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Monthly Archives

April 2015

What can be done to fix my slanted teeth?

By Orthodontics

My teeth are badly slanted. It really looks like dominos lined up parallel but falling backwards. They look flared out if that describes it any better. I am 27 yrs old now and worried that the older I get the worse they will look. What can be done to fix them? McKoy

McKoy – When teeth are flared, it is most often due to lack of space in the arch. Younger patients can benefit from an expander to assist in proper growth of the arch.

For adults, an orthodontist may recommend braces extractions, or other corrective surgery. Each patient’s case is different. We recommend that you select a few orthodontists with whom you can schedule consultations, learn about your options, and compare them. An examination and diagnostic studies will eventually be required to determine which treatment options are best for your case and the results you can expect from each of them.

 

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

My bite is off and my prosthodontist says I need all new crowns

By Porcelain Crown, Prosthodontist

My top front teeth have porcelain crowns over them. It has been about 5 years since I got them and now my bite is off. My prosthodontist says I need new crowns. All of them need to be replaced. Is this really the solution? I called my insurance company, and they will provide some coverage for the new crowns, but is this really necessary? Thanks. Jakki

Jakki – Your jaw, bite, and crowns need to be examined to answer your question as to whether replacing your crowns is the answer to your bite problem. We recommend that you get a second and third opinion before you agree to any dental treatment that addresses the bite issue.

Are you grinding your teeth? Are you experiencing headaches or neck pain? These issues often go along with a misaligned bite, but they don’t always occur.

In addition to consulting with additional prosthodontists, you may consider visiting an orthodontist. The combination of dental professionals will help determine the cause of your bite issue and the best treatment for it—if it needs to be treated at all. The additional opinions will help you make an informed decision about your oral health.

This post is sponsored by Naperville board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Looking for dentist to remove and replace cheap dental implants

By Dental Implants

5 years ago I got dental implants in Mexico. I’ve had problems since I got them. They were no good from the beginning but since I spend money on them, I decided to stick it out. I am having pain in one of the implants and am certain that it is infected. I don’t want to go back to Mexico to start this all over again. Will I be able to find a dentist here who will take out the implants and replace them, or will he not want to touch my mouth because I went to Mexico to get them? Jordan

Jordan – We have seen several cases of patients who opted for cheap dental implants and ended up doubling the cost to have implants removed and replaced.

Yes, you will be able to find a dentist who will remove your implants. But removal and replacement are not all done at the same time. After the implants are removed, you need to repeat the same steps that were required to receive implants. Diagnostic studies are required. It will also be verified whether or not you are a candidate for implants.

After removal, the implant sites need time to stabilize. Decisions need to be made on the best position for your new implants, and it will be determined if bone grafting is required.

We strongly recommend that you find a highly trained and highly experienced implant dentist for the removal and replacement. It will greatly increase your chances of having successful implants this time.

This post is sponsored by Naperville implant dentist and board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Can a dental implant bridge be used on front teeth?

By Dental Bridge, Dental Implants

Just from reading about the cost of implants I know I can’t do singles for my missing front teeth. I have 6 missing and the partial denture is way too uncomfortable. I am wondering if a dental implant bridge can be used on front teeth. – Nap

Nap – An implant-supported bridge can be used on front teeth. We recommend that you first visit a skilled implant dentist to find out if you are a candidate for dental implants.

The advantages of an implant-supported bridge over a partial denture are clear. Unlike a partial denture, the bridge will be stable and look and feel like your natural teeth. Dental implants prevent bone shrinkage.

Before deciding on an implant-supported bridge, find out your options for replacing your teeth. Depending on your case, a bridge may not be best for you. Also consider how long the bridge will last and how much it will cost. Compare your options with the cost of individual implants and how long individual implants will last. Be sure to ask how treatment can be made affordable for you.

This post is sponsored by Naperville implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Will a pediatric dentist whiten my daughter’s teeth?

By Pediatric Dentist, Sensitive Teeth, Teeth Whitening

My daughter is 8 yrs old. She is a model and has been in some local commercials. We both think that she would have more opportunities if she gets her teeth whitened. Will a pediatric dentist whiten her teeth or do I have to do it myself? Thanks Laney

Laney – There is limited research on teeth whitening for children. Many dentists recommended that whitening is delayed until permanent teeth are fully developed. When children are in their mid-teens, whitening by a dentist is safe.

While children are young, the pulp inside the tooth is still developing. Teeth bleaching can create sensitivity in adult teeth, and can be more intense in children. In unique situations, some dentists whiten children’s teeth, but you should not attempt it without a dentist’s supervision. Excessive whitening can weaken tooth structure and eventually darken teeth.

If you are interested in getting your daughter’s teeth whiter, speak with your pediatric dentist for recommendations.

This post is sponsored by Naperville Dental Specialists.

Clear choice review – teeth are too big

By Blog

I thought about dental tourism in Mexico for my all on 4 implants but I decided against it and went with Clear Choice. After the procedure ,I had much more pain that I expected or was told about but the implants healed well. I’ve had the implants for about 5 months. My problem is that the teeth on the implants are too big for my mouth and they make my lips poke out. I am sure that I will get this resolved soon. – Miranda

Miranda – Thank you for your Clear Choice review. We are glad to know that with the exception of your implant teeth, you had a good experience.

We recommend that you continue to pursue the issue with the size of the crowns on your implants. If your teeth are too large, they will detract from your smile and eventually you will regret not insisting on replacement crowns that look natural and fit well. Don’t settle or get used to them. You’ve made an investment in your smile, and your teeth should be beautiful.

This post is sponsored by Naperville implant dentist and board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

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