Month: August 2023

CEREC crowns have changed the face of dentistry by giving patients a fast and painless option for fixing broken or diseased teeth. The question of how long CEREC crowns endure WO2255is a prevalent one. For patients looking for long-term solutions for their dental restorations, knowing how long a CEREC crown will last is crucial. This article will cover the average lifespan of CEREC crowns and investigate the elements that contribute to their durability.

A Glimpse of CEREC Crowns 

Crowns made with CEREC technology (Chairside Economical Restoration of Aesthetic Ceramics) can be planned, fabricated, and affixed in a single appointment at the dentist’s office. High-quality ceramic crowns that closely mimic the patient’s teeth in colour and shape may now be fabricated using this cutting-edge technology thanks to computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM). CEREC crowns save patients time and hassle by eliminating the need for temporary restorations and further trips to the dentist.

Predicting the Survival Rate of CEREC Crowns

CEREC crowns’ durability can be affected by several factors:

1. When it comes to the crowns used in CEREC procedures, the quality of the ceramic used is often excellent. The durability of the crown depends on the material chosen. However, CEREC crowns are notoriously long-lasting because they are built to endure the pressures of biting and chewing.
2. Good oral hygiene is essential for the life of any dental treatment, including CEREC crowns. Plaque and germs can form around a tooth’s crown if it isn’t regularly removed through good oral hygiene practises, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash.
3. How your upper and lower teeth fit together when you bite or chew is called your occlusion, and it’s crucial to the longevity of your CEREC crowns. Misalignment of the teeth or an unequal bite might cause the crown to wear out faster than usual or even break. To reduce the likelihood of these problems, dentists take extra care to fit the bite correctly when placing CEREC crowns.
4. Too much force can be put on dental restorations like CEREC crowns if the patient engages in parafunctional habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching. The crowns may only last briefly if you engage in such practices. Dentists may suggest a nightguard or other methods to safeguard the crowns if bruxism occurs.
5. Depending on the patient and how well the crown is cared for, the average lifespan of a CEREC crown can be anywhere from five years to ten years. With care and frequent dental checkups, a CEREC crown can last as long as 15 years or more.
6. Although CEREC crowns are incredibly sturdy, they are not invincible. Factors that affect a crown’s durability include the patient’s oral hygiene routine, oral habits, and the crown material. To keep tabs on the crown’s health and handle any difficulties as soon as they arise, routine dental checkups are essential.

CEREC crowns are also susceptible to damage from accidents or mouth trauma, necessitating repairs or replacement. When engaging in potentially dangerous activities, like sports or vigorous activities, it is crucial to safeguard the crowns by donning a mouthguard.

In sum 

CEREC crowns are an excellent option for dental restorations because of their practicality and cosmetic appeal. CEREC crowns have a long lifespan if taken care of properly, often lasting between 10 and 15 years. The longevity of CEREC crowns can be affected by factors such as the patient’s oral hygiene, bite alignment, and chewing habits. Routine dental checkups and the maintenance of appropriate oral hygiene can maximize the lifetime and durability of CEREC crowns.

Root canal therapy, also called endodontic treatment, removes bacteria from a tooth’s pulp. It is a standard dental procedure and is covered under general dentistry. 

In earlier days, a root canal treatment was quite painful, and its effect lasted many days, but with advancements in dentistry, the treatment is no longer as painful. 

The procedure is not so painful as the dentist would use local anesthesia, and the residual pain can be easily managed at home with over- the- counter medicines.

Endodontic treatment prevents pain from a fractured or decayed tooth. There could be mild to moderate discomfort for a few days after the treatment, but if the pain persists, you might need additional cleaning of the canal.

If you are scheduled to undergo root canal therapy and wondering how much pain and discomfort to expect, this article will provide all the information about this topic.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

If your tooth has an abscess or it has decayed, the endodontic treatment procedure can save your tooth.

• Your dentist would begin with giving you a local anesthesia to mange pain or discomfort during the root canal procedure.
• The process involves removing the inflamed pulp from the inside of your tooth.
• Your dentist would clean and disinfect the surface inside the tooth after removing the infection.
• Finally, the doctor would place a dental filling to seal the tooth and protect it from further decay.

How Long Is The Root Canal Therapy?

You might need more than one appointment to treat your tooth, based on the degree of infection

• On average, it would take anywhere between thirty to sixty minutes for the endodontic treatment.
• If your affected tooth is large and has multiple roots, it might take one and a half hours.

How Much Pain After The Treatment Is Normal?

Many of us associate root canal therapy with a lot of pain and discomfort, but you must know that excessive pain is not normal. 

• Due to modern technology along with anesthesia, this treatment is now very quick and mostly pain-free.
• You can expect slight pain and tenderness for a few days (up to three days) after the treatment. The pain is primarily due to the cleaning procedure where the dentist makes a tiny hole in the tooth’s crown to remove the diseased pulp.
• Though the dentist has removed the nerve root, there are some nerves in the tissue and ligaments around the impacted tooth. These are never-ending and can produce discomfort, and are inflamed after the therapy.

What Can Cause Severe Pain After Endodontic Treatment?

• Sometimes your tissue can get damaged due to the dental instrument used during the procedure. This could also register some pain.
• If the dentist does not smooth down the temporary filling properly, it could cause discomfort because your mouth would bite harder on the spot where the filling is uneven or higher.
• The treated tooth can get bacteria again due to incomplete treatment. In such cases, the doctor generally advises antibiotics.
• Our molars have many canals, which complicates the procedure, and your dentist might miss one. When this happens, the initial pain never subsides.
• If the damaged nerves inside the tooth are not removed completely, you will feel pain when your tooth comes in contact with extreme temperatures (both hot and cold).
• Sometimes bacteria could get accidentally injected into the surrounding tissues. For instance, the file being used inside the tooth pokes past the tip of the tooth’s root and hits the tissue underneath. In such situations, the pain will disappear once the tissue heals.

How To Manage Pain After Root Canal Therapy?

Apart from taking over-the-counter medicines, you must also make some lifestyle changes right after the treatment to avoid immense pain.

• You must avoid hard and crunchy foods till the pain resolves.
• If you smoke, it is best to quit smoking.
• You can perform stress-relieving activities such as yoga, meditation, and tai chi. These activities aid in taking your focus off the pain.
• Reduce sugary foods and drinks.

How To Know If My Root Canal Has Failed?

Fortunately, the majority of root canals are successful. In some cases where the treatment fails, you can experience any of the following symptoms:

• The pain persists beyond three days.
• Gums are swollen.
• There is pus or drainage.
• The tooth has discolorations.
• Gums have boils or pimples on them.
• You develop sinus problems.

Conclusion 

Endodontic treatments are an excellent way to save a decayed tooth. The treatment is no longer painful and the residual pain can last up to three days. But if you develop complications and experience any of the signs of root canal failure, you should immediately get in touch with your dentist.

Dental emergencies can happen suddenly and call for prompt care to reduce discomfort, stop further damage, and restore oral health. Many still need to determine if their dental insurance will pay for urgent care. This article will discuss oral-care insurance coverage for urgent care, giving you important information to help you take an informed decision.

A glimpse of dental cover:

1. Having a Better Understanding of Dental Insurance Coverage 

Knowing how oral-care insurance works is crucial to comprehend the coverage for urgent care. Think about the following elements:

Dental insurance policies differ in coverage, perks, and exclusions. While some plans may have particular exclusions or limitations, others may provide extensive coverage for emergency medical services. Review your insurance policy documentation or speak with your insurance company to learn more about the specifics of your coverage.

Oral-care insurance policies frequently offer a network of preferred providers. Going to a dentist in your insurance’s network may provide you with better coverage for urgent care. Although at a different reimbursement rate, some plans also provide coverage for providers not in their network.

1. Emergency Dental Care Coverage:

Dental insurance coverage for urgent care may vary depending on the case’s particulars. Think about the following elements:

Oral emergencies are often divided into two categories: urgent emergencies and non-urgent emergencies. Urgent crises require rapid assistance to treat unexpected trauma, control bleeding, or relieve excruciating pain. Non-urgent emergencies are oral-care issues that should be treated immediately but are not immediately life-threatening or excruciatingly painful.

Emergency treatments frequently covered by dental insurance policies are judged vital for immediate relief and oral health preservation. These may consist of the following:

• Treatment for severe oral pain and toothaches.
• Extractions of teeth in a hurry.
• Tooth restoration for broken or damaged teeth.
• Treatment for oral abscesses or infections.
• Root canal therapy on the spot.
• Dentures and other oral-care appliances need emergency repair.

Pre-Existing Conditions & Waiting Periods: Some dental insurance policies may impose waiting periods before covering emergency procedures. These waiting periods make sure people don’t buy insurance just in case of an emergency. According to the rules of the insurance policy, pre-existing conditions that call for emergency care may only be partially covered or excluded.

Advantages Of Dental Insurance

Oral-care insurance plans in India offer comparable advantages to health insurance because they are a part of the latter.

1. Financial support

Teeth-related or oral operations can occasionally be pricey, much like other OPD services. Especially if the illness is severe, the remedy is difficult, and the patient lives in a big metropolis. Oral-care insurance plans can assist in reducing the financial strain while paying the medical payment in this situation.  

2. Routine examinations

To ensure excellent oral health, regular checkups are necessary. But only some have a strong desire to go to the dentist frequently. People may be more likely to get regular oral-care checkups and maintain better oral health if they know that a dental care insurance plan covers some dental care costs.

Conclusion 

Depending on the policy and the particulars of the oral-care emergency, dental insurance coverage for emergency treatments can vary. While some plans provide thorough coverage for critical and urgent therapies, others can have restrictions or exclusions. It is essential to comprehend all of the conditions of your dental insurance plan, including waiting periods, network providers, and coverage limitations. Contact your insurance company or check your policy documentation to find out the details of your coverage before seeking emergency oral care. Remember that prompt communication with your insurance company and the dentist can help you manage the financial aspects of dental crises and guarantee you receive the required dental care to restore your oral health.

Dental implants have revolutionized dentistry by offering a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. However, there may be concerns about whether older individuals can benefit from oral implants. Keep reading to explore the suitability of dental implants for older people and discuss the considerations and advantages associated with this oral restoration procedure. 

Age is Not a Limiting Factor

Contrary to common misconceptions, age alone is not a limiting factor for receiving dental implants, and advanced age does not automatically disqualify someone from being a candidate for this procedure. Instead, the focus should be on an individual’s overall health and bone density, which are crucial for successful implant placement.

Assessment of Overall Health

Before recommending dental implants, the dentist will comprehensively evaluate the patient’s overall health. Factors such as chronic medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle habits will be considered. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or severe cardiovascular issues may impact the success of the implant procedure. However, many older adults maintain good overall health and are suitable candidates for oral implants.

Evaluation of Bone Density

Sufficient bone density is essential for dental implants’ successful placement and long-term stability. During the initial consultation, the dentist will assess the quality and quantity of the patient’s jawbone through imaging techniques such as X-rays or CT scans. In cases where the bone density is inadequate, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be recommended to enhance the implant’s support.

Advantages of Dental Implants for Older People

1. Enhanced Quality of Life: Dental implants significantly improve chewing ability, speech clarity, and overall oral function. This allows older individuals to enjoy a wide range of foods and maintain a balanced diet, leading to better overall health and well-being.
2. Preservation of Facial Structure: Missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw, which can cause the face to appear sunken and aged. Oral implants stimulate the underlying bone, preventing further bone resorption and maintaining the natural facial contours.
3. Durability and Longevity: Dental implants are designed to permanently solve missing teeth issues. Proper care and maintenance can last a lifetime, eliminating the need for frequent replacements or adjustments associated with dentures or bridges.
4. Improved Confidence and Self-Esteem: oral implants provide a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing smile, boosting self-confidence and improving the overall quality of life. Older individuals can enjoy social interactions and feel more comfortable in public settings.
5. Convenience and Comfort: Unlike removable dentures, dental implants eliminate the need for messy adhesives or uncomfortable clasps. They are securely anchored in the jawbone, providing stability and eliminating concerns about slippage or discomfort.
6. Simplified Oral Hygiene: Dental implants can be cared for like natural teeth, requiring regular brushing, flossing, and routine oral check-ups. They do not require additional maintenance procedures or specialized cleaning solutions.

Conclusion

Age should not be a deterrent when considering oral implants. Older individuals can benefit greatly from this innovative oral treatment, improving their oral health, function, and overall quality of life. With a thorough assessment of overall health and bone density, dental implant procedures can be successfully performed in older patients. If you are an older individual with missing teeth, it is recommended to consult with a qualified dentist to determine your eligibility for dental implants. Enjoy the advantages of a complete smile and regain your confidence with the transformative benefits of oral implants.

Mouthguards are crucial in safeguarding your teeth from potential damage and trauma. Whether you are engaging in sports activities or struggling with teeth grinding, this simple dental device can provide significant protection. This article aims to explain the importance of mouthguards and how they shield your teeth from harm.

Understanding the Purpose of a Mouth Guard

Mouth guards, also known as sports guards, night guards, or occlusal splints, are dental appliances designed to cover and protect your teeth. These custom-fit devices act as a cushion, absorbing and dispersing the impact force, reducing the risk of dental injuries. Additionally, they can alleviate the effects of teeth grinding and jaw clenching, preventing further damage to your teeth and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Here are some ways in which a mouthguard help protect teeth: 

Protection Against Impact and Trauma

One of the primary functions of a mouth guard is to protect your teeth from impact and trauma. During sports activities or accidents, it acts as a shock absorber, distributing the force of a blow across the entire mouth, reducing the risk of broken teeth, lip injuries, and jaw fractures. Cushioning and providing a barrier can significantly minimize the chances of severe dental injuries.

Prevention of Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching

A mouth guard can provide immense relief for individuals who suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding) or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Creating a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth helps reduce the friction and pressure caused by grinding or clenching, thereby protecting the tooth enamel from wear and tear. It also helps alleviate muscle tension and jaw pain associated with these conditions.

Safeguarding Teeth During Sports Activities

Engaging in sports activities, especially contact sports, puts your teeth at risk of injury. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard can provide essential protection. It acts as a shield, absorbing and dispersing the impact force, preventing tooth fractures, avulsion (complete tooth displacement), and soft tissue injuries. Whether it’s football, basketball, or martial arts, a mouth guard is essential to ensure dental safety.

Different Types of Mouthguards

There are several types of mouthguards available in the market, including stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-made mouthguards. Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and come ready to wear, but they may not provide an ideal fit. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are softened in hot water and then molded to the shape of your teeth, offering a more customized fit. Custom-made mouth guards, created by dental professionals, provide the best fit and highest level of protection.

Proper Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance are crucial to maintain the effectiveness of your mouth guard and ensure its longevity. Rinse them with cold water or mouthwash before and after use. Brush it gently with a toothbrush and mild soap, and store it in a protective case when you are not using it. Regularly inspect them for any signs of wear or damage, and replace them as your dentist recommends.

Conclusion

Mouth guards are essential dental devices that protect your teeth from impact, trauma, and grinding. They provide a cushioning effect, reducing the risk of dental injuries during sports activities and preventing further damage from teeth grinding and jaw clenching. Remember to choose the right type of mouthguard for your specific needs and maintain it properly to ensure its effectiveness. By prioritizing using a mouth guard, you can take proactive steps to preserve your dental health and protect your beautiful smile.