Crowns and Bridges

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel pain. Some discomfort and swelling after the surgery are normal and can be managed with pain relievers.

Initial recovery can take a few days to a week, but full healing and integration of the implant with the jawbone can take several months. Follow your dentist's care instructions for optimal recovery.

Dental implants offer superior durability, stability, and a natural appearance. They prevent bone loss, do not affect adjacent teeth, and provide a permanent solution compared to dentures or bridges.

Care for dental implants like natural teeth: brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit your dentist for routine check-ups. Avoid hard foods and chewing on non-food items to prevent damage.

Medisave can be used to cover the surgical components of dental implants, such as the implant placement surgery. However, it cannot be used for prosthetics like the crown or bridges. Check with your clinic to see if they offer Medisave claims for your procedure.

Root canal treatment is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort or sensitivity after the treatment is normal and can be managed with pain relievers.

After a root canal treatment, you may experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. It's important to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it's fully restored with a crown.

While rare, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can become reinfected if the filling or crown is damaged, or if new decay occurs. Proper care and regular dental visits can help prevent reinfection.

With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime. Ensuring that the tooth is protected with a crown and maintaining good oral hygiene are crucial for the longevity of the treated tooth.

The primary alternative to root canal treatment is tooth extraction, followed by options to replace the missing tooth, such as a dental implant, bridge, or denture. However, saving the natural tooth with a root canal is generally preferred.

Oral surgery treats various conditions, including impacted teeth, cysts, tumors, oral cancer, and severe infections. It also addresses structural issues like jaw misalignment and trauma-related injuries.

The oral cavity can show signs of systemic diseases, such as autoimmune, hematologic, endocrine, and neoplastic conditions. Symptoms may include oral ulcerations, changes in the salivary glands, dry mouth, and enamel erosion.

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form in soft or hard tissues, like the jawbone. They are typically benign and surgically removed to prevent further complications and ensure oral health.

White lesions, or leukoplakia, appear in the mouth due to trauma or irritation. While most are benign, some may be precancerous. An excisional biopsy is recommended to determine the nature of the lesion and appropriate treatment.

Lichen planus is a net-like lesion caused by an autoimmune condition. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, such as oral ulcerations and dry mouth, to improve comfort and prevent further complications.

Preparation involves following your dentist's instructions, which may include fasting before anesthesia, arranging transportation, and understanding the post-operative care plan. Proper preparation ensures a smooth procedure and recovery.

Recovery involves managing pain and swelling, following a soft food diet, and maintaining oral hygiene. Your dentist will provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent complications.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the extraction. Some discomfort and swelling are normal post-surgery but can be managed with prescribed pain relievers.

Initial healing typically takes about one to two weeks. Full recovery, including the healing of the extraction site, can take several weeks to a few months. Following your dentist's post-operative care instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery.

Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that can irritate the extraction site. Gradually reintroduce regular foods as you heal.

Apply ice packs to your face for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling. Take prescribed pain medications as directed, and keep your head elevated when resting. Rinsing your mouth gently with salt water can also aid in healing.

Most patients take a few days off to recover. You might need more time if your job or school activities are physically demanding. Resting and allowing your body to heal is important for a quick recovery.

Follow your dentist's instructions, which may include fasting if general anesthesia will be used. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure and stock up on soft foods and any prescribed medications.

Implants are titanium replacements for missing teeth. They can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. They are placed surgically in the bone. After a few months, they form a very strong bond with the bone, and then artificial crowns or a denture can be secured over the implants. For patients who have difficulty chewing because of missing teeth, or who are tired of their dentures slipping and sliding in the mouth, dental implants offer a secure solution for replacing teeth.

Implants as a solution to missing teeth has been practiced for a few decades. Generally, because of advances in implant dentistry over the years, dental implants can have success rates above 90% in natural bone. Having said that, success rates depend on many factors, for example, the patient’s own health status or whether he/she is a smoker. Although at the present time we cannot put a figure down as to the longevity of implants, it is known that the first patient who had implants placed in 1965 still has them in function today. Of course, regular checkups and diligently maintaining one’s oral hygiene is also of utmost importance in preventing failure.

Aesthetically, they support teeth that look very natural, greatly enhancing your smile and confidence. Functionally, dental implants allow you to eat and speak without pain or discomfort, and increases chewing efficiency. Biologically, implants can help prevent atrophy or shrinkage of your bone and this in turn supports your facial tissues.

Every patient’s need is unique. Your treatment cost depends on your particular needs. After a complete examination and consultation, your dental needs will be more specifically determined and the most viable treatment option proposed to you. At this point, treatment cost can then be more accurately ascertained.

There are generally two stages: Stage 1: An incision is made in the gums and the implants are placed into the jawbone. The gums are then closed up and to allow healing to take place. It usually takes just about 3 months for the implant to integrate with the bone or longer if bone grafting is involved. Stage 2: The second and final stage is to secure the new tooth or teeth to the implant structure. Implants can support a single tooth, multiple teeth or dentures

As long as you are generally in good health and have adequate bone, you can have dental implants.

Dental implants are placed in the jaw under local anaesthesia and so the patient feels absolutely no pain at all during the procedure. After the anaesthetic wears off, there may be slight discomfort, usually manageable with painkillers. In fact, many patients have reported that they didn’t even need to take any painkillers.

During initial consultation, x-rays are needed to evaluate the availability of bone. Impressions of the upper and lower jaws are then taken to be made into models so that the thickness of the bone can be gauged and a diagnostic mock up of the teeth is done so as to plan the position of the implant/s to be placed. Intra oral photographs are also taken as part of the diagnostic process. Once the essential information is obtained and treatment planning confirmed, first stage surgery can then be done.

If you have had the experience of having lost one or more teeth, you may know all too well what it’s like to live with an unattractive smile, reduced biting efficiency, embarrassment from loose dentures, and pain or difficulty with eating. Fabricating a bridge to replace the missing teeth usually necessitates trimming down adjacent, sometimes perfectly healthy natural teeth. Dentures sometimes can be bulky, unstable or painful during function or speech. Over time, the bone at the toothless area can undergo “bone atrophy”, or loss of bone height and width. This can lead to functional and aesthetic problems. Placing an implant in the bone can prevent atrophy.

It is very important that patients who have dental implants maintain their own oral hygiene diligently. This of course includes brushing, flossing and sometimes using other cleaning aids like an interproximal brush. Regular dental checkups and professional maintenance are vital to ensure longevity of the implants.

It is recommended to visit your dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning. However, some individuals may need more frequent visits based on their oral health needs.

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco products. Regular check-ups will complement these efforts to keep your mouth healthy.

If you have dental anxiety, communicate this with your dentist. Many dental offices offer solutions such as sedation dentistry, calming environments, and techniques to help you feel more comfortable during your visit.

Common signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and loose teeth.

Regular dental check-ups every six months are recommended, but your dentist may suggest more frequent visits if you have gum issues.

Yes, using fluoride toothpaste, antiseptic mouthwash, and dental tools like water flossers can enhance gum health.

Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, is essential. Avoiding foods and drinks that stain, like coffee and red wine, can also help keep your smile looking its best.

Anyone looking to improve their smile can benefit from aesthetic dentistry. It's especially helpful for individuals with stained, chipped, misaligned, or missing teeth.

During your first consultation, the dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend treatment options. They may also take X-rays or impressions to plan your customized treatment.

Coverage depends on your insurance plan. Some aesthetic procedures might be partially covered if they also have a functional benefit. It's best to check with your insurance provider for specific details.

With proper care, crowns and bridges can last 10-15 years or even longer. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are crucial for their longevity.

The procedure is typically not painful, as it is performed under local anesthesia. You may experience some discomfort after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

The procedure typically requires two visits. The first visit involves preparation and impressions, while the second visit, usually a few weeks later, is for fitting and placement.

Braces are recommended for individuals with crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth, as well as those with bite problems such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite. An orthodontist can determine if braces are the right solution for you.

The duration varies depending on the complexity of the case, but most people wear braces for 18 to 24 months. Your orthodontist will provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific needs.

Braces can cause some discomfort, especially after adjustments. This usually subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients adjust to the sensation over time.

There are several types of braces, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners. Your orthodontist will help you choose the best option based on your needs and preferences.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Brush and floss regularly, avoid sticky and hard foods that can damage the braces, and follow your orthodontist's instructions for care and maintenance to ensure effective treatment.

If a bracket or wire breaks, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment. In the meantime, you can use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges and prevent discomfort.