Archives for January 2023

Must I Have Bone Grafting Done in Order to get Dental Implants

Posted on January 20, 2023 by writeradmin.

My dentist and I have been planning on me getting four dental implants soon. I am so excited about the idea of having teeth again and no longer feeling (and looking) like a hillbilly. He mentioned I need some bone grafting done. I was totally fine with that. However, since then, I have done some research and learned that they do the bone grafting with cadaver bone. I have to admit that really gives me the heebie-jeebies. Is it at all possible for me to have the dental implants done without the bone grafting?

Jennifer

Dear Jennifer,

While you will need bone grafting done, I have good news for you. Let’s start with why the bone grafting is important first. The dentist recommended this procedure to you because you do not have enough bone in the areas where you are getting your dental implants to actually retain the implants. If you go forward without it, you will end up with dental implant failure and possibly even a cracked jaw. It is essential.

Cadaver Alternatives

Now for that good news I mentioned. Cadaver bone is not the only option for bone grafting. It may be that your dentist never intended to use that option. There are bovine options, and even synthetic bone, mixed with some organic materials. It is even possible for them to harvest and use your own bone, though that would entail an additional procedure.

I would start by talking to your dentist about what type of bone he planned on using for your case. If he says cadaver bone, then tell him your concerns and ask for an alternative option.

About Cadaver Bone

Before you decide against it, you should know a few things about the process. First, the bone was lovingly donated by people and/or their families to go to people in need after their or their loved ones’ death. The bone is thoroughly tested in order to make sure it is healthy and then goes through processing and sterilization.

Either way, it is up to you. Just have a conversation with your dentist to learn his plans and express your desires.

This blog is brought to you by Philadelphia Dentist Dr. Michael Weiss.

Are Lumineers My Only Option to Repair Old Dental Bonding?

Posted on January 10, 2023 by writeradmin.

I had dental bonding done years ago to cover some tetracycline stains. Over time, the bonding has worn off and picked up stains. I wanted to replace the bonding, but I am in a new state with a new dentist. He is insisting that dental bonding cannot be replaced and I have to get Lumineers. That is a much more expensive procedure than I remember my dental bonding costing me. Are Lumineers the only option or is there something else I can look at, such as teeth whitening?

Carmella

Dear Carmella,

It sounds to me like you are with a dentist that does not do much cosmetic dental work. For one thing, dental bonding can absolutely be replaced. I’m not sure how he does not know that. Secondly, he is recommending Lumineers. This particular brand of porcelain veneers is highly marketed to inexperienced cosmetic dentists as being easy to place.

You have three options for covering tetracycline stains. The first is porcelain veneers. This is the best option because the veneers will last longer than dental bonding. While bonding can give you a few years of stain resistance and heartiness, the porcelain veneers can last your lifetime when well taken care of. This means you won’t have to keep replacing them.

Your second option is to replace the dental bonding. Depending on the surface area, this may actually require more chair time for the dentist which could raise the price. They also have to be done free hand, so you will want to find a cosmetic dentist with a lot of experience covering tetracycline stains with dental bonding.

Finally, teeth whitening is sort of an option but you have to be very determined and patient in order to get it to work. It could take months and months of teeth whitening, which could lead to tooth sensitivity. I would only recommend professional strength take home whitening in this situation.

Your Most Important Decision

Your top priority should be to find a qualified cosmetic dentist to do this work. Tetracycline stains are some of the toughest to deal with. It will require a dentist with a significant about of post-doctoral training as well as an artistic eye. In your place, I would only allow a dentist who reached accreditation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry touch this. AACD accredited dentists are the top cosmetic dentists in the country. Listen to what his or her recommendation is before deciding on a procedure.

This blog is brought to you by Philadelphia Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Michael Weiss.

Will Vaping Stain My New Porcelain Veneers?

Posted on January 3, 2023 by writeradmin.

I just received six porcelain veneers and I really love them. I even tried to quit smoking as a means of keeping them healthy and white. Unfortunately, I found that a bit harder than expected. Instead of starting back to smoking, I sort of switched to vaping. I’m currently vaping four to five times a day. Can you tell me if this will cause stains on my porcelain veneers, the way smoking would?

Jenny

Dear Jenny,

Congratulations on both the porcelain veneers and your efforts in getting rid of tobacco in your life. I can tell you are making real efforts to improve things. One of the biggest benefits you will find from giving up tobacco is the increased health to your gums. There is a strong link between smoking and gum disease because the nicotine reduces the blood flow your gums need to stay healthy.

Is Vaping Healthier than Smoking?

Maybe. There is some debate. It certainly has less nicotine than smoking, which is why it is often used as a means of helping people to wean off of cigarettes. However, there is some concern about its impact on users’ lungs. In fact, there is a new issue dubbed popcorn lung that we think is a result of vaping. I would suggest you talk to your dentist about alternatives in order to help you truly quit smoking without trading one health risk for another.

Will Vaping Stain Your Teeth?

Vaping liquids contain propylene glycol/glycerin that are flavored, along with nicotine and water. Some of them contain added colors and some do not. Some good news is that porcelain veneers are quite stain resistant. They are even more stain resistant than your natural tooth structure. That does not mean they will not pick up stains if you are constantly vaping, but know that porcelain gives you the best chance of keeping a white smile.

Be aware though that most smiles are eight to ten teeth wide. You have six veneers, which means your natural teeth will be visible when you smile. Hopefully, your dentist had you whiten your teeth before getting your porcelain veneers so they could be close in color. If not, don’t panic. You can whiten them now without causing any damage to your new veneers.

I recommend that you use Supersmile Toothpaste to keep your porcelain veneers as well as your natural teeth clean, bright, and white. The natural teeth will stain before the porcelain veneers but you want to keep everything as clean as possible. This is a whitening toothpaste that is safe for both cosmetic dental work and natural tooth structure.

This blog is brought to you by Philadelphia Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Michael Weiss.