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Family Dentistry

Dentist on Ridgeway in Coquitlam BC>Family Dentistry
burnaby dentures
Family Dentistry
January 6, 20180

Dentures / Prosthesis

Dentures are removable teeth that help replace missing teeth and the surrounding tissue. They come in two types: complete and partial. Complete dentures are effective when all teeth are missing while partial dentures can be used when there are still natural teeth that remain. Partial dentures not only fill in missing space caused by lost teeth, but they also prevent all other teeth from shifting.

If you want a quick and painless way to replace missing teeth, dentures are the way to go! Give our Coquitlam Dental Clinic a call and one of our dentists will walk you through the procedure. You have nothing to lose and only teeth to gain!

Dentures are extremely durable and can last for many years, but eventually, they might need to be repaired, adjusted, or replaced. This is because, just like your regular teeth, they need to be properly taken care of. Use a toothbrush with gentle bristles to carefully brush dentures, as well as make sure they are kept moist at all times when not in use. Keeping your dentures moist and your tongue and gums clean is important because of the harmful bacteria that can form otherwise.

Reasons for Dentures

  1. Enhancing your smile
  2. Removing or greatly diminishing speech issues caused by lack of teeth
  3. Improving chewing and digestion
  4. Tooth loss (both partial and total)

Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures

coquitlam bc dentures

  1. What should I expect on my first visit?

    Our Dentist’s goal during the first visit is to assess your condition to see if you’re a good candidate for dentures and give you a reasonable expectation of the function, appearance, and cost of those dentures. Our Coquitlam Dentists will perform an examination of your mouth as well as a general health assessment. They will ask if you’re under a Physician’s care or if you have any health conditions or allergies that may affect the denture process. Don’t worry, your information will not be shared with anyone and is taken in the strictest confidence. After the examination, our Dentist in Coquitlam will give you a detailed overview of the results you can expect from the new dentures, including an approximate cost.

  2. What is the average cost of dentures?

    Denture fees vary widely based on many factors including the complexity of your particular treatment and the time required to accomplish the treatment. The best way to determine the fees is to contact our Dentist on Ridgeway in Coquitlam, BC so we can discuss the payment and care you may need.

  3. What are the different types of dentures available?

    There are four main types of dentures to consider:

    Complete Dentures    :         When most people think of dentures, they tend to picture complete dentures, which are full replacements for all of your teeth. This can be a full set of either upper or lower teeth or a combined set for your entire mouth.
    Complete dentures have to be properly fitted for optimum comfort and can last 5 to 10 years given proper care. These can typically be made six months after tooth extraction, once your gums have had time to heal.

    Immediate Dentures:         Immediate dentures are put into place immediately after tooth extraction and are used as a temporary set while your bone and tissue stabilize following tooth extraction. There are a number of benefits to immediate dentures, although they may require frequent adjustments while your jaw heals into place.

    Overdentures    :         Overdentures are similar to complete dentures. The difference is that not all teeth are extracted and one or more natural teeth are used for support. This type of denture provides greater stabilization during chewing. Overdentures can be more costly than complete dentures and usually require more appointments to get them properly fitted in place.

    Partial Dentures    :         Partial dentures are designed to correct the gaps in your smile when only some of your teeth are missing. Metal attachments anchor the dentures to your natural teeth. Partial dentures maintain tooth alignment by preventing your remaining teeth from shifting. Partial dentures can also help you prevent further tooth loss due to decay or gum disease.

  4. When will I receive my dentures?

    The length of time it takes to receive a completed set of dentures depends on your individual condition. Our Dentists in Coquitlam will give you an estimate based on your individual situation. Our Coquitlam Dentists need time to ensure the new set is properly crafted and fitted, but they also understand your desire to have them fast, and they will do their best to balance these two factors.

  5. Do I have to wear denture adhesives?

    Dentures are custom-designed for a comfortable and good fit for you. As a result, they often don’t require the regular use of an adhesive. Poor-fitting dentures must be checked by our Ridgeway dentist as soon as possible to eliminate discomfort and the potential for irritation.

  6. Will the dentures fit properly?

    Our Coquitlam Dentists will skillfully assess your personal physical characteristics to create a pair of customized dentures that will support and protect your delicate gums; allow you to speak, chew and use your mouth naturally; blend in with existing teeth, and compliment your natural facial structure and characteristics. The base materials, tooth materials, and colors of teeth are all chosen based on the shape of your face, your natural complexion, and the presence of existing teeth, and are completely unique to you. Our Ridgeway Dentists are highly skilled craftsmen, and you can be sure your new dentures not only fit well but look natural, complimenting your existing facial features.

    Well crafted dentures are designed to feel as natural as possible in your mouth, however, there may be a brief adjustment period. Most patients find that after a week of continuous wear, the oral cavity has adjusted to the new teeth perfectly, although it can take a bit longer for others. Be patient and continue to wear your dentures. They will feel as if you’ve been wearing them forever in no time.

  7. When can I wear my dentures?

    This is personal preference, however, we recommend that you wear your dentures as much as possible. It is widely agreed upon that you should sleep without your dentures, however, if you choose to sleep with them it is important to keep your denture extremely clean.

    Remove them at least once a day and brush the tissues underlying the dentures with a soft toothbrush. This removes any plaque build up along with any food debris; it also stimulates the blood vessels which is an essential part of a healthy tissue.

  8. Will dentures affect the way I eat?

    Like anything new, you need time to adapt to your new denture. Chewing is one of the skills that need to be adapted when you receive either replacement dentures or you are first dentures. You can help yourself accommodate by taking smaller portions and chewing slowly and avoiding sticky or tough foods for a little while. You should soon see an improvement due to the new dentures being more efficient as the chewing surfaces have less wear.

  9. How do I care for my dentures?

    Whitening: It is not possible to whiten dentures like natural teeth because dentures are made of plastic. To minimize staining, properly clean your dentures daily to remove food and plaque bacteria. Brushing with a denture brush or soft toothbrush will prevent dentures from becoming permanently stained and keep your mouth healthy. Moisten the brush and apply a non-abrasive soap or denture paste (regular toothpaste is too abrasive). Brush every surface, inside and out, scrubbing gently. A variety of over-the-counter denture cleanser products may be safely used (by following the manufacturer’s instructions) to remove most stains. Do not use bleach on your dentures unless your dentist or prosthodontist gives you special instructions on using bleach. Dilute household bleach can be used to clean and disinfect your dentures, but don’t use bleach until you see your prosthodontist for instructions. More stubborn stains may require removal by your prosthodontist.

    Brushing    :     Do not brush your dentures with normal toothpaste. Toothpaste are designed to be used on teeth, and they often contain materials and chemicals that help whiten and strengthen teeth but may harm dentures, which are made of a very durable plastic. Even though the plastic is strong, it is not as strong as the enamel of teeth and may be scratched by using toothpaste to clean your dentures. You should use a dishwashing liquid and a special denture brush to clean your dentures by hand every day. After rinsing them thoroughly, soak your dentures in water-based cleaning solution overnight.

    Moreover, it is advisable to rinse your dentures and your mouth after every meal however at least once a day the dentures should be brushed to remove any plaque accumulation and food debris, and then use a denture soak. It is also advisable to brush your gums to remove any debris including any residual dental adhesive.

    Repairing broken dentures:     The best solution is to return to the prosthodontist who made your dentures and have the cracked denture repaired professionally. It may seem easy to fix, but it is important that the repair is done correctly to prevent problems with chewing and to avoid any sore spots. The prosthodontist also needs to check the denture and adjust it after it is repaired. The denture may be too old and may no longer fit closely to your gums, and you may need a new denture.

  10. What kind of denture cleaner should I use?

    There are many brands of denture cleaners on the market and what brand to use is usually down to personal preference. However, it should be noted that household bleach and everyday toothpaste can harm the denture. If you notice a lot a tartar or plaque buildup you may also use white vinegar to soak your dentures and then brush off any residual build up.

    Remember that you can have your denture professionally cleaned by your friendly Coquitlam Dentist at Ridgeway in a matter of minutes.

  11. How often should I visit my Denturist after getting my dentures?

    You should have a check-up with our Dentist at Ridgeway Dental once a year for an optimal performance of your dentures. During this annual visit, our Dentist can spot any issues or abnormalities that need to be taken care of, and they can recommend you to a specialist should you require further medical attention.

burnaby dental fillings
Family Dentistry
August 31, 20170

Composite Fillings

burnaby composite fillings

At Ridgeway Dental in Coquitlam, BC, we do not advocate for the use of amalgam fillings. As such, our Coquitlam Dental Clinic only uses composite fillings, which are a mixture of tooth-colored plastic and glass, to restore teeth. Since composite fillings are colored, our dentist in Coquitlam can more easily match the color of the existing teeth. The aesthetics of this can be easily appreciated in the front teeth area. Composite fillings are very durable and can last many years, however, they are not permanent and will eventually need to be replaced.

How long do they last?

With more durable resin material available for only a decade, resins haven’t stood the test of time in teeth where grinding and chewing result in heavy wear; by contrast, the durability of amalgam fillings is well documented — the average life span of amalgams is 8 to 10 years, but many last 20 years or more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Composite Fillings

burnaby bc dental fillings

1. What are the advantages of composite fillings?

Most of our patients in Coquitlam who choose composite fillings do so because of the cosmetic benefits. Our friendly dentists can create a filling that is personalized to the shade of your teeth, so your fillings will blend seamlessly into your smile. Like all fillings, composites protect your teeth after decay is removed to prevent breakage of the remaining tooth structure. These fillings also help to prevent sensitivity that can occur after the decayed portion of the tooth is removed.

2. What are the disadvantages?

After receiving a composite, a patient may experience post-operative sensitivity. Also, the shade of the composite can change slightly if you drink tea, coffee or other staining foods. As a remedy, our Dentist can put a clear plastic coating over the composite to prevent the color from changing if you are particularly concerned about tooth color.

3. Why should we choose composite fillings over metal fillings?

The most obvious answer is your appearance. All-white fillings will not compromise your gorgeous smile. Another benefit of composite fillings is that they require less removal of healthy, tooth structure, allowing for more conservative restorations.

4. How can I know if composite fillings are for me?

There are various factors to consider when choosing a material for your fillings. Patients with composites may also be more prone to post-treatment sensitivity. Composite fillings can be stained by coffee, tea, red wine, and other staining foods, and the fillings will not respond to teeth whitening treatments. However, our Coquitlam Dentist can put a protective coating on your fillings to reduce staining if this is a concern.

5. What is the cost of composite fillings?

Prices vary, but composite fillings average about one-and-a-half to two times the price of a silver filling. Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of the composite up to the price of a silver filling, with the patient paying the difference.

Not sure if your insurance company will cover it? Give Dentist on Ridgeway in Coquitlam a call and we’ll find out for you.

6. What is the process of composite fillings?

Following preparation, the composite is placed in layers, using a light specialized to harden each layer. When the process is finished, the composite is shaped to fit the tooth. It is then polished the composite to prevent staining and early wear.

7. How long does it take to get a composite filling?

There are many factors that can determine just how long it will take to get a composite filling, including the size of a cavity or fracture, its location, and how many fillings you need. Patients should be prepared to sit in the dentist’s chair for up to one hour or more for a filling.

8. Can my old fillings be replaced by composite fillings?

Many people opt to remove metal fillings and replace them with composites for purely aesthetic reasons. If your old repair starts to crack or leak, you should definitely have the filling updated.

9. Can you eat after a composite filling?

Unlike amalgam fillings, composite fillings allow patients to eat right after getting the procedure. However, our dentists do recommend that patients only resume eating after the local anesthetic wears off. It can be quite difficult to eat when your lips and mouth are numb! Plus, you do not want to run the risk of accidentally biting your lip, cheek, or tongue. While composite fillings are very strong, you should probably opt out of chewing anything too crunchy, hard, or sticky right after getting the procedure.

10. How to make your composite fillings last longer?

Many patients see their composite fillings lasting for about ten years. But if you take really great care of your fillings, they may be able to last you longer than that — and even a lifetime! In order to help your composite fillings last longer, you should always see your resident Coquitlam dentist at Ridgeway Dental twice a year for regular dental cleanings and exams, brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, and eat a variety of healthy food to boost your oral health.

burnaby oral surgery
Family Dentistry
August 31, 20170

Oral Surgery

burnaby-oral-surgery

Any procedure that involves cutting into or removing tissue from your mouth, tooth extraction, or installing a dental implant is considered oral surgery. This type of surgery is used to treat many problems in the areas of the face, jaw, neck, and the hard and soft tissues of the mouth.

Usually, our Coquitlam Dentist will remove a tooth if it appears to be broken, infected, loose, or impacted. After taking a dental x-ray and examining the problem area, our Dentist in Coquitlam will decide which type of extraction is needed. Of course, other options are available if tooth removal is unwanted.

Reasons for Extractions

  1. Trauma to the mouth
  2. Badly damaged tooth or teeth
  3. Crowded mouth
  4. Caved or infected tooth or teeth

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Surgery

burnaby dental oral surgery

1. Who will need an oral surgery?

Oral surgical procedures involve the incision, excision, or reflection of tissue that exposes the normally sterile areas of the oral cavity. Examples are biopsy, periodontal surgery, apical surgery, dental implant surgery, and surgical extractions of teeth (removal of erupted or nonerupted tooth requiring elevation of the mucoperiosteal flap, removal of bone or section of tooth, and suturing if needed).

2. Who will need periodontal surgery?

Periodontal or “gum” surgery is needed when conservative non-surgical treatments are ineffective in completely eradicating the periodontal disease. Luckily, periodontal surgery is a very simple and extremely effective technique to treat advanced periodontal problems.

3. What is apical surgery?

Apical surgery is considered a standard oral surgical procedure. It is often the last resort to surgically maintain a tooth with a periapical lesion that cannot be managed with conventional endodontic (re-)treatment. The main goal of apical surgery is to prevent bacterial leakage from the root-canal system into the periradicular tissues by placing a tight root-end filling following root-end resection. A major step in apical surgery is to identify possible leakage areas at the cut root face and subsequently to ensure adequate root-end filling. Only a tight and persistent apical obturation will allow periapical healing with good long-term prognosis.

4. When do I need a surgical extraction of teeth?

If a more volatile tooth has yet to grow in, however, our Ridgeway Dentist needs to remove gum tissue or bone in order to extract it. This is called a surgical extraction and requires stitches to close the site so that it can heal properly.  If a tooth breaks off during the procedure, for instance, it may need to be taken out in pieces. Wisdom teeth often face surgical extraction because they are usually impacted, meaning they are not completely erupted into the mouth. This condition requires cutting through bone and tissue. Removing severely broken down teeth, root tips or teeth with long-curved roots are other examples of surgical extractions. Then there are times when the bone around a tooth has become dense, resulting in the need for surgical treatment.

5. What will happen during my procedure?

Our Coquitlam Dentist will explain how they plan to perform your surgery. Without having to get into too many specifics, you will know where your incision is being made, and any other details about what the procedure entails and what the goal is.

6. Do I need to be sedated during my oral surgery instead of the local anesthesia?

Our Dentist in Coquitlam will request in-depth past medical history before a patient can be sedated. Not all patients are able to be sedated. Patients who are anxious, nervous, or scared of dental visits may request sedation for a variety of dental care from a regular cleaning to wisdom teeth extractions. However, there may be other techniques to help a patient receive the necessary dental treatment in a safe and comfortable manner.

7. How long will the procedure take?

It depends on which oral surgery that our dentist consulted you to take. It could be from one hour to four hours or more. Ask our Dentist on Ridgeway Dental for more details to suit your schedule.

8. How long is the recovery?

It depends on the kind of oral surgery. Wisdom teeth extraction usually takes a few days to one week for the pain and swelling to subside. The gums can take up to a month to completely heal. Our Coquitlam Dentist will recommend a soft diet for a few days and provide detailed recovery instructions, such as how to deal with discomfort and swelling. Dental implants also require some healing time and this varies from patient to patient and procedure to procedure.

9. What food should I eat and avoid after surgery?

For 2 days after surgery, drink liquids and eat soft foods only. Such as milkshakes, eggnog, yogurt, cooked cereals, cottage cheese, smooth soups, mashed potatoes, refried beans, ice cream, pudding, fruit smoothies and protein shakes. On day 3 after surgery, eat soft foods that do not require much chewing, such as macaroni and cheese, cooked noodles, soft-boiled /scrambled/ poached eggs and soft sandwiches. Avoid tough or crunchy foods, such as pizza, rice, popcorn, and hamburger. Avoid spicy and acidic foods. Most patients may resume their normal diet 7 days after surgery.

10. What should not you do after oral surgery?

  • Do not apply heat to your face, unless your surgeon told you to do so.
  • Heat can increase swelling.
  • Do not use straws, suck on anything, or smoke.
  • These actions cause negative pressure in your mouth, which can dislodge the blood clot that is keeping your wound closed, causing more bleeding, and delay your healing.
  • Do not blow your nose. Wipe instead.  If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open.
root canal in burnaby
Family Dentistry
August 31, 20170

Root Canal

burnaby dental root canal

When the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or an infection, a root canal procedure is necessary. But don’t worry, our Coquitlam Dentists have successfully completed hundreds of root canals over the years. In order to ensure tooth survival, the living tissue inside the tooth known as the pulp will have to be removed along with the nerves, bacteria, and overall decay. The empty space is then filled with medicated dental materials, specially designed to restore the tooth to full functionality.

Having a root canal performed is the best treatment for saving an infected tooth that would otherwise wither away and die on its own. Many patients believe that removing a tooth is the only way to fix a problem. Not only is this untrue, but removing a tooth can end up being more expensive than other procedures because the infection might spread to adjacent teeth. Root canals are very successful and in most cases, last a lifetime. If there are any new infections that form, the tooth can easily retreat.

Reasons for a Root Canal

  1. Swelling or tenderness
  2. Heat and cold sensitivity
  3. Severe toothache (worse with pressure)
  4. Presence of an abscess (round bump) on the gums

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal

1. What is a Root Infection and How Do I Know If I Have One?

When the bottom section (below the gum) of a tooth develops a cavity, either through decay or a fracture, this gap quickly fills up with nasty bacteria. This is very bad for the health of teeth and gums and puts a great strain on surrounding tissues. If left untreated, it can cause tooth loss, bone degeneration, and gum disease.

The symptoms of a root infection can sometimes be very easy to spot and a little trickier at other times. In fact, you really do not want the symptoms to be too obvious because if they are, you likely have an abscess. This is a very painful condition and it only occurs if a dental problem has been allowed to deteriorate.

In some cases, root infections may present mild pain, but to make sure that they are spotted early, keep up with regular dentist appointments. That way, a root canal can be scheduled before any irreversible damage is done to the pulp inside the affected tooth. This will give you a very high chance of being able to keep it. On the other hand, if the infection has been allowed to fester for too long, the tooth may need to be extracted.

2. Is it expensive?

Saving your tooth through endodontic treatment is less expensive and less invasive than an extraction and replacement with a bridge or implant. The cost will depend on your dental insurance coverage. Our dental professionals will help with getting your insurance information and let you know the cost of your root canal.

3. How long does the repaired tooth last?

Potentially, the repaired tooth lasts a lifetime! If the patient has a good oral care routine and visits the dentist twice a year for cleanings and exams, the restored tooth should have a long life.

4. What is a root canal procedure?

During root canal treatment, the tooth pulp and tooth roots are cleaned to remove microbes that cause infection, and a filling material is placed in the roots.

The procedure is performed when the tooth pulp has become infected (a condition is known as pulpitis) or when the infection has spread to the roots or jawbone.

Microbes and infected tissue are removed from the pulp and roots using special needles and chemical rinsing substances. After the tooth has been disinfected, a filling material is placed in the root canal.

5. What problems and pain can occur due to the root canal procedure?

Root canal treatment usually requires multiple relatively long visits (30-90 minutes per visit). The mouth has to be kept open during the treatment, and as a result, jaw joints and the muscles that keep the mouth open often get tired.

Local anesthesia used in dental procedures is effective in preventing root canal pain during the treatment. It may not work properly in rare cases, such as when the infection has spread widely and caused changes in the acidity of the surrounding tissue.

Sometimes, teeth become discolored and turn dark or grey following a root canal treatment. This discoloration is caused by bleeding inside the tooth or by the filling material used in the procedure. Discolored teeth can be whitened.

6. What can I do if root canal therapy doesn’t work?

At times, a root canal won’t be able to save your tooth. One of the best alternatives to root canal therapy is a tooth extraction. If your dentist recommends this dental procedure, you will also need a tooth implant or dental bridge in order to restore full functionality of your mouth and smile.

7. Should I be worried about X-rays?

No. While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontic treatment, we use an advanced non-film computerized system called digital radiography that produces radiation levels up to 90 percent lower than those of already low dose conventional dental x-ray machinery.

8. Is there any other method to reduce my anxiety besides local anesthesia?

We are very sensitive to the fact that, no matter how well-informed you are about the procedure, you may still experience anxiety. Protecting your oral health is our top priority, and we don’t want you to forgo treatment because you’re fearful about the procedure. In that case we offer sedation options that will calm you so that you can get the treatment you need.

9. How will I feel after a root canal?

Your tooth may feel a little sensitive after the procedure, but you’ll finally be out of pain! If you’re experiencing soreness or sensitivity, you can take over-the-counter medications.

10. Will the tooth need any special care or additional treatment?

After your root canal procedure, you should be careful not to bite or chew on the treated tooth until it has recovered. We encourage all patients to practice good daily oral care that includes flossing and brushing.

dental crowns in burnaby
Family Dentistry
August 31, 20170

Crowns and Bridges

Dental Crown: a crown is a surface cap that encases the entire tooth, thus restoring it to its original shape and size. Crowns protect the tooth and strengthen its structure; no other type of restoration is able to do this. Although several types of crowns exist, porcelain is the most popular because their color resembles natural teeth the most. Crowns are made to match the size, shape, and color of natural teeth. They are highly durable and last many years, however, they are not a permanent solution and will eventually need to be replaced.

A procedure by our Coquitlam Dentist at Ridgeway Dental for a crown generally takes 2 appointments to complete. Patients undergoing the procedure commonly experience tooth sensitivity, gum soreness, and general teeth discomfort. After a permanent crown is placed, these symptoms should disappear.

While a temporary crown is in place, you should avoid eating sticky or hard food. Since a temporary crown is a placeholder and is only made of plastic or soft metal, it is easy for it to become dislodged. Once the permanent crown is in place, you may feel pressure for several days, and biting might feel a bit different. If these feelings persist for more than two days, contact the office immediately.

Reasons for Dental Crowns

  1. Root canal in the tooth
  2. Decayed or broken teeth
  3. Fractured fillings
  4. Cosmetic enhancement

Bridges: Dental bridges “bridge” the gap between one or more missing teeth in order to reduce the appearance of inconsistency in the mouth. Bridges are made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap with false teeth in between. They are cemented into the mouth by the dentist but can be easily removed if necessary. If the patient does not want a bridge for whatever reason, there are other options available, such as placing an implant in the space of the missing tooth/teeth.

Reasons for Dental Bridges

  1. Replace a missing tooth
  2. Restore your smile to normalcy
  3. Prevent remaining teeth from shifting
  4. Maintain shape and integrity of the face

Frequently Asked Questions About Crowns and Bridges

1. Will people be able to tell if I have a dental crown or bridge?

coquitlam dental crowns

Today’s crowns and bridges are made of natural-looking composite materials that make them virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

2. How Long Will My Dental Crowns Last?

Both dental crowns and bridges will last a good long while, though how long depends on a few factors. Good oral health requires you to brush and floss on a regular basis because oral hygiene should be your number one priority if you want the procedures to last and be effective in the long run.

You also need to avoid eating unhealthy foods that have a hard surface because it might damage the crown or bridge. Avoid sticky foods to prevent decay and your crown or bridge should last from five to fifteen years.

3. How are dental crowns placed on teeth?

coquitlam dental crowns

Dental Crown placement is typically completed in two visits. First, we will remove a thin layer of enamel coating and shape the tooth to provide room for the crown. This process allows the crown to be placed without crowding neighboring teeth or creating an uneven bite. Then we make an impression of the teeth, which is sent to an on-site lab where the crowns will be made from the most advanced materials for long-lasting durability.

Our dentist will fit a temporary crown, which is crafted from resin, to protect your tooth while the permanent crown is being made. At the second visit, the temporary crown will be removed and the tooth will be carefully cleaned before the permanent crown is applied using a strong adhesive.

4. Some people having Crowns with black, darkened lines in between their gums and teeth. Are they cause by Crown or Bridges?

coquitlam bad dental crowns

The newer all porcelain crowns are an esthetic improvement over older, porcelain fused to metal crowns as if the gumline would recede, the older crowns often showed a metal edge to the crown that originally was hidden from view. Since all porcelain crowns have no metal, no markings are evident if the gum line recedes.

5. If having a root canal and it is quite discolored, can Porcelain Crown be the best approach?

If a tooth that requires root canal therapy discolors, it is an indication that the nerve inside the tooth had died and blood pigments have broken down and been absorbed into the calcified tooth structure. By placing an all ceramic porcelain crown on the tooth, it can restore the tooth to match its neighbors.

6. Should I replace my old dental crowns?

If your crowns are worn down or damaged, give us a call so that we can plan replacements. We may need to remove the crown and provide you with a new temporary crown until your new permanent crowns are complete.

If you’ve had your crowns for several years, you may be troubled by their aesthetics. Older materials used to create crowns were not as natural-looking and lifelike as today’s modern crowns. Metal crowns and porcelain-fused-to-metal may be a giveaway that you’ve had dental work done, and we completely understand that you want your smile to look its best.

We are happy to examine your teeth and provide a recommendation as to whether your crowns should be replaced. Give our Ridgeway Dental Office in Coquitlam, BC a call to schedule your evaluation.

7. Which foods should avoid for not damaging your Bridges?

Patients fitted with dental bridges are advised by our Coquitlam Dentists to avoid chewing extensively on foods such as raw vegetables, hard candies, and ice. These foods can cause damage to the bridge, which may require replacement if it cannot be repaired.

8. How many types of Dental Bridges?

coquitlam dental bridges

There are three types of dental bridges:

  1. Traditional Fixed Bridge: A dental bridge is a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is fused between two porcelain crowns to fill in the area left by a missing tooth. This is known as a fixed bridge. This procedure is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Fixed bridges cannot be taken out of your mouth as you might do with removable partial dentures.
  2. Resin Bonded Bridges: The resin bonded bridge is primarily used for your front teeth. Less expensive, this bridge is best used when the abutment teeth are healthy and don’t have large fillings. The false tooth is fused to bands that are bonded to the abutment teeth with a resin which is hidden from view. This type of bridge reduces the amount of preparation on the adjacent teeth.
  3. Cantilever Bridges: In areas of your mouth that are under less stress, such as your front teeth, a cantilever bridge may be used. Cantilever bridges are used when there are teeth on only one side of the open space. This procedure involves anchoring the false tooth to one side over one or more natural and adjacent teeth.

9. Which foods should avoid with a temporary dental crown?

Because temporary crowns are made from acrylic, which is less strong than the metal, ceramic or porcelain material of a permanent crown, you must take extra precautions. Limit the amount of chewing you do on the side of your mouth where your temporary crown is located. Avoid chewing on hard candies, nuts and very crunchy fresh vegetables such as carrots on the same side of the mouth as your temporary crown. Until your permanent crown is in place, don’t eat sticky desserts or candy, including caramels, licorice, jelly beans, taffy, toffee and gummy bears, as they could pull the temporary crown off your tooth. Avoid chewing gum for the same reason.

10. Which foods should avoid for permanent dental crowns?

  • Hot foods: Some individuals experience a mild-to-severe sensitivity in and around a crowned tooth when eating hot foods, particularly if they are affected by gum recession. If the problem persists, consult your dentist as the crown’s fit may require adjustment.
  • Cold foods: Although they do not harm your crown, such foods can trigger sensitivity similar to that caused by hot foods if any part of your gum recedes enough to expose the root above a crowned tooth. Your dentist may suggest that you use a toothpaste made especially for sensitive teeth; such toothpaste work by blocking the sensation traveling from the tooth to the nerves.
    Sugary foods: Avoid constant exposure to sugary drinks, candy or gum, keep snacking to a minimum, and brush or rinse your teeth after eating chewy or sticky foods such as dried fruit.

11. How do I care for my dental crowns and dental bridges?

It is important to maintain excellent oral hygiene, making sure to brush and floss twice a day. Avoid biting on hard foods like nuts and candy that can potentially fracture the restoration.