FAQs
Implants
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
If you are missing one or more teeth, you can be a candidate for dental implants. You may be missing any number of teeth. However, it is best if you have enough bone in the jaw and are free of gum disease and periodontal disease. It is also recommended for those who don’t want to or are unable to wear dentures. Besides, you must not have any condition that affects bone healing.
What are the benefits?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. Once you lose a permanent tooth due to gum disease or dental decay, dental implants give you the chance to get the same experience as a permanent tooth. They can last much longer than other dental work if you take proper care. They can also improve your looks, ability to take food, and boost your confidence.
How much pain can the procedure cause?
You should expect a certain degree of discomfort during the procedure. It can vary from one person to another. However, the level of discomfort is not as severe as most people anticipate. During the procedure, you will be given an anesthetic. Thus, you will not feel any discomfort. We have clean procedure room environments and we use only gentle techniques, thus reducing discomfort and eliminating any risk of infection.
How long does the procedure take to complete?
There are a number of factors that affect how long your dental implant procedure can take. These factors include your general dental health, the number of teeth that need the procedure, and the need for tooth extraction. Typical procedures involve 2 phases and they can take 3 to 9 months to complete. Patients who require bone grafts or have extractions that need healing can expect even longer timelines.
How long will my dental implants last?
Routine dental care and regular dental check-ups and cleanings are important factors in the longevity of your dental implants. Dental implants have a unique edge over natural teeth in that they are not vulnerable to decay and diseases. The condition of your gums will also have an impact on how long your implant lasts. Your medical history and a number of other factors will also affect the longevity of your implants.
What should I avoid after my procedure?
Smoking is a big ‘NO’ after getting a dental implant. It can cause gum recession and gum disease, thus weakening the implant structure. You should also avoid the application of any form of heat to your face. It can cause swelling. The use of straws can damage the closed wound as it applies a certain amount of pressure. You should avoid anything that can increase the risk of bleeding.
Do dental implants have a success rate?
Yes, dental implants do have a success rate parameter because there are many factors involved. Usually, they should be effective and successful up to 95% of the time. The success rate can vary from one person to another, depending on their habits and health. If you have good oral health and hygiene, and good overall health, you should expect the highest success rate.
Can I remove my dental implants like dentures?
Your dental implants are not removable. They are permanent fixtures. They are attached to the bone in the jawline. This is the closest fixture that comes to your natural teeth. Our dentist will check your medical history and conduct several tests to ensure that you don’t have any previous allergy to titanium. We will take all precautions before starting the procedure.
Can dental implants help me if I have dentures?
Implants are commonly used by people who have partial or full dentures. They are often used to provide support and retention for dentures. This helps fix the denture in place, thus reducing the need for adhesives or glue. Implants can also be used with fixed dentures. In this case, the dentures can be fixed to your implants. However, once fixed they can be removed only by your dentist.
How are dental implants better than other tooth replacement procedures?
Aesthetically, your dental implants will look just like your natural teeth. They will even work like them. Implants also help prevent bone loss. This is the closest to natural teeth that a procedure can get you. You will feel confident about your smile and engage in talking, drinking, and eating without any second thoughts about your teeth budging from their place.
Teeth Extraction
Will tooth extraction cause pain?
You should not expect any discomfort or pain when your tooth is removed. This is because our dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area. If you are concerned about the injection, we can also apply a topical numbing agent. If a tooth has decayed, it may have dead nerve endings, thus further eliminating pain. Depending on the tooth’s condition, some users may feel a little pressure when the tooth is removed.
How long will the recovery take?
Once we have completed your tooth extraction, we will provide you with elaborate instructions for post-extraction care at home. These steps will help prevent any infections and speed up the recovery process. The recovery period is going to vary from one patient to another. The steps will include using ice packs, saline water, keeping head at an elevation, and avoiding certain food types.
When will I need to get a tooth extraction?
Our dentist will check your dental health and recommend extraction if you have the following issues:
- Overcrowding: When your upper and lower jaws overlap.
- Teeth Alignment: In order to prepare for teeth alignment.
- Dental Decay: If you have a severely damaged tooth that cannot be treated with root canal procedure.
- Impacted Wisdom Tooth: Of your wisdom teeth get trapped under the jaw, causing pain.
- Damaged Teeth: If the tooth structure, nerves, and roots are damaged.
- Periodontal Disease: If diseases cause teeth loosening or weakening.
What is involved in the teeth extraction procedure?
The procedure is done to remove the tooth and its root. The tooth root is the area within the gum line. The process will vary based on the dental issue and its severity. A basic extraction process involves numbing the gum and using special pliers to pull at the teeth. The gums are then sanitized and stitched for healing. The stitches will usually disintegrate after some time. Surgical extractions are usually conducted on impacted wisdom teeth. It may involve IV sedation.
What should I expect in post-extraction care?
After the extraction, we will place gauze on the site which may require slight pressure for a little time for the blood clot to form. You should take many precautions as aftercare. This includes avoiding smoking, alcohol, using straws, and carbonated drinks. If you have swelling, a cold compress at intervals of 20 minutes is recommended after 24 hours of the procedure. Cold liquids followed by soft foods are recommended for the first few days.
Will I need more dental procedures after my teeth extraction?
Once a tooth is extracted, it will leave a gap between your teeth. This increases the risk of the teeth shifting, causing the structure to weaken. So, it will be required to fill these gaps. You will have to visit our office for procedures including dental implants, bridges, and veneers. The type of procedure will depend on your dental condition.
What are the common benefits of tooth extraction?
The benefits you can expect from the procedure will depend on the reason why your dentist recommends the extraction. Most commonly, it will provide relief from any existing toothache. If you have a rotting tooth, extraction can prevent the rot from spreading to other teeth. If you have periodontal infections, it can help it from recurring, allowing the gum to heal. Tooth extraction may also be required to prepare the oral condition for reconstruction.
What is the risk of a dry socket after the procedure?
After your tooth extraction, it is important that you follow all the aftercare steps. If you don’t, it increases the risk of dry socket creation. The socket must have blood flow to ensure effective healing. If it becomes a dry socket, it can cause a lot of pain. If this happens, you must visit our office to get the socket cleansed.
How long will my gums take to heal?
The amount of time it takes for your gums to heal depends on the number of teeth involved, their location, and the severity of the procedure. Most of our patients recover within 7 to 14 days of the procedure. However, the full recovery time can be much longer. The recovery period will further depend on the rate of bone growth in your gums.
Can I rinse with a mouth wash after the extraction?
It is recommended to avoid the use of mouth wash for a few days. You should rather use warm salt water to rinse your mouth after the extraction. Once you swish the water, avoid spitting. Spitting can create a force/pressure that can dislodge the blood clot from the socket, creating the dry socket problem. The rinse must flow out of your mouth without creating any force of suction.
Braces
How will braces help me?
Braces work by creating gentle force in the desired direction. This force causes compression on the periodontal ligament (PDL) on one side while stretching it on the other side. On the side where there is compression, the bone is reabsorbed and on the other side, there is bone growth. Thus, teeth movement takes place due to bone creation and bone loss on different sides. Thus, the results are permanent.
Is there is an age for getting braces?
There is no age for getting braces. They can be effective in teenagers and adults. When it comes to kids, 10 to 14 is considered the best age group for getting braces because their mouth is still growing and permanent teeth are coming. It is recommended that every child should see an orthodontist for an assessment when they are 7 or 8. However, many of our patients are above 21. Braces can align your bite and increase your confidence. Your oral health benefits significantly when your teeth are straightened.
How to know if I need braces?
This depends on the structure of your teeth and mouth and what you desire from your smile. If you have concerns about any of these factors, you should schedule an appointment with our dentist. Once we examine your oral health and discuss your condition and options, we will be able to recommend whether braces can help you with your goals. The goals can include cosmetic reasons, straightening the teeth, and correcting the bite.
Do braces cause hurt?
Braces will not generally hurt. Some patients are likely to experience minor discomfort for a couple of days because their teeth, gums, and mouth have to get used to them. You may feel a little sensitive after wearing them the first time, but it goes away after they settle in. You shouldn’t feel pain when wearing braces. In a very rare case, if you experience any pain, you should call us.
How long will I have to wear my braces?
Your orthodontic problem determines your treatment time and this determines how long you will have to wear your braces. The severity of your problem and the type of braces used also affect the duration. Usually, patients wear them from 12 to 30 months. When it comes to children, the duration varies based on the problem and the child’s oral growth. Interestingly, good oral hygiene, follow-up appointments, avoiding certain foods, and using auxiliaries also affect the time.
How often should I brush my teeth after wearing braces?
Those with braces are recommended to brush their teeth at least 3 times a day. You should brush every time you have had food. It is important to remove any food that gets caught between the braces. It is also recommended to floss daily to reach areas where your brush cannot. Once we place your braces, we will guide you on how to brush and floss effectively.
Will braces interfere with my activities?
Braces do require a little time to adjust when you first wear them on. Once they have settled in and you get used to them, they will not interfere with your activities. You can even continue with your singing practice without any interference. Whether you like to play instruments or engage in contact sports, you can continue with them after the initial adjustment. It is recommended to put on a mouthguard when you play some contact sport.
Will I need dental checkups after wearing my braces?
Braces are a type of orthodontic treatment. It will be required to visit your dentist regularly after you put them on. Even when you brush and floss as per recommendations, food can get caught in areas where brushing and flossing cannot reach. Part of the regular checkup is to clean such areas to prevent bacterial build-up that can otherwise cause cavities, gum disease, and gingivitis. Appointments are usually held 4 to 8 weeks apart to check progress and adjust the braces.
Are there any eating limitations with braces?
When you wear braces, you should stick to taking soft foods. Avoid taking big pieces of food and cut them into small pieces. It is important that you know the types of foods that you must avoid. Avoid:
- Hard foods
- Crunchy foods
- Chewy foods
- Sticky foods
- Sugary foods
It is best to avoid foods that you have to bite into. Examples include apples, cob, and carrots. You can enjoy all your favorite foods after your braces are removed.
What happens after my braces are taken off?
The brackets and wires will be removed using special tools and the process will not hurt at all. We will remove any leftover polishes or adhesive on the teeth before you can view your beautiful new smile. You will be required to wear a retaining to help retain your teeth in their position. Only clear and comfortable retainers are used that are unnoticeable.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Why will I need cosmetic dentistry?
There are many reasons why you may need cosmetic dentistry treatments. The most common reasons why people come to our dental office is because they have crooked or missing teeth or they are seeking alternatives for their braces. Our cosmetic dentist can provide a wide range of treatments to help you achieve a more beautiful smile. If you desire to improve your confidence levels, self-image, and feeling of well-being, our cosmetic dentistry procedures can help you.
Am I an ideal candidate for teeth whitening?
Almost anyone can seek our teeth whitening procedure. Still, you can benefit the most from it if you meet the following conditions.
- You have good general dental health
- You have yellow or discolored teeth
- You maintain a healthy dental care routine
- You have good general physical health
Most of our teeth-whitening candidates have a wish to improve their smiles.
What is involved in cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is focused on providing you with a healthy and beautiful smile. It is different from general dentistry in that it focuses on treatments that preserve or enhance your smile, not just your dental health. The treatment options we offer include teeth whitening, dental implants, tooth reshaping, veneers, bridges, and smile makeovers among others. This can also include bonding and tooth-colored fillings.
How long will my procedure take?
Before we start any smile makeover procedure, there will be a consultation. We will create a plan and you will have to decide on it. The length of time will depend on combining all the different sessions to achieve the desired results. The amount of time will depend on whether certain procedures are done simultaneously or sequentially. For example, orthodontics will need to be completed before your dental implants begin. So, the duration of your cosmetic dental treatment depends on your goals.
What are the side effects of teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening, performed by a specialized and experienced dentist, is a safe procedure. It doesn't cause any concerning side effects. Some of the minor effects that some people may experience include:
- Increase in tooth sensitivity
- Gum irritation or sensitivity due to nighttime whitening trays
We will recommend precautions and steps to prevent these effects after your procedure. It is always recommended to get professional teeth whitening because at-home solutions can cause white spots.
When will I need dental veneers?
Dental veneers are used to improve the looks of teeth that have been discolored, damaged, or in bad shape. They are made of porcelain. They are designed and made for each teeth and provide the natural-like looks of real teeth. Veneers are permanent applications. Dental veneers make an excellent alternative to other types of treatment options that involve invasive procedures. We may often recommend veneers over dental crowns.
Why do my teeth become discolored?
Even when you brush and floss regularly, your teeth can become discolored due to many external factors. Some of these factors include:
- Drinking tea and coffee
- Smoking
- Use of certain medications
These external factors can wear down the enamel and the tooth surface becomes open and vulnerable to yellowing. Faster tooth discoloration also has genetic roots. For example, many of our patients have naturally less enamel or their enamel is more likely to wear faster.
Is cosmetic dentistry suitable for children?
There are a number of reasons why your child or teenager may require cosmetic dentistry treatment. For example, some children have severe teeth discoloration due to genetics, drinking coffee or tea, or other factors. Some children or teens have chipped teeth. However, we will conduct a thorough assessment to determine which treatments are applicable because the dental arch/jaw is still in the development stage.
Can I whiten my teeth using at-home systems?
You may use at-home systems to whiten your teeth. However, you should not expect professional results. Not only can you expect quick results with our treatments, but we can also remove stains that your at-home systems cannot affect in any way. If you desire to have a bright smile with glistening white teeth, free from any stains, you must seek professional whitening in our dental office.
Will my cosmetic dentistry procedure be covered by my insurance?
This will depend on the type of procedure involved and your insurance plan. Once your treatment plan has been created, you should check with your insurance provider. While some procedures are covered under many plans, others are not. We submit all insurance forms for our convenience. We recommend you to contact us to learn more about which insurance plans we take.
Veneers
Can anyone notice if I have veneers?
The purpose of cosmetic dental treatments, including porcelain veneers, is to create a completely natural look. Veneers expertly installed at our dental office will be almost indistinguishable from your other teeth. Porcelain veneers look similar to real teeth and blend in perfectly with your smile. Dr. Bosse will ensure that the veneers will look natural fit perfectly with your face. No one will be able to determine if you have had some work done.
Can veneers make my teeth sensitive?
You can expect to have some tooth sensitivity until the permanent veneers are placed. The process involves the removal of a thin layer of enamel to fit the veneers. Once the thin layer is removed, many patients are likely to experience slight sensitivity. However, this lasts only until permanent veneers are applied. In rare cases, some patients may experience slight sensitivity after the permanent veneers are placed. In that case, we may prescribe special sensitivity toothpaste.
Am I a good candidate for porcelain veneers?
Anyone who desires to improve their smile or looks within a shorter period of time can be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Still, we will check for a few conditions before recommending veneers. For example, you must be free from cavities or gum disease. Overall good oral health is also recommended. If you clench or grind your teeth, we will require you to wear a nightguard to prevent any damage to the veneers.
What dental conditions can be fixed with veneers?
Veneers can be used to fix a wide range of dental problems and conditions. We commonly use them to fix broken, chipped, gapped, discolored, and worn teeth. Since veneers can completely cover the front and sides of your teeth, you can consider them to fix most types of cosmetic problems. We can also consider veneers if you have permanent stains that can’t be fixed with whitening treatments. They can also be used to give a uniform shape and size to uneven and misshapen teeth.
Can I eat everything when I have veneers?
Yes, you can eat most foods with your veneers on. However, you should be careful about your choice of food when you have temporary veneers. It takes a few weeks for your permanent veneers to be ready and until then you should be careful with what you eat. We recommend avoiding the following foods during that time:
- Hard foods including nuts, chips, seeds, and hard breads
- Steak and other meats
- Crunchy vegetables
- Ice
- Sticky or hard candies
- Foods & beverages that can stain your teeth
- Chocolate
Even with permanent veneers, you should avoid hard foods, acidic foods, alcohol, ice, and sticky candies.
Will the procedure cause any hurt?
No, you will not feel any pain during the procedure. We will use a local anesthetic to prevent any pain. When it comes to the process of bonding the veneers to the teeth, it is a completely painless procedure. You will feel fully comfortable, as we will numb the area around the spot where the veneers will be cemented. After the numbness vanishes, you may experience soreness in the jaw and gums only if it is a larger procedure involving 8 or more veneers.
Will my teeth look straighter after applying veneers?
If you have slightly crooked teeth, veneers can give them the shape to look straighter. In many cases, they can also prevent the need for lengthier orthodontic treatments. However, we will have to assess your dental condition to determine if you are a good candidate for it. Most of the time, other orthodontic treatment options such as braces or Invisalign may be recommended.
Can porcelain veneers stain?
One of the greatest benefits of porcelain veneers is that they are resistant to staining. You can enjoy your favorite beverages including red wine and coffee without having to worry about developing a yellow smile. However, we recommend rinsing your mouth after taking anything that can stain your teeth. This is because the teeth under the veneers are still likely to stain.
How many veneers will I need?
The number of veneers required will vary from one patient to another. While some patients require only a few, others may require up to a dozen. This can depend on the patient’s goals and desires and the condition of their teeth. When you smile, you will want all your teeth to look good and match together. The number of teeth visible during a smile can vary from one person to another.
Do porcelain veneers need any special maintenance?
No, your porcelain veneers will not need any special maintenance or care. All they will need is the kind of care involved in your normal dental hygiene. This includes nothing more than regular brushing and flossing, and periodic visits to your dentist. However, there are some tips to enhance the life of your veneers. This includes using toothpaste free from abrasive substances, avoiding foods that damage teeth, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco.
Cleanings
Why should I get dental cleaning?
Your teeth and gums require more than regular brushing and flossing to maintain their health and cleanliness. Professional dental cleaning is what they require. The procedure can not only give you a better smile, but it can also help prevent expensive dental procedures. You may not know much about procedures such as scaling, root planing, bone grafting, gum grafting, and tooth replacement, but they are expensive. Unclean and unhealthy teeth and gums often require people to get these procedures.
What is involved in the procedure?
You should expect a dental cleaning session to last 45 minutes or less. The process involves scraping off the plaque deposits and cleaning and polishing to get rid of bacterial biofilm. This film is removed both from between the teeth and on them. You should expect no pain or discomfort during the process. If we notice tooth decay, we may also consider fluoride treatment.
How often should I visit for my dental cleanings?
The ADA recommends that you should get your professional dental cleanings once every 6 months. If you have any dental problems, you should visit more often – get your cleanings twice every 6 months. Such conditions include periodontal disease and certain recurring oral conditions. It will be best if you gave us a call and go an oral health inspection to help us determine the optimal frequency for your dental cleanings.
Should I expect any pain during my dental cleanings?
You should not expect any pain or discomfort during your dental cleaning sessions. As the name suggests, it is all about cleaning your teeth. Our dentist will use a special cleaning tool on your teeth and this should give you a sensation of vibrations and pressure and nothing more. Our dentist will make every effort to keep the sensation of vibration to the minimum. If you find the vibrations causing any discomfort, let us know and we will take the right steps to minimize them.
Are there any post-cleaning recommendations?
Dental cleaning doesn’t just end with your professional session at our office. Everyone desires to keep their teeth clean and smile beautiful. We recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice every day and floss once a day or more. Make sure to rinse your mouth after taking any food or beverage. It is recommended to rinse with a mouthwash containing fluoride.
How many visits are required for completing the procedure?
Many of our clients require multiple visits to complete their single dental cleaning procedure. This happens when you have complex dental problems and advanced plaque or tartar build-up. For example, patients who have mild to moderate plaque/tartar buildup and show early signs of gingivitis should expect to get complete cleaning in a single session. More complex tartar build-up and later stages of periodontitis or gingivitis will require more than one cleaning session.
How frequently should I replace my toothbrush?
The ADA recommends that toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 to 4 months. You should change them every time you fall sick. However, duration is not the only factor for replacing your toothbrush. The type of brusher you are and the condition of the bristles should also be taken into account. If you notice the bristles have become frayed, you should not wait longer to replace the toothbrush.
What happens if I miss my periodic dental cleanings?
If you miss your periodic dental cleanings, you increase the risk of tooth decay, tooth loss, discoloration, periodontal disease, and many other dental problems. It will cause the build-up of harmful bacteria in your mouth. Many of these bacteria release certain chemicals that damage the dental enamel and cause inflammation in the gums. Regular dental cleanings go a long way in maintaining healthy oral health and preventing many diseases.
Should I do something before going for my dental cleanings?
In fact, there is a list of dos and don’ts before you visit our office for your dental cleaning session. Some of the most important ones include the following:
- Make sure to arrive a few minutes earlier. This will help you feel relaxed for the session.
- Avoid over-brushing before arriving. It can otherwise cause gum inflammation.
- Prepare all the questions you may have in your mind.
- If you have any anxiety or concerns before the session, make sure to let our staff know about them.
What if it’s been a long since I have been to a dentist?
We understand! Don’t worry, as our staff will make you feel at ease when you visit our office. We are always focused on helping our patients instead of judging them. You should expect an initial examination and potentially a digital X-ray to learn about your dental condition. Our dentist will then recommend a course of action based on your dental condition.