The following are the most (FAQ) common questions we are asked by our patients. If you have any questions that are not answered on this page, feel free to contact our office to get your questions answered at (972) 414-8800.
Teeth whitening:
How long do teeth whitening results last?
Generally, you can anticipate teeth whitening to last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, while some studies report results lasting for several years. Staying away from smoking, coffee and other stain causing agents will help sustain the results even longer.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Dentists take safety measures to protect against discomfort for the duration of teeth whitening treatments. Ordinarily, a protective gel or rubber shield is used to protect against bleaching agents from harming gum tissue. The most prevalent bleaching agents that are used by dentists are authorized for use by the American Dental Association, making them certain safe and effective. After the whitening treatment, you may encounter minimal tooth sensitivity for a short time.
Will teeth whitening make my crowns, bridges and veneers whiter?
Tooth whitening only will produce results with natural teeth and won’t have an impact on your crowns, veneers, bridges or any other type of dental work. A very important factor to think about just in case you have bridges and crowns is that following the whitening procedure, there may possibly be a significant distinction between their color and the color of your teeth.
What causes white spots on my teeth?
There are different causes as to why spots might appear on the teeth. It is a good idea to consult with your dentist during a dental exam about it.
First, if the spots have existed since childhood, this could be due to some disturbance in the enamel formation during that time.
Another reason could be from plaque because plaque is debris and bacteria that form a hard scale on the surface of the teeth, usually near the gum line. When found, plaque can make a portion of the teeth look discolored, and this could be what you are seeing.
Finally, the beginning stages of tooth decay or cavities can in some cases look like white spots simply because as the bacteria produces acids that digest and thin-out the tooth enamel, the enamel may start to look white.
Root canals:
What are root canals?
A root canal is a treatment utilized to repair and save a tooth that may be terribly decayed or gets to be infected.
Root canal procedures are conducted when the nerve of the tooth results in being infected or the pulp results in being damaged. For the duration of a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp is taken out and the inside of the tooth is cleaned out and sealed.
Root canal procedures have the reputation of being unpleasant. In fact, many people even will say the procedure on its own is no more painful than having a filling inserted. The discomfort that’s experienced during the period leading up to a getting dental care is actually the uncomfortable period of time, not the root canal procedure alone.
What are the causes of pulp damage?
Some frequent causes for harm to the pulp are from decay, some tooth trauma, recurring dental procedures on the tooth. Chewing, clenching and grinding hard objects may possibly cause cracks in a tooth. Additionally, bacteria can enter into the cracks and cause damage to the pulp.
Why do patients need a root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is to help you save your teeth, which might otherwise have to be removed. It is necessary when the nerve or blood supply of the tooth is infected by way of injury or decay.
How is a root canal done?
Before the procedure starts, you will be given a shot of local anesthesia around your tooth. A rubber sheet will likely be put all around your tooth to separate your tooth from the remainder of your mouth. The rubber sheet assists with preventing saliva from getting into the root canal. It also assists with preventing you from breathing in or swallowing any liquids or small tooth pieces.
The diseased pulp will then be removed from the tooth. An xray might be taken and your tooth cleaned from any leftover diseased pulp from the root canal by utilizing dental tools and cleaning fluids. When all the pulp has been removed, the open root canal will be cleaned with germ-killing liquid. The root canal will be dried and a filling will be put on the inside of your tooth root. Next, your tooth will be covered with a temporary or permanent crown.
How long will restored teeth last?
Tooth restorations are the different ways for a dentist to replace or restore missing teeth or missing parts of the tooth structure. Depending on what kind of tooth restoration you had done and how you take care of your teeth may affect the length of time it may last. Consult with your dentist to find out with your particular situation.
Dental Crowns:
What are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a tooth-formed “cap” that is positioned over a tooth to cover the tooth to reestablish its size and shape, durability and enhance its visual appeal. The crowns, when cemented into position, completely encase the complete visible portion of a tooth that is situated at and above the gum line.
What is the purpose of Dental Crowns?
A dental crown may be necessary in the following circumstances:
- To protect a weakened tooth from breaking or to keep together portions of a cracked tooth.
- To restore an presently broken tooth or a tooth which has been significantly worn down.
- To cover and assist a tooth with a significant filling when there isn’t a lot of tooth remaining.
- To hold a dental bridge in position.
- To cover drastically discolored teeth.
- To cover a dental implant.
- For making a cosmetic modification.
How Long do Crowns Last?
Crowns typically last about five to eight years. There are several that may last even longer. Your dentist will check your crown at your regular checkups, and if it’s still functioning well, you may be able to have it for several years.