Do you cover your smile since you are missing teeth? Is it difficult for you to bite on the food? If you have issues due to missing teeth, see your dentist at Tulsa. Together, you can discuss decisions that may help fix your smile and stay healthy.

• Dental implants

Dental implants are substitution tooth roots. Implants provide a consistent and strong foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable teeth that are made to look like your natural teeth.  The dentist Tulsa Place dental implant in the following way; penetration and fixing of a metal screw into the gum bone. Therefore, it is served as an artificial root for the crown which is visible in your mouth. Fixation of dental crown happens at the very end.

Pros of Dental Implants:

• Dental implants closely resemble your own teeth Improved appearance and speech
• Makes eating easy and Improved oral wellbeing enabling you to eat your preferred food with certainty and without pain.
• Implants are truly strong and will last numerous years that enhances your confidence with great consideration.
• Dentist at Tulsa is providing best Dental implants services which are as comfortable as our own teeth.

Getting a single dental implant will approximately cost you $3,000 to $4,500. If you are looking for a long-lasting yet a costly treatment for you missing teeth to be filled, then midtown smile is the place for you.  You will find the best dental implantologist at Tulsa, which is a call away with the above-mentioned advantages to provide.

If you are looking for a specialist or a general dentist who is expert in their field, then you are in the right place. The dentist at Tulsa will guide you about the best treatment option suitable for your mouth and body. They will do your comprehensive examination that includes taking dental and medical histories to avoid any contraindication to your treatment plan. We at midtown smile care about your smile and your overall health.

According to the FDI World Dental Federation, roughly 60% of all school children, as well as 100 percent of adults, experience tooth decay. Often, this condition leads to plenty of pain and discomfort. Evidently, they all need dental healthcare services, which include dental implants. Consequently, they seek out help from their dentists. Ideally, you should only receive implants from accredited, licensed, and highly trained dentists. Here, we look at the five most amazing things you should know about dental implants and the impact they have on your dental health.

Dental implants preserve the few healthy teeth left

Assuming that you have a few healthy teeth remaining, you would probably don’t want them removed. In this regard, dental implants could be your best solution. Without this option, you would have to worry about complete removal of all teeth. Alternatively, your teeth – including the healthy ones – would undergo plenty of alteration, which is good for the bad ones but terrible news for the decent ones. Furthermore, the alteration is capable of weakening healthy teeth thus making them increasingly susceptible to decay.

Dental implants enjoy high success rates

Many people often have to keep visiting and revisiting their dentists for several procedures. Mostly, they do this to rectify a previous procedure that didn’t produce the desired results. On the other hand, your likelihood of going back to the dentist because the dental implants are not working is much lower. For the most part, it compares favorably to the success rates you are likely to experience with any other dental procedure. The implants enjoy a success rate of between 95% and 98%, which is almost unheard of in healthcare. These rates depend on:

1. The condition of your dental health
2. The exact spot where the implants are inserted
3. The expertise of the person placing the implants

Dental implants look like natural teeth

What is more, anything you do to your teeth should make them both look and feel as natural as possible. In this regard, you would struggle finding a procedure or product that meets this criteria better than dental implants. As you look at the implants, you would be struck at how familiar they look to the real teeth. You might even have to pinch yourself thinking that you are actually gazing at the real teeth. What you may not realize is that dental implants are customized to resemble the rest of your teeth so they don’t feel awkward or out of place. You can learn more about dental implants at Lifestyle Dental.

Dental implants allow you to enjoy eating

In the past, tooth decay probably made it impossible for you to enjoy eating. The pain and discomfort the decay causes is likely to make you shudder in fear every time you think about eating or drinking something. However, the moment you receive dental implants, all your fear will vanish into oblivion. Never again will you have to walk around avoiding your favorite foods and drinks. Here, dental implants are better than any other dental treatment solution in that they allow you to chew as naturally as possible without worrying about damaging them.

Dental implants are effective at preventing bone loss

Additionally, one can’t talk about dental implants without mentioning the effect they have on bone loss. In this regard, it’s great to know that your implants will put a stop to the loss of bones in your jaw. Normally, tooth decay leads to loss of teeth. The moment you lose any of your teeth, the bones around that tooth you lost also begin suffering deterioration. Normally, this happens because of the lack of proper stimulation in that part of the jaw. Implants mimic the role that actual teeth play by stimulating the jawbone hence preventing further wear.

As shown above, dental implants are almost mandatory for people who experience almost debilitating tooth decay. They present numerous benefits to tooth decay patients. Nevertheless, you owe it to yourself – and your teeth – to go to a dentist for proper examination, diagnosis, and prescription. You can’t prescribe the implants on yourself. They have a wonderful effect on jawbone, dental health, and eating. With them in place, your teeth look as natural as ever.

Taking optimum care of your oral health is a lot more important than you might have thought, and for which, choosing the right dentist is even more crucial! As a matter of fact, choosing the right dentist is almost as important as choosing a life partner, in a way that a wrong decision can doom you for the rest of your life. No one wants to experience the embarrassment of skipping out on the plan of having ice cream with their friends just because it hurts their teeth. Bleeding gums or misaligned teeth can literally ruin your entire self-confidence, and don’t even get us started with the bad breath! As such, your oral hygiene has effects which penetrate your self-esteem and more broadly, your overall personality. Therefore, in an attempt to prevent you from ending up like a Gollum (teeth wise), we, at “The Smile Institute”, have compiled the top seven crucial things you need to know before choosing your dentist.

1) Qualification and Experience

First and foremost, probably the most crucial aspect is the experience and qualifications of your chosen dentist. Make sure to clear your doubts and carefully assess whether the dentist is even equipped to practice their profession. Nobody appreciates a job done in an amateur manner–let alone the one that can significantly impact your physical appearance and self-esteem.

2) Cost vs. Quality

The cost of dental services and corresponding quality of dental skills and materials in use at the dental practice fluctuates heavily between dentists. It would be a wise decision to get a few estimates beforehand and do some research to see that you are getting a good combination of cost and quality. After all, we all know that it is not possible to get a really good quality of anything for a very low price. Quality does not come cheap. However, it does not mean that you must select the most expensive dentist to get good quality.

3) Personality of the Dentist and Atmosphere at the Dental Practice

This is the time to put your FBI equivalent stalking skills to use. Go to their website, read reviews, ask around in groups, look at the photos and videos of what the dental practice looks like inside. Know your dentist because the only gap acceptable is the one between your teeth, not in the communication between you and your dentist! Ensure your dentist is friendly and cooperative, and make sure that they listen to your concerns.

4) What your Dentist Specializes In

Every dentist offers the basics but makes sure your dentist knows how to perform the specialized procedures, such as orthodontics, dental implants, complex cosmetic procedures and others, so you don’t have to face a referral to an unknown dentist at the eleventh hour. Bouncing from person to person results in an awkward final look that looks far from natural. 

5) Accessibility and Location of your Dentist’s Clinic

The nearer the dentist the better. More advanced dental procedures usually require a follow-up. Dental emergencies can pop up anytime. And in general, the less time you spend getting to the dental office, the more regular you will visit your dentist and the healthier you will be!

6) Whether your Dentist has the Latest Equipment

Up-to-date technologies and equipment is a must if you want to ensure smooth procedures! Make sure your dentist has invested in current and advanced technologies to ensure better and more accurate results. Usage of advanced technology makes the processes go smoother, enhancing patient experience and guarantees preventative treatment is taking place.

7) Flexibility and Respect for your Time

Last but not least, flexible schedules and respect for your time. Life often tends to get busy and things don’t always go as planned. Make sure your doctor is well aware of that. An understanding dentist that can squeeze you in last minute or doesn’t mind rescheduling your appointments for another time is definitely a must!

There’s a lot more to consider when choosing a new dentist, but don’t let this overwhelm you! Hopefully, these tips will help you identify the right one because choosing a dentist is similar to any other important life decision. It requires research and determination, so do your part and leave the rest in the hands of the professionals!

When a tooth is lost, many people consider dental implants as a tooth replacement option because the space left in their mouth isn’t exactly aesthetically pleasing. Who wants to walk around looking like they just lost a boxing match, right?

Aside from a person’s physical appearance, however, getting a tooth replaced is also very important to your oral health, and lacking a tooth can escalate into bigger problems than you could have anticipated the longer you wait.

Why Replace aMissing Tooth?

Teeth serve many purposes when it comes to the strength and functionality of your mouth. After all, teeth weren’t just put in your mouth for decoration. Teeth help you bite and chew your food, and they need to remain strong and intact to do that.

Now, if you’re thinking “It’s not like I can’t chew with one tooth gone,” you may want to rethink. Teeth also help keep your jawbone strong and prevent bone deterioration. If a tooth is lost and not replaced, the jawbone begins to weaken and deteriorate because of the stimulus and pressure of chewing keep the jawbone functioning and healthy. If there is no stimulus or pressure in a portion of the jaw because a tooth is missing, that area will weaken and, if left alone, lose function and lead to bone loss.

Having a missing tooth is like having a house with a broken foundation... if one part is missing the whole thing could very well collapse. With dental implants, you’re replacing the missing part of the foundation, keeping the jawbone strong and functional.

Of course, having all your teeth makes your smile look beautiful! An unsightly gap in your mouth may lead to you feeling self-conscious, making you hide your smile in family reunion photos or at your child’s birthday party. Dental implants can cure these confidence issues! With dental implants, you’ll not only be able to flash a dazzling smile to your friends and family, but eat, drink, smile, laugh, and be yourself without worrying about the tooth gap. Your social life and career prospects are saved!

The Dental Implant Procedure

Although replacing a missing tooth is a serious matter, the two-part procedure is pretty straight-forward.

In the first part of the procedure, a bone graft may be made if you’ve already experienced bone loss in the jawbone due to the missing tooth. A bone graft is when the dentist takes a little bit of healthy bone from one part of the jaw to replace what was lost in the damaged area. But don’t worry! This is typically done under oral sedation or general anaesthesia, so you won’t feel any discomfort. Once sufficient bone is available to accommodate the dental implant, the dentist installs a titanium screw in the jawbone. Part one of the procedure is complete!

Once your dental implant surgery is complete, you may receive a temporary crown to put on the implant that same day. If a bone graft was necessary, the jawbone may not be ready to bear the load of chewing right away and you’ll have to wait a few weeks for the surgical site to heal. During that time, the dental implant fuses to the jawbone to create a strong foundation for the implant crown.

When your dentist is satisfied that your dental implant is strong enough to withstand everyday chewing function, a permanent crown will be placed on top of your implant. Congratulations! You are now ready to enjoy your new smile!

Strong, Stronger, Dental Implant

If you’re beginning to think replacing your missing tooth is more necessary than you initially thought, then you are right. Dental implants are considered the gold standard of tooth replacement, with many benefits for the appearance, functionality, and health of your smile. If you feel like dental implants are the right solution for you, talk to your trusted dental implant dentist and get your smile back!

All On 4 Implants is a dental treatment that gives you a full set of teeth, anchored in four points in your mouth. The implants are long-lasting and eliminate the hassle of multiple dental procedures, and have far fewer complications than other dental treatments such as false teeth.

To put it simply, a dental implant is where a screw, usually made of titanium, is placed into your jawbone that acts as the base or the root for a tooth that has been extracted. On to this, a false tooth or teeth are screwed on.

Dental implants, in general, are popular because:

• They come as close to the performance of natural tooth as possible
• The recovery time compared to a regular denture placement is faster and you will be functioning soon after the procedure
• They make for a comfortable fit in your mouth
• They have a long life span with the right care
• Implants have a high success rate compared to similar forms of treatment
• They allow you to eat everything you like (even steak)
• They look great

Why are they a good option?

A dental implant may be a good idea for a missing tooth or two. But if you are missing more and full dentures are needed, then AO4 may be the right solution for you. An AO4 builds on the concept of an implant. Instead of having a screw for each tooth, it makes use of just four implants on your top and bottom jaw each. With these acting as an anchor, the full dentures are attached.

How much will AO4 cost?

With any such procedure, cost plays an important factor. There is no doubt that AO4 is an expensive procedure, costing as much as $40,000. This makes it essential to look into what your insurance covers. Factors that impact the cost also include how many teeth you need to be done in the procedure. The material used for the teeth makes a difference to the pricing as well. The standard acrylic dentures built on a titanium base can cost up to $30,000. Dentures constructed from porcelain, while realistic looking, can add up to $5000 per jaw, taking the final price up to $35,000.

What can you expect during the AO4 procedure?

Dental procedures can be a scary prospect, irrespective of how simple or complicated the procedure is. Before the AO4 procedure, your dentist will ensure that you are comfortable, all your queries are answered and that you have been made comfortably numb with local or general anesthesia.

The next step is preparing your mouth for implants. This removes all weak, diseased, infected or failing teeth, and clearing out all problematic tissues in your jaws and gums. This is followed by the implantation of titanium screws. On each jaw, you will have two screws towards the front and two towards the back to serve as anchors. These carry the load of the denture which is placed on them.

Once fitted with the denture, all incisions made for extractions and for the implants will be cleaned and sutured and you will be taken to the recovery room. Here you can rest and recover from the anesthesia.

What can you expect in the recovery period?

In recovery, soon after the procedure, gauze pads will be placed on all areas of your mouth that underwent surgery. You will be required to bite down on this to stem bleeding. Once the bleeding stops, usually after an hour, these gauze pads will be removed. In case the bleeding continues, you may have the pads changed every half hour to 45 minutes till it stops.

Post-surgical care once you are home involves taking it easy and not doing anything that can stress your mouth. Resting on a bed or your sofa for a few days post the surgery is important. You must not lift any heavy objects that could lead to bleeding or swelling. When getting up, from a prone position on the bed or from the sofa, do so gently. Sudden movements can make you light-headed. Avoid any exercise regimens you follow for at least 3-4 days post the surgery.

Caring for surgical areas involves not touching or disturbing any of the tender areas. You will be given a medicated mouth wash to ensure no infections arise and will have to clean your mouth with a gentle toothbrush that will be prescribed.

If you see a small bit of bleeding a few days after the surgery, saltwater rinses two to three times a day will be prescribed. Taking ample rest, managing pain and eating soft/ liquid foods will help you recover well.

Post-surgery complications
There are some things to expect following your operation:

• Persistent bleeding can happen when the gauze pads are not placed correctly. This can be corrected if it repositioned. Ice packs, sitting straight and staying away from any physical activity helps.
• Swelling usually comes down in three days. Using ice packs on and off for 20 minutes each helps reduce its
• Pain cannot be avoided in surgery and you will be put on pain medication to manage the discomfort.
• Nausea may be present and you may even throw up any blood that you may have swallowed accidentally. Carbonated drinks and plain crackers help ease nausea.
• Sharp sensations in the mouth occur from the bony walls that used to support your teeth. You may even find small bones protruding from your gums. If this remains uncomfortable, speak with your dentist.
• Dry lips are a natural occurrence from the gauze that you have in your mouth. Chapstick will help deal with this. A sore throat also occurs sometimes from the gauze as do stiff muscles from being in the same position for a long time.

All of these issues are easily resolved but if you find that you are uncomfortable, do not hesitate to contact your dentist.

As with any medical procedure, there are risks that you should know about. There is a chance dental implants will not integrate with your bone and the implant will fail. This is a very rare occurrence. This can happen for various reasons, primarily that of your gums is very weak or the bone loss in your gums being really high. If it fails, your dentist will remove it, let your mouth heal and then put in a new implant.

This is the basics of AO4 implants. To ensure you get the safest all on 4 treatment speak to NSOMS

If you want more information or want to consider an AO4 treatment, contact us today.

You may have heard the news: Smile Direct Club is about to open locations inside hundreds of CVS pharmacies nationwide. That’s an exciting development for people who have always dreamed of having straighter, more even teeth. Your local Invisalign dentist, on the other hand, may have a thing or two to say about the trendy new DIY approach to teeth straightening.

By significantly expanding its physical presence in CVS stores, SDC ups the ante against a competitor (and self-proclaimed inventor of clear aligners therapy) Invisalign, and dentists are determined to defend their Invisalign turf against the newcomer.

Invisalign Dentist vs. Smile Direct Club: What’s the Difference?

While both brands, Invisalign and SDC, arguably sell highly similar products, their differences can mostly be found in the associated services and what’s happening behind the scenes.

SDC relies on a teledentistry model to achieve the desired teeth straightening results, and all interactions with the company(aside from an in-person 3D scan that can be performed at an SDC SmileShop) happen remotely. There are no visits or consultations with a personal dentist, and exchanges occur by postal service, email and, if needed, via 800-number. The patient takes his or her own teeth impressions, sends in the molds, and receives custom-made clear aligners in the mail. The process is, according to the company, monitored by professional dentists.

Invisalign, on the other hand, follows a more traditional method of patient care. Teeth impressions are taken by a dentist onsite, in his or her office. Regular in-person follow-up visits are required to monitor progress, make adjustments if and as needed, and continually guide the process until the desired results are achieved

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Cost

Let’s get this important point out of the way first. Smile Direct Club is hands-down the less expensive option. A course of treatment with SDC is the more affordable option at a price point of only $1,850, with the option of paying in monthly installments of just $80.

As for Invisalign, patients must be prepared to invest $3,000 and up in their straighter smile, although special offers by a local Invisalign dentist may advertise lower pricing. Invisalign dentists may also offer affordable payment plans that allow patients to pay for the cost of treatment in monthly installments over time.

Cost winner: Smile Direct Club

Convenience

Unless you like sitting in the dentist’s chair and spending time in waiting rooms, Smile Direct Club tempts with convenience. For most of us, that’s a no-brainer. SDC clients take their own dental impressions in the comfort of their homes, receive all supplies by mail, and switch to the next retainer according to the time schedule provided. Six months later, if all goes well, treatment will be complete – without ever setting foot into a dentist’s office.

For Invisalign clients, regular dentist visits play an important role in successful treatment. Depending on the complexity of the case, the entire course of treatment can last 12 months or longer.

Convenience winner: Smile Direct Club

Customer Service

Your Invisalign dentist is your very own, very personal customer service representative. Thanks to regular check-ups, the dentist can spot right away if adjustments to the clear aligners are needed or if the switching schedule needs to be modified.

Trying to get that same care and service from an 800-number…well, we all know how these things can go. Yet that’s the position Smile Direct Club members may find themselves in if they have questions or, worst case scenario, treatment doesn’t go according to plan.

Customer service winner: Invisalign

Professional Results

Here is where things get really complicated.

Smile Direct Club can absolutely achieve great results in mild to moderate cases of teeth misalignment. That’s if all goes well:

• the patient takes perfect teeth impressions AND
• switches aligners exactly on schedule
• there are no complications on the horizon
• other dental treatments like an emergency tooth extraction or crown don’t throw treatment off course
• the desired results are achieved and the patient is satisfied with his or her new smile

Invisalign is geared toward patients who suffer from mild to moderate cases of misalignment, as well as more severe cases who would in all likelihood be unable to achieve the results they want with SDC. Thanks to ongoing professional care by a dentist, in person, Invisalign clients receive superior monitoring and “trouble-shooting”. From the get-go, Invisalign patients are set to likely experience better results from professionally taken teeth impressions alone.

Professional results winner: Invisalign

Bottom Line

We’re talking about your teeth here and – regardless of investment – you want to be sure that you get your money’s worth when you look in the mirror once treatment is complete. After all, you are considering a teeth-straightening journey for a reason, and even $2,000 is a big expense when the result doesn’t match your expectations.

Do your research, weigh the pros and cons, know what’s important to you, and you’ll be well on your way to a straighter smile!

If you’re wondering about dental implants and what they can do for your smile, you’re not alone. Dental Helpline, a non-profit that specializes in answering consumers’ oral health questions, recently reported that questions about dental implants and other cosmetic procedures made up 15% of inquiries over the last year. 

Why is that, you ask? Well, it seems that good looks and an attractive smile are becoming more and more important to both ourselves and others, and a great set of teeth is a major contributing factor for achieving that goal.

According to Dr. Nigel Carter of the Oral Health Foundation, people today take more pride in the appearance of their pearly whites than in years past.

“For many of us, the appearance of our smile has taken a much greater priority over recent years,” Carter said. ”In the past, it would be quite common to leave a missing tooth. Now we are searching for the alternatives to fill in the gaps.”

In addition to dental implants questions, Dental Helpline also noted an uptick in inquiries about dental veneers, crowns, and other cosmetic procedures.

Dental Implants Q&A

How do dental implants work?

The dentist begins by assessing the overall health of your teeth by examining your mouth and taking x-rays. If a severely decayed or broken tooth is still in place, the extraction of the tooth will be the first step. Your dentist will also tell you if he suspects that a bone graft may be needed. A bone graft is necessary when a patient doesn’t have enough bone mass in the jaw to support a dental implant.

You’ll likely be asked to choose from a range of sedation options – typically oral sedation or general anesthesia – to keep you comfortable during the extraction and/or implant procedure.

Once the implant site is ready to accept the implant, the dentist will insert a titanium “screw” and anchor it securely to your jaw bone. If the implant insertion immediately follows tooth extraction, the dentist will already have access to the implant site; otherwise, he will make a small incision in your gums to place the implant.

If you qualify for same-day dental implants, the dentist will place a temporary crown onto the implant right away and you’ll walk out with a new smile that very day. If, on the other hand, an immediate load-bearing implant isn’t feasible (for patients who need a bone graft, for example), the patient has to wait approximately 6 months until the surgical site is healed before a crown can be placed.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

1. Dental implants look and feel just like natural teeth. They are a permanent prosthesis and do not (in fact, cannot) come out at night.

2. They are extremely strong and durable. With proper care, they can last a lifetime.

3. Speaking of care – no special pastes are needed! Just brush and floss like you would your natural teeth.

How much do dental implants cost?

Dental implants set the gold standard in tooth replacement therapy, and while pricing varies from one dentist to the next, patients can plan on spending upward of $1,300 per implant. Much depends on the crown material used and whether you need a bone graft or tooth extraction.

While some may consider the cost pricey, the good news is that some dentists offer affordable payment plans or financing options.

Ask your dentist about dental implants and give yourself the glowing smile and renewed confidence you deserve!

It’s more than finding the right candidate: keeping a new hire is just as important as those on your patient list! It’s a familiar story by now: You are running a busy dental practice in your town. Your patients have seemed to be generally happy with the care and services they’ve received, up until the last year or so.Also, it seems to be tricky for you to retain skilled staff over the long term. The candidates you have hired have been great team members, but they seem to move on to other endeavors after a year or so.

Practitioners know the challenge in trying to find qualified, competent dental staff. When there’s a frequent staff turnover, the challenge is compounded. It’s time to consider: if you want to have a stable, prosperous practice, it’s important to work with your employees.There are numerous ways to switch up your dental game to ensure you have happy, satisfied staff that will result in your practice being truly successful.

It goes beyond hiring…

All the steps you need to take to find a capable, qualified staff member are all equally important: the advertising, interviewing process, the background and licensing checks, and the final decision all weigh in to bringing an ace team member on site. You’ve found the perfect person for the job — and now it’s your job to keep them there. Here are some tips for doing just that:

Onboarding

The on boarding process is critical to show your employee not only how you run your business but why your practice is the best place for them to work. Essentially, it’s your time to shine as brightly as those pearly-white smiles that you’re known for creating. Michelle R. Corbo, a practice analyst with the CDA suggests this process should be clearly communicated and carefully planned: “Don’t just have them come in and go, ‘Okay, this is it. Here’s sterilization, and go.’ Set them up. Give them an opportunity to learn.”

Corbo follows this up with recommending that you allow them time to get to know your staff and systems. Also, it’s important that you allow some flexibility in your schedule to check in with them to address and questions or concerns, and to ensure they’re comfortable and doing well.

She gently reminds practitioners that joining a successful team can be stressful for the new hire — it’s a challenge jumping onto a brand new team and feeling the pressure to succeed right away. So, to alleviate that pressure, make the first day fun. If possible, offer a continental breakfast or catered lunch for the entire team on your new employee’s first day. She also reminds us that new platforms such as Cloud Dentistry, help dental practices find the right dental staff to hire by providing "on-demand" staffing services.

Doing so gives you all a chance to get to know one another a little better, and creates a welcoming workplace atmosphere that all your teammates enjoy. Moving forward, a gesture of this nature on each employees’ birthday, for example, or on Meeting Day at the end of every month (if revenue allows) is a great way to make each member feel worthy. When your employees feel valued, they will be more likely to stick around.

Communication

I think it’s probably unnecessary to say it out loud, but effective communication is the cornerstone to every successful — well, anything: relationship, project or business, and dentistry is no different. This is where team meetings are crucial to ensure everyone is on the same page (remember that lunch I recommended above?). Working catered lunches are a great way to gather everyone and open up dialogue around office practices.

Encourage people to share their observations and voice their concerns. As a team, address the issues that are raised and come up with group troubleshooting strategies to create positive change. If there is something that requires your direct attention, give it the recognition it deserves separately, and in a timely manner.

Leadership

Which brings us to beyond working as a team.All teams need a leader to provide direction and keep them on track, to keep morale buoyant and to ensure everyone meets a common end goal: to keep the patient happy. Foremost dental consultant Linda Miles says outright: “If you have great leadership in the practice, you’re going to have highly accountable people.”Miles offers some other words of wisdom when it comes advising on how to run a successful practice.

“Communication is at the base of everything when it comes to leadership in the dental practice. I also firmly believe that if you put the patient first, everything else falls into place,” Miles says.

Putting the patient first

Most people who have worked in retail or customer service have heard the saying: “the customer is always right.” While being “right” may seem a strange idea when it comes to industry-specific businesses like dentistry, it’s important to consider that keeping the patient happy is major priority.Happiness and satisfaction comes down to every detail in the patient-team interaction: from the welcome they receive, to chair side manner and treatment, to billing and follow-up, the patient experience is what is going to make or break you.

“Patients come first in everything we say or do,” Linda Miles asserts. She emphasizes that it’s vital to ask this question: “‘Is this in the patient’s best interest?’ Patients sign your paycheck, so the better the patients are treated, the more they enjoy coming back and referring others to you.” Logically, as your patient list remains stable — or better yet, grows — the higher the likelihood they are happy with their care. And if they’re happy, typically the practice’s staff feels competent, secure and valued.And contributing to an overall sense of value and well being is the foundation of a vibrant, thriving practice.

First things first: Why choose a dental implants specialist in the first place? Why not simply Google the cheapest dental implant provider in the neighborhood and go for it?

Umm, hold on. We’re talking about your mouth here! The one you eat with, smile with, talk with and, let’s not forget, KISS with!

Let’s just say you wouldn’t trust your baby to any come-along “doctor,” and you shouldn’t when it comes to your pearly whites, either. You’d choose your child’s pediatrician with care, and the same principle applies when choosing the person who’ll ultimately restore your smile to its former glory.

Whether you’ve lost a tooth (or teeth!) to the accident, age, chronic disease, or decay….protect your dental implant investment by selecting your provider wisely!

1 – Dental Implants Cost

Unfortunate, but true: You get what you pay for. We all like to save money, but some offers are just too good to be real. Dental implants are a money-making machine for lots of dentists these days, but their skills, materials, follow-up, and customer service may leave something to be desired. Think about it…a dentist who offers super-cheap dental implants must make up for it by cutting corners somewhere! Don’t fall into a trap of quantity over quality!

Dental implants set the gold standard in tooth replacement because they are durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. They look and feel natural, and deliver a confidence boost only someone who’s walked around with a missing tooth (or ill-fitting denture) for any length of time can appreciate.

A reputable dental implants specialist will offer you a choice of quality materials, and explain the respective expense in detail (preferably in writing). A single dental implant installed by a reputable dental implant specialist starts at $1,300-$1,500, depending on where you live. When you see cut-throat prices, ask questions!

Does the price include consultation, x-rays, and pre-op evaluations? Does it include the implant only or does it cover the abutment and crown as well? What materials are being used? Is a follow-up visit part of the deal?

2 – Qualifications of a Dental Implants Specialist

Did you know that any licensed dentist can, in theory, legally perform dental implant surgery? That’s right…no specialized training is legally necessary for a dentist to cut open your gums, plant a titanium screw in your jaw, top it with a crown of some sort, and send you on your way.

That’s where your own research comes in. If possible, get recommendations from friends or family members who had a positive experience getting dental implants and are willing to endorse the dental implants specialist who performed the work. Don’t know anyone who has dental implants? Leg-work on your part may be required. Check Google, social media, Yelp!, and any other sites you can think of to get a comprehensive picture of your dental implants candidate. Did other patients have a good experience?

Next, call to schedule a consultation. Request a cost proposal in writing. Get at least three estimates from different candidates before you commit.

3 – Before& After Pictures

The proof is in the pudding – uh, pictures! Ask to see before & after photographs of previous, REAL patients who had the dental implant procedure performed by the specific dental implants specialist of your choice. Does the color of the implant match the person’s natural teeth nicely? Does the shape of the dental implant flow well with the rest of the person’s bite?

Tooth replacement dentistry is a competitive market, and as is always the case where money is to be made, the sharks are lurking. Don’t fall for empty promises or low pricing. Your dental implants won’t come cheap. You have a right to expect quality work and lasting functionality.

For many people, the word root canal treatment is synonymous with pain and fear. However, it truly is not. If done correctly, a root canal treatment is an entirely safe and pain-free procedure. Thousands of root canal treatment procedures are performed by dentists throughout the world each day. According to the American Association of Endodontists, more than 15 million root canal procedures are performed each year. Here’s everything you need to know about root canal treatment.

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is an endodontic (endo=inside and odont=tooth) procedure which is performed inside the tooth structure. This procedure is performed to remove and rinse out inflamed or non-vital pulp (soft tissue located in the middle of the tooth which consists of nerve and blood vessels) from the interior of the tooth and to replace it with an inert and durable material which prevents re-infection.

Learning about Tooth Anatomy

Our teeth are covered by a hard and mineralized layer known as the enamel. The enamel protects the underlying softer layers of the tooth, the dentine (which still is harder than bone), and pulp, respectively which contain nerve endings and blood vessels that nourish the tooth. The dental pulp fills the space present in the middle of our teeth. The hollow cavity inside the visible part of the tooth (biggest part of the space) is called the pulp chamber, while the space inside the roots are called root canals. Hence, the name root canal treatment.  

When the enamel is destroyed, either because of continued poor oral hygiene maintenance or as a result of a direct injury, the underlying dentine and pulp become exposed. When this happens, you might feel a sharp pain whenever you take any hot or cold drinks. This is because the exposed nerve endings send a pain stimulus to the brain whenever the tooth senses a temperature change. This stage is reversible. If you visit your dentist at this stage, he or she will restore the damaged tooth with a filling or a crown, and you are good to go!

However, if you avoid taking that supposedly dreaded visit to the dental office, or the damage (either a cavity or a fracture) is too close to the pulp, then the condition will be much worse. In this situation the pulp tissue becomes irreversibly inflamed. Now, this is a severe and painful situation. Inflammation of the pulp leads to the development of pressure inside the tooth which results in a sharp, spontaneous, lingering and unbearable pain, which does not go away even with pain medication. At this stage, the only option we have to save your tooth from extraction is a root canal treatment.  

What are the Symptoms that I Need a Root Canal Treatment (rotfylling)?

If you’re suffering from most of the following problems, then it may be an indication that you need a root canal treatment by  root canal specialist or a dentist at tannlege as :

• Pain – Severe and lingering pain in the affected tooth. Specially induced by warmth. Usually, the pain is localized but, in some cases (although rare), it may also be felt in a region away from the impacted tooth. This is known as referred pain.
• Swelling – this is one of the classic signs of inflammation. The affected side of the face also becomes warm and red in appearance. In this instance, the pulp of the tooth may be dead already.
• When the tooth feels elevated –this happens when pus starts to accumulate underneath the root of the tooth caused by death of the pulp due to several infection or other kinds of inflammation or mechanical damage.
• Tenderness when chewing –Usually when the pulp is severely inflamed, after several days the intense pain can change character to chewing tenderness. This suggests that the pulp has necrotized (has died) and you need a root canal treatment. If not treated, there will be flare-ups of intense pain again in the near future.

How is a Root Canal Treatment Performed?

Now, let’s talk about how the dentist performs a root canal treatment. A root canal procedure is usually completed in 2 sittings, depending upon the type of affected tooth and the severity of your condition. However, in some cases, the dentist may also perform this procedure in a single sitting

• Clinical Evaluation – first, the dentist will make a detailed examination of your teeth. They will also look at the x-ray images of suspected teeth to localize the affected tooth and to determine the severity and extent of pulp inflammation. X-ray images also help the dentist in assessing the anatomy of the root canals.

• Preparing the Access Cavity (trepanation) – This is done to gain access to the underlying pulp chamber and root canals. The entrance to the pulp chamber and canals must be very precise. The opening must give the dentist easy straight access to the canals and at the same time be minimalistic. Many dentists damage the tooth too much during this part by widening the access cavity too much. This will weaken the remaining walls of the tooth which in turn reduces life expectancy of the tooth drastically.

• Cleaning and Shaping of Root Canals (negotiating and instrumentation) –In this part the length of all canals is explored, measured and filed/rinsed mechanically by thin files and irrigated chemically by antibacterial chemicals (based on chloride). This step remove dead pulp tissue and bacteria inside the canals. The bacteria, which is sitting on inside surface of the canals, is also removed. A very important part of this step is a thorough chemical rinse of the last 2-3 mm of the canals. This is done most effectively by ultrasonic irrigation systems. This will ensure a much greater rate of success for the root canal treatment.

• Obturation –In this part, which is usually done during the second appointment, the previously instrumented and cleaned canals, will be filled/sealed with inert bio materials. The most durable and bio compatible materials for this purpose are bio-ceramics which are not commonly used because of its high cost.

All teeth are anchored to bone. But the tooth and the bone are not in direct contact. Between the bone and the tooth, there is a connective tissue which functions as the tooth’s shock absorber. This tissue which is called “periodontal ligament” or PDL, will get stiffer and narrower with time after a root canal treatment. Thus, the teeth that are root canal treated lose their bouncy supportive PDL over time. This makes them more prone to fractures. The risk of fracture is already increased in these teeth because of earlier restorations and the root canal procedure in itself. Therefore, it is highly recommended to restore the teeth with a crown after the root canal treatment. This will prolong the life expectancy of such teeth.

Today,affordable dental implants Long Island NY are the most common restoration alternative for a missing tooth or teeth. However, a few years ago, dentures and dental bridges were the most common procedures to fix missing teeth. These alternatives caused bone deterioration which interfered with eating, speaking, smiling, and other daily activities. Dental implants restore a lost tooth so that it looks, fits, feels and functions like your natural teeth when implanted by a skilled implant dentist.

Reasons Why You Should Consider Affordable Dental Implants Long Island NY

Stop Teeth Shifting

When you lose a tooth or teeth, the surrounding teeth will migrate to fill the gap. This causes a number of complications. It’s difficult to keep crowded or unevenly spaced teeth clean, and you may end up paying a fortune for orthodontic care. This means that you should place a dental implant as soon as possible to ensure that your teeth are properly spaced and easy to clean.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Most people wearing dentures complain of a wide variety of complications. Sores in their mouths, poor fit, food restrictions, and sunken lips. If you are wearing dentures, a professional implant dentist can provide you with a fixed and permanent solution with implant supported dentures.

Conserve your Jawbone

If you have a missing tooth or teeth and you opt to place a fixed bridge rather than a dental implant, with time your jawbone will disintegrate. This occurs because the jawbone doesn’t receive adequate stimulation without the tooth root. Similarly, dentures that aren’t implant-supported cause jawbone deterioration.

Preserve your Appearance

If your jawbone disintegrates due to missing teeth, it will cause your face to appear sunken which means you will look years older. This explains why people with dentures often complain of sunken cheeks and thin lips. Dental implant posts will provide your body with the stimulation it needs to maintain a healthy and dense jawbone that can keep your face looking youthful.

Get Affordable Dental Implants Long Island NY

Not everyone can afford dental implants, especially now that they are categorized as cosmetic procedures by insurance companies. Keep in mind that very few insurance firms pay for cosmetic dental procedures. However, discount dental plans like DentalSave can help cut your affordable dental implants Long Island NY substantially. DentalSave’s network dentists can discount dental implants at 20 percent off or more. 20 percent off can be thousands of dollars in savings.

Modern dentistry offers a number of solutions for tooth loss, including dental implants, dentures, and dental bridges. While most people understand that dental implants are today’s gold standard when it comes to tooth replacement, enjoying ever-increasing popularity, dentures remain the most widespread prosthetic of choice for dental patients with missing teeth.

Dental implants, unfortunately, can carry a hefty price tag for people missing more than a single tooth, and the cost is often prohibitive for many patients. Thanks to ongoing strides in dental technology, however, dentures are a more attractive and effective option than ever.

Who Can Benefit From Dentures?

When most people think of dentures, they conjure up an image of their grandmother’s ill-fitting device – complete with clacking noises and appliances accidentally dropped onto the Thanksgiving dinner plate. It’s a sight that used to send children running from the room, in shock at a toothless grandma and a faceless set of teeth grinning from between the turkey and cranberry sauce.

The good news is that just about anyone is a good candidate for modern dentures.

You may benefit from dentures if:

• You are missing several teeth
• You have sufficient gum tissue and bone mass in your jaw to accommodate the removable prosthetic

The type of dentures your dentist will recommend for you ultimately depends on the number of missing teeth.

• Same-day (temporary) dentures may be available for patients who want to leave the dentist’s office with a new smile right away; the temporary dentures are worn while the permanent dentures are created in a dental lab
• Implant dentures utilize dental implants for the strongest possible bite without the risk of shifting or slipping
• Full dentures may be the best choice for patients missing all their teeth
• Partial dentures are ideal for those who are missing three or more teeth (for one or two missing teeth, your dentist may recommend a dental bridge)

What Is The Process Of Getting Dentures?

the process of getting your first set of dentures may start with the extraction of any remaining decayed or otherwise unhealthy teeth. The dentist then takes a custom mold of your bite from which the dentures will ultimately be created. Your dentist will help you choose the most suitable material and color for your dentures, Before the final product is made, you may get a preview of how your new teeth will look by way of a wax model.

When your new teeth are ready, you’ll return to the dentist’s office for a fitting. At this time, the dentist will show you how to insert the dentures and explain how to take proper care of them. He will also check for a proper fit and comfort.

During the first few days of wearing your new dentures, you may need to practice speaking and chewing until you get used to the sensation of your new teeth. Don’t worry – the adjustment period should only take a few days.

Does Insurance Cover Dentures?

The cost of dentures depends on the type of dentures you receive. A full set costs more than a partial, for example, implant-supported dentures will also raise the price, and the material you choose for your new teeth figures into the overall expense as well.

Some dental insurance policies cover the cost of dentures up to the annual benefit cap, which can be a tremendous help in paying for your new teeth. Your dentist’s office can assist you in checking with your insurance carrier beforehand to avoid surprises in coverage or the lack thereof.

Medicaid, unfortunately, does not typically provide benefits for dentures. If cost is of concern, ask your dentist if dental financing is available. This allows you to make affordable monthly payments instead of paying the full price right away.

Your dentist will help you choose the right set of dentures to fit your needs and budget.

Speak with confidence, smile to your heart’s content, and eat the foods you love with dentures that fit!

Word is out that dental veneers are the secret to achieving a brighter, more even set of teeth – fast! In fact, dental veneers have become quite the trend recently, with numerous retailers jumping into the fray, following the scent of money.

These days, clip-on veneers promise perfect teeth for a fraction of the cost of the professional dental veneers you get at the dentist office, and the Internet and social media are ripe with rip-off tales by dissatisfied customers. Nevertheless, these retail companies reel in interested customers at a startling pace, all of whom hope to regain their confidence with a more beautiful smile.

Unfortunately, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Here’s a comparison between traditional dental veneers installed by dentists and the commercially available clip-on variety.

What they have in common

Both types of dental veneers start with getting dental impressions to create a mold of your existing teeth. The impressions help the lab workers create a custom set of veneers that, in theory, fit your mouth perfectly.

And that right there is where the commonalities seem to end.

Cost

Let’s start with the shiny gold nugget that draws most people to clip-on veneers: price. Basic clip-on models start at around $300 per arch, but if you want a more polished look you’ll have to dig into your wallet a bit deeper. Some YouTube reviewers spent upward of $1,500 on their clip-on veneers.

Traditional veneers can run into thousands of dollars, it’s true. It depends on how many of your natural teeth you want to cover, and price varies from dentist to dentist. Cost can vary from $900 to more than $2,500 per tooth.

But, as is the case so often in life, you get what you pay for.

Fit & Comfort

Your dentist has probably taken hundreds of impressions from patients during the course of his training and career. In other words, he has experience in creating molds that will ultimately result in great-fitting, comfortable veneers.

Clip-on companies, however, rely on your ability to take good impressions of your existing teeth yourself. An ill-timed wiggle or a misplaced squeeze can result in months of back-and-forth with the veneer seller until you achieve impressions that are good enough or, at worst, in a product you cannot return and wasted your money on.

Appearance

No one wants to end up with a row of Chiclets in their mouth. Yet if online reviews and comments are to be believed, that’s exactly the risk you will take with clip-on veneers. Odds are that some companies deliver higher quality clip-ons than others, but are you ready to sift through the sea of retailers that has popped up in recent months until you find the right one?

Countless consumers report receiving cheap plastic appliances that look and feel fake and deliver none of the confidence boost they expected.

Save your time and money with professional dental veneers instead.

Typically made of porcelain, professional veneers cover your teeth with an ultra-thin layer that corrects misaligned and chipped teeth. The dentist will also help you select the perfect shade of white for your veneers so you can smile brightly and achieve a dazzling look.

Which brings us to…

Durability

Porcelain is the material of choice for most people who decide to invest in traditional dental veneers, and a good dental lab will meticulously fashion your veneers to feel natural, comfortable, and reliable. Traditional veneers are permanent, meaning there is no need to remove them at night, or to eat and drink. You brush them like natural teeth. Best of all, with proper care they can last for 10-15 years or more.

Clip-on veneers work much like removable dentures, hooking into your existing teeth. Many brands advise against eating or drinking while wearing them and users report problems with breakage. Clip-ons should be carefully brushed and cleaned daily to keep bacteria from getting trapped beneath them and resulting in tooth decay.

Final Tally…

Save for the cheapest of clip-on veneers, this trendy type of veneers isn’t really cheap at all when you count the cost of shopping around until you find a decent product, opting for premium versions to achieve a natural and comfortable look, and replacing the prosthesis when it breaks after a year.

For a true movie star smile, contact your dentist and ask about “real” dental veneers.

Having healthy teeth has many advantages. For this reason, and to ensure that the mouth always remains in the best possible condition, it is important to follow a series of simple routines. 

Brush your teeth (and tongue) after every meal. With this practice we will avoid that food remains in the teeth and we will keep our mouth clean in a continuous way.

Use dental floss

This will help us to remove food residues that we have not been able to remove with the brush. This will also reduce the risk of inter dental caries. However, this product should not be abused, as it could irritate the gums. Avoid sudden temperature changes in food. This will help reduce the likelihood of tooth sensitivity. In the case of soft drinks, a straw can be used to consume them. This will also help reduce the likelihood of tooth decay. Drink plenty of water. Water is also an essential element for oral health since its ingestion favours good hydration of the gums and mucous membranes.

Eat healthy!

On the other hand, consuming certain foods also promotes our oral health and helps us to prevent diseases typical for this area. In this sense, we can eat fruits such as melon or watermelon, sardines, salads or dairy products. Melon and watermelon contain more than 90% of water. They are fruits rich in vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as potassium. In addition, melon stands out for being rich in vitamins of the B group and one of them, folic acid, which prevents the formation of ulcers in the mouth.

On the other hand, fish such as sardines contain fluoride that helps prevent the appearance of cavities and those that have Omega 3 fatty acids, can control gingival inflammation. Similarly, tomatoes help prevent different types of cancer, including mouth cancer, and dairy provide calcium, as well as vitamins A and B. It should be noted that this type of food also contributes to a whiter smile during the summer.

Oral problems

If we do not follow healthy habits for our mouths, we can put at risk the health of our teeth and even our general health. In this sense, we can develop from a cavity that ends with the loss of a tooth, to an infection that spreads to other parts of our mouth or body.

It is important that we brush our teeth and tongue after each meal to prevent food from remaining in the mouth. Eating certain types of food will promote oral health and help you to have a whiter smile. See a specialist regularly to check the health of your mouth. If you’re not looking for a white, but for a straight smile, you should check out this webpage: www.smilemeup.com.

If you want a whiter, brighter, Hollywood smile but you don't want to pay for professional dental treatment, what can you do? Several teeth-whitening methods enjoy wide circulation. Some of them work, and others are little more than folklore. It's important to make the right decision as certain proposed methods might damage your teeth or gums.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

 The leading cause of stained and yellowing teeth is a build-up of plaque. Plaque is a substance composed of bacteria and food waste which coats the teeth and destroys the white enamel. There's no escaping that regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing between your teeth, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash is the best way to keep your smile sparkling white. Nonetheless here are some practical methods and popular myths about teeth whitening contributed by Healthy Smiles Stuart’s Dental Office!

Ayurvedic Oil 

Ayurvedic medicine is a 3,000-year-old Indian health system. Over the last few decades, it's enjoyed increasing popularity in the western world and supports a multi-billion dollar industry manufacturing and distributing Ayurvedic preparations. Ayurvedic oil purports to "draw out" bacteria from the teeth and gums. You can try it if you like, and some people swear by it. But there's no scientific evidence to suggest it works. Whatever else it might do, it won't whiten your teeth.

Baking Soda

Brushing your teeth with baking soda is a time-honored solution for putting the shine back in your smile. It's also handy because you most likely have it in your kitchen at home. But does it work?

Research has shown that repeated use over time can help remove stains on the surface of your teeth. The best bet may be to use toothpaste which contains sodium bicarbonate rather than brushing with it straight from the pot. Baking soda has an unpleasant taste and, if you use too much,its abrasive effects could damage your tooth enamel.

An Apple a Day

Eating fruit is good for you. But all fruits are acidic, and while the malic acid in an apple may help curb bacteria, the citric acid in other fruits can damage tooth enamel. Research suggests apples and other fruit have no whitening effect on stained teeth. An apple a day might keep the doctor away, but it's no substitute for a visit to the dentist.

Hydrogen Peroxide Gel

This is the key ingredient in so-called "whitening kits." You can get them over the counter at the drugstore. Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent. Research suggests that regular application over two weeks can whiten teeth. If you opt for this solution, make sure the product you buy has at least a 6% hydrogen peroxide content. But remember it can also cause sore and bleeding gums in some people. It's not a substitute for good oral hygiene.

Rinsing with Cider Vinegar

Despite a body of research which shows beyond reasonable doubt that rinsing your mouth with cider vinegar has no whitening effect on teeth, the idea is very persistent in popular culture. But it's pure folklore. Vinegar is acidic and might even damage your teeth. It's one for the kitchen rather than the bathroom.

Touch-Up with Turmeric?

The bitter Indian spice adds flavor to curries and creates colorful rice dishes. It's a natural dye which can turn white cloth a shade of deep yellow. That it can buff up your teeth to a pearly shine seems absurd. And it is. Experiments show that turmeric is more likely to stain your teeth than clean them. It's another one to leave in the kitchen.

Tobacco, Wine, and Coffee

Quitting smoking or chewing tobacco will help restore the natural whiteness of your teeth. Long-term smokers and tobacco chewers, besides increased risk of cancer and heart disease, also enjoy the dubious pleasure of yellow stained teeth and skin.

Red wine is another offender. The tannins and other chemicals in wine discolor teeth. To avoid the worst effects, drink water with your wine and brush your teeth as soon as possible afterward.

Coffee is the world's favorite pick-me-up beverage. But the dark, bitter fluid will color your teeth a dirty brown. You don't have to give up coffee to keep your teeth white. As with wine, drink water afterward and brush your teeth as soon as you can.

Don't Dodge the Dentist

Whatever home remedies you try, the dentist is your true friend for keeping a mouth full of glittering pearly-whites. A professional clean and buff from the dentist is the best remedial action if you already have stained teeth. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are the best ways to prevent your teeth from discoloration. Your teeth are worth looking after well. After all, they say everyone is beautiful when they smile.

Learn more about the pros and cons of wisdom teeth removal.

Wisdom teeth are probably among the most misunderstood teeth ever. Should they stay? Should they go? Are they just a nuisance? The real answer is that there is not just a single answer to this particular question. In fact, there are many possible answers. It all depends on the specific circumstances of the patient.

In some cases, wisdom teeth can grow without a hassle, and they don’t really cause concern. In other circumstances, they can grow in sideways, or crooked, in ways that might eventually push the rest of a person’s teeth out of alignment. In some cases, wisdom teeth growing the wrong way can cause pain and severe distress to the entire jaw, and in extreme cases, even the back and spine of the patient.

For this reason, many people opt for surgery as a way to control the problem and get rid of issues related to their wisdom teeth once and for all.

Wisdom teeth might not always fit behind an individual’s second set of molars due to the development of the jaw. In some cases, they can become impacted (blocked below the gum line) and push other teeth out of alignment. For this reason, proactive wisdom teeth removal is actually really common. This is a preventative removal, which will prevent wisdom teeth from doing any damage whatsoever.

On the other hand, many dentists are aware that removing wisdom teeth could be a stressful operation for some people. For this reason, they tend to recommend retaining wisdom teeth and keep a close watch on them, only recommending surgery when strictly necessary.

The removal of wisdom teeth could have various surgical complications, exposing a person to the risk of infection, bleeding and other unlikely, yet possible repercussions. However, the removal of wisdom teeth also brings a wide range of benefits, including protecting the rest of your teeth, gums and bite alignment in the long run. Wisdom teeth are also a common cause of tooth decay, infection and gum disease.

Wisdom tooth extraction is something that should be considered very carefully. Talk to your doctor and dentist at length to determine the best course of action for you. Your dental team will be able to suggest the best route to adopt in your particular situation.

The removal of wisdom teeth is definitely one of the most discussed topics in dentistry today, and even seasoned professionals in the industry have contrasting opinions about it. However, it is really all down to you. Wisdom teeth could either be harmless, or they could produce a wide range of issues. It’s up to you to determine whether you’d be better off with or without them!

Although very rare, many fear that complications related to sedation dentistry are reason enough to not consider this comfortable alternative to traditional dental procedures.

Is dental sedation safe? As with any type of medical procedure, there will always be risks in dentistry. In theory, even something as simple as getting a filling could result in complications; but the same can be said for medical treatments like getting stitches or a biopsy. Dentistry is not off the hook when it comes to potential health complications, especially if there are underlying medical conditions that the patient or their healthcare provider doesn’t know about.  Having sedation performed by anesthesia professionals, even those in a hospital setting, will always require some type of waiver or informed consent.

Fortunately, dental sedation procedures have a much lower death rate(nearly three times less) than anesthesia performed in hospital operating rooms.  In most cases, the only side-effect of anesthesia performed by dental experts like oral surgeons is nausea, affecting approximately 6% of patients.  

Pre-Screening Patients

Your provider will generally work with you to discuss common risk factors such as medical conditions that could cause complications if not disclosed.

Because licensed sedation dentists understand the responsibility of ensuring your safety, it’s essential to complete a thorough screening and health assessment with your dental provider before undergoing sedation. Even something as simple as a food allergy should be disclosed, regardless as to whether you feel it’s applicable or not. By having a thorough assessment of your entire health history, a licensed sedation dentist can safely administer regulated medications that allow for a comfortable and positive dental experience.

Most sedation dentistry experts, including those responsible for educating and training new sedation dentists, agree that the more dangerous alternative is to leave oral infections untreated, which can sometimes result in life-threatening illnesses requiring hospitalization or even death, especially in young children. Sedation makes it possible for such patients to access the level of care they require in a safe and calm environment. Without sedation, many anxious patients or those with severe dental phobia typically go without receiving the care that they need and deserve.

The Biggest Risk Factors

Mortality with sedation dentistry is extremely rare, with most cases occurring in developing countries or in patients with compromised health conditions.

In the United States, all dentists offering sedation must complete extensive training and licensure to offer specific types of sedative medications within their practice. Not all dentists are qualified to perform the same level of sedation or have experience with different types of sedative procedures.

Find a licensed sedation dentist near you to learn more about their individual accreditations and experience. During your initial consultation feel free to ask questions about how many sedation procedures they’ve completed or if they have experience seeing patients with similar medical concerns. You can also ask to see his or her qualifications or find out which type of sedation training they’ve completed, or learn more about the courses they’ve participated in. Similar licensing information should always be displayed within the practice setting or available online through licensure verification provided by the governing state dental board.

A new form of pet dentistry is sweeping the veterinary industry.  Does your dog have several missing or broken teeth?  Does his tongue hang out of his mouth? Does your dog have trouble eating?  Well, if you knew you could improve your pet’s life by replacing his teeth with dental implants, would you do it?

What is a Pet Dental Implant?

Essentially, pet dental implants are the same thing your local dentist does on humans every day. An implant is a titanium, surgical grade post that is placed within the bone. There, it mimics the design and function of a natural tooth root. 

Once inserted, there is some time that will be needed for your pet to generate additional bone around it. When integration occurs, the bone tightly fuses to the threads around the implant, securing it in place. In humans, as with animals, this takes several weeks to months. 

Once the implant is stabilized, the doctor will have a restoration (crown, bridge, etc.) made and attached to the implant. In order to do this, your pet will have to undergo anesthesia so that they can get a good impression of their mouth. The restoration is custom fabricated at a laboratory.

When it’s ready, you’ll return for a final visit for the “tooth” to be put on. 

Gum Disease and Dental Implants

Many healthcare professionals are apprehensive about the thought of animals with dental implants. Since they are placed within the bone, it’s essential that this foundation stays healthy.  The reason a lot of pets lose their teeth in the first place is due to gum disease that has gotten so bad, it deteriorated the jaw bone. 

Dentists believe that affected animals would have to have impeccable oral hygiene in order for the implant to remain successful. We all know a dog can’t brush his own teeth, so this would be up to the owner to do. And unfortunately, there aren’t too many people out there who are willing to brush and floss their dogs’ teeth daily. Nor are most pets okay with having it done to them that often.

What is the Cost of a Dental Implants for My Pet?

With such a high risk of developing gum disease - which can cause the implant to fail - owners may be reluctant to make this investment for their pet.  There isn’t a lot of information available yet regarding how much a pet dental implant costs. But the average cost for a human is around $2,000. As mentioned, there are a few steps to doing this procedure. And since your pet will need to undergo general anesthesia each time, the fee for that service alone will add to the overall costs.

Is it Still too Early to Tell?

Still being in its early stages it’s hard to determine exactly what the benefits of dental implants in animals are. There are a lot of theoretical concepts still to be determined. But in time, we’ll get all the answers we need in order for pet owners to make a more educated decision based on real-life statistics.

Your teeth have many natural ridges that curve up and down. With age, these ridges naturally flatten and become less pronounced. If you see your teeth, you’ll be able to spot these ridges for yourself. However, not all tooth wear is natural. Passed a certain threshold, tooth wear can change from a natural process which occurs over a long period time, and instead become a common symptom of TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, especially when this tooth wear is accompanied by muscle soreness in the jaw or frequent headaches.

Normal wear doesn’t destroy teeth. If you’ve experience cracked or chipped teeth recently, or, worse, on a regular basis, then there is a high likelihood you’re experiencing accelerated tooth wear. When wear has passed a certain point, it can begin to damage the translucent outer layer of your teeth known as enamel, exposing dentin, or even the soft pulp inside your teeth. Dental implants may offer a solution for some teeth. By definition, normal tooth wear refers to an average amount of wear experienced by others of the same age. If your teeth seem more worn than others of your age, you should see a dentist. How can you tell the level of your wear? If your teeth look shorter than most people your age, that may be a sign of wear. It may also be indicated by the amount of pain you may experience while eating, or if you teeth are sensitivity to hot and cold.

Normal levels of tooth wear happens at a consistent rate, based on the food you eat and the force of your jaw. Because we eat a similar amount of food every year, we should experience the same amount of wear each time you visit the dentist for a checkup. However, if your tooth wear is related to issues such as a crooked bite, or a condition known as bruxism, tooth grinding, the rate of wear can accelerate. Other factors could also be at play, such as the natural position of your jaw. TMJ that has advanced past a certain point can misalign the bite, and cause added pressure.

The best way to both assess and stop tooth wear is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. You can check with a top dentist in Prescott, AZ. With a consultation, a dentist can examine your mouth for tooth wear and then suggest a treatment option that works for you. Often the most common cause of accelerated tooth wear is bruxism, or teeth grinding. By measuring whether tooth wear is constrained to one side of the mouth, a dentist can then provide a drug-free treatment option like a custom designed mouthguard. If, however, your tooth wear is accompanied by symptoms of TMJ, then treatment should focus on that, as TMJ can be a progressive disorder capable of causing permanent damage to the jaw and mouth.

Unlike home costs, cars, gas, postage stamps, and other things that have adjusted with inflation rates since the 1970s, your dental insurance hasn’t.  That annual amount of coverage has stayed consistently around $1,500 or thereabouts. Which begs the question…how do you afford treatments when they aren’t covered by your plan?

Join an In-House Dental Plan

A lot of dentists are starting to offer tailored savings programs for their patients without dental insurance. It usually works like a type of a membership plan, where you pay a flat fee to join and then take advantage of included services (routine cleanings, exams, etc.) or receive a fixed rate off of all treatments. The details vary from office to office, but it’s a dental financing plan worth asking about if you don’t have insurance coverage.

Use Your Flex Spending/Health Savings Account

Your FSA doesn’t just cover things like over the counter medication, prescription drugs, or trips to the doctor’s office. It also includes your dental treatments and can be used with or without your existing insurance coverage.

If you’re planning on a certain type of treatment coming up, you can pay into your FSA and save on taxable income for the year while you’re at it. Once you’ve saved up enough for the procedure or you’re at your FSA cap investment, you can use it like you would a debit card to pay for services at your dentist’s office.

Apply for 0% Financing

Most dental offices have some sort of low-interest of 0% financing programs for their patients. This may be something in-house or offered through a 3^rd party lender such as CareCredit.

The way these types of programs usually works is that you’re able to apply for the line of credit, receive immediate approval and access to funds (to start treatment the same day) and as long as you pay the balance off in the required timeframe — usually 12 to 18 months — you can pay no interest on your dental financing.

Ask for a Cash Discount

When your dentist works with an insurance plan, they’re committed to charging rates that are dictated by the insurer. This may be much less than what other comparable dentists in the area are charging. But if you don’t have insurance, those fees are reset back to the base rate charged by the practice. If you offer to pay for your treatment in full, with cash at the time of your appointment, you can usually get another 3-5% off of the cost of the procedure.

Seniors, armed forces, and community service members such as teachers and police officers are usually offered some type of discount when they call to make an appointment.

Don’t Put Off Treatment

As tempting as it can be, don’t avoid getting any dental treatment that isn’t elective. The fastest way to increase the cost and extent of your oral care is to allow existing issues — like tooth decay and gum disease — to be left untreated. Your small cavity today can be an abscessed tooth by your next checkup.

Talk to your dentist to learn more about the dental financing plans offered by their practice.