Monthly Archives: May 2013

What Should I Look for in an Implant Dentist?

If you are considering dental implants, one of the most important decisions you can make is which dental implant dentist to use. There are several things to keep in mind as you look for just the right person to help you regain your missing teeth. The right dentist can help ensure a successful procedure and long-term satisfaction with your implants.

Implant Dentistry Consultation

Your quest for dental implants should begin with a consultation with a dental implant dentist. You might even consult with more than one to be sure you’re comfortable with the recommended procedure as well as the dentist himself. As you speak to your dentist, there are several things to keep in mind.

  • Am I comfortable with this dentist?
  • Does the dentist answer all my questions?
  • Have I been referred to this dentist by satisfied patients?
  • Does the dentist have a before and after book or online gallery so I can see his previous work?

If you feel comfortable with the dentist, know people who have been happy with his past work, and feel you have gotten satisfactory answers to all of your questions, chances are that you will work well with this dentist.

Deciding on Dental Implants

If you are considering tooth replacement, dental implants are one of your best choices. They will last for many years and do not have to be refitted periodically like dentures. They also remain in your mouth permanently and do not shift or fall out at inconvenient times. The root of the implant is embedded directly in the jawbone, and so stimulates bone growth whenever you chew. This will keep your jaw healthy and prevent your face from changing shape over time, as can happen with long-term denture wearers.

During your consultation, you’ll also determine if you have any concerns or any health conditions that might interfere with your ability to successfully recover from an implant procedure. Be sure to ask any questions you might have, and in the end you are likely to be very pleased with your new teeth.

Contact the office of Dr. Bernard Jin to schedule a dental implant consultation today.

Why Choose a Veneer Instead of a Replacement Crown?

Veneers are a popular choice for cosmetic work on the front teeth. In many cases, they are an excellent alternative to a crown, particularly if the tooth is not severely damaged or has not undergone a root canal. For situations where damage is minor, or where treatment is meant to correct severe discoloration, a veneer is a much better choice.

Veneers vs. Crowns—What is the Difference?

There is a big difference between veneers and dental crowns. The major contrast is between the procedures used to place the restorations. A crown requires significant restructuring of the tooth, while a veneer requires very little modification. A veneer also looks much more natural; because the thin porcelain reflects light much like your natural enamel. A crown, even a natural-colored crown, tends to be more opaque, and does not always look like natural enamel.

Because a veneer is so much less invasive, many cosmetic dentists recommend this treatment over a crown for a number of cosmetic applications. A consultation with your cosmetic dentist will help you decide which treatment is most appropriate for your needs. [pullquote]There is a big difference between veneers and dental crowns. The major contrast is between the procedures used to place the restorations.[/pullquote]

Uses for Veneers and Crowns

Veneers are used for a number of different cosmetic dentistry applications. These include treating:

•    Cracked teeth
•    Pitted tooth surfaces
•    Severe or intrinsic staining
•    Small gaps between the teeth
•    Minor misalignment

Although crowns were once used regularly for similar treatments, they are more often reserved now for more serious issues such as:

•    Anchoring a bridge for tooth replacement
•    Repairing severely damaged teeth
•    Repairing cracked teeth that have already received fillings
•    Treating a tooth after a root canal procedure

Both these procedures require a two-step process. First, the tooth is restructured as necessary and molds are made of the teeth. The veneer or crown is then constructed at an off-site lab and temporary restorations protect the teeth during this period, which usually only takes a few days. At the second office visit, the permanent veneer or crown is placed.

Contact the doctor Family Dentistry and find out which option is best for you and your smile.

How Do I Choose a Dental Implant Specialist?

If you are planning to have dental implants, one of the most important decisions you can make is your choice of implant dentist. Be sure you know what questions to ask and how to determine which dentist you’ll be most comfortable with. Choosing the right dentist will help ensure you get the best possible results from your implant surgery.

How to Choose a Dental Implant Specialist

As with any major surgical procedure, your dental implant procedure will begin with a consultation with your implant dentist. You’ll discuss your goals for your surgery, and the dentist will evaluate your eligibility for the procedure and any issues that might affect your healing or the long-term success of your implants.

During this consultation, be sure to ask any questions you might have about the procedure. Your dentist will want to know if you have any conditions or are taking any medications that could make it harder for you to heal after your procedure, or that could cause other problems, such as some medications to treat osteoporosis. Be sure you feel comfortable with the dentist, and that he answers all your questions clearly. Also ask to look at before and after pictures of the dentist’s work, and speak to previous clients if at all possible. A referral from a friend who has already had implants is invaluable.

Determining Your Eligibility for Implants

There are some conditions that can affect your eligibility for dental implants. In some cases, your implant dentist can help you determine an alternative treatment that can overcome these problems. In other cases, you might discover implants are not the best choice for you. Your dentist should be up front with you about these issues.

Some conditions that can affect your eligibility for implants include:

•    A history of smoking
•    Gum disease
•    Lack of bone mass in the jaw
•    Diabetes
•    Immune system disorder
•    Some medications

If any of these problems are applicable, consult with your dentist to determine if implants are still appropriate. Some treatments, such as bone grafting or pre-surgical treatment for gum disease, can enable your implant procedure to move forward successfully.

Contact our skilled and experienced dental team to learn more about any of our procedures by calling our office to schedule an appointment today.