Engelbrecht & Sikes DDS

Products And Services

• Porcelain Veneers

  Porcelain veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells of ceramic that are custom-fit and bonded to the front of the teeth. They can create an attractively white and even smile. Veneers can address a variety of issues, including chipped, yellow, stained, misshapen or crooked teeth, or teeth with spaces between them. A veneer placed on top of a tooth can quickly and easily improve the look of a smile. Benefits Of Porcelain Veneers Porcelain veneers are custom-made in a dental laboratory to look exactly like the patient's natural teeth. They are among the best of the restorative options when it comes to replicating the look of healthy tooth enamel. They are also resistant to staining from coffee or tea or smoking cigarettes. And, because veneers are so thin, light shines through them, helping them blend in naturally with the other teeth. Durability Of Porcelain Veneers Porcelain veneers are strong and durable and, with proper care, will often last for 10 to 15 years. Veneers are manufactured from the highest quality porcelain, fitted with precision, and bonded with the most advanced adhesive materials available. The Porcelain Veneer Procedure The placement of porcelain veneers requires three appointments for the following: Diagnosis And Treatment Planning This initial appointment provides the patient with the opportunity to take an active role in designing and discussing the restorative veneer process. The dentist will discuss the corrective abilities and limitations of this procedure with the patient. Preparation At the second appointment, the teeth being veneered are lightly buffed to compensate for the added thickness the veneers will create. The teeth are typically reduced by approximately one half of a millimeter. Next, an impression is taken of the teeth and sent to the lab for the creation of veneers. Temporary veneers can be placed if the patient is uncomfortable with the appearance of the natural teeth. The veneers are usually ready within one to two weeks. Bonding At the third appointment, the dentist will initially hold the veneers in place on the teeth with water or glycerin to determine whether they are perfect in fit and color. The color of the veneers can still be adjusted by altering the shade of the cement used to adhere them. Once the color is finalized, chemicals are applied to the teeth to optimize the bonding. Dental cement is then applied between the teeth and the veneers, and a special light is used to quickly harden the cement. Care And Maintenance Of Porcelain Veneers Sensitivity to hot and cold may occur after placement of veneers; this is caused by the reduction of enamel on the prepared teeth. Sensitivity is a common residual effect that typically dissipates in one to two weeks. Porcelain veneers should be cared for in the same way that natural teeth are. They will not be damaged by brushing and flossing, although using nonabrasive toothpaste is recommended. Veneers improve the appearance of teeth and, with proper home care and regular dental visits, will last for many years.

  Link: Porcelain Veneers

• Philips ZOOM® Whitening

  Philips ZOOM® whitening is a complete tooth whitening system. Philips ZOOM whitening offers safe, effective and fast brightening results, with the added benefit of even greater whitening power and less tooth sensitivity. Philips ZOOM whitening is fast and powerful, brightening teeth by up to eight shades in just 45 minutes with no trays or strips.Philips ZOOM whitening is an in-office treatment completed in a single visit. During the appointment, the dentist will apply a gentle, hydrogen peroxide-based whitening gel to the teeth. The gel is then exposed to a special high-intensity light. After the treatment, teeth will be up to eight or ten shades whiter. Philips ZOOM whitening also offers companion at-home whitening maintenance products, to maintain the luster and brightness between dentist treatments. Dentist supervised whitening is one of the safest and most conservative cosmetic dental treatments available. The most common side effect is an increased tooth sensitivity to cold for one to three days after treatment. In the past, dental cavities were filled with a mixture of metal alloys, also known as amalgam. Today, tooth-colored or composite fillings are a mixture of resin, glass or quartz and porcelain ceramics. These materials are resilient and long lasting. These fillings are colored to match the patient’s teeth and are practically invisible to the untrained eye. For aesthetic and/or medical purposes, these tooth-colored fillings can be used to replace old and worn dental amalgam, gold or other metal fillings. While composite fillings have visual advantages, over time they can become discolored. Just like metal fillings, tooth-colored fillings can be set and cured in one visit to the dentist. Tooth-colored fillings are priced similarly to metallic alloy. They are not as long-lasting as amalgam fillings, and may chip in certain locations of the mouth. The dentist will discuss filling material options and recommend options based on the patient’s medical and aesthetic needs.

  Link: Philips ZOOM® Whitening

• Tooth-Colored Fillings

  In the past, dental cavities were filled with a mixture of metal alloys, also known as amalgam. Today, tooth-colored or composite fillings are a mixture of resin, glass or quartz and porcelain ceramics. These materials are resilient and long lasting. These fillings are colored to match the patient’s teeth and are practically invisible to the untrained eye. For aesthetic and/or medical purposes, these tooth-colored fillings can be used to replace old and worn dental amalgam, gold or other metal fillings. While composite fillings have visual advantages, over time they can become discolored. Just like metal fillings, tooth-colored fillings can be set and cured in one visit to the dentist. Tooth-colored fillings are priced similarly to metallic alloy. They are not as long-lasting as amalgam fillings, and may chip in certain locations of the mouth. The dentist will discuss filling material options and recommend options based on the patient’s medical and aesthetic needs.

  Link: Tooth-Colored Fillings

• Dental Bonding

  Dental bonding is a special procedure used to restore, reshape and rejuvenate teeth, improving both their function and appearance. Dentists apply a thin layer of tooth-colored plastic to the front of the tooth and sculpt it to perfect the patient’s appearance. Dental bonding is used to repair chipped, cracked, broken, misshapen teeth or stained teeth or to fill in the spaces between teeth. Dental Bonding Material The dental bonding material is made of composite resin, or plastic, that hardens and fuses to the tooth when the dentist shines a special light on it. Once in place, the bonding material is shaped to correct the specific defect, colored to match the patient’s natural tooth and polished until it is smooth. The Dental Bonding Process Applying bonding to a patient’s teeth requires a three-step process. Step One An etching solution is applied to the tooth or teeth to prepare them to receive the bonding material. This solution gently roughens the surface of the tooth for a stronger bond between the tooth and the plastic. Step Two A thin layer of the bonding resin is placed on the surface of the tooth and is sealed in place using a special light. Several layers of resin may be added and hardened in turn. Each layer takes only a few minutes to harden. Step Three The bonding material is sculpted to the desired shape and colored to match the shade of the natural teeth. Finally, the bonding material is polished until it is entirely smooth. The dental bonding procedure takes 1 to 2 hours, and its results may last for up to 10 years before any restoration is necessary.

  Link: Dental Bonding

• Dentures

  Dentures are prosthetic devices designed to help patients with missing teeth, chew food, improve speaking habits, and improve the patient’s facial aesthetics. The absence of teeth can lead to a sunken, collapsed appearance to the mouth-area. By restoring the physical presence of teeth, this malformation is corrected, the patient’s mouth is supported and the appearance is improved by aesthetic standards. Aesthetic dentures are custom crafted to provide a precise comfortable fit, and to enhance overall facial features. The color of the teeth is carefully selected and the natural differences in tooth shape and size are carefully chosen based on each individual’s age, gender and unique facial qualities. In addition, dentures are made to replicate the gum tissue naturally while providing the proper structure and support for lips, cheeks and face. Types Of Dentures There are three types of dentures: Complete Dentures Complete or full dentures are only required for people who have lost all or most of the teeth on either of the two arches of the mouth. Most patients missing only a few teeth opt for fixed partial dentures, also known as “crown and bridge.” These must be precisely installed, especially when in between healthy teeth. Removable Partial Dentures Removable partial dentures are different from fixed partial dentures in that they are normally only used by people who have lost too many teeth for fixed dentures, but too few for full dentures. Stability Of Dentures A frequent issue with dentures is their ability to remain in place during usage. This is based on the following factors: Support The denture may have a tendency to clasp tighter and tighter to the gums as the mouth chews food. The better the support, the less likely the denture is to move vertically closer to the arch upon which it is situated. Stability Movement in the horizontal plane, sometimes described as “slipping” front to back or side to side, can be hazardous to the patient. The quality of a denture base is responsible for preventing movement and maintaining continuous contact with the gums. However, this is heavily dependent on the patient’s oral anatomy. Retention Retention describes the tendency of the denture to move vertically away from the gums, into the lumen of the mouth. The craftsmanship of the denture is tested here, as the better the intaglio or the inside of denture, copies the oral topography, the more effective the seal is. Maxillary dentures, used for the top teeth, achieve better unification with toothless gums due to the improvement in suction from the smooth surface. However, mandibular dentures, used for the bottom teeth, are much more effective if the patient still retains some teeth.

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• Partial Dentures

  Partial dentures are prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing or diseased teeth; restore the appearance and function of the teeth; or reduce the risk of gum disease. This type of replacement is often used when one or more healthy natural teeth remain in the area to support the denture. Patients are able to eat, speak and smile without difficulty once partial dentures are in place. These devices may be fixed or removable, depending on the preference and oral health of the patient. Regardless of the type, partial dentures are precisely fitted to replace the missing teeth in a patient’s mouth for improved comfort and functionality. Placement of partial dentures is performed by a dentist over a series of visits spaced several weeks apart. Partial dentures require the same oral care, including twice-a-day brushing and regular cleanings, as natural teeth. Over time, partial dentures may require minor adjustments that can easily be made by a dentist.

  Link: Partial Dentures

• Full Mouth Restoration

  Full mouth restoration involves reconstructing all of the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws through the use of restorative materials like crowns, bridges, veneers and dentures. Full mouth reconstruction can be a necessary treatment performed to preserve the patient’s oral health. Candidates For Full Mouth Restoration This treatment may be performed on patients who have missing or severely damaged teeth caused by: Decay Injury or fracture Acid erosion Tooth grinding Malocclusion Missing teeth often leads to serious dental problems and can significantly inhibit a patient’s ability to eat and speak. It is important to seek restorative treatment for any missing teeth, but especially when most or all of the teeth are damaged. Full Mouth Restoration Options There are many different treatment options available for patients requiring reconstruction. Each type of dental restoration offers its own benefits and several treatments may be combined to complete a full mouth restoration. There is a wide variety of prosthetic materials that are commonly used to replace damaged or missing teeth. These materials may be permanently implanted or glued to the mouth or can be removable and temporary. They may replace individual teeth, a few teeth or all of the teeth. Some of these options may include: Crowns Dental crowns are individual prosthetic teeth used to replace missing or severely damaged teeth. Crowns are implanted into the jawbone with a titanium implant root or placed with cement as a cap over an existing tooth. The actual crown can be made from metal, porcelain or a combination of the two and provide a natural looking and feeling replacement. Crowns provide a strong, sturdy, aesthetically pleasing replacement that can withstand the same pressures as a regular tooth, letting patients enjoy the convenience of eating, speaking and smiling without any problems. Bridges Dental bridges replace missing teeth with a short row of prosthetics that rely on the strength of surrounding teeth and help stabilize the bite. Bridges also help keep surrounding teeth from moving into the open space of the missing tooth. The surrounding teeth are prepared for the bridge, which is then attached to the teeth. Bridges can be permanent or removable and provide a restored function and appearance. Veneers Veneers are shells made from composite or porcelain that fit over the natural teeth to provide a white, even, full smile and can cover up crooked, chipped or discolored teeth. They are bonded to the front of the tooth after the tooth has been buffed in preparation of the veneer, which is then bonded to the teeth with an etching solution and special light. Veneers typically last for 10 to 15 years and are more durable and less expensive than other materials. Veneers are a cosmetic enhancement and cannot replace missing teeth. Dentures Dentures are for people who have lost many or all of their teeth and are usually used to replace an entire arch of teeth. Dentures can be removable or fixed, and partial or full, depending on each patient’s needs and preferences. Dentures can be treated just like natural teeth but require special care and adjustment when they are removable. Implants Dental implants are small titanium screws that are drilled into the jaw bone to replace missing teeth. The implant serves as the root of a replacement tooth and can be covered by a crown, bridge or dentures to provide a natural-looking replacement for the missing tooth. The implant is first placed into the jaw and then allowed to fuse with the bone before the prosthetic is placed on top. Implants provide long-lasting support that most closely replaces the individual strength and stability of the natural teeth. Full mouth restoration is a complicated procedure that involves multiple office visits and can take up to a year or longer to complete, depending on each patient’s individual case. A customized treatment plan for each individual patient will be developed with the dentist, to help regain a healthy smile.

  Link: Full Mouth Restoration

• Restorative Dentistry

  A patient who has teeth that are damaged or missing, whether from disease, injury or other causes, is a candidate for restorative dentistry, which will restore overall mouth health and make teeth look aesthetically pleasing. Receiving proper treatment for damaged or missing teeth is essential in order to prevent further problems and eliminate difficulties with eating or speaking. There are several restorative options available, and which ones are used depends upon the patient’s overall health and personal preference, and the doctor’s recommendation. Available restorative dental treatments include: Full and partial dentures Crowns and bridges Dental implants Mini dental implants Inlays and onlays Full-mouth reconstruction Each type of dental restoration has its own benefits. To complete a full-mouth restoration, several treatments may be combined.

  Link: Restorative Dentistry

• Cavities

  Cavities are small holes in the teeth that form as a result of decay. During the decay process, the outer layers of the teeth, known as enamel and dentin, are worn away, leaving eroded areas called cavities. Causes Of Cavities Cavities are caused by a buildup of bacteria, food particles and saliva which combine to form dental plaque, a film that coats the teeth. Since plaque is acidic, it can attack the tooth enamel, and then the dentin, causing decay which results in cavities. Regular tooth cleaning helps keep plaque away, but decay often occurs in the back teeth which are harder to clean. Symptoms Of Cavities Symptoms of cavities vary depending on their severity and location. Many people do not experience any symptoms when decay is just beginning. As decay progresses, however, patients may experience symptoms which include: Tooth pain Tooth sensitivity Pain while eating or drinking certain foods or beverages Visible holes in the teeth Treatment Of Cavities Treatment for cavities depends on the severity of the condition, which is why it is important to seek medical attention as early as possible. Treatment options may include the following: Fluoride treatments Fillings Crowns Root canal Practicing good oral health hygiene is extremely important in preventing cavities. Brushing and flossing the teeth at least twice daily is recommended.

  Link: Cavities

• Dental Fillings

  Dental tooth fillings are a restorative treatment, used to improve the appearance and functionality of teeth affected by damage or decay. The filling materials, which can be made from several different substances, help to even out tooth surfaces for more efficient biting and chewing. Dental fillings can last for many years and help keep the tooth looking and functioning at its best. Types Of Dental Fillings Composite Fillings Composite fillings are made of a glass or quartz filler within a resin medium that produces a tooth-colored material. Also known as filled resins, composites are often used in small to mid-size restorations, as they provide strength, durability and resistance to fracture. In addition, the shade of composite fillings is made to closely match the patient’s actual teeth, so that other people will not be aware that dental work has been done. Glass Ionomers Glass ionomers are also tooth-colored fillings that are made of a mixture of acrylic and glass, and are most often used in young children, because they release fluoride. This material is weaker than composites and usually lasts less than five years before a replacement is needed. Amalgam Fillings Amalgam fillings have been used for many years and are considered strong, durable and relatively inexpensive compared to other materials. Although strong and effective, many patients do not choose to use amalgam fillings because the silver color can be visible while eating, speaking or smiling. The Dental Filling Procedure During the filling procedure, the tooth is prepared by removing any decay or damage in the area with a dental hand piece or laser. The surface of the tooth is cleaned and prepared for filling. The filling material is placed in the targeted area, where it will be finished and polished to match the appearance of the natural teeth. Dental fillings are placed during a single visit to a dentist’s office. Some patients may require additional support after their filling procedure, such as the placement of a crown, implant or bridge. A root canal may be needed for severely damaged or infected teeth. The dentist will discuss the filling materials and options with each patient before the procedure to determine the best option.

  Link: Dental Fillings

• Oral Hygiene

  Proper oral hygiene is essential for healthy teeth and gums. People older than 35 lose more teeth from gum disease than from cavities. Gum disease (periodontal disease) is a broad term that encompasses several different gum conditions, including gingivitis and periodontitis. Many adults are affected at some point in their lives. The best way to prevent periodontal disease, as well as cavities, is through a regimen of thorough daily brushing and flossing. Most cases of periodontal disease develop because of bacterial plaque that builds up on the teeth. When plaque hardens, it causes tartar to form, which gradually destroys the tissues and bone that support the teeth. The risk of developing gum disease can be reduced by practicing good oral hygiene, which includes carefully brushing the teeth at least twice a day, and flossing them at least once a day. Proper brushing and flossing techniques should be used to ensure that teeth are adequately cleaned Brushing Teeth Correctly The outer surfaces of the teeth should be brushed using small, circular strokes that cover two to three teeth at a time. The toothbrush, which should have soft bristles, should be positioned at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Gentle pressure should be applied to make sure the toothbrush reaches the end of each tooth, where it meets the gums. To effectively clean the front teeth, the brush should be placed in a vertical position and short strokes should be used. These up and down motions should be repeated over all teeth and gums in the front of the mouth. The molars are used for chewing. Applying gentle pressure, the toothbrush should be moved back and forth, focusing on two to three teeth at a time. The brush should be repositioned frequently to ensure that it is reaching all surfaces. When brushing is complete, the mouth should be rinsed well to remove any food particles or plaque that might have been loosened. Flossing Teeth Correctly Periodontal disease often begins as an inflammation of the gums. This inflammation is usually caused by a buildup of bacteria plaque between the teeth and gums. Flossing is one of the most effective methods for removing plaque from the hard-to-reach surfaces between the teeth and near the gums. A proper flossing technique is important. Approximately 18 inches of floss should be used. The floss should be placed between the teeth by using a gentle back-and-forth motion. The floss should be moved to the gum line, and then moved around the edge of the tooth. A sliding up-and-down motion that extends the floss slightly into into the gum line should be used. The floss should then be lifted above the gums, and contoured around the edge of the next tooth, repeating the process. Both sides of every tooth should end up flossed. The floss should not be pressed too firmly into the gums, or it may cut the delicate gum tissue. After flossing is complete, the mouth should be rinsed with water to get rid of any plaque or food particles that were dislodged. When a person first starts a flossing routine, the gums may bleed or feel sore. With daily flossing, gums become less sensitive, and the bleeding should stop. Caring For Sensitive Teeth After a dental treatment, teeth may become sensitive to hot and cold. This is usually short-lived as long as the mouth is kept clean. If teeth are regularly very sensitive, the problem should be discussed with a dentist, who may recommend using medicated toothpaste, or a mouth rinse designed for sensitive teeth. Professional Dental Cleaning Seeing a dentist for a professional cleaning on a regular basis is essential to maintaining good dental health. A dentist can remove plaque and other substances that have built up on the teeth over time, and can recommend other preventive techniques to help maintain good oral health.

  Link: Oral Hygiene

• Dental Sealants

  Dental sealants are a very effective tool in the prevention of cavities. Dental sealants are a thin plastic film or coating that is applied to the surface of teeth. The sealant acts as a barrier between the tooth and food, bacteria and plaque; all of which can cause cavities. Sealants successfully prevent bacterial formation that causes tooth decay and other damage. The dental sealant procedure takes a few minutes for each tooth. The dentist cleans the tooth and paints the plastic sealant on to the enamel. This coating works like a barrier to prevent plaque from attacking the enamel. A special light may be used to speed the hardening and bonding process. As long as the sealant remains intact and in good condition, the surface of the tooth will remain protected. Combined with good oral hygiene that includes brushing and flossing, sealants are extremely effective in preventing cavities. Sealants can help both adults and children, and may need to be re-applied every few years.

  Link: Dental Sealants

• Tooth Extraction

  A tooth extraction, also known as exodontia, is one of the most common procedures performed at a dentist’s office. The procedure involves removing or pulling a tooth. An extraction may be necessary if there is disease, trauma or overcrowding. Causes For Tooth Extraction Tooth extractions may be performed for the following reasons and/or to remove the following conditions: Wisdom teeth Decayed teeth Broken teeth Overcrowding Loose teeth In preparation for braces Tooth Extraction Procedure After the dentist has decided that a tooth extraction is necessary, an X-ray will be used to further evaluate the tooth. The extraction procedure may be performed under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort, or general anesthesia if more than one tooth is removed. There are two types of dental extractions: Simple Extraction This is an extraction of a tooth that can be seen in the mouth. In a simple extraction, forceps are used to remove the tooth. Surgical Extraction A surgical extraction is performed on teeth that have broken at the gum line or have not descended into the mouth, such as wisdom teeth. It is a more complex extraction procedure that may be performed by an oral surgeon. This procedure may require general anesthesia. After the extraction, stitches may be necessary; alternatively, a bridge, implant or a denture will be used to replace one or more teeth. Recovery From A Tooth Extraction After the extraction, patients may experience a certain amount of pain. The pain may be relieved by: Applying ice to the external area if swelling occurs Rinsing with warm salt water Taking anti-inflammatory medication Antibiotics may be prescribed to fight infection. Patients are also advised to avoid certain foods and hot liquids for 24 hours after the procedure. A follow-up appointment may be necessary to remove stitches. Most patients recover completely from a tooth extraction within one to two weeks. Complications Of Tooth Extraction The dental extraction procedure is safe for most patients with minimal to no complications. While most complications are rare, they may include: Accidental damage to surrounding teeth Fractured jaw Soreness in the jaw Dry socket or exposure of bone in the tooth socket Infection Patients may also experience side effects from local and general anesthesia. The dentist or surgeon will discuss any potential side effects before the procedure.

  Link: Tooth Extraction

• Pediatric Dentistry

  Pediatric dentistry is an area of dentistry that specializes in treating the oral healthcare needs of children. Pediatric dentists provide regular checkups, cleanings and fluoride treatments, and overall oral treatment and care for children’s teeth. Pediatric dentists also commonly apply sealants to children’s teeth to prevent cavities. A pediatric dentist provides overall oral care for children, including treatment for: Cavities Teeth defects Dental injuries Malocclusion Gum disease Speech-related disorders Tongue tie (restricted frenulum) Oral conditions related to other diseases or underlying conditions Mouth guards for sports Dental appointments for children are important not only to evaluate tooth and gum health, but to educate them on preventing dental problems throughout their lives. A child should have her or his first dental exam about six months after the first tooth erupts from the gums, and should visit a pediatric dentist every six months thereafter. During a first dental visit, the pediatric dentist will examine the child’s teeth for decay and other dental problems. The dentist may ask the accompanying caregiver about thumb-sucking or pacifier habits, and overall dental health. The dentist will then advise the caregiver and child about proper oral care, which includes brushing, flossing and fluoride treatments. A follow-up visit is usually scheduled for six months later, beginning the dental-maintenance process that will help to ensure good oral health throughout the child’s life. A pediatric dentist can offer specialized oral care that a general dentist may not be able to. A pediatric dentist is trained in examining and treating children in an environment that has been designed to make them feel comfortable.

  Link: Pediatric Dentistry

• Dental implants

  Dental implants are an option to replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution to removable dentures. Dental implants are natural-looking replacement teeth that are fixed in the jaw. Implant treatment provides an option to correct the most troublesome cases associated with missing teeth and ill-fitting dentures. An artificial tooth root made of titanium, an implant is surgically placed into the jawbone to support tooth-replacement structures such as crowns, bridges and dentures. While the implant mimics the root of the tooth, the replacement structure looks and feels just like a natural tooth, providing patients with a permanent solution that replicates the fit and feel of natural teeth. Benefits Of Dental Implants Dental implants have many benefits over other tooth-replacement methods. Enhanced Esthetics Implants are placed within the gums. The crowns that are attached to them emerge in a manner similar to a natural tooth. This offers a more realistic and natural look compared to other alternatives. Reduction Of Bone Loss When a tooth is lost, the supporting bone structure gradually recedes over time. Dental implants integrate with the jawbone and stimulate its preservation, allowing the bone to stay healthy and intact while maintaining natural facial contours and appearance. Preservation Of Adjacent Teeth Other methods like fixed bridges must be anchored to adjacent teeth, unnecessarily sacrificing their quality and health. Dental implants are independent and do not rely on the support of other teeth, thus providing the ability to preserve the good teeth. Easier Eating As the jawbone shrinks, chewing efficiency is reduced, making it difficult to eat certain foods. Dental implants can restore chewing efficiency comparable to that of natural teeth, allowing patients to eat their favorite foods with confidence and without discomfort. The Dental Implant Procedure All treatment begins with a thorough exam and consultation. Typically, the process can take from 3 to 6 months. In some cases, the process may take longer because additional treatments, such as bone grafting, may be required to build up the bone so it can support an implant. The procedure and time frame depends on several factors: Dental health Condition and quality of the jawbone Number of teeth involved Dental implant restorations usually take place over a few appointments and involve several steps: The First Step A dentist or oral surgeon will cut into the gum to expose the bone. One or more implants are precisely placed into the jawbone to mirror the location of the root of the missing natural tooth. The Second Step After appropriate healing has taken place to allow for the implant to fuse within the bone, impressions of the teeth and bite are taken to custom-fabricate a connector post or abutment, and crown. The Final Step At the final appointment, the oral surgeon reopens the gum to expose the implant. The abutment and crown are attached to the implant, completing the process. Some patients may experience minor soreness after the dental implant procedure which can be treated with over the counter ibuprofen medication. Dental Implant Results Patients receive all the benefits of natural teeth with their dental implants. It is important to continue good oral hygiene with the implants to prevent bacteria buildup, which can cause gum disease or bone loss.

  Link: Dental implants

• Invisalign® Orthodontic Treatment

  For people who are dissatisfied with their smiles but have not done anything about them because they are not interested in a mouthful of metal, Invisalign® “braces” may be a good option. They eliminate both the discomfort of metal wires and the inconvenience of adjustments. The Invisalign system uses virtually invisible aligners that straighten teeth without metal bands, brackets or wires. The custom-made trays are comfortable, and easy to remove for eating, brushing, flossing and special occasions. The clear-plastic Invisalign aligners are so inconspicuous that it is difficult to tell when someone is wearing them. Invisalign Orthodontic Treatment Technology Invisalign aligners use the latest in 3-D computer imaging to determine a projected path of tooth movement for each patient. This allows a dentist to design a series of personalized aligners (repositioners) that work to straighten teeth over time. Each set of aligners is worn for approximately two weeks, at which point there is a changeover to a new set. Candidates For Invisalign Orthodontic Treatment Invisalign aligners capably treat most common problems found in adults and teens. They are successful in straightening crooked teeth, eliminating crowding and closing gaps. Invisalign aligners can be used to treat both minor cosmetic issues and more-complex bite problems. Benefits Of Invisalign Orthodontic Treatment Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, and do not draw attention to the mouth; most people cannot tell when someone is wearing them. Invisalign aligners offer many benefits over traditional metal braces inlcuding: More cosmetically appealing Lower cost Little-to-no impact on daily life Less painful Greater flexibility because aligners can be removed at any time Easier to keep teeth clean and healthy No dietary restrictions With no metal or wires to irritate the mouth, an active, athletic lifestyle, free from worry about injury or bracket breakage, can be maintained. Invisalign Orthodontic Treatment Process Step One: Consultation With A Certified Invisalign Provider To begin the Invisalign treatment process, a dentist must be consulted. The dentist will determine whether Invisalign aligners are suitable for the patient, and, if so, will develop an appropriate course of treatment. X-rays, photographs and impressions will be taken of the teeth. Step Two: Fabrication Of Invisalign Custom Aligners Advanced 3-D computer-imaging technology will analyze and transform impressions of a patient’s teeth into a custom-made series of clear and removable aligners. Using this same computer imaging, a dentist will be able to see the anticipated progression of the therapy, and what the teeth will look like after treatment is completed. This analysis can be done in-office before any treatment has started. Step Three: Receiving The Invisalign Aligners At the next visit, the patient receives the aligners. Each set is worn day and night for about two weeks, and is removed only to eat, drink, brush and floss. The patient sees the dentist every four to six weeks to ensure that treatment is progressing as planned, and to get the next set of aligners to take home. Treatment is complete once each set of aligners has been worn. The average treatment time, which depends on the complexity of the case, is typically six months to one year. The Invisalign system has been shown to be highly effective at straightening teeth.

  Link: Invisalign® Orthodontic Treatment

• Crowding Or Spacing Of The Teeth

  Crowding or spacing of the teeth can result from an anatomical abnormality in jaw structure or from disparities between the upper and lower jaw during growth. It may also be caused by a traumatic injury affecting the jaw. An inconsistency between the length or width of the jaw can result in an imbalance of the facial bones, muscles and teeth. An orthodontist can reposition the jaw so that as growth continues, the bones and teeth align correctly. If the disparities are not addressed during childhood, they can result in major jaw issues that require orthognathic (jaw) surgery. Tooth Crowding When there is too little space for all the teeth to fit into the mouth properly, crowding occurs. Teeth may, as they try to grow in too small a space to accommodate them, become crooked, slanted, twisted or transposed, perhaps growing in an inappropriate location such as behind or in front of an adjacent tooth, or even in the upper palate. Crowded teeth, apart from being unattractive, are more difficult to clean, resulting in increased risk of dental decay and periodontal disease. Also, because the crowded teeth interfere with a normal bite, they can cause bruxism, or teeth grinding, that can lead to loosened or fractured teeth, as well as temporomandibular joint pain (TMJ). At times, when there is a major lack of space for incoming teeth, they may not only transpose, or begin to grow in an improper location, they may become impacted and never erupt at all. Tooth impactions have to be corrected because they can cause serious problems, such as damaging the roots of nearby teeth and interfering with the drainage of the sinus cavities. Tooth Spacing Abnormal tooth spacing occurs when there are unnatural gaps between the teeth. Excessive space between teeth may be as problematic as tooth crowding. There are several reasons tooth spacing may occur, including: Unusually small teeth Missing teeth due to birth defect or injury Abnormal gum tissue Impacted teeth Protruding teeth Spaces between teeth may cause several dental and oral difficulties. The spaces may present problems with eating, overexposure of gums, and self-consciousness about facial appearance, particularly about smiling. Correcting Crowding Or Spacing Most crowding or spacing can be corrected through orthodontic treatment which may involve one or more of the following: Extraction of unnecessary teeth Repair or reshaping of irregular teeth Bonding or capping teeth Attaching braces to the teeth to correct misalignment Orthognathic surgery, in severe cases, to reshape the jaw Braces are typically worn for 1 to 2 years, followed by the wearing of a nighttime retainer to keep the teeth correctly positioned during sleep. At times, in cases of crowding, special orthodontic devices may be used to extend the range of the dental arc so that all the teeth can be accommodated.

  Link: Crowding Or Spacing Of The Teeth

• Orthodontic Retainers

  Orthodontic retainers are custom-made, removable devices, worn to keep teeth properly aligned. They may be used toward the end of orthodontic treatment, after braces have been removed, or for other dental or medical purposes. Retainers For Maloccusion Most frequently, retainers are used during routine orthodontic treatment for malocclusion (misalignment). In such situations, retainers are worn as directed once the braces have been removed. The patient may be advised, for example, to wear the retainer all the time for several months and then only during sleep for a year or more in order to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their abnormal positions. The tendency in recent times is for patients to continue using their retainers during the night for longer periods since it has been discovered that teeth can shift out of position even after years of orthodontic treatment. Other Reasons For Retainers In some cases, patients never have to be fitted with braces, but are able to wear only retainers from the beginning. This may occur when the retainers are designed to close gaps between teeth, move just one tooth to its correct location, or to help resolve speech or other medical problems. One problem treated with a particular type of retainer is a tongue thrust, a condition in which the tongue slips out between the teeth during speech. In this case, the patient wears a tongue cage retainer, constructed with metal bars to prevent, and eventually retrain, the tongue to move upwards instead of outwards during speech. Another common reason for retainer usage is bruxism, or the grinding of the teeth. Bruxism usually occurs during sleep and can be a serious problem since it not only wears down tooth surfaces, but may result in headaches or jaw pain (TMJ). Retainers prevent bruxism by keeping the mouth from clothing completely during sleep. Pros And Cons Of Retainers It is normal for patients wearing retainers to feel some pressure on their teeth and some possible soreness in their mouths. They may feel slight differences in articulation as well. These are rarely lasting problems. The majority of patients rapidly become almost unaware that they are wearing retainers. Because retainers can be removed, they present no difficulty in eating and do not limit the diet. They can also be cleaned easily and thoroughly. The most common problem with retainers is that, because they are so easily removed, they can be misplaced or even mistakenly thrown away.

  Link: Orthodontic Retainers