If you suspect you have an infected tooth, you might wonder if root canal treatment might be in your future. Do you have another option? Yes! One such alternative has been in existence for decades, but has only recently come to be more effective due to advancements in materials. This process is called pulp capping.
Pulp capping can help patients whose root infections have not yet reached the tooth’s nerve. Root infections begin when bacteria enters the pulp of the tooth through a crack or a large cavity. In a standard root canal procedure, the pulp and nerve of the tooth is hollowed out, cleaned and sealed, typically with a crown restoration.
With pulp capping, the nerve is preserved and the tooth is often repaired with a filling instead of a crown. Pulp capping allows the dentist to clean and protect the pulp, defending it from infection with medicine. With a successful pulp cap, the dentin of the tooth begins to regrow over the pulp cap. Advancements in the sealants used during these types of procedures has allowed for a greater percentage of success.
If you have a toothache, it’s important to see your dentist immediately. Pulp capping has a narrow window in which it can be performed. If your tooth is too infected, the pulp and nerve of your tooth may already be infected, and it’s too late for pulp capping to be effective.
A pulp cap is a far less invasive procedure than a root canal treatment or a tooth extraction, and there is less recovery time and tooth sensitivity following the treatment.
If you suspect you may have a tooth in trouble, talk to your dentist now. You might be able to save yourself a root canal treatment.
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There are times when a tooth is so severely damaged by decay, trauma, or cracking that a simple filling isn’t the best option. In these situations, a dental crown may be recommended to restore the tooth’s health and functionality. If a tooth is missing entirely, your dentist might suggest a dental bridge to close the gap and maintain your oral health.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown, also known as a “cap,” is designed to completely cover and protect a damaged tooth. Once bonded in place, the crown offers a stable, strong, and aesthetically pleasing replacement for the original tooth. Custom-made using impressions of your teeth, the crown matches the size, shape, and position of your natural tooth for a seamless appearance.
Dental crowns are an ideal solution for a severely compromised tooth. They eliminate discomfort, provide tooth stability, and preserve your appearance. Depending on the material chosen, your crown can look and feel as natural as your original tooth.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is used to span a gap caused by a missing tooth. Having such a gap isn’t just a cosmetic concern; it can lead to difficulties with chewing and speaking. Additionally, neighboring teeth may shift into the empty space, increasing the risk of gum disease and jaw complications.
Dental bridges literally bridge the gap by anchoring to the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. These bordering teeth are trimmed to support crowns, which act as anchors for the bridge. Between the two crowns, a replacement tooth is custom-made to fit the space perfectly. With a dental bridge, you can regain your ability to eat and speak properly, and it helps maintain the natural shape of your face and lips.
Longevity and Care
Dental crowns and bridges are excellent long-term solutions for maintaining dental health and can last a lifetime with proper care. To avoid damage to your dental work, refrain from chewing on hard items like ice or hard candy. Additionally, maintaining regular dental checkups is essential for preserving the integrity of your crowns and bridges.
If you are considering dental crowns or bridges, visit our Sicklerville dental office for professional advice and personalized care.
We offer dental crowns and bridges at our Sicklerville dental office.
Dental implants offer a remarkable solution for replacing missing teeth. However, selecting a qualified, experienced, and knowledgeable dentist to perform the procedure is crucial for ensuring the success of your implant. While well-placed and well-maintained implants can last a lifetime, improper placement can lead to complications or even complete failure. Here are key factors to consider when choosing an implant dentist:
Is the dentist a board-certified implant specialist?
While any dentist can legally place implants, it’s important to choose one who specializes in “Prosthodontics,” as recognized by the American Dental Association.
How much experience does the dentist have with implants?
The ideal dentist should have extensive experience in implant placement, having successfully completed hundreds of procedures and performing them regularly.
What specific training has the dentist undergone for implant surgery?
A reputable implant dentist will have undergone more than just basic training in implant procedures, and will maintain their knowledge through ongoing education and advanced courses.
Can the dentist provide before-and-after photos of their work?
It’s essential to see real examples of the dentist’s work, not stock photos. A skilled implant dentist should be able to show you images of previous patients’ implants and provide recommendations from them.
Can the dentist explain the different types of implants?
A highly qualified dentist will be familiar with a variety of implant types and will be able to recommend the best option based on your specific needs and restoration goals.
Choosing the right implant dentist is a critical step in the implant process, and it’s essential for achieving a successful outcome. Take your time to ensure that the dentist you choose has the experience, skill, and knowledge to make your implant procedure worry-free.
Ready to transform your smile? Schedule your appointment today at our Sicklerville dental office.
Tooth stains, chips, cracks, and discolorations can keep you from letting others see your teeth. If you are self-conscious about your smile, then dental veneers may be the answer for you. Veneers can correct a variety of imperfections and give you a natural, beautiful smile.
What are dental veneers?
Made from tooth-colored porcelain, veneers are attached to the front of your natural teeth. They feel just like the rest of your teeth, and are durable and do not irritate your gums. Since porcelain is resistant to stains, you’re able to eat and drink as you wish. Good oral hygiene helps keep veneers and your natural teeth strong and healthy.
What are the benefits of getting veneers?
There’s a reason that veneers are one of the most popular options in cosmetic dentistry. They provide a solution to many problems and can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile. Veneers are the answer for tough stains or discolorations that can’t be repaired by teeth whitening. They can also make your teeth look straight and even. Veneers provide an answer for chipped or broken teeth too.
Are there any disadvantages?
The main thing to remember is that your original tooth might need to be reshaped to a smaller size and shape to allow the new, thin coating of the veneer to be placed over it. The coating will make your tooth look like a normal, perfectly shaped tooth. However, if the veneer is ever removed, it would need to be replaced to keep your smile looking nice. Dental veneers are a life-long solution to creating your best smile.
Do not let another day go by without taking care of your dental needs. Request an appointment now at our Sicklerville dental office!
If you have to think twice about smiling because you’re embarrassed about your yellowed teeth, then it’s time to do something about it. You might consider having your teeth professionally whitened for quick and effective results, but first, you may want to try whitening your smile at home with these natural methods.
Hydrogen peroxide:
Most teeth whitening products you find on store shelves contain hydrogen peroxide. The liquid creates bubbles on your tooth enamel that helps remove stains. The higher the concentration of peroxide and the longer you leave it on, the whiter your teeth will become. However, be careful because too much contact can lead to tooth sensitivity. Some people enhance the whitening properties of hydrogen peroxide by mixing it with baking soda to form a paste to put on the teeth.
Strawberries:
Regularly using strawberries on your teeth can whiten them. Just cut them in half and rub them on your teeth, allowing the juice to penetrate. After a while of using this technique, you should notice your teeth becoming brighter.
Lemon or orange peels:
Rubbing the peels of lemons or oranges against your teeth and leaving the residue on for a few minutes can whiten your smile. Be sure to rinse your mouth afterward. Don’t leave the peel extracts on your teeth for too long because the acidic content may eventually harm your tooth enamel.
Apple cider vinegar:
Stubborn stains like those from coffee or smoking can be especially hard to eliminate. Rubbing apple cider vinegar on your teeth is one way to combat persistent stains. Apply it for no more than ten minutes and then rinse your mouth, because you don’t want to damage your tooth enamel. It takes one to two months of consistent daily use to achieve a whiter smile.
Brush immediately:
The most well-known way to maintain a white smile is to brush your teeth after every meal, as well as after drinking a dark-colored beverage. This helps get rid of stains and prevent new ones from forming.
Are dental issues holding you back? Take control of your oral health by booking an appointment with our experienced team at our Sicklerville dental office.
Sports and Energy Drinks: A Hidden Danger to Your Teeth
While sports and energy drinks may seem like a healthy choice for a post-workout boost or late-night study session, they can have a significant negative impact on your oral health. Surprisingly, research has shown that these drinks are up to 10 times more harmful to your teeth than cola.
Why Are These Drinks So Harmful?
The primary issue lies in their high acidity levels. Manufacturers add acids to balance the sweetness of these beverages, but this acidity can erode your tooth enamel even more aggressively than soft drinks. Once the enamel is compromised, your teeth become more vulnerable to cavities and other oral health problems.
Additionally, the way people consume these drinks contributes to the damage. Sipping on them throughout the day constantly exposes teeth to acid, compounding the risk of enamel erosion and decay.
Protecting Your Teeth from Damage
Here are some tips to enjoy these drinks while minimizing their harm:
- Use a Straw: Drinking through a straw reduces the amount of contact the liquid has with your teeth, protecting them from prolonged exposure to acid.
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum: This stimulates saliva production, which naturally rinses away acids and protects your teeth.
- Brush After Drinking: Cleaning your teeth immediately after consuming sugary or acidic beverages helps remove residue and safeguard your enamel.
- Choose Water First: Water is the best choice for hydration and oral health. Reducing your intake of sodas, sports drinks, and energy beverages will benefit your teeth and overall well-being.
Take these simple precautions to preserve your smile and promote good dental health.
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