Fixed Teeth Replacement
It is IMPORTANT to consult Dentplan
Dental Surgeons, prosthodontist, in case
of unfortunate occurence to your teeth.
This ensures a reduction of inmpact on
your entire mouth. If the situation is not
corrected in advance, missing teeth can
allow the surrounding teeth to become
displaced.
By taking care of dental problems
immediately, you minimize the risk of
future problems.
Ensure you have crowns fix to protect
teeth that are so damaged or diseased
that they need more support than a
simple filling.
Bridges replace missing teeth and offer
support for the surrounding teeth to help
retain the integrity of the jaw and face
structure.
Dental Crowns
Crowns(caps), restore damaged teeth and
mimics the shape, size and color of the
surrounding teeth. Crowns are indicated
for cracked teeth and teeth with deep
cavities; to protect teeth that have been
filled by root-canal treatment; to provide
extra support for bridges; and to cover
poorly shaped or discolored teeth.
Crowns may be made of metal, porcelain,
or newer restorative materials like metal
free ceramics. They are custom-made and
fitted for each patient in conformation
with the size and length of the natural
teeth. Crowns have a life span of five to
eight years, but can last much longer with
proper oral hygiene. Crowns can be made
of a variety of materials. They can be
made of plastic, ceramic or metal alloys.
A combination of metal and ceramic is
also possible to maximize strength and
simulate the appearance of natural teeth.
The teeth to be crowned are prepared
which involves reduction of the tooth size
(usually under local anaesthesia) followed
by an impression or mould of the
prepared tooth. This trimming of the
tooth is required to create space for the
crown to be fitted. The mould taken is
then sent to a laboratory where skilled
technicians will fabricate the crown. In
the meanwhile, a temporary crown is
made and fitted onto the trimmed tooth.
Dental Bridges
Bridge stabilizes the bite of a patient who
is missing one or more teeth. They
prevent the surrounding teeth from
moving or shifting in the mouth. A
missing tooth that is not replaced may
cause surrounding teeth to become
unstable and require removal,
compromising oral health or change the
shape of the face and diminish the beauty
of a smile.
Bridges are permanent hence patients
need not remove them. The missing
tooth is replaced with an artificial tooth
connected between two crowns (caps),
which are permanently cemented or
bonded on the adjacent teeth.
Bridges can be used to replace a small
number of missing teeth if the
neighboring teeth are sufficiently strong.
The number of missing teeth, condition of
the neighboring teeth, condition of the
supporting gums and bone are all
important factors which need to be
assessed prior to making a bridge.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root
that is palced into your jaw to hold a
replacement tooth or bridge.
They are an ideal option for people who
have lost a tooth or teeth due to
periodontal disease, failure of
endodontics, an injury, or some other
reason.
Dental implants are actually more tooth-
saving than traditional bridgework, since
implants do not rely on neighboring teeth
for support.
Why opt for Dental Implants
*They can easily replace one or more
teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
*They support a bridge and eliminate the
need for a removable partial denture.
*Provide support for a denture, making it
more secure and comfortable.
Advantages of Dental Implants Over
Dentures or a Bridge
Dental implants are a better solution to
the problem of missing teeth.
*Reliable: They are considered an
excellent option for tooth replacement.
*Esthetic: Dental implants integrate into
the structure of your bone, they prevent
the bone loss and gum recession that
often accompany bridgework and
dentures. They are a semblance of your
natural teeth
*Tooth-saving: Neighboring teeth are not
altered to support the implant. More of
your own teeth are left untouched, hence
a significant long-term benefit to your oral
health!
*Confidence: Dental implants will allow
you to once again speak and eat with
comfort and confidence! They’ll allow you
to say goodbye to worries about displaced
dentures and messy denture adhesives.
When to opt for Dental Implants
Replacing Several Teeth: If you are
missing several teeth, implant-supported
bridges can replace them. Dental
implants will replace both your lost
natural teeth and some of the roots.
Replacing All of Your Teeth: If you are
missing all of your teeth, an implant-
supported full bridge or full denture can
replace them. Dental implants will
replace both your lost natural teeth and
some of the roots
Tooth Sensitivty
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Sensitive teeth occur when the underlying
layer of your teeth — the dentin —
becomes exposed as a result of receding
gum tissue (the protective blanket that
covers the tooth roots). The roots, which
are not covered by hard enamel, contain
thousands of tiny tubules leading to the
tooth’s nerve center (the pulp). These
dentinal tubules (or channels) allow the
stimuli — for example, the hot, cold, or
sweet food — to reach the nerve in your
tooth, which results in the pain you feel.
There are many factors that may lead to
sensitive teeth, including.
Brushing too hard. Over time, brushing
too hard or using a hard-bristled
toothbrush can wear down enamel and
cause the dentin to be exposed. It can
also cause recession of the gums (the
gum tissue pulls away from the teeth).
Tooth decay near the gum line.
Recession of the gums. As gums move
away from a tooth due to conditions such
as periodontal disease, the root surface
becomes exposed.
Gum disease (gingivitis) . Inflamed and
sore gum tissue may cause sensitivity due
to the loss of supporting ligaments, which
exposes the root surface that leads
directly to the nerve of the tooth.
Cracked teeth. Chipped or broken teeth
may fill with bacteria from plaque and
enter the pulp causing Inflammation.
Teeth grinding . Grinding or clenching
your teeth may wear down the enamel
and expose underlying dentin.
Tooth whitening products. These
products may be major contributors to
sensitive teeth.
Your age. Tooth sensitivity is highest
between the ages of 25 and 30.
Plaque build-up. The presence of plaque
on the root surfaces can cause sensitivity.
Mouthwash use. Long-term use of some
mouthwashes. Some over-the-counter
mouthwashes contain acids that can
worsen tooth sensitivity if you have
exposed dentin (the middle layer of the
tooth). The acids further damage the
dentin layer of the tooth. If you have
dentin sensitivity, ask your dentist about
the use of a neutral fluoride solution.
Acidic foods. Regular consumption of
foods with a high acid content, such as
citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and tea,
can cause enamel erosion.
Recent routine dental procedures.
Sensitivity can occur following teeth
cleaning, root planing, crown placement,
and tooth restoration. Sensitivity caused
by dental procedures is temporary,
usually disappearing in four to six weeks.
What Can I Do to Reduce Tooth
Sensitivity?
Some steps you can take to prevent tooth
sensitivity include:
Maintain good oral hygiene. Continue
to follow proper brushing and flossing
techniques to thoroughly clean all parts of
your teeth and mouth.
Use a soft bristled toothbrush. This will
result in less toothbrush abrasion to the
tooth surface and less irritation to your
gums. Brush gently and carefully around
the gum line so you do not remove more
gum tissue.
Use desensitizing toothpaste. There are
several brands of toothpaste available for
sensitive teeth. With regular use you
should notice a decrease in sensitivity.
You may need to try several different
brands to find the product that works
best for you. Another tip. spread a thin
layer of the toothpaste on the exposed
tooth roots with your finger or a Q-tip
before you go to bed. Do not use a tartar
control toothpaste; rather, use a
fluoridated toothpaste.
Watch what you eat. Frequent
consumption of highly acid foods can
gradually dissolve tooth enamel and lead
to dentin exposure. They may also
aggravate the sensitivity and start the
pain reaction.
Use fluoridated dental products. Daily
use of a fluoridated mouth rinse can
decrease sensitivity. Ask your dentist
about available products for home use.
Avoid teeth grinding. If you grind or
clench your teeth, use a mouth guard at
night.
See your dentist at regular intervals.
Get professional tooth cleaning, oral
hygiene instructions, and fluoride
treatments every six months (or sooner
depending on your condition).
If you still have discomfort, talk to your
dentist.
Bad Breath
Bad breath is breath that has an
unpleasant odor, otherwise known as
halitosis. This odor can occur from time to
time, or it can be long lasting, depending
on the cause.
Millions of bacteria live in the mouth,
particularly on the back of the tongue.
In many people, the primary causes of
bad breath is the bacteria leaving in the
mouth, particularly below the tongue,
necessitated by the mouth’s warm, moist
conditions favoring growth of these
bacteria. Most bad breath is caused by
something in the mouth.
Some types of bad breath are considered
to be fairly normal. They usually are not
health concerns. One example is
“morning mouth.” This occurs because of
changes in your mouth while you sleep.
During the day, saliva washes away
decaying food and odors. The body makes
less saliva at night. Your mouth becomes
dry, and dead cells stick to your tongue
and to the inside of your cheeks. When
bacteria use these cells for food, they
produce a foul odor.
Other causes of bad breath:
Poor dental hygiene – Infrequent or
improper brushing and flossing, allows
bits of food that are stuck between the
teeth to decay inside the mouth. Poor
oral hygiene eventually will lead to
periodontal (gum) disease, which also can
cause bad breath.
Infections in the mouth- These can be
caused by either a cavity in a tooth or by
periodontal (gum) disease.
Respiratory tract infections – Throat,
sinus or lung infections
External source- Garlic, onions, coffee,
cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco.
Smoking and drinking coffee, tea and/or
red wine will contribute to your teeth
becoming discolored.
Dry mouth (xerostomia)- This can be
caused by salivary gland problems,
medicines or “mouth breathing.” A large
number of prescriptions and over the
counter medicines cause dry mouth.
Illnesses- Diabetes, liver disease, kidney
disease, lung disease, sinus disease, reflux
disease and others
Psychiatric illness- Some people may
believe they have bad breath, but others
do not notice it. This is referred to as
“pseudohalitosis.”
Symptoms
You may not always know that you have
bad breath. That’s because odor-
detecting cells in the nose eventually get
used to the smell. Other people may
notice and react by stepping away from
you as you speak, or making a face.
Other symptoms depend on the
underlying cause of bad breath:
Infections in the mouth- Symptoms
depend on the type of infection. They can
include:
*Red or swollen gums that may bleed
easily, especially after brushing or flossing
*Pus between teeth or a pocket of pus
(abscess) at the base of a tooth
*Loose teeth or a change in how a
denture fits
*Painful, open sores on the tongue or
gums
Respiratory tract infections- Symptoms
may include:
*Sore throat
*Swollen lymph nodes (“swollen glands”)
in the neck
*Fever
*Stuffy nose
*A greenish or yellowish discharge from
the nose
*A cough that produces mucus
Dry mouth- Symptoms may include:
Difficulty swallowing dry foods
Difficulty speaking for a long time because
of mouth dryness
Burning in the mouth
An unusually high number of cavities
Dry eyes (in Sjogren’s syndrome)
Illnesses- Symptoms of diabetes, lung
disease, kidney failure or liver disease
Diagnosis
*A dentist or physician may notice bad
breath during an office visit. Sometimes,
the smell of the patient’s breath may
suggest a likely cause for the problem.
For example, “fruity” breath may be a
sign of uncontrolled diabetes. A urine-like
smell, especially in a person who is at
high risk of kidney disease, can
sometimes indicate kidney failure.
*Your dentist will review your medical
history for conditions that can cause bad
breath and for medicines that can cause
dry mouth. Your dentist also will ask you
about your diet, personal habits (smoking,
chewing tobacco) and any symptoms. He
or she also will ask who noticed the bad
breath and when.
*Your dentist will examine your teeth,
gums, mouth and salivary glands. He or
she also will feel your head and neck and
will evaluate your breath when you
exhale from your nose and from your
mouth.
*Your dentist may refer you to your
family physician if an illness is the most
likely cause. In severe cases of gum
disease, your dentist may suggest that
you see a periodontist (dentist who
specializes in gum problems).
*You will need diagnostic tests if the
doctor suspects a lung infection, diabetes,
kidney disease, liver disease or Sjogren’s
syndrome. The type of tests you get
depends on the suspected illness. You
may get blood tests, urine tests, X-rays of
the chest or sinuses, or other tests.
When Do I call a professional?
Call your dentist promptly if you have bad
breath with loose teeth or painful,
swollen gums that bleed easily. Also, call
your doctor if you have bad breath along
with any of the following symptoms:
*Fever
*Sore throat
*Postnasal drip
*Discolored nasal discharge
*Cough that produces mucus
Even if you have none of these
symptoms, call your dentist or physician if
your bad breath continues despite a good
diet and proper dental hygiene.
Sometimes bad breath can be a sign that
a medical condition needs attention right
away. If you have diabetes,
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or
chronic liver or kidney disease, ask your
doctor what bad breath may mean for
your condition.
Brushing Technique
There are a number of effective brushing
techniques. Patients are advised to check
with their dentist or hygienist to
determine which technique is best for
them, since tooth position and gum
condition vary. One effective, easy-to-
remember technique involves using a
circular or elliptical motion to brush a
couple of teeth at a time, gradually
covering the entire mouth.
Place a toothbrush beside your teeth at a
45-degree angle and gently brush teeth in
an elliptical motion. Brush the outside of
the teeth, inside the teeth, your tongue,
the chewing surfaces and between teeth.
Using a back-and-forth motion causes the
gum surface to recede,can expose the
root surface or make the root surface
tender. You also risk wearing down the
gum line.
Bone Grafting
Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)
These are the procedures that attempt to
regenerate lost periodontal structures
that support our teeth. This is
accomplished using biocompatible
membranes, often in combination with
bone grafts and/or tissue stimulating
proteins.
Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR)
This refers to procedures that attempt to
regenerate bone prior to the placement
of bridges or, more commonly, implants.
This is accomplished using bone grafts and
biocompatible membranes that keep out
tissue and allow the bone to grow.
We have great techniques available to us
to replace missing bone. We can increase
bothe the width and height of bone. We
can fill in anatomical voids in bone
thereby creating new bone and we can fill
in all sorts of defects that develop when
teeth are lost. We can even use grafting
techniques to prevent the loss of bone in
circumstances where bone would
normally be lost like the extraction of a
tooth.
Braces
*Braces are considered to be the most
efficient and accurate way of moving
teeth.
*They are usually made of stainless steel
*Clear brackets for braces are available,
usually at extra cost.
Fitting Braces
Usually, there are two visits in the
process of fitting braces.
It is recommended that the braces
remain on the teeth for the entire
duration of treatment.
After the first visit an approximate period
of 1 to two months is recommended for
adjustments, wire changes, Rubber Bands
and Headgear
During treatment,
Patients may need to wear such items as
rubber bands and/or headgear with their
braces during treatment to provide
important extra forces for the correction
of the bite.
The approximate period for the entire
treatment is usually 18 – 24 months.
However, some cases may be finished
earlier and others may take longer to
complete. The severity level of the
original malocclusion, cooperation of the
patient and the type of treatment may
determine the total time of treatment
Teeth Bleaching and Whitening
Bleaching is considered one of the most
common procedures of dental cosmetics.
It aims at brightening discolored, stained,
or teeth that have been darkened as a
result of injury or drinking habits.
Types of Teeth Stain
Internal Stains:
1.Internal stains are those that occurs
from within the tooth.
2.They cannot be removed by brushing
and flossing
3.Bleaching may not be effective in
removing such stains.
4.Causes include injury to the tooth,
certain medications (such as tetracycline)
taken during tooth formation stage or an
excess fluoride ingested during the
formation of teeth.
Extrinsic Stains(External stains)
1.This is staining of the tooth surface.
2.Sources include cigarettes, cigars, paan
masala , coffee, tea, or spicy foods.
3.Good tooth brushing techniques or
professional oral prophylaxis (scaling) can
remove such stains
Tooth sensitivity may be experienced
during the bleaching process, which
however may disappear within two to
three days upon completion of the
treatment.
Bleaching Instructions
Bleaching is used to enhance your smile
by brightening your existing natural teeth,
and therefore, will not make crowns,
Veneers/Laminates, bonding or existing
fillings lighter.
*Brush and floss teeth thoroughly prior to
placing the tray in your mouth.
*Place small drop of gel in tray at each
tooth site where whitening is desired.
*Place the tray completely and firmly
onto teeth.
*Use toothbrush or clean finger to wipe
off excess gel
*Wear the trays through the night
*When trays are removed, rinse with cool
water and remove residual material and
store in case. Keep your trays out of the
sunlight and heat. Excessive heat can melt
the trays. Do not store them in your car
during the warm summer months.
*Brush and rinse remaining gel from
teeth after Bleaching
*Before you eat make sure you remove
tray
*Have enough material to bleach both
upper and lower teeth for 1-2 weeks.
Copyright © 2012 Dentplan Dental Surgeons | Consolidated Bank Hse, Koinange St., P.O. Box 67427-002
Copyright © 2012 Dentplan Dental Surgeons | Consolidated Bank Hse, Koinange St., P.O. Box 67427-00200 Nairobi Tel: 2240242 | 0720285946
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