A tooth extraction refers to the procedure of removing a tooth from its socket.
Procedure On Removing A Tooth First, a local anesthetic is applied to make the procedure more comfortable. In some cases your dentist will elect to use nitrous oxide gas in addition to the anesthetic. A dental instrument called an elevator is used to wiggle the tooth in its socket. After the tooth is loosened it is removed using forceps.
Extraction’s Possible Complications Like most other procedures, tooth extraction is not free of possible complications. You should be aware that there is a slight chance of infection, tenderness, prolonged bleeding, dry socket and loosening of neighboring teeth or their fillings or crowns.
Another rare possibility is of an upper tooth getting displaced into the sinus. Lastly, jaw fracture and temporary or permanent numbness is also very rare possibilities.
Importance Of Replacing The Missing Tooth You need to be aware of the importance of replacing this missing tooth. Why? Once a tooth is removed, the space createded by the missing tooth will allow the surrounding teeth to shift into that space. This shift could cause a misalignment in your mouth that can result in chewing or jaw-joint problems. These shifted teeth are harder to clean, making them more susceptible to gum disease, decay or even additional tooth loss.For these reasons, it’s important to replace the tooth with a dental appliance such as a bridge, a removable partial denture or an implant.
Pulling A Repairable Tooth In some instances you may be considering the option of pulling a tooth rather than simply repairing it. While it may be less expensive in the short run, in the long run it may cost you more. As you just heard, once a tooth is pulled you still need to fill the space with a dental appliance to avoid future complications. If you add the cost of extraction plus the replacement of the tooth, you may simply be better off repairing it.
Physicians have relied on computerized axial tomography scans (CAT) for many years. CAT scans are an X-ray procedure that uses many different X-ray images with the help of computers to generate cross-sectional or even three dimensional (3D) views of internal organs and structures within the body. A knee replacement surgery, for example, would never be performed without first examining 3D imaging.
More recently however, new technology has been developed that provides 3D imaging at a greatly reduced radiation exposure and cost compared to medical CAT scans. This technology is called Cone Beam CT and dentists have begun to rely on these 3D imaging techniques to provide them with a detailed view of the mouth and skull. The advantage that 3D imaging holds over regular dental x-rays is that bone structure, bone density, tissues, and nerves can be viewed clearly.
Cone Beam CT scans can be completed in less than half a minute. This means that far less radiation enters the body than if a regular set of bitewing X-rays were taken. The main use for CT scans is as an aid to plan dental implant treatment and other oral surgery.
CT scans and Dental implants
Dental implants are the most sophisticated replacement for missing teeth, but have historically proven to be time-consuming to place. CT scans vastly reduce the time it takes to place implants due to the ability of the dentist to see the anatomy of the implant site before any surgery is done and to plan accordingly.
How does the CT scan help our Staff?
It allows our staff to:
Visualize internal anatomy that can not be diagnosed externally
Plan treatment and surgery, including Implants
Prepare necessary aids
Assess risk and possible pathology and disease
Analyze the position and orientation of critical structures, like nerves, teeth roots, previous implants, the sinuses and nose, and airway passages
How are Cone Beam CT scans used?
CT scans are advantageous because they allow the dentist to magnify specific areas of the face. In addition, the dentist can easily view cross-sectional “slices” of the jaw, which makes planning treatment easier and faster.
Here are some of the main ways in which CT scans are used in dentistry:
Assess the quality of the jawbone where the implant will be placed.
Determine where nerves are located.
Diagnose tumors and disease in the early stages.
Measure the density of the jawbone where the implant will be placed.
Pinpoint the most effective placement for implants, including the angle of best fit.
Plan the complete surgical procedure in advance, from start to finish.
Precisely decide on the appropriate size and type of implants.
View exact orientation and position of each tooth.
View impacted teeth.
How are Cone Beam CT scans performed?
CT scans are quick and simple to perform. A Cone Beam Imaging System is at the heart of the scanner. During the scan, the patient stands or sits stationary on a designated seat. The cone beams are used to take literally hundreds of pictures of the face. These pictures are used to compile an exact 3D image of the inner mechanisms of the face and jaw. The dentist is able to zoom in on specific areas and view them from alternate angles.
Additionally, the scanner provides an open environment, meaning that claustrophobic feelings associated with medical CT scanners are eliminated. The cone beam CT scan is an incredible tool that is minimizing the cost of dental treatment, reducing treatment time and enhancing the end results of dental surgery.
Is it painful?
No, the Galileos CBCT scan process is completely painless.
Why a CBCT scanner rather than a regular Medical CT scanner?
X-Ray Radiation exposure to the patient is up 10 times less than a regular CT scanner.
Much faster scan time. Scan on a CBCT takes between 10-40 sec, while on a regular CT scanner it takes a few minutes.
Cheaper, average price of a CBCT scan could be up to 50% less than a regular MDCT scan.
What are the benefits versus risk?
Benefits
Unlike regular x-rays CT scans can discriminate between many types of tissue including bone, teeth, nerves and soft tissue.
CT scans are noninvasive, and can eliminate the need for exploratory surgery in some cases.
CT can identify the effects of conditions such as infection and tumors.
A cost effective tool for imaging a wide range of clinical problems.
Risks In a dosimetry study conducted by Dr. Ludlow (2007) of the University of South Carolina the Sirona Galileos has the lowest radiation dose of any cone beam machine on the market. One scan is compared to about 8 days of normal background radiation. This doesn’t even mean 8 days exposed in the sun but only 8 days of normal radiation by simply living on the planet earth. As a comparison, a full mouth series of x-rays taken in a dental office using old technology x-ray films (not digital x-rays) is equivalent to 47 days of background radiation. As with all imaging modalities that use ionizing radiation, the use of CBCT does involve a consideration of risk to the patient. However, it has the benefit of providing useful information needed to assist in making a diagnosis and/or in facilitating treatment. When your doctor refers you for an x-ray examination, he has made the determination that the benefit outweighs the risk. Of course, it is ultimately up to you to decide whether to undergo the examination. Bear in mind that the risk of most x-ray examinations are much less than other risks we commonly accept in daily life.
Dental Home Care No treatment will be effective unless you follow it up with routine and proper home care. This means you should brush and floss regularly after every meal and at a minimum twice a day. The key is not only to do it regularly but also to do it right. Here’s how.
Flossing To properly floss you should wind the floss around both of your index fingers and push it between each of your teeth in your mouth. Make sure to freely move the floss upwards, downwards and even sideways to remove any food particles or plaque that may be lodged between your teeth or under the gums.
Brushing Many people these days use an electric toothbrush such as a Sonicare. Whether you use an electric or still prefer a manual brush you should hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth. Gently but thoroughly rotate the bristles across your teeth and under your gums with a backward and forward motion. Be sure to also get the top surfaces of your teeth where you bite or chew on food. Your tongue can also be cleaned with your toothbrush, which will help reduce bad breath. Lastly it is important to brush the inside surfaces of your teeth with the same rotating motion.
When brushing, it is important to use toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride helps harden the outer layer of the tooth, called enamel, which will prevent cavities and also reduce bacteria in the mouth. It can also reverse the formation of smaller cavities.
Lastly, antibacterial rinses can also help reduce bacteria in the mouth. Please check with your dentist or dental hygienist if you have any additional questions about dental hygiene.
Looking for professional teeth whitening dentist in Elma? We are here for providing you the best teeth whitening treatment by our professional cosmetic dentist in Elma.
A brilliant, attractive smile conveys confidence and vitality. As we age, our teeth naturally darken. One of the most popular ways to enhance your smile and improve your appearance is teeth whitening. Patients can visit the dentist at lunch and leave with a stunning, white smile.
With teeth whitening, we can bleach the enamel to remove discolorations and stains from teeth. Research and clinical studies show that under the supervision of your dentist, chair-side teeth whitening with carbamide peroxide and/or hydrogen peroxide is safe for both teeth and gums. You can choose from in-office whitening, like Zoom!, for an immediate transformation or take-home kits, which will gradually brighten your smile over a few weeks.
Why Teeth Stain Tooth stains fall into two categories – extrinsic and intrinsic stains. The extrinsic, or external, stains only impact the surface of the teeth. Intrinsic stains are present inside the teeth and are harder to remove than extrinsic stains. Usually, extrinsic stains look yellow or brown, while internal stains are typically gray or blue in color.
You can develop teeth staining from a variety of causes including:
Beverages such as coffee, teas, and colas
Aging
Medication (antibiotic) staining
Trauma
Disease
Genetics
Tobacco
Excessive fluoride
Insufficient oral hygiene
Nerve degeneration
Taking the First Step During your initial visit, our dentist will examine your teeth and gums. At that time, the doctor will explain the recommendations and discuss your options. If you choose to begin immediately, you can relax and listen to music while we remove stains and transform your smile from blah to brilliant.
If you have any questions or if you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss your teeth whitening options, contact us today or call our Elma dental office at 716-668-8101.
FAQs about Teeth Whitening
What are my options for teeth whitening? With teeth whitening, patients can choose either in-office or at-home whitening. For in-office whitening, such as Zoom!, we cover your lips and gums before applying a thin coating of gel on your teeth. Then the paste is activated with a special ultraviolet light. In one appointment, you can leave with a brilliant new smile.
For at-home whitening, we will take molds of your teeth and supply you with custom molds as well as professional grade whitening solution. Simply apply a thin layer of gel to the trays and wear them as directed each day. Most patients notice a difference in 10 to 14 days, and the full impact will appear at the end of the whitening time period.
Does teeth whitening work? Professional teeth whitening can safely and effectively remove surface stains and renew your smile. Products like Zoom! Whitening and BriteSmile can lighten your teeth 10 to 12 shades in no time. Good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and avoidance of products that stain will keep your smile looking fantastic.
What is the difference between professional teeth whitening and the kits I can by from the drug store? Drug store whitening kits don’t have the strength that professional grade whitening provides, so many times, patients won’t achieve the results they desire. As well, these whitening kits often irritate gums and soft tissue because they aren’t customized to fit your mouth.
What if teeth whitening won’t work? In some cases, especially where deep intrinsic stains exist, teeth whitening may not be the best option. We will review your case and can recommend other alternatives, like porcelain veneers or cosmetic crowns, if teeth whitening doesn’t fit your situation.
Is teeth whitening safe? Many dentists consider teeth bleaching the safest cosmetic procedure available today. With careful supervision, you can lighten your teeth up to 10 shades and take years off your appearance.
What about side effects? Some patients develop mild sensitivity after whitening. Time and toothpaste that alleviates this sensation will help minimize any discomfort you feel.
When you look and feel your best, people notice the difference. Modern cosmetic dentistry can totally transform your smile if you want to change your image. If you are considering more than one procedure, you may want a smile makeover, a comprehensive combination of cosmetic dental procedures intended to enhance your smile’s beauty and appearance. The makeover will focus on correcting various problems, including broken, chipped, crooked, missing, or discolored teeth.
The Esthetics of a Smile With a smile makeover, your dentist can also fix uneven, unsightly gums. The makeover process can also dramatically change the length, width, color, and shape of your teeth to produce a uniform, vibrant appearance. Your dentist will talk with you about whether you want a more feminine look, a more attractive smile line, or whiter teeth. A smile makeover, however, is not just cosmetic in approach. During the evaluation, your dentist will also check for functional problems such as a bad bite or malocclusion.
Benefits of Making Over Your Smile The advantages of having a smile makeover include:
Consistency. Having multiple cosmetic procedures preformed by the same dentist, will help you avoid variances and differences that can occur when several dentists with different techniques and materials perform the same procedures over a longer period of time.
Minimizing Office Visits. With a comprehensive smile makeover, the dentist can group the cosmetic procedures in a more efficient manner so as to save you time and minimize office visits.
Saving Money. Because a smile makeover is intended provide a comprehensive solution, patients can avoid redundant dental procedures.
FAQs about Smile Makeovers
I want to change my smile. What do you suggest for a smile makeover? No two people are exactly alike, and no two smiles are completely the same. To start the smile makeover process, the first thing you need is a consultation appointment. At this visit, the dentist will listen to your ideas, show examples of possible changes, examine your mouth, and craft a custom plan to update your smile.
Won’t a smile makeover cost a lot of money? Every case is different. Until you meet with a dentist, it’s hard to estimate price. However, not taking care of your teeth can result in additional expenses to repair damage and improve your appearance.
How can I get straighter teeth without braces? In some cases, porcelain veneers can cover front teeth and give your smile a more even look. To actually straighten teeth, many adult and teen patients choose Invisalign clear braces. This system uses a series of clear, custom aligners to move teeth in to the correct position without the inconvenience of traditional metal braces.
What options are available for smile enhancement? You deserve a smile that matches your style and personality. For a smile makeover tailored to fit your needs, your dentist may suggest porcelain veneers to close gaps, teeth whitening to remove stains, and porcelain crowns to replace old restorations. If you are missing teeth, dental implants can give you back a complete smile. Call us today and schedule an appointment for a cosmetic consultation.
