1-
Q: What causes tooth decay?
2-
Q: My dentist told me that I have periodontal disease (gum disease).
What is that?
3-
Q: How do I know if I need braces?
4-
Q: Are metal braces the only alternative?
5-
Q: What are dental implants?
6-
Q: I have always wanted white teeth. What are my options?
7-
Q: What are porcelain veneers?
1-
Q: What causes tooth decay?
A: Tooth decay is caused by bacteria in the mouth that form colonies
in what is called plaque and biofilm. This plaque and biofilm can be
removed by brushing and flossing. However, if not removed, decay can
occur. There are specific types of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
The bacteria consume carbohydrates (sugars) when we eat. Their waste
product is acid, which starts to break down the enamel. Enamel is a
very tough protective layer on our teeth. Once this armor is breached,
decay can progress very rapidly. There are many factors that increase
a person’s risk for tooth decay. These include genetics, the molecular
structure of the enamel and dentin, salivary flow, the type and number
of bacteria present in the mouth, oral hygiene, diet, and condition
of previous restorations in the mouth.[Top]
2- Q: My dentist told me that I have periodontal
disease (gum disease). What is that?
A: Gum disease is a very general term that includes many different diseases.
We’ll focus on the two major types; gingivitis, and periodontitis.
Gum disease is caused by specific types of bacteria. Some of the risk
factors include genetics, oral hygiene, pregnancy, smoking, and diabetes.
Gingivitis is limited to the gums. Periodontitis affects the gums and
bone that surrounds the teeth. In both types of diseases, the patient
may notice bad breath and bleeding gums. In periodontitis, the patient
will also lose bone around the teeth which may ultimately lead to tooth
loss. Periodontitis has also been linked to increased risk for heart
attacks, strokes, diabetes, and premature births in pregnant mothers.[Top]
3- Q: How do I know if I need braces?
A: Braces are used to correct problems with the position of teeth. Patients
with crowded teeth, spaces between their teeth, or with teeth that do
not fit together properly may benefit from braces or other types of
orthodontic treatment. One of the main reasons people seek orthodontic
treatment is to improve the appearance of their smiles. Another great
reason is that straight teeth allow better oral hygiene and could prevent
some decay and gum disease.[Top]
4- Q: Are metal braces the only alternative?
A: No. The metal brackets that are attached to the teeth during orthodontic
treatment are still the most widely used. However, today we have tooth
colored brackets that can be used for a more natural appearance. Certain
patients can also be treated with Invisalign. Because Invisalign uses
clear plastic aligners to position and straighten teeth, they’re
virtually invisible.[Top]
5- Q: What are dental implants?
A: Interestingly, dental implants have been performed for thousands
of years. Egyptian mummies have been found with gold wire implants in
the jawbones. Modern implantology began in the United States at the
beginning of the 20th century. However, popularity really grew in the
1980’s with the increased success of the titanium implant. Dental
implants are used to replace missing teeth. The implant is placed where
the root of the tooth used to be. The implant over a period of a few
months becomes integrated in the jaw bone. At that point the final restoration
can be made. The final restoration can be a single crown to replace
one tooth, multiple crowns or a bridge to replace several teeth, or
even a complete removable denture that would clip onto the implants
for retention and stability of the denture. The implant surgery does
not require general anesthetic. Local anesthetic is used to numb up
the area, the implant is placed, and the patient is expected to return
to work the next day.[Top]
6- Q: I have always wanted white teeth. What
are my options?
A: With today’s modern materials and techniques anyone can have
beautiful white teeth. Teeth whitening is a very popular option. There
are many types of whitening systems available. The effectiveness of
whitening depends on the type and concentration of whitening solution
that is applied to the teeth and the length of time that the solution
remains in contact with the teeth. Over the counter whitening systems
are often low concentration or don’t contact the teeth well enough
for predictable results. Your dentist can make impressions of your teeth
that would be used to fabricate precisely fitted whitening trays. This
ensures that the whitening solution applied to the teeth gets where
it needs to and stays there to whiten the teeth. The whitening solutions
available to dental offices is highly concentrated and should only be
used with custom made trays and under your dentist’s supervision.
You should have a thorough examination before any whitening is attempted
to treat any tooth decay or gum disease.
Every individual has a limit to how much their teeth will whiten. Some
stains are very difficult or impossible to remove completely. Whitening
touch ups are usually needed every 6-12 months to maintain the results.
In cases with heavy staining porcelain veneers maybe a good option following
whitening.[Top]
7- Q: What are porcelain veneers?
A: Think of porcelain veneers like contact lenses for your teeth. They
are thin porcelain laminates that are custom made for each individual
tooth and then bonded in place. They are used to permanently whiten
teeth, correct minor crowding and spacing, and correct misshapen teeth.
The teeth are first reshaped slightly, an impression is made and sent
to the lab, and temporary veneers are placed for a period of a few weeks.
When ready the final veneers are tried on and bonded in place. Once
bonded in place veneers are very durable. Your dentist may recommend
that you wear a night guard while you sleep to protect your veneers
if there’s evidence of previous wear on your natural teeth or
you have a history of chipped teeth. With good oral hygiene and regular
dental visits, veneers should be at no higher risk for decay or fracture
than natural teeth.[Top]
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