Dental Implants: What Is Involved?

Despite the advances in the science of dentistry, thousands of patients suffer from tooth loss – normally because of gum problems, mouth injury or tooth decay. For several decades, the treatment for those suffering from missing teeth were dentures and bridges. Fortunately, a great invention today is dental implants.

What does a dental implant procedure involve?

1. Dental implant treatment begins with the construction of a customized plan of treatment. This plan handles one’s requirements and is created by a team of dentists trained in restorative dentistry and oral surgery. The team approach offers coordinated care that ensures the best treatment possible.
   
2. The second step pertains to implant of the tooth root, a tiny post created out of titanium, to be placed in the missing tooth’s bone socket. With time, the jawbone starts to heal and starts cultivating around the metal post, fixing it firmly within the patient’s jaw. The whole treatment can last for six to twelve weeks.
   
3. Once the prosthetic has bonded with the jawbone, a connector post known as an abutment is fixed on the post for holding the new projection securely.
   
4. To create a custom-made crown, your dental expert will take tooth impressions, and develop a prototype of your bite. The new artificial tooth will be based on this specific model. Once created, the crown will get fixed to the support.
   
5. Your dental expert will also make sure the color of your natural teeth and new teeth match. Since the implant is affixed to the jawbone, the substitute feels, functions and looks just like your natural teeth.
   
6. After the procedure, you may feel slight soreness that can be treated with the help of an over-the-counter pain medication.

The success rate of dental implants differ, depending on where they have been placed within the mouth. But, in general, implants have a success rate of approximately 98%. If proper care is taken, implants can even last a lifetime. Dental implants need the same kind of maintenance as your real teeth, including flossing, brushing, and regular dental check-ups. It is also important to choose a dentist wisely to make sure the procedure goes on successfully and without a hitch. One of the best ways to look for an expert in implants is to take recommendations from friends and family and visit BBB. You should judge a clinic or a dentist by three main parameters- price, services offered, and experience of the dentist. Also, make sure the clinic offers emergency dentist open Sunday services in case you land into a medical emergency during the wee hours or during weekends.

How to know if a cosmetic dentist is worth your money?

Our smile is the first thing people notice about us, and can play a very important role in our professional and personal life. There is no denying that people with pearly whites are more likely to impress employers and attract partners. However, to get that million dollars look, it is important to use the services of an experienced dentist in Baltimore.

There are several things that can help you determine the experience and expertise of a dentist, such as, 

1. Certification or accreditation: a good dentist will always have proper certification and accreditation from known academies.
2. Availability: all good dental clinics adapt to the needs of their clients by offering weekend and emergency services. If you are a working professional, it is important to choose a flexible clinic.
3. Professionalism: to determine the standards of a clinic, it is important to observe the general appearance of the office, staff, and the dentist. Is everything clean, neat and orderly? Remember, good dental clinics abide by strict guidelines for sterilization and disinfection.
4. Results: one of the best ways to measure the skill and experience of a dentist is to see the before and after results of previous patients. By looking at real pictures you can judge how talented the dentist or a dentist in general really is.
5. Knowledge of the latest procedures: Cosmetic dentistry is evolving every day, and new procedures, techniques and technology are continually emerging. Find out if the dentist is at par with the latest cosmetic technologies to ensure he/she can offer you the best treatment.

Cosmetic dentistry is one of the most sought after and popular techniques that does not just help us look attractive but also enhances our self-esteem. However, most dentistry procedures are complex and require experienced and skilled hands. Make sure you choose the right dentist by keeping the aforementioned points in mind. The best way to look for a good dentist is word of mouth and the internet.

Teeth whitening: Tips to help you prepare

Your teeth may be straight and aligned but if they are discolored or stained, you will have difficulty smiling. Fortunately, with a range of teeth whitening treatments, you can flash the most dazzling smile in no time.

Teeth whitening is believed to be the most popular cosmetic dental treatments with millions of people looking to boast a commercial-worthy smile. Another big reason for this procedure to be so popular is the fact that it is comparatively cheaper than other treatments. The dental treatment also does not take too long to complete and offers instant results.

To make sure you are adequately prepared for teeth whitening, follow the tips mentioned below:

• • Start using a desensitizing toothpaste a couple of weeks before your whitening treatment. Teeth become highly sensitive because of the laser beam. Desensitizing toothpaste can help block the tooth pores that act as pathways to the dental nerves.
  
• • Schedule a teeth cleaning appointment. For best results, make sure you have your teeth cleaned thoroughly.  Thorough cleaning must be done at least a month before the procedure.
  
• • In case you have sensitive teeth and are afraid that the procedure may get painful, ask your dental expert which painkiller you can use before the whitening procedure. Consuming a painkiller before the treatment will eliminate or reduce the painful discomfort that the treatment may create. However, do not just use any painkiller as some of them can make your gums prone to bleeding and more sensitivity.
  
• • Lastly, if you suffer from a gum disease, make sure you get it treated first as teeth whitening can further complicate it. Your dental expert can assist you with this, so discuss the issue in detail before taking a decision.

If you’re planning to undergo teeth whitening by a dentist in Baltimore, make sure you are well prepared for the procedure so that you can achieve the best results without complicating your oral health.