Generally speaking, if a person is well enough to undergo the treatment necessary for fixed bridgework or routine tooth extractions, the same person can undergo dental implant procedures. Also, patients may have general health conditions that would contraindicate implant procedures, although this is unusual. The best form of implant for you is determined after a thorough examination and discussion with your dentist and periodontist or oral surgeon. The amount and location of available bone is usually the major determinant as to which implant system is to be used, or whether you are a good implant candidate.
When people hear the word “rejection” in connection with implants, they are usually describing conditions that can occur where there has been surgery that involves transplanting a vital organ such as a heart. However, dental implants fall into an entirely different category due to the fact that tissue matching, blood typing, etc., is not a factor as in the other procedures mentioned. The body completely accepts placement of dental implant material (like orthopedic materials which are similar) within bone; therefore, today’s dental implants meet with great success. Obviously, there are some dental implants that have not been successful. However, success has more to do with proper patient selection, proficiency of the practitioner, and the patient’s commitment to proper hygiene and preventive maintenance. Another factor in success involves regular follow-up care, just like other dental treatment. Both soft tissue health and the way the replacement teeth function and bite together must be evaluated periodically to ensure long term success of the dental implant.
How long do teeth last? They should last a lifetime. However, we all can sight examples where teeth have not served for a person’s lifetime. We know that dental problems mostly stem from improper home care or lack of treatment when needed. The same holds true for implants. With proper care and routine dental check-ups they should last a lifetime. No one can give guarantees because the health of a person is dependent upon many factors which are out of the control of one’s dentist, e.g., proper nutritional needs being met, proper hygiene, genetics, disease processes which might occur. So, the answer to this question really is that no one knows how long each individual implant will last… one’s success can be influenced by the way you live and the quality of practitioner that you have chosen to do your implants… these things can tip the scales in your favor.
Presume that dental implants are natural teeth and treat them that way. Return for regular check-ups. Brush and floss. Realize also, that caring for the gums is the best way to care for one’s teeth. More teeth are lost as a result of gum disease than any other single cause.
Implant placement usually does not result in much post-operative discomfort -usually the patient takes Tylenol or Advil for about 2-5 days. If more extensive treatment is needed, for example bone grafts or many implants, then the post-operative course may require more time and medication. Anesthesia during the surgery should make the placement procedure pain-free. We are conservative with anesthetic agents and our philosophy is to utilize the least amount of medication for the patient to comfortably tolerate the procedures. Depending on the complexity and number of implants being placed, the procedure can take between 30 minutes to 3-4 hours.
The first phase of treatment, after a detailed evaluation and treatment plan, usually is the actual placement of the implants. This procedure is generally done in the doctor’s office during one visit. Most implants will remain covered, underneath the gums, for 3 to 6 months. During this time, osseointegration –the biological bonding of the jawbone to the implant–occurs. Through this healing period, you will probably wear your modified denture or a temporary denture or bridge and maintain normal activities without restriction. You will need to follow a modified, soft diet for the first couple of weeks. There are occasions, one stage implant placements or when extensive bone grafting is to be performed, when patients may be asked not to wear their removable dentures for a period of time. When this is necessary we’ll do all we can to help our patient through this transition.
The second phase of the procedure is usually 3-6 months after implant placement. At this time, the top of the implants will be uncovered from under the gums and a small metal post or extension will be attached to the implant(s). Your periodontist or restorative dentist will make any necessary modifications to your temporary teeth to allow you to continue wearing them after post attachment.
In the third phase, which usually starts 2-6 weeks after the second phase, your new replacement teeth are created and fitted. This phase involves a series of appointments to make impressions of your mouth and to “try-in” your replacement teeth at key steps in their fabrication. The try-in sessions are necessary to ensure that the size, shape, color and fit of your new teeth will completely blend with and match your individual facial characteristics and remaining natural teeth (if any). The third phase is usually completed within 4 to 8 weeks. Total treatment time for most implant cases will usually be 5-8 months. It could be longer if bone or gum procedures are needed.
Absolutely not! Dental implants have a long history of use and success. Implants are the most thoroughly researched procedure in the history of dentistry and, while no procedure is 100% successful, the current technology has resulted in very high success rates in the hands of well-trained and experienced clinicians. Dental implants are carefully regulated by the FDA and a number of implant systems have been approved by the American Dental Association.
Yes and no –sorry to be so vague, but some carriers pay for them, some don’t, and some pay a portion of the costs. Most dental plans do not provide for the surgical placement of implants. However, many do provide some restorative benefits. Surprisingly, the best coverage often times can be through your medical insurance if you are missing all or most of your teeth. In this case the implant procedure may be considered jaw reconstruction with restoration of normal chewing function and sometimes medical insurance will cover all or part of the treatment. In many instances we have been able to help get significant coverage for patients, but unfortunately it is not very predictable. Our staff will work hard to see that you get the best possible benefit from your insurance.
Whether or not the dental implant can be placed immediately after extraction depends on the amount of available bone in the area and presence or absence of active infection. Placing the implant at the same visit helps preserve both width and height of bone and may prevent the need for placing bone grafts when bone naturally shrinks back after teeth are extracted. During the first year after teeth have been removed, as much as 40% of jawbone width can be lost. Sometimes, infection from a tooth or periodontal disease has destroyed the bone to such an extent that it becomes necessary to do a bone grafting procedure prior to implant placement. If it is possible to place the implant at the same visit as the teeth are extracted, this can save at least three months in healing time compared to waiting for an extraction site to heal before the implants can be placed.
Many restorations are designed with a metal lining covered with porcelain (porcelain fused to metal or PFM). They appear “flat” because the metal does not let light pass through like a natural tooth does. There is often a dark line next to the gum line that is undesirable (often the metal irritates the adjacent gum tissue in the form of an allergic reaction). Always inquire! Dentists will say that it is porcelain. And it is…on the outside. When properly seated, they are as strong as or stronger than their metal predecessors. And the appearance is strikingly similar to a natural tooth, allowing light to pass through (referred to as translucency).
In many cases, the pressure of dentures or partials on the tissues causes gums to get “flabby” and bone to shrink over time. When this occurs, the dentures usually become loose and awkward even when adhesives are applied, much like the way clothes become baggy when one loses weight, and this causes more bone loss and gum problems. With dental implants, bone loss as well as gum erosion are slowed. Unlike dentures, which put pressure and stress on top of the gums and jaw bone, endosseous (“in-the-bone”) implants are actually surrounded by bone and the chewing forces transfer pressures into the bone, much like teeth do. This actually can strengthen the bone and increase bone density, reducing the bone shrinkage seen regularly from dentures.
Legally yes, but like any medical or dental procedure, not all practitioners have equal experience, training or comfort with implant treatment. Also, for every procedure, there is a “learning curve” and you want practitioners with significant experience to help you with implant treatment so you are likely to get the best possible long term result.
Cosmetic dentistry is dental treatment that improves the beauty and health of one’s smile.. Nearly every dental procedure has 2 elements: Aesthetics and function. A quality cosmetic dentist takes both of these elements into consideration; so that one may rest assured they will not only look great, but enjoy hassle free long-term results.
Cosmetic dentistry covers a multitude of procedures from smile teeth whitening to repairing, straightening, replacing or enhancing the appearance of one’s teeth and smile. Most common is the use of Cosmetic Veneers or Laminates. These thin, but durable restorations are much more conservative to the natural tooth than traditional crowns, and have become a very popular way to enhance a smile. In certain procedures dental bonding can be a way to shape teeth as well.
Cosmetic dentistry provides more than just a beautiful smile and a healthy mouth. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), cosmetic dentistry has also been shown to improve a person’s overall health and emotional well-being. An improved smile can boost a person’s self-image, making them more confident in their daily lives.
Cosmetic dental techniques have advanced dramatically over the last decade. The qualities of materials such as porcelain and composite resins have improved, giving a more lifelike appearance. And, where gum-tissue surgery and contouring was once performed with scalpels, lasers now provide fast, non-surgical results.
If you are happy with the shape and color of your teeth, then orthodontic teeth straightening may be a good option for you. If you want to whiten and enhance the shape of your teeth as well as straighten them, then cosmetic dentistry will give you the results you are looking for while saving you time and money. Clear teeth aligners provide a great alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign is the latest generation of “invisible” teeth aligners. Though not always necessary, some people will choose to undergo some teeth straightening prior to be fitted with cosmetic veneers.
Modern metal-free dentistry has evolved to a point where we can be much more conservative with tooth preparation. A dental veneer is essentially a conservative crown. Rather than encompassing the entire tooth, a cosmetic veneer, essentially covers the visible part of a tooth preserving a large amount of the natural tooth structure. Veneers can straighten, lengthen and whiten teeth to provide the desired smile and bite. Each veneered tooth must be shaped. This means that an outer layer of the natural tooth structure is removed to allow space for veneer placement.
When “seated” correctly, veneers are strong and can last for many years, even a lifetime with good oral care.
Porcelain veneers are non-porous and will not stain or discolor.
Yes. Aesthetic dentistry is the ultimate blend of art and science. If quality and service are important to you, look for experience, proven results, and a focused approach to your unique needs and desires. There are many different materials used in veneers and crowns. There are also a variety of commercial brand name veneers, including Lumineers™, DuraThins™, and DaVinci Veneers™, to name a few. Incredible Smiles creates all restorations with the help of one ceramist dedicated exclusively to Dr. Lori Kemmet and her team
Bonding is done by placing tooth-like material onto the tooth to build it up and/or to alter its shape. Over time the bonded portion of a tooth will change color as compared to the natural, un-bonded portion of the tooth. The advantage of bonding is that it is an ultra-conservative way to restore a tooth and is completed in one visit. The disadvantage is that it will discolor over time and is more prone to breakage than a veneer
Cosmetic dentistry covers a multitude of procedures from smile teeth whitening to repairing, straightening, replacing or enhancing the appearance of one’s teeth and smile. Most common is the use of Cosmetic Veneers or Laminates. These thin, but durable restorations are much more conservative to the natural tooth than traditional crowns, and have become a very popular way to enhance a smile. In certain procedures dental bonding can be a way to shape teeth as well.
Cosmetic dental work is probably not as expensive as you think. The cost of cosmetic dentistry depends on how much you want or need. Like any cosmetic process, costs will vary with the amount of product or services you desire. A skilled cosmetic dentist can explain various fees and the best procedure for you. Also, some cosmetic dental options are covered by insurance if “need” can be established.
The time varies from patient to patient. Because the braces are invisible, you don’t need to delay treatment until after an important event. Life can continue as normal. Each treatment is based on a comprehensive and individually personalised treatment plan and can take anywhere between 6 to 24 months.
Yes. We offer our patients the use of Acceledent, a hand-held vibrating device used on a daily basis for twenty minutes. Acceledent is held against your teeth and the oscillations help promote tooth movement. Clinical research has shown that it may increase tooth movement by 38-50%, thereby significantly reducing the treatment time.
A course of treatment in six months is only appropriate for mild problems. The Six Month Smile is a marketing concept designed to attract patients who only want their front teeth moved. But this is not always in the best interests of the patient. Selective tooth movement may cause other problems in the future. So, six months is not something we can guarantee. What we can guarantee is that we will provide you with the best treatment in the optimum time-frame.
Just like normal braces, lingual braces may be uncomfortable for around 7 days. During this time you may :
Invisalign or one of the other clear aligner systems is a good option if you only need some simple tooth movement. Some people want to see a dramatic improvement in both their smile and their bite and in these complex cases, Invisalign is not as effective.
Yes – in fact, you will need to spend more time keeping your teeth clean than normally. It is essential to maintain a good standard of oral hygiene. We believe this is so important that for patients who do not have a hygienist in their practice or who want the convenience of coming here, we have two hygienists available. Sarah and Katharine are skilled at treating patients with orthodontic appliances and will be happy to see you.
You will find that some foods are more difficult to eat and we recommend that you avoid them. Popcorn, nuts, chewing gums, crusty bread are examples of foods which might damage your braces. In the early days of treatment, you will find you may not want to eat anything too crunchy and soups and smoothies are likely to seem very appealing. Lettuce, spinach and anything stringy can get caught in the braces although some people don’t have a problem. If you opt for Invisalign, you have to take out your aligners to eat so you don’t need to worry about diet.
No orthodontist can guarantee the stability of orthodontic treatment without a retainer. We want your beautiful smile to last forever. So, at the end of treatment, you will be provided with retainers to protect your investment in your teeth.
A smile designing is the process of improving the appearance of the smile through one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures.
A beautiful smile can have numerous effects on an individual’s self-confidence, self-esteem and personal relationships.
While a smile is an extremely important attribute, a beautiful smile will make one seem more attractive.
A great smile might make one seem more intelligent, happy, and successful.
A smile designing takes into consideration your facial appearance, skin tone, hair color, teeth (color, width, length, shape and tooth display), gum tissue and lips to develop an ideal smile.
Smile makeovers are performed for many reasons and customized according to one’s unique consideration.
Immediate smile makeover procedures: These procedures are done when extensive treatment is not needed and can be done in a single visit. The most common procedures that can be done are for changing the color of stained teeth or minor repair of chips, cracks or spacing between teeth.
Composite Bonding: Chipped, broken, or discolored teeth may be repaired or have their appearance corrected using a procedure called composite bonding.
Teeth Whitening: Teeth are often stained from smoking, food, drink (coffee, tea or red wine) or poor oral hygiene. Bleaching the teeth can enhance the appearance of your smile.
Teeth and Gum Contouring: Can be done to change the appearance of a tooth by reducing the height, changing the shape of the tooth by minimal grinding without using any restorative materials.
Comprehensive Smile Makeovers: This requires a more elaborate treatment plan. Comprehensive smile makeovers usually require a combination of one or more cosmetic dental procedures. It is usually done in stages.
Dental Veneers: Composite or porcelain laminates that are adhesively bonded to the surface of a tooth to correct and repair chips and cracks will improve a worn appearance or severe tooth discoloration. Veneers may also be recommended if you have gaps in your teeth or if you have not had success with teeth whitening.
All-ceramic crowns: All ceramic crowns play an important role in cosmetic smile makeovers. They are an ideal option to correct crooked teeth in patients who are not willing for orthodontic treatment. The main advantage treatment is that the result is instant as compared to orthodontics which requires a treatment period of at least a year.
Orthodontic treatment: Although orthodontic treatment is generally best carried out in children, adults can have orthodontic treatment too. The boom in cosmetic dentistry is prompting more adults to consider wearing braces to straighten their teeth and more and more are doing.
A smile analysis for designing takes into consideration your facial appearance, skin tone, hair color, teeth (color, width, length, shape and tooth display), gum tissue and lips to develop an ideal smile.
Smile makeovers are performed for many reasons and customized according to one’s unique consideration.
The term “PROTRUDED Teeth” describes teeth that are too far forward. The Front teeth and the upper jaw bone have moved forward and as a result the spaces between the teeth get larger and larger. The lip is also pushed up because of the teeth. The teeth actually push the lip up as they tip forward. The bite correction process is slow and the patient seldom notices the changes until they finally see a photo of themselves and decide to fix the protruding teeth now. Buck teeth can be a result of tongue thrusting and bone loss around the teeth. When a patient looses bone, the teeth can move more easily and generally the tongue will push the teeth forward.
1.Spaces Between Teeth
The patient may never have had spaces and then spaces between her teeth began to appear. The gaps or spaces between the teeth were small and there are too many other things going on so many patients do not take action. Some patients have small spaces and as they get larger, the patient begins to see the problem but doesn’t realize how much their upper lip is moving and how their speech is not as clear any more.
Spaces between the teeth are referred to as a diastema. The spaces actually begin to change the way a patient talks. The “S” sounds are not as crisp and the patient begins to use their tongue to try to speak more clearly. The more they use their tongue, the bigger the spaces become.
Buck teeth make the smile look gummy. Too much of her gums are showing and her lips are also raises up too much because her upper jawbone is too prominent. The lips begin to move differently when the patient has buckteeth. Many of these patients cannot get their lips over their teeth. She now has a much more relaxed upper lip and a more natural appearance.
A range of orthodontic devices may be used to move or stabilise teeth. These include:
Braces – tiny brackets are attached to the front of each tooth, & a wire is tied to them. The constant gentle pressure of the wire slowly repositions the teeth.
Elastics – these small rubber bands are stretched between upper and lower braces for additional force to move teeth.
Plate – a plastic device that sits in the mouth and uses wires and springs to push teeth into a particular position, or to hold them in place. Unlike braces, a plate can be taken out of the mouth.
This case type is where a smiling patient shows much more of the gums than would normally be seen. While a normal smile would only show all of the white tooth and only a small amount of gum tissue, the High Lip Line case shows the gum tissues sometimes as high as the tip of the root of the tooth. Patients can’t prevent the lip from going so high since that is their natural smile.
Three traditional methods for treating a gummy smile:
1. Orthodontics: Intrudes over erupted teeth and levels them to correct position so that it eliminates gingival display.
2. Periodontal surgery: Crown lengthening to move gingival levels apically, typically performed on short teeth.
3. Orthognathic surgery: Moves the maxilla in an apical direction impacting the maxilla.
4. For instances when these traditional methods of treatment won’t work, such as a patient has a hypermobile lip, there are a couple of non-traditional methods.
Botox: Studies suggest Botox, when injected into the muscles of the upper lip can to be an effective method; however, the improvement is temporary and must be repeated every 3-6 months.
Your teeth can become discolored by stains on the surface or by changes in the tooth material. There are three main types of tooth discoloration:
Extrinsic discoloration — This occurs when the outer layer of the tooth (the enamel) is stained. Coffee, wine, cola or other drinks or foods can stain teeth. Smoking also causes extrinsic stains.
Intrinsic discoloration — This is when the inner structure of the tooth (the dentin) darkens or gets a yellow tint. You can get this type of discoloration if:
You had too much exposure to fluoride during early childhood.
Your mother used tetracycline antibiotics during the second half of pregnancy.
You used tetracycline antibiotics when you were 8 years old or younger.
You had trauma that affected a tooth when you were a young child. A fall, for example, may damage the developing permanent tooth.
You had trauma in a permanent tooth, and internal bleeding discolored the tooth.
You were born with a rare condition called dentinogenesis imperfecta. This causes gray, amber or purple discolorations.
Age-related discoloration — This is a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Dentin naturally yellows over time. The enamel that covers the teeth gets thinner with age, which allows the dentin to show through. Foods and smoking also can stain teeth as people get older. Finally, chips or other injuries can discolor a tooth, especially when the pulp has been damaged.
Many extrinsic stains caused by food and drink can be removed by regular professional cleanings and home care. Good home care includes brushing, flossing and rinsing after meals.
ZOOM BLEACHING : The Zoom Teeth Whitening System, sometimes called Zoom laser teeth whitening, is a powerful in-office whitening system . The process uses a 32% Hydrogen Peroxide light activated gel to achieve rapid and powerful whitening results with just a single procedure.
Bleaching will not lighten some stains, such as tetracycline stains. In this case, your dentist may recommend covering the discolored areas. This also may be useful when the tooth is chipped or badly damaged.
A tooth can be covered with a color-matched composite bonding material. Another option is to get veneers. These are thin ceramic shells that cover the outer surfaces of the teeth.
Children’s teeth develop gaps as they grow because their jaw is getting bigger and their baby teeth remain the same size. Children may have temporary gaps as their baby teeth start to fall out. This is normal and should not cause any alarm.
Gaps in adult teeth are referred to as diastemas. Diastemas appear most often between the two upper front teeth, though they can occur between any two teeth. Diastemas are also normal and like gaps found in children, may result from a mismatch between jaw bone size and teeth size.
1. Dental bonding on the anterior or front teeth is an excellent method for repairing minor imperfections such as chips and stains. It can also be used to fill gaps between teeth, called diastemas.
2. When teeth are attractive and healthy, repositioning BY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT is the BEST treatment, as it involves no loss of enamel.
3. If the gap is caused by periodontal disease, then periodontal treatment by a dentist or gum specialist (periodontist) is necessary. When gum health is restored, in many cases braces can be used to move the teeth into place. A splint can be used to attach teeth to other teeth and prevent them from moving again. In some cases, a bridge will be required to close the spaces.
4. If a large labial frenum is causing the gap, the frenum can be reduced through surgery called a frenectomy. If a frenectomy is done in a younger child, the space may close on its own. If it is done in an older child or an adult, the space may need to be closed with braces.
5. If you have a space because you are missing teeth, you might need more extensive dental repair. This might include dental implants, a bridge or a partial denture.
Daily activities such as eating, talking, laughing, and smiling constantly showcase your teeth. Your smile communicates a lot about you to others, and a clean white smile can increase your confidence, catch attention, and improve the impression you make on the people around you.
The media is flooded with over-the-counter teeth bleaching remedies. Unfortunately, many of these systems are ineffective and can actually damage your teeth if applied incorrectly. Professional tooth whitening from a qualified general or cosmetic dentist is always more safe, effective, and long lasting
TEETH WHITENING CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED BY ZOOM BLEACHING.
As a popular tooth whitening technique , Zoom Whitening restores stained tooth enamel and dentin back to a beautiful white shade. Many dentists and patients prefer Zoom Whitening because it can brighten your teeth up to 8 shades in under an hour. After carefully covering your mouth and lips so only your teeth are exposed, the cosmetic dentist will apply a tooth whitening gel to your teeth. A bright Zoom! light then activates the gel in three 15-minute segments. The light breaks down the hydrogen peroxide in the gel, allowing oxygen to penetrate through the tooth surface and to bleach any stains or discoloration. Daily oral hygiene habits and occasional touch-ups with take-home teeth bleaching products will keep your smile looking bright and beautiful.
Gaps in adult teeth are referred to as diastemas. Diastemas appear most often between the two upper front teeth, though they can occur between any two teeth. Diastemas are also normal and like gaps found in children, may result from a mismatch between jaw bone size and teeth size.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in your mouth. This generally occurs between the ages of 17 and 25, a time of life that has been called the “Age of Wisdom.”
A tooth becomes impacted when there is a lack of space in the dental arch and its growth and eruption are prevented by overlying gum, bone or another tooth.
Impacted teeth can be painful and lead to infection. They may also crowd or damage adjacent teeth or roots. More serious problems may occur if the sac surrounding the impacted tooth becomes filled with fluid and enlarges to form a cyst. As the cyst grows it may hollow out the jaw and permanently damage adjacent teeth, the surrounding bone and nerves. Rarely, if a cyst is not treated, a tumor may develop from its walls and a more serious surgical procedure may be required to remove it.
Despite the considerable concern regarding impacted third molars, a recent study sponsored by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Foundation finds that third molars which have broken through the tissue and erupted into the mouth in a normal, upright position may be as prone to disease as those third molars that remain impacted.
Must the Tooth Come Out if it Hasn’t Caused Any Problems Yet??
Not all problems related to third molars are painful or visible. Damage can occur without your being aware of it.
As wisdom teeth grow, their roots become longer, the teeth become more difficult to remove and complications become more likely. In addition, impacted wisdom teeth are more likely to cause problems as patients age.
No one can predict when third molar complications will occur, but when they do, the circumstances can be much more painful and the teeth more difficult to treat.
No one can predict when third molar complications will occur, but when they do, the circumstances can be much more painful and the teeth more difficult to treat.
It isn’t wise to wait until your wisdom teeth start to bother you. In general, earlier removal of wisdom teeth results in a less complicated healing process. The AAOMS/OMSF study strongly recommends that wisdom teeth be removed by the time the patient is a young adult in order to prevent future problems and to ensure optimal healing. The researchers found that older patients may be at greater risk for disease, including periodontitis, in the tissues surrounding the third molars and adjacent teeth. Periodontal infections, such as those observed in this study, may affect your general health.
Following surgery, you may experience some swelling and mild discomfort, which are part of the normal healing process. Cold compresses may help decrease the swelling, and medication prescribed by your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon can help manage the discomfort. You may be instructed to modify your diet following surgery and later progress to more normal foods.
Corrective jaw, or orthognathic, surgery is performed by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons to correct a wide range of minor and major skeletal and dental irregularities, including the misalignment of jaws and teeth, which, in turn, can improve chewing, speaking and breathing. While the patient’s appearance may be dramatically enhanced as a result of their surgery, orthognathic surgery is performed to correct functional problems.
Following are some of the conditions that may indicate the need for corrective jaw surgery:
People who may benefit from corrective jaw surgery include those with an improper bite resulting from misaligned teeth and/or jaws. In some cases, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. Injuries and birth defects may also affect jaw alignment. While orthodontics can usually correct bite, or “occlusion,” problems when only the teeth are misaligned, corrective jaw surgery may be necessary to correct misalignment of the jaws.
Your dentist, orthodontist and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon will work together to determine whether you are a candidate for corrective jaw, or orthognathic, surgery. The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon determines which corrective jaw surgical procedure is appropriate and performs the actual surgery. It is important to understand that your treatment, which will probably include orthodontics before and after surgery, may take several years to complete. Your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and orthodontist understand that this is a long-term commitment for you and your family. They will try to realistically estimate the time required for your treatment.
Corrective jaw surgery may reposition all or part of the upper jaw, lower jaw and chin. When you are fully informed about your case and your treatment options, you and your dental team will determine the course of treatment that is best for you.
Before your surgery, orthodontic braces move the teeth into a new position. Because your teeth are being moved into a position that will fit together after surgery, you may at first think your bite is getting worse rather than better. When your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon repositions your jaws during surgery, however, your teeth should fit together properly.
As your pre-surgical orthodontic treatment nears completion, additional or updated records, including x-rays, pictures and models of your teeth, may be taken to help guide your surgery.
Depending on the procedure, corrective jaw surgery may be performed under general anesthesia in a hospital, an ambulatory surgical center or in the oral and maxillofacial surgery office. Surgery may take from one to several hours to complete.
Your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon will reposition the jawbones in accordance with your specific needs. In some cases, bone may be added, taken away or reshaped. Surgical plates, screws, wires and rubber bands may be used to hold your jaws in their new positions. Incisions are usually made inside the mouth to reduce visible scarring; however, some cases do require small incisions outside of the mouth. When this is necessary, care is taken to minimize their appearance.
After surgery, your surgeon will provide instructions for a modified diet, which may include solids and liquids, as well as a schedule for transitioning to a normal diet. You may also be asked to refrain from using tobacco products and avoid strenuous physical activity.
Pain following corrective jaw surgery is easily controlled with medication and patients are generally able to return to work or school from one to three weeks after surgery, depending on how they are feeling. While the initial healing phase is about six weeks, complete healing of the jaws takes between nine and 12 months
Corrective jaw surgery moves your teeth and jaws into positions that are more balanced, functional and healthy. Although the goal of this surgery is to improve your bite and function, some patients also experience enhancements to their appearance and speech. The results of corrective jaw surgery can have a dramatic and positive effect on many aspects of your life. So make the most of the new you!
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a small joint located in front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw meet. It permits the lower jaw (mandible) to move and function. TMJ disorders are not uncommon and have a variety of symptoms. Patients may complain of earaches, headaches and limited ability to open their mouth. They may also complain of clicking or grating sounds in the joint and feel pain when opening and closing their mouth. What must be determined, of course, is the cause.
Determining the cause of a TMJ problem is important, because it is the cause that guides the treatment.
Arthritis is one cause of TMJ symptoms. It can result from an injury or from grinding the teeth at night. Another common cause involves displacement or dislocation of the disk that is located between the jawbone and the socket. A displaced disk may produce clicking or popping sounds, limit jaw movement and cause pain when opening and closing the mouth.
The disk can also develop a hole or perforation, which can produce a grating sound with joint movement. There are also conditions such as trauma or rheumatoid arthritis that can cause the parts of the TMJ to fuse, preventing jaw movement altogether.
Your dentist, orthodontist and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon will work together to determine whether you are a candidate for corrective jaw, or orthognathic, surgery. The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon determines which corrective jaw surgical procedure is appropriate and performs the actual surgery. It is important to understand that your treatment, which will probably include orthodontics before and after surgery, may take several years to complete. Your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and orthodontist understand that this is a long-term commitment for you and your family.They will try to realistically estimate the time required for your treatment.
Corrective jaw surgery may reposition all or part of the upper jaw, lower jaw and chin. When you are fully informed about your case and your treatment options, you and your dental team will determine the course of treatment that is best for you.
When symptoms of TMJ trouble appear, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon should be consulted. A specialist in the areas of the mouth, teeth and jaws, the oral and maxillofacial surgeon is in a good position to correctly diagnose the problem.
Special imaging studies of the joints may be ordered and appropriate referral to other dental or medical specialists or a physical therapist may be made.
TMJ treatment may range from conservative dental and medical care to complex surgery. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include short-term non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain and muscle relaxation, bite plate or splint therapy, and even stress management counseling.
Generally, if non-surgical treatment is unsuccessful or if there is clear joint damage, surgery may be indicated. Surgery can involve either arthroscopy (the method identical to the orthopaedic procedures used to inspect and treat larger joints such as the knee) or repair of damaged tissue by a direct surgical approach.
Once TMJ disorders are correctly diagnosed, appropriate treatment can be provided.
ORAL CANCER
Oral Cancer
As the mouth is a region where changes can be easily seen, oral cancer can be detected in its early stages. Performing a self examination regularly will help in the early recognition and detection of oral cancer, and increase the chance for cure.
Factors That May Cause Cancer
Research has identified a number of factors that may contribute to the development of oral cancer.The most common are the use of tobacco and alcohol. Others include poor oral hygiene, irritation caused by ill-fitting dentures and rough surfaces on teeth, poor nutrition, some chronic infections and combinations of these factors.
Studies have shown that the death rate from oral cancer is about four times higher for cigarette smokers than for nonsmokers. It is also widely believed in the medical field that the heat generated by smoking pipes and cigars irritates the mouth and can lead to lip cancer.
Those at an especially high risk of developing oral cancer are over 40 years of age, heavy drinkers and smokers, or users of smokeless tobacco, including snuff.
Perform a Self-Exam Monthly
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons recommend that everyone perform an oral cancer self-exam each month. If you are at high risk for oral cancer — smoker, consumer of alcohol, user of smokeless tobacco, or snuff — you should see your general dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon for an annual exam.
An oral examination is performed using a bright light and a mirror :
When performing an oral cancer self-examination, look for the following :
See your oral and maxillofacial surgeon if you have any of these signs. If the oral and maxillofacial surgeon agrees that something looks suspicious, a biopsy may be recommended. A biopsy involves the removal of a piece of the suspicious tissue, which is then sent to a pathology laboratory for a microscopic examination that will accurately diagnose the problem. The biopsy report not only helps establish a diagnosis, but also enables the doctor to develop a specific plan of treatment.
A Word About Oral Care
Keep in mind that your mouth is one of your body’s most important early warning systems. Don’t ignore any suspicious lumps or sores. Should you discover something, make an appointment for a prompt examination. Early treatment may well be the key to complete recovery.
The treatment done was very good. All specialists knew their work extremely well and undoubtedly I will come back here for any other dental issue.
SANJANA AHMED Fantastic infrastructure, audio visual explanation of procedure, international expertise, affordable cost, transparent billing, excellent doctors and staffs and most important, the doctors’ skills. Highly recommended.
DR.R.DAS Found out about “Aesthetica” online. Awarded Best Clinic for 4 to 5 years running -very impressive. All the doctors were very professional and understanding and of course, highly skilled and competent in their field of work. All the Staff were very friendly and helpful, sms and email confirmations were an added bonus. Overall, a great experience. End result a great smile makeover. Thank you Aesthetica.
DR. SIDDHARTHA BHATTACHARYA Pleasant environment. Friendly staff and doctors. Clinic is very hygienic. Professional and careful treatment. Thank you so much!
DR.NICKY KIRE Wow! You all are the best! So nice! So caring and so fast. You do beautiful work and i am very grateful. I would come all the way from the usa again –it would be worth it for the high skill dental approach and very state of the art machinery …bravo!
MARY COURTNEY CALLAHAN I have just had a major dental overhaul with the doctors at Aesthetica. This complex process involved multiple extractions, root canal therapy, fillings & implants with bridges. I have been impressed with my treatment by the whole professional team. The team of the very competent doctors kept me explicitly informed of the options and treatment. throughout the whole process I would like to sincerely thank all and after my recovery restored smile as testimony also I would confidently recommended their services and can be contacted for any further endorsement.
JOHN A. HENSTOCK Aesthetica is the best dental care specialty. Almost everything is available in house. Apart from the doctors the support staff is also very polite and caring. This is a rarity in the field of healthcare.
MR.ANIL KADEL The entire team is very cooperative and greets with a smile.
NIDHI KARNANI I was referred by someone to this clinic and now am happy to also refer this clinic to others.
GRANT HARRIS I never had any issues with delayed appointments and all...I find the staff members in the clinic very helpful too...the service rendered by them is excellent!! Do visit aesthetica, you surely won't regret...
JHILAN GANGULY Everyone had a smile. A word of reassurance to make one feel better, no matter who they were ...Was a friendly environment which is very important for a patient.
SHERUB.C.NIDUP The clinic is good and well staffed. The receptionist are very helpful and welcoming.
NAVNIT MAKHARIA Excellent, starting from the reception desk, with Dr. Kamlesh Kothari as well as the staff assisting Dr. Agarwal have been very polite and supportive. My thanks to all of them.
SURENDRA KR GARG Best clinic with all modern amenities and cleanliness is well maintained
AMIT KUMAR SINHA I'm very satisfied for my first visit, clean and organised clinic. good response time on emails as well, which is very nice!
HANNA AGARWAL My overall experience was great
MUNA ABDI ADEN Very professional service from the team of doctors. Very satisfied once again and would recommend Aesthetica to anybody.
JOHN HENSTOCK Great treatment and great result, highly professional and team. Excellent job!
IVANA TARLE I felt very comfortable and pleased with the attention of the doctor and assistants. Thankyou to the entire team of doctors at Aesthetica.
REBECCA FARLEY Very smooth careful and professional work without any pain. Thanks all the doctors involved. I'm highly satisfied with my treatment.
SCHMOURLO VALERIE All the doctors at Aesthetica are very knowledgeable. I never felt like they didn't know what they were doing. They listened to all of my concerns and met all of my expectations. The team was able to make my teeth look natural and give them added strength. I would and will recommend this clinic to everyone." Thank you once again for a wonderful experience. I think I'll be using your services more in future.
MR. DARPA-HA-DAS
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This experience went exceedingly well. The entire team was warm & friendly as well as quite essentially professional. My appearance & ability to chew & enjoy food again is 100% enhanced. Thanks to everyone in the clinic.
Frank Miller USA