Frequently Asked Questions At J. Wesley Anderson, Jr., DDS
- What’s The Difference Between Dental Implants And Removable Dentures
- Is Cosmetic Dentistry Safe
- How Can I Prevent Cavities
- What Am I Risking By Skipping Dental Appointments
Q: What’s The Difference Between Dental Implants And Removable Dentures?
A:
Both dental implants and dentures can replace missing teeth, but the difference between the two services is vast and important. Removable dentures are not fixed to the jawbone. Dental implants are placed in the jawbone and actually fuse to the jawbone over time. Because removable dentures are not fixed to the jawbone, the restorations often slide around in the mouth. Dental implants are totally secure, and we can restore them with crowns or dentures.
The biggest difference in dental implants and removable dentures is the biting force. Removable dentures provide only about 25 percent of the biting power of natural teeth, while dental implants nearly mimic the function of natural teeth. That’s a huge and important difference to consider when deciding on how to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are the closest we dentists can get to replicating your natural teeth. With dental implants, you can eat the food you want, and you don’t have to worry about loose or ill-fitting dentures ever again.
Q: Is Cosmetic Dentistry Safe?
A:
We dentists have used and studied the effects of cosmetic dentistry for decades. Over the years, we’ve found that cosmetic dentistry can be rendered with minimal or no discomfort and without negative effects on your health. Our basic in-office teeth-whitening treatments can be completed in about one hour, and the results are long-lasting. We only use bleaching agents that are safe and comfortable, and we’re constantly looking for new ways to perfect our techniques.
Some cosmetic services, like porcelain veneers, can actually strengthen your teeth. Patients with chips or cracks in their teeth or worn enamel face a higher risk of having their teeth break or fracture. Porcelain veneers can strengthen the tooth while giving it a bright appearance. One thing to consider is that porcelain veneers require us to remove a portion of the enamel, which is not replaceable. Other options, like Lumineers or Snap-On Smile, can be placed without any shots, drilling, or tooth preparation. We can place Lumineers or Snap-On Smile in two easy visits.
umineers or Snap-On Smile in two easy visits.
Q: How Can I Prevent Cavities?
A:
Cavities are a very common part of life. Some of us are more susceptible to getting cavities because of deep fissures or grooves in our teeth. But while most of us have dealt with cavities, our dental office can help you and your family prevent cavities. It all starts by visiting our office twice a year for regular dental cleanings and exams. During these visits, we will clean and polish your teeth and monitor any changes in your mouth.
We also fight off harmful bacteria before it causes tooth decay. We use dental sealants to protect the biting surface of the molars – common spots for cavities – and provide fluoride varnish for children and adults prone to getting cavities. The bottom line is that we develop our treatment based on your dental needs. With our help, you can stay cavity-free and avoid extensive and painful dental problems in the future.
Q: What Am I Risking By Skipping Dental Appointments?
A:
Dentistry is about more than maintaining healthy teeth; we check your teeth, gums, and oral cavity for changes or abnormalities. When you don’t visit the dentist, you put yourself at risk of cavities, gum disease, or even root problems. Prevention is always easier and less expensive than restorations or expansive dental treatment. One serious issue that we see in patients who skip dental appointments is gum disease. As a dental office, we are extremely vigilant against gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease is treatable in its early stages, but it can easily become a lifelong struggle if left untreated. It’s also the leading cause of tooth loss and has been linked to serious illnesses like diabetes and heart disease.
At J. Wesley Anderson, Jr., DDS, we treat gum disease with scaling and root planing, and we also ask patients with gum disease to visit our office every three to four months for their cleanings and exams.
Our office is here to answer your questions and help you achieve a healthier mouth. If you have any further questions or need to come into J. Wesley Anderson, Jr., DDS, call us at (757) 464-1964, or you can set up an appointment by using our simple convenient online form .