As with any surgery, there is always a risk. Your dentist will discuss with you specific risks related to anesthesia and potential complications from excessive bleeding. It is important to note that dental surgery is safer today than it has ever been.

Q. What’s involved in dental implantation?

Implantation is a lengthy procedure, typically done under anesthesia. It involves the implanting of the anchor into the jaw and then a healing process which could take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months depending on how quickly you heal.

Once the gums have healed, x-rays, impressions and bite records may be required to get your new teeth (which have been made and fitted to the posts) to properly fit your individual jaw and mouth.

Q. Will my teeth feel natural?

Dental implants are specifically designed to feel like your own teeth. They are generally constructed in a way that they are similar to your own teeth and once fused to your jaw they do feel snug. They are generally more comfortable and fit more securely than other types of tooth replacement.

Q. What are veneers?

Typically made of porcelain to give the same light characteristics of your own tooth enamel, a veneer is used to cover stains and discoloration, or to correct gaps, chips or misshapen teeth. They are custom made and bonded to the front of the teeth.

Q. What do bridges do?

A bridge is fixed partial denture that is used to maintain facial structure and reduce stress caused on the jaw using natural looking tooth replacements for teeth that are missing.

Q. Can I take my bridge out and clean it?

Like crowns and caps, a fixed bridge cannot be removed for cleaning. There are however removable bridges that can be taken from the mouth for cleaning.

Q. Are bridges always made of metal?

Bridges are made from a variety of materials including alloys, porcelain, gold or even by using a combination of materials. We will work with you to determine which bridge is most suitable for your needs.

Q. What are crowns used for?

If you have a severely stained tooth, a broken or otherwise misshapen tooth, crowns can be used to strengthen or repair them. If you have irregularly shaped teeth, crowns can help give your teeth a more uniform appearance. They are also helpful in supporting teeth that have large fillings.

Q. What does in-office whitening or bleaching involve?

Depending on the method that we determine is best suited for your needs, we will schedule one or more one hour appointments in our office. The first part of a good whitening (or bleaching) is making sure your teeth are healthy enough to withstand the bleaching process. This will include checking for loose fillings, cavities and gum problems which could become worse if we perform the bleaching process.

We will then make a custom fit tray for your teeth (which you will take home with you for follow ups) then apply a bleaching gel to your teeth after protecting the gums. For about one hour your teeth will be exposed to a high intensity light to speed the process along.

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