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Uses of Dental Crowns in Dentistry
What Are Dental Crowns?
They are tooth-shaped, tooth-colored shell-like oral appliances that are used to repair and restore teeth. Crowns are used to repair or replace damaged crowns of teeth. The crown part of a tooth consists of the enamel and the dentin. When damage has been incurred on this part, then a dentist near you will employ a tooth crown to repair the tooth.How Are Crowns Applied?
The process of installing back and front tooth crowns in NW Calgary uses a dental bonding procedure. Ideally, your attending dentist will determine the most suitable crown for your tooth through taking impressions of your damaged tooth. The dentist starts by removing the damaged part of your enamel and trimming it to a shape comparable to the size of a typical dental crown. This process applies differently, based on the reason why you need a crown. Still, even though your tooth may not be damaged, part of it has to be trimmed to make room for the dental crown. Afterward, your dentist will take impressions of that tooth as a mold to come up with a perfectly fitting dental crown. This process will take some time, which is why you are likely to go home with a temporary dental crown. Once your crown is readied, it is then attached to your tooth using special cement and laser light to cure it.Uses of Dental Crowns
The process of installing a dental crown is not complex. You can get your crown ready in a few days, or even opt for same-day dental crowns. The important area of focus should be about how the crowns are used for dental treatments. The many areas that crowns are useful include:- Repairing decayed teeth – instead of losing your tooth through an extraction process, a dental crown can fix a decayed tooth. It can replace the damaged enamel and be the new crown for your tooth.
- Holding a filling in place – a dental filling can equally be used to treat a decayed tooth. However, when the filling used is too big for the tooth, it needs to be held in place by a dental crown.
- Repairing a broken or cracked tooth – instead of dental bonding or veneers, teeth crowns can still be used for this purpose.
- To cover an implant – a dental implant typically replaces the root of a tooth. In that sense, the top part of your tooth is still left untreated. A dental crown is mostly used to cover the implant and complete your tooth replacement treatment.
- To make a dental bridge – a dental bridge comprises an artificial tooth and a dental crown. The traditional dental bridge actually uses two dental crowns to hold the replacement tooth in place, during a tooth replacement procedure.
- To covers stains on teeth – professional teeth whitening is effective in many cases. However, some stubborn stains may still resist the whitening gel. In other instances, your preference may be to cover up the discoloration instead of belching them. For such, some patients opt for dental crowns instead of other methods liked dental veneers.
- To boost the strength of teeth – this is often the case when the structural build of a tooth is compromised. A tooth crown may be placed to strengthen the teeth, adding an extra layer of protection to your teeth.
- To cover a root canal procedure – to save your tooth, root canal therapy may be the only treatment viable. It helps treat your tooth from the inside, without necessarily damaging the structure of your tooth. In that case, to seal your tooth after the procedure, your dentist will use a dental crown. This will prevent any future re-entry of bacteria causing infection in your tooth.
Important Things You Need to Know About Invisalign® Before Your Dental Visit
What is It?
Invisalign is the new and improved way of straightening teeth which is more preferred that traditional braces. It is a set of special plastic customized just for your teeth. Invisalign is nearly invisible and it cannot be easily noticed as opposed to traditional braces. It works by gradually straightening your teeth into a perfect position. Your Invisalign will be exchanged every two weeks to properly align your teeth. You can visit any dental clinic near you to have your teeth checked and Invisalign replaced.Getting Started With Invisalign®
Getting to know if you qualify for Invisalign is the first thing to do if you have misaligned teeth. This is because it may not be right for you if you have severely misaligned teeth. If your teeth need severe re-spacing or straightening, you may still need to go for traditional braces. We are a Saturday open dentist so you can come in any day for consultation and check-up. When you visit our dental clinic near you, our dentist will check how extensive the misalignment of your teeth is. Once the dentist is sure you qualify for clear aligners we will get to work to get your customized Invisalign. Using the 3D imaging technology we can show you how perfect your smile will be once the braces align your teeth. Fixtures are used in attaching Invisalign to your teeth. A new set of custom aligners are made for every stage of the treatment.Using Invisalign®
One of the reasons to go for Invisalign is that it can be worn up to 22 hours a day meaning you can even sleep with it. Most aligner treatments last for as short as four to five months. Invisalign can be taken off during eating and teeth cleaning. It is also important to note that smoking and taking a lot of coffee can stain your aligners. Proper dental hygiene is recommended while using it. You should visit our dental clinic near you after every five weeks for an evaluation of your treatment progress. Modifications can be done if the recovery is slower. The fasteners that hold the Invisalign do come off after your teeth are perfectly aligned and you can then smile confidently again.Why Invisalign ® is Preferred over Traditional Braces
You should talk to a dentist near you about Invisalign as you may still need traditional braces if you don’t qualify. Let’s check out the reasons why it is preferred.Comfortable
Although Invisalign can cause some discomfort at the start of the treatment it is more comfortable than braces. Unlike traditional braces, it doesn’t cause abrasion or pain during eating. If you need a solution that will guarantee your comfort while aligning your teeth then you should talk to you dentist about InvisalignInvisible
Nobody will notice your aligners when you smile in public thanks to its near-invisible nature. Braces on the other hand are noticeable and may still deny you a perfect smile and the confidence you need.Removable
You can easily remove Invisalign during eating and cleaning your teeth and put it back afterward. With maintenance, proper dental hygiene won’t be a problem. Like we said before, talking to your dentist about your aligners is the most important thing to do when looking to fix misaligned teeth.ToothWorks Calgary
At Toothworks Calgary, we offer Invisalign treatment and consultations in Calgary. We are a Saturday open dentist so you can visit us on weekends if you need. Don’t lose your social life while we can give you a perfect smile.How Dental Implants Work
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that offers a permanent base to the fixed replacement teeth. It is used on people with problems such as failing teeth, chronic dental issues or missing teeth because it is highly effective and lasts long.
A dental implant is made out of titanium that fuses with bone cells of the jaw with time. The union between the titanium and the jaw forms a durable and secure anchor for the new teeth; therefore, there won’t be any movement or slippage.
With dental implants, you will have zero problems while eating, and you don’t need to repair them regularly.
Parts of The Dental Implants
A dental implant has three parts, namely:
1. The Implant. It is a screw that acts as the root for the new teeth. This is the part that attaches itself to the jaw permanently.
2. The abutment. A permanent connector that holds and supports a set of teeth or a tooth.
3. The crown. It is the tooth’s part that is visible. This part is made out of porcelain or zirconium for good looks and durability.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Some people are not viable for dentures and conventional bridges because of sore spots, gagging or inferior ridges. When getting the implants, there is no need for the neighboring teeth to be prepared since the implants don’t need support from the adjacent teeth. To get implants, you are required to have qualities such as:
- Healthy gums
- Adequate bone that can support the implant
- Regular visits to the dentist’s office and good oral hygiene habits to ensure the health and long-term success of the implants.
Before getting a dental implant near you, you should consult a qualified dentist in Calgary.
Types of Dental Implants
There are two types of dental implants:
1. Endosteal Implants. Most of these implants are fixed into the jawbone through a surgical procedure. The second surgery will be performed after the surrounding tissue is fully healed. The operation is necessary since it helps to form a connection between the original implant and a post. Lastly, your artificial tooth gets mounted onto the post.
2. Subperiosteal implants. This implant is commonly used with patients that lack adequate healthy bone. A metal frame is fixed to the jawbone underneath the gum tissue. The structure becomes more attached to the jawbone as the gums heal. The metal frame has posts that are attached to it where your artificial teeth get fixed.
Dental Implants Work in Two Ways:
Bone RetentionOsseointegration is a process through which dental implants connects with the bone. Apart from anchorage, the implants give the bone a quality that aids to retain bone mass. When bone cells move to the micromechanical structure and thread along the titanium implant, a bio-physical connection is formed. The connection locks the implant in the jawbone. This may take a few months to secure.
If a bone is not put into use, it usually wastes away, making it atrophic. By replacing the missing teeth with an implant, it restores the functionality and activity of the bone.
SupportDental implants provide support to artificial teeth in terms of aesthetics and function. When the implant is fully attached to the bone through osseointegration, it can withstand a considerable amount of loading just like healthy teeth or even more.
A prosthesis like a bridge, denture or crown might be restored with the implant as it maintains the restoration giving it the required functional ability.
Missing teeth might make you feel insecure when talking, smiling or eating. It can also lead to oral issues as well. A dental implant is the best solution for restoring your natural smile and also improving your oral health. Plus, some of the insurance companies pay for dental implant treatment.
Toothworks Dentistry is one of the best dental practitioners near you. Our dental office is located in NW, Calgary, and our staff is dedicated to providing with the best care possible. Our main aim is to ensure that you get personalized services that attend to your needs and help you achieve optimal oral and dental health. For our services, call us today and book an appointment.
Root Canal Treatment FAQs
What is Root Canal Treatment and Why Is It Done?
Endodontic treatment is done to remove the infected pulp, stop the infection, and preserve your teeth. Although most people use the term root canal to refer to the treatment, it is the natural cavity that houses the pulp. Our teeth have three layers: the enamel, dentine, and the pulp cavity. The pulp chamber or root canal cavity contains nerves and tissues that support the teeth during the development stage. The cavity, once it is infected it can cause pain and lead to the deterioration of the tissues and teeth. Not only that but if left unattended, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissue, hence the need for a root canal.Why Not Just Get a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction may seem like the ideal solution for a decayed tooth, but it’s not. The removal of the teeth leads to other dental problems that need expensive treatments. Furthermore, extraction leaves gaps in the gums that are detrimental to your dental health. These missing teeth will cause the surrounding teeth to shift and fill these spaces. Plus, it leads to the loss of the alveolar bone, causing jaw degeneration. Having a root canal in NW Calgary will help prevent these problems.What Happens If I Fail to Get the Root Canal Treatment?
The infection will spread to the rest to the mouth and may enter the bloodstream causing widespread inflammation. Also, it may lead to the loss of your permanent teeth which don’t grow back.How is the Endodontic Procedure Performed?
The root canal treatment is done in two dental visits and it involves a few steps:- Dental assessment. The dentist will do a radiograph of your teeth and gums to check the spread of the infection. Professional dental cleaning is done to remove any buildup.
- The dentist numbs the gums using the anesthesia, although sedation may be used if you have an overactive gag reflex. Next, the affected teeth will be separated from the rest with a sheet.
- With the dental tools, the dentist will remove the affected pulp and clean the chamber.
- The pulp chamber is reshaped and filled with a biocompatible material.
- A temporary dental filling may be used to close the cavity.
- On your final visit, a dental crown is used to restore the function and strength of the teeth.
Will There Be Pain?
No, you will not experience pain during the procedure because anesthesia is used. However, you can expect to have discomfort immediately after as the numbness starts to wear off. The discomfort and sensitivity will last for a short time but can be managed with pain relievers.How Long Does Recovery Take and What Can I Do?
A root canal can take a few days to heal, but you can hasten the process by:- Eating soft foods that do not require a lot of chewing
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
- Maintain proper dental hygiene
Can the Treatment Fail?
Although the root canal has a high success rate, it can fail sometimes. When you have multiple infected root canals, the dentist may fail to detect and remove them. This increases the chances of reinfection. The fixed dental crown or filling may breakdown, increasing the risk of getting infected again.Final Thoughts
A tooth infection can spread to the nearby tissues and cause a deterioration of the teeth. However, with a root canal treatment from dentist near you in NW Calgary, you can stop it and also preserve your teeth. Visit Toothworks in Calgary for a stellar endodontic treatment.What to Expect When Dental Fillings Are Needed?
Expectations When Getting Dental Fillings
Dental fillings Near You in Calgary will numb your teeth, the gums, and the surrounding skin with local anesthesia to lessen the discomfort of the procedure before filling cavities. The decay in the tooth will be drilled out before being replaced with a filling. The process is simple and only requires a few minutes to accomplish. Your mouth will remain numb for a few hours after the fillings are placed. While no complications are associated with dental fillings, it will prove helpful if you keep the dentist’s contact information with you for any questions if you experience any difficulties. Dental fillings are commonly used to file cavity in the tooth. They are also useful for repairing damaged teeth caused by bruxism or replacing parts of a broken tooth.Types of Dental Fillings You Can Have
Several options are available for filling cavities, all of which have their pros and cons. You can choose between gold, tooth-colored composite material, porcelain, and glass ionomer. The most appropriate fillings for you will depend on the cost, the insurance coverage you have, and your aesthetic preferences. A variety of materials are used for filling cavities with varying levels of strength and color. The two most common types offered by dental fillings in Calgary, AB, are amalgam and composite.Silver Amalgam Fillings
Dental professionals are using silver amalgam fillings for over a century because it is the most researched material utilized for filling cavities. Amalgam fillings are durable and robust and, therefore, ideal for holes in the molars. Amalgam fillings are noticeable because they are made from a combination of different metallic elements. They are the most affordable among all types of fillings but will be visible when you laugh or smile.Composite Dental Fillings
These are, at times, referred to as filled resins or composites and feature a combination of quartz or glass filler. They can be developed to match the color of your tooth. Composite fillings are also durable and ideal for small or mid-size restorations in the areas of your mouth where moderate chewing takes place.Metals
The most common metals used for filling cavities is gold or silver amalgam. The cost of gold fillings is ten times the price of silver amalgam, but some people still prefer it for their durability compared to a composite material. Many people do not prefer the appearance of metal fillings, but they can last for over a decade before needing replacements.Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are just as expensive as gold cavity fillings but are usually made from porcelain and are tooth-colored. It is unlikely to display tooth stains over time, unlike composite cavity fillings. Acrylic and glass are blended to create dental fillings that release fluoride to protect the teeth. Glass ionomer fillings are not as durable as other types. They will need to be replaced in approximately five years.Caring for Your Dental Fillings
After you have dental fillings placed, you may experience some sensitivity and pain, which should subside in some time. As long as you care for your teeth efficiently and use products specifically designed for sensitive teeth, you will be able to overcome this issue without problems. You can begin your regular oral hygiene routine after getting dental fillings in NW Calgary because brushing your teeth and flossing will not irritate the area around the placements. Visiting your dentist every six months will help to identify cavities in your mouth and treat them before they progress to an advanced level. Dental fillings can last for many years before needing replacements. Regular chewing with dental fillings will wear them out, so will problems like teeth grinding and clenching. Consult your dentist if you observe any signs of deterioration with your tooth fillings to have them replaced at the earliest. Tooth decay and cavities are a common problem that is treated by dentists with dental fillings. The procedure is simple and will protect your teeth from further deterioration in just a few minutes at the dentist’s office.Everything You Should Know About Root Canal Treatment
What is Root Canal Treatment?
If it is a dental procedure performed to remove the infection found in the root canal. The treatment is also called endodontics. The goal of root canal treatment in Calgary, AB is to save the natural structure of a tooth, by getting rid of the infection within it. The treatment also removes the damaged part of the tooth. These efforts help elongate the lifespan of that tooth.More About Root Canal Therapy
Usually, root canal treatment in Calgary is offered to patients who have already incurred damage to their teeth. The damage is that which has affected the external part of the tooth, as well as the internal parts. The central part of a tooth is called the pulp chamber. This chamber houses the nerve endings and soft tissues of a tooth. This part is responsible for keeping a tooth alive. When a tot hos damage, this part is usually compromised. This is when a patient will start complaining of toothaches, migraine headaches, swelling, hypersensitivity, to mention a few. These symptoms indicate that the tooth has incurred nerve damage. The root canal treatment near you will work on getting rid of the infection in your tooth, as well as removing the damaged part. The process involves removing all contents of the pulp chamber along with the infection. Technically, a tooth can still survive without the blood vessels and nerve endings. These are only useful for the growth and development of teeth, as well as feelings of sensitivity. Without them, however, a tooth would still be functional, as long as it is attached to the jawbone. Removing the damage and infection are a way to save the tooth and prevent further infection to adjacent teeth and surrounding tissues.When Do You Need A Root Canal Procedure?
When you visit your dentist with a damaged tooth, the responsibility is on him/her to diagnose your condition and come up with the best-fitted prescription for your case. Choosing endodontics over tooth extraction is a measure recommended for patients who prefer to save their teeth rather than lose them. Some of the situations where you require root canal therapy include:- Dental decay – the initial stages of tooth decay can be corrected with dental fillings. However, as the damage advances, root canal therapy might be the best way to save the tooth before the damage worsens. Dental decay happens to be the most common reason why patients get root canal treatment.
- Thinned out enamel – the enamel of teeth can be too thinned out that your teeth are hypersensitive. Hypersensitivity can make it difficult and uncomfortable to speak, and eat. The temperature changes make it hard for you to put your mouth to optimal functionality. Hypersensitivity can be a sign of damaged nerve endings in your teeth.
- Broken or chipped teeth – sometimes a broken or chipped tooth is not all the damage there is. External damage can cause damage beyond the enamel.
- Drainage problems – fluids should not be draining back into your gums or skin. However, some situations have it that the tooth drains out fluids into these areas, causing more advanced health problems.
- Bone loss – if you are experiencing bone loss at the tips of your tooth roots, it could be due to infection and damage to the root canal.
- To counter toothaches – toothaches are a sign that your nerve endings are responding to an infection. Some toothaches are bearable, while others can deter you from enjoying a quality life.
Tooth Extraction: The Medicare Does Not End With The Pull
A crowded mouth
Teeth alignment is critical for aesthetics and performance of the mouth. However, a crowded mouth cannot achieve the necessary alignment if there is no enough space for the teeth to fit perfectly when aligned. For a perfect orthodontia, removal of some teeth may be necessary just to ensure that the desired outcome is achieved. Under these conditions, the tooth extraction does not feature any infection. However, if the purpose for teeth pulling is because a growing tooth cannot break through the gums then extract care will be necessary to prevent infection and ensure a sanitized mouth. Otherwise routine after extraction care will suffice.Infection
Tooth damage and decay in some cases extend their effect to the pulp, which is the part that contains nerves and blood vessels. This is when the tooth becomes painful. The pulp is delicate such that bacteria from the mouth can cause an infection within the region if exposed. Root canal therapy is often used to correct this situation. However, if the situation is not handled by the therapy, the use of antibiotics is necessary. If both options do not work, then there is immediate need to prevent the spread of the infection through extraction of the affected teeth and this is where the pulling out comes out. This particular situation involves infections and the need to prevent further infection. The aftercare following the extraction is thus more important and should be taken seriously.Tooth extraction to prevent risk of infection
Chemotherapy and organ transplant are known to cause compromise of immunity. This is a situation whereby the immune system is not effective in its purpose. Under these circumstances, you may have your teeth pulled. Gum diseases whereby there is an infection of the tissue and the bones that support the teeth may also necessitate the pulling out of the teeth. This is also a delicate situation that demands the right after care.After care following tooth extraction
After the procedure, ensures that the gauze is in place for 2 hours. Your dentist will inform you to do so. The importance of having the gauze intact is to prevent blood loss by facilitating blood clot. Avoid intense activities and exercise after the procedure. The idea is to avoid increasing your blood pressure so that the site does not start bleeding again. Avoid smoking that is if you are a smoker and also avoid using a straw for the next three days. The idea is to prevent you from having a dry socket after the procedure that may result from smoking of using a straw. Contrary to popular belief, do not rinse your mouth for the next 24 hours after the extraction. To ensure that blood clot forms within the site and dry socket is avoided, rinsing the tooth is avoided to ensure that the clot blood is not dislodged. Avoid hard food, stick to soft food and liquids for the next 24 hours until the site is healed. However, you should apply ice on the swollen areas within your face. Doing it 15 to 20 minutes in every hour will do the magic. You should also sleep with your head elevated to decrease the swelling. If you experience fever, throbbing pain, unending swelling, foul taste and drainage coming from the mouth, unable to open your mouth after one week or any other indicator as directed by your dentist visit a Tooth Extractions near you and report.Benefits of Children’s Dentistry in Calgary
How Regular Pediatric Care Helps the Child?
As per the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry first dental visit a child should occur no later than the first birthday. Children’s dentistry in Calgary AB is dedicated to treating children – from the time their first tooth grows through high school years. Pediatric dentists in Calgary receive an extra two years of formal training in Pediatric dentistry. Since pediatric dentists specialize in taking care of children’s teeth, they are better equipped to address dental issues problems that may occur. This includes delayed tooth decay, loss of baby teeth, and development of cavities. Scheduling a regular appointment offer plenty of advantages to the children.- Developing Good HabitsIf children develop the habit of ignoring their dental health, they will continue it into adulthood.Although your little one might not require an intensive tooth cleaning session at the age of two, you need to start teaching good oral hygiene habits.
- Make them ResponsibleYou need to find a top-notch clinic that offers the best Pediatric dentistry near you. Visiting a pediatric dentist helps your child learn how to use a toothbrush, floss, and prevent one from forming in the teeth.Remember, if these habits are formed at an early stage, they will follow the same routine throughout their life.
- Prevents DecayMany dental and oral issues only develop pain and discomfort. Sometimes they are hidden in the mouth and make it tough for the parents to see.However, the use of regular pediatric dentistry services can prevent cavities and other forms of gum and tooth decay. Cavities are a form of decay that can lead to another issue if persisting for a long time.During the visit, pediatric dentists check the health of your child’s teeth to ensure their gums are healthy and teeth are free of cavities. They spot the signs of other oral and dental health issues in your kid. This prevents painful and costly dental problems from developing later in life. Remember, detecting these problems in the baby teeth is essential. It is because ignoring oral care could result in even more serious dental issues later in life.
- Get Rid of Dental FearDental fear in kids is common, mainly if they are not socialized in that environment from a young age.Therefore, visiting an experienced dentist can teach good habits and get rid of the fear of dental appointments.When you schedule an appointment for Children’s dentistry in Calgary, the doctors are happy to take additional steps to keep the environment comfortable.
- Keeps Mouth HealthyAnother benefit of pediatric dentistry is that it keeps the mouth clean and healthy of your child.When you visit a pediatric dentist in Calgary, they monitor every stage of your child’s oral development. They follow a holistic approach to offer excellent dental care to children.They identify the factors that may contribute to poor dental health – diet and risks associated with habits like teeth grinding, thumb sucking, etc. Regular visits can help you track the oral health of your little one and prevent these problems to appear in the future.
- Offer a Perfect SmileUsing specialized Children dentistry devices, skilled pediatric dentist scrapes away the plaque and make teeth of your little one brighter.Also, the dentists offer some great tips for parents to keep the teeth of kids in good shape.Do not let your child’s teeth go un-cared for. Children’s dentistry in Calgary offers kids with an excellent guide for oral care so that they will have good dental hygiene as they mature. Friendly staff works with children daily. They know how to put children at ease during the treatment.
Who Can Provide Effective TMJ Therapy for Patients in Calgary?
Temporomandibular Joint — What Is It?
The TMJ joint is located at the base of the skull and it allows for the movement required for talking and chewing. This joint connects the mandible which is also known as the lower jaw to the temporal bone that has its position on the side of the skull. This joint is one of the most complex in the body as it allows movement from all sides. It contributes vastly to the complexity of TMJ disorders and any TMJ therapy offered to treat it effectively.Can TMJ Therapy Treat TMJ Disorders?
Diagnosing TMJ disorders is the biggest challenge for doctors or even dentists that may be offering TMJ therapy near you. The disorders are in a broad category and may include many possible reasons. Under the circumstances, the treatment options available are also different. Any doctor offering TMJ therapy near you may attempt to diagnose the condition based on the number of symptoms which may include persistent pain around the jaw and restricted movement of the jaw. TMJ disorders generally resolve themselves over some time except for some cases which may be ongoing.The Causes of TMJ Disorders
Many possible reasons have been attributed to the possible causes of TMJ disorders. Some of the known causes include the following:- Arthritis.
- Physical injury.
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth when sleeping.
- Autoimmune diseases.
- Dental surgery.
- Infections.
