A centric relation splint is a horse-shoe shaped, hard acrylic appliance worn on the biting surfaces of the teeth (similar to athletic mouth guard) to prevent bruxism, muscle soreness, excessive wear of the teeth and joint pain [see TMJ Dysfunction].
Bruxism is an abnormal grinding or clenching of the teeth causing excessive wear of the teeth and joint and or muscle pain.
Commonly referred to as a "cap," a crown is a tooth shaped covering for a tooth that has been decayed, broken or otherwise compromised such as after Root Canal therapy. This covering is permanently cemented over all surfaces of the tooth to help prevent additional decay and to restore the full function of the tooth. A crown can be made of metal, porcelain or a combination thereof.
A bridge is a series of 2 or more crowns connected together. Usually a bridge spans the space where there is one or more missing teeth.
Root canal therapy is the removal of the pulp tissue, including the nerve, inside the root(s) of each tooth. The entire canal is cleaned and shape to provide access for the insertion of a biocompatible material that seals each root and keeps bacteria out.
Taking into account all the types and qualities of crowns and bridges made, the national average life time of a crown or bridge is 7-10 years. Your crown or bridge can last much longer if you practice good oral hygiene and nutrition, and you don't have any abnormal function such as bruxism.
Yes, bleaching or teeth whitening is safe. It does not remove the enamel from the teeth - only the surface stains and discoloration. The material is used to remove the discoloration is peroxide in a solution that holds the peroxide close to the surfaces of your teeth. This process often causes temporary sensitivity.
Everyone is not a candidate for teeth whitening. If you are interested, consult with your dentist.
Bacteria in the mouth can travel through the blood stream easily. The bacteria can collect around a leaky heart valve and cause an infection called bacterial endocarditis. Taking a somewhat large dose of antibiotics, one hour before dental treatment, can prevent this type of infection.
Antibiotics taken before a one hour before a dental procedure should be a different kind than the one you are already taking. This "loading" or large dose is intended specifically to fight or prevent bacteria from gathering around the leaky valve in your heart.
Radiographs, commonly referred to as x-rays, are required for a number of reasons. Radiographs are primarily used to diagnose bone loss, abscesses, cavities, tumors, cists and other oral cavity disease. The reason for the number of radiographs is due mainly to the size of each film. Each film only covers a specific area of your mouth. Therefore, usually 16 to 18 are required to adequately diagnose the condition of your mouth. This large number is taken about every three to five years depending on the patient's health history. Radiographs of the molar areas are generally taken once each year.
Deep cleaning is a procedure that is meant to clean the areas of the teeth at or below the gum line where there is plaque and tartar buildup. This build up contributes to the separation of the gum tissue from the roots of the teeth and causes "pocketing." This is what is commonly called, gum disease. Root planing [deep cleaning] is done while the patient is numb and smooths the roots of the teeth to allow for healing and the reattachment of the gums to the roots of the teeth.
The Sonicare toothbrush is the newest generation of electric toothbrushes. The brush uses movement and vibration (sonic waves) to "bubble" the paste between the teeth and to remove plaque and stain. Studies have shown that, with extended use, your teeth will stay cleaner and with less stain.
For those patients who have a habit of scrubbing or brushing their teeth too hard, and thereby cause their gums to recede, the Sonicare toothbrush eliminates the need for strong hand/arm movements with a traditional toothbrush. This scrubbing can lead to recession, root sensitivity, decay, gum disease and the eventual need for grafting that recovers the exposed areas of the roots of the teeth.
Each dental insurance provider makes a unique contract with your employer or the person(s) through whom you are insured. Although many contracts are similar in nature, only the contract itself contains the details of what is covered or not covered. If you have any questions about your dental coverage, they should be addressed to the insurance company first. There you will find the most accurate information.
Once you have a treatment plan given to you by your dentist, this treatment plan can be submitted to your insurance carrier for their evaluation and determination of potential payment. No payment may be guaranteed by dental office personnel. Dental office personnel can only provide your insurance carrier the information it needs to determine whether or not a claim will be paid. All claims are sent to your insurance carrier on the day of your visit to our office. All pre-authorizations are done at the request of the patient or the insured.
We will gladly find the answer to any dental question you may have. There is no stupid question and your anonymity is guaranteed!