FAQ's - Answers to some of the most common dental questions.
Porcelain Veneers - Even though veneers are categorized under cosmetic dentistry there are many restorative benefits to porcelain veneers. Originally designed to create the "bright white hollywood smile" veneers have become an alternative to fixing worn enamel, uneven tooth alignment, spacing and chips or cracks.
While most minor chips and cracks may be fixed with a filling severe cases may require crowns. In some cases instead of a crown a veneer may be placed over the damaged tooth. One of the benefits of choosing this option would be eliminating more invasive tooth preparation. The preparation for a crown involves removing decay and then shaping the surface to fit the crown with porcelain veneers there is only about 1/2 millimeter of enamel removed from the tooth surface.
Dental Veneers may help with:
- Worn enamel.
- General wear and tear.
- Uneven teeth. (See Dr. Doelle's patient above)
- Irregular shaped teeth.
- Gaps between teeth.
- Discolored teeth.
Advantages of porcelain veneers:
- Gum tissue tolerates porcelain well.
- Porcelain veneers are stain resistant.
- Veneers offer a more conservative approach to changing color and shape.
- Veneers do not require extensive shaping like crowns do.
- Stronger and more aesthetic alternative to bonding.
Disadvantages of porcelain veneers:
- Veneers are not reversible.
- Because enamel is removed your tooth may become more sensitive to hot and cold.
- Veneer's color cannot be altered once in place. (It is recommended to whiten teeth before choosing the veneer color.)
Please call or email if you have any questions about porcelain veneers.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar alternative and is created in small amounts by our own bodies and a normal part of everyday metabolism. Recently it has gained more recognition in the dental field by successfully fighting against decay and plaque. Originially xylitol could be found in health food stores in granulated form but is now a commmon ingredient in gum, mints, mouthwash and toothpastes. This could be a great answer to decay and plaque caused by bacteria in the mouth.
Advantages of Xylitol:
- Natural sugar alternative.
- Fights bacteria that cause dental decay.
- Xylitol decreases infection from the onset.
- Effective for people suffering from dry mouth by increasing salivary flow.
- Great sugar alternative for diabetics.
- Help fight sinus infections.
- 40% less calories than sugar with no aftertaste.
Where can I get the recommended dosage of xylitol? (A recommended 6-12 grams per day is recommended.)
- Toothpastes
- Mouthwash
- Mints
- Gum (Ice Breakers Ice Cubes)
- Substitute xylitol in your coffee, cinnamon and sugar, baking needs, etc.
- Granulated xylitol can be found at most health food stores.
How often and when should I use xylitol?
- Use it at least 3 times a day but preferrably 5 times.
- Use after eating or replace ordinary chewing gum with xylitol products.
- If used only occassionally xylitol may not be effective.
- Changes in teeth can usually be seen after 6 months.
There are many sites on the web that will offer more information but if you have any questions please call.