Please join us for our first Invisalign Production Day! Transform your smile with Invisalign clear aligners. We will be providing consultations to answer your questions about Invisalign treatment. Patients will receive a scan with our new iTero® digital impression scanner, $500 OFF, free whitening AND will be entered into our raffle for a brand-new TV! Snacks will be served! Limited spots available.
Secure yours TODAY! And tell a friend!
When: Wednesday, December 14, 2022
Time: 2:00PM- 7:00PM
Where: 3V Dental- 91 Main St, Port Washington NY 11050
Call: 516-944-7000
***$50 Deposit to secure your appointment will be applied to your treatment. Financing options available. Payments can be as little as $129 a month.***
Dental implants are medical frames surgically inserted into the jawbone to support replacement teeth. Typically, the dental implant system constitutes an anchor, the primary implant body, and an abutment supporting prosthetic teeth. The two sections connect using an abutment fixation screw. There are four types of dental implants: single-stage, two-stage, subperiosteal, and endosteal implants. These medical devices are convenient for individuals with missing teeth due to accidents, jawbone loss, and health complications such as periodontal disease. Many folks prefer dental implants to other tooth replacement options because they feel natural and remain stable, preventing artificial teeth from slipping back and forth. More so, there is no need to adjust the surrounding teeth when inserting dental implants. The latest study reveals that with a 97% success rate, over 3 million dental implant insertions occur annually in the United States.
Factors Affect Recovery After Dental Implant Surgery
Smoking
Smoking is one of the primary factors that affect the success rate of dental implants. Health experts say smoking interferes with the body’s natural healing process. Keep in mind that inserting implants involves a surgical procedure. For that reason, smoking increases the risk of developing infections. What’s more, you are likely to experience excessive bleeding during and after the procedure since nicotine causes vasoconstriction.
Hygiene
Dental surgeons insist on maintaining good hygiene after the surgery. Poor dental hygiene causes multiple infections, thus compromising the healing process. There is a need to practice good oral hygiene to keep bacteria at bay. Experts recommend brushing at least twice daily and flossing to prevent plaque buildup. One ought to care for prosthetics as they do for natural teeth.
Bone Mass
The majority of people with missing teeth experience jaw bone loss. Dental implants require enough bone mass for proper osseointegration—the lesser the bone mass, the slower the healing time. Dentists often recommend bone grafting several months before the surgery for individuals with inadequate bone mass.
Diet
Similar to most dental procedures, implant post-care requires one to be picky with diet. Spicy, crunchy, and acidic foods interfere with the healing period. The spicy and sour food increases sensitivity, thus causing too much discomfort. On the other hand, crunchy and hard foods exert a lot of pressure on the implants. This increases the chances of slipping back and forth. During the first few weeks, it is advisable to have soft meals such as mashed potatoes, chicken, fish, eggs, bananas, and well-cooked vegetables, to mention a few.
Dental Expert Skills
It is prudent to conduct background research before settling for a dental surgeon. A certified expert performs a less invasive procedure using the proper equipment. A less skillful dentist will compromise the integrity of your implants. Besides that, you may develop multiple infections that affect your general health.
At 3V Dental Associates, we have the expertise to ensure a successful dental implant surgery.
Caring for Your Implants While Recovering
Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
As has been noted, good oral hygiene prevents plaque buildup. The standard recommendation is brushing teeth at least twice a day and flossing. However, avoid touching the surgical area for the first few days, as it is still too sensitive. The aggressiveness results in a wound, increasing the chances of developing infections. When the tenderness and sensitivity reduce, you can gradually begin to cleanse the area with gentleness. In conjunction with that, avoid sticky foods, which can be problematic during cleansing.
Use Saltwater Rinse
Saltwater is a natural disinfectant. After the surgery, use warm salt water three to four times daily. Avoid Listerine for the first few days as it increases sensitivity. Your dentist may recommend the best mouthwash to use at the time. Also, be cautious when swishing mouthwash: the vigorousness will irritate the surgical area.
Is Pain Normal After a Dental Implant Surgery?
The surgical procedure itself is pain-free due to dental sedation and the application of numbing agents. Nevertheless, expect to feel some minor pain and discomfort after the surgery. Acknowledge that this procedure involves creating an opening in the gums; therefore, you will notice bruising, and inflammation after the numbing agents wear off. The peak of pain and discomfort lasts for three to five days, after which it begins to subside. If you feel too much pain after two weeks, consult your surgeon, as this may be an alarm that something is wrong.
What Foods Should I Avoid After Dental Implant Surgery?
• Hard foods: carrots, ice, nuts, seeds, candy, corn on cobs, popcorn.
How Long Until I Fully Recover from Implant Surgery?
The standard healing time after surgery is six to eight months. However, the recovery period may vary for individuals depending on the cause of receiving dental implants.
Factors that Influence Implant Surgery Recovery Time.
Crowns are one of the most common dental restorations available, with thousands of patients visiting the dentist daily for a crown nationwide. Removable restorative treatment is meant to provide durable retention for years to come, and Glidewell Crowns, with our same-day service at our Port Washington dental office, are the solution every patient needs.
Glidewell.io is a new generation of same-day lab and treatment technology that allows you to receive crowns, bridges, and implants with the convenience of being able to stay at home while your treatment is completed. This process removes the need for multiple appointments, extended treatment times, and expensive office visits.
3V Dental + Glidewell: The Perfect Same-Day Crown Process
The Glidewell process uses a state-of-the-art milling system to create the final crown in the exact shape of your teeth. This process allows the material to be removed faster, more precisely, and with more consistent results than any manual means of creating a crown.
At 3V Dental Associates, we use a high-density resin material that is much stronger and more durable than traditional porcelain. It will give you a crown that can withstand the pressures of chewing and speaking and any type of physical damage.
After the crown is made, it is inserted in a special resin with the same texture and feels like natural tooth enamel. Through this process, you’ll have a beautiful smile, and natural-looking teeth that can stand up to anything life throws your way.
Advantages of Same-Day Crowns from 3V Dental in Port Washington
Glidewell.io has several advantages over traditional dental crowns and bridges. Some of our key benefits include:
1. Highly aesthetically pleasing, the aesthetic value of crowns and bridges is challenging to match with any natural tooth structure. With Glidewell.io, you’ll be able to have a perfectly-fitted crown that will look like a natural tooth structure due to its unique material and appearance. The result of the same milled crown. While other techniques sometimes achieve this kind of crown, imperfections in the milled finish often lead to unsightly scratches and aesthetic concerns. With Glidewell.io, you’ll have a high-quality, milled finish that can last for years.
While other techniques sometimes achieve this crown, imperfections in the milled finish can lead to unsightly scratches and aesthetic concerns. With Glidewell.io, you’ll have a high-quality, milled finish that can last for years.
2. With Glidewell.io, you’ll have a single treatment with laboratory and treatment costs significantly lower than traditional crowns. A faster, more comfortable process. Our real-time video process allows us to see exactly how your teeth are positioned to provide the most precise available fit on your teeth. It means you won’t need to wait any longer than traditional crowns, and you’ll experience minimal discomfort throughout the entire process.
Our real-time video process allows us to see exactly how your teeth are positioned to provide the most precise available fit on your teeth. It means you won’t need to wait any longer than traditional crowns, and you’ll experience minimal discomfort throughout the entire process. Minimal bleeding.
3. Digital scanning and milling allow for precise cuts, meaning you won’t experience any bleeding during the procedure. Only one appointment is required. Because our crowns are milled to fit your teeth exactly, we can provide you with a perfectly-fitting crown from start to finish in a single visit. Moreover, this is combined with an excellent new resin material that is stronger and more durable than any traditional crown or bridge.
Same-Day Crowns vs. Typical Crown Procedure
A typical dental crown procedure can take up to three separate appointments to restore your teeth with a high-quality crown. It includes an initial appointment where the tooth is cleaned and shaped, a second appointment for the temporary crown, and another appointment for the permanent crown.
With the Glidewell process, you’ll be able to have all of these treatments completed in one day. We will use our state-of-the-art milling technology to create your custom crown at our lab facility. Once the crown is ready, we’ll send the finished product to your home or office and have the restoration placed on your teeth.
How Long Will My Same-Day Crowns Last?
With the technology we use in our Glidewell Same-Day Crowns, we can ensure your crowns will stay in place as long as a regular porcelain crown. It means you can enjoy years of service and beautiful smiles without worrying about whether or not your crown will hold up.
Schedule Your Same-Day Crowns Today at Our Port Washington Dental Clinic
If you’re ready to experience the Glidewell.io Same-Day Crown process, contact us today! We are here to help with any questions you may have and to schedule a consultation.
Your teeth are a very important part of your appearance. When you open your mouth it’s the first thing that a person sees. Unfortunately, there are a lot of common foods like coffee and tea that can stain your teeth. These are more obvious, of course. However, there are some sneaky culprits that can also stain your teeth which can lead to discoloration.
Here is a list of foods and drinks that can stain your teeth:
1. Fruits and Berries
While fruits and berries are very healthy for you, some such as pomegranate, blueberries, and cherries contain pigments that can get trapped within your teeth. Once that happens, the natural white color will be reduced and your teeth will look dingy.
2. Dark Sauces
If you cook with a lot of sauces like soy sauce or Worcester sauce, it can cause your teeth to yellow. These sauces contain vinegar which can also eradicate the enamel on your teeth.
3. Hard Candies
The same thing these candies affect your tongue is the same effect it will have on your teeth. The sugar and dye will definitely give your teeth a yellowish, dingy glow. And tooth decay is also something to be considered.
4. Popsicles
Same with candy. Popsicles have dye and if you eat them frequently, they will cause discoloration in your teeth.
5. Clear Sodas
People may think because the drink is colorless it will not change the color of your teeth. False. Even clear sodas can stain your teeth due to the high sugar content.
6. Sports Drinks
People are often fooled by these drinks because they are marketed as healthy. Well, health has little to do with tooth staining. These drinks are high in sugar and they also come in a rainbow of colors. So the dye and sugar can quickly discolor your teeth.
7. Curries
If you use a fair amount of this bright-colored spice, your teeth will suffer. Curries contain pigments that will cause your teeth to yellow.
8. Tomato-Based Products
Tomato-based products have a high acidity level. And this can do a number on the color of your teeth and eradicate your tooth enamel. So be aware if you consume a lot of tomato-based products like spaghetti, ketchup, soups, and other such products. Be aware, because it doesn’t take a lot to do damage.
9. Wines
If you drink a good bit of wine, your teeth can suffer over time. Wine contains acid and natural dyes that can erode enamel and change the color of your teeth. Red wine is the worst. It can cause your teeth to take on a brown or even blue appearance.
10. Tumeric
This exotic Indian spice is a yummy addition to your meal. However, it contains yellow pigments to make your teeth appear dingy and yellow over time.
Tips to prevent staining
Brush your teeth after consuming tooth-staining products
Cut down on foods and drink that can stain your teeth
Remember, your teeth are an important part of your appearance. No one wants to display a dingy, yellowing smile when they open their mouth. So if you consume a lot of food and drinks that can potentially alter your tooth color, take the necessary steps to keep that white, bright smile.
Many people wonder whether they can get braces as an adult. The answer to that question is yes. Contrary to popular belief, you are never too old to get braces. Even though most people get braces in their pre-teen and teenage years, the number of adults getting braces is growing. It is estimated that only 35 percent of adults do not have a bite issue.
According to the American Dental Association, there are over four million people in America who have braces. Twenty-five percent of these people are over the age of 18. If you are not happy with your smile, then it is a good idea to ask your dentist if braces are right for you.
One of the reasons that braces are often recommended for pre-teens and teens is because their jaw is still developing and growing. However, teeth also have a tendency to shift as you get older. That is why you may find yourself needing braces even if your teeth were straight in your teens.
Regardless of whether you are 16 or 60, you can benefit from getting braces.
Common Myths About Braces
It is important to dispel the common myths that people have about getting braces as an adult.
Myth: You Need to Get Treatment for Years
Fact: There are several factors that affect your treatment time. This includes the problem that you are getting treated and your individual needs will determine how long you will need treatment. However, many people are able to get their treatment completed in just three months.
Myth: I Have to Wear Metal Braces
Fact: Metal braces are still an option. However, our office offers Invisalign. The Invisalign can straighten your teeth just like regular metal braces can. However, Invisalign is more comfortable for you to wear, and it can be removed. They can also be used to correct a variety of issues including bad bites and crooked teeth.
Myth: It Is Inconvenient for You to Get Braces
Fact: Our dentist’s office makes it convenient for you to get the treatment that you need. We have diagnostic equipment that will make it easier for us to customize a treatment plan. We also have technology that allows you to get the treatment that you need with fewer trips to the office.
The Benefits of Getting Braces As An Adult
Cosmetic
Braces can greatly improve your smile. A nice smile will improve your overall appearance. You can confidently smile.
Prevent Gum Disease And Tooth Decay
The benefits of braces are not primarily cosmetic. If your teeth are straight, then they will be a lot easier for you to clean. This can protect you from gum disease and tooth decay.
Correct Speech Issues
Speech issues are common for people who have braces. If you have braces, then you can correct the speech issues. It will be a lot easier for you to enunciate words.
Reduce the Risk of Tooth Trauma
Bite issues and misaligned teeth can lead to an injury. If your teeth are in their proper position, then they will be less likely to get injured.
Improve Health
Braces can greatly improve your health. For example, if your teeth are lined up properly, then it will be easier for your body to digest food. Chewing is the first part of digestion. Straight teeth have an easier time grinding up food.
Shifting teeth can put a strain on your jaw bone. Bacteria is also more likely to build up in your jaw bone if you cannot clean your teeth properly. This can lead to bone loss. Getting braces can greatly improve your bone health.
Interested in braces but looking for a more modern solution? 3V Dental Associates is proud to offer Invisalign. Invisalign® takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using a custom-made series of aligners created for you and only you by our dental team located right here in Port Washington.
Contact us today to schedule your Invisalign consultation!
Be cautious when choosing your teeth whitening products
A majority of the tooth whitening products available on the market today contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The quantities of these two ingredients will vary from product to product. However, even small amounts of these two ingredients can cause tooth irritation, thus leading to mild or severe tooth sensitivity. The irritation arises when the peroxide penetrates the tooth enamel to reach the softer layers where the tooth nerves lie.
The use of whitening gels also exposes the tiny pores in your teeth, leading to teeth dehydration. This moisture loss makes the teeth more sensitive to touch; only after your teeth have rehydrated will the sensitivity disappear. The degree and duration of tooth sensitivity will vary depending on the peroxide concentration in the whitening gel.
As always, consult with your local dentist or the American Dental Association before applying products to your teeth or gums.
Teeth whitening services by dentists
Professional whitening by an accredited dentist ranks as one of the best options for teeth sensitivity issues. Professional whitening procedures, though a little bit more costly than over-the-counter teeth whiteners are a safer option than homemade bleaching gels because they allow your dentist to monitor your progress throughout the treatment carefully.
In-office Zoom! teeth whitening is an example of a professional whitening procedure. It entails the insertion of a tooth retractor to expose the affected teeth. The dentist will then apply a resin or rubber casing on the impacted teeth to the peroxide from causing gum irritation which is the primary cause of teeth sensitivity. The dentist will apply a thin coat of bleaching gel on your teeth for a period of 15 to 30 minutes.
Should you opt for a professional whitening kit, the expert will study your dental formula, which will be used to design a whitening tray. The professional kit will comprise of the whitening tray and a suitable bleaching gel for home use. Most whitening trays are meant to last for up to two weeks. Porcelain and resin veneers
Porcelain and composite veneers are ideal for people with severe teeth staining that cannot go away after conventional whitening procedures. The porcelain veneers attach to the tooth enamel. To install porcelain veneers, your dentist fixes tailor-made shells on top of each tooth. Porcelain veneers are popular because of their high resistance to staining. The high tensile strength of porcelain makes it ideal as a tooth veneer.
Composite resin veneers can be a safer option if the tooth sensitivity is due to enamel erosion. The resin is a shaded material that binds to each tooth rather than covering the tooth enamel. Though not as strong as porcelain, composite resins are still a good option because they are affordable and maintainable. It is advisable to talk to your dentist or guidance on the most suitable veneer if you have tooth sensitivity issues.
Best practices to maintain teeth whiteness for sensitive teeth
It is essential to carefully through product labels before purchasing any whitening gel or toothpaste. Though some whitening products are specially formulated for sensitive teeth, reading the product erases the doubt that you won’t worsen an already delicate situation. Lastly, instead of opting for peroxide-rich whitening gels, you can consider using fluoride gels and fluoride-rich toothpaste because of their teeth strengthening qualities.
You don’t have to live with stained teeth because of acute sensitivity. Your favorite dental team can help you reclaim your smile by suggesting a suitable whitener that will lead to brighter and stronger teeth.
Let’s face it, most people groan when they have to visit their dentist, but there comes a time in everyone’s life when it becomes inevitable. You know how it goes: you’re eating your favorite dessert after a long day of work when you feel a sickening “crunch” as you take a bite. Before you know it, chips of your tooth are in your hand, and you’re left scratching your head in confusion.
More commonly, individuals may experience a dull ache that crescendoes into a staggering pain that leaves their head aching, pressure behind their eyes, and foul-smelling breath. Whatever your dental scenario may be, dental implants are a topic many of us find interesting, but few of us explore the intricate details behind the procedure. If you’re interested in dental implants and want to know the telltale signs that you’re more than ready to get the process started, here’s what you should know.
What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?
Dental implants are, in basic terms, a relatively new way of approaching oral health and dental integrity. Where certain procedures attempt to address underlying issues and repair a patient’s tooth, dental implants replace the entire tooth and replace it with durable and reliable materials.
Each tooth is surgically implanted into the patient’s jaw bone using titanium or titanium alloy anchors. Once the anchors are in place, the surgeon sets each tooth in its correct position to give a youthful and aesthetic appearance. After a few months of healing, the patient’s naturally-occurring bone fuses and grows around the titanium brackets as if they were a part of the individual’s jaw bone.
But before you panic and think you’re going to have a new set of teeth with a comical appearance, there’s good news! Dentists and oral surgeons have relied on dental implants for over five decades, and the implementation of each set of teeth looks identical to their natural counterparts. In simple terms, patients can dramatically improve the appearance of their smiles while eliminating problematic oral issues and dental abnormalities in the process.
Furthermore, patients opt for full dental implants on account of how effective they are at restoring their oral health. Within four to six months of the procedure’s completion, patients can experience a vibrant and radiant smile they lost to decay, misalignment, periodontal disease, and extreme discoloration.
When Should Dental Implants Be Considered?
Like most questions in life, there’s no easy answer. For most patients who undergo total dental implant surgery, the process was a simple decision that came out of their necessity to live a pain-free existence. Once their day-to-day interactions and quality of life began declining because of their lackluster oral health, getting dental implants was their next step. For readers who are on the fence about consulting with their dentist, here’s when you know it’s time to consider dental implants:
Excessive dental deterioration
Blunt trauma
Missing teeth or extreme cracking
Unable to use dentures
Bridges causing discomfort or deterioration of the jaw bone
Rapid bone loss in the jaw
If you’ve noticed your face becoming sunken or misaligned from your oral integrity, it’s time to consult with your health provider. While keeping your teeth healthy may seem trivial or burdensome, poor oral integrity can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, sepsis and death.
Give Yourself a Reason to Smile Again
Your oral health and dental appearance are an extension of yourself, so why settle for less than you’re worth? Not only will you enjoy your new smile, but you’ll reap a plethora of beneficial side effects from your new set of teeth.
For starters, many patients find their overall mood changes, and their sense of pride increases over time. When you’re dealing with rotten teeth that ache every waking minute, your personality and mental health shift over time. The process may seem slow at first, but before you know it, you’ve slipped into a depressive state because of your dental health.
More importantly, dental implants can act as a preventative measure for fighting off ailments, such as halitosis, oral ulcers, white patches, cardiovascular issues and much more. If you’re ready to take the plunge into your new life, let us help you get started on your journey to a healthier, happier tomorrow!
Losing a tooth for any reason can bring both oral health and quality of life consequences. Luckily, today’s dental medicine has devised many options to help your mouth and jaw adjust and give you a cosmetic fix to remedy missing teeth. At 3V Dental Associates in Port Washington, we’re proud to be the leader in dental bridge technology in Port Washington, and the Long Island area.
A dental bridge is one such tool that your dentist may recommend after loss of one or more teeth. This dental device can work in a number of ways to accommodate tooth loss based on your personal situation.
In this article, learn what is a dental bridge for teeth, how does a bridge work to close gaps when a tooth is missing, different types of bridges, how to care for a bridge and more.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
This is a permanent prosthetic device that is designed to fill in gaps left by missing teeth.
Sometimes called a fixed partial denture, a bridge replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth and literally “bridges” the gap where one or more teeth used to be. Bridges can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain or a combination of these materials and are attached to surrounding teeth for support. Unlike a removable bridge, which you can take out and clean, a fixed bridge can only be removed by a dentist.
The device has two main parts: the pontic and the abutment.
The pontic is a type of fake tooth that is positioned to fit into the place where the missing tooth (or teeth) used to be – literally “bridging” the gap and filling it in.
The abutment is a type of hook or wing structure that secures the device into place.
They help to ensure structural integrity of your jaw, prevent tooth movement around the area of the gap, make it easier to chew and speak, guard against dental decay and gum disease and help safeguard the health of existing teeth.
They can also be faster and more economical to install than implants and they do not require any bone grafting prior to installation.
How Is a Dental Bridge Installed?
There are three different device types that can be used depending on how and where the tooth loss has occurred. Each device is permanent and cannot be removed (except by a dentist) once placed in the mouth.
Your dentist will be able to advise you on the best prosthetic type for your cosmetic and oral health needs.
What Are the Different Types of Dental Bridges?
The three different device types are as follows:
1. Standard Dental Bridge
This is the original device type, which is designed to be cemented to the two teeth on either side of the gap. It is also called a traditional or double-abutted device.
In the middle of the area of the gap there is a pontic to fill in the missing space.
2. Cantilever Dental Bridge
A cantilever device is quite rare and in most cases a dentist will recommend an implant over this type of device because implants are more secure.
However, if there is just one abutment tooth available around the gap (such as at the very back of the mouth or if multiple teeth are missing) a cantilever device can be used to fill in the gap.
3. Maryland Dental Bridge
A Maryland device is typically only recommended for areas of the mouth which do not bear the full brunt of bite and chew strength (such as at the front of the mouth).
This device has a pontic with “wings” on either side that are made of porcelain, resin or metal. These wings are what bond to the abutments on either side of the gap.
How Are These Dental Bridge Devices Placed in the Mouth?
Before one of these devices can be installed to fill in the gap left by a missing tooth, the teeth on either side of the gap must be prepared by your 3V Dental Associates dentist.
This is done by filing each one down and then placing a crown over each. This makes room for the pontic to fit into the gap and gives the abutment something stable and secure to attach to.
Taking the step to file down and crown any tooth that will help secure the device is important to safeguard the health of that tooth. Otherwise, the device may place unnecessary pressure on that tooth and cause stress that will eventually lead to cracks or even tooth loss.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
A person who is a good candidate for this type of dental prosthetic device usually has overall good oral health and not more than three consecutive missing teeth in the area where the device will be placed.
Any serious dental health issues such as widespread decay or gum disease must be remedied before the prosthetic can be placed.
It is also important that each tooth the device will attach to is healthy and strong or can be made to be so by use of a crown or even a dental implant.
If you have significant bone loss in your jaw in the area where the device is to be placed, you may need to have bone grafting and an implant placed before the prosthetic can be secured. This can add time and expense to the process but will greatly increase the odds of a successful placement.
Why Not Just Get Dental Implants Instead of a Dental Bridge?
This is a great question and is one that only your dentist is qualified to answer. In some cases, you may need both to ensure the device has secure and stable support on each side of the pontic.
And in other cases, one or more implants may better serve your oral health needs or gap issues over the long term.
Your dentist will be able to examine your mouth and recommend the best approach.
Caring for Dental Prosthetics and Dental Bridges
Your dentist here at 3V Dental Associates in Port Washington will give you specific instructions to care for this permanent prosthetic device after it is placed.
Because the device is permanent, you won’t be able to remove it for cleaning or inspection. Luckily, lots of different basic tooth care aids exist to help you clean and care for your new prosthetic at home.
There are flossing and brushing aids plus mouth gargles to deal with plaque, tartar and germs such as bacteria. Daily care will ensure your mouth stays healthy once the device is in place.
To schedule your dental bridge appointment with 3V Dental Associates here at our lovely Port Washington dental clinic, contact our helpful staff today.
If you didn’t get a chance to straighten your teeth as a child or a teenager, there’s no reason why you can’t take action as an adult. More and more, we’re seeing new advancements in adults orthodontic technology that makes it easier, cheaper, and more convenient (think Invisalign!) to get started on the path to a new, straight smile.
While not all children have the benefit of getting braces when they’re young, some do, but as we age, our teeth still shift a bit leading to dental malocclusions (misalignment). Our team at 3V Dental Associates in Port Washington specializes in clear adult braces with a minimal appearance, making it easy for you to get started.
While orthodontics and Invisalign fall under cosmetic dental services, they don’t have to carry the “cosmetic” price tag. Ask our team about our special Invisalign discounts and ways to help you make that smile affordable!
What are the Different Types of Dental Malocclusions?
There are many types of dental malocclusions, including:
You may have one or more of these dental health issues, and that is why you must have a customized orthodontic treatment. The process of choosing the proper orthodontics for you will depend on several factors, including your types of misalignments, how much you can afford for the treatment and your personal preferences. It is also a good idea to think about what your orthodontist suggests so that you will understand the amount of care that is required for certain types of braces or clear aligners.
What Are the Types of Orthodontics Available?
Type 1: Traditional Metal Devices
In the past, there was only one type of orthodontic device, and you may remember seeing your friends wear traditional metallic braces on their teeth. These types of devices are still available today, but the good news is that the brackets are smaller and the wires are thinner. In addition, a computer software program will analyze your malocclusions to determine how the wires are placed on your teeth along with how the wires are tightened every few weeks. This can lead to a shorter treatment time than your friends had when they were younger. However, it is important to remember that children have softer alveolar bones in their teeth, so the pressure from the brackets will move teeth quickly. Adults have firmer bones in their gums, so it can take a longer amount of time to complete treatment. Affordability is one of the most important benefits from metal braces because other types of treatments can cost more. Caring for these traditional devices requires special care to avoid breaking the delicate wires or dislodging the metal brackets. You must consume a healthy diet, but you should also restrict certain foods that can damage the brackets or the wires. In addition, you must learn how to brush and floss carefully between the wires and the brackets.
Type 2: Clear Braces
Today, you can select clear orthodontic treatment, and these devices are made from plastic, porcelain or ceramic materials. These types of braces are perfect for adults who want to have a beautiful smile without having noticeable brackets and wires. Clear brackets and wires are also designed with computer software, and you must use caution to avoid damaging the items. In addition to having a list of foods that you cannot consume, you must also avoid artificial dyes or brightly colored foods and beverages that can stain the ceramic, porcelain or plastic materials of the wires and brackets. While flossing and brushing, you should select toothpaste, floss and mouthwash that won’t harm the brackets or the wires. An advantage from wearing clear braces is that you may feel less embarrassed about orthodontic treatment as an adult because the items are practically invisible.
Type 3: Self-ligating Devices
If you are a busy adult, then you may want to limit your visits to an orthodontist’s office when you need to straighten your teeth with devices that have wires. Damon braces are special types of devices that have numerous self-ligating brackets. You won’t need to cope with elastic o-rings that degrade or break, requiring you to replace the items. Without the o-rings, the wires can move easily through the brackets. This can make the items less uncomfortable on your teeth, reducing the discomfort in your jaw, gums and soft tissues of the mouth. A benefit of these devices is that the wires are made from lightweight metals such as titanium, nickel and copper. Caring for Damon devices is similar to caring for your regular braces, and you must also follow your orthodontist’s dietary guidelines to protect the items from damage.
Type 4: Lingual Braces
Today, it is also possible to have the brackets of your braces placed on the backs of your teeth. Many adults prefer this type of treatment because the brackets are nearly impossible for others to see. While this is a wonderful benefit, the process of adjusting to the brackets may become difficult because your tongue will touch the brackets while you talk and chew food. In addition, you may need to use extra care while performing oral hygiene because it is important to remove all of the food debris from the brackets that are located on the backs of your teeth. However, by using small adjustable mirrors, you can use flossing picks and other tools to dislodge the food debris. It is also a good idea to buy and use an oral irrigator that emits highly pressurized streams of water against your teeth along with the wires and the brackets, helping to keep your mouth clean.
Type 5: Invisalign Clear Aligners
When you have mild to moderate dental malocclusions, your dentist may recommend Invisalign clear aligners. One of the best benefits from aligners is that the items are invisible on your teeth when you care for the items properly. When you are able to wear aligners, you will receive 20 to 30 sets that are made in a series. Each set is designed in a different way to apply pressure against your poorly aligned teeth. You can wear each set of aligners for two weeks before switching to the next set. An important part of the treatment plan with Invisalign is wearing the aligners for most of the night and day. While the aligners are removable, if you don’t wear the devices enough, then your teeth will shift back into the wrong positions. You are permitted to remove the aligners while you brush and floss your teeth, making sure to clean the devices to keep the items invisible on your teeth. To protect the aligners, you should remove the devices while you chew food or drink beverages. Caring for Invisalign aligners is easy by using mild toothpaste to wash away any plaque along with making sure to insert and remove the items carefully. One of the advantages from Invisalign treatment is that you can remove the devices for special occasions such as a business meeting or an event such as a wedding. Clear Invisalign aligners are the most popular choice for adults.
What Can Patients Expect from a Full Mouth Restoration?
There are many components to the human mouth and each of these must work together in harmony for good oral health and proper function. When one of these components is damaged, malformed or unhealthy, the overall health and normal function of the mouth can become compromised. Since the mouth is the gateway to the body, taking care of it is a must.
When there are multiple oral health issues in place, individuals have the option of seeking a full mouth restoration. With a full mouth reconstruction performed by our experience cosmetic prosthodontist dentists here in Port Washington, individuals can see improved function and a greatly improved smile appearance. If your smile does not function properly or you have multiple cosmetic concerns that are making you feel embarrassed about the appearance of your smile, a smile makeover is an option for treatment.
If you are interested in dental implants or full mouth reconstruction, it’s a good idea to discuss it carefully with your dentist first. If you are in good general health this treatment may be an option for you. In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. You may be medically evaluated by a physician before any implant surgery is scheduled.
What Is a Full Mouth Restoration / Construction?
With so many different components of a smile, it stands to reason issues can arise. Whether a person is born with abnormalities and oral health concerns or they develop over time, a full dental reconstruction is beneficial. With this process, individuals can ensure all of their dental needs will be taken care of properly, whether they be cosmetic or functional in nature.
Reconstructive dentistry involves multiple procedures and treatments that are carried out in succession, to improve the function and appearance of a person’s smile. Although each of these treatments can be performed alone, multiple issues with a person’s smile will likely require a full mouth restoration. The following are some of the treatments involved in a smile makeover.
Replace missing teeth
Repair teeth that have been damaged
Correct the jaw alignment
Treat gum disease
Treat oral diseases
Replace older dental work
There are several branches of prosthodontal dentistry involved in a smile makeover. The steps involved are carried out precisely to ensure the final result offers better function and a brilliantly beautiful smile. The following are involved in the reconstruction.
Implant dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry
Restorative dentistry
Neuromuscular dentistry
Orthondontics
Bruxism therapy
Some individuals may only need a couple of these services, while others may require multiple procedures to ensure their smile is made whole again. Each and every smile transformation process is custom-made for the unique needs of the patient. There is no one-size-fits-all approach that can be offered by our local Port Washington dentists.
While a smile reconstruction and makeover will use some of the same types of dental procedures for correction, they are carried out for different reasons. A makeover is done for mostly cosmetic reasons while reconstruction is carried out to return normal function to the mouth. Typically, reconstructions are more involved and require a lengthier process to accomplish.
Full Mouth Restoration / Reconstruction Process
The first step in the process is to schedule a comprehensive examination by our prosthodontist. During this examination, your dentist will carefully check the condition of the teeth, gums, and jawbone. All of the components of the mouth will be checked for signs of damage, malformation, or disease.
The dentist will make note of any cavities, tooth damage, or loose teeth. They will check all dental appliances to see if they need to be replaced. The dentist will determine if their patient will need any crowns, veneers, inlays, onlays, or bridges. The way the teeth align and how the jaws meet will also be noted, so the dentist can determine if any orthodontic intervention will be needed. It often takes a concerted and combined effort to get the best final results.
The gums will be carefully examined to check for any signs of gum disease. When the health of the gums is deteriorating, the teeth will not be healthy and could be lost. When pockets of infection develop, tooth loosening often occurs. As a part of the smile makeover, gum disease must be treated if it is present.
The temporomandibular joints will be checked for wear and tear. A stable bite is crucial for preventing uneven wearing of the teeth and for preventing pain while biting and chewing. In some cases, surgery is necessary to replace the joints when they become overly worn. Dental appliances can also be used to ease discomfort and correct the alignment.
Aesthetics is a big part of a full mouth restoration. Everyone wants to have a beautiful smile they can feel confident showing off. The size, shape, and color of the teeth can be modified with various dental treatments. The dentist will check the appearance of the teeth and how they match with the gums and lips. Aesthetic changes can be made in many ways to bring about a more beautiful smile.
Aside from a full examination, the dentist will take X-rays, make impressions, and take photographs. These play a big part in charting the treatment plan for the restoration process. The dentist will take all of the garnered information into account when deciding on the right methods of treatment. Those who are wondering how long does the process take will find answers to their questions at the consultation.
Is Full Mouth Reconstruction / Restoration Painful?
Aside from wondering about the price and the length of time involved, many people are concerned about feeling pain. With today’s advancements in dental care, procedures are more comfortable than ever before and healing times are greatly reduced.
Using sedation dentistry, individuals can be kept comfortable at all times, so their procedure can be carried out with as little discomfort as possible. Most people are able to continue their normal routine as they go through the steps involved in a full mouth restoration.
How Much Can a Full Mouth Restoration Cost?
There are many factors that will determine the price of a full mouth restoration. Obviously, the more treatments that are needed, the higher the cost. Many people who go through smile restorations will need work done to every tooth in the mouth.
Prices vary across the nation and depending on the dental office, and most cases are unique and customized to each of our dental patients. Some of the cost of the treatments may be taken care of by the patient’s dental insurance plan. In most cases, insurance will pay for some costs that are necessary for protecting the health of the mouth and restoring function. Dental insurance typically does not pay for any cosmetic dental treatments unless the patient has purchased a special plan.
For those who are concerned about the cost of a smile reconstruction, inquire with our dental office regarding payment plan options that can help to ease the financial burden. Before a patient becomes overly concerned about the cost, they should first discover their options, so they can learn about the steps that will need to be taken.
How Long Can I Expect the Mouth Restoration Process to Take?
The smile reconstruction process varies from patient to patient. These restorations are tailored to each patient. Most individuals will need more than one treatment, depending on the severity of their functional and cosmetic dental concerns.
The vast majority of 3V Dental’s full mouth restoration patients should plan on their reconstruction or makeover taking about one month. From that point, our dental team just needs to make adjustments to ensure you’re comfortable with your new smile. Orthodontic and surgical interventions can increase the time it will take for the process to be complete.
Patience is important because the steps can sometimes seem slow in the process, but each one is bringing an individual closer to their desired end result.
Once your dentist has drawn up the plan of care for their patient, they will be better able to tell how long the process will take. Although it can be lengthy, most people do not mind the wait times because they know their smile is going to look amazing. Simply viewing the before and after photos gives people the drive to keep going towards reaching their goal.
Full Mouth Reconstruction / Restoration Before and After
3V Dental Can Make Your Smile Beautiful
Tired of looking in the mirror and being embarrassed about your smile appearance? Do you have oral health issues that are causing you pain and making eating and talking uncomfortable? With a consultation mouth restoration appointment, you can learn about the latest advancements in dental technology that can allow your entire smile to be overhauled. Not only will you experience better function and the protection of your oral health, but you will also see your smile completely transformed.
If you are ready to experience a more functional and beautiful smile than you ever thought was possible, give our Port Washington office a call today and schedule your appointment. At your consultation, you will learn about your treatment options, the price, and what you can expect from the process.
We love seeing smiles transformed and once you have your smile makeover carried out, you will not be able to stop smiling at the world. Allow us to show you what can be done with our extensive before and after photos of fully satisfied patients.
