1.
Are there any alternatives to dentures?
Dentures are no longer the only way to restore a mouth that has little
or no non-restorable teeth. Strategically placed support, or implants,
can now be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating
the need for a denture. The cost tends to be greater, but the implants
and bridges more closely resemble the "feel" of real teeth.
Dental implants are becoming the alternative of choice to dentures,
but not everyone is a candidate for implants. Call your dentist for
advice.
2. Are silver fillings, fluoride,
x-rays, a danger to my health? What are the alternatives?
Dental amalgam, or silver filling material, is a mixture of mercury,
and an alloy of silver, tin and copper. The release of mercury in
silver fillings is so small that it is much less than what patients
are exposed to in food, air and water. There are, however, other materials
that can be used for restorations. These include gold, porcelain,
and composite resins. These materials are more costly than amalgam
and, with the exception of gold, are not as durable.
Fluoride is a compound of the element fluorine, which is found universally
throughout nature in water, soil, air and in most foods. Fluoride
is absorbed easily into the tooth enamel, especially in children's
growing teeth. Once teeth are developed, fluoride makes the entire
tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization,
which aids in repairing early decay before the damage is visible.
Radiographs, or x-rays, help your dentist determine the presence or
degree of periodontal disease, abscesses, and many abnormal growths
such as cysts and tumors. They can help pinpoint the location of cavities
and other signs of disease that may not be possible to detect through
a visual examination. All health care providers are sensitive to patients'
concerns about exposure to radiation. Your dentist has been trained
to prescribe radiographs when they are appropriate and to tailor the
radiograph schedule to your individual needs. By using state-of-the-art
technology, such as digital radiography, and by staying knowledgeable
about recent advances, your dentist knows which techniques, procedures
and X-ray films can minimize your exposure to radiation.
3. What are dental implants and
how do they work?
Dental implants are substitutes for natural tooth roots and
rely on the jawbone for support. Strategically placed, implants can
now be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the
need for a denture. The cost tends to be greater, but the implants
and bridges more closely resemble real teeth.
4. What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure done to save the damaged or dead pulp
in the root canal of the tooth by cleaning out the diseased pulp and
reshaping the canal. The canal is filled with gutta percha, a rubberlike
material, to prevent recontamination of the tooth. The tooth is then
permanently sealed with possibly a post and/or a gold or porcelain
crown. This enables patients to keep the original tooth.
5. When is the best time to remove
wisdom teeth?
When the removal of wisdom teeth is determined necessary, it is best
done when the roots are approximately formed, or three-fourths developed,
usually in the adolescent years. Removal at this time allows for an
easier procedure and decreases the risk of damage to the nerves in
that area.
6. What is the difference between
a cap and a crown?
There is no difference between a cap and a crown.
7. How long do crowns last?
Crowns should last approximately 5-8 years. However, with good oral
hygiene and supervision most crowns will last for a much longer period
of time. Some damaging habits like grinding your teeth, chewing ice,
or fingernail biting may cause this period of time to decrease significantly.
