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| Q: What is prosthodontics? |
| A: Prosthodontics is the dental specialty that deals with the restoration and replacement of teeth. Only 2% of the dentists in America are prosthodontists. |
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| Q: Why would you choose a prosthodontist? |
| A: Prosthodontists receive two to three additional year of specialized training in an American Dental Association accredited graduate education program after completing the usual four years of dental school. Prosthodontists care emphasizes esthetic, implant and reconstructive dentistry. |
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| Q: What does prosthodontic treatment correct? |
| A: The treatment corrects stained, chipped, worn, broken or missing teeth. Replacement of teeth usually includes crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays, dental implants, and complete and partial dentures. |
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| Q: Why is treatment important? |
| A: Prosthodontic dentistry is not general restorative dentistry (e.g. fillings). It treats the reconstruction of the functional crowns of teeth, it addresses corrective bite issues, and it provides the proper contour of all fixed and removable prostheses. Prosthodontists provide referrals for other dental specialists and design a patient's treatment when multi-specialty care is needed. |
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| Q: How do I know if I have oral cancer? |
 A: Signs to watch out for include:
- A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
- Red or white patches
- A change in color of any parts of the mouth
- A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area
- Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue
- Sore throat or hoarseness
- A change in the way the teeth fit together
Sometimes there are no easily recognizable signs; regular dental examinations are an invaluable part of early cancer detection and treatment. |
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| Q: Can early detection help with oral cancer? |
| A: Yes! Early detection of cancer and pre-cancerous conditions provides a higher probability of cure. |
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| Q: What does an oral cancer screening involve? |
| A: The screening involves rinsing the mouth for one minute with a cleansing solution and the immediate examination with a special ViziLite. Its fast, easy and painless. |
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| Q: What are dental implants? |
| A: Dental implants are metal anchors implanted in the jawbone to hold replacement teeth in place. The "root" sits in the jawbone below the gumline and the visible tooth, or "crown," is attached to it. Implants support individual artificial teeth, bridges and dentures, and look and feel much like natural teeth. |
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| Q: Am I a candidate for dental implants? |
| A: Dental implants are an attractive option for patients who have lost one or more teeth, cannot chew or smile comfortably, or are not happy with dentures. To be considered for dental implants, you must be in good overall health and have strong gums and bones. You must follow excellent oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing and regular dental examinations. Patients with a high risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease, such as smokers and diabetics, may not be good candidates. Your dentist will review your oral health and take x-rays to determine your eligibility. |
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| Q: How is a dental implant placed? |
| A: The first step is surgery to place the anchor of the implant into the jawbone. The procedure may take several hours under local or general anesthesia. You will then wait for the bone to heal firmly around the implant, which takes from six weeks to six months.
The metal post that attaches the tooth to the anchor may be placed during the same surgery or in a second procedure.
When the gums have healed, your artificial teeth will be made and fitted on the post. This often requires x-ray images, impressions, and bite registration records, so it may take several appointments over a few months to get your new teeth fitted properly.
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| Q: What are the benefits? |
| A: Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. They don't sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth like a bridge does because neighboring teeth are not altered to support the implant. More of your own teeth are left untouched and won't experience the bone loss and gum recession that can otherwise occur. Lastly, the success rate is highly predictable. They are the best option for tooth replacement. |
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| Q: Are there any risks involved? |
| A: Dental implant surgery is safer now than ever before. Nevertheless, as with any other surgery, some risks exist. These include complications from surgery such as excessive bleeding and reaction to anesthesia. Your dentist will discuss the risks with you in greater detail. |
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| Q: Will my teeth feel natural? |
| A: Yes, dental implants look and feel much like natural teeth. Artificial teeth are constructed to mimic real ones, and implants are fused to your jawbone so they feel snug. Implants are often more comfortable and fit more securely than other replacement options. |
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| Q: What can I expect when I come to get my teeth cleaned? |
A: The goal of our hygienists is to help you maintain your good health and natural teeth. We are pleased to offer the most advanced technologies to each of our patients.
When you come for your 3, 4 or 6 month hygiene care appointment, you can expect the following procedures:
Medical History updates; Blood Pressure monitoring; Dental History updates; yearly radiographs; use of intra-oral camera for patient to view the inside of their mouth on a video screen; use of Diagnodent - a laser light used to detect cavities; exam by Dr. Salcetti; Oral Cancer Exam and Screening with the use of ViziLie; Periodontal Charting; Placement of an antibiotic treatment Arestin - to manage Periodontal pockets; Polish teeth; Fluoride treatment; Oral Hygiene Instruction and Patient Education; Headphones and Music are also available for your additional comfort.
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