Why does Dr. Cris use white, mercury free fillings?
For many years, amalgam fillings were one of the best methods that dentists could use to restore teeth. Unfortunately, these fillings have been known to break down and leak mercury over time.
At our practice, Dr. Cris uses only composite resin to fill cavities. Durable and long-lasting, this material bonds directly to the surface of your teeth. Composite fillings match the appearance of your natural teeth, so no one will be able to tell that you have them. Composite fillings also don’t discolor as metal fillings do and are completely safe.
If you have older fillings and are concerned, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cris. After she examines your mouth, she can discuss the risks of silver fillings with you and suggest further treatments to protect your health.
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What is gum disease? Why am I being treated for it?
Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is an inflammation in the gums and other tissues that surround your teeth. With this condition, bacterial build up around the base of the tooth irritates the gums and causes the tissue to pull away from the tooth. Over time, this can lead to painful tooth loss.
Gum disease is often called a silent disease since the early stages aren’t painful. Because of this, many patients forego treatment. That can be a big mistake since gum disease is easily treatable in its early stages. Nonetheless, Dr. Cris takes any stage of this disease seriously since it has been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other conditions.
During your first visit and subsequent check-ups, we thoroughly examine your mouth, checking for signs of gum disease and other problems. If you have gum disease, our practice has several non-surgical treatments to stop the damage and maintain your dental health. For more information, you can talk to Dr. Cris during your appointment or call us at 949-581-1900 for more information.
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What is the difference between a regular cleaning and gum treatment?
During a regular cleaning, stains are removed from the surface of your teeth and bacterial build-up is cleaned from the teeth and gums. While you should have a regular cleaning at least twice year, the number of cleanings you need depends on your dental health.
Gum treatment is needed when you have gum disease. When this condition is left untreated, bacterial build-up or plaque damages the tissue and exposes the bone that supports the teeth. Over time, this leads to tooth loss. During gum treatment, Dr. Cris performs a simple scaling and root planing (and sometimes combines this with antibiotics or antimicrobial treatments) to clean the infected teeth and gum tissue. This prevents further damage and helps the tissues to heal.
Having your teeth regularly cleaned and checked for gum disease is very important to your dental and overall health. You can schedule a cleaning by calling us at 949-581-1900.
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Will my treatment be painful?
No. Dr. Cris has a very gentle touch. During all of her treatments, she takes her time and moves through procedures at your pace. Our practice also offers a variety of amenities, such as music and movies, to take your mind off your visit. If you are a bit nervous, we offer nitrous or laughing gas to help you relax.
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What is a crown?
A crown is a tooth-shaped restoration that completely covers the natural tooth to just below the gum line. There are many reasons Dr. Cris may suggest applying a crown. Crowns can restore the appearance of a cracked or chipped tooth. They can also strengthen teeth weakened by cracked tooth syndrome.
Dr. Cris may also recommend crowns when you want to improve the appearance of your teeth. If teeth are mildly out of alignment, crowns can make your teeth appear straighter. When your teeth have tough, bleach-resistant stains, a crown can cover the discoloration. Crowns can also protect your teeth from chipping or fractures.
Before a crown can be applied, Dr. Cris will take an impression of the tooth in order to create a porcelain crown. She will then remove the damaged area, trim or shape the tooth and then place the crown.
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What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium cylinder that is placed in your jaw. This cylinder acts as a substitute for tooth roots and can hold a replacement crown, bridge, or denture in your mouth permanently.
Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth. Since they are permanent, you can do most things – laugh, talk, eat, and smile – as you did with your natural teeth. Dental implants also keep your gum tissue healthy and help maintain the structure of your face.
Anyone at any age can have dental implants. If you are missing teeth or wear removable bridges or dentures, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cris. After examining your mouth, she will discuss the next treatment steps with you.
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How does an onlay differ from a crown?
An onlay is a tooth-shaped porcelain restoration that completely or partially covers the natural tooth. Dr. Cris usually suggests onlays over crowns when the exterior of your tooth is damaged, but the inner tissues are healthy. The onlay is then only placed on the part that is damaged or missing from the tooth.
Compared to crowns, onlays strengthen teeth by bonding directly to the tooth. They also don’t require the removal of tooth structure. Like porcelain crowns, onlays blend seamlessly in with your surrounding teeth.
If you need a crown and wonder if an onlay may be a better alternative, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cris by calling 949-581-1900.
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Dr. Cris recommended a nightguard. What is it and why do I need one?
A nightguard is a fitted plastic mouthpiece that you wear at night. If you are under stress, you may grind or clench your teeth unconsciously while you sleep. This can wear down your teeth as well as cause the muscles that control the jaw to become overworked and lead to headaches or jaw joint pain.
A nightguard provides a cushion to keep your teeth from grinding or your jaw from clenching while you sleep. Usually, Dr. Cris recommends one if she notices wear on your teeth during an exam or if you experience headaches and jaw joint pain.
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How can I safely whiten my teeth?
Dr. Cris has several treatments she can recommend. To remove stains from your teeth, she may recommend a one-hour whitening session. Our practice uses Opalescence to whiten our patients’ smiles. If your teeth are stained as well as cracked or chipped, Dr. Cris may recommend one of our restorative services, such as veneers or bonding.
Since each mouth is unique, Dr. Cris needs to evaluate your teeth to recommend the best treatment for you. You can schedule a consultation by calling our practice at 949-581-1900.
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My teeth are sensitive after I whiten them. What can I do?
Some people experience tooth sensitivity after they undergo a whitening treatment. With sensitivity, you may feel pain when you eat or drink cold, hot, sour, or sweet products. Usually, the sensitivity is mild and only lasts a day or two after whitening.
If you experience sensitivity, Dr. Cris recommends that you refrain from enjoying exceedingly hot or cold foods and beverages. You should also avoid highly acidic foods, such as citrus fruit, since these can increase sensitivity. To clean your teeth, Dr. Cris suggests that you use a soft bristled toothbrush, a desensitizing toothpaste, and fluoridated mouth rinse. If the sensitivity is persistent and last more then two days, call us immediately at 949-581-1900.
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