp or nerve of a tooth gets affected by decay or trauma. The blood flow within the tooth rushes to the site of inflammation in order to aid the tooth, but what occurs as a result is a pressure on the nerve endings which generates the pain response. Pain usually occurs at night or when lying down, can be triggered by hot or cold and can be occasional or continuous. What occurs is a slow progression whereby decay may invade the pulp space and travel through the canal and settle at the end of the root. What occurs is an abscess or swelling at this site. Other causes of nerve pain can be fractures of teeth, large fillings that are not tolerated by the pulp or constant trauma to the tooth. Occasionally, it is difficult to diagnose which tooth may be the culprit until localization occurs. Treatment involves cleaning the canal space by removing the infected or affected nerve, washing the space and filling the space with an inert, rubber-like material that helps seal the space. Bio-compatible cements are used with this material to seal any smaller openings. As with any procedure, success or failure of a procedure depends on the circumstances, infection and patient. These can be discussed with the individual dentist. After endodontic therapy, the patient returns to the dentist to restore the tooth.

POSTERIOR PORCELAIN INLAY/ONLAY

This is a highly esthetic, non-metallic restoration that is bonded on the prepared tooth to restore the beauty, strength and function of the tooth. The procedure is similar to that of a crown, however, due to new techniques of minimal invasineness, the dentist tries to maintain as much sound tooth structure as possible. An accurate impression is taken of the tooth, a temporary filling is placed and a porcelain restoration is fabricated by the dental laboratory. Upon return, the tooth is chemically prepared, and the inlay/onlay is bonded onto the prepared tooth. The bite is adjusted and polished. The tooth is once again functionally restored to its almost natural form.

PORCELAIN VENEERS

Veneers are porcelain wafers that are laboratory fabricated and are bonded onto the tooth. They are highly esthetic and lifelike. They are designed to correct colors, sizes, shapes, spaces and alignments of teeth. They are stronger and more durable than composites.

PERIODONTAL SCALING

Periodontal scaling is a procedure whereby a dentist or hygienist removes the deposits from under the gum line. Plaque and tartar is removed from the root surface. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia so as to make the patient more comfortable. Many times it can be performed in two to four visits depending upon the amount of deposit or inflammation present.

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants are designed to provide the foundation for the restorative dentist to replace missing teeth to form and function. The patient has the ability to eat virtually anything. Facial contours and tooth space is also maintained by replacing missing teeth. Implants are fabricated of titanium posts which are inserted into the jaw bone where the teeth are missing. There are many different types of implants and the determination is made on examination and the degree of space, amount of remaining bone and individual choice of dentist. Once the implant is placed, a healing time is needed, which may take six months. Once the implant is ready, it acts as if it were a tooth root substitute, where the dentist can now perform his restorative treatment.

DENTURE

This is a removable appliance that is custom fabricated for the patient to replace missing teeth. The materials used are made of acrylic resins alone or in conjunction with various metals. A partial denture replaces some teeth where the patient has some remaining permanent teeth. A complete or full denture replaces all teeth. An immediate denture, whether complete or partial, involves placing the appliance the same day the teeth are removed.

EXTRACTION

An extraction is the removal of a tooth or teeth that is non-restorable, non-useful, or harmful to the patient. There exists many systemic precautions, do's and dont's that should be discussed by each individual and their dentist. Post extraction precautions include some of the following:

Pressure-bite on gauze or sponge over extraction site for at least 45 minutes after extractions.
No rinsing or mouthwash use for at least 24 hours post extractions.
Rinsing may be allowed after 24 hours depending on the patient, with warm salt water, i.e. 1/2 teaspoon salt in approximately eight ounces water every two hours. Best to still avoid mouthrinses.
Avoid any pressure that may dissolve clot such as using straws, smoking, etc.
Avoid brushing the first 24 hours.
Avoid alcohol for a few days.

If bleeding persists, important to call your dentist. If sutures were placed after extraction it is important to return for removal of sutures and to evaluate healing. If swelling occurs, which often happens after extractions, it can be minimized by placing an ice bag as soon as possible on the side of the extraction for a 15 minute interval and can be repeated every 30 minutes for the next six hours post-operatively. Ice should be used only on the day of surgery. For pain and infections, your dentist may require oral pain medications and/or antibiotics.

MOUTHGUARDS

A mouthguard is an appliance made to protect teeth and surrounding tissue from oral trauma during athletic or physical activities. The mouthguard can be prefabricated or stock, or custom made by a dentist. Custom fit ones have been shown to be more comfortable. For children, they must be changed as new teeth erupt. It is known that mouthguards can prevent serious injuries such as jaw fractures, neck injuries, concussions, and teeth fractures. Studies have reported that concussions can be decreased by almost 50% by wearing a mouthguard. Any activity where there is a strong chance for contact, it is recommended that the mouthguard be worn.

ORTHODONTICS (BRACES)

Orthodontics is the art of aligning the teeth and jaws to improve the patient 's smile and oral health. It is recommended that a child be seen by an orthodontist early on so as to form a baseline on development of the child’s arch and jaw. If braces are needed, placement usually occurs between ten and fourteen years old. The reason for this age is due to the fact that the mouth and head are still growing. Braces are worn depending on each individual case. The average length of time is between eighteen and thirty months which is followed by wearing a retainer for a few months to allow the tissues and bones to form around new tooth position. With braces, oral hygiene is more important than ever before. Due to the appliances and tiny spaces that they contain, food and plaque get trapped. Decalcification and cavities can form quickly so children must brush more often. The use of fluoride toothpastes and rinses are also recommended to protect the teeth.

CROWNS (CAPS)

Procedure whereby a tooth is covered to strengthen a damaged tooth. The tooth may have been damaged by decay, or have a previous restoration that has fractured. Root canaled teeth are also crowned if sufficient tooth is missing or if the dentist feels that the tooth will last longer by protecting it with the crown. There are several types of crowns. The dentist and patient will make the decision as to which one is best for patient. This involves several phases. One in which the dentist prepares the tooth and a temporary is fabricated and used to temporize the tooth while the crown is being processed in a dental laboratory. The second step is inserting the permanent crown. Failing to return to have the permanent crown placed can cause damage to the underlying tooth due to weakness and poor fit of the temporary crown.

COMPOSITES

Composites are a plastic-like material in the resin family used to fill teeth. The traditional composite resins are made up of a large amount of inorganic filler particles bound by an organic polymer matrix or mesh. The newer generation composites have superior properties which include higher strength, hardness, elasticity, abrasion resistance and high polishability to make the restoration appear lifelike. Uses include cosmetic, filling cavities, correcting size, color and shapes of teeth. They can be used in front as well as back teeth.

BONDING

A procedure whereby a dentist uses special dental adhesives between tooth surface and another material. The tooth is first chemically treated with a special dental acid which causes microscopic porosites in the enamel. The adhesives form a bond with the bonding material. These materials come in various colors and shades. There are also flowable and dough-like materials. The dentist chooses the one he feels best suits theprocedure he is performing. The materials at present are highly polishable, are very strong and most last quite a long time. Some even contain fluoride which aids in preventing new cavities from forming. Bonding uses include restoring chips, filling holes, spaces or discolorations.

INVISALIGN Straighten your teeth without Wires or Braces

Invisalign is the invisible way to straighten teeth using a series of custom-made, nearly undetectable transparent aligners. It has been proven effective in both clinical research and in practices nationwide. So whether your teeth are crowded, too far apart or have shifted since wearing braces, you'll have a new reason to smile. Upon your initial exam the doctor will create a treatment plan for you. In using the latest advances in 3-D computer technology you will be able to see the step by step headway as well as the final result, before you even start wearing your aligners. Because there are no metal wires and brackets, Invisalign is comfortable. And because it is removable, eating, brushing and flossing is no problem. You can still enjoy your favorite foods and smile with out holding back.

Q: How does Invisalign work?

A: Using the latest advances in 3-D computer technology, Invisalign translates your doctor's instructions into a series of nearly undetectable aligners. You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, moving your teeth gradually week by week, millimeter by millimeter until you've achieved the desired result.

Q: Is Invisalign effective?

A: Invisalign is very effective for a wide range of people whose teeth are crowded or have spaces between them, as well as for those whose teeth may have shifted after having worn braces in their youth.

Q: How often will I have to wear my aligners?

A: Invisalign only works while you are wearing the aligners. It's recommended that you wear your aligners full-time, day and night, except to eat, brush and floss your teeth or as directed by your doctor.

Q: How long does Invisalign take?

A: The duration of treatment depends on the severity of your case, which determines the number of aligners you need. During you initial visit the Doctor can determine the length of your treatment, which in most cases is between 9 to 15 months. Invisalign takes about half the time of traditional braces.

Q: How much does Invisalign cost?

A: As with traditional braces, the cost will be based on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. However, if your dental insurance plan covers traditional braces, it will typically cover Invisalign to the same extent.

Q: How do I get started?

A: Getting started with treatment couldn't be easier. In fact, you can be on your way to straighter teeth and a beautiful smile within weeks of visiting your orthodontist or dentist.


			BLEACHING Bleaching is a safe, effective way to lighten the color of teeth. A mold of the teeth are taken to fabricate bleaching trays which custom fit the patient's mouth. The patient wears these trays usually for 30-45 minutes or overnight depending on the product strength selected. Most treatment takes two weeks, however, more time may be needed in severely stained or discolored teeth. X-RAYS ( RADIOGRAPHS) X-rays are an important tool that provides the dentist the ability to examine the roots, jaws, and facial bones of the patient. X-rays aid the dentist in determining the degree of decay, periodontal disease, abscesses or any pathology, i.e. cysts or tumors, that may not show clinically through a visual examination alone. X-rays are taken based on the individual dentist's assessment of the patient. Most new patients have a full set of x-rays taken and check-up x-rays are taken as needed. Types of X-rays: Bitewing - determine the presence of decay in between teeth. Periapical - shows root structures, cysts, bone level or other pathology. Panoramic - a broad view of entire structure of mouth on one film. It is used to determine if pathology is present, position of wisdom teeth, etc. It is not used to diagnose cavities. By using new, state-of-the-art technology, and by using new fast film, radiation exposure has been greatly decreased. TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDER - TMD This a condition whereby jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and the nerves associated with this region cause pain. TMD most often affects women twice as much as men. The causes include, overuse of jaw muscles and trauma. The symptoms can include jaw pain, especially in morning, earache - with no infection-, jaw clicking when opening jaw, difficulty in opening mouth, stiff or locked jaw. The treatment would include resting of jaw, anti-inflammatory drugs (non-aspirin), stress management, eating soft foods, wearing a splint or mouthguard and avoiding chewing gum. TEETH CLEANING(PROPHYLAXIS) Prophylaxis is a procedure where a dentist or dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from the teeth. This will make the gums and teeth healthier. It is not uncommon for patients to note that teeth appear slightly more sensitive after a dental cleaning. The reason for this is that plaque and tartar coat the tooth surface and shield them from substances in the mouth. Once they are removed a transient sensitivity may occur but soon leaves. It is important for one to brush and floss after every meal to prevent buildup of plaque and tartar. SILVER (AMALGAM) FILLING These are fillings which contain amalgam. Amalgam is formed from particles that contain silver, copper, tin and mixed with mercury. It is packed into the cavity before it hardens into a strong alloy. At first the color is a silver color but after oxidation occurs it turns black. SEALANTS Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Most tooth decay in children and adolescents occur on the chewing surfaces of these back teeth or molars. This is because molars have irregular surfaces with pits and grooves which tend to trap food and bacterial debris. Sealants flow into and coat these pits and grooves so that bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay. The teeth most likely to benefit from sealant applications are the first and second molars just after they have erupted and before decay has had a chance to occur. Generally, the first molars erupt at six years old and second molars at about twelve years old. ROOT CANAL TREATMENT A root canal is needed when the pulp or nerve of a tooth gets affected by decay or trauma. The blood flow within the tooth rushes to the site of inflammation in order to aid the tooth, but what occurs as a result is a pressure on the nerve endings which generates the pain response. Pain usually occurs at night or when lying down, can be triggered by hot or cold and can be occasional or continuous. What occurs is a slow progression whereby decay may invade the pulp space and travel through the canal and settle at the end of the root. What occurs is an abscess or swelling at this site. Other causes of nerve pain can be fractures of teeth, large fillings that are not tolerated by the pulp or constant trauma to the tooth. Occasionally, it is difficult to diagnose which tooth may be the culprit until localization occurs. Treatment involves cleaning the canal space by removing the infected or affected nerve, washing the space and filling the space with an inert, rubber-like material that helps seal the space. Bio-compatible cements are used with this material to seal any smaller openings. As with any procedure, success or failure of a procedure depends on the circumstances, infection and patient. These can be discussed with the individual dentist. After endodontic therapy, the patient returns to the dentist to restore the tooth. POSTERIOR PORCELAIN INLAY/ONLAY This is a highly esthetic, non-metallic restoration that is bonded on the prepared tooth to restore the beauty, strength and function of the tooth. The procedure is similar to that of a crown, however, due to new techniques of minimal invasineness, the dentist tries to maintain as much sound tooth structure as possible. An accurate impression is taken of the tooth, a temporary filling is placed and a porcelain restoration is fabricated by the dental laboratory. Upon return, the tooth is chemically prepared, and the inlay/onlay is bonded onto the prepared tooth. The bite is adjusted and polished. The tooth is once again functionally restored to its almost natural form. PORCELAIN VENEERS Veneers are porcelain wafers that are laboratory fabricated and are bonded onto the tooth. They are highly esthetic and lifelike. They are designed to correct colors, sizes, shapes, spaces and alignments of teeth. They are stronger and more durable than composites. PERIODONTAL SCALING Periodontal scaling is a procedure whereby a dentist or hygienist removes the deposits from under the gum line. Plaque and tartar is removed from the root surface. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia so as to make the patient more comfortable. Many times it can be performed in two to four visits depending upon the amount of deposit or inflammation present. DENTAL IMPLANTS Dental implants are designed to provide the foundation for the restorative dentist to replace missing teeth to form and function. The patient has the ability to eat virtually anything. Facial contours and tooth space is also maintained by replacing missing teeth. Implants are fabricated of titanium posts which are inserted into the jaw bone where the teeth are missing. There are many different types of implants and the determination is made on examination and the degree of space, amount of remaining bone and individual choice of dentist. Once the implant is placed, a healing time is needed, which may take six months. Once the implant is ready, it acts as if it were a tooth root substitute, where the dentist can now perform his restorative treatment. DENTURE This is a removable appliance that is custom fabricated for the patient to replace missing teeth. The materials used are made of acrylic resins alone or in conjunction with various metals. A partial denture replaces some teeth where the patient has some remaining permanent teeth. A complete or full denture replaces all teeth. An immediate denture, whether complete or partial, involves placing the appliance the same day the teeth are removed. EXTRACTION An extraction is the removal of a tooth or teeth that is non-restorable, non-useful, or harmful to the patient. There exists many systemic precautions, do's and dont's that should be discussed by each individual and their dentist. Post extraction precautions include some of the following: Pressure-bite on gauze or sponge over extraction site for at least 45 minutes after extractions. No rinsing or mouthwash use for at least 24 hours post extractions. Rinsing may be allowed after 24 hours depending on the patient, with warm salt water, i.e. 1/2 teaspoon salt in approximately eight ounces water every two hours. Best to still avoid mouthrinses. Avoid any pressure that may dissolve clot such as using straws, smoking, etc. Avoid brushing the first 24 hours. Avoid alcohol for a few days. If bleeding persists, important to call your dentist. If sutures were placed after extraction it is important to return for removal of sutures and to evaluate healing. If swelling occurs, which often happens after extractions, it can be minimized by placing an ice bag as soon as possible on the side of the extraction for a 15 minute interval and can be repeated every 30 minutes for the next six hours post-operatively. Ice should be used only on the day of surgery. For pain and infections, your dentist may require oral pain medications and/or antibiotics. MOUTHGUARDS A mouthguard is an appliance made to protect teeth and surrounding tissue from oral trauma during athletic or physical activities. The mouthguard can be prefabricated or stock, or custom made by a dentist. Custom fit ones have been shown to be more comfortable. For children, they must be changed as new teeth erupt. It is known that mouthguards can prevent serious injuries such as jaw fractures, neck injuries, concussions, and teeth fractures. Studies have reported that concussions can be decreased by almost 50% by wearing a mouthguard. Any activity where there is a strong chance for contact, it is recommended that the mouthguard be worn. ORTHODONTICS (BRACES) Orthodontics is the art of aligning the teeth and jaws to improve the patient 's smile and oral health. It is recommended that a child be seen by an orthodontist early on so as to form a baseline on development of the child’s arch and jaw. If braces are needed, placement usually occurs between ten and fourteen years old. The reason for this age is due to the fact that the mouth and head are still growing. Braces are worn depending on each individual case. The average length of time is between eighteen and thirty months which is followed by wearing a retainer for a few months to allow the tissues and bones to form around new tooth position. With braces, oral hygiene is more important than ever before. Due to the appliances and tiny spaces that they contain, food and plaque get trapped. Decalcification and cavities can form quickly so children must brush more often. The use of fluoride toothpastes and rinses are also recommended to protect the teeth. CROWNS (CAPS) Procedure whereby a tooth is covered to strengthen a damaged tooth. The tooth may have been damaged by decay, or have a previous restoration that has fractured. Root canaled teeth are also crowned if sufficient tooth is missing or if the dentist feels that the tooth will last longer by protecting it with the crown. There are several types of crowns. The dentist and patient will make the decision as to which one is best for patient. This involves several phases. One in which the dentist prepares the tooth and a temporary is fabricated and used to temporize the tooth while the crown is being processed in a dental laboratory. The second step is inserting the permanent crown. Failing to return to have the permanent crown placed can cause damage to the underlying tooth due to weakness and poor fit of the temporary crown. COMPOSITES Composites are a plastic-like material in the resin family used to fill teeth. The traditional composite resins are made up of a large amount of inorganic filler particles bound by an organic polymer matrix or mesh. The newer generation composites have superior properties which include higher strength, hardness, elasticity, abrasion resistance and high polishability to make the restoration appear lifelike. Uses include cosmetic, filling cavities, correcting size, color and shapes of teeth. They can be used in front as well as back teeth. BONDING A procedure whereby a dentist uses special dental adhesives between tooth surface and another material. The tooth is first chemically treated with a special dental acid which causes microscopic porosites in the enamel. The adhesives form a bond with the bonding material. These materials come in various colors and shades. There are also flowable and dough-like materials. The dentist chooses the one he feels best suits theprocedure he is performing. The materials at present are highly polishable, are very strong and most last quite a long time. Some even contain fluoride which aids in preventing new cavities from forming. Bonding uses include restoring chips, filling holes, spaces or discolorations. INVISALIGN Straighten your teeth without Wires or Braces Invisalign is the invisible way to straighten teeth using a series of custom-made, nearly undetectable transparent aligners. It has been proven effective in both clinical research and in practices nationwide. So whether your teeth are crowded, too far apart or have shifted since wearing braces, you'll have a new reason to smile. Upon your initial exam the doctor will create a treatment plan for you. In using the latest advances in 3-D computer technology you will be able to see the step by step headway as well as the final result, before you even start wearing your aligners. Because there are no metal wires and brackets, Invisalign is comfortable. And because it is removable, eating, brushing and flossing is no problem. You can still enjoy your favorite foods and smile with out holding back. Q: How does Invisalign work? A: Using the latest advances in 3-D computer technology, Invisalign translates your doctor's instructions into a series of nearly undetectable aligners. You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, moving your teeth gradually week by week, millimeter by millimeter until you've achieved the desired result. Q: Is Invisalign effective? A: Invisalign is very effective for a wide range of people whose teeth are crowded or have spaces between them, as well as for those whose teeth may have shifted after having worn braces in their youth. Q: How often will I have to wear my aligners? A: Invisalign only works while you are wearing the aligners. It's recommended that you wear your aligners full-time, day and night, except to eat, brush and floss your teeth or as directed by your doctor. Q: How long does Invisalign take? A: The duration of treatment depends on the severity of your case, which determines the number of aligners you need. During you initial visit the Doctor can determine the length of your treatment, which in most cases is between 9 to 15 months. Invisalign takes about half the time of traditional braces. Q: How much does Invisalign cost? A: As with traditional braces, the cost will be based on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. However, if your dental insurance plan covers traditional braces, it will typically cover Invisalign to the same extent. Q: How do I get started? A: Getting started with treatment couldn't be easier. In fact, you can be on your way to straighter teeth and a beautiful smile within weeks of visiting your orthodontist or dentist.