We all have heard about the root canal procedure done by dentists to get rid of dental problems and to ensure healthier teeth. We will have a look at how the root canal treatment is done in detail as well as the things you need to keep in mind while going for a root canal treatment for your dental ailment.

Root canal treatment is generally done by a root canal specialist, called an endodontist, who works in conjunction with your dentist. The treatment involves several steps, which are discussed in detail below.

The first step of the treatment procedure involves the dentist performing a series of X-Rays on the region where the root canal is needed to be done. These x-rays help the dentist to know the extent of the damage as well as help him deduce the correct way to move forward in order to perform the treatment. The second step involves the administration of a local anaesthetic that numbs the specific region of the mouth where the procedure is to be performed to ensure minimal or negligible pain to the patient.

The next step involves the dentist putting a mat like a thing on the affected region, to ensure that the teeth remain dry during the process. This mat is usually made of waterproof material like rubber or plastic. This mat also prevents the patient from swallowing undesirable substances which are used during the treatment process. The dentist would then remove the crown in order to gain access to the soft pulp to remove the infected tissues. If he or she finds any abscesses during the procedure they would be drained to provide long-lasting relief.

Post the clean-up, the dentist would enlarge the canal so that it can be easily filled. To do so, the dentist would use an assortment of files that would make the region easier to be filled in as well as would give it a proper shape. This part of the process is long-winded and it may take more than a single session to pass through this stage of the treatment process. The dentist would apply for some medicine in the region between treatment sessions to ensure that the pathogens do not come back to attack the affected region. Antibiotics may also be provided to ward off any allergies or fever that may arise due to the process.

The last part of the treatment involves the sealing of the root canal to prevent further infection as well as the placement of a crown to prevent breakage or other damage. In some cases, the dentist may also suggest a treatment for the discolouration that may occur due to a root canal.

Post the root canal treatment process, it becomes extremely important to practise proper oral hygiene to ensure that the teeth survive longer. Generally, teeth that go through the root canal process, survive a minimum of 8 years if proper care is taken.

Belvedere Family Dentistry specializes in the root canal treatment process as well as other dental procedures to help you get relief from your dental ailments. Their team is helpful yet professional and ensures that their patients have happier and healthier smiles.

Diabetes is a serious disease with a wide variety of negative implications on the human body. The negative effects of diabetes include effects on the teeth and gums. We take a look at oral problems to be aware of when living with diabetes.

Gum Disease

There are two major types of gum diseases which are common in diabetic patients – gingivitis and periodontitis. The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, but if left untreated, can lead to periodontitis. While gingivitis can be prevented or controlled by proper gum care, periodontitis cannot be treated using the process as the body’s fighting ability to infections becomes inhibited due to diabetes. Thus, immediate dental supervision by a dentist is needed as having gum disease can lead to the body unable to regulate its glucose levels, which in turn, would worsen the diabetic condition.

Cavities and Dry Mouth

Cavities are caused when pathogens attack and invade the tooth. They start by eroding the enamel and progressing forward even attack the inner tooth layers and the blood vessels and nerves. Diabetics are more susceptible to having cavities due to the fact that they produce less saliva, which protects the teeth and inhibits the attacking power of the pathogens. Another reason for diabetics being more susceptible is the presence of excess glucose in their body, which cannot be regulated properly due to the lack of insulin.

Dry mouth is also a major reason for cavity formation, and diabetics have to ensure that their mouth is not dry all the time. In addition, dry mouth can lead to bad breath. Hence diabetics are advised to use mouth fresheners and mints to ensure freshness.

Oral Care for Diabetic Patients

The increased risk of oral problems due to diabetes makes it extremely important to practise ways and measures for proper oral and dental hygiene. Some tips for maintaining oral hygiene for diabetics include-

  1.    Brushing and flossing your teeth – One should brush their teeth at least twice per day, preferably after waking up in the morning and before heading to sleep for the night. One should also floss their teeth at least once a day. These measures will prevent plaque build-up and help to avoid tooth and gum issues.
  2.    Managing diet – Patients with diabetes already have a plethora of restrictions on their food, with a lot of food items barred for consumption as it could lead to complications. On top of these restrictions, making sure to avoid foods rich in sugar would also help to maintain oral health and prevent tooth decay.
  3.    Making your dentist aware – An extremely important step is to let your dentist know about your diabetes as it would help him or her to schedule your dental appointments better as diabetics are more susceptible to oral and dental diseases and better scheduling would help them detects problems early on.

Belvedere Family Dentistry specializes in oral and dental treatments for diabetic patients as well as non-diabetic patients of all age groups. Their team involves professional and caring staff that is quick yet efficient in providing the best care for your tooth and gums.

After a visit to your dentist's office, you leave with a radiant, confident smile. So, how do you  keep that smile working for you all year round? The trick is to keep up with your dental hygiene routine but to also avoid foods that can stain your teeth. That's right- there are foods out there that can do damage to your teeth, giving them the appearance of being dull and yellow.

A person's self-esteem and confidence is so tightly tied to the color of their teeth and oral health that it's worth it to avoid foods that will make your teeth stained. Here are a few foods that you should avoid:

Acidic foods with citric acid

One of the biggest culprits of yellowing teeth is from nutritious citric fruits. Sure, these fruits are packed with vitamin c and are great for your health, but go easy on them. The wonderful fruits can erode away your enamel, making your teeth sensitive to cold and heat. When your enamel is eroded away, you also reveal dentin, which is a yellowish tissue underneath your enamel.

Sugary foods and drinks

Both sugary foods and drinks will stain your teeth because the sugars create a playground for bacteria to feed off of. The more sugary foods and drinks you take in, the more bacteria will wear away at your teeth, causing holes. These bacterias release acids that cause things like tooth decay, which will definitely put you on the fast track to stain your teeth a much darker color. Reduce the amount of sugary foods and drinks you put into your mouth to avoid stained teeth.

Coffee

Coffee is another culprit when it comes to acidic foods and drinks that can stain your teeth. Experts advise drinking coffee with a top lid instead of a straw or an open cup, in order to reduce the amount of coffee that makes contact with your teeth. Like the other acidic foods and drinks mentioned about, coffee also erodes away at the teeth's enamel and allows other foods to continue to do damage, staining your teeth.

Wine

Yet another delicious treat that we need to talk about, wine can actually create holes in your teeth that help other foods stain your teeth, just like coffee. On top of that, wine is known to give your teeth a dull, gray colored stain, which is more difficult to remove than yellow stains. The plus side is that red wine is thought to help prevent cavities, so keep your wine drinking in moderation.

Keep these foods in mind while protecting your teeth

Foods that stain your teeth can do incredible damage to both your smile and your self-esteem. Avoiding the foods and drinks talked about above is the best way for you to maintain a wonderful smile year round. Also, remember to come to Belvedere Dentistry for your yearly cleaning and for a dental check up. We will help you keep your smile radiantly confident, stain-free, and welcoming throughout the year.

What are the Advantages of Restorative Dentistry Procedures?

If you are facing any kind of dental health issues that interfere with its functioning, your dentist can recommended a restorative dentistry procedure. There are different types of such procedures based on what kind of dental problem you have. We at Belvedere Family Dentistry provide all types of dental treatments within our comfortable and fully equipped dental office.

Find out the different benefits of restorative dentistry procedures for your teeth.

Tooth Decay Repair

If your tooth has developed cavity, it is important to prevent an infection. In this case, the procedure usually involves filling the cavity using a special resin that helps restore the tooth. Such restorative procedure takes one or two visits to the dentist.

If the tooth gets infected due to decay, the bacteria enter the inner pulp or tissue.  Root canal treatment can help in removing the infected pulp and restoring the tooth’s function.

Restore Teeth Function

If you have damaged, cracked or missing teeth, your dental function can be hampered. You will find some level of difficulty with eating. Restorative dentistry can involve the use of dental implants or dental crows to improve your mouth’s function.

When you have broken tooth, placing a dental crown can be a highly effective treatment to restore the tooth’s function. It is durable and can also withstand different types of pressures and bite forces.

Enhance Aesthetics

Even when restoring the function of the teeth, restorative dentistry can also help in restoring or enhancing your teeth’s aesthetics. Cracked or missing teeth can adversely affect your smile. The right procedure can not only help restore the teeth’s functions, it can also make your smile beautiful.

Prevent Wisdom Tooth Impaction & Pain

When your wisdom teeth appear, they can get impacted and cause pain. There is also a risk of misalignment. Restorative dentistry can help in identifying the teeth that need to be removed before they cause any problems.

Treating Different Dental Problems

There are different types of procedures within restorative dentistry. Some of these treatments include:

Whatever type of dental problems you may have, the experienced dentists at Belvedere Family Dentistry can provide all types of restorative dentistry procedures. We can help restore your dental functions, treat different types of dental problems, and help enhance your smile. Feel free to contact us at our email or phone to fix an appointment.

When you have damaged or missing teeth your quality of life can suffer greatly. That’s why more and more dentists are now offering restorative dentistry.

Restorative dentistry is a process in which an experienced dentist performs a variety of different procedures to help restore the mouth to an aesthetic and functional state. The result is a healthy smile patients love to show off.

The top restorative procedures performed are as follows:

Benefits of Restorative Dentistry

There are of course many benefits associated with this type of treatment. With this article we will focus in on just two.

The first benefit is improved functionality. In some cases, when teeth are missing or severely damaged, it can make things such as chewing very difficult. A restorative procedure such as dental implants could completely restore your ability to chew.

The second benefit is improved aesthetics. If you have gaps in between your teeth the last thing you will want to do is smile. In this situation dental bridges can be used to fill the gaps and help restore your smile. Dentures and dental implants are also restorative procedures that can improve aesthetics.

What is The Best Type of Restorative Procedure?

When it comes to this type of dentistry there is no one size fits all. The procedure that’s best for you will depend on your individual situation. An experienced dentist will be able to exam your teeth to see what procedure would be best for you.

It is advised you speak with a dentist as soon as possible. Left untreated, missing or damaged teeth can lead to a host of health concerns that are not only more complicated, but also more expensive to take care of.

Thanks to the many advancements in technology you no longer have to tolerate missing or damaged teeth. To find out how we can help improve your quality of life, contact our dental office today. Schedule a private consultation so we can discuss the options available to you.

A smile is your crowning glory. Dental crowns restore teeth to their original shape and size. They will improve the tooth’s appearance and make it stronger. When a tooth has a large filling, the crown is often used to ensure the filling stays in place. This is true of teeth that have a tiny bit of the original tooth left. When teeth are badly discolored or misshapen, a crown is an excellent option that an experienced dentist can give to their patient.

The crown is a cover that goes over the tooth. It improves your ability to chew and makes your smile brighter. Crowns are cemented into place, and they fully encase the visible area of the tooth just above the gum’s line. They can protect a tooth that is weak from decay. They also are used to help teeth that need to be held together from damage. They are often the first choice for supporting a larger filling or to hold a dental bridge in place. This is one of the foremost types of restorative dentistry.

What Types of Crowns Are Available?

There are many different materials that are used to make crowns. Most experienced dentists prefer the porcelain style. There is also stainless steel, gold, resin, or all ceramic. There are two types of porcelain crowns that are utilized in the dental field. First, the porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns are made to match adjacent teeth. This is not possible with the metallic crowns. Conversely, wearing down of the contrasting teeth happens more often with this crown type than with those of a metal or resin base. The porcelain-fused crowns are the most natural looking. However, occasionally the metal core of the porcelain can show at the top of the gums as a discolored spot. Porcelain is great for front or back teeth.

The all-porcelain crown provides an excellent natural match, and it is perfect for those who have allergies to metal. Though they are not as strong as the porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, they are an excellent choice for front teeth.

The Crown Installation Process

Preparing to have a crown installed usually takes two trips to the dental office. First, the area is prepared and the tooth is made ready. On the second visit, the crown is installed. During the first visit, x-rays are taken and the roots of the tooth checked. The surrounding bone is also examined to see if there are any issues. If the tooth’s decay is extensive, a root canal may need to be performed first.

The experienced dentist numbs the gum line and files down the chewing surface. If a cavity needs to be filled, this will be taken care of first. The dentist will use putty to make an impression of the tooth, and the crown will be made with your bite in mind. Impressions are sent to a lab, and the crown will be manufactured. It often takes a couple weeks to get the piece back to the office. A temporary crown is made to cover and protect the structure while the permanent one is being made. Once the crown is received, it will be installed using cement.

What Problems Could Develop With a Dental Crown?

There are not many problems with crowns. However, when they are first installed, the tooth will be sensitive when the anesthesia wears off. This is especially true of teeth that still have some nerve left in them. If there is a pain when you bite down, the crown has been placed too high on the tooth and needs to be fixed. Rarely the crown can chip or come loose. A broken or loose crown needs to be fixed immediately. It allows bacteria to seep into the gum lines, and it can cause decay to the remainder of the tooth. They are pretty straightforward, which is why it is one of the foremost types of restorative dentistry available.

When your teeth are broken, damaged, decayed, loose or simply not there anymore, restorative dentistry is what you need. An experienced dentist can return your whole mouth and smile to good health and attractive appearance whether you have one bad tooth or many. If you think you have a tooth that is hopeless, read on to find out how saving it might be easier than you think.

Consultation

The first step is to visit an experienced dentist for a consultation and exam. The dentist can then determine what work needs to be done.If you desire cosmetic improvements as well, you can ask for them to be included. You should remember that healthy teeth and attractive teeth go together, and fixing oral health issues usually results in your teeth looking better.

Restorative treatments

Restorative dentistry can include any dental treatments that repair, rebuild or replace teeth. Here are some of the procedures that could be included in a restorative plan.

• Fillings
• Crowns
• Bridges
• Dentures
• Implants

Dental materials used
Cavities can be filled with traditional metal amalgam fillings or tooth-colored fillings. Also called white fillings, these fillings are made of resin materials that are the same materials used for dental crowns and cosmetic bonding. Dental crowns can be cosmetic, but they are also used to fully restore badly damaged or broken teeth.

Porcelain is the most realistic-looking material available for dental work, and is used for cosmetic veneers and sometimes for dentures. Though it costs more, porcelain is resistant to staining and reflects light beautifully. Composite resins are durable and have the advantage of lower cost and repairability should breakage occur.

Dental implants are full crowns or artificial teeth that are supported by metal posts that are implanted into your jaw. The posts are made of titanium, which is one of the strongest and most durable metals in existence.

Teeth straightening
Straightening your teeth with orthodontics can be a cross between a cosmetic and a health procedure. Crooked teeth or a bad bite can cause problems with your teeth like excessive wearing down of enamel when the teeth come in contact with each other. Gaps between teeth that are crooked can also cause oral hygiene problems. Straighter teeth are generally healthier teeth, and today there are many more options than ever before for getting your teeth straightened.

Find out more
If you have teeth that need repair or replacement, or if you would like to discuss your oral health and find out about your options, call us now to set up an appointment. No matter how bad you think your teeth are, you can have a beautiful and healthy smile with restorative dentistry.

Restorative dentistry is the diagnosis, management and treatment of oral cavity diseases. In addition, it also includes the restoration of the teeth and all supporting oral structures to a completely functional state while providing an aesthetically pleasing smile. The recognized specialty may involve other branches of dentistry, such as prosthodontics, endodontics and periodontics, depending on a person’s specific needs. As a result, it is important to seek out an experienced dentist to perform any restorative procedures.

Before the dentist begins any work, he will take X-rays to diagnose your problem areas and then create a plan to restore your teeth. The plan may include the execution of several restorative procedures, such as root canal treatment and the installation of dental bridges.

Dental Fillings

An experienced dentist can repair decayed, cracked or broken teeth by using fillings. The type of filling that is used depends on the location of the damaged teeth, the cost of materials and the degree of damage. For example, composite fillings, which are fillings that are constructed to match the natural color and shape of your teeth, are most often used on the front teeth. Other filling materials, such as gold and silver, are used on the back teeth because they are more durable.

Root Canals

Instead of pulling a badly infected or decayed tooth, a dentist has the option to save the tooth by performing a root canal. The procedure involves removing all the affected tissue inside the tooth, cleaning the infected area and sealing the tooth with a permanent crown.

Dental Bridges

If you have missing teeth, a dental bridge can prevent the surrounding teeth from moving out of their natural position, which can eventually cause chewing and speech problems. A bridge is basically a dental appliance that replaces your missing teeth by covering the gap created by the missing teeth. The procedure anchors the bridge to the adjacent teeth on either side of the space.

Dentures

Unlike a dental bridge, a denture is a removable dental appliance that can replace some or all missing teeth. A partial denture is applicable to someone who has lost some of their teeth, while a complete denture is necessary for someone who has lost most of his natural teeth. A denture not only restores chewing function, but it also stops facial muscles from sagging.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is an alternative to a traditional dental bridge or partial denture. It is an artificial tooth root that is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a bridge or tooth. Implants are strong, permanent and don’t need any nearby teeth for support.

Contact the dentist office to review the restorative dentistry options that can restore your smile, confidence and oral health.

Fast Dental Restorations

When you have damaged or missing teeth, you probably feel self-conscious about smiling or talking to other people. Fortunately, there are modern and fast ways to repair your unattractive teeth with the assistance of a cosmetic dentist. In most cases, it is possible to have the appearance of your teeth improved in only one or two office visits. Most procedures at dental facilities are completed quickly without a patient experiencing discomfort, but if you need local or general anesthesia, then it is available. Here are a few of the restorations available to repair or replace your missing teeth.

One: Dental Veneers Designed to Cover Tooth Damage

Dental veneers are a type of restoration that cosmetic dentists have used for many years to cover cracks or discoloration on a patient’s tooth enamel. These custom-made restorations are created from porcelain or composite materials to cover the front of damaged teeth. The thin restorations are lightweight and comfortable to wear, and with the proper care, a veneer will last for many years to create an aesthetically pleasing smile.

Two: Dental Crowns to Protect Tooth Pulp and Nerves

If you have a large cavity or diseased tooth, then a dentist can remove bacteria to save the interior pulp and nerves. To protect this interior portion of the tooth, a dental laboratory technician can create a customized color-matching dental crown that fits over the healthy part of a tooth. A dental crown helps to improve your facial appearance and provides a strong biting surface.

Three: Dental Bridges to Provide a Strong Bite

Instead of wearing a removable partial denture inside your mouth, request information about dental bridges from a dentist. This dental restoration is considered a fixed appliance because a dentist attaches the device to surrounding teeth. Dental bridges are a combination of metal wires and durable plastics that are designed to hold color-matching artificial teeth that are similar to dental crowns.

Contact Our Dentist

When you have multiple missing or damaged teeth, a dentist is able to create a plan to restore a smile with an assortment of methods. In some cases, you might need more than one type of restoration to have an aesthetically pleasing appearance. You do not need to undergo several weeks of procedures or excruciating pain to replace or repair problems with your teeth. To schedule an appointment to learn more, contact a cosmetic dentist today.

Restorative dentistry provides patients with some of the most advanced procedures in modern dentistry. The primary objective is to improve the quality of life for those patients who have missed, damaged, decayed or broken teeth. Many restorative treatments are necessary because teeth have been damaged because of disease, accidents, or just by years of neglect. An experienced dentist can diagnose severe dental problems and devise a comprehensive plan for treatment of the entire mouth. This treatment plan may require full-mouth restoration or involve cosmetic procedures such as porcelain crowns or fixed dental bridges. A thorough dental examination and medical and dental evaluation by an experienced dentist can provide available treatment options.

Dental Bridges
The type of dental bridge required depends on the proper foundation surrounding the missing tooth or teeth. If the foundation is weak, a bridge may be attached using dental implants as an anchor for support. Although most bridges are permanently attached to the teeth nearest the missing tooth, some are removable. These are sometimes referred to as partial dentures.

Dental Implants
Restorative dentistry provides patients with several options for giving them a realistic way to regain optimal dental health. Missing and damaged teeth can have severe detrimental effects for the patient. Modern dental treatments can be customized to fit the unique needs of everyone thus ensuring that they receive the ultimate results. Patients can enjoy an improvement in both functionality and appearance with dental implants.

Benefits of Dental Implants
1. Provide more stability than dentures.
2. Implants look and function more naturally.
3. Are designed to function like a natural tooth root.
4. Do not need to be replaced and can last a lifetime.
5. Are easier to clean and care for. Hygiene becomes less complicated.
6. Are more durable and stronger than natural teeth.

Severe dental problems cause pain and discomfort that could possibly be eliminated with restorative dental care. Good oral health is an important aspect of living a healthy life with self-confidence. Healthy teeth and a bright smile can be accomplished again with a restorative procedure. It can literally be life changing. Contact an experienced dentist to discuss the benefits of restorative treatments. Everyone can experience optimal dental health. The latest advances in modern dentistry can make a difference. Call for a personal consultation today.

Uptown Charlotte Dentistry & Orthodontics

Specializing in Invisalign, Composite Bonding, Veneers and Crowns.

We do our best to make it easy for you to get the beautiful smile you deserve! Our office accepts nearly all major insurance plans. Even though dental insurance is a private arrangement between you and your company, we will file your claim, handle all the paperwork, and help you get maximum insurance benefits.

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