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How Often Should You Visit Your Dentist?

Over 100 million Americans do not visit their dentist consistently every year, and this has significant repercussions on the oral health of the population. Indeed, regular visits to the dentist are required to maintain good oral health. That being said, you are probably asking yourself the following question: How often do I have to visit my dentist? The answer to this question varies, contrary to most expectations. In this article, you will find the answer to the above question and an explanation of its reasoning.

The typical twice-a-year recommendation:

Truth or Myth?

You’ve probably heard the recommendation that you should visit your dentist twice a year. However, as funny as it may sound, this recommendation originated from an advertisement for toothpaste and not from actual dental studies! This recommendation is a good rule of thumb for many people, but should not be applied to everyone – depending on their oral health needs, some people may need to visit their dentist more or less often.

So, why do some people need to see their dentist less often and why should others visit more frequently?

The only person who can give you a valid and precise answer to this question is … your dentist of course! As mentioned above, some people need to see their dentist more than twice a year, especially those with a greater risk of dental disease and other health conditions that require visits to their dentist every 3 months, or more. Patients with good oral health overall will probably need to visit only once every 12 to 24 months.

Who should go to the dentist more often?

Pregnant women

With hormonal changes during pregnancy, gums can become red, tender, and sore. In that case, your dentist might recommend additional cleanings during your second trimester and early third trimester to help control gingivitis – hence the importance of seeing your dentist more often when pregnant.

Diabetics

Since people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, and since literature suggests that treating gum disease can help improve blood sugar control, having professional deep cleanings more often than twice a year is recommended for diabetic people.

• Smokers are more prone to periodontal diseases and more likely to have stained teeth, and therefore may need appointments more often.
• People with gum disease.
• People with a weak immune response.
• People who are prone to cavities or plaque build-up

Why are regular check-ups important?

They allow early detections of dental and oral issues, allowing better health management:

• Even if you brush your teeth twice a day and floss as recommended, you still need to visit your dentist. Patients are unable to detect things like cavities or gum disease before they get too advanced and painful. Regular visits make it possible for early detection of oral health problems, so patients can avoid them or halt their progress. An additional and major benefit is the fact that oral cancers are most often detected by dentists since they examine not only your teeth, but also your gums and mouth. These oral cancer screenings can therefore help detect cancerous lesions that can be more effectively treated when caught early.
• Ultimately, visiting your dentist as regularly as recommended will save you time, discomfort, and even money in the long run.

In conclusion, the better you take care of your teeth, the less chance you will have of developing cavities and oral health problems. In turn, you will need to visit your dentist less often. Brush your teeth twice a day as recommended, and do not hesitate to use dental floss, interdental brushes, or an oral irrigator. Your dentist might then lengthen the time between your visits! Always follow your dentist’s advice in terms of your next appointment for optimal oral health.

Suzanna Maria Sayegh graduated in Oral Pathology, earned a Master’s in Research and a Doctorate in Dental Surgery at the Saint-Joseph University of Beirut. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Aesthetic and Prosthetic Dentistry. It is her top priority to provide high-quality, minimally invasive dental care to each patient, respecting their individual goals and needs. She is currently writing for Bond Street Dental.

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Globally, approximately 3.5 billion people suffer from oral diseases and dental problems. As you might expect, the situation is worse in low- to middle-income countries.

In the US, the rate of edentulism (losing all your teeth) and other serious dental problems is declining. This is largely thanks to better oral hygiene, restorative dentistry, and easier access to quality oral health care.

But what is restorative dentistry and what does it do for your oral health? Let’s find out.  

What is restorative dentistry?

As a broad definition, restorative dentistry encompasses any type of dental procedure that is used to restore your teeth after some kind of damage. Often, if the tooth is not properly restored, the patient may suffer additional oral health problems. 

A common example is filling a tooth. When tooth decay sets in and results in a cavity, it is important to address the issue quickly. Otherwise, the problem could worsen, causing you to eventually lose the tooth. Additionally, the decay may spread to other teeth, further affecting your overall oral health. 

Restorative dentistry is not recognized as its own dental specialty. However, a general dentist is perfectly capable of performing restorative dentistry procedures and does so frequently. 

What is the difference between restorative and cosmetic dentistry?

Oftentimes, the terms restorative and cosmetic dentistry can be confused. Many of the procedures are the same, which is why it’s no wonder that people get them mixed up.

The main difference between these two types of dentistry is the reason why the procedures are being done. Restorative dentistry focuses on dental issues that, if not resolved, could lead to further oral health problems. Cosmetic dentistry, on the other hand, is more concerned with the appearance of your smile.

You can see why these terms are easy to confuse. Basically, it comes down to whether you need the procedure to maintain oral health or enhance your oral appearance.

It’s important to distinguish between these two dental fields in terms of cost.. Many insurance companies will only cover procedures required for a patient to maintain proper oral health. 

What is considered basic restorative dentistry?

If you think of routine procedures like general cleanings and exams as the first rung on the dental care health ladder, minor restorative procedures are one step up. Here are some of the most common procedures that fall into this category.

Fillings

Dental fillings to correct cavities are perhaps the most common type of restorative dentistry. The average American has 3 dental fillings and 25% of the population has 11 or more. It’s likely that you have a filling or two as well. If it has been several months since your last dental examination, it’s important to book a dentist appointment now to be assessed for tooth decay.

Cavities are filled with amalgam, a mercury alloy. Sometimes, you can easily see the metal color and other times a tooth-colored substance is used to hide the filling. The procedure is simple and very effective at stopping the spread of tooth decay and disease.  

Root Canals

Sometimes damage can extend through the tooth and into the root. This can happen because a cavity gets out of hand, if the tooth is damaged, or if it becomes infected for some other reason. 

Some people associate root canal with discomfort. However, in reality, modern-day root canals are straightforward procedures that are effective in restoring a tooth to health and preventing tooth loss. In fact, you can think of it as a more in-depth filling, because essentially, that’s all it is.    

The dentist simply drills a small hole in the tooth and clears out the infected pulp. The interior of the tooth is then disinfected and filled and the top of the tooth is covered for protection with a small crown. 

Tooth Extractions

Root canals and other procedures can help you avoid having a tooth extracted. Unfortunately, sometimes the damage is too great or the infection has spread too far and the tooth can’t be saved. 

In that case, the tooth will need to be extracted. This is another straightforward, restorative procedure. 

Losing a tooth can have further repercussions for your oral health, however. Without a replacement tooth filling the gap, other teeth may shift in the mouth. Having gaps in your smile also puts extra strain on your other teeth when biting and chewing. Furthermore, if you lose several teeth, the lack of support can lead to bone loss and even a change in your facial structure. 

For that reason, many people opt for further restorative dental procedures.    

Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing 

This sophisticated terminology indicates in-depth dental cleaning. Periodontal scaling and root planing is used when patients have active gum disease and need a more thorough cleaning underneath the gums.

What is considered  major restorative dentistry?

If your dental problems are not corrected with basic restorative procedures, usually you reach a point where you will lose one or more teeth. Then, one of these major restorative dentistry procedures will be required to restore your oral health. 

Major procedures will typically require more than one dental visit to complete. Find a dentist and start making regular visits before it gets to this point where your oral health is compromised.

Dentures

 Modern dentures are a viable option for many people who otherwise wouldn’t have teeth in either the upper and/or lower gums. Dentures restore oral functions for patients who have experienced severe loss of permanent teeth. 

Bridges 

You can think of bridges like a partial denture. They can be made to replace one or several teeth. Bridges are usually permanently inserted so you won’t have to worry about them falling out of your mouth. However, this requires grinding down the healthy teeth on either side to use as an anchor point in most cases. 

Implants

Implants are the dental prosthetic that is most like natural teeth. They are anchored by implanting a titanium post into the jawbone which acts as a replacement for the root of your tooth. A crown is then mounted on top but is virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. 

How much does restorative dentistry cost?

As you might imagine, the price of restorative dentistry depends on the procedure(s) you need. If you have dental insurance, many restorative procedures will be covered under your plan. However, any procedures that your insurance company considers to be cosmetic are usually not covered. 

Even if you don’t have insurance, basic restorative dentistry procedures are fairly inexpensive. You can expect to pay only a few hundred dollars or less. 

If the problems are not addressed early and advance to the point of losing a tooth, you could be looking at between $2,000 and $4,500 to replace one tooth. Full mouth restoration could end up costing as much as $60,000!

In other words, it’s far better for your pocketbook to visit a dentist and address dental issues early.

Where can I find restorative dentistry near me?

Dentists can detect cavities and other issues before you start feeling discomfort, allowing them to correct the problem quickly and easily before it becomes a major issue. In other words, don’t wait until you feel dental pain to visit the dentist. Visiting a dentist regularly can help keep major oral health problems from developing.

Don’t have a dentist? Not a problem! Find a dentist near you today and level up your oral wellness.

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One of the more common procedures that people visit their dentist for is a dental bridge. If you are unfamiliar with this apparatus, that’s understandable. Most people have only heard of the more mundane elements of dentistry, like fillings or scaling. 

However, bridges are important in restoring oral health functions to patients with tooth loss. They’re widely used to tackle various problems experienced in restorative dentistry. 

The following article will address everything you need to know about dental bridge types, benefits, procedures, and costs.

Read on to find out more!

What is a dental bridge?

A dental tooth bridge is a type of prosthetic designed to replace a missing tooth or set of teeth. Whereas proper dental implants include artificial roots placed within the gum, bridges function in a completely different way.

A bridge typically includes the use of one neighboring tooth on either side of the missing tooth or gap. These neighboring teeth are employed to help hold the bridge up. A false tooth is placed within the gap to “bridge” it and help cover it up. 

The neighboring teeth are often filed down until they can hold up a dental crown, which is a special, medical-grade cap that dentists place over filed or damaged teeth to restore them to their normal function. The missing tooth will also be bridged by a crown, but it may be significantly deeper or larger than the connected neighbor crowns in order to effectively fill the tooth gap 

Why would I need a dental bridge?

There are many reasons why you would benefit from a dental bridge if you have experienced tooth loss:

• Have you stopped smiling ever since your tooth fell out? Don’t worry, a dental bridge can help make things right again.
• Dental bridges can prevent your naked gum from developing an infection.
• Losing teeth results in losing the ability to chew food, but getting a dental bridge installed can help fix that.
• Sometimes a missing tooth may affect your gum and jaw structure, which is why it’s essential to fill in any missing teeth as soon as possible.

What are the types of dental bridges?

Many dental problems can be overcome using bridges, which is why dentists have invented a variety of different bridge types to help address each concern individually:

• Traditional Fixed Bridge: This is the most common type of bridge for restoring tooth loss. With this type, a crown is placed on the neighboring teeth located on either side of the gap left behind by the missing tooth. A filler tooth is inserted within the gap, held in place by the complementary crowns. Such bridges are typically made of porcelain fused to a metal or ceramic apparatus. This method works best when there are healthy teeth on either side of the missing one. However, these teeth will need to be filed down so that they may each support a new crown. 
• Cantilever Bridge: Cantilever bridges are employed when one of the neighboring teeth needed to support an additional new crown is missing. A total of two artificial crowns are placed within the mouth instead of the three that are typically used in a traditional fixed bridge. 
• Maryland Bonded Bridge: Alternatively known as resin-bonded bridges, Maryland bonded bridges are employed to replace missing front teeth. With this method, a pontic is attached to the adjacent healthy teeth. This tactic helps keep the new artificial tooth in place. It does not include filing or reshaping of neighboring teeth. 

What Is the dental bridge procedure?

Installing a dental bridge is relatively straightforward and can be completed within one to two in-office sittings. 

First, the dentist will clean the exposed gum and surrounding area. After this, they will file down the appropriate surrounding teeth and sterilize the area once more. The teeth are filed down just enough to help support an artificial crown. 

Next, a mold is created to make a bridge. Sometimes, dentists give their patients temporary bridges while they wait for their permanent bridge to be ready. 

Once this is done, your dentist will install the bridge using special dental cement. Sometimes, dentists may choose to anchor the bridge with a dental implant, but this is decided on a case-by-case basis.

How much does a dental bridge cost?

Dental work is never cheap. A traditional or cantilever bridge can cost you anywhere between $1500 and $5000. Maryland bridges cost between $1500 and $2500. If you choose to get an implant-supported bridge, you can expect to pay between $4000 and $15,000.

Luckily, having insurance can significantly reduce the cost associated with these procedures by up to 50%, bringing the maximum cost for a traditional or cantilever bridge down to $2500 with $1250 for a Maryland bridge and $7500 for an implant-supported bridge.

The exact cost varies depending on how intense the procedure is expected to be. 

How long does a dental bridge last?

Dental bridges typically last between 10 to 15 years, but this number can be increased or decreased depending on how well you care for your teeth. However, if you abuse and neglect the bridge, it may begin to disintegrate in just 5 to 7 years. 

Dental bridges can last longer if you brush your teeth regularly. Toothpaste containing silica is preferred and often recommended by dentists themselves. Flossing is essential, too! Try to avoid sugary foods or highly acidic drinks as these can deplete your bridge’s health. 

What are some potential problems with dental bridges?

Dental bridges are effective; installing them is a painless process thanks to anesthesia, and you can get done with it relatively quickly. However, this procedure is not without its problems. Below are some common potential issues associated with dental bridges:

• The teeth adjacent to the missing tooth are often filed down to help support a new crown, hence altering perfectly healthy teeth. You can’t get a traditional or cantilever bridge without filing down adjacent teeth. 
• Due to their complex structure, dental bridges are difficult to keep clean and therefore more prone to infections than implants or filled teeth. However, if you follow a strict hygiene routine, this shouldn’t be a problem.
• Bridges need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years.

You should keep these things in mind before committing to a dental bridge. There are many benefits of getting a bridge put in place, but there are some undeniable downsides, too. As a result, many people consider alternatives, the primary one being implants. 

Should I get bridges or implants?

The debate concerning whether you should get bridges or implants is long-running. 

Implants tend to last longer than bridges. They can typically offer you protection throughout your entire lifetime, whereas bridges won’t last you more than 10 to 15 years. Furthermore, implants are known to support jaw health. This is because they are entirely anchored within your gum instead of merely being placed over naked gum tissue. With implants, your jaw’s mechanics are not challenged and can continue to function the usual way. 

Dental bridges are also more likely to get infected as opposed to implants. Brushing and flossing around the artificial crowns can pose a challenge, and dentists may prescribe additional tooth care methods to help keep your bridge clean and healthy. 

However, if you brush regularly with toothpaste, keep yourself up to date with dental checkups, and floss in all the right places, your bridge will definitely remain free from infections.

There are many reasons why people prefer getting an implant over a bridge. However, bridges are still extremely common and have remained a dominant choice despite patients having the option for an implant.

The most essential convincing factor for this result is the cost. Bridges are significantly more affordable than getting an implant. Implants may require additional procedures, like grafting or a sinus lift, which only result in a higher final cost. 

Bridges do not require such additional procedures. Things like jawbone density or gum strength are not important and can easily be overlooked. Also, you can easily get a bridge placed without any required surgery. 

So, if you’re tight on budget or want to stay away from extensive surgical procedures, find a dentist and schedule a bridge appointment now! 

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are many different bridge types out there. A qualified dentist can help you decide which one is best for you. Before making an appointment, be sure to consider your available options.

Getting a dentist appointment can be a draining task, especially if you’re short on time and don’t know where to find a reliable dentist near you. However, once you get your appointment details in order, you’ll be glad you did. 

Dental work should never be put off, especially if it includes something as crucial as getting a bridge fixed. With the right care, your teeth will be set free of any troublesome pain in no time. 

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With more knowledge about dental hygiene and easier access to dental care, the rate of tooth loss is declining. However, 1 in 10 Americans aged 50-64 has lost all their teeth.  

It can be frightening to think about total tooth loss and how that would affect your future in terms of eating and speaking. In addition, replacement teeth in the form of dentures is not a desirable solution for many patients.

Thankfully, dental advancements have provided edentulous patients (people with no teeth) with an excellent option for replacing their missing teeth — All-on-4 dental implants. 

Don’t know what they are? Come along with us as we explore everything you need to know about all-on-4 dental implants.

What are all-on-4 dental implants?

Have you ever heard of a regular dental implant? For this procedure, a small hole is drilled into the jawbone to implant a titanium post. This post acts as a replacement for your natural tooth root. 

After the post is implanted, you’ll be sent home to heal for a few months. Once the tissue is ready, the dentist adds an abutment to the post to which a custom-made crown can be attached. 

It is the closest to a natural replacement tooth that you can get. Being fused to your jawbone, the implant is just as sturdy as a natural tooth and you don’t have to do anything special to take care of it: just brush and floss your teeth as normal.

All-on-4 implants are used when you are missing most or all of your teeth on either the top or bottom. An entire bridge is created to replace the missing teeth, but it is mounted on just four implants. This is far more cost-effective, less intense, and less painful than replacing each tooth individually. 

Furthermore, while individual implants go straight down into your jawbone, the four implant points for all-on-4 implants are inserted at a 45-degree angle. This is important because it allows for shallower implants. 

This means the procedure requires less healthy bone in the jaw to attach the implant. Most people won’t require a bone graft to support the all-on-4 implant. Plus, instead of waiting months for the posts to heal and fuse with the jawbone, some people can get their new prosthetic teeth fitted in the same visit as the surgery. Others may have to wait a few months for healing, as it depends on the state of their mouth.

Who is eligible for all-on-4 dental implants?

Most anyone with missing teeth or whose teeth are damaged beyond repair is eligible for the procedure. Even those who have already experienced bone loss may be eligible. Bone loss happens naturally when there are no teeth to support the jawbone. Furthermore, wearing the implant will help prevent more bone loss from happening. This will help maintain a more youthful appearance and is better for your overall oral health. 

Now that’s something to smile about!

Are all-on-4 dental implants removable?

Unlike partial or full dentures,  all-on-4 implants are not removable.

As you heal after the procedure, the implants fuse to your jawbone, creating a permanent prosthesis that is basically the same as having natural teeth in your mouth.

What are the benefits of all-on-4 dental implants?

Just from what we’ve discussed so far, it isn’t hard to see the benefits of all-on-4 dental implants. However, let’s take a closer look at each one here.

Feel like natural teeth

Another big issue with dentures as a restorative measure for severe tooth loss is that they don’t feel natural. This can cause issues with speech and discomfort when wearing. Some people even experience psychological distress from having a foreign object in their mouth.

While all-on-4 dental implants do add a little bit of bulk that can feel odd at first, most people acclimate quickly. Once the bone heals and the initial adjustment period has passed, most people no longer notice the implant in their mouth. 

By far, it is the dental prosthetic that feels most like natural teeth. 

Look like natural teeth

Beyond feeling like natural teeth, all-on-4 implants also look like natural teeth. If you look closely enough at dentures, it can be noticeable that the teeth are false. Additionally, if dentures slip around or fall out while speaking or eating, it becomes obvious quite quickly that your teeth are fake.

Dental implants won’t ever slip or fall out. They are firmly in place, just like your natural teeth. They are carefully crafted to closely resemble the teeth they are replacing. 

Single implants are usually colored to match the rest of your teeth. However, if you’re replacing all of them, you can have them made a few shades whiter. 

Finally, that bright white smile you’ve always dreamed of is within your grasp!

Help prevent bone loss

Have you ever noticed how the jaw of an edentulous person seems to be receding? Their whole face seems to be falling, the skin starts sagging, all of which can create an appearance of aging. 

Why does this happen?

The jawbone requires support to stay healthy and strong. With no teeth to support it, the bone begins to erode, creating that sunken face look. 

Dentures aren’t always a good solution. While they can help sometimes, if the dentures are ill-fitting they can actually speed up bone loss. 

An all-on-4 dental implant takes care of this problem for good. With the full arch in your mouth supporting your bone, you can retain your facial structure and enjoy a more youthful appearance. 

Easy to care for

You’re already used to flossing and brushing your teeth twice a day, or at least you should be. That’s all you have to do with an all-on-4 dental implant. 

There’s no messing around with popping your dentures out and letting them soak overnight or trying to stick them in with adhesives. Once the implant procedure is over and the bridge is mounted, you’re done! 

Depending on what caused your edentulous state in the first place, you might need to step up your oral hygiene habits or visit the dentist more often. Find a dentist here if you don’t yet have one.

Other than that, you can go on living life and stop worrying about your teeth. 

Better oral health

In an effort to avoid dentures, some people may be resistant to removing problematic teeth.  Unfortunately, in some cases, the teeth are beyond help. Leaving damaged teeth in your mouth typically only leads to more problems.

However, all-on-4 dental implants give people an option to remove their teeth and replace them with a more convenient alternative. Getting those rotten, infected, or otherwise unhealthy teeth out of the mouth is a far better option for overall oral health.

Enjoy the foods you love

With all-on-4 implants, you can continue to enjoy the foods you love.Of course, you’ll want to use caution. We don’t recommend consuming copious amounts of peanut brittle, popcorn, or chomping ice cubes. However, you can enjoy foods like apples, carrots, and other healthy foods that will support both your oral and overall health for a happier life.

Faster implant procedure

You may be used to the idea of dental implants requiring months to complete. After the initial surgery to implant the posts, you have to wait a few months for them to heal and fuse with the jawbone. While you may be given a temporary prosthetic to fill the space, you won’t get your final crown for months.

Dealing with a temporary placeholder can be annoying and the alternative is to have a hole in your smile for a few months. 

Neither is ideal.

However, the all-on-4 implants are inserted at a 45-degree angle, offering enough support and structure without having to wait for the implants to heal. Some people can be fitted with their new teeth during the same office visit or within a few days. 

What are the potential problems with all-on-4 dental implants?

Of course, no surgical procedure is without its risks. Here are the potential all-on-4 dental implants problems you may run into.

Risk of infection

If you use a reputable oral surgeon for the procedure, the risk of infection is very low. Some dentists may place you on an antibiotic after the procedure to help prevent infection, but it is not always necessary.

The main thing is to stay on top of your oral hygiene. Keeping your mouth clean by brushing your teeth and removing bacteria with mouthwash will minimize the risk of infection significantly. 

If signs of infection are present, notify your dentist immediately. Swift action can keep you from losing the implant altogether. How do you know if it is infected? Watch for pus, puffy gums, bleeding, or pain around the implant. The implant may become loose or wobbly. You may also develop a fever or notice a bad taste in your mouth. 

Implant failure

Approximately 5% of patients will find that the implants don’t fuse to the bone. This is called implant failure and can happen to anyone. Often it is unclear why the implant failed in the first place.

The good news, however, is that most people can try again and experience a successful fusion the second time around. 

You can lower the risk of failure by following your dentist’s post-surgery care instructions carefully. This includes eating soft foods, not smoking which is inherently bad for your teeth, and taking proper hygienic care of your teeth.  

How much do all-on-4 dental implants cost?

When it comes to replacing all your teeth, all-on-4 dental implants cost less than doing multiple individual implants. The work is less intensive, requires fewer dentist appointments, and involves less downtime. All these factors contribute to it being a less expensive procedure overall. 

However, that doesn’t mean that the procedure is cheap. All-on-4 dental implants cost between $15,000 and $28,000 dollars — averaging out to about $21,000. Keep in mind that additional costs such as extractions or the initial consultation are not included in this figure. 

Don’t hesitate to shop around. Dentists in smaller towns may offer the same quality procedure at a lower cost. Try researching “all-on-4 dental implants cost near me” in Google in various towns to see what you find.

How long do all-on-4 dental implants last?

All-on-4 dental implants aren’t removable, but how long do they last? Are you going to be back in the dentist’s chair eventually having your implants yanked out and replaced?

In all likelihood, no. 

All-on-4 dental implants are a relatively new procedure so it isn’t known 100% how long they can last. However, most dental professionals agree that it is reasonable to expect them to last 20-25 years. Many say they could potentially last for the patient’s lifetime, depending on the age of the patient. 

The prosthesis that is mounted on the implants is not expected to last quite as long. With proper care, you can expect your prosthesis to last around 10-15 years. The good news is that a new prosthesis can be fashioned and mounted on your existing implants without having to do surgery again.

To help your implants and prosthesis last as long as possible, follow good oral hygiene rules. Brush and floss daily, visit the dentist for cleanings twice a year, limit eating hard or sticky candy and food, wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports, and don’t use your teeth as a tool.   

Looking for a dentist?

Are you searching for a dentist near you? We’re happy to help! Our whole goal is to help you level up your oral wellness. Get started today because the smile you’re longing for is waiting for you!

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Read on learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for impacted teeth.

What is an impacted tooth?

We already hinted at it, but impacted teeth are teeth that have been inhibited from breaking through the gum line. It is also possible to have a partially impacted tooth. This happens when a tooth that has broken through the soft tissue a little bit is now stuck and can’t get all the way through. 

Where do these impacted teeth come from? Surprisingly, you are born with all your teeth. The primary, or baby, teeth emerge first. These teeth become loose and come out, to be replaced by your permanent teeth which begin to grow in. Children develop one set of molars around age 6, the second molars around age 12, and the third molars which are often referred to as “wisdom teeth” come later.

The most common teeth to become impacted are the wisdom teeth. This last set of molars comes in when people are around 17 to 21 years of age. They are called wisdom teeth because you are supposedly “wiser” by the time they come in. 

Though these last teeth are nearly always present, for some people they never erupt and emerge through the gum tissue. By the time they are ready to come in, the jawbone has stopped growing and many times there is not enough space for them. 

However, even if they don’t erupt, impacted wisdom teeth can negatively affect the rest of your teeth. They may push on adjacent teeth, knocking them out of position, and therefore they usually need to be removed.

Symptoms of impacted teeth

How do you know if you have an impacted tooth? Sometimes, there is no way to know that you have an unerupted tooth unless your dentist takes an x-ray and discovers it there, waiting below the surface. 

Other times you may experience some uncomfortable or downright painful symptoms. This may includ:

• Inflamed, sore, or swollen gums 
• Bleeding gums
• A unpleasant taste in your mouth
• Bad breath
• Trouble opening your mouth
• Pain when chewing or opening your mouth
• Jaw ache or jaw pain

Symptoms can come and go so don’t assume that because they went away that no treatment is required. Furthermore, all of these symptoms can indicate the presence of other oral health problems such as gum disease or tooth decay. 

Set up a dentist appointment as soon as possible to have these symptoms checked before the problem gets worse and to potentially identify any impacted teeth

What causes an impacted tooth?

So, how does a tooth become impacted in the gum tissue? There can be a few causes of impaction. 

The most common reason is that your mouth simply doesn’t have enough space for these teeth. This can happen because of orthodontic treatment or as a result of your genetics.

Experts aren’t entirely sure why humans have this seemingly extraneous set of teeth that grow in so much later than the other molars. Some anthropologists think that humans simply don’t need them anymore with the benefits of modern dental care. Now that we cook most of our foods, the human diet isn’t as difficult to chew and it’s likely that we lose fewer teeth. 

Do impacted teeth need to be removed?

It is not always necessary to remove your impacted teeth. If the teeth are behaving themselves and aren’t causing any other issues with your oral health, it isn’t necessary to remove them. 

However, sometimes impaction can have a negative effect on the other teeth in your mouth. This is especially true if you’ve had a lot of orthodontic work done. 

Impacted teeth forcing their way into the back of your mouth can push the other teeth forward. This can crowd the remaining teeth and ruin the beautifully straight smile that your orthodontist was able to create. Your retainer may not be enough to stop this from happening.

If your dentist determines that your impacted teeth will have a detrimental effect on the others in your mouth, it’s usually best to remove them as quickly as possible. This is yet another reason why you should find a dentist and visit them regularly.

How are impacted teeth treated?

Dentists have a few tricks up their sleeve to deal with impacted teeth. Removal isn’t the only option.

Wait and see

If your impacted teeth are healthy and keeping to themselves, your dentist may recommend just waiting to see what happens. Your teeth may stay in the gum tissue permanently and never cause problems for your other teeth.

This is often the case when you aren’t even aware that you have impacted teeth because they aren’t causing any symptoms. You’ll usually find out about them when your dentist tells you because they see them on your routine dental x-rays. 

Eruption aids

We said that your wisdom teeth are the most common teeth that can become impacted. However, other teeth that you actually need can also be impacted. For example, if your canine tooth is impacted, your dentist will try to encourage it to erupt. This helps preserve your oral functions and aesthetic.

Usually another tooth blocking the way is what causes this type of impaction. Dentists can often use braces or brackets to pull the interfering tooth out of the way. If this doesn’t work, your dentist may have to remove a baby tooth, or even an adult tooth to make room. This extraction procedure is most effective if done when you are younger.

If all else fails, your dentist will have to remove the tooth and replace it with a bridge or dental implants.

Surgery

If your impacted teeth are compromising the health and structure of your mouth and other teeth, usually you’ll need oral surgery to remove them. This can be an effective procedure as well if you are experiencing painful symptoms as a result of the impaction. However, you might still feel nothing, but your dentist may determine that the impacted teeth will or are having a negative effect on your other teeth.

The extraction of impacted teeth is considered a routine and safe procedure. You’ll visit your oral surgeon and go home the same day. Some people are put under sedation for the procedure, but most are able to have the surgery with just a local anesthetic.  

The procedure only takes about 45 to 60 minutes to complete. Most people heal within 7 – 10 days and can go back to their normal activities within just a couple of days. 

Problems with partially impacted teeth

So far we’ve been focusing on issues with fully impacted teeth, but what about partially impacted teeth? When a tooth never erupts, it is protected from plaque and tartar buildup and the devastation that mouth bacteria can cause through tooth decay.

Partially impacted teeth have no such protection. Plus, they are harder to clean since so little of their surface is exposed and they are (presumably) so far back in your mouth.

This means that they are at risk of cavities, decay, infections, gingivitis in the surrounding gum tissue, and other issues. 

When to see a dentist for impacted teeth

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms we’ve mentioned in this article, don’t wait to visit the dentist. You may be suffering from an impaction or any other number of dental problems. The earlier these problems are treated, the easier it is to correct the issue. 

It’s also important to keep up with regular dental visits. You may not be aware that you have an impacted tooth that can cause problems for your other teeth until it is too late. Dentists can use dental x-rays and other preventative tools to stay ahead of these issues and help preserve your oral health.

Don’t have a dentist? We’ll help you find a dentist near you today and level up your oral health and wellness!

The post Impacted wisdom teeth: Causes, symptoms, and treatment appeared first on The Floss By Opencare.

Here, we’ll cover the most pressing things to know about teeth filing, including the benefits, costs, and the risks of recent TikTok trends.

The benefits—why is teeth-shaping so popular?  

There are a number of reasons you may want to change the shape of your teeth. Perhaps you have minor defects in teeth that you’d like to repair. Maybe you have an uneven bite, rough molar surfaces or issues related to the length of a tooth, its surface texture, or shape.

No matter the reason—whether medical or aesthetic—there are many benefits to teeth filing that make it a popular corrective choice.

Medical benefits of tooth contouring include:

• repair of minor defects or imbalances between teeth
• increased room for incoming teeth
• greater dental health—removal of minor tooth overlaps decreases risk of decay
• part of dental preparation for a crown (following a root canal)
• can assist in tooth preparation before the application of braces
• evens out your bite—preventing or relieving jaw pain

As for cosmetic benefits, they include:  

• an improved smile, with fewer imperfections
• a greater sense of confidence in your appearance
• a low-cost solution for minor dental repairs or uneven teeth

In short, teeth filing is popular for both medical and aesthetic reasons. If you’ve got that one tooth that bothers you—maybe it’s a little longer than the others or a bit crooked—you might be the perfect candidate for this low-cost makeover for your smile.

What are the risks of teeth filing?

Thankfully, when a dental professional changes the shape of your teeth through tooth filing, the risks are relatively low.

The primary concern is the risk of tooth damage through the loss of enamel. This hard, outer layer of the tooth protects the dentin layer inside, as well as the tooth nerve. Enamel protects against cavities and tooth decay as well. 

Unfortunately, this hard-working layer does not regenerate. Once you’ve lost your enamel, it cannot be replaced. If too much enamel is lost, you can suffer from:

• excess tooth sensitivity
• fragile teeth (which are more prone to tooth structure damage) 
• greater risk of decay

In other words, it is important that this delicate procedure is performed by a skilled professional andsomeone who understands the nature and fragility of your tooth enamel.

A dangerous trend – DIY tooth filing with a nail file

Dental and orthodontic professionals across the country are horrified by a new trend on social media in which people are filing their own teeth using nail files. As these inexperienced people use improper files to smooth out any bumps or imperfections, they are risking permanent damage to their oral health.

This TikTok trend has dentistry professionals crying foul.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, teeth filing has irreversible consequences if not done properly. Once you wear away the protective enamel on your teeth, it is gone for good.

Without your enamel, you’re at risk of tooth sensitivity or even losing the tooth itself. This is especially true if the tooth is fragile in the first place.  

Even popular TikTokers have expressed their regret over shaving down teeth in a public forum, asking their followers not to act as they have in becoming “DIY dentists.”   

If you are considering reshaping your teeth for any reason, be sure to consult a dental professional for their advice and skilled service.

Common questions about teeth filing

As you consider whether or not to have tooth reshaping done as part of an overall dental care plan, you likely have a number of questions. 

Here are a few answers to common questions about enameloplasty:

Why is it done before braces or clear aligners?

Shaving or shaping teeth is a common step taken before braces are applied or a clear aligner, such as Invisalign, is used for orthodontic purposes. By removing a small amount of enamel, your dentist or orthodontist will create space within your mouth. 

Even a small amount of room to move will allow your teeth to straighten and align more easily with either braces or a clear aligner.  

Does teeth filing hurt? 

The short answer is—no. There are no nerve endings in your enamel, nor will your dentist touch the dentin or root of your tooth through the procedure. In addition, there are few side effects associated with teeth filing and you are unlikely to need any form of anesthetic.

How much does teeth filing cost?

Thankfully, tooth shaping only requires your dentist’s time, skill, and specialized tools. As a result, it is far more cost effective than other procedures or forms of cosmetic dentistry, which may involve custom implants or extensive work.

Tooth reshaping costs will vary from one dental professional to another and will depend on the amount of work required. Overall, you can expect to pay anywhere between $50 to $300 per tooth.  

Does insurance cover teeth filing?

Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of teeth filing unless the required work is the result of an accident or injury. Speak to your insurance provider to ask about their policies and find out if you qualify for coverage.

How much enamel is removed?

Using advanced technology, your dentist can predict how much enamel should be removed with a high level of precision. While the exact amount will depend on your goals and the nature of your teeth, your dentist will most likely remove somewhere between 0.2 and 0.5mm on each tooth. 

If you are concerned about the depth or quantity of enamel that will be removed, speak to your dental professional ahead of time—they can explain in detail and make adjustments, where necessary.  

Which COVID-19 precautions are needed?

Thankfully, the dental industry is well prepared for the pandemic with health procedures that have evolved over time. With standard safety measures in place, you can feel safe having any dental procedure done, from teeth whitening to tartar removal, tooth reshaping or a standard set of x-rays.   

If it makes you more comfortable to know the specific measures your dentist will take to protect your health during the pandemic, speak to them ahead of time so you know what to expect.

Let an expert handle the job

When you’ve researched the benefits and risks of this dental procedure, seen the before and after photos, and considered the filed teeth cost, it’s time to call in the experts. 

A qualified dental professional will assess the structure and health of your teeth, discuss viable options, and safely reshape your areas of concern. Given the risk of permanent damage, it is important to work with a trusted professional for this procedure. 

Across the country, dentists are trained to skilfully do this work. 

Find a dentist in your area to schedule an initial consultation. You will have the chance to ask questions, share your concerns, and find out if this procedure is right for you.

Whether you are interested in tooth contouring for medical or cosmetic reasons, it is important to seek the assistance of a professional. A simple dentist appointment will give you the confidence of knowing what can be done and how the end results can be achieved safely.   

It is critical to avoid the pitfall of trying to reshape your front teeth or lower teeth at home—without meaning any harm, you could easily do lasting damage. In essence, your short-term cosmetic goals could force you into a situation in which you need even more significant dental work down the road. 

The post Teeth filing: benefits, costs, and dangers behind at-home filing appeared first on The Floss By Opencare.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a type of dental prosthetic that is very similar to natural teeth. When a patient gets them installed, the dentist drills a small hole into the jaw bone and inserts a titanium post. The patient is sent home for a few months to allow the implant to heal and fuse with the jaw bone. 

A crown, made to match the surrounding teeth, is then mounted on top of the post. Once the procedure is complete the patient is able to eat, talk, kiss, laugh, and otherwise use their mouth as they normally would. With proper dental hygiene like flossing and brushing twice a day, dental implants can be expected to last for decades, and most likely the lifetime of the patient.

Is it painful to get dental implants?

The idea of someone drilling into your jaw bone probably doesn’t incite happy thoughts and you may be wondering how painful getting dental implants will be.

We won’t lie to you, dental implants are not a painless procedure. However, they also probably aren’t as bad as you are imagining. Getting a dental implant, pain-wise, is similar to having a tooth extracted. If you’re considering an implant, it’s likely you’ve already experienced a tooth extraction. You lived, right? 

However, getting an implant isn’t the only thing to consider. Sometimes, depending on the state of your mouth, you will need certain preliminary procedures before you can get the implant.

These can come with varying degrees of pain. 

Preliminary procedures for dental implants

There are three main preliminary procedures you may need before you can get your implant. These are:

• Bone grafts
• Sinus lifts 
• Tooth extractions

The implant needs sufficient bone to support the tooth. If you’ve already experienced bone loss then you may need a bone graft to supplement the bone you have left. A bone graft isn’t nearly as scary as it sounds and is usually done under a local anesthetic. Your dentist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and a painkiller to manage the pain.

Sinus lifts are a little more intense. Some people can undergo them under local anesthetic and others need to be put to sleep. These are generally only needed for implants far back in your mouth. 

Finally, tooth extraction is a very common preparatory step. The dentist may need to pull the damaged tooth that will be being replaced or, in the case of a full arch, pulling any healthy teeth that remain in the way. Sometimes this can be done at the same time as the placement surgery, other times you will need to book another dentist appointment.

Placement surgery

The placement of the implant generally isn’t too big of a deal. It sounds like it would be, what with the whole idea of drilling into your jawbone. However, experienced dental surgeons will carefully take into account nerve placement and do their best to avoid them.

The surgery should only last about 30-40 minutes for a single tooth. Once the anesthesia begins to wear off, you’ll feel some discomfort and perhaps pain. This can usually be managed with a mild painkiller. 

You’ll be sent home at this point to allow the implant to fuse with the jawbone.

Loading the restoration

Once everything has healed it’s time to load the restoration. That’s a fancy way of saying your dentist will stick a permanent crown on top of the implant. 

To do this, the dentist will open your gums slightly to attach an abutment to the top of the implant. The crown is placed on top of this and you’re all set!

This step is quick and relatively painless. Most people do not require pain meds. 

How long does pain last after getting dental implants?

For most people, the most painful portion of getting dental implants is the implant placement surgery. Once the anesthesia wears off, it’s common to experience throbbing pain at the site. The gums will also probably be quite irritated.

Expect the pain to last about three days after the surgery, though it will diminish each day. Soon, you should only experience mild pain when biting or chewing too hard (which you should avoid doing right after the surgery anyway).

Continuing to experience dental implant pain after two weeks may be an indication of infection. It’s also possible the implant failed. Regardless, if you are still feeling pain at this point, talk to your dentist at once. If there doesn’t seem to be a problem, they’ll advise that you wait a few weeks. Some people do experience mild pain for a few weeks after the surgery.

What if the problem persists? What if you’re still feeling dental implant pain after three months? 

There are a few problems that can cause this. First, the implants may have been placed too close to a nerve and are irritating it. You may also notice inflamed gums, although this can also happen if your gums are rejecting the implant. 

Another cause of persistent pain is that your gums are not healing properly. This may often be tied to an underlying medical condition such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. 

Finally, the implant may have failed. This happens in a small number of implant patients, often without an obvious reason. Don’t worry, it doesn’t mean your dentist did a bad job or that you are not a good candidate for dental implants. Most people can try a second time and enjoy a successful implant.  

Why do my dental implants hurt?

Don’t worry. It’s normal to feel pain for the first few days after receiving a dental implant. Most people can manage the pain with OTC pain medications or your dentist may prescribe you something a bit stronger if you desire.  

If the pain becomes intense or lasts for longer than two weeks, get in touch with your dentist. They can investigate to ensure nothing is out of place and that there are no problems developing.

Is it normal to have throbbing pain after a tooth implant?

Throbbing pain directly after the surgery is completely normal. Once the anesthetic begins to wear off, you’ll probably notice it. If you decide to take an over-the-counter medication to manage the pain, be sure to choose a non-NSAID, like acetaminophen (Tylenol). The pain should subside within a few days without incident.

On occasion, throbbing pain may return suddenly a few weeks after the procedure. Contact your dentist immediately if that happens. 

Why does the tooth next to my implant hurt?

Some patients may experience pain in the tooth next to the implant or notice that it is loose. This could indicate a few different things, none of which are good. 

For example, the periodontal disease that caused you to lose the tooth you’re replacing may have begun to affect nearby teeth. It is possible for teeth to decay considerably and you won’t feel a thing. This decay, however, weakens the tooth and leaves it vulnerable. 

When the implant is placed, the pressure and swelling can further aggravate the problem, loosening the tooth and potentially causing pain. 

It’s also possible (though not probable if you hired a reputable dentist) that the implants were placed incorrectly. This happens most often because the dentist did not take enough diagnostic studies to fully understand the best position for the implant. Find a dentist here to ensure you get a good one for the procedure.

Find a dentist near you

There are two things you can do to help ensure your dental implant procedure goes well and doesn’t cost very much. 

The first is to maintain proper dental hygiene. Brush and floss twice a day, taking care to clean the site of the implant thoroughly without being too harsh and causing more damage.  

The second is to follow your dentist’s instructions to a T. Also, don’t be afraid to call them if something seems out of place. The sooner your dentist can address the problem, the smaller the problem will be.  

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