Ask A Dentist 2024 Edition: Orlando Dentists Answer Your Questions
Orlando magazine sat down with several Central Florida dentists to discuss some of your most asked questions.
What is a Minimally Invasive Dental Veneer?
A minimally invasive dental veneer treats worn tooth structures by building up the lost tooth structure with ceramic. A minimally invasive veneer is the thickness of a contact lens and is achieved with minimal removal of tooth structure. It is used to enhance the cosmetics and function of worn teeth, as well as protect the longevity of the teeth. It differs from old-fashioned techniques in which teeth are carved down, and there is unnecessary aggressive removal of tooth structure. The first step is to use photography, simulation scanners, and fabrication of wax projections. This ensures you can see your outcome before committing to the final treatment.
Dr. Aileen Trivedi, Fine Dentistry of Downtown Orlando
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What is an Endodontist?
The word “endodontics” is derived from two Greek words – “endo” meaning inside and “odons” meaning tooth. Dentists who are endodontists specialize in the care of the inside of the tooth, performing what are commonly known as “root canals.” All general and family dentists are qualified to diagnose and treat endodontic issues. Many root canals can be taken care of in your general dentist’s office, but sometimes, due to the severity of your condition or other factors in your oral health, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist. Endodontists undergo an additional two to three years of dental education, studying the latest advanced techniques in root canal treatment to provide the best possible result in complex cases. A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures, with well over 15 million performed every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for dental implants or bridges.
Dr. Peter S. Chen, Advanced Endodontics
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How important are sleep and breathing to overall wellness, and what are the alternative solutions?
Sleep and breathing affect overall wellness. The signs of snoring, frequent sleep interruptions, chronic fatigue, morning headaches, and high blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, strokes, Alzheimer’s disease, and more. We are VIVOS INTEGRATED PROVIDERS. Pneumopedics is the physiologic enhancement of the upper airway via naturally occurring and treatment-induced changes over time. The VIVOS system incorporates the science of Pneumopedics in its treatment protocols for addressing underdeveloped jaws in adults and children. This system is a multi-disciplinary treatment protocol that may treat sleep apnea and sleep-disordered breathing. This treatment averages 12-24 months in duration and is non-surgical and non-pharmaceutical.
Dr. Mary R. Isaacs, Artisan Dental
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Why and when should you visit an endodontist?
Both general dentists and endodontists go through training to perform “root canal” procedures. Endodontists undergo additional training exclusively in diagnosing and treating problems related to the dental pulp and root canal system. Their advanced knowledge and tools ensure precision in addressing intricate dental concerns, increasing the likelihood of successful outcomes. General dentists may refer patients to endodontists for specialized care when faced with particularly complex cases, ensuring focused attention on preserving natural teeth. When dealing with severe tooth pain or intricate root canal anatomy, an endodontist’s specific skills and advanced technology contribute to more effective and targeted treatments, optimizing your chances for a successful and comfortable dental experience.
Dr. Tina Ren, Advanced Endodontics
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How can dental implants replace missing teeth to restore function and esthetics?
Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for restoring both function and esthetics to the mouth, providing patients with a long-term solution to missing teeth that closely mimic the natural structure of the mouth. Functionally, dental implants act as artificial tooth roots, securely anchoring into the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for the replacement teeth, whether a single tooth, a few teeth, or an entire arch. This stability allows for normal chewing and biting function, restoring the ability to enjoy a varied diet and improving overall health. One key advantage of dental implants is their ability to prevent bone loss in the jaw, commonly occurring when teeth are missing. From an esthetic standpoint, dental implants offer unparalleled realism and natural-looking results.
Dr. Amy Mosseri, Dunwoody Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
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When should my child have their first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children visit the dentist after the first tooth erupts or by the child’s first birthday. During the first visit, a dentist will examine your child’s teeth, and a complete cleaning will be done. Additionally, parents might be informed about other treatments, such as fluoride and X-rays. These treatments are essential and effective for the dentist to better treat your children. This is also an excellent opportunity to review your child’s diet and oral habits and learn more about at-home dental care. Starting early is key to keeping them on track for healthy and happy smiles.
Dr. Allison Miller, Pediatric Dentistry of Winter Park
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What is a SMILE DESIGN?
A smile design is our way to create a beautiful, balanced smile that is both esthetic and functional. We start with a high-definition 3D scan and a series of digital photographs and measurements. The technician and the doctor use those images to create a smile makeover with proper length, shape, size, and balance. Once the design is complete, models are printed using a 3D printer. Those models are used as before and after models to allow the patient to see the results.
Dr. Reshma J. Patel, Dynamic Smile Design
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I have an occlusal guard to help protect my teeth at night, but I still grind and clench during the day. Is there anything I can do?
Yes. The first line of defense against tooth grinding and clenching is the occlusal guard, which is usually worn at night. To reduce the tension in the muscles both day and night, we are now offering BOTOX to treat Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) conditions. Once Botox is injected into the muscles of mastication, it relaxes and reduces the force that is applied by those muscles. The treatment consists of injections into the muscles on both sides. The relief is almost immediate, with full effect by two weeks. Botox, on average, lasts three months.
Dr. Charlene Fisher, Southpark Dental Group
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My other dentist did my root canals. Why did my dentist send me to a specialist office this time?
It is true that all dentists are trained to do root canal treatments (RCTs) in dental school, and many basic cases may be handled well by general dentists. However, RCTs are very complicated procedures. Every tooth is different and may have complexities, such as a previously failing root canal or difficult anatomy, which someone with advanced training best handles. As endodontists, we complete an extra 2-3 years of residency, learning the skills and the science behind these procedures to allow us to provide the highest level of care to our patients. By referring you to our office, your dentist is ensuring you get the best care and can save your natural teeth!
Dr. Ryan Brennan, Advanced Endodontics
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If I have a tooth infection, do I need a root canal or just antibiotics?
Antibiotics can help ease the symptoms of an infection; however, they cannot cure the infection alone. Infections arising from bacteria inside the teeth cannot be cured by antibiotic treatment because they do not remove the source, and a tooth infection differs from an infection elsewhere in the body. Antibiotics are generally delivered to the infection site via the blood supply in that area. Unfortunately, in the case of a tooth infection, the blood supply is also affected, making this treatment approach ineffective. If your dentist prescribes an antibiotic, it is primarily to prevent the infection from spreading until proper treatment is performed. Once the tooth becomes infected, root canal therapy is the only way to remove the infection and save the tooth. That is when an endodontist, who specializes in conditions affecting the innermost structure of the tooth, should enter the picture.
Dr. Frances Ballagas, Innovative Endodontics
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Help, my child snores and grinds his teeth!
Snoring and grinding are NOT normal. They may be signs of a child not receiving enough oxygen during sleep. This can lead to ADHD, bedwetting, allergies, crowded teeth, short temper, and so much more. Through soft oral appliances worn while the child sleeps, we are able to develop a child’s ideal airway naturally so that they can be the healthiest versions of themselves. We work to promote nasal breathing and widening of the dental arches, developing the jaw naturally, all while straightening teeth WITHOUT braces. Kids love them! We start as early as age 2, like I did with my own son. Healthier kids with straight teeth through sleep!
Dr. Christina Boesch, Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
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Who would be a good candidate for implant supported dentures?
If you are missing all (or most) of your teeth on at least one jaw, getting fitted with implant-supported dentures may be the most viable option for you. This protocol attaches custom dentures securely over 4-6 implants, which are drilled into the arch of the mouth. Compared to the alternative of replacing missing teeth one by one, the option of a same-day implant-supported prosthetic is better for your bone health, is longer lasting, and is far more affordable.
Dr. Gustavo De Oliveira, Lake Lucerne Lifestyle Dentistry
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What are the advantages of digital dentistry?
With digital dentistry, we can scan teeth and create digital models of teeth. Since implementing digital scanning, the workflow has become more efficient. Fewer dental impressions and quicker communication with the dental laboratory are just some of the advantages.
Dr. Kathryn Miller, Artisan Dental
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I have Periodontal disease, and now need to have gum surgery. I hear the surgery involves cutting open my gums and a long recovery. Are there any other techniques?
According to the CDC, 64.7 million Americans have some form of Periodontal disease (that’s nearly 50% of Americans). Traditionally gum surgery for the treatment of Periodontal disease required cutting open the gums in order to reach the infectious bacteria. The latest procedure to treat severe Periodontal disease uses a LASER to remove the bacteria. This noninvasive LANAP LASER procedure does not require cutting, there is minimal bleeding, and a quicker recovery. At Southpark Dental Group we provide this high tech LASER/ LANAP to treat gum issues. In addition, the FDA recently approved the LANAP LASER as the only treatment cleared for bone regeneration treatments; there are no excuses!
Dr. Leah Ladley, Southpark Dental Group
