Frequently Asked Questions

A filling and a root canal treatment (RCT) address different levels of tooth decay or damage, and they are not interchangeable. Why a Filling Can't Replace RCT Extent of Decay: Fillings are only suitable for treating decay confined to the outer layers of the tooth. Once the decay reaches the pulp, a filling is insufficient to address the infection and restore the tooth. Infection Control: If the pulp is infected, simply placing a filling over the decayed area would not remove the infection, which can spread and cause abscesses or more severe health issues. 3. Pain and Symptoms: Severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity, and other symptoms often indicate that the damage has reached the pulp, necessitating RCT to alleviate pain and save the tooth. In summary, a filling is an appropriate treatment for minor to moderate cavities, while RCT is required for more severe decay or infection that has affected the tooth's pulp. A dentist can evaluate your specific situation and recommend the appropriate treatment.

The choice between a PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal) crown and a zirconia crown depends on several factors, including aesthetics, durability, location of the tooth, and individual preferences. Here’s a comparison to help you decide: PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal) Crowns: Advantages: Strength and Durability: The metal substructure provides strength and is less likely to fracture. Cost: Generally, PFM crowns are less expensive than zirconia crowns. Proven Track Record: They have been used for many decades and have a long history of success. Disadvantages: Aesthetics: The metal base can sometimes show through the porcelain, especially at the gum line, which may be less desirable for front teeth. Allergic Reactions: Some patients may have allergies or sensitivities to the metals used in PFM crowns. Wear on Opposing Teeth: The metal and porcelain combination can cause more wear on the opposing teeth. Zirconia Crowns: Advantages: Aesthetics: Zirconia crowns are highly aesthetic, offering a more natural appearance as they are metal-free and can be made to match the color of your natural teeth. Strength and Durability: Zirconia is very strong and resistant to chipping and cracking. Biocompatibility: Zirconia is biocompatible, meaning it is less likely to cause allergic reactions or sensitivities. Minimal Tooth Preparation: Less tooth structure needs to be removed compared to PFM crowns. Disadvantages: Cost: Zirconia crowns are generally more expensive than PFM crowns. Technique Sensitivity: The fabrication and fitting process can be more technique-sensitive, requiring precise work from the dentist and dental lab. Conclusion: - For Front Teeth: Zirconia crowns are often preferred for their superior aesthetics and natural appearance. - For Back Teeth: Both PFM and zirconia crowns can be suitable, but zirconia's strength and durability make it a good choice for withstanding the forces of chewing. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific dental needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

Orthodontic treatment can be appropriate at various ages, depending on individual needs and dental development. Here are some general guidelines: Children: The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, an orthodontist can identify potential issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth. Early intervention, known as interceptive orthodontics, can sometimes prevent more serious problems from developing and may make later treatment shorter and less complicated. Teenagers: Most orthodontic treatment, such as braces, typically begins between ages 11 and 14. By this age, most of the permanent teeth have come in, and any misalignment or bite issues can be effectively addressed. Adults: It's never too late to receive orthodontic treatment. Many adults opt for braces or aligners to improve their smile and oral health. The right age for orthodontic treatment varies depending on individual circumstances. An orthodontic evaluation can help determine the most appropriate timing and treatment plan.

Tooth extractions are typically not painful due to the use of local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth being removed. You may feel pressure during the procedure, but you should not feel pain. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect: During the Extraction: - Local Anesthesia: The oral surgeon will administer a local anesthetic to numb the extraction site. You might feel a slight sting or pinch as the anesthetic is injected. Hence during the procedure, you will feel no pain, only pressure. After the Extraction:  - Post-Operative Pain: It's common to experience some discomfort after the anesthesia wears off. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, or your dentist may prescribe stronger pain medication if needed. Swelling and minor bleeding are normal and should subside within a few days.

If a missing tooth is not replaced, several issues can arise over time: Shifting Teeth: Adjacent teeth may shift into the gap left by the missing tooth, leading to misalignment and bite problems. Bone Loss: The jawbone around/in the area of missing tooth can deteriorate over time because it no longer receives stimulation from chewing. This can lead to changes in facial structure and additional tooth loss. Gum Disease and Tooth Decay: Shifting teeth can create hard-to-clean areas that may increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Difficulty Chewing and Speaking: Missing teeth can make it harder to chew food properly and may affect your speech. Aesthetic Concerns: Gaps from missing teeth can affect the appearance of your smile and potentially impact your self-confidence. Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant, bridge, or denture can help maintain oral health, function, and appearance.

No, the extraction of wisdom teeth does not cause loss of eyesight. This is a myth with no scientific basis. Wisdom tooth is located at the back of the mouth, far from the eyes, and their removal does not impact vision. The nerves and blood vessels that serve the teeth are entirely separate from those that serve the eyes. Complications from wisdom tooth extraction are generally limited to the oral region and may include pain, swelling, dry socket, or infection, but not vision loss.

Preventing cavities involves a combination of good oral hygiene practices and healthy lifestyle choices. Here are some effective strategies: Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Ensure you brush all surfaces of your teeth and your tongue. Floss Daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline, areas that a toothbrush can't reach. Use Mouthwash: An antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can help reduce plaque and strengthen tooth enamel.    Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: Sugary and acidic foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay. Limit your intake and try to rinse your mouth with water afterward. Drink Water: Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria and can also promote saliva production, which naturally helps protect teeth. Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing can't.    Eat a Balanced Diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products helps maintain good oral health. Consider Dental Sealants: Sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Following these practices can significantly reduce your risk of developing cavities.

Delaying dental treatment can lead to several complications, including: Progression of Decay: Untreated cavities can worsen, leading to larger areas of decay, potential infection, and eventually tooth loss. Gum Disease: Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can progress to more severe forms (periodontitis), causing gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. Pain and Discomfort: Dental problems often cause pain, which can increase in severity over time. Infections: Infections in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body and lead to serious health issues if not treated promptly. Increased Treatment Complexity: Delaying treatment often results in more complicated and expensive procedures being necessary later. Impact on Overall Health: Poor oral health is linked to various systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Timely dental care helps prevent these issues and maintains overall oral and general health. Also, it reduces the cost of the treatment drastically.

Third molar extraction, or wisdom tooth removal, is not always mandatory. It depends on several factors, including: Impaction: If the wisdom teeth are impacted (unable to fully erupt) and causing pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth, extraction is often recommended. Crowding: If there isn't enough space in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to come in properly, they can cause crowding or misalignment of other teeth. Decay or Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted can be hard to clean, leading to cavities or gum disease. Preventive Reasons: Some dentists recommend removal to prevent potential future problems, even if the teeth are not currently causing issues. If wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, properly positioned, and not causing any problems, extraction may not be necessary. A dentist or oral surgeon can evaluate your specific situation and recommend the best course of action.

Flossing is essential because it removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gumline, areas that a toothbrush cannot effectively reach. While brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, flossing ensures that the spaces between teeth and along the gumline are also kept clean. This helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Regular flossing, along with brushing, contributes to overall oral health.