Cleaning & Exams
Why should I get a dental exam if I’m not in pain?
If you wait until you are in pain, you already have a serious problem. On top of that, not all dental problems cause pain. By getting regular exams, you get the benefit of having dental professionals look at your mouth. We can identify potential problems or catch them in the early stages. That allows us to fix them before you may need expensive and invasive treatments.
Do dental cleanings hurt?
In the skilled hands of hygienists and dentists at Strong Roots Dental, a cleaning shouldn’t hurt. We always use a gentle touch, as well as comfort-enhancing equipment like an ultrasonic scaler. Cleanings may be a bit uncomfortable if you haven’t had one in a while. That’s because we may have to apply more pressure than usual to remove the tartar buildup that has formed. We can use local anesthesia to make you more comfortable, and our team is fantastic.
How often should I get a dental cleaning and exam?
To get the maximum benefit out of exams and cleanings, you should visit us every six months for these essential services. We remove the bacteria that causes disease and decay, lessening the chance you will suffer from cavities or gum disease. We also use digital X-rays to identify issues that may need attention.
Are dental cleanings and exams necessary?
According to the American Dental Association, you should brush your teeth at least twice and floss once every day. While this is essential for keeping your mouth clean and healthy, only a professional has the instruments and training to remove plaque buildup from your teeth and spot gum disease in its earliest stage. This is why you should visit your dentist for cleanings about every six months.
How long does a dental exam and cleaning take?
The length of these services may vary a bit, depending on whether we take X-rays or provide any preventive services like dental sealants. Usually, though, we can complete an exam and cleaning in about an hour. You may need to allow more time if it’s been a long time since you’ve seen a dentist.
How soon after my cleaning can I eat?
Luckily, there’s no reason to wait to eat after your cleaning. However, your teeth and gums may be a little sensitive. So, you may want to avoid extremely hot, cold, or acidic food and beverages for a few hours. Be sure to ask your dentist if you have any concerns about what you can eat or drink after your appointment.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Is cosmetic dentistry worth it?
Yes! You deserve to feel great about your smile, and if cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve that, it’s worth the investment. Not only can cosmetic dental treatments improve the appearance of unattractive, unhealthy teeth, but they can also lead to life-changing benefits that often come with a bright, beautiful smile. You’ll have the confidence to pursue the life you want!
What is a cosmetic dentist?
A cosmetic dentist offers cosmetic dental procedures that improve your smile’s appearance. Like other dentists, they attend dental school and earn a DDS or DMD degree. Afterward, however, they pursue advanced training in cosmetic procedures. They also participate regularly in continuing education to ensure they know all the latest techniques for smile beautification.
Is cosmetic dentistry permanent?
A few cosmetic treatments are permanent, including gum reshaping and teeth contouring. However, most cosmetic treatments will need to be repeated to maintain your beautiful results. Treatments can last anywhere from several months (teeth whitening) to well over a decade (veneers). Your dentist will provide more information on the longevity of our solutions during your initial consultation.
What can cosmetic dentistry do?
Cosmetic dentistry improves the appearance of your teeth so you can enjoy a more attractive smile – and everything that comes with it, like enhanced self-confidence. Cosmetic dentistry can give you a younger-looking smile by covering stains and other signs of wear and tear. With our wide variety of cosmetic services, you’ll be able to change any aspect of your smile that you don’t like.
How much does cosmetic dentistry cost?
Cosmetic dentistry covers a wide range of services, and each patient has different needs and goals. Because of this, it isn’t possible to give you a price on your cosmetic treatment without first performing an exam and working up a treatment plan. Once we know exactly what you want and need, we can give you an estimate on your smile investment.
Does insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
Most of the time cosmetic dentistry is not covered by dental insurance. We can help you check your individual plan to confirm this, however. To help with the cost of your smile care, we offer third-party financing through CareCredit. It offers attractive terms to help you achieve your new smile.
Teeth Whitening
How does teeth whitening work?
The whitening agent in our teeth whitening systems contains oxygen molecules that interact with the discolored molecules in your teeth enamel. The discolored molecules are broken up, and your teeth are left a sparkling white. Depending on your wants and needs, we can alter the level of whitening by changing the strength of the whitening agent and how long it’s applied.
Is teeth whitening painful?
Teeth whitening treatment is comfortable, especially when administered by our expert team. The custom trays ensure you keep the whitening gel on your teeth and away from sensitive gum tissue to avoid any irritation. Although some patients do experience mild teeth sensitivity following treatment, this usually goes away within a few days.
Can teeth whitening be permanent?
Teeth whitening isn’t permanent. You can expect its effects to last for at least a few months and up to a year if you take steps to control staining. This includes not using tobacco, practicing good oral hygiene, and avoiding staining substances such as coffee and red wine. It’s a good idea to rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or drinks.
What teeth whitening treatment is best?
Professional whitening provides brighter results than drugstore products. We use Zoom, which can make your teeth appear up to eight shades whiter. For the best and longest-lasting results, we recommend a combination of in-office and at-home treatments.
Will teeth whitening whiten fillings/crowns/veneers?
Teeth whitening won’t change the appearance of tooth fillings or of any other restorations, like veneers and crowns. The best way to keep your restorations looking bright is to practice good oral hygiene and to see us regularly for professional cleanings. We can often polish away any surface discoloration.
Which teeth whitening is safest?
Professional treatments that you get from a dentist are the safest. We only use products that we know provide great results without causing negative effects. Not only that, but our team is ready to help if you experience any issues. Only a few over-the-counter products have earned the ADA’s seal of approval.
Restorative Dentistry
What is the difference between restorative and cosmetic dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing damaged teeth and replacing missing teeth. Cosmetic dentistry is used to improve the appearance of teeth that are overall in good shape. There is some overlap between these two types of dentistry, as restorative treatments will often give a patient a more attractive smile, and certain cosmetic services such as tooth bonding can repair small dental damage.
What does restorative dentistry include?
Restorative dentistry covers multiple dental treatments that are designed to repair or replace your teeth, including tooth fillings, root canal treatment, dental crowns, bridges, dental implants, and full-mouth reconstruction. The dental experts at Strong Roots Dental use restorative dentistry to give you back a beautiful smile and strong bite.
What does restorative dentistry cost?
We offer a wide range of restorative dentistry services, and they all differ in complexity. That means each restorative treatment is going to vary in cost. Simple procedures, like tooth fillings, will cost significantly less than dental crowns, root canal treatments, and replacement teeth. Most dental insurance plans will cover a portion of restorative dental care to offset treatment expenses.
What is advanced restorative dentistry?
Advanced restorative dentistry covers those dental services that go beyond just placing a simple filling for a small cavity. Many patients have extensive dental damage and require a significant amount of treatment to repair this damage. Advanced treatment could include getting dental implants and securing new replacement teeth to them to restore your smile and bite.
What are the benefits of restorative dentistry?
Maintaining good oral health isn’t just about keeping your teeth and gums clean. You will also need dental treatment if problems arise like tooth decay, cavities, and oral infections. Restorative dentistry is designed to treat those types of problems – many of which can cause pain and disrupt the function of your teeth – to keep your smile healthy and help you eat comfortably.
Why get restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry helps you feel better about your smile – and yourself – by fixing teeth that have fallen into disrepair. Both your smile’s appearance and function will improve. In addition, restorative treatments can enhance your overall health by allowing you to eat healthier foods you may have been avoiding because of difficulty chewing.
All-on-4®
What does All-on-4® mean?
The All-on-4® procedure is an advanced dental implant placement technique. This process requires special training, and it offers some distinct benefits over standard implant placement. Using just four implants, you get secure, non-removable replacement teeth on the same day you get your implants.
How much do All-on-4® dental implants cost?
All-on-4® implants are the most cost-effective way to replace most or all of your teeth with implants. Only four implants are used to secure an arch of replacement teeth in your upper jaw, lower jaw, or both jaws. Once we have examined your mouth and developed a treatment plan, we’ll be happy to provide you with a cost for your care.
Are All-on-4® implants painful?
In most cases, patients experience minimal pain, if any pain at all. We are committed to making all our dental services as comfortable as possible for our patients. With a combination of modern technology, advanced techniques, and local anesthesia, we can place your implants practically painlessly. In time, your All-on-4® implants will feel and function like healthy, natural teeth.
How long do All-on-4 implants last?
Like other kinds of dental implants, those used in an All-on-4 procedure can last decades, or potentially for your lifetime. The restorations attached to your implants, however, will likely require replacement at some point. With care, your new teeth can last a decade or more. You can extend their life by taking good care of them. That includes following good oral hygiene practices, visiting us at least twice a year for checkups, and making positive lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking.
Are All-on-4® dental implants safe?
Yes, All-on-4® is a safe procedure when performed by professionals who have been trained to offer this service. This treatment is as effective as traditional implant placement options for keeping your new teeth securely in place. Like other implant procedures, this can preserve the health of your jaw, too, which is better for your long-term oral health.
What is recovery time for All-on-4® dental implants?
All-on-4® patients receive new teeth the same day they get their dental implants. These temporary teeth are used until your final restorations have been made and your gums and bone have had a chance to heal. Over a few months, your dental implants will fuse with your jawbone and become a permanent part of your mouth.
Oral Surgery
When is oral surgery covered by insurance?
Your dental insurance or medical insurance may cover a portion of your oral surgery. We recommend you check with your individual carriers to find out what they will and won’t pay for before you have any work done. That way there aren’t any big surprises in store for you. As a convenience, we offer third-party financing through CareCredit.
When can I exercise after oral surgery?
For the first 24 hours after oral surgery, you shouldn’t attempt any sort of exercise. Doing too much too soon can cause problems. For example, strenuous exercise could loosen the blood clot on a tooth extraction site and cause a painful dry socket. After the first day, limit your exercise to low-impact activities for a few more days to be on the safe side.
Does oral surgery cause jaw pain?
Many people do feel soreness after oral surgery, but that fades as you recover. If anything, oral surgery is done to alleviate pain and long-term oral health problems. Our dental professionals will be happy to advise you on the best way to recover from your surgery so you can get back to feeling like yourself as soon as possible.
Is there much pain after oral surgery?
The type of oral surgery you have will ultimately determine how much discomfort you feel, but rest assured our goal is always to provide the most comfortable dental care we can. For most of the oral surgery procedures we perform, over-the-counter pain relievers will take care of any discomfort. If needed, your dentist can prescribe something stronger to help you through the healing process.
Does health insurance cover oral surgery?
Generally speaking, health insurance policies are very particular about what they will and won’t cover. It is best to check with your specific provider to find out if your procedure will be covered and how much your portion will cost. Keep in mind, we offer several flexible payment options as well as third-party financing through CareCredit.
When would I need oral surgery?
There are several circumstances that might require oral surgery. If you or your loved one has a badly damaged or diseased tooth, it may need removal. Likewise, wisdom teeth often cause problems as they emerge and need to be extracted. Other procedures like bone grafts, sinus lifts, and ridge augmentations prepare for treatments such as dental implants. Gum grafts will repair receded gums and help them heal properly.
Smile Makeover
How much will a smile makeover cost?
Smile makeover costs will vary depending on the services you choose. For example, we offer multiple solutions for stained teeth. When we create your makeover plan, we will explain all the possible options, including cost. We’ll also try to keep your makeover as affordable as possible. We offer several payment options to cover the cost, including CareCredit financing.
How long will it take to get a smile makeover?
Every makeover is designed to meet the needs of the individual patient. After an initial exam and possibly X-rays, we can discuss which services can help you achieve your smile goals. Once we come up with a plan together, we can give you an estimate of the time it will take to create your new smile.
What does smile makeover mean?
A smile makeover is a plan to improve your smile using the cosmetic and/or restorative services that will give you the appearance you desire. We find makeovers work best with a comprehensive treatment plan rather than just undergoing individual services. Using a plan, we can help you create a realistic time frame and budget for your makeover.
What is a smile makeover?
A smile makeover is a customized smile improvement plan that you and your dentist have worked together to create just for you. It may combine several of our cosmetic and/or restorative dentistry treatments to give you just the smile you’ve been looking for. When your treatment is complete, you’ll be proud to show off your smile wherever you go.
How long does a smile makeover take?
Some treatments can be completed in a single visit to our office. Others, like certain kinds of dental implants or orthodontic treatment, may take months. Once we determine which services will best suit your smile, we can create a treatment schedule. We’ll do whatever we can to give you great results in the shortest time possible!
How much does a smile makeover cost?
Without first performing an exam and working up a treatment plan together, it is difficult to give you an accurate cost for your smile makeover. Many factors will play into your cost, including the number and kind of treatments your smile needs. We encourage you to schedule a consultation so we can get the process started on your smile makeover.
TMJ Treatment
Does TMJ treatment work?
Yes, our TMJ treatment has been able to help many patients over the years relieve their pain for good. No matter which type of treatment you end up going with, the team here at Strong Roots Dental will make sure it’s the right one for you. Besides you, no one wants your treatment to be successful more than we do.
How long does TMJ treatment take?
We understand you want to end the pain caused by a TMJ disorder as soon as you can. The truth is that treatment can take weeks or months depending on the severity of your situation and what needs to be done. For most patients, an oral appliance is the perfect solution in and of itself. For others, orthodontics or restorations may be needed to realign teeth to reduce grinding for the long term.
Will insurance pay for my TMJ treatment?
Your insurance may pay for part of your TMJ treatment. We can help determine what your plan will and won’t cover and what your portion of the cost may be. Keep in mind that we offer financing options to help pay for your treatment. We work with CareCredit, which has low-interest payment plans.
Is TMJ treatment worth it?
TMJ problems typically won’t go away without treatment. TMJ pain is usually caused when the joints in your jaw become inflamed. This commonly occurs because of two habits that put your jaw under pressure: clenching and teeth grinding. We can make a custom mouthguard for you that will stop these behaviors so that your jaw can heal.
Gum Disease Treatment
Why get gum disease treatment?
In its early stages, gum disease causes tenderness and bleeding but no serious dental issues. If left untreated, though, it can progress to a stage that causes bone and tooth loss. In fact, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. The best course of action is to seek treatment at the first signs of disease.
Can you cure gum disease at home?
No, you can’t cure gum disease at home – not even in its early stages. Gum disease is caused when bacteria-filled plaque and tartar build up in the area between your teeth and gums. This area can’t be reached with a toothbrush or floss. Using special equipment, your dental team removes all of the bacteria from this area and then smoothes your tooth roots to make it difficult for more bacteria to accumulate.
What is gum disease treatment?
Gum disease can be treated in a variety of ways, but the most conservative method is with a deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing. This is where your dentist or hygienist removes infection caused by bacterial plaque below and around your gumline and then smooths out your tooth roots so bacteria doesn’t return. Advanced gum disease may require other procedures to rebuild recessed tissue, like grafting, to prevent tooth and bone loss.
Do I need gum disease treatment?
If your gums feel tender or bleed while brushing and flossing, you may need gum disease treatment. These are symptoms of early-stage gum disease. If the disease progresses, you may also notice that your gums begin receding away from your teeth and you have bad breath no matter how often you brush.
Can I avoid gum disease?
The best way to avoid gum disease is by practicing good oral hygiene, brushing twice a day and flossing daily as well. It’s also important to visit your dentist for professional dental cleanings at least twice a year. Since smokers are more likely to get gum disease, you’ll lessen your risk if you stop smoking. If you notice any signs of gum disease, notify your dentist right away. Treating it in its early stages will enable you to avoid the tooth loss that can result from advanced gum disease.
What are gum disease symptoms?
You may not see the signs of gum disease on your own until its advanced stages, which is why it is often referred to as a silent killer. It’s also why your routine dental exams are so important. The earlier you spot periodontal infection, the easier it is to manage and, in many cases, reverse. Common symptoms to look for include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums, loose teeth, and persistent bad breath.
Dentures
Who might need dentures?
Dentures can replace either a few missing teeth or all your teeth, depending on your situation. We offer dentures in several styles to accommodate just about every patient. You can get partial or full conventional dentures that remove easily for cleaning, or you can stabilize your dentures with a set of dental implants for superior comfort and performance.
How long does it take to make dentures?
The exact time it takes to make dentures can vary significantly, depending on the style of denture, the materials they’re made from, and other factors. When we order your dentures, we can give you a much better time frame. However, most dentures require one to two weeks to be made professionally in a lab.
What can I eat with dentures?
With advances in dental technology, you can eat almost anything you want. If you have conventional dentures, you may need to change how you eat certain foods. You also may need an adhesive to keep conventional dentures in place. With implant-supported dentures, you can eat anything because you can bite practically as well as someone with a full set of teeth.
How much do dentures cost?
Dentures can vary widely in cost, depending on the style you choose and your individual circumstances. We would need to examine you and develop some treatment options before we could give you an accurate estimate. We do offer third-party financing through CareCredit to make your dentures more accessible.
When do dentures need to be relined?
It is possible to reline dentures that have become worn and that feel loose or are prone to falling out. Modern dentures are made of acrylic resin, which is durable but also fixable. It’s a good idea to check your dentures regularly for signs of wear and tear. Bring them into our office, and we can take care of them for you.
What to do when dentures don’t fit right?
Many individuals who get conventional dentures notice that their dentures become looser over time. If you are having this issue, you can have your dentures relined. This will refit them to match your mouth. Another option is to get implants to secure your dentures. Implants also help prevent bone loss, which affects how your dentures fit.
Dental Veneers
How long will my dental veneers last?
In most cases, you should expect your new veneers to last a minimum of 10 years. Much of the durability of your veneers will depend on the types of foods you eat and your oral care routine. If you tend to eat hard, sticky foods that can damage your veneers, they will not hold up as long.
How do dental veneers work?
Dental veneers are a great catch-all cosmetic dentistry solution. They can conceal dental damage, deep stains, crookedness, gaps, chips, cracks, and other smile flaws. With a pristine exterior, no one will ever know about the flaws that lie beneath. We can discuss the options for dental veneers and other smile makeover treatments when you are here for your free consultation.
Can dental insurance cover veneers?
Insurance typically won’t cover veneers if they are used strictly for cosmetic purposes. If veneers are needed to repair damaged teeth and keep them from suffering further damage, it’s possible that insurance may cover part of the cost. We don’t want a lack of finances to keep you from improving your smile. So we accept third-party financing to make your treatment accessible.
Are dental veneers painful?
Your dental veneers treatment should be completely comfortable. For some types of veneers, we will need to remove a small amount of tooth enamel to prepare the teeth for veneers. In these cases, we can use a local anesthetic to ensure you don’t experience any discomfort. The process of actually applying the veneers to your teeth is completely pain-free.
Do dental veneers look fake?
Dental veneers from an experienced cosmetic dentist will be made to blend in perfectly with your natural smile. Because they are custom-made just for you, these dental restorations fit perfectly, too. They’re made of a thin porcelain that replicates the same translucence of real tooth enamel, yet they’re tough enough to protect the teeth behind them so that any concealed damage doesn’t worsen as the years go by.
Can you whiten dental veneers?
Teeth whitening will not work on dental veneers. For this reason, we encourage our veneers patients to first whiten their teeth to the desired level of whiteness. Then, we can match your teeth veneers to your radiant new smile. To keep your teeth their brightest and most attractive, periodic whitening treatments in our office or at home will do the trick.
Same-Day Smile
What does same-day smile mean?
You can receive your dental implants and temporary teeth in just one appointment. We’ll remove any remaining teeth that you have and place your new implants. You can actually leave our office and go get something to eat immediately after! Same-day smile means exactly that – you’ll have the smile of your dreams in just one day.
How much money do I need for a same-day smile?
There is no way to predict the cost of a same-day smile until we examine your jaw. We’ll take digital and 3-D images to get a good look at your jawbone and develop a plan for implant placement. Once we’ve gathered all of the necessary information, we’ll let you know your options so that you can make a decision that works for you.
Am I a good candidate for a same-day smile?
Good candidates for same-day smile are patients who have a strong, healthy jawbone. We’ll determine your jaw’s health during your consultation appointment when we take images and assess your overall and oral health. Even if same-day smile isn’t the right solution for you, we’ll help you determine what other options may be available to you so that you can smile and chew confidently.
What is a same-day smile?
A same-day smile procedure allows you to get your dental implants and new teeth all in the same day. In just one visit, you can get a mouth full of beautiful, functional teeth that you’ll be proud to show off to everyone. We can even remove any remaining teeth at the same time to make room for your new teeth.
How much does a same-day smile cost?
Every person is different, and each patient has a unique set of needs. Once we’ve had a chance to examine you and take digital images, we can give you an accurate estimate of your investment in your smile. We’ll make sure you have all the information needed to decide what’s best for you and your smile.
Who is a good candidate for a same-day smile?
If you have a strong and healthy jawbone, then you may be a good candidate for a same-day smile procedure. When you come in for your initial consultation, X-rays and 3-D imaging will help us determine if your jaw is thick enough to get your implants and new teeth all in one day. Even if a same-day smile isn’t right for you, we have other implant options that will give you back your teeth.
Dental Emergencies
What are some common dental emergencies?
Common dental emergencies include toothaches caused by cavities or infection, cracked or broken teeth, and broken dental restorations. With our team’s years in practice, we have significant experience in handling all these situations. We will relieve your discomfort and restore your mouth to health with restorative treatments.
What should I do for emergencies on weekends?
We’ll offer you a same-day appointment for emergencies whenever we can. This may not include weekends, however. You can typically relieve any pain you’re feeling with ice and/or an over-the-counter medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. For severe pain, pain with a fever, or bleeding that won’t stop, we recommend visiting the emergency room.
Can I prevent dental emergencies?
No one can anticipate every possible dental emergency, but you can take steps to reduce your odds of having such a problem. Following ADA recommendations – brushing and flossing daily and getting regular dental cleanings – reduces your risk of tooth infections and gum disease. Wearing athletic mouthguards during sports can protect your teeth from injuries.
Can you help with my dental emergency?
Over many years of dental practice, our team has helped countless patients with their dental emergencies. You can rest confidently in our team’s skills and expertise to help make your smile right. Our top-notch dental team delivers compassionate and gentle care and will make sure you receive the best treatment possible during your dental crisis.
What can you do for my dental emergency?
When you come in for a dental emergency, we’ll first assess your condition to determine the next steps. Depending on your situation, we will recommend particular services to restore your smile. They may include a tooth-colored filling to repair dental decay, a dental crown to strengthen a damaged tooth, a root canal to repair an infected tooth, or a tooth extraction if we’re not able to save your tooth.
What if I have a dental emergency without insurance?
Just because you don’t have dental insurance doesn’t mean you shouldn’t receive the same level of care as someone who does. We’ll happily treat your dental emergency, and we provide several payment options to take care of the cost, including third-party financing through CareCredit. We’ll do our best to make sure you get the care you need.
Invisalign
Who does Invisalign not work for?
Invisalign can address many of the same issues as conventional braces. However, not everyone is a candidate for a clear aligners treatment program because sometimes the severity of the problems requires a more intensive solution. That said, you will never know the best way forward for your unique situation until you schedule an Invisalign consultation appointment with us.
Is Invisalign visible?
Barely. Unlike classic braces made of stark metal brackets and wires, these modern orthodontic aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable, clear plastic that is virtually invisible. This means you won’t draw any unwanted attention to the construction zone in your mouth, and there won’t be any awkward questions or stares from onlookers during your months of treatment.
How does Invisalign work?
Unlike traditional braces that use metal brackets, bands, and wires, Invisalign uses clear plastic teeth aligners to straighten your teeth. You simply slide the aligners over your teeth and wear them for at least 20-22 hours a day. You can freely remove your aligners for eating, brushing, or a special occasion, so long as you put them back in when you’re done.
When will I see results from Invisalign?
Unlike traditional braces that force you to wear metal brackets and wires for two or three long years, Invisalign clear aligners can deliver amazing results in months – usually about 12. Obviously it is different for everyone, but the sooner you get started on your transformative journey, the sooner you will get to enjoy that stunningly straight smile.
Is Invisalign painful?
Invisalign uses a series of plastic teeth aligners so that your orthodontic treatment is as comfortable as possible. The aligners don’t contain any metal, so there is nothing to irritate sensitive areas inside your mouth. All you have to do is pop the aligners into place over your teeth and live your life. You can feel free to remove them for eating, brushing, and special occasions.
How much does Invisalign cost?
To give you an accurate price on your Invisalign treatment, you would need to come into the office for an initial exam. We’ll look at the structure of your teeth using digital imaging, then work up a treatment plan based on what we see. We could then provide you with the cost for your Invisalign treatment.
Mouthguards
Are mouthguards supposed to stay in place?
Yes! Since they can’t protect your teeth if they don’t stay in place, a good fit is important. Unlike store-bought mouthguards, custom mouthguards are made using impressions of your teeth. This means they will fit you perfectly, with no frustrating boil-and-bite process needed. A mouthguard that fits well is also more comfortable, so you won’t be tempted to not wear it.
Are mouthguards covered by insurance?
Your insurance policy may cover a portion of the cost of your new mouthguard. We recommend checking with your individual carrier to see what your policy does and does not cover. We’ll work with you to maximize your insurance benefits. Plus, we offer several flexible payment options including third-party financing through CareCredit.
How do mouthguards help bruxism?
A custom-made mouthguard works by putting a barrier between your teeth. This barrier not only protects your teeth from damage caused by grinding, but it also cushions the muscles in your jaw. Relieving the pressure put on your jaw by grinding and clenching usually relieves TMJ pain and related symptoms like headaches.
Where can I purchase a mouthguard?
While so-called boil-and-bite mouthguards are available from big-box retailers and sporting goods stores, we recommend that you let our team have a professional mouthguard made for you. We’ll take impressions of your mouth, then our lab partner will custom-craft your mouthguard to these exact specifications. The result will be a better-fitting, better-performing mouthguard.
Which mouthguards work best?
A mouthguard that is custom designed just for your mouth will always outperform one that’s bought off the shelf. It will provide better protection for your teeth against injury, fit better and feel more comfortable, and last longer than an over-the-counter appliance. For this reason, we always recommend that our patients come to us to get a mouthguard.
How do mouthguards help TMJ?
While the exact cause of TMJ disorders is unknown, many people who suffer from this painful ailment clench their jaws and/or grind their teeth. These habits, often caused or exacerbated by stress, in many cases take place while you are sleeping. Wearing a custom mouthguard at night gently positions your jaw in a way that prevents these behaviors and facilitates the healing of your TMJ.
Dental Implants
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies, depending mainly on how many implants you receive. In some cases, you may also need another procedure, like a tooth extraction or bone grafts, to prepare for implants. We’ll discuss cost with you during the planning stage of your implants procedure so you know exactly what to expect. Financing options can make your care manageable.
When should I get dental implants?
If you are missing any number of teeth, you owe it to yourself to consider getting implants. They are designed to function as artificial roots for your replacement teeth. Implants make crowns, bridges, and dentures more secure. They prevent bone loss by stimulating your jaw, and they restore your biting power so you can eat anything you want.
Can dental implants come loose?
A dental implant requires a sufficient amount of healthy bone to fuse with, so we’ll make sure your bone is in good shape before we begin your treatment. After your implants are placed, they will fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once your implants are fully fused, there is little chance they will come loose, although the replacement teeth anchored to them will need to be replaced periodically.
Do dental implants hurt?
Having a dental implant placed is not painful because your jaw will be numbed. Once you go home, you might require pain relievers for a day or two, but most of our patients report only taking over-the-counter medication following their dental implant procedure. Most feel well enough to return to work the day after.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that serve as artificial teeth roots when you’ve lost one or more teeth. We insert them into your jawbone, where they will integrate with your bone and become a sturdy base for replacement teeth. Your dental implant restoration options include crowns, bridges, dentures, and an All-on-4® restoration.
Can dental implants be removed?
Technically, dental implants can be removed, although it is unlikely you would ever need to have that done. Once your implants have been placed in your jawbone, they completely bond with it and can last for decades, if not the rest of your life. Your replacement teeth that are anchored to your implants have an average life span of five to 10 years.