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drblocher.com
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FAQ's
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In this section we will answer some of the more common dental questions we receive. If you
don't see a question that you would like an answer to, you may always e-mail us at the link at the bottom of our
home page and we will respond as soon as possible.
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* How often should
I have a dental exam and cleaning? --- You should have an exam and cleaning done at least twice
a year. Some people do require cleanings more frequently depending on the condition of their mouth. At each
recall visit we do a thorough examination of not only your teeth but also your gums and other soft tissue, we check your bite
and do an oral cancer screening.
* What is periodontal disease?
--- Periodontal disease is when there is a buildup of plaque and tartar (calculus) below the gum line which in turn causes
inflammation of the gums and gradual erosion of the supporting bone. Early signs are sore or bleeding gums. Eventually,
if left untreated the teeth begin to loosen and if it gets severe enough may need to be removed. Periodontal disease
is treated through a series of visits where the plaque and tartar is removed from below and above the gums. After it
is completely removed the patient is put on a recall visit of 3-4 months to check the gum tissue and clean the teeth.
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* What is a root canal? --- A
root canal is when the nerve inside the tooth is removed and then filled with a rubbery type material called gutta percha.
Root canals are necessary when the nerve is damaged or infected due to decay or trauma to the tooth. Some teeth only have
one canal while others may have up to four. After a root canal is performed a crown is usually necessary to protect
the tooth from breaking as they tend to become more brittle.
* What types of
crowns (caps) are available? --- There are several different types we use in our office depending on the area
of the mouth, how hard the tooth hits an opposing tooth and the esthetics desired. The most commonly used crown is a
porcelain fused to metal crown. It gives quite a bit of strength to the underlying structure while still looking like
a natural tooth. Sometimes, in the front of the mouth, we use an all ceramic crown with no metal in it. This gives
an even more natural appearance to the tooth as it reflects the light like a real tooth does. With the new Cerec technology
we are able to do crowns in one visit. No more impressions and no more temporaries to worry about. Best of all
no second visit which saves the patient's valuable time.
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* What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture? --- When a tooth or teeth are missing they may be replaced a number of ways. Two of the more common
methods are with a bridge or a partial denture. A bridge covers the teeth on either side of the space the way a crown
would but there is also another artificial tooth or teeth called a pontic that is attached to the other teeth and fills in
the gap. A bridge is cemented into place and is not removable. On the other hand, a partial has clasps that fit
around some of the remaining teeth and the artificial teeth are set in a framework that fits in the mouth. A partial
can be removed.
* What is involved in bonding teeth? --- Bonding
is a procedure by which the teeth can be reshaped and lightened by adding tooth colored composite filling material to the
outer surface of the teeth. No shots are necessary as the teeth are only roughened up a little and not actually "drilled"
into. Bonding typically lasts 3-5 years and can be redone several times.
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*What is a Lumineer?
--- A Lumineer is the latest method for fixing chipped, broken and misaligned teeth. It is a very
thin piece of porcelain that is bonded onto the outside of the teeth to re-shape them and whiten them if that is desired.
There is no drilling into the teeth but in some cases a tooth may need to be slightly recontoured. No shots are necessary
and there is no pain involved. At the first visit an impression is taken and sent to the lab. About 2 weeks later
the Lumineers are seated and you leave with a fabulous new smile. Lumineers will last about 20 years and do not stain
so the color you
get is the color they will stay.
* Is the
Zoom Whitening permanent? --- No, it does fade over time. But included in your Zoom session is a custom
fitted bleaching tray and one touch up kit. A touch up may be done at home and may be necessary every six months to
a year depending on your oral habits. We have more touch up kits available when you run out.
* How long do I have to wear braces? --- There is no set time table for orthodontic treatment.
Every case is different. It depends on the severity of the misalignment, the age of the patient and the cooperation
level of the patient. An average amount of treatment time for the typical patient is 18 months, however, this can vary
widely.
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