Dental Advances Archives « Columbus Dentist Columbus Dentist

Amalgam Or Porcelain Fillings: Which Is Best For You?

Sep 22nd, 2021

If your cavities are being filled during your next dental appointment, you need to consider your options. Among the choices are the traditional metal amalgam fillings and their modern porcelain counterparts. Getting up to speed on these 2 types of fillings will make it easier to choose one that’s suitable for your case.

Amalgam Fillings

This type of filling has been around for quite long, and is easily distinguishable thanks to its silvery color. Amalgam fillings are made using a mixture of metals. Most of them typically contain zinc, copper, tin and about 50% mercury. While the fillings are among the more affordable and long-lasting options, they’re marred by a handful of drawbacks.

Ceramic Fillings

Also known as ceramic fillings, these are the most widely used today. They are made by filling a methacrylate matrix with tiny porcelain particles, with the latter accounting for 80% of each filling’s content. The material used to cover the cavity is usually formed in a special lab.

Amalgam Fillings vs Porcelain Fillings

Because most insurers don’t fully cover the cost of ceramic fillings, they tend to be pricier than their amalgam counterparts. But as earlier mentioned, the latter option has quite a number of setbacks. The more notable of these include:

-Amalgam fillings are highly prone to temperature fluctuations. The filling weakens the tooth’s structure as it expands and contracts, and this could potentially cause it to crack.

-As time goes by, the silver color starts to darken. This diminishes the aesthetic appeal of one’s smile.

-While the level of mercury in amalgam fillings is certified as safe for people over the age of 6, it’s still a cause for concern.

Not only are ceramic fillings a good mercury-free alternative, but they also offer other benefits as well:

-Since ceramic fillings are made based on a scan of the patient’s teeth, they can be shaped to cover the cavities perfectly.

-Each filling is obtained from a homogeneous ceramic cube. As such, porcelain fillings maintain their size and shape, temperature changes notwithstanding.

-The insertion of ceramic fillings only requires a small space. This translates to less drilling, which in turn means patients are able to keep more of the healthy part(s) of their teeth.

-Porcelain fillings are less prone to discoloration. This, combined with the fact that they can be matched to the natural color of one’s teeth, adds up to a more aesthetically-pleasing result.

You can now see why ceramic fillings are the best option for your teeth. In recent times, manufacturers have developed superior composite materials for the construction of porcelain fillings. You can thus find quality ceramic fillings that are much more resilient when compared to their metal predecessors.

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Myths about Root Canals

Jul 7th, 2020

When talking about dentistry, some people are still a little afraid of having someone poking around in their mouth with sharp objects. And as they see after a few appointments, there’s nothing to worry about. The root canal is one of the most feared dental procedures, and the same applies to it. There are a few big myths and misunderstandings about endodontic therapy (root canals).

A root canal is not a painful procedure.
Contrary to popular belief, a root canal is among the least painful procedures you can have done at a Columbus area dentist’s office! The myth about it being painful has stuck around for quite a long time. The last time root canals were painful was before the use of anesthetic to numb the area. The painful part most people think of is when they realize that they need a root canal; when their tooth is throbbing with pain from an infection.

An extraction is not a good alternative to a root canal.
The best teeth are your teeth. They already fit, your body makes them pretty strong, and they’re pretty hard to get out of your jaw anyway. It’s always best to keep your original teeth whenever possible. Extracting a tooth exposes more areas to infection and disease. In addition, the teeth around the gap will often be used as a bridge to hold an artificial, replacement tooth in place.

Root canals do not lead to other infections throughout the body.
Incorrect research was done circa 1910 about bacteria entering the bloodstream through a root canal. Every report has either refuted or been unable to replicate the original researcher’s findings. Natural bacteria live in your mouth no matter how often you brush your teeth, and these have no negative effect on you. In fact, your body is programmed to kill bacteria in your bloodstream.

Consider these myths debunked. Feeling a little more comfortable with root canals? Call The Dental Center at Easton to speak to a qualified professional about endodontic therapy.

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What is Sedation Dentistry?

Apr 27th, 2020

Have you ever been afraid of the dentist? Going to the dentist, even just for a checkup, can be a terrifying experience for some people. They can’t be entirely blamed for being afraid. Dentistry is one of those trades that use a lot of sharp tools, needles, and scary sounds. When you think about it, it doesn’t make a lot of sense to put something that sounds like a power drill in your mouth.

To ease that experience, many patients elect to participate in sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry can be administered in one of three ways: inhalation, intravenous, or oral medication. The first, also known as “laughing gas,” is a tried-and-true method that’s been around for quite a while. Intravenous provides a steady dose of sedative until the end of the procedure, but it is a needle that goes into your skin. For those already nervous about dental tools, this isn’t the best option. In the U.S., many patients opt to take their sedative orally. It comes either in pill or liquid form, depending on the procedure. It’s exceptionally common and helps many people get the dental work that they want without having to experience a panic attack.

Our Columbus office at Easton offers sedation dentistry and is conveniently accessible for Central Ohio and conducts thousands of procedures each year. We know how to keep our patients happy. Contact us to learn more about sedation dentistry and find out if it’s right for you.

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Types of Sedation Dentistry

Mar 30th, 2020

There are three main types of sedation dentistry. At our Columbus, Ohio, office, our patients vastly prefer to be sedated orally. However, you have your choice when considering how you would like your dental work to be done. Here are the three ways sedative can be received:

• Orally. Sedative can be ingested via pill or liquid in a small dose for light to moderate sedation. Generally, this leaves the patient relaxed and calm, but able to respond to purposeful interaction from the dentist. This method is preferred among patients and dentists alike. Patients who are wary of needles and gas love this simple method. Dentists like that their patient is still able to respond to simple questions when needed, or express discomfort during work.

• Intravenously. This method produces a steady flow of sedation and is perfect for longer procedures or extended work. Patients who are anxious about needles don’t often choose this method, however. Intravenous sedation makes it easy for complicated work that often takes multiple visits to be done in one extended session. This reduces the number of visits needed with a dentist and it will only seem like minutes have passed for the patient.

• Inhalation. “Laughing gas” has been around since the 18^th Century. It was one of the first anesthetics to be used, though that was long after its initial discovery. Gas had been the most common sedative used in dentistry for a very long time and is still favored by some patients today. It often creates a deeper sedation for longer procedures and leaves a euphoric effect on the patient.

Interested in learning more about sedation dentistry in Columbus for your dental work? Speak to a dentist today about what options are available to you.

Posted in Dental Advances, Dental Techniques, Sedation Dental Services | No Comments »

Let’s Talk About Dental Implants

Nov 7th, 2019

A missing tooth used to be a permanent problem, but now has a permanent solution: dental implants. Patients in the Columbus area who have missing teeth can greatly benefit from dental implants both cosmetically and functionally.

Though it is a relatively common procedure, this innovative method of tooth replacement can be implemented by only the most technically skilled dentists, such as Dr. Gilmer.

The procedure begins with a comprehensive oral exam, a full set of X-rays, and a complete review of the patient’s medical history. Before the individual is determined to be a good candidate for dental implants, a complete review of the patient’s oral habits is taken into consideration. A treatment plan is created to meet the specific needs of the patient and, by the end of the initial visit with cosmetic dentistry services, the patient will have a full understanding of what the treatment entails and the cost associated with it.

Patients with a long history of missing teeth or poor oral hygiene typically do not qualify for placement of implants. Soft tissue contours and changes over time and cannot be rebuilt without extensive surgical procedures that involve modifications to the existing gingiva. If any widespread soft tissue discrepancies are noted by the dentist, the patient will be presented with other options of tooth replacement.

After the implants have been placed and the healing process is completed, the restoration process begins. Single crowns or bridges are fabricated to imitate the patient’s natural smile. Porcelain restorations are placed over the implants and seamlessly blend with the existing teeth. Fully edentulous (toothless) patients benefit from the application of dentures mimicking their natural smile line. Dental implants serve as anchors and help with the retention of the dentures and quality of chewing and speech patterns. Proper facial tissue support provided by superbly manufactured dentures elevates the patient’s confidence and correct how the jaw lines up. Nothing can replace the effect a smile can have on a person but the right, competent dentist can replace and mend the teeth in a smile.

The costs of dental implants may be of concern to you. The Dental Center at Easton may be able to offer you a payment plans or other financing options to help alleviate the financial burden of this life changing treatment option. We know that a smile is often worth more than monetary value so we are willing to work with patients to give them the best smile possible. If you have any questions, or would like more information, please feel free to contact our Easton Town Center dental office in Columbus Ohio at 614-414-0111.

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Advances, Dental Implants | No Comments »

How Late In Life Can One Get Braces?

Nov 26th, 2018

Childhood is frequently viewed as the prime time to get braces. However, more adults of all ages are choosing orthodontic treatment to fix many of their oral health problems and opting for braces. According to The American Association of Orthodontists, one in five people who seek the treatment of braces is over age 18.

While the appearance of a beautiful, straight smile is a common motive for adults to get braces, there are many other reasons why someone might be interested in their later years of life. Whether it is the natural effects of aging, misalignment, or underlying health conditions, it is never too late to seek orthodontic care. In fact, proper teeth alignment becomes even more crucial as people grow older.

Braces are more than just creating attractive smiles.

Braces help correct improperly positioned teeth, which will also prevent common oral health issues. Crowding pressure, tooth decay, and the deterioration of enamel can cause a substantial amount of pain and discomfort without the proper treatment. Getting braces to fix the positioning of your teeth can end up saving a lot of distress and money in the long run, no matter the age.

Aging can cause the teeth to shift. As we age, it is not uncommon for our teeth to start moving. As the jawbone changes, the midline shifts from it’s ideal positioning. This can happen even if our teeth have been straight throughout our whole life. The continuous, yet slow shift of the midline can ultimately result in crowding and overlapping of the teeth. Braces can undoubtedly straighten age-related crooked teeth at any age.

Some health conditions contribute to misalignment. While aging is a large factor, sometimes health conditions and injuries can influence our teeth to move in an undesirable way. Periodontal disease, a condition caused by bacteria living under gum tissue, can also lead to the spreading of teeth. Stress is another common factor when it comes to teeth shifting and misalignment. Grinding, clenching, nail biting and tongue thrusting are all examples of unconscious habits that cause wear and tare on your teeth. If an adult is noticing that their teeth are changing their shape and size, they might seek the advice of an Orthodontist to see if braces are right for them.

Problems that were left untreated as a child can get worse with time. Common oral issues, such as a misaligned jaw or bite, can lead to further health complications that might urge a person to be interested in braces. Headaches, TMJ, and gum disease name a few conditions that a person might run into when misalignment is left untreated. As an adult, the getting braces can help correct these issues and improve your overall health and wellness.

Neglecting the use of retainers. Sometimes, adults who have had braces when they were younger may need to go through a second or third course of treatment. This is usually due to not wearing retainers as instructed by their orthodontist. The proper use of retainers long after wearing braces can prevent the teeth from shifting back to its original state. When a previous orthodontic patient neglects that responsibility, the chances are high that their teeth might become crooked again. It is not uncommon to see an adult get braces multiple times throughout their life.

Modern braces make a difference. Sometimes, children and adolescents choose not to wear braces for aesthetic reasons. Now, with more reliable options such as clear brackets and Invisalign, braces are more socially acceptable, even for adults. That is not to mention that braces today are more affordable than they have been in the past. Adults might decide on orthodontic treatment later in life due to financial reasons. Today, most orthodontic offices accept dental insurance and create reasonable payment plans for all patients.

With the right treatment, braces can be beneficial at any age. Braces used to be a type of dental care that was more commonly seen on children and teenagers. Now, statistics show that more than 20% of orthodontic patients are adults, including those in their 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. It’s never too late to make improvements to our health and wellbeing, which is why more adults are getting braces to straighten their smiles.

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Electrical or Manual Toothbrush: Which is Better?

Oct 26th, 2018

This is one of our most frequently asked questions! Our answer? It’s not the brush that matters, it’s who’s doing the brushing.

Let’s break that down. The goal of tooth brushing is to remove plaque from your teeth on a consistent (daily!) basis, so that we prevent the buildup of tartar which leads to tooth decay. A manual toothbrush is a great and inexpensive tool that helps us do just that. Make sure to brush two minutes per day, twice a day. Gently brush ALL surfaces and make sure to reach those back molars.

For some people, it can be difficult to brush properly with a manual toothbrush. Those with some form of motor disability or arthritis may benefit from using an electric toothbrush. An electric brush can also be helpful for kids or anyone with braces.
The same tooth brushing rules apply – two times per day, two minutes at a time. One advantage of an electric toothbrush is that some have a built-in timer. If you’re one of those quick brushers who has a hard time making it to two minutes, consider using a timed electric brush.

At your next dental visit, ask us whether we think you would do better with a manual or electric brush! And, as always, don’t forget to floss!

Posted in Bad Breath, Braces, Columbus Dentist, Dental Advances, Dental Care, Gum Disease, Oral Care, Oral Hygiene | No Comments »

Are Dental Procedure Costs on the Rise?

Sep 30th, 2018

Over the last several years, the cost of dental care has been increasing at a faster rate than most healthcare services. With such rapid developments made to dental procedures, technology, and education, the average American cannot afford many of the treatments that are often recommended by dentists. Although most Americans are insured with some form of healthcare, the expense of a dentist visit often outweighs those benefits, especially during the more demanding procedures, such as root canals and tooth extractions. As a result of this abrupt increase in the cost of dental care, research has shown that only 36% of Americans actually go to the dentist on an annual basis. Unfortunately, when cost is the only thing standing in the way of proper dental care, we are either forced to pay the expenses out of pocket or skip the recommended treatment overall. This in turn, can lead to further health complications down the road.

With such an increase in dental bills, many of us find ourselves wondering why a trip to the dentist is so expensive. Professional dentistry requires extensive knowledge and advanced technology in order to deliver the highest quality of treatment. Studies show that 80% of what a patient pays after their dental procedure goes toward the expense of running an up-to-date dental practice. Considering the cost of office space, payroll of certified staff, health and business insurance, taxes, supplies, and updated technology, it’s no wonder why dental visits are costly. The quality of products that are manufactured in dental labs are also on the rise, resulting in a much higher demand in order to afford reliable crowns, dentures, and other dental products that are being placed inside patients’ mouths.

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings have come an extremely long way over the last 150 years. Dental filling advancements that might affect the higher treatment costs, include the variety of updated bonding techniques. Now, we have the option of treating our cavities with dental fillings that blend with the actual color of the tooth, making it more aesthetically pleasing to the patient. Tooth composites are also being produced to be a stronger, more translucent material. While a traditional, silver amalgam filling can cost as little as $50, there are some porcelain fillings that can cost almost $4,500. With so many options to choose from, the price of treating tooth decay will most likely continue to increase.

Tooth Extractions

Sometimes, dental procedures require surgical and non-surgical extractions to fix the issues that can’t be treated. While the cost of tooth extractions depend on the difficulty and length of the treatment, the actual procedure usually involves administering anesthesia. Furthermore, the latest anesthesia technology is expensive, and even the most basic forms can get pricey. Depending on the severity, the average tooth removal can cost anywhere from $75 to $700 per tooth.

Root Canals and Crowns

Dental procedures, such as crown placements, normally follow a root canal, turning the treatment into a couple weeks worth of dental visits. The cost of a crown is usually tied to the type of material that it’s made of. Dental labs are making the material more durable so that there are less chances of the crown cracking later down the road. The improvements made in the material of dental crowns make the overall costs range from $300-$700. That’s not to mention that the root canal procedure can cost a couple hundred dollars as well.

Running a Dental Office

With the rise in modernized dental procedures and technology, running a dental office as a professional can cost a small fortune. A small dental office serving roughly 1500 patients per year can cost several hundred thousand dollars per year to operate.

Studies have recently shown that more and more people continue to skip the dentist office all together because of the unpleasant bill that comes along with the visit. However, it’s important to remember that the high costs are associated with giving the patient the best quality of care and satisfaction. Dental care is an essential part of living a healthy life, thus why such extensive measures have been taken to make all dental procedures as reliable as possible.

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Is the Future of Dentistry Silver?

Feb 26th, 2018

A recent scientific discovery could have big implications for dental practices around the world. This discovery was made by Dr. Carla Meledandri of the University of Otago’s Chemistry department. In fact, the discovery was so significant that Dr. Meledandri received the 2017 Prime Minister’s MacDiarmid Emerging Scientist Prize.

Dr. Meledandri’s discovery was that silver nanoparticles can be used to prevent and treat dental disease without staining the teeth. Nanoparticles are incredibly small parts of a substance. On the nanoscale, these particles look, react, and act differently than they do on a larger scale. Dr. Meledandri has been studying these nanoparticles to better understand how they interact with their surroundings and how they can be used to benefit the world. In addition to discovering their ability to treat and prevent dental disease, Dr. Meledandri found that these nanoparticles may be able to help to mitigate global warming by capturing carbon dioxide and removing it from the atmosphere. These small particles really can make a big impact on the world!

If silver nanoparticles become largely used to treat the bacterial source of tooth decay and infection, the prevalence of antibiotics used to treat this bacteria could be decreased. This could be a great step forward because, although antibiotic treatment often works quite well, it does pose the risk of creating antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The silver nanoparticles, however, use a different mechanism to treat bacteria. This mechanism makes it impossible for bacteria to ever grow resistant to it.

At The Dental Center, we’re looking forward to seeing how these silver nanoparticles can benefit dental patients in our office and around the world. We’re always inspired to see the innovations that come from exploring our world and investigating new avenues of treatment. We can’t wait to see what new discoveries will improve dental treatment soon!

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