To ensure a successful and informed treatment experience, it’s important to ask your dentist relevant questions before the placement of a dental crown. Here are the top questions to ask your dentist before crown placement.

Why Do I Need a Dental Crown?

Understanding the rationale behind the recommendation for a dental crown is essential. Ask your dentist about the specific reasons for crown placement, including the extent of tooth damage or decay and how a crown can address these issues.

Your dentist should provide a detailed explanation of how a crown will restore the strength and function of the affected tooth and enhance its aesthetic appearance [1].

Additionally, inquire about alternative treatments, if applicable, and weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks of choosing a dental crown over these other options.

What Is the Procedure Like?

Before undergoing dental crown placement, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the procedure itself.

Ask your dentist to explain the step-by-step process of crown placement, including tooth preparation, impressions, and the permanent crown fitting. Inquire about the materials typically used for dental crowns and discuss which option is most suitable for your specific case [2].

Understanding the procedure in advance can help alleviate anxiety, set expectations, and allow you to prepare for the treatment effectively.

What Can I Expect During and After Crown Placement?

Ask about what you can expect during and after the crown placement procedure. Ask your dentist about using local anesthesia or sedation to ensure a comfortable and pain-free treatment.

You can also ask about post-procedure discomfort, recovery time, and potential temporary modifications to your diet and oral hygiene routine. Understanding the recovery process and any temporary limitations can help you plan accordingly and ensure a smooth post treatment experience.

How Long Will the Crown Last, and What Maintenance is Required?

The longevity and expected maintenance of the dental crown are essential, so discuss these with your dentist before the procedure.

Inquire about the expected lifespan of the crown material and discuss any factors that may impact its durability, such as oral habits, hygiene, and potential complications. You should also understand the required maintenance, including oral care practices and the importance of regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of the crown and the underlying tooth.

Understanding the long-term expectations and care requirements of the dental crown can help you maintain its integrity and maximize its lifespan for a healthy and attractive smile. With the proper maintenance, dental crowns have the potential to last for many years [3].

Ask Your Dentist About Dental Crowns

Before dental crown placement, it’s important to communicate openly with your dentist and ask questions to clarify the procedure, your expectations, and care requirements. By seeking detailed information and discussing any concerns or questions you may have, you can approach the dental crown placement with confidence, ensuring a positive treatment outcome and long-term oral health.

Sources:
1. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/crowns
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5125852/
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S010956412100157

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With All-on-4, patients do not need an individual dental implant for every tooth, but they can still enjoy a secure smile restoration with a few dental implants and a natural-looking prosthesis.

If you are missing most or all of your natural teeth, you might wonder if you qualify for All on-4 dental implants. Here are the best candidates for this innovative procedure that helps patients restore their smiles.

Patients Missing an Entire Row or All of Their Natural Teeth

All-on-4 dental implants work best for patients who are missing an entire row of natural teeth or all of their natural teeth. If you are only missing a few upper or lower teeth, you may qualify for an implant-supported bridge, but not necessarily All-on-4 implants.

If you are missing all of your teeth or the entire upper or lower rows of teeth, your dentist will place four, five, or six implants in your jaw and fabricate a realistic-looking prosthesis to connect to these [1]. The prosthesis is not removable, except by your dentist, so it does allow for a secure and functional tooth restoration that differs from dentures.

For patients missing fewer teeth, individual dental implants may be a more appropriate treatment option.

Those With Good Oral Health

Patients seeking dental implant therapy must have good oral health to qualify for the procedure [2]. It doesn’t matter if you’re getting a single dental implant or All-on-4 implants—your smile needs to be healthy to reduce your risk of complications following the procedure.

This means any existing gum inflammation or tooth decay has been resolved before the procedure. Good oral health will allow you to heal properly, including soft tissue healing as well as the bone integration that needs to happen before your final prosthesis can be placed.

Addressing Bone Loss in the Jaw

There must be enough bone in the jaw for dental implants to successfully integrate with your existing jawbone to create a strong and secure restoration [3]. However, patients with insufficient existing bone to support the implants needed in All-on-4-type therapies can still get dental implants with a bone graft.

Bone grafting is a common procedure prior to placing dental implants. If you have been missing your natural teeth for several years, a bone graft will likely be necessary before implant placement. While this will create an additional step when getting your dental implants, it is well worth it to have a secure and functional alternative to dentures and experience the benefits of dental implants.

In addition, All-on-4 implant therapy does not require the extensive bone grafting that would otherwise be necessary when placing individual implants for every missing tooth, so the process generally takes less time and is more cost-efficient.

Ask Your Dentist About All-on-4 Dental Implants

If you are tired of dealing with dentures and want to restore your smile with dental implants, All-on-4 therapy may be an option for you. Find out if you qualify for All-on-4 dental implants by scheduling a consultation with your experienced prosthodontist today.

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4253293/
2. https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/characteristics-of-a-candidate-for-dental-
implants
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5601489/

The post Do I Qualify for All-on-4 Dental Implants? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

If you are considering dental implants, it’s important to understand the process of placing the implant and getting your final dental crowns. Here’s what you need to know about dental implants prior to crown placement.

Your Dental Implant Needs to Heal Before the Permanent Crown Placement

After the placement of the dental implant, there is a period of healing that is crucial for the success of the procedure. The bone needs time to fuse with the implant through a process called osseointegration, which typically takes several months [1].

During this time, the implant becomes firmly anchored in the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for your permanent dental crown. It’s essential to follow your dentist’s post- operative instructions and attend any follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and avoid any delays in getting your final crowns placed.

Every patient’s treatment timeline may differ based on their unique healing process and implant placement. Your dentist will evaluate your progress and determine when it is appropriate to proceed with the final crown placement.

You May Have Temporary Dental Crowns in the Meantime

During the healing period, your dentist may provide you with a temporary crown to cover the implant site.

This temporary crown will protect the implant and help you have a natural-looking smile while the permanent crown is being fabricated. However, it’s important to understand that these temporary crowns are not meant to function as permanent ones, so there will be restrictions for eating—such as avoiding chewing gum and sticky foods—with these crowns [2].

It’s essential to follow any care instructions for temporary crowns provided by your dentist to ensure they remain in place and do not cause any damage to the healing implant.

How Crowns Fasten to Implants

Once the implant fully integrates with the jawbone, it’s time for your final crown placement. Your dental crown will be custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural appearance [3].

Depending on your unique treatment, the crown is usually attached to the implant using an abutment, which connects the implant and the crown. The abutment is screwed onto the implant, and the crown is then attached to the abutment, creating a secure and long lasting restoration.

If you have an implant-supported bridge or all-on-four dental implants, your prosthesis placement will be a little different, but you will still have a secure final restoration where you can bite, chew, and smile without worry.

Ask Your Dentist About the Dental Implant Process

Dental crowns are part of what make dental implants a successful restorative procedure when you’re missing natural teeth. Find out more about what your dental implant and crown placement process will look like by scheduling a consultation with your experienced dentist today!

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3602536/
2. https://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177(21)00616-4/pdf
3. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/crowns

The post Dental Implants Prior to Crown Placement: What You Need to Know appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Since the implant part of this restoration replaces your tooth’s root, it takes a few months to heal. While this may seem like a long time, understanding the underlying reasons behind this healing period will help you take the best care of your smile.

So, why will your dental implant take months to heal, and why is this extended timeline essential for long-term success?

The Implant Must Fuse With Your Jawbone

The primary reason for the months-long healing period of dental implants is the process of osseointegration. Osseointegration is the natural integration of the implant with the surrounding bone. During this crucial phase, the implant fuses with the jawbone, forming a strong and stable foundation for the replacement tooth [1].

Without osseointegration, your dental implant would not heal properly or provide a secure and functional restoration. So, this process is critical for your dental implant to support a crown and withstand normal biting and chewing forces.

Healing of Soft Tissues

In addition to bone healing, the surrounding soft tissues, including periodontal (gum) tissue, also need time to heal. During the dental implant procedure, an incision is made in the gum tissue to access the jawbone. This incision needs to heal and form a tight seal around the implant to protect it from infection and provide an aesthetically pleasing result.

Prevention of Implant Failure

Allowing ample time for healing is crucial in minimizing the risk of implant failure [2]. Rushing the process can lead to complications such as a loose dental implant, implant rejection, and even infection.

A strong foundation is essential to support the pressures of biting and chewing, ensuring the long-term success and durability of the implant, so know that this healing time is helping you have a secure restoration for many years and potentially for life.

Individual Healing and Health Factors

It’s important to note that the healing process can vary from person to person. Each individual’s overall health, bone density, and oral hygiene practices can contribute to the length of the healing period.

Some patients may only have to wait three months before their final restoration can be placed, while others may need to wait six months [3]. Patients who have underlying health conditions or smoke may experience a longer healing time.

Don’t Worry—You’ll Have a Temporary Prosthesis

During the healing period, a temporary prosthesis, such as a dental bridge, crown, or removable denture, depending on your implant procedure, will be placed to restore function and aesthetics.

These temporary solutions allow patients to eat and speak comfortably while their implants undergo the necessary healing process. This means you won’t have to worry about having a gap in your teeth or not being able to chew and smile while you’re waiting for your dental implant to heal.

Look and Feel Your Best With Dental Implants

Though the waiting period for dental implant healing might seem long, it’s a critical phase in ensuring the long-term success of your dental implant. Patience and following your dentist’s post-operative care instructions will help facilitate a successful and lasting outcome for your dental implant. Remember, the months spent in healing will be well worth the beautiful, functional, and natural-looking smile you’ll enjoy for years to come!

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3602536/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5702435/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24066316/

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When getting dental crowns, you may be wondering if these tooth replacements will match your natural teeth and look natural. Is it possible for dental crowns to look just like your natural teeth? Here is what you need to know about these sturdy tooth replacements.

Dental Crowns Are Custom-Made to Look Just Like Your Natural Teeth

There are several ways to fabricate dental crowns, but what all of them have in common is that they are custom-made for your unique smile. This means that your dental crown will not only be the same shape and size as your natural teeth but also the same color and translucency.

Most dental crowns are made from porcelain ceramic. This durable material allows your dentist to account for more nuances in the natural color and translucency of your teeth than metal- ceramic crowns [1]. The result is even more natural when you choose a dentist who makes dental crowns at an in-house lab with experienced technicians.

When your procedure is done, the dental crown should not look any different from the rest of your teeth, allowing you to smile with confidence.

Getting the Best Fit to Ensure a Natural Smile

Dental crowns will function like natural teeth, helping you to easily bite, chew, speak, and smile. Therefore, the best fit is crucial to supporting the health and comfort of your smile and appearance.

Your dentist will take proper planning measures to ensure the crown will fit properly when  the time comes. They will take impressions and X-rays to ensure the placement is correct. Your dental crown may require some adjustments after it is placed, but with proper measuring and crown fabrication, these should be minimal.

Since improperly fitting crowns can impact both the health and appearance of your smile, this planning process is imperative to your dental crown’s success [2].

Ensuring Proper Color and Shading for a Flawless Smile

Your dental crown will be properly stained or shaded to match your other teeth, making it indiscernible from your other teeth. Some dentists use a staining technique, while others use internal shading to allow a more natural color and transparency for a restoration that looks truly genuine.

Before placing your permanent dental crown, your dentist will ensure it matches the rest of your teeth. Thanks to the custom fabrication of dental crowns and the careful shading or staining process, the crown will not look opaque or fake in your mouth [3].

Let Dental Crowns Enhance Your Smile

Dental crowns can help you repair and restore damaged or missing teeth and have a durable, natural-looking smile you can be proud of. With an experienced dentist, high-quality materials, and a custom fabrication process, your dental crown will enhance your smile and accurately match your natural teeth!

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7051824/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4541334/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14620121/

The post Can Dental Crowns Look Like My Natural Teeth? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

However, dental implants can occasionally experience complications or failures like any medical procedure. Dental implant failure is rare, occurring in only a small percentage of cases. When it does happen, it can be attributed to various factors.

If you have a failing dental implant, you may be wondering if it can be fixed or if it needs to be removed entirely. Here, we explore the reasons behind implant failure and the potential options for repairing a dental implant.

If Your Implant Was Not Properly Placed

Proper placement is crucial for the success of dental implants [1].

Since the implant essentially replaces your tooth’s root, it must be positioned properly to avoid affecting the neighboring teeth. In addition, the dental crown on the end of the implant needs to be well-fitted to your unique bite to support the forces of biting and chewing so the implant will not cause pain or discomfort.

If the position of the implant and crown are not correct, the implant may eventually fail, becoming loose, causing pain or discomfort, swelling, or redness and discoloration around the implant site.

When Your Implant Doesn’t Heal Properly

There are many reasons a dental implant may not heal properly.

The implant may have been improperly placed, making proper healing and bone integration impossible. You may have started eating foods that are hard to chew too soon, leading to too much pressure on the implant too soon.

Some patients may also have not had enough bone to support the implant in the first place, which can lead to poor osseointegration and a failed implant.

An implant may also fail due to peri-implantitis, an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the implant [2]. Peri-implantitis can result from poor oral hygiene, smoking, or a preexisting periodontal disease.

If You Need a Bone Graft

About 50% of patients seeking dental implants will need a bone graft before the procedure [3]. This is because when a person loses a natural tooth, the body naturally gets rid of the bone that held the tooth in place, and most of this bone loss happens within the first few months after losing a tooth.

Without a bone graft, there may not be enough bone in the jaw to properly support the implant. If the implant was placed without enough bone to support it, it may fail. However, it is also possible to lose bone over time from gum disease or arthritis, and a bone graft may be needed post-procedure to save the implant.

If You Need Treatment for Gum Disease

Patients with dental implants who develop gum disease may experience implant failure [4]. Gum disease can cause gum recession and bone loss, leading to a grayish appearance as the implant shows through the gum tissue and the appearance of longer-looking teeth.

Without treatment for gum disease, a dental implant can fail. Keeping your regular dental appointments can help ensure your smile is healthy and catch gum disease early to minimize necessary treatment and restore the health of the implant.

What to Do If You Believe Your Implant Is Failing

When faced with a failing dental implant, the first step is to consult your implant dentist or oral surgeon. They will examine your implant and conduct a thorough assessment to determine the cause of the failure.

In some cases, addressing the underlying issue can save the implant and prevent further complications. However, sometimes, the failing dental implant may need to be removed and replaced.

It is crucial to work with an experienced implant dentist or oral surgeon who can guide you through the process and ensure the best outcome. They will consider factors such as bone loss, overall oral health, and your specific needs to develop a treatment plan that maximizes the chances of success.

Are You Seeing Signs of a Failed Dental Implant?

While dental implant failure is rare, it can happen due to various factors. It is important to seek professional advice from a qualified dental professional to determine the best course of action. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare, a failing dental implant can be fixed or replaced, allowing you to regain a functional and beautiful smile.

Sources:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9967359/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3612185/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4819798/
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21635280/

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TMJ and bruxism are not the same thing. So how are they different? Here, we explore the causes, symptoms, and treatments of both bruxism and TMJ to help you differentiate between the two.

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding or clenching, refers to the habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth [1].

Teeth grinding often occurs unconsciously during sleep, but it can also happen during waking hours. Bruxism can have various causes, including stress and anxiety, an abnormal bite, misaligned teeth, or certain medications or stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine [2].

The most common symptom of bruxism is tooth damage. People who grind their teeth may experience worn, flattened, chipped, cracked, and even loose teeth. However, people may also experience jaw soreness, headaches, and facial pain. In severe cases, it may contribute to temporomandibular joint disorder [3].

Treatment for Bruxism

For some patients, an underlying cause of bruxism can be identified, such as emotional stress, overuse of stimulants, a certain medication, or a problem with the jaw or teeth alignment. In such cases, treating the underlying cause is necessary to help improve the condition.

However, dentists typically recommend a nightguard while sleeping to protect the teeth and alleviate the pressure caused by teeth grinding. Mouthguards can be used while additional treatments are underway to prevent further damage to the teeth and reduce the symptoms of bruxism.

What Is TMJ?

TMJ disorders are a group of conditions that affect the joints connecting the jawbone to the skull, causing pain and dysfunction [4].

These disorders can have multiple causes, including injury to the jaw, arthritis, jaw misalignment, excessive teeth grinding, stress, or jaw clenching. It’s important to note that bruxism can lead to TMJ disorder, but not everyone with bruxism will develop TMJ.

The symptoms of TMJ disorder can vary and may include jaw pain or tenderness, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint, locking of the jaw joint, headaches, earaches, and facial pain. Some individuals may also experience limited jaw movement or stiffness.

Treatment for TMJ Disorders

For TMJ disorders, an underlying cause may be found, such as a misaligned jaw or teeth, excessively chewing gum, or arthritis. Addressing any underlying causes can lead to long term improvements in TMJ symptoms.

For some patients, management may be necessary if an underlying cause cannot be found. Management may include applying heat or cold packs to the affected area, avoiding hard or chewy foods, reducing stress, and physical therapy [5].

In severe cases, a dentist may suggest more advanced treatment methods, such as trigger point injection therapy, orthodontics, or jaw surgery.

Do You Suffer From Bruxism or TMJ?

So while bruxism and TMJ disorder are both conditions that involve the jaw and can have overlapping symptoms, they are not the same thing. If you’re experiencing bruxism or TMJ symptoms, it is best to consult a dental professional to receive an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. Early intervention can help alleviate pain and prevent further complications down the line!

Sources:
1. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/bruxism
2. https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/teeth-grinding.html
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5490738/
4. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tmd
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2813497/

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Whether you’re preparing to get your first crown or replacing an existing one, understanding the dental crown procedure and what to expect during and after can help alleviate any concerns or uncertainties.

Let’s review the process for dental crowns, from consultation to recovery, so you can feel well-informed and confident about your dental crown treatment.

Consultation and Treatment Planning

Before the dental crown procedure, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination and discuss treatment options. They will evaluate the condition of your tooth, taking into consideration factors such as the extent of damage, your oral health, and your personal preferences. Together, you and your dentist will determine if a dental crown is the best  course of action. If so, your dentist will explain the procedure steps, including the benefits and potential risks.

Preparing the Tooth

To ensure a proper fit, your dentist will prepare your tooth to accommodate the dental crown [1]. The preparation process involves removing a small amount of enamel from the affected tooth’s surface, creating space for the crown to fit comfortably. The dentist will numb the area with local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort during this process.

Impressions and Temporary Crown

Once your tooth is prepared, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth. Many impressions are done digitally to increase shape and fit accuracy [2]. These impressions are used as a mold to create a custom-made crown that matches the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. While your permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental laboratory, a temporary crown will be placed to protect the prepared tooth and maintain your appearance.

Crown Placement

Once your permanent crown is ready, typically within a couple of weeks, you will return to your dentist for the final crown placement. The temporary crown will be removed, and your dentist will carefully check the fit and appearance of the permanent crown. Once the ideal fit is determined, the crown will be permanently cemented onto your prepared tooth. Your dentist will ensure your bite is even and comfortable before you leave the office.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

After the dental crown procedure, it’s normal to experience some sensitivity or discomfort around the treated tooth. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate any discomfort.

Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods initially, as the cement used to secure the crown needs time to fully set. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for routine check-ups.

Long-Term Expectations and Maintenance

Dental crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting. However, it’s important to remember that they are not immune to normal wear and tear. Proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, is crucial to maintain the health and longevity of your crown [3]. Additionally, avoid chewing on excessively hard objects or using your teeth as tools to prevent cracking or damaging the crown.

Ready for Your Dental Crown Procedure?

Understanding the dental crown procedure and what to expect during and after can help ease any anxiety and ensure a smooth and successful treatment. From consultation and tooth preparation to crown placement and post-procedure care, following your dentist’s instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene will help you enjoy the benefits of your dental crown for years to come!

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7866943/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7745068/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19744201/

The post What to Expect During and After Your Dental Crown Procedure appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Some patients may have gum tissue that covers too much of all their teeth, or a select few teeth may be affected, giving the patient an uneven smile line. Fortunately, there are multiple treatments available for gummy smile.

Will you need surgery to correct your gummy smile? Surgery is not always indicated—here are a few treatments you may qualify for depending on your unique smile.

When Surgery Is Necessary

During surgery for gummy smile, the gum tissue is gently reshaped to correct the smile line and expose more of the teeth. Periodontal surgery may be done with a laser, which can minimize any discomfort after the procedure [1].

Surgery is generally necessary when the patient does not have other factors causing their excessive gingival display, such as overactive upper lip muscles or a misaligned bite or teeth. In cases such as these, treatments such as orthodontics or Botox injections would not resolve the problem.

A gingivectomy is the most common surgical procedure used for gummy smile. A gingivectomy can be done manually or with a laser to remove excess gum tissue and expose more of the tooth. However, some patients may need to have surgery to correct the position of their upper lip, which can also cause gummy smile [2].

Gum surgery is a safe procedure that can help reveal your true smile and remove excessive gum tissue to improve your self-confidence.

Other Treatments for Gummy Smile

Not every patient will need surgery to improve their gummy smile. Patients may also qualify for treatments such as:

• Crowns or veneers to change the appearance of teeth
• Botox injections to treat lip muscles that can cause excessive gingival display
• Orthodontic treatment to fix crooked or crowded teeth that may cause gummy smile

Some patients may need a combination of treatments to fully resolve excessive gingival display [3]. For example, surgery may be necessary along with orthodontic treatment, or a patient may opt for veneers and Botox injections.

The treatment you need will depend on the potential causes of the excessive gum tissue. Your dentist will explore all your options with you to determine which would be the best fit based on your smile goals, budget, and preferences.

Find Out Your Treatment Options for Gummy Smile

Do you have a gummy smile? If so, there are several treatment options available to help you have the smile you’ve always wanted. Contact a dentist experienced in treating patients with excessive gingival display to discover your treatment options and fall in love with your smile!

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4672859/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4158599/
3. https://meridian.allenpress.com/angle-orthodontist/article/82/1/170/181241/Gummy-
smile-and-facial-profile-correction-using

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The following are problems people often have with their smile and can be fixed, sometimes in as little as one appointment. Here are a few common complaints and how dentists go about treating them.

Dull Teeth

No matter what you eat or drink, teeth will naturally darken with age. Those who drink a lot of coffee, tea, or red wine are at higher risk of teeth staining, as are those who smoke or have poor oral health.

However, teeth whitening is one of the simplest dental procedures with the most noticeable results and can be done in a single appointment [1]. This in-office procedure allows your dentist to whiten your teeth to your preferred shade, whether you want a subtle whitening or a dramatic, ultra-white smile. Dull or discolored teeth allow you to have the smile of your dreams and not be embarrassed by stains or uneven color.

Old Dental Restorations

Dental restorations such as crowns, fillings, bridges, veneers, and dental implants are meant to enhance your smile. However, dental restorations may begin to look less than stellar over time. Fillings, crowns, bridges, and veneers all need to be replaced eventually, so if you have old dental restorations, it may be worth fixing them.

Over time, fillings can shrink and crack, crowns or bridges may develop dark areas around them, and veneers may begin to pull away from teeth [2]. And although dental implants should last for many years, a failing implant may look unsightly in the mouth, with the abutment connecting the dental crown to the implant showing.

Replacing your old dental restorations as needed helps ensure your smile looks bright, natural, and beautiful!

Missing Teeth

If you are missing a tooth or teeth, replacing it is essential, and not just for aesthetics. A single missing tooth can cause your teeth to shift because the body will naturally get rid of the bone that held the tooth in place over time, which can cause crooked or gapped teeth, an improper bite, and even a sunken facial appearance [3].

There are many options for replacing a single tooth or multiple missing teeth. Dental implants are an excellent choice, but you may also have the option of veneers, bridges, and dentures.

You don’t have to live with the consequences of missing teeth!

Worn-Down Teeth

Worn-down teeth can dramatically alter your smile, making your teeth look shorter or fit together differently. Worn-down teeth can happen from bruxism (teeth grinding) or from improper use of the teeth, such as from chewing on ice or pencils.

Teeth that have been worn down can also cause tooth sensitivity and discoloration in addition to their aesthetic challenges. Dental veneers and crowns can help patients with worn-down teeth restore their smiles so they can look and feel their best [4].

Uneven Gum Tissue

Irregularly shaped gum tissue can happen for various reasons, most of which can be corrected. Whether you are dealing with uneven gum tissue—in which the gums go too far over some teeth but not others—or a “gummy” smile, in which the gums cover too much of all the teeth, treatment is available.

Treatment for uneven gums may include laser therapy, correcting the issue causing the irregular tissue, such as crooked teeth or a misplaced dental restoration, or gingival contouring [5].

Don’t Wait to Get the Smile of Your Dreams

Whether you’re worried about dull or discolored teeth, gummy smile, missing teeth, or worn-down teeth, treatment is available, so don’t wait to get the smile of your dreams. Contact your experienced dentist today to schedule a consultation for improving your smile!

Sources:
1. https://www.ada.org/en/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-
health-topics/whitening
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4663659/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15850992/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9404995/
5. https://jrdms.dentaliau.ac.ir/article-1-368-en.html

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