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How Dental Crowns Can Save Your Teeth

As you age, so do your teeth. Tooth decay, trauma, fillings or even the way you chew can make your teeth wear down as well. As a dentist, my endeavor is for you to have your natural teeth for as long as you can. Thankfully, we have restorative dentistry procedures that deal with the preservation and maintenance of natural teeth.

Here are some signs of dental trouble that you should watch out for before the problem escalates into a more severe condition and your natural tooth is not salvageable.

Toothache because of cavity; broken, cracked, impacted, an abscessed tooth; and gum disease.
Cavities
Sensitive Teeth
Broken, Cracked, Chipped, Lost, or Impacted Tooth
Stained Teeth

The aim of this article is to educate you about crowns, one of the popular teeth restorations that help in preserving your natural teeth.

What Are Crowns And Its Benefits?

Your tooth can be cracked, broken, or fractured because of an injury or accident. It could be caused by eating a hard substance like a popcorn kernel or breaking open a bottle lid with your mouth. Damaged teeth cause sensitivity, discomfort, and toothache.

A crown is a tooth-shaped cap, made of ceramic, porcelain, or cement, that covers your damaged tooth entirely above the gum line.

Crowns improve your teeth structure, functionality, and appearance. Usually, a crown is used to:

Provide attachment to bridges
Cover stained, odd-shaped teeth and implants
Fix a damaged tooth, cavity and chipped or worn out fillings
Reconstruct weakened, fractured and broken teeth to prevent them from falling apart
Cover a weakened tooth that requires a large filling but there aren’t many portions of the natural tooth to hold the filling in place

Placing a crown over a weakened tooth can help the tooth from breaking or wearing down even more. Crowns are also used to restore stained or misshapen teeth, as well as to shelter a tooth that has had a root canal.

However, as beneficial as crowns are, they should be used minimally for aesthetic purposes and more for restoring severe tooth damage purposes only. This is because crowns remove much of the natural enamel, leaving behind only the already damaged portion of the tooth. You should discuss with your dentist any queries about crowns so that you can preserve and maintain your natural teeth for as long as possible.

What Is The Procedure for Dental Crowns?

If you are in need of a dental crown in Palo Alto, you will need a couple of visits at your dentist’s office to complete this treatment. For your first visit, your dentist will numb the area around the tooth to help with any discomfort. They will use a dental instrument to form and prep the tooth, so the crown will fit properly.

Sometimes an additional procedure may need to be completed to ensure a good fit for the crown. This procedure is generally what’s called a Core Build up and the purpose is to help support the crown. Next, a mold of your tooth will be taken and the temporary crown is placed to guard the prep tooth. The mold is sent to a dental laboratory where a customized crown is made just for you.

Once the dental office receives your crown from the lab, you will get an appointment time for your next visit. If you are satisfied with the shape, color and fit, then the crown will be permanently cemented on your second visit.

What You Need To Watch Out For After Your Crown Procedure

Sometimes, the crown received from the laboratory may not fit as well as the doctor, and you would like it to. To achieve optimum results, another mold will be taken and sent to the lab for another crown to ensure a proper fit.

Once the numbness has worn off and the crown is permanently placed, you may experience some soreness. There may also be slight pain when you bite down, or the change in temperatures may cause sensitivity for three to four days.

If you are having any discomfort you may take over-the-counter pain medication, as directed by your dentist. If, after a few days, you’re still experiencing discomfort and sensitivity, please call the office to make an appointment.

Sometimes the crown may feel too high when you bite down, please make an appointment to get your crown adjusted. This can also cause you to become sore. You would think that you could just get a filling. Unfortunately, when a tooth is in need of a crown, the tooth is not strong enough to support a filling. If your dentist places a filling instead of a crown, you could do more harm to that tooth in the long run and your dentist may not be able to salvage it.

A crown is meant to last a lifetime with proper care. However, just like real teeth, it is prone to injury, accidents, and damage because of poor oral care. Sometimes, the dental cement may loosen and wash out.

Remember, a crown may not last forever. It may need to be replaced if it has become faulty or worn down.

The lifespan of your crown is determined by the following factors:

How well you maintain your oral hygiene and how you properly floss and brush your teeth
The food and drinks you consume
Not biting into cold or hard substances with your teeth
The condition of the surrounding teeth and gums

Dentist Check Ups Are Important To Save Your Natural Teeth

Most times, damaged teeth, filling, and crown cause sensitivity, discomfort, and toothache. But sometimes, you may not even know you’ve got a crack in your tooth because it’s not visible to the naked eye. You might go to the dentist too late when your natural tooth cannot be saved.

Sometimes, your crown can become loose, making your tooth prone to bacteria and causing an infection and toothache.

The more regularly you visit your dentist, the better it is for your oral and overall health as waiting too long can lead to more serious health conditions.

Five simple steps to save a knocked-out tooth

According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), 5 million-plus teeth are knocked out every year.

Contact sports and car accidents are among the most frequent causes of knocked-out teeth. Other events that may result in a tooth being knocked out include playground accidents, fights, bicycle or motorcycle wrecks, or falls of any kind. Advanced gum disease and something as normal as eating a hard or sticky candy can also cause a permanent tooth to fall out.

In medical terms, a knocked out tooth is referred to as “avulsed” and means complete dislodgment of a tooth from its socket. It doesn’t, however, mean that the tooth is permanently lost. There are several ways you can save a knocked-out tooth even after an injury or accident.

When your tooth is broken, cracked, or knocked-out, follow these tips to increase the chances of your Palo Alto dentist saving it.

Steps to follow if your tooth gets knocked out

Step 1: Locate the tooth immediately

Locate the tooth right away – the moment you detect it is missing. Don’t leave it at the accident scene.

Pick up the knocked-out tooth by the crown, being cautious not to touch the root since the root can be easily damaged. The crown is the tooth’s chewing surface, while the root is the bottom part under the gum.

Step 2: Rinse the tooth

Rinse the teeth gently with saline water or milk while still holding it by the crown. If you don’t have either, clean water will suffice.

Do not dry, scrub, or wipe the tooth or attempt to get rid of any fleshy parts. Also, avoid wrapping the tooth with a cloth or tissue at any time.

Step 3: Gently put the tooth back in its socket

Try to gently reposition the clean tooth in the empty socket right away to improve the chances of having the nerves, blood vessels, and ligaments reattach and heal.

Use your fingers to push the tooth while still holding the crown. Close the mouth slowly and now hold the teeth gently by biting down.

Step 4: Keep the tooth moist

If you are having problems repositioning the tooth, don’t force it. Rather, preserve it in safe, PH-balanced liquid until you get to a dentist near you. Safe liquids include saliva, saline solution, and cold milk.

Milk is highly preferred because it is easily available and contains growth factors. Also, the fluid pressure and PH of the milk is conducive to that of the cells in the roots of the tooth. This minimizes the chance of damage to the tooth.

Step 5: See a dentist as soon as possible

To improve your chances of saving the tooth, visit a dentist as soon as possible. The American Association of Endodontists recommends seeing a dentist within 30 minutes. There are many family dentists in Palo Alto, so seeing one closest to you after an accident is worth the effort.

What do top dentists in Palo Alto do in the case of a knocked-out tooth?

You have a higher likelihood of successfully reattaching your tooth if you arrive at the dentist in time and when the tooth is whole.

Your dentist will employ one of the following methods:

Splint: In this treatment option, the dentist uses a small splint to secure the tooth to its neighbor. Your tooth will regrow its roots over time. It takes around three months for the tooth to re-establish its root in the jawbone.
Root canal: In this procedure, your Palo Alto dentist will extract the nerve of the tooth to preserve its viability.

What options do you have if your tooth cannot be saved?

When a tooth is severely cracked or too much time has elapsed since it got knocked out, chances are you will not be able to save it. In that case, your dentist will have to replace it, either with:

A bridge: A dental device consisting of one or more false teeth made from porcelain or resin replaces the missing natural teeth.
An implant: A dental implant is a metal screw that replaces a tooth root. It acts as an anchor for artificial teeth such as bridges, crowns, and dentures.
A denture: Artificial teeth custom-made by your dentist to replace removed or lost natural teeth.

Treatment for knocked-out teeth is possible, particularly if you act fast and follow the first aid tips listed above. And if the teeth can’t be saved, there are other treatment options for restoring a lost tooth, as you have seen above.

Remember, though, none of these measures will help a tooth that has been lost due to gum disease. So, ensure that you visit your Palo Alto dentist for regular checkups to avoid serious gum diseases.

At Cambridge Dental Studio, Dr. Alex Yen & Dr Jessica Sheu are both known for their gentle touch, their steady hands, and their calm and comforting demeanors that put our patients at ease. There is no dental fear that they have not experienced and they are very diligent about explaining the procedures so you know exactly what to expect!

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.aae.org/patients/
https://www.webmd.com/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

Book Your Appointment with Best Dentist in Palo Alto

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Dental Checklist for Your Next Dental Appointment

It is a good idea to be well prepared for your Palo Alto dentist’s appointments. Dental health plays a fundamental role in your overall health. This brief checklist will help you prepare for your upcoming dental appointment.

Create a list for your upcoming dental visit

Before your dental appointment, make a list of all your concerns, questions, and issues. This will help ensure that you don’t miss anything during the appointment. Few things are more annoying than discovering you forgot to discuss important questions or concerns with your general dentist in Palo Alto after you have left their office.

The list can include questions or issues like:

What are your options in fixing a certain dental concern
What kind of dental products/supplements you should use at home
Whether something you notice about your gums or teeth is an issue
What foods are ideal for your teeth
How to improve your dental anxiety

During your appointment, our dentists at Cambridge Dental Studio will be patient with you and take time to go through all your concerns and provide advice accordingly.

Verify your appointment.

At Cambridge Dental Studio, our friendly staff will always contact you via email and text 1 week and 2 days prior to your appointment to confirm and remind you of your appointment. Please ensure you add the appointment to your calendar.

Make a note of the exact time you should go for the appointment — also, try to arrive 10 minutes prior so that you can fill out the required paperwork.

What’s more, if this is your first visit or you are unfamiliar with the dental office’s location, you may want to inquire for directions. This will surely go a long way toward minimizing frustration or stress on the appointment day.

Notify the dentist of any health changes.

As we mentioned earlier, there is a strong correlation between dental health and general health. Not only can your dental health influence your overall health, but the opposite is also true.

Let your dentist know if there have been changes in your health or you are under any new medications. These new circumstances may necessitate a change in your dental care regimen. For instance, certain drugs might cause the mouth to dry up, making the teeth more vulnerable to decay. Furthermore, some diseases, such as diabetes, can have a substantial impact on your dental health. Make sure you furnish the dentist with your detailed medical history and carry a list of your medications to your appointment.

Lastly, consult with your dentist regarding any fears or concerns you have about how your general health and oral health may impact each other.

Gather the necessary documents.

It’s all too easy to forget vital documents when you’re racing to get to your dentist appointment. Gathering the relevant paperwork ahead of time can go a long way toward avoiding this.

Make sure to bring any appropriate insurance cards and their co-pays. A driver’s license or other state-issued ID is required at our dental office, as well.

Importantly, carry with you any oral devices you’re using to make sure they’re still functioning properly. Regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs are crucial in ensuring these devices are safe and effective at safeguarding your teeth health. These oral devices may include anything from retainers to dentures.

Follow the dentist’s instructions.

Are you getting ready for a dental procedure? Are there any guidelines your general dentist in Palo Alto gave you beforehand? If that is the case, it is wise to note them down, so they are easier to recall and follow.

Some dental procedures require that you don’t drink or eat right before the procedure. For others, the dentist may require you to eat prior to the procedure because eating after will be tricky.

If you are going to be sedated, the dentist may advise that you bring a friend along so that they can drive you home after the appointment.

Whatever the case may be, the advisable thing to do is listen to the dentist and do your best to follow their instructions.

Brush your teeth prior to the appointment.

Even though the top dentists in Palo Alto have seen it all, it’s rational to brush your teeth before your dental appointment. Having a bad breath or dirty teeth may make you feel uncomfortable and maybe a tad bit embarrassed. Brushing beforehand will make you feel more at ease once the dentist gets to work.

Remember, everyone appreciates a clean mouth!

Don’t stress over your next appointment.

When you plan ahead, dental appointments become a breeze. Use the above checklist, and you will be well prepared to see your Palo Alto dentist.

However, remember that not being prepared for an appointment is no reason to postpone it. Visit your dentist today!

Schedule Dental Appointment with General Dentist in Palo Alto

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5 Reasons to consider root canal treatment

The phrase “root canal” can spark anxiety in people’s minds. Nonetheless, root canals can be exceedingly helpful in saving your teeth if they get infected. This pain-free treatment is recommended in several dental situations.

Some of these situations include:

Decayed teeth
Infection of the pulp
Loss of tooth nerve
Tooth fractures or trauma
Red or swollen gums around a tooth
Teeth sensitivity to hot and cold foods
Chewing pain when biting down

Root canal treatment at a glance

A root canal treatment (endodontic therapy) entails cleaning out the decay and saving the infected tooth. During a root canal procedure, your Palo Alto dentist will:

Assess the degree of damage to your teeth
Take an X-ray to analyze the infected area further
Use local anesthesia to numb the section around the infected tooth so they can commence with the procedure.
Get rid of the decayed tissues and disinfect the tooth properly
Perform the tooth restoration procedure. This can be done on the same day or scheduled for a later day. It depends on the complexity of the infection or the location of the tooth.

Why you should consider root canal treatment

There are 5 more compelling reasons to consider a root canal:

Prevent infection of surrounding teeth

When your pulp or tooth’s nerve tissue gets damaged, it breaks down, allowing the upsurge of bacteria in the pulp chamber. Usually, this may cause gum infections, bones loss, and swelling. It could also cause a dental abscess, spreading the infection past the ends of the tooth roots. A root canal treatment is required to take out the infected pulp that houses the bacteria, thus preventing the spread of the bacteria.

Prevent tooth loss

There are several ways of treating a decayed tooth. Some people prefer tooth extraction to get rid of the tooth in question. Usually, this provides a permanent remedy in dealing with cavities or further toothaches.

However, at Cambridge Dental Studio, we also lean toward protecting and preserving your natural tooth over extracting, whenever possible. Tooth extraction leaves gaps between teeth, which requires cosmetic or restorative procedures, such as implants or bridges to close the gap. With root canal treatment, patients don’t have to be concerned about losing their teeth or requiring another procedure. After the procedure, your tooth will be restored and will function like any normal teeth.

Prevent jawbone degeneration

Unlike tooth extraction, a root canal treatment preserves the infected tooth. When you have missing teeth for an extended period, your jawbone begins to degenerate, causing premature sunken or aging appearance. Root canals, thus, help preserve your jawbone structure by preserving your natural teeth.

Improve teeth aesthetics

Root canal entails removing the infected tooth pulp. The area is then cleaned and restored with a dental filling or a crown that restores your natural smile!

Improve oral and overall health

Severe tooth decay has a significant impact on a person’s oral and overall health. People with poor dental health are likely to develop diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal infections, respiratory infections, and many other complications. Treating tooth decay through a root canal can help boost your oral health, which in turn improves your overall health.

What to expect after a root canal procedure

For the first few days following a root canal procedure, your tooth may feel a little sensitive. You might also experience mild inflammation. If that is the case, your dentist may prescribe some pain medication to help ease the discomfort.

While you can resume normal activities after a root canal procedure, it is best to avoid sticky, chewy, hard, and crunchy foods to ensure proper healing.

Do you need a root canal procedure in Palo Alto?

There is plenty of misconception surrounding the benefits of root canal treatment. However, most Palo Alto dentists will agree that getting a root canal procedure is the ideal option for saving a severely infected tooth. So, how do you know you need a root canal done? The only way to tell is by visiting a dentist in Palo Alto and getting evaluated. Don’t put your oral and overall health at risk. Schedule an appointment soon.

Latest Solutions for Common Dental Problems

Advances in medical techniques are significantly changing the way dental treatments and procedures are performed. Constantly at the forefront of advancement, the top dentists are going all-out to meet their patients’ needs by using the latest procedures that result in more comfortable experiences, less pain, and shorter recovery times. This post will explore several modern solutions and procedures that general dentists in Palo Alto use to manage common day-to-day dental problems.

High-tech X-Rays for Improved Dental Health

In many dental offices, digital X-rays are replacing traditional radiographs. The reason for their popularity is simple – they are more efficient and faster than traditional radiographs.

So, how do digital X-rays work? Usually, the dentist places an electronic sensor or phosphor plate (as opposed to film) in your mouth to capture the image. Instantly, the digital image is scanned or relayed to a computer, where it becomes available for viewing. The process is faster and more efficient than processing conventional film.

Since the digital images are stored in the computer, your dentist can also compare the present images with the previous ones to determine if there is any positive progress.

And since the sensor and phosphor plates are more receptive to X-rays than film is, the amount of radiation dosage used is drastically reduced.

Digital X-rays have multiple uses apart from finding cavities. For example, they are used to observe the bone below the teeth to ascertain if the bone level of support is satisfactory. Dentists also use X-rays to examine the placement of an implant. What’s more, digital X-rays help endodontists to confirm if they have carried out root canal procedures properly.

Laser Dentistry to Treat Tooth Decay & Other Common Dental Conditions

When it comes to modern dental solutions, laser dentistry ought to be at the top of everybody’s list. Many dental procedures that were previously performed using conventional surgical techniques can now be carried out using a laser. From gum contouring, canker sores treatment, crown lengthening, removal of benign tumors, and teeth whitening. Laser technology can also be used to detect and fill cavities and perform surgery for periodontal disease.

Laser dentistry is known to offer faster, more precise, and more comfortable care.

Many family dentists in Palo Alto now use laser technology because they believe it has multiple advantages over traditional surgery, including:

More precision
Less pain and bleeding
Shorter recovery time
Reduced need for anesthesia

Invisalign for Straighter Teeth

Until recently, patients seeking discretion only had the option of requesting clear ceramic braces, but even though these were still visible and employed the same technology as conventional braces.

For patients with crooked or misaligned teeth, a wide range of less visible options are now available. Invisible braces and tray systems, such as Invisalign, have gained popularity because of how discrete and convenient they have become. For instance, Invisalign aligners allow you to remove the trays for brief periods of time (to brush or eat or for a special occasion) and are a lot less restrictive than traditional braces.

Read all about frequently-asked questions about Invisalign here.

Upgraded Tooth Repair Materials

Patients who had teeth bonded or filled two or even one decade ago would be shocked to see the repair materials dental professionals use today. Nowadays, modern materials (resin) are stronger, last longer, and are easier to apply than previous versions.

Even better, unlike the silver filings of yesteryears, resin comes in different shades and thus, can closely resemble the color of your teeth. The texture of filling and bonding material has also changed to mirror the shiny appearance of a natural tooth.

CAD/CAM Technology for Dental Crowns

CAM stands for computer-assisted manufacture, while CAD stands for computer-assisted design. Together, they translate into fewer visits to the dentist to complete procedures such as bridges and crowns.

A few years ago, when you needed a crown, the dentist would make a mold of the tooth and then send it to a dental laboratory to make a permanent one. This process could take weeks. However, with CAD/CAM technology, dentists can now make a crown while you wait.

CAD/CAM not only allow for faster turnarounds but also provide a high level of precision and superior results.

Thinner Veneers for Preserving Teeth

Veneers are thin, specially made moldings or shells that are used to cover crooked or unattractive teeth. New materials have made it possible to build even thinner veneers, which are simply as strong.

More importantly, the dentist can redesign the tooth edges so that the veneer fits snugly to give you an attractive smile.

New Procedures Make Your Visit as Efficient and Comfortable as Possible!

The field of dentistry continues to evolve at a fast pace. As a patient, it is vital to stay updated on these dental trends.

Opt for Palo Alto dentists who use the latest solutions to perform routine cleanings, dental implants, root canal, tooth fillings, and other dental procedures. After all, you want every dental visit to be as comfortable and efficient as possible. And these modern solutions and procedures guarantee that!

At Cambridge Dental Studio, our state-of-the-art technology, combined with friendly, compassionate staff, and a comfortable environment give you a patient experience that is unparalleled in Palo Alto. Contact us for all your dental needs!

Article resources:

Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:

https://www.webmd.com/
https://www.healthline.com/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
https://marketplace.ada.org/

Financing Dental Procedures for Stanford Students

Oral health is intrinsic to your general health and well-being. Regular dental visits help prevent, detect, and treat oral conditions before they become serious and cause other systemic problems. Delaying dental treatments can lead to longer treatments and higher costs.

However, even a simple cleaning can be costly and if you are a Stanford student looking for guidance on financing dental procedures, look no further, as this post will provide all the information you need to understand your financing options, including qualifications, what’s covered, and limitations.

Financing of Dental Procedures for Stanford University Students

There are many convenient financing options available for Stanford University students so you never have to postpone a dental visit.

Cardinal Care Dental Insurance

Cardinal Care is a wonderful benefit offered by Stanford University. Cardinal Care benefits are administered through Delta Dental of California. Unlike health care insurance which covers everything AFTER a certain substantial amount (deductible) is paid, Cardinal Care has a very nominal one-time $25 per year initial limit that needs to be paid by you before the insurance benefits kick in.

While you may choose any dentist under the Cardinal Care plan, you will maximize your benefits when you visit an in-network Delta Dental dentist in Palo Alto or in locations closest to you – remember that Cardinal Care provides benefits while you are at school, at home, or while traveling.

If you go to an in-network dentist, here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s covered:

All diagnostic and preventive services, including oral exams, routine cleanings, x-rays and fluoride treatments, are 100% covered.
Basic dental procedures, such as fillings and simple extractions, are 80% covered.
Other dental services, including root canals, periodontics, and oral surgery, are also 80% covered.

If you go to an out-of-network dentist, the benefits are less favorable. More details can be found here.

Dental Discounts

Local dentists also offer discounts for common dental procedures.

As providers for students, we at Cambridge Dental Studio, know these out-of pocket-expenses can add stress to an already overwhelmed student. This is the reason why we offer the most commonly uncovered procedures (by Cardinal Care) at a discounted rate. These include crowns and nightguards. Crowns are needed for teeth with low structural integrity and night guards are extremely beneficial for the stressful student who clenches and grinds their teeth!

Talk to our dental staff and we will be happy to provide you with more details on our discount packages for various dental procedures!

Stanford Financial Aid for Dental Procedures

Stanford University’s Financial aid is offered to all undergraduate and graduate students to cover unanticipated expenses, such as medical, dental, and legal. The programs typically reimburse a student the cost of the dental procedures that may be out of the students’ typical budget and the process is simple.

After an initial appointment, your Palo Alto dentist will determine if any procedures are needed. We will then create a treatment plan and a price estimate (or an invoice if the procedure is already completed) that you send along with an application to Stanford.

The graduate and undergraduate financial aid programs work slightly differently.

For graduate students, the emergency grant-in-aid program offers grants to students to cover financial emergencies or unanticipated expenses that may impede academic progress. The grant is not a loan and as such does not need to be repaid. The maximum coverage is capped at $5,000 per academic year. More information and the emergency grant-in-aid application can be found here: https://financialaid.stanford.edu/pdf/EmergencyGrant-In-Aid.pdf

Undergraduate students may apply for financial aid for dental expenses as well. However, additional expenses may be in the form of loans or scholarship funds based on your financial evaluation. Additionally, only expenses that exceed $150 will be considered and documentation of all costs incurred is required to process the request. Details and application can be found here: https://financialaid.stanford.edu/pdf/MedicalDentalExpense.pdf

Both undergraduate and graduate financial aid applications can be uploaded at: https://ecmform.stanford.edu/fao_upload/

Schedule a consultation with our dentists at Cambridge Dental Studio and we will be happy to draw up a treatment plan and a price estimate or provide a detailed invoice that you can use to apply for financial assistance and Stanford will typically process the claim in a timely manner.

Conclusion

At Cambridge Dental Studio, we’ve got your back on both health & budgetary fronts. If you’re a Stanford student, talk to us to see how we can help finance your dental procedures and minimize your out-of-pocket expense! We routinely work with insurance companies so you can get the most out of your plan and also offer student discounts and simple convenient payment plans for most treatments without having to go through the hassle of credit checks.

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Implants vs. Dental bridges: Which One Should I opt for?

Tooth loss is more common than you might think. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, an estimated 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth and about 40 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. While there are many restorative treatments for tooth loss, we will focus on dental bridges and implants in this article.

While dental bridges or implants will both restore your smile to normal, both treatments are different from one another. We have assembled this brief guide to explain the major differences between the two. Hopefully, it will help you decide what would be the better option to discuss with your dentist in Palo Alto.

The difference between implants and bridges

According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, about 3 million people in the U.S. receive 5.5 million implants yearly. This is a number that is rapidly growing each year.

Basically, a dental implant is an artificial post (mostly made from titanium) that is inserted into a patient’s jawbone and left to Osseo-integrate or fuse with the adjacent bone. Once that has occurred, your dentist attaches an abutment to the post-frame and then cements a crown on top, completing the entire procedure.

On the other hand, as the name suggests, a dental bridge is used to bridge the gap left by a missing tooth or teeth. It uses one or more adjacent teeth as an anchor on which to attach a crown (that takes up the space of the missing tooth). The anchoring teeth are known as abutment teeth, while the false teeth that lie in between are known as pontics.

Here is a useful graphic to help you visualize the differences between implants & bridges.

Diagram Description automatically generated

Implants vs. Bridges: A comparison

It is worth noting that, regardless of the above differences, your decision to opt for bridges or dental implants in Palo Alto will depend on your medical or oral health, your budget, and your lifestyle. So, read on to find out more.

Time Factor

How soon do you need your teeth replaced? Dental bridges are a popular option because of the speed at which the replacement takes place. The best dentists in Palo Alto would require you to make no more than two visits to their clinic. The initial visit is meant for consultation and impression taking. The second visit is usually for the fitting of the bridge.

In contrast, a dental implant procedure requires several stages and might take 3-9 months from start to finish, depending on the complexity of your case.

Eligibility/restrictions on candidacy

There is extensive research available on the installation of implants in adults; however, there is a shortage of data available on the same for adolescents and children. Most dentists are concerned about the “growth spurts” linked to the maxilla and mandible and recommend they (children) wait until 16 to consider implants.

You also need to be pretty healthy to undergo an implant procedure. If you have a blood disease, a thyroid problem, or suffer from leukemia or diabetes, there is a higher probability of implant failure. Additionally, if you are a smoker, you will be advised to quit during the treatment period.

Bridges, on the other hand, are generally suitable for adolescents. However, they do require you to have healthy adjoining teeth that will need to be ground to anchor the bridge. If you suffer from tooth decay, gum disease, or have chipped or cracked teeth, you might need to undergo additional dental treatment before the teeth are healthy enough to support a bridge.

Comparing the cost

Bridges are a less expensive solution than dental implants, making them a preferable option for many patients. A bridge costs about $500 – $1,200 per tooth, while a single tooth implant can cost around $2,200. Most insurance plans cover bridges, but that is not the case with implants.

That said, implants may be a more economical solution in the long run as they are more durable than bridges. Dental bridges can last around ten years. On the other hand, implants can last about 25 years or even a lifetime as long as you observe a proper dental care routine.

The functionality and oral health impact

When restoring your teeth, you want to pick a treatment option that will help you look and function better. Both dental bridges and dental implants will help you attain a striking smile, and whichever option you prefer, you will be happy with the outcome.

However, dental implants in Palo Alto may be a slightly preferable option when you consider the appearance, functionality, and overall oral health aspect. Dental implants not only closely resemble your natural roots but also help maintain your jawbone, which is a vital factor to consider. Because dental implants replace the entire tooth, not just the visible part of your tooth, and are rooted in the jawbone, they help prevent bone atrophy, strengthen the jawbone, and may even stimulate the bone to grow. By maintaining and stimulating the growth of the jawbone, implants actually help preserve the shape of your mouth and face and also help maintain proper chewing function.

In addition, dental bridges require the healthy adjoining teeth to be contoured and reshaped into tooth stubs that allow for the crown to be mounted on top. This causes loss of healthy tooth tissue and the adjoining teeth can weaken over time leading to damaged teeth, requiring longer bridges or other restorative procedures in the long run.

Which is the more comfortable option?

Besides enhancing your appearance and function, your replacement teeth should be comfortable so you can talk, smile, and eat without discomfort.

Implants not only replicate the natural look of your teeth and offer the same function as natural teeth, they are also more comfortable and studier when compared to dental bridges. Once fitted, implants feel just like natural teeth. They are strong, so you can enjoy your favorite snack, regardless of how chewy or crunchy it is, without worrying about your tooth chipping or cracking.

Bridges can also be a comfortable solution. Made with porcelain, they feel like natural teeth and usually fit well in the mouth. A good dentist will be able to provide you with a very comfortable dental bridge solution. Contact our dentists at Cambridge Dental Studio to discuss if dental bridges are a good solution for your dental needs.

Conclusion: Implants vs. bridges

Both implants and bridges are great solutions to missing teeth. While bridges are a comfortable, fast, and budget-friendly solution, implants provide a studier and longer-lasting option with cosmetic and long-term oral health benefits.

We hope this post has cleared up most of the key differences between the two treatments. If you are still indecisive on which procedure you should opt for – implants vs. bridges – contact our Palo Alto dentists at Cambridge Dental Studio. Our friendly dentists are here to answer all your questions, do a thorough medical evaluation, and discuss your financial options to suggest the best procedure for you.

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6 Reasons Why You Should Schedule A Dental Appointment Now If You Haven’t Seen a Dentist in a While!

Since the beginning of 2020, our lives have changed dramatically due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The world as we knew it seemed to come to a stop. Businesses shut their physical locations and stay-at-home orders made in-person dental appointments difficult to schedule.

However, thanks to social distancing guidelines, extensive hand hygiene, face masks, and vaccine rollout, the U.S. is slowly inching toward normalcy. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) now allows fully vaccinated persons to resume their pre-pandemic activities. Face coverings are no longer mandatory in outdoor settings except in crowded places and for unvaccinated people. On June 15^th, the State of California is set to fully reopen when face coverings will no longer be required for vaccinated individuals in indoor settings as well. Despite the relaxed guidelines and an improved situation, many people are continuing to postpone their regular dental visits.

Seeing your Palo Alto dentist for routine checkups and cleanings is not something you should disregard or take lightly. Remember, dental checkups are essential for your dental and overall health. So, don’t let COVID-19 delay your routine dental visit.

How frequently should you see your dentist?

Dental professionals recommend that you should have an oral checkup every six months. This allows the dental professional to clean and check your teeth on a regular basis and avert any serious oral complications from occurring.

Although a bi-yearly visit is a general guideline, this can change depending on your specific dental health requirements. Some people need to visit a dental clinic more than twice a year since they are more prone to gum disease than others. The American Dental Association recommends frequent visits at intervals set by the dentist. Usually, after your initial checkup, your dentist will create a customized dental health plan that suits your individual needs.

Why you should schedule an dental appointment now

1. The dentist’s office has always remained a safe place, even before the pandemic.

Long before 2020, dentists in Palo Alto and all over the U.S. have followed the safety and sanitation measures set by the CDC and OSHA. Although those measures continue to play a critical role in avoiding cross-contamination, dental offices are currently implementing extra protocols during dental appointments. The ADA, CDC, OSHA, and other state health organizations

have set forth safety measures to protect patients visiting dental offices during these extraordinary times. At Cambridge Dental Studio, we carefully observe guidelines set by the ADA, CDC, and OSHA. Our goal is to keep everyone healthy and safe as we monitor safety updates daily and revise our practices accordingly.

2. Discover dental problems before they exacerbate.

It can take months to years for a cavity to develop. At its onset, tooth decay can be easily detected and treated to protect your teeth from cracks and fractures. However, if ignored, the problem can spread and require intricate, restorative dentistry to address the issue. To save you both money and time, prioritize proper prevention and make general dentists in Palo Alto your allies.

3. Routine professional cleanings remove plaque.

Although flossing and brushing are essential to keeping your teeth in good shape, the tools and DIY products you have at home can’t compare to the professional-grade equipment dentists have at their offices. By having your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year, built-up plaque and tartar can be easily removed. Plaque and tartar can start affecting your gums over time and lead to periodontal diseases. Regular dental visits ensure that your dental health remains in immaculate condition and is protected from oral issues like cavities and gum disease.

4. Keep gum disease at bay.

The initial stages of gum disease usually have no notable symptoms. This makes it difficult for an individual to spot gum disease on their own. Fortunately, dentists are trained to detect these kinds of diseases even when they are not visible.

During a routine checkup, your Palo Alto dentist will ensure that the gums are in perfect condition. They will check for swelling, deep gum pockets, and receding gums. If the dentist spots any of these tell-tale symptoms, they will address the underlying cause early.

5. Routine oral cancer screenings

Oral cancer is among the fastest spreading cancers and visiting a dental clinic once every six months can save your life. Being part of a high-risk group or having a history of oral cancer will prompt your dentist to perform an oral cancer screening during your routine dental appointments.

Hypothetically, we can argue that an individual who sees a dentist bi-yearly has less probability of developing late-stage cancer as the ADA now recommends dentists conduct examinations for oral and oropharyngeal cancer for all patients to aid in early detection of these cancers.

6. Routine appointments are crucial to maintaining overall health

All too often, people disregard oral conditions and hope that the problem will fade away on its own. However, oral diseases aren’t always confined to your mouth.

Did you know that the bacteria that can cause gum disease can travel through the bloodstream and cause heart and lung damage? To prevent this from happening, prioritize routine dental visits starting today.

Don’t wait to schedule a dental appointments

If it has been more than six months since you last visited a dental office, don’t wait any longer to rectify the problem. We understand that navigating through life in a pandemic like the one we are facing can be anxiety-inducing. Luckily our dentists at Cambridge Dental Studio, are taking stringent measures to ensure your regular visit during COVID-19 is safe.

Schedule an appointment with your Palo Alto dentist as soon as possible, and start enjoying improved dental care again. The longer you wait, the higher the likelihood of developing more serious dental complications that will require more money and time to fix.

Learn about out all the safety precautions we have in place to ensure your safety at: https://cambridgedentalstudio.com/covid-19/

Schedule Dental Appointment with Palo Alto Dentist

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How to choose the best dentist for you and your family

“Who are the best dentists in Palo Alto?” This is a question that will frequently come to your mind when searching for dental services in Palo Alto.

Indeed, not any best dentist will do when it comes to you and your loved one’s dental health. And, while the term “best” can be subjective, there are several factors you should consider when searching for a family dentist.

Well, use the tips outlined in this post, along with your own judgment, to find your family’s next oral care provider.

Experience and technology

The adage “experience is everything” is true when choosing a dentist you can trust with your family’s dental health. When you find a Palo Alto dental office you are interested in, it’s good to visit their website to find out more about the dentist’s experience and educational background.

The best dentist will have years of experience providing his/her patients with first-rate dental care using the latest in planning, diagnostic, treatment, and technology. At Cambridge Dental Studio, our state-of-the-art technology, combined with friendly, compassionate staff and comfortable, spa-like environment gives you a patient experience that is unparalleled in Palo Alto.

Location and opening hours

Location: another important factor to consider when assessing whether a dentist is right for you and your family. Opting for a dentist who is near your residence, work premises, or child’s school makes it easier to honor appointments.

Considered the dentist’s operating hours, as well? The best dentist should offer flexible and convenient timings to meet your busy demands. Besides being available for emergencies, make sure they are open on weekends, early mornings, afternoons, as well as late afternoons.

Do they provide comprehensive dental services?

Want a dentist who can only provide the best routine cleanings, cavity fillings, and general dental checkups in Palo Alto? That wouldn’t be bad, but it’s advisable to select a dentist who can do little more than that.

Go for a dentist that provides a range of dental services that you and your family will ever require. Do you intend to get high-quality dental implants in Palo Alto? What about teeth whitening and pediatric dentistry services? Your preferred dentist should be able to offer that and much more!

Learn all about the wide-range of dental services, latest in dental technologies that ensure a comfortable and precise treatment, and the amazing prices on Invisalign and teeth whitening that we offer at Cambridge Dental Studio.

Cost and insurance

Some dental procedures are quite expensive. Just Google “cost of Invisalign in Palo Alto,” and you will realize what we are talking about. Not everybody is comfortable paying thousands of dollars for a single dental operation.

That said; you definitely don’t want to choose a dentist just because they are inexpensive. You want to choose a dentist that is upfront about his/her dental fees. Most importantly, you want to pick a dentist who will provide you with reasonable dental payment plans.

Additionally, if you are lucky enough to have dental insurance cover, make sure your preferred dentist accepts your policy. How he/she handles deductibles and co-pays are valid questions to ask upfront too.

Office culture and atmosphere

Take time to weigh up the atmosphere and culture of your preferred dental office. In short, before you opt for a particular Palo Alto dentist, you should visit his/her office to see how it actually looks. Is the office clean? How comfortable is the waiting area? Are the employees friendly and welcoming?

If the whole family feels safe and welcome in the office, dental visits will be less worrying and stressful for everyone. Notably, you will help eradicate your kids’ fear of the dentist – introducing them to a lifelong commitment to oral hygiene.

Check reviews and testimonials online.

Check reviews and testimonials for different dental offices to see what past clients had to say about their services. If you see many positive reviews about a particular dentist, he/she will likely offer you the attention and care you deserve.

There are various places where you can check for these reviews: Yelp, Google+, Facebook, HealthGrades, Zocdoc, just to mention a few. While reading through tons of reviews might appear quite boring, spending the time now will minimize unnecessary hassles in the future.

Ask about teledentistry capabilities.

Dentists nowadays can diagnose and treat dental patients virtually through electronic information and communication technologies such as video conference calls, emails, and phone calls.

Note: Teledentistry doesn’t replace in-person visits; however, for you and your family, it means reduced trips to the dental clinic. Being the busy person you are, you can always make routine dental follow-ups from the comfort of your home or office.

The takeaway

As you can see, there are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to choosing a dentist in Palo Alto. The good news is that you and your family’s dental issues will be a thing of the past once you find an experienced and compassionate dentist.

All the best as you make that crucial decision!

Disclaimer: We routinely draw upon public health resources to inform our write-ups. Information in this article may be drawn up from multiple public health sources, including:

American Dental Association’s MouthHealthy.org

California Dental Association

American Dental Association’s Action for Dental Health

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

Webmd

Healthline

Laser Dentistry

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How To Love Your Teeth

February is the month of love. When you talk of love, many things come to mind – from your families, friends, heart-shaped candy treats, chocolate, wine, and romantic gifts. But your teeth don’t make it to the list.

So, we thought, why not encourage you to show some love to your teeth this month?

Why are your teeth important?

Your teeth and smile are one of the significant aspects of creating a memorable first impression. They can make you look and feel good, transmitting that positivity to others.

A healthy set of teeth indicates you are disciplined about your life, including oral hygiene. It can also boost your self-confidence, social life, and image.

But the physical appearance of your teeth is more than skin deep. Your dental health is linked to your overall health. For example, keeping your heart healthy is tied to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. The bacteria that can cause gum disease can travel through the bloodstream and cause heart damage. It forms small blood clots that can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

And, of course, you cannot take the basic functions that your teeth and gums do for granted. From relishing varied kinds of food to adding spice to your life, your teeth deserve all your attention, love, and care all year long.

Five ways to show love to your teeth

Here are some ways you can love your teeth and preserve your health.

1. Embrace Teeth Positivity

Extending the body positivity concept to our teeth, I cannot emphasize enough to my patients how important it is to fully accept and feel beautiful about our smiles.

When you love your teeth, you will consciously try to take care of them and appreciate their real value. If you’d like to gift yourself something nice for your teeth, an electric toothbrush, maybe as suggested by your dentist, is a great idea.

Remember, there’s no such thing as smiling too much. Smile, and the whole world smiles with you. You don’t need to wait for your next dentist visit to smile and change your life instantly for the better.

2. Choose a teeth-friendly diet and healthy lifestyle

One secret of building strong and healthy teeth lies in your diet. Sugars are harmful to your heart and teeth. Limit or abstain from sugar found in hard sticky and chewy candies, toffees, sugary drinks, and processed foods. If you need to satisfy your sweet craving, then fruits and dark chocolate are smart options. Dark chocolate has an advantage over milk chocolate as it contains cavity-fighting compounds which negate the effects of sugar in your mouth.

Acidic foods and drinks can erode your enamel and so be moderate in its consumptions. Some examples include citrus fruits, tea, coffee, etc.

The fiber in fresh fruits and vegetables like apples and celery aid in saliva production and natural cleansing of your teeth and gums. The chewing action helps reduce the chances of decay, and hence, chewing gums approved by the ADA helps protect your teeth.

If you are prone to bad breath, avoid foods such as garlic, onion, and pungent, spicy foods. If you have persistent bad breath despite avoiding certain foods, regular brushing, flossing, and using a mouthwash, then it could be the early signs of gum disease and time to visit your dentist.

Cutting down on alcohol and tobacco are smart choices for your teeth. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to higher plaque levels and make you three times more prone to permanent tooth loss. Alcohol can also stain your teeth and dry your mouth.

Tobacco use can minimize blood flow to your gums and lead to gum disease. It increases your risk of heart disease. Tobacco use can also cause dry mouth and tooth loss due to lack of moisture.

3. Rinse well

One of the overlooked aspects of loving your teeth and gums is the practice of rinsing your mouth with water. Ideally, you must rinse your mouth immediately after you’ve eaten your food. It becomes even more important to swish your mouth with water to remove as many food particles, bacteria, and plaque in your mouth.

You can also mix an alcohol-free mouthwash in water and rinse your mouth for better saliva production. Alcohol dries your mouth and harsher on the skin. Even a simple salt-water rinse can do wonders for your oral health.

One of the common mistakes while brushing your teeth with a fluoridated toothpaste is to end the daily routine by rinsing your mouth with water. It defeats the purpose if the fluoride is rinsed away and you deprive your teeth of its benefits. Instead, rinse your mouth with water before you finally spit out the foamy toothpaste. It gives your teeth the chance to absorb the fluoride.

4. Practice good oral hygiene

The practice of brushing your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste is central for good oral care. There is a proper technique to brush your teeth properly. The ADA recommends you brush your teeth in short, gentle strokes, at a 45-degree angle for 2 minutes, twice a day. This is to ensure that your toothbrush bristles do not remove the enamel that protects your teeth. When brushing the back of your teeth, it’s best to hold the toothbrush vertically and brush in multiple short strokes. Your teeth absorb the fluoride in the toothpaste to strengthen the enamel. You can use an antibacterial mouthwash as part of your daily oral routine.

Brushing and cleaning your tongue is also very important as skipping this step means the plaque sits there, and you are prone to bad breath, teeth decay, and gum disease.

Change your toothbrush every three months or until the bristles get frayed. If you continue to use the frayed toothbrush, it will gather food particles and bacteria, which get reintroduced in your mouth, putting it at risk for decay and even heart issues.

It’s not enough to brush your teeth as it covers only 60% of your tooth’s surface. It’s just as important to floss your teeth once a day, preferably in the night before bedtime. Flossing accounts for the rest of the 40% of the tooth’s surface.

5. Fix a date with your dentist

One sure way of showing love to your teeth and proving that you care is to fix a date with your dentist. Having a long-term relationship with your dentist is the best thing you can do for your oral health.

You must visit your dentist at least twice a year, once every six months, for regular teeth cleaning and also to identify any early signs of any dental conditions such as a tooth cavity or oral cancer.

Your dentist can also demonstrate and guide you on the right technique of brushing and flossing your teeth. Those who regularly see their dentist for checkups are more likely to maintain a consistent dental care routine that aids in preserving natural teeth.

The American Dental Association (ADA) also recommends regular teeth cleaning to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar. Tartar especially can be removed only by dentists and their specialized tools.

Regular dental visits, examinations, and cleaning will help identify any early signs of a dental condition and prevent it from getting more severe. It will also help you save money on dental care.

Final Thoughts

We urge you to love your teeth by taking care of them. All you need to do is focus on the basics such as daily brushing and flossing, following a teeth-friendly diet, limiting or abstaining from smoking and drinking, and regular dental checkups.

Follow these simple tips, and you will reap lasting benefits for your teeth.

You can count on our Palo Alto dentists at Cambridge Dental Studio for providing excellent and affordable dental care for you and your family.

Call us at (650) 382-3068 or book your appointment online.

Disclaimer: We routinely draw upon public health resources to inform our write-ups. Information in this article may be drawn up from multiple public health sources, including:

American Dental Association’s MouthHealthy.org

California Dental Association

American Dental Association’s Action for Dental Health

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

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