Full Mouth Zirconia Implants Before and After Pictures
From Dentures to Full Mouth Zirconia Implants
The case of the denture wearer with buyers remorse. In picture one, the patient had no visible remaining teeth. The final after picture shows beautiful full mouth zirconia implant teeth. The case involved a generous 10 zirconia implants. A full set of upper ceramic implant teeth supported by the implants. The upper teeth were done as 3 individual implant bridges.
Lower Zirconia Implant Bridges
A full set of lower implant teeth were similarly made to fit a total of 8 implants. Again 3 bridges were used to form the set of implant teeth.
Addition of Pink Porcelain to Full Zirconia Implant Teeth
The patient had lost valuable gum and bone, so pink porcelain was used to make the cosmetics of the front teeth implant bridges look optimal.
The patient seems very satisfied with the permanent fixed implant case. Implant bridges do not need to be removed and have a very similar function to natural teeth. Implant retained crown and bridge work is much thinner and smoother than other implant solutions such as implant supported dentures.
Dentures Vs Full Mouth Zirconia Implants
The patient threw their removable dentures away. The only thing that would have made this case better is if the patient had more gum and bone at the start of the case. One major side effect of losing teeth is losing gum and bone tissue.
If you’ve ever received amalgam fillings, you know what they are – metal placed in the tooth to fill a cavity. When you open your mouth, you see the metal. It’s a tell-tale sign you had a cavity. The shiny silver tooth filling.
This isn’t the only reason many people are moving away from amalgam fillings. Holistic dentistry has recommended removal of amalgam fillings for over 30 years. There are many others, and understanding why will help you decide if you should not only seek tooth colored cavities and have the amalgam fillings replaced.
What are Composite and Amalgam Fillings?
Amalgam fillings are the metal fillings that most people are used to because they have been used for many years. Amalgam fillings contain 50% and it has gotten a bad rap lately with accusations of being toxic. Tooth-colored fillings are also known as composite resin fillings. Composite fillings are tooth colored and have been called porcelain fillings.
What are Inlays and Onlays?
Composite fillings are not to be confused with inlays and onlays which are laboratory made pieces of porcelain or metal custom made to fit the damaged portion of the tooth. Inlays and onlays can be used when the cavity is very large. Inlays and onlays are cemented or bonded into the cavity. Inlays and onlays are much more expensive than fillings because the lab needs to be paid for fabrication.
Composite Fillings look Better than Silver Fillings
While this has already been noted, it’s worth mentioning again. Amalgam filings are highly noticeable in the mouth. Tooth-colored fillings are not because they are white. Only if someone really looks at the teeth will they notice there is a filling.
Amalgam Material corrodes and causes Sensitivities
Some people are allergic to metal and when they receive amalgam fillings they end up with a bothersome reaction. Amalgam fillings are not recommended by biological dentistry. Unfortunately, many people don’t know it’s their metal fillings that is causing them so much grief and it can be years before a dentist points out that their physical issues may be because of their fillings. Amalgam fillings contain mercury, silver, copper and tin. These metals break down over time as they corrode.
Metal allergies are usually not a concern when people choose tooth colored fillings. They are made of composite resins. Some composite resin fillings contain BPAs, but most current materials are BPA free. New tooth colored filling materials are made of a ceramic resin material. These resins have fewer chemicals and cause fewer reactions.
Mercury Fillings Should be Removed Safely
Amalgam fillings contain mercury in them. This mercury can be toxic in large amounts. Are amalgam fillings safe to have in you mouth? While the filling itself may not cause an issue, it can contribute to the total amount of mercury in the body if someone is exposed to it in other ways. When mercury fillings are removed is should be done safely using the IAOMT protocol for amalgam filling removal.
Tooth Preservation – Amalgam requires a bigger hole
When using ceramic fillings, less of the tooth needs to be removed when compared to how much needs to be removed with metal fillings. This means that the tooth natural structure remains more intact.
Tooth Strength is reinforced with composites
Ceramic fillings preserve the strength of the tooth much more than amalgam fillings because they chemically bond to the tooth. This can mean fewer recurrent oral issues and cavities in the future.
Tooth Decay or Caries
Decaying is a concern for teeth that have amalgam fillings. Amalgam fillings are known to cause crackes or fissures where bacteria can infiltrate. This bacteria can lead to infection and decay quickly if the cracks and fissures are not caught in time.
Porcelain fillings are less likely to crack teeth because they bond to the tooth. Amalgam expands over time and puts pressure on the tooth.
Stain and Abrasion
Composite fillings are much more resistant to stains. This is highly important to individuals who are concerned about the whiteness of their teeth.
Corrosion
Since amalgam fillings are metal, they are at risk for corrosion. This happens over time, and is one of the reasons people have to get their fillings redone.
Porcelain, tooth-colored fillings, don’t have that risk. They are ceramic, so they don’t corrode.
Chewing Comfort and Sensitivity
Many people report that after receiving amalgam fillings, they have some issues with chewing. They may have to go back to the dentist to have the filling corrected to return to normal chewing. This isn’t as common for porcelain fillings as it adheres to the tooth in a different way.
Are Amalgams Stronger than Composites?
Both amalgam and composite fillings are durable. They are meant to last a lifetime. This is true for the ceramic tooth-colored ones also. Most people don’t think they would be as strong, but they are extremely resistant to breakage, chips, and cracks.
Amalgam Fillings Cost less than Composites
Amalgam material costs less than composite fillings. Since metal is less expensive to produce, most dentists offer it. Patients often choose metal fillings because they are cheaper.
Does Insurance Pay for Amalgam Filling Replacement?
Many insurance companies do not cover ceramic fillings. They believe amalgams are just as good and less expensive, so they prefer to cover those instead. This means people who want the tooth colored fillings will need to pay out of pocket.
Availability
Most dentists offer tooth-colored fillings now because so many patients request them for the aesthetic benefits. However, some continue to stand strong behind amalgam filings claiming the material for them is superior. Just be sure to check with the dentist you choose to see if ceramic fillings are an option.
Should You Replace Amalgam with Composite Fillings?
For those who are getting a filling, all you have to do is ask for a porcelain filling, ceramic filling, or tooth-colored filling. The dentist will know what you mean and will probably ask if you know you’ll have to pay whatever is left over after the insurance company reviews the service.
If you already have amalgam fillings, you can have them replaced. Not all dentists replace amalgam fillings. It is a process that requires safety measures to be addressed. Since removing the amalgam fillings can lead to mercury dust and gas floating in the area, it’s important the dentist have experience performing this type of procedure. This includes being able to remove the metal fillings with minimal debris, wears specialty gloves, and ensure there’s enough ventilation and air filtration. A special safe mercury removal protocol is specified by the IAOMT.org that we follow.
Once the amalgam fillings are removed, the dentist can put in tooth-colored ones. It’s done in just the same way as they would be put in if you decided to get a tooth-colored one in the first place.
Contact Us for Tooth-Colored Fillings
We offer tooth-colored fillings and we can replace amalgam fillings. We abide by IAOMT safety standards when it comes to removing amalgam fillings, so you can be rest assured we limit the exposure of mercury as much as possible.
As strong supporters of ceramic fillings and dental implants, we strive to educate dental patients on the benefits of tooth-colored fillings. If you have any questions about metal and metal-free fillings or implants, please contact us. We would be happy to answer all of them.
Amalgam is a common material to fill cavities. The silver material contains mercury. The safety of mercury in the mouth has been questioned by many health care professionals. You probably know what these are if you’ve had them or seen them in someone’s mouth. It’s the silver that shows in the middle of back teeth. They fill in the cavity. Is it safe to have silver fillings in the mouth? Biological dentists all believe the amalgam fillings are not safe. But with many people trying to improve their health, metal fillings have truly become a main stream concern. Especially for people having health problems such as cancer, auto immune disease and dementia.
Symptoms Suspected to be Caused by Amalgam
Anxiety
Memory Loss
Headaches
Fatigue
possible metal allergies and sensitivities
galvanic reactions with other metals in the mouth including other silver fillings, gold crowns, titanium implants, etc
The problem with silver amalgam that causes concern is that amalgam is a metal that contains mercury. Since mercury is unsafe to the body, do silver fillings pose a threat since they contain mercury? Many dentists, doctors and the FDA believe silver fillings are safe despite containing poisonous metals including mercury. Some dentists and doctors believe amalgam fillings are not safe. An organization called the IAOMT is a group of dentists and doctors who believe silver fillings are not safe. The IAOMT has a safe mercury amalgam removal protocol for people who want amalgam removed in a “safe” manner.
What is in Amalgam Fillings?
Before we answer this question, let’s understand what makes up amalgam. Amalgam is made up of several metals, such as silver, mercury, tin and copper. It also has some zinc, indium, and palladium in it. This type of filling has been used by dentists for over 150 years.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Tooth Colored Fillings
Recently, people have been requesting a different type of filling – a tooth-colored one. Most if the time, this is not because of health or safety concerns, but because they don’t want to see the metal in their mouth. Unfortunately, tooth colored fillings are more expensive than mercury fillings. Also, until recently, the white fillings did not hold up as well over time. Now tooth colored fillings have many advantages over amalgam fillings are a better choice – the mercury safety issue aside.
Now that you know what amalgam is made of, you probably want to know if it’s safe. The answer is that there is risk to having it in your mouth. According to the ADA and U.S. Food and Drug Administration has stated that there is no reason to limit its use because it is safe enough for adults and children ages 6+. But there are many health professionals who feel the risk has been understated and down-played by the ADA and FDA,
Safety Concerns with Mercury in Amalgam
Despite the FDA’s amalgam statement, many people are still unsure of its safety. The issue is that the filling is made with mercury and with so many other sources of mercury in the environment it may tip the scales enough to make it a true health risk.
The more mercury someone digests, the worse the symptoms are for them. There is significant amounts of mercury in fish meals. Fish such as salmon, sword fish, tuna and many others can contain mercury.
What is important to know is that while researchers in the past believed silver fillings were inert and did not absorb into the body, recent studies have found that mercury vapor from them does get released and is absorbed by the body as the fillings wear. People who clench their teeth especially absorb a lot mercury vapor.
Mercury Impacts People Differently
Not all people with silver fillings get sick, but some people are allergic to it. This causes great concern for many people with metal allergies. While a lot of people do not have metal allergies, it is something that does happen and people need to know about it. A common problem with allergies is the delayed response. Someone may not be allergic to dental metal and then a year later they are allergic. The symptoms to allergies to metal in the mouth may not be rash and hives. It may be just minor gum inflammation and bleeding of the gums that persists even thought brushing and flossing is perfect.
What many people want to know when they have metal-based fillings is how they can get them removed. It is possible to have silver fillings removed and replaced with a different type of material – a safe, just as effective material. Alternatives to amalgam fillings include composites, porcelain and zirconia.
Removing Fillings with Mercury in a Safe Manner
For those who are concerned about the mercury in silver amalgam, it is possible to have it removed in a safe manner. Mercury removal is done by experienced dentists who understand the risks. The process is technique sensitive but simple for a properly trained dentist. People should do research before deciding to have it performed.
How is Safe Mercury Removal Done:
Cutting the Filling – The first step is to remove the fillings. This is done by cutting chunks of the filling out of the tooth. This minimizes the effects of the mercury.
Cool Instruments – The reason people should see a dentist who is experienced with mercury filling removal is because it’s important to use water irrigation and air cooling. Heat can increase the generation and emission of mercury, which could lead to harmful effects.
Efficient Suctioning – It’s highly important to remove all pieces of the filling are removed, so it doesn’t turn into a vapor and absorbed into the body.
Protection Barriers – Rubber dams should be used to prevent ingestion and inhalation of mercury during the removal process.
Protecting the Skin – The dentist should also protect the body’s biggest organ – the skin. This is done by using a surgical drape or moist paint towel on the skin to catch any fine particles from the fillings.
Clean Air – This should be available during the entire process. This prevents people from inhaling amalgam platter or mercury gas.
Video about Mercury Filling Removal
An organization called the IAOMT has defined a protocol for safely removing mercury from the oral cavity. This involves using nitrile gloves. These special rubber gloves prevent diffusion of amalgam and mercury. The protocol also includes making clean air available to the entire dental team, especially dental offices that perform amalgam removals regularly.
It is highly important to take adequate precautions when it comes to mercury removal since the debris can remain the air for quite some time. This means people can breathe the mercury in and that elevates their levels, which could be harmful. Managing the amount of mercury in the air is highly important, and something we take serious in our dental office.
Alternative to Metal Fillings
An alternative to metal fillings is tooth-colored ceramic ones, or zirconia fillings. They are metal-free, just as durable, and completely safe to use for fillings. The switch to zirconia fillings has been happening for a few years, especially since they are nearly unnoticeable when people open their mouth.
Not all dentists offer zirconia fillings, so it’s important to ask if the dental office you’re considering has them.
Does Insurance Pay for Amalgam Filling Removal
Some dental insurance companies cover replacement of silver fillings, but only if the silver filling is defective, with a crack or a cavity under it. Many dental insurance policies do not cover metal filling removal due to the FDA stating they are not a threat to people’s health. The expense of removing the fillings may be worth it to you especially if you’re concerned about the effects of them on your health. Porcelain fillings are also not usually covered by dental insurance because of the option of less expensive metal ones. Some insurances will cover a portion of porcelain fillings up to the cost they would pay for the metal ones, and the rest of the cost is the responsibility of the patient.
Ask your insurance provider or dental team to check on what is and isn’t covered, so you can plan on the expense.
Contact Us for Metal Filling Removal and Porcelain Fillings
We are proud to offer safe metal filling removal. We abide by the IAOMT protocol to ensure safety of patients and the entire dental team. In place of metal fillings, we recommend non-metal porcelain fillings. They are more attractive, safer, and last just as long as metal ones.
To understand the advantages of tooth replacement, it’s important to know the consequences of losing teeth. For starters missing teeth will lead to more tooth loss. And losing your back teeth will lead to losing your front teeth. So if you want to keep your smile, this article is for you. Getting teeth replaced with implants is the best move if you had to get one pulled. All of the consequences of missing teeth are not immediately obvious. This article will explain the truth about missing teeth and what happens if you do not fill missing tooth spaces with replacements.
Bone Loss is Progressive After Losing Teeth
Teeth provide support for jaw bone, lips and cheek tissue. When teeth are lost, tissue can collapse into the teeth spaces. The jaw bone maintains strength by the stimulation teeth receive through biting and chewing. When there is a missing tooth, the jaw bone in that area weakens because it doesn’t get any pressure. Weakening of the bone is a process called ‘resorption’ and osteoporosis.
Bone loss can Spread to other parts of the Jaws
Loss of bone volume in one area can spread. As the entire jaw bone declines in strength, teeth can become affected. This can increase the risk of teeth breaking, gum disease, and cavities. Loss of bone structure changes your facial appearance. The face begins to look sunken-in because the lips and cheeks have less support from teeth and jaw bone volume. The quickest way to look years older and wrinkly, is to lose jaw and facial bone. There are new natural bone regeneration techniques using platelet rich fibrin or PRF.
Missing Teeth Causes Shifting and Bite Problems
Without the support of surrounding teeth, a tooth will start to shift. This can cause misalignment of the bite and gaps in between teeth. Teeth may also start to loosen as they move out of position. This is called bite collapse and tooth splaying. When spaces open up in between teeth, food and bacteria get trapped and it causes gum disease and tooth decay. As teeth move into new positions, they meet one another differently top to bottom. This can cause bite problems, teeth clenching and grinding at night-time.
Wrinkling of Facial Skin Including Lips, Cheeks and Resting Lines
Teeth have a great influence in the way your face look. If you’ve ever seen people with an overbite and looked at their profile, you can see the overbite even when they don’t open their mouth. This is just an example of how the teeth influences what the face looks like. Missing teeth and other shifting can change the way the face looks, and the changes may not be in a way people prefer.
As people age, the facial changes are much more dramatic. Missing teeth can cause skin to sag around the mouth causing deep wrinkles. This can lead to people looking much older than they would look if they had all of their teeth.
Bite Problems can Cause Headaches and Neck Tension
Many people with missing teeth report suffering from an increase in headaches and TMJ pain. This is due to the demand placed on the existing teeth. It’s just like when you have a group of people working on a project. When there are missing people, the rest of the people in the group have to do more to get the project done. When there are missing teeth, the other teeth have to work harder to chew food until it’s ready to swallow.
Speech Problems from Tooth Loss
Missing teeth can cause speech problems. People who have missing teeth may slur their words and stutter, because the tongue isn’t working as it did when the teeth were there. Over time, the slurring may not be so obvious, but it can be quite embarrassing for people who have to speak professionally. Missing teeth can also lead to lots of extra salivary flow, slobbering and spitting.
Sinus Problems and Changes
Back, upper teeth that are missing can change the size and shape of the sinuses. This change in the sinus structure can also lead to bone atrophy in sinus spaces. A cratering effect in the sinuses can be seen along with poor sinus shape, and sinus drainage. Basically, the changes in shape in the sinus does not lead to good drainage. Similar to a grass area with a sunken-in and depressed area. Water will stand and sit in these areas. Bacteria will fester in sinus “holes” and cause bacterial congestion and sinusitis. Sinus problems can be fixed with sinus lifts and bone grafts. But the costs are high and surgery will be necessary.
So, in addition to having a “holey” smile, people who are missing teeth can suffer from jaw bone loss, misaligned teeth, facial changes, headaches, speech problems and sinus changes. All of these consequences of not replacing teeth are too serious to ignore. With this knowledge, it’s now important to know the best way to replace teeth. Research has show the the loss of just one back tooth can lead to the collapse of the entire bite and the loss of several more teeth. The best time to replace a tooth is immediately after it is lost with a dental implant.
Dentures are not a good permanent option
Dentures or partial dentures is one way to replace teeth, but not the best way. Dentures speeds up bone loss due to the pressure they place on the jaw bone. It wears the bone out, which then shrinks it much quicker than other ways to replace teeth. The rate of bone loss accelerates for those who wear dentures all the time, including overnight.
A teeth bridge is an alternative to a dental implant. It’s not the best way to replace missing teeth, though. A bridge does not provide the stimulation the jaw bone needs to maintain strength. As the jaw bone weakens, a gap can develop underneath the bridge, which can become visible when the person smiles.
If dentures or partial dentures and a bridge aren’t the best way to replace missing teeth, what is?
Dental Implants is Best Replacement Option
Dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth. They stop bone loss in its tracks. Dental implants are supported by the jaw bone. When people chew and bite food, the implants stimulate the jaw bone just like natural teeth do, which means the jaw bone remains strong. Implants help preserve bone after tooth loss. The recovery after implant surgery does not take long or hurt too much.
Dental implants use the jaw bone as foundation and are able to support themselves in between neighboring teeth. This means that other teeth are not affected by the implant. For people who have many missing teeth, dental implants are a good way to create a full arch of replacement teeth.
The benefits of implants, especially metal-free implants are incredible. non-metal zirconia implants do not corrode, have no risk of causing allergic reactions, and are durable enough to last a lifetime. Titanium implants are metal and they are less likely to crack and break. That means not having to spend money on replacement implants. People often choose titanium dental implants because the long-term studies of success.
If a dentist has diagnosed a tooth as dead (necrotic) or dying (irreversible pulpitis) then a root canal is necessary to save the tooth. If the root canal is not done, then the tooth needs to be extracted to prevent infection and pain. It is that simple. But deciding whether or not to do a root canal is a much more complicated decisions. Root canals will last 5-10 years on the average. It can be considerable to replace the tooth with an implant. Implants can last a lifetime and have a much better long term out look. Implants also do not decay or every need root canals.
Are you worried about getting a root canal? How necessary is it to really get a root canal? Most people report that root canal procedures are painless, easy and have a short recovery period. Millions of people receive root canal treatment every year. So it can’t be too bad and it must be needed on some level, right?
Consideratons for getting root canals
Benefits of root canals cannot be denied. But how long do root canals last on the average? Is a root canal worth the money? What happens after you get a root canal? What if the root canal does not work? What alternatives to root canals should be considered? Such as an extraction and replacement with a dental implant or a bridge or denture. Some medical and dental experts argue that there are health concerns with root canals. Others say root canals are safe and a great way to get rid of pain and keep a natural tooth? You will need to gather all the facts and make an informed treatment decision.
How to decide whether or not to do a root canal?
If your dentist has recommended a root canal, you have a decision to make. Three options are to have the root canal or get dental implants. Or you can pull the tooth and not replace it. But that will lead to teeth shifting, a bad bite and more tooth loss. Ignoring the problem will not make it go away. Doing nothing will make the problem worse. You will get to the point where the tooth is not repairable at all. Not to mention, you will be in a lot of pain. And you will wish you had not delayed. If you are not sure about what to do, just remove the tooth for now and you may be able to get an implant later.
Can a root canal be avoided?
Deep inside of your teeth, there is a collection of tissues, nerves, and blood vessels. The collection is referred to as pulp. This pulp is what is responsible for life processes and development and growth of teeth. The pulp remains alive in teeth and in fact teeth are living organs and not rigid dead chewing objects. The pulp connects with the other nerves, arteries and veins of the body. In fact, nutrients are delivered to the tooth and waste products are removed from the tooth as in all other parts of the body. If the pulp dies, you will either need to get a root canal or remove the tooth to prevent jaw bone infection. There is a holistic way to remove root canals.
What a Root Canal Does for People
A root canal removes the inflamed or infected pulp deep inside the tooth. The procedure includes cleaning, shaping, filling and sealing the inside of the tooth. It is impossible to remove all the bacteria and dying nerve tissue inside of a tooth. The root of a tooth is porous like a sponge. During a root canal, the nerve canal is sealed. The hope is the bacteria inside the tooth does not grow and ever leak out into the jaw. Usually this will happen after 5-10 years and a root canal just buys time. Sometimes one can get lucky and a root canal can last 15 years or more.
After the procedure, patients must return to the dentist to receive a crown or other restoration for protection. This also restores full functioning of the treated tooth.
A Dental Implant is an Alternative to Root Canal
Even after learning about what a root canal does and how it helps people with damaged teeth, many people continue to worry about getting the procedure. This is understandable, and there is an alternative.
Many dentists recommend dental implants instead of root canals. Especially if the tooth in question is severely damaged. This can help prevent additional procedure in case where root canals are not predictable.
Most people who shy away from getting a root canal do not know exactly what it does and what the procedure entails. This leads them to being afraid of what may or may not be true. The real concerns with root canals are more about, time, money, health and what happens after you get a root canal. The procedure itself is not too scary.
Is it Better to Get a Root Canal or Implant
Keep reading to learn all about what a root canal is, what it does, and why you may need one. This article also shares an alternative to a root canal that you may not have even thought of, which may ease your worries over the procedure. Dentists are taught in school to save teeth. Most dentists will not recommend extracting a tooth that can be “saved” with a root canal. Is a dental implant an alternative treatment to a root canal? People who need root canals may choose to replace teeth with implants instead of doing root canals once they understand all the risks, treatment options and potential complications.
Implants are Made of Either Non-Metal Zirconia or Titanium
Titanium is a gray metal-based dental implant. Titanium has been the gold standard for years, but research has shown titanium slowly corrodes in biological systems and can cause a problem for those who are allergic to metals. Corrosion and breakage can also occur over time with titanium implants.
Zirconia Dental Implants
Zirconia are ceramic based dental implants. They contain no metal, which greatly reduces the risk of allergic reaction. Zirconia implants do not corrode and they are the same color as natural teeth. Research has shown that titanium corrodes in biological systems and can be the cause of developing allergies, sensitivities, immunological issues and implant failure. While many people believe that ceramic is much easier to break, over the years, the dental industry has been able to strengthen the ceramic in such a way that has made them highly durable. This has made it possible for zirconia dental implants to last a lifetime.
When people choose to have dental implants in place of their damaged teeth, they usually do not have to worry about dealing with those particular teeth again. Unlike root canals, dental implants do not get cavities or cause abscesses. This comforts many people because they don’t want to continue having dental procedures because previous ones were ineffective in treating the entire problem.
The best choice may be to simply get dental implants now. If you’ve waited on getting the root canal, the chances that the procedure will save the tooth are much lower. This means the root canal may be ineffective and you may need to have the tooth extracted and get a dental implant anyway.
Many dentists will urge patients to use titanium implants because they are less expensive and most dentists are only trained to do titanium implants. It’s also the first type of dental implants the industry used, so many dentists simply feel comfortable with what has always been used. With all of the advancements in the dental industry, there’s no reason for people to continue getting titanium for their dental implants. The newer, metal-free dental implants were designed to provide more long-term benefits to patients, and people should be able to take advantage of them. There are certain cases where titanium implants may be a better choice such as areas where the teeth are very small, short or the patient has a severe clenching and grinding issue. Titanium implants are easier to work with in patients who need a full mouth of teeth replaced with implants.
Why not to get a root canal
The pulp can become inflamed or infected if people suffer from tooth decay or tooth cracks and chips. It’s inflammation or infection that causes people pain it teeth. If the pulp becomes infected or severely inflamed, a root canal involves removing the pulp of the tooth, cleaning and filling the roots of a tooth. Once a tooth gets a root canal it is necessary to get a crown to rebuild the top portion of the tooth.
Root canals relieve tooth pain
A root canal is effective in getting rid of pain in a tooth. Of course the pain goes away because there is no longer a nerve in the tooth. When the root canal is complete the tooth is no longer alive and cannot feel pain. The roots are sealed with a rubbery filling material and adhesive cement. Unfortunately because teeth are porous like sponges, it is impossible to get all the bacteria and pulp tissue out during a root canal.
Highly concentrated bacteria and toxins grow inside root canals
The reality is bacteria and fungus in the tooth grow over time and concentrate. Eventually enough bacteria can leak out and infect the bone under the tooth. People can get a painful and threatening bone infection. Many people believe the bacteria and filling material in the root canal can cause health problems when bacteria, fungus, toxins or filler from the root canal leak to other parts of the body.
Can a root canal make you sick?
No one has been able to directly prove that root canals can cause health problems. Certainly any yucky stuff leaking out of a root canal can do bad stuff. It all depends on the impact bacteria, fungus and root canal fillers can have on a human body. The impact from one person to the next is probably going to be different. And for that matter, the kind of bacteria and fungus are not going to be the same from one root canal to the next.
Are root canals safe video
Root canal teeth are dead
The one common theme is a root canal is a dead part of the body (unlike any other) where bacteria, fungus, toxins and and pathogens can live without any immune system defense. Disease is a complex process and root canals have been done for years. Root canals are probably one of those proceed with caution things. Many people have had root canals and did not get sick. It may be that a root canal can be a risk factor. Or it may be a coincidence that people with root canals get sick with issues that can be blamed on a root canal, but whether the root canal is the cause is debatable but cannot be proven.
Are root canals painful?
Most patients report a root canal is not painful. This is due to modern technologies available to make the procedure much less intensive than it used to be a decade or more ago.
After the procedure, patients report the treated tooth is sensitive and may still be painful, but no more than what they felt before the procedure. It can take a couple of days for the pain to subside as it finishes healing.
The biggest reason to get zirconia implants is they are white like teeth. Zirconia implants will never show a metal color by the gumline. And there will never be metal corrosion, metal allergies or sensitivities to a ceramic implant because they are metal free. Both zirconia and titanium are biocompatible, but ceramic implants have the edge in this area. There are many reasons not to get titanium and zirconia implants, but in general implants have more pros than cons.
Titanium Implants have been the gold standard
Titanium has been the preferred material for dental implants for the last 40 years. Titanium implants are affordable and they produce very satisfactory results compared to dentures and false teeth. Putting titanium implant roots into the jaw is a simple process for a trained implant surgeon and a fairly routine outpatient procedure for the patient. Thus titanium implants have become increasingly popular over the years, but there have been some reasons for concerns more recently.
Do titanium implants corrode and cause metal allergies?
Research has shown titanium can corrode over time in biological systems, causing allergies, sensitivities and possibly even implant rejection. Due to these concerns, other non metal implant options such as zirconia implants (made of ceramic) are increasing in popularity. Zirconia implants have been done since the 1980s in Europe and in the USA since 2007. Zirconia has many benefits since it receives comparable results to titanium, is non-metal and tooth colored.
Zirconia is an Alternative to Titanium
Zirconia dental implants have not been around for as long as titanium, but they are quickly gaining recognition. These ceramic implants made their debut in the U.S. in 2007, but dentists were using them in Europe since the 1980s.
Zirconia has a Lower Risk of Allergic Reactions
Scientific research revealed that many people have allergies to metal, specifically nickel and titanium. When these metals are present in the mouth, it can cause reaction or in the case of titanium, unexplained implant failure immediately or years later. Ceramic, or non-metal implants, pose no threat for allergic reactions to metal because zirconia is not a metal.
Zirconia is better for Thin or Receding Gums
Titanium implants can show on people who have thin or receding gums. The implants can corrode and tattoo the gum so it starts looking gray and metallic. It is also possible to see the metal of the implant through thin gum tissue. This is obviously a cosmetic problem for any tooth showing metal in the smile zone. This is not the case when people choose ceramic implants since the entire implant looks natural and tooth-colored.
More Attractive and Cosmetic
Ceramic dental implants are white, which means they are most like the color of people’s teeth. Most people who have these types of implants report that no one ever notices they have them.
Just as Stable
Zirconia implants are just as stable as metal ones because they have similar bone to implant contact. People who choose non-metal teeth implants will experience similar or better success with them. Ceramic can be used to replace single teeth or to replace all teeth with full mouth implants.
Better for the Mouth
Zirconia is better for the mouth than titanium. Titanium implants tend to accumulate more plaque than ceramic. Less plaque means fewer oral issues, such as gingivitis.
Biocompatible means the body accepts the ceramic in the body. Metal is not completely biocompatible since it corrodes. That means as a metal corrodes and breaks down, the immune system can be stimulated to attack because it detects a foreign body. This is the reason titanium dental implants have a greater risk of failure than titanium. And this is especially the case with people with metal allergies and sensitivities.
Withstands Pressure
When many people think about ceramic, they immediately envision their dental implants breaking. This is not accurate. Ceramic implants are strong and durable. They actually can withstand great pressure, which has surprised many people.
Comfortable
People who choose zirconia implants report they are comfortable. They also say that chewing with them is easy, and much like chewing with their natural teeth. This is because of their biocompatibility and strength.
Holistic
People who are search for holistic dentistry near me are happy to know that ceramic implants are the most biological choice. They do not influence movement or block energy flow through the meridians of the body. At least not to according to most acupuncturists and integrative energy specialists.
Lower Incidence of Infection
Zirconia implants have a one-piece design instead of two piece one like titanium. A two-piece design means there’s a small opening between the two parts that could lead to getting bacteria stuck in it. This can lead to inflammation, bone loss, and implant failure. This is not an issue with ceramic implant’s with one-piece structure. Some zirconia implants have two piece design, but in general zirconia as a material collects less bacteria than titanium because the nature of zirconia as a material.
One Surgery
Non-metal implants are built to be placed into the mouth immediately following tooth extraction. This can be much more comforting to patients. This also minimizes the implantation time and speeds up healing.
Lower Risk of Infection from Surgery
Since the surgery is less invasive than metal implants, there’s little chance of infection. People are more likely to want to choose surgeries that have a lower risk of infection because that would entail more recovery time.
Easier to Maintain
Ceramic implants are much easier to take care because they are most like natural teeth. They also don’t harbor bacteria like metal ones do.
Improve the Jaw Line
Implants made from ceramic fit into the mouth differently than those made of metal. Many people report that they like the look of their jaw line with ceramic implants.
No Adhesives
Since metal-free implants are strong and stable, they do not need messy adhesives to keep them in place. No one would ever want to deal with that. All they want are implants that look and function like natural teeth.
Less Likely to Have Bad Breath
Ceramic is bioinert, so it is less likely to absorb odor. Metal ones can absorb odor, so some people complain that they have to do more to keep bad breath away.
Reduced Dental-Related Health Concerns
Since the chances of infection, inflammation, and other oral issues are less, people do not have to worry about health concerns that can arise from periodontal diseases. With metal dental implants, gingivitis and periodontal diseases can lead to diabetes, heart disease, and many other life-threatening conditions. Zirconia implants help with gum disease. Periodontal disease is known to have an autoimmune component. Zirconia implants may be a better choice after gum disease, since they are more biocompatible than titanium.
No Metal Pitting
Metal-free implants don’t suffer from pitting like metal ones do, even if they have a lot of pressure applied on them with eating hard foods. Since they do not end up with pits, they don’t end up with the corrosion and bacteria-related issues like titanium does.
Peace of Mind
Zirconia dental implants simply provide better peace of mind over titanium ones. Since they are better for your body, look better, and provide the stability and strength you need, you can go through life feeling good about your choice in dental implants.
Choosing Metal-Free Dental Implants
Ceramic implants are rising in popularity because they are the better type of implants available in the dentistry industry. Many dentists will try to dissuade people from getting them because they prefer to use titanium, but it’s not the best choice for patients. Consider all of the reasons above for why ceramic implants are a much better option, and then decide if they are better for you.
Teeth clenching is caused by a small mouth with not enough space for all the teeth and tongue to fit properly into the mouth. A small mouth leads to crowded teeth, a bad bite and trouble breathing during sleep.
Do you wake up with your teeth clenched? Or gasping for air? Do you feel like you never get enough sleep? If so this post is all about how to stop teeth clenching, TMJ pain and sleep apnea. All of these things are linked and related to having a small mouth and nasal passageways. Millions of people suffer from tooth grinding or bruxism. Sometimes it is a minor annoyance and a nagging pain. But at other times it can be debilitating and cause migraine headaches and very poor sleep.
What Causes Night Time Clenching?
Night time clenching is usually more related to mouth breathing and airway obstruction conditions. When the mouth space is too small, the tongue falls into the throat and it blocks breathing through the airway. Teeth clenching wakes you up (into light sleep) as apart of a defense mechanism to help people get enough oxygen and be able to breathe.
Clenching During the Day
Daytime clenching is caused by poor biomechanical function of the bite. If you have a bad bite and poor jaw alignment, you are at increased risk of clenching your teeth. Most people with this condition also have bad posture and sometimes neck, back and shoulder tension. When the jaws are misaligned it causes forward head posture and a lot of upper body tension.
Treatment Options for Teeth Clenching Video by Dr. Adams
The key to curing teeth clenching and TMJ pain is addressing to root cause of the problem. Dr. Adams has adult expanders that can create space in the jaws. Two such appliances are the Vivos DNA and the Homeoblock appliances. If used correctly, these appliances can improve the bite, airway, breathing and sleep. Needless to say, the value of palatal expanders in correcting TMJ pain, mouth breathing and sleep cannot be overstated.
Day Time Vs Night Time Clenching?
There are two types of clenching: day clenching and clenching during sleep. Most people clench their teeth at night during deep sleep. Day clenching is usually caused by a bite problem where teeth hit harder on one side of the jaw. Or in-other-words, when the jaw closes properly teeth hit on one side of the mouth before the other. People will usually close their jaw and try to steer around the area where the bite is off. The “steering around” is usually realized as popping and clicking of the TMJ and deviation of the jaw when opening. This problem creates an uncomfortable condition where the jaw muscles do not have a place to be stable and rest properly when the mouth closes. Sometimes people who have recently had a lot of dental work done or who have had a lot of orthodontics done have this problem with the bite. Most people who clench during the day also clench their teeth at night which is the bigger problem.
What Causes Teeth Clenching During Sleep?
People who clench and grind their teeth at night time have small mouths and upper airway spaces. When the mouth is small, there often is not enough room for the tongue to fit and function properly. When people get into deep sleep all the muscles in the body relax including the tongue (a very large muscle). If the tongue does not fit, it gets displaced into the throat where it partially blocks the airway. At this point oxygen levels start decreasing and the teeth clenching reflex is activated. Teeth clenching wakes people up into a lighter sleep where the tongue comes out of the throat and back into the mouth. This is the body’s defense mechanism to maintain proper breathing during sleep. The phenomena is part of upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS).
management – an appliance that manages and reduces clenching
corrective – an appliance that creates more space, balances the bite and corrects the underlying causes of clenching. For example curing airway and bite problems.
Protective Appliances
Night guard or occlusal guard. People will still clench, but they will just clench the plastic. Most people will not tolerate this treatment because the clenching usually gets worse because there is more clenching on the plastic guard. It really is not comfortable as there is more muscle tension. The appliance also takes up space in the mouth and further crowds the airway.
Management Appliances
Bite splint for splint therapy. Splint therapy is the use of a plastic appliance to put the patient into a more open and forward bite. A splint puts the jaws into a more restful position and is a great way to relax the jaw when sleeping. If a bite splint is made properly, it will typically reduce clenching by 30-70%. Occlusal splints do not correct the problem, but they can relieve a lot of symptoms if worn during the night. Splints work much better than night guards because they relieve muscle tension and decrease clenching. People usually clench more on night guards. Splint therapy used to be the only treatment for TMJ till corrective appliances became available a few years ago. Splints must be worn during sleep forever to keep you comfortable. Splints will also need to be adjusted from time to time. Splints will also need to be replaced every 3-5 years as they wear out and begin to discolor and smell badly.
Appliances That Can Cure Teeth Clenching
Appliances that correct the cause of clenching work by creating more space in the mouth so the tongue and teeth fit better. Effective treatments are available for adults and kids. Treatments uses special expanders that stimulate a small amount of growth in the mouth and jaw structure. The new space in the mouth allows:
optimization of the bite relationship and biomechanics of the jaw structure
improved tongue function
more space for airflow and breathing
One such appliance for adults is the Vivos DNA Appliance. The appliance therapy corrects upper airway restrictions and creates more space for the tongue and teeth to function optimally in the mouth. Corrective treatment will stop teeth grinding during sleep permanently by getting rid of the reason why people clench their teeth. Corrective treatment is the best permanent jaw clenching remedy. Other adult growth appliances exist for TMJ pain including the AGGA and the ALF. But Dr. Adams favorite appliance for adults is the Vivos appliance.
Anterior Growth and Expansion With Dental Appliances Video
Symptoms of Teeth Clenching
jaw muscle pain
neck and back pain
popping in the jaw joint
headaches
sinus pressure
ear pressure and the feeling of fluid in the ear
tight shoulder and neck muscles and many others
Conditions that Increase Teeth Clenching:
Stress
Change in schedule
Irregular schedule
Bad weather and changes in pressure outside
Poor work conditions such as sitting at a desk all day, or working bent over
For starters, most people do not grind their teeth, but rather they clench. Clenching vs grinding. There is a difference. When grinding, there is a side to side or back and forth teeth rubbing action. Grinding makes a lot of noise typically and 90% people do not grind. Most people clench their teeth. Clenching is an action where the teeth are placed together and the jaw muscles tighten teeth down on one another top to bottom. Usually tooth clenching happens at night time. In fact 80% of people who clench their teeth, do so at night time and do not even know it.
Why do people end up with small jaws and a tight upper airway? It is a combination of improper tongue function due to tongue tie, genetics and a soft diet. The biggest cause of the problem is a limitation of tongue range of motion caused by the tongue tie restriction how far the tongue can move. The tie also can deform the tongue causing it to taper or curl downward on extension. In these cases, the tongue may not be able to reach the palate. The key to prevention in growing kids is diagnosing and treating tongue tie, introducing tongue exercises and dental arch expanders.
What are snap on dentures? Just what the name says- denture teeth that snap onto implants. dentures that snap in have many of the benefits of implants and the cost effectiveness of replacing teeth with dentures. Snap on dentures is the most affordable full mouth dental implant option. And if you want an upper denture without plastic covering your palate, this is just what the doctor ordered.
There are many problems with regular dentures. Standard dentures can come out while eating and sometimes even when talking. Snap in uses a special attachment system (made by Zest Anchors) that mimics the function of a snap on a winter jacket. The male snaps are secured by implants and the females are built into the underside of the denture.
Regular dentures vs snap-on denture costs. The price for snap on dentures consists of three phases of the procedure. First, all remaining teeth need to be removed as well as bone and gum grafting. Second, dental implants need to inserted into the jaws. Either 2 or 4 implants per jaw is usually adequate. If a denture without a palate is desired, at least 4 implants are needed in the upper jaw. Finally the dentures are designed and connected using the snap in attachment system. Snap on dentures cost depends on how many implants are used, how many teeth need to be removed and what bone grafting needs to be done. Most snap on denture procedure cost between 15K to 20K per arch depending on how involved and difficult the case is. And how many implants are used. For a full mouth of snap on dentures, we usually charge 25-35K all-in including all the extractions, grafting, sedation and temporary teeth.
What do snap in dentures look like?
Snap on dentures basically look like a small and more comfortable version of a regular dentures. But of course you will see the male attachment in the mouth. It looks like a short gold male snap. They stick up 2-4mm and are easy to clean with a tooth brush. The snap in teeth are made of acrylic (not porcelain). The teeth are very smooth, and beautifully mimic the appearance of natural teeth. The female attachment can be seen if the over denture is turned upside down.
How Do Implant Dentures Work?
Implant over-dentures get support from your gums and jaw bone during eating. And the implants and attachments keep the teeth stable so they do not move or become dislodged. Basically the implant denture is a traditional denture that snaps onto dental implants. The implants have a special connector called an abutment that acts like the male side of a “snap.” Inside the denture is a locator precision attachment that mimics the female side of a “snap.” Conventional dentures sit on the gums and fit less firmly. Snap-On dentures are anchored by multiple implants. The teeth are removable but do not slip and slide. With this simple and affordable solution you can forget about sores caused by loose-fitting dentures. The snap in teeth solution prevents teeth from coming dislodged during eating, talking or exercise.
Other complete dental implant options to consider:
permanent implant options are fixed in the mouth and are more stable and durable. They are also more expensive and costly. Fixed options are better for people with TMJ teeth clenching problems and sleep apnea.
Snap On compared to All on 4 Implants Video
Implant Denture Procedure:
Dentures that snap on require 2-4 implants per jaw for a full upper or lower set of teeth. The number of implants depends on the size and strength of the jaws. The number of implant needed per jaw also depends on the desired design of the teeth. For example, with four implants, the implant denture is designed without touching the palate. However, an upper denture design involving only 2 implants needs to cover the entire palate. Implants for this procedure are usually placed in the jawbone at the front of the mouth because there tends to be more bone in the front of the jaw than in the back. If 4 implants are to be placed, there will need to be two more implants placed in the back part of the jaw.
How Long Does it Take to Get Snap-On Dentures
Removable implant over denture cases can typically be completed in 2-4 months depending on the health of the patient and how much oral surgery needs to be done. In many cases teeth will need to be removed, bone grafting may need to be done. Of course, implants will need to be placed into the jaw. In cases where all the teeth are missing, only implants will need to be placed.
Usually, people only need one surgery but in certain cases two will be necessary. During the first surgery, any remaining teeth will be removed, bone grafting and hopefully the implants are placed into the jawbone. In certain cases, it may be necessary to allow the bone grafts to heal prior to performing implant surgery. If only one, surgery is necessary, the case can be completed in 2-4 months. If a second oral surgery is necessary, the case can take 6-8 months to complete.
How to Remove Snap in Teeth?
Snap-On dentures are removable and sometimes that can be an advantage. Obviously most people prefer teeth that are not removable, but they are more expensive and can be more difficult to clean. Sometimes permanent implant teeth can trap food and be uncomfortable. Snap on dentures are removable with forceful upward finger pressure. Special inserts in the attachment system can be used to make the snaps tighter or looser. The snapping is easy. When the denture is pressed downward gently onto the implants, the female attachments click onto the male attachment located on top of the implants. Snap-on dentures provide the strength and stability to eat foods and talk with confidence again. The removability allows the teeth and implants to be easily cleaned too.
As we know, dentures can come loose with simple actions as laughing, coughing or sneezing, and after a few times it stops being funny, and people start looking for a change that will prevent an embarrassing event. Having a beautiful smile is a priority for everybody, but what are the alternatives if dentures are not an option anymore? We believe implant snap on dentures may be the perfect solution for you if you need an affordable full mouth dental implant option. If you are willing to spend more money for permanent teeth, we also offer All on 4 implant teeth that are not removable.
Advantages of Snap-On Dentures Vs Normal Dentures
Stability from implant retention
No more denture glue or adhesive
Improved confidence
Easy to clean and maintain
More Affordable procedure than permanent All on 4 dental implants
Be able to eat and drink with confidence that your teeth will not fall out
Who is a candidate for snap on dentures?
Really anyone who is in need of a full mouth teeth replacement procedure. Or anyone who is tired of wearing loose fitting dentures that are not comfortable or stable. Implant dentures do a wonderful job of replacing lost gum, bone and teeth. The end result looks very nice, is very functional and is very affordable compared to other full mouth implants. Patients who are younger, should consider permanent implant options because they do a better job preserving bone over time. And permanent teeth last longer and require less maintenance.
Do Snap In Teeth Pop Out When Eating?
snap on dentures do not pop out during eating. Provided proper implant denture design (i.e., enough implants are used and there is adequate jaw and ridge support. Eating apples, ribs, corn, sandwiches should be no problem. All this being said, if someone tries hard enough, they can probably find a way to dislodge the teeth by biting hard enough in the right place. The only way to guarantee the teeth do not come out is to buck up and get permanent All on four implant bridges. Obviously snap on are the most affordable implants.
Do Snap on dentures need maintenance and repairs?
Absolutely. It is necessary to return to the dental office every 6-12 months, so the teeth and implants can be cleaned. The fit of the denture needs to be evaluated. Over time, the gums will change shape and fit will need to be maintained with a procedure called a denture reline. This should not need to be done more than every 2-5 years for a healthy person who has not gained or lost a lot of weight.
The female denture attachment inserts will need to be changed to keep the snap-in feature tight. This needs to be done approximately every 3-6 months. Generally, relines and snap-in inserts can be repaired in the dental office for a very small and reasonable fee. We include the attachment replacements with the bi-annual cleaning and check up visits for our denture patients. Relines are done less frequently and cost approximately $500. Often the fee is paid by insurance.
Problems with Snap on Teeth
They require maintenance every 6-12 months
They become unstable if the fit of the denture to the mouth is not good. Most people who are healthy and have stable weight, do not have a problem with this.
Acrylic teeth can wear and discolor over time. But they can be cleaned professionally in the dental offices. And new dentures can be made to fit the same implants. Replacing an implant denture costs 3-5K if connecting to the same implants.
If you chew hard enough, the teeth can come dislodged.
Acrylic can break if you chew hard enough over time. Most of the time, repairs can be made inexpensively in the dental office. Such as replacing a broken tooth. Or repairing a broken female attachment.
Bone grafting products are typically purchased from pharmaceutical companies. Bone products can guide bone cells where to grow bone and may additionally stimulate bone cells to grow bone. PRF is the only material that can guide bone growth as well as stimulate bone growth. PRF can also not get rejected since it is formulated from the patient’s own blood.
Many bone grafts are performed such as sticky bone. Sticky bone is basically a mixture of A-PRF, I-PRF and allograft materials.
PRF membranes for block bone grafts
membranes are absolutely necessary to create a barrier between grafting materials and gum tissue. The membrane basically helps prevent gum tissue from growing into bone graft products during healing. Bone has a natural barrier from soft tissue called periosteum. The membrane should be placed under the periosteum and over top of any bone graft materials. PRF can serve as a membrane in many situations.
Injectable PRF into areas of infection
I-PRF is a form of platelet rich fibrin that is rich in bone and tissue growth factors. I-PRF is an unclotted blood product. I-PRF will clot after a period of time, but it can be injected since it is a fluid and not a solid.
Injectable PRF to create sticky bone. PRF and L-PRF for grafting and concentrating bone growth factors during implant surgery
Normal aging of human body usually involves wear and tear of human cells and tissues. When we eat, grind, chew and bite with the set of our natural human teeth, wearing of surfaces of teeth also occurs. In our daily lives, we must monitor the use of acidic drinks, carbonated beverages, coarse foods and abrasive tooth powders which can accelerate the process of natural tooth wear. One of the leading causes of tooth clenching is obstructive sleep apnea. Dentists have corrective dental appliances for sleep apnea and TMJ.
What is Tooth Wear and Tooth Surface Loss?
Tooth wear is a special term which is used to characterize wearing or loss of hard tissues of natural human teeth due to reasons other than dental decay, accidents, trauma or disorders developing during child growth. Tooth wear is usually measured as vertical tooth surface loss from the top of the teeth biting edges downwards. How to avoid teeth clenching?
What Amount of Tooth Wear is Considered Normal?
According to research data, normal physiological tooth wear is approximately 20-30 micrometer per year or 1 millimeter after every ten years of human life especially when a person ages above 30 years. Wear above normal limits warrants close monitoring and management as soon as the problem arises and gets diagnosed.
This natural and progressive wearing of natural human teeth should be monitored and regular dental consultation must be done to overcome its adverse consequences.
Risks of Teeth Wear?
Worn down teeth are seen as short and reduced in length with yellowing of surfaces when enamel becomes thin or completely lost. Different problems caused by tooth surface loss or wear can be divided as:
Aesthetic impairment,
Compromised smile and appearance,
Short teeth,
Loss of fullness of mouth,
Fractured and unattractive teeth,
Chipping of teeth,
Discolored teeth,
Multiple restorations,
Fractured restorations,
Inability to chew and bite properly,
Difficulty in proper mouth functioning,
Mastication problems,
Lip and cheek biting,
Tongue biting,
Stress and anxiety,
Bruxism due to grinding and clenching of teeth,
Pain and discomfort,
Hypersensitive teeth,
Failure of bonded restorations,
TMJ pain disorder,
Small mouth opening causing breathing difficulties.
The Top 4 Kinds of Teeth Wear:
Wear by Teeth Attrition
Teeth attrition is physiological tooth to tooth contact and occurs most commonly on the chewing surfaces and edges of front teeth. Teeth grinding and clenching due to stress and anxiety accelerate attrition related tooth wear. Teeth clenching can also be a sign of sleep apnea or a bad bite. Tooth height decreases and biting surfaces become flattened,
Teeth Erosion
Teeth erosion involves chemical tooth wear. Excessive intake of acidic foods such as cola drinks, fizzy beverages and foods causes chemical tooth wear. On the other hand, diseases of the digestive system such as gastro-esophageal reflux diseases(GERD) which cause acids from the stomach to come into the mouth can cause erosive tooth wear. Cupping of chewing surfaces occurs in erosion,
Teeth Abrasion
develops when a foreign object frequently contacts surfaces of teeth. The offending object can be hard tooth brush bristles forcefully rubbing the teeth surfaces. Overzealous tooth brushing not only removes debris but it also damages tooth enamel resulting in worn down teeth. Nail biting, pin and pencil chewing can also cause abrasive tooth wear. Canines and premolars are most frequently affected and V shaped defects are formed on the front surfaces of these teeth near gums,
Teeth Abfraction
or stress corrosion is a special type of tooth wear which involves un-equal or eccentric occlusal or chewing loads on teeth. Areas of teeth near the gum line become weak and wear off in these cases.
How to Manage and Treat tooth wear
The management of worn down teeth due to tooth surface loss depends solely on the accurate and timely diagnosis of the exact cause behind the problem. Worn down teeth due to erosive wear cannot be managed through treatment planning for the prevention of abrasive tooth wear. Various steps for exact diagnosis involve,
Complete clinical history,
Comprehensive examination,
Intra-oral radiographs,
Diagnostic mock ups,
Sensibility tests,
Salivary analysis,
Well-articulated study models and casts,
Computer imaging.
Treatments for Tooth Wear:
DNA appliance therapy can correct the underlying cause of tooth clenching
Prevention of tooth wear depends upon the exact cause of tooth surface loss. Different measures which can be taken in this regard can be divided as,
Tooth density therapy is extremely helpful not only reducing sensitivity and discomfort due to erosive wear of natural teeth but it also reduces the potential of low PH cola drinks and erosive juices in dissolving tooth enamel leading to severe tooth surface loss. Treatments such as MI paste harden the surface of teeth and can slow tooth wear.
It is strongly advised to avoid tooth brushing soon after acidic challenge such as intake of cola drinks or after an episode of vomiting,
Remineralizing tooth pastes and gels are available which can harden tooth surfaces exposed to acids,
Desensitizing therapy is helpful in persons suffering from hypersensitive teeth due to worn teeth. Use of a 0.7% fluoride solution in the dental surgery followed by the home application of 0.4% stannous fluoride has been good results. Not all dentists agree that the use of fluoride is safe and many alternatives exist.
Tooth Mousse ACP (GC), contains an active portion which is derived from casein (part of a protein found in bovine milk) that has shown properties which can promote re-mineralization of worn tooth surfaces. This useful product is helpful for the passive management of tooth wear cases, when administered using a modified bleaching type tray,
Dietary counseling and beverage intake modification is helpful in the prevention of tooth wear. Addition of calcium to certain drinks can lessen erosive effect of drinks. Reduction in the quantity and frequency of the consumption of acidic fruits, fruit juices, carbonated drinks and cola beverages is helpful,
Intake of cheese containing foods or dairy products after acidic drinks will also help lessen the adverse effects of erosive foods,
Tooth wear affects more when saliva production is less in an individual. Measures must be taken for increasing saliva in such patients for the prevention of tooth surface loss,
Gums and lozenges which stimulate saliva production must be advised. Frequent sipping of water is also helpful,
Habit changes such as intake of acidic beverages through a wide bore straw and avoiding swishing beverages in the mouth will surely help in the reduction of the rate of dental erosive wear.
The avoidance of overzealous tooth brushing, the use of less abrasive toothpastes and refraining from using tooth powders and habits such as that of pen/ pencil biting will be extremely helpful,
Patients who suffer from night teeth grinding must be provided with hard acrylic splints for preventing attrition of teeth. Splint therapy is treatment of choice for these individuals,
Dentine bonding agents and sealant restorations must be provided in eroded chewing surfaces for preventing progression of tooth surface loss in these areas,
Whenever patients are suspected of some systemic disease such as those with erosive wear due to GERD or bruxism due to depression and anxiety, referral to the medical specialists must be done immediately.
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