How can I keep my teeth and gums happy?

• Brushing your teeth twice a day, and using a fluoride toothpaste at least once.

Is Periodontal Disease reversible?

The disease is still reversible at this stage and can usually be eliminated by thorough brushing and flossing. In the more advanced stages of gum disease, called periodontitis, the gums and bone that support the teeth become seriously damaged beyond repair.

What are the stages of gum disease?

Gingivitis: this is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gumline. Periodontitis: This is your final warning to take your treatment seriously. The supporting bone and tissue that keeps your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may begin to form a pocket below the gumline, which traps food and plaque causing more issues and possibly infections. Advanced Periodontitis: This is the final stage of gum disease, the tissue and bone supporting your teeth are permanently destroyed, which can cause your teeth to shift or loosen.

Can you get Gum Disease without any teeth?

Yes, gum disease is an ailment of the gums, and is independent of the teeth.

Can your gums grow back?

Gum tissue doesn't regenerate the way other types of tissue does. As a result, receding gums don't grow back.

What is the difference between a cap and a dental crown?

A crown is a prosthetic treatment for a broken or badly decayed tooth. A “cap” is an older term and is now commonly used to refer to dental crowns.

How long do conventional dentures last?

The average life expectancy of a denture is seven to ten years. The denture itself is designed to last considerably longer than this, however the shape of your mouth/jawbone will change requiring new dentures.

How long does a dental crown last?

On average, dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years. This depends on the amount of wear and tear the crown takes, how well you follow good oral hygiene practices, and your personal habits.

How do you know if your dental crown needs to be replaced?

• Your dental crown is old. Dental crowns can last for more than fifteen years before seeing any damage.

My dental crown fell off, what do I do?

Simply, sometimes crowns fall off. Most often the reason is from the decay of the underlying tooth or loosening of the cementing material used to place the crown. If your crown comes off, clean the crown and the front of the tooth. Contact Point Meadows Dentistry immediately, we will give you specific instructions on how to care for the tooth and crown for the day or so until you can be seen for an evaluation. We may be able to re-cement the crown in place; if not, a new crown will need to be made.

How long do you have to wait to get dentures after teeth are pulled?

Typically, six to eight weeks after the extractions. This allows sufficient time for the mouth to heal. We will re-examine your mouth to ensure enough time has passed prior to fitting your dentures.

Are dentures typically covered by Dental Insurance?

Most complete coverage dental insurance policies include some restorative coverage, typically up to 50% of the cost of dentures is covered. Co-pays and regular deductibles still apply.

Why do my dentures keep falling out?

The most common reason for loose-fitting dentures is a process known as bone resorption, where the gums begin to shrink due to them no longer needing to hold your teeth in place followed by bone loose.

Can teeth whitening be painful?

When performed by a dental professional, teeth whitening is an effective and safe way to brighten your smile. The most common side effect of whitening is temporary tooth sensitivity. In extreme cases the sensitivity can last up to a few days. It’s important to consult your dentist, to make sure you are a candidate for teeth whitening and to determine the appropriate course of treatment.

How long do Veneers last?

The cost of veneers is not typically covered by insurance. To be certain, check with your dental insurance company.

Are the alternatives to Veneers?

Yes, bondings and crowns are alternative options. Veneers may be the best option for individuals who want to change the color and shape of their teeth more than just a little bit, but not enough to require a crown.

Are Veneers covered under insurance?

The cost of veneers is not typically covered by insurance. To be certain, check with your dental insurance company.

My teeth are sensitive, what other whitening options do I have?

To avoid a hypersensitive reaction, we may recommend take-home bleaching trays with a lower concentration of carbamide peroxide – which is not as potent as hydrogen peroxide.

Is teeth whitening permanent?

In-office bleaching is not a permanent solution. Like your teeth prior to the treatment, they will remain susceptible to stains. We will recommend you follow-up your treatment with a lower-percentage bleach in-home treatment that can be kept on the teeth for longer periods of time.

Will is better Invisalign® or veneers?

Invisalign® is used primarily for straightening, whereas veneers help with the cosmetic appearance of teeth. Invisalign® is an alternative to braces whereas veneers are described as an alternative to false teeth because they are a capping system.

Will my Dental Insurance cover Invisalign®?

Most insurance plans cover orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign®, up to a certain amount. To ensure that you get the most from your insurance plan, our staff will work closely with you to correctly submit the documents. We want you to pay as little out-of-pocket as possible so you can enjoy the benefits of Invisalign® treatment on any budget.

Is Invisalign® Painful?

Invisalign® treatment is generally less painful than traditional metal braces, but patients often experience some degree of discomfort during treatment.

What is the earliest age recomended to start Invisalign treatment?

This is case-by-case question, but, generally not anyone under the age of 16.

What is the purpose of wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are believed to be evolutionary and were at one time helpful to our distant ancestors who ate diets that consisted of rougher foods. As their teeth wore down or fell out, wisdom teeth provided back-up and replenished the worn out teeth!

What can happen if I do not remove an infected tooth?

Left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of your body, resulting in a potentially life-threatening infection. In severe cases, the bacteria can travel toward the heart and settle in the heart lining, a heart valve, or a blood vessel. This can cause a condition known as Bacterial Endocarditis. Another severe outcome is Ludwig’s angina, a condition where the infection restricts one’s airways.

How long does it take to pull a tooth?

If you're having one tooth extracted, the entire process can be completed in 20-40 minutes. However, if you're having multiple teeth extracted, you should expect to spend a little more time in our office.

Can I drive home after a tooth extraction?

You won't need a sick note for this. You can drive immediately after the procedure, as long as only local anaesthetic was used

What is an abscessed tooth?

An Abcess is a condition where a pocket of pus (caused by a bacterial infection) builds up around the tooth. Every year approximately 200,000 Americans suffer from the crippling pain from an infected tooth.

Are dental Implants covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans do not cover cosmetic dental procedures. However, your insurance may cover a portion of the cost of a replacement tooth like the extraction. But typically the implant, crown and procedure are not covered.

Are dental Implants painful?

Immediately after the surgery and for a few days you will likely experience some soreness or discomfort. After all, this is a major dental procedure. However, most pain should be manageable and should not hold you back from normal daily activities.

Are Dental Implants safe?

Dental Implants are a safe well-established treatment. Contemporary dental implants have been used for over 30 years.

Is a Frenectomy painful?

There is typically very little postoperative pain. Some patients say the sensation is similar to having a "pizza burn" in your mouth. Swishing with a mouthwash may protect the uncovered surgical area and improve the healing process.

How long after my dental implant procedure can I eat normally?

A soft food diet is recommended for the first 2-7 days.

How many teeth can you have extracted in one day?

The removal of many teeth at one time is quite different than the extraction of one or two teeth. Because the bone must be shaped and smoothed prior to the insertion of a denture.

What is a dry socket?

A dry socket is a condition that may result after a tooth extraction if the blood clot is dislodged and lost. The dry socket leaves nerves exposed, which is very painful. This condition requires a dentist to clean the wound and places a special dressing into the socket.

Are Root Canals Painful?

While most people can expect some discomfort during and after a root canal procedure, excessive pain is not normal.

Why is a Root Canal better than an Extraction?

Between a root canal and a tooth extraction, a root canal is the preferred choice because it works on fixing your natural tooth. If a tooth is too far compromised, we may recommend an extraction, followed by a dental implant to replace what was lost.

How long does the procedure take?

You can generally expect one or two appointments of about 90 minutes each. The first appointment is general to remove all infection from the root system of the tooth, and on the second visit the root canal is cleaned, disinfected, shaped, measured and filled to prevent any further infection.

What age will your office start seeing children?

We are happy to see all children six-years-old and above!

How can I prepare my child for their dental appointment?

The best preparation for your child’s visit to our office is maintaining a positive attitude. Children pick up on your apprehensions, and if you make negative comments about trips to the dentist you can be sure that your little one will also fear the dentist.

How often should my child see the Dentist?

We recommend scheduling checkups every six months. Depending on the circumstances of your child’s oral health, we may recommend more frequent visits.