We have upgraded our Cerec machine which makes crowns,veneers and inlays in one visit while you wait. Even cases we have to send to the lab can be scanned with the Cerec and sent to the lab online. This means we can almost eliminate impressions, which is great for gaggers.
Bonding, white fillings, porcelain veneers, onlays and crowns require attention to detail. Research shows that sensitivity and bond failure often results from incomplete polymerization of the material. Polymerization is initiated by a high intensity light which if not maintained or updated will underperform. This is a common problem. We monitor the intensity using an electronic device on a weekly basis. In addition we just invested in the highest rated light emitting diode curing light on the market. This is not something most people would ever think of, but it is important.
Who gets excited about a drill? Well, we don’t expect anyone to want to try it. Nevertheless, since December we have been using electric handpieces exclusively. These are state of the art instruments which shape teeth faster for crowns, veneers and white fillings with more precision. Also, they don’t have the loud “Scream” associated with traditional air driven handpieces.
It has come to our attention that most people aren’t aware of what all goes into a proper cleaning and exam. Of course we look for decay and polish the teeth but this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to your “cleaning” visit. We look and palpate for abnormalities in the hard and soft tissue, including but not limited to oral cancer. We evaluate the function of the mouth including the coordination of jaw muscles and the way the teeth fit together. Any sign of dysfunction like abnormal tooth wear is closely looked for. A proper prophy (cleaning) involves going below the gum line to remove both soft and hard deposits not just polishing the teeth. Home care instruction and analysis is offered as well as a complimentary tooth brush in addition to any other cleaning implement we deem necessary.
Recently,there has been much concern about the bisphosphonate class of medication for osteoporosis such as Fosamax. These medications have been associated with osteonecrosis (non healing bone) following extractions, dental implants or invasive dental work. Although the risk of this is very low, it would be prudent for anyone going on bisphosponates to have a dental exam before treatment in case dental work needs to be done.
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