Full Mouth Reconstruction: 4 FAQs

Full mouth reconstruction is a process of rebuilding and restoring teeth in the jaws. It is not a popular treatment option despite its effectiveness. If you are considering reconstructing your smile, find out more about the procedure. This will help you know what to expect.

Frequently asked questions

A lot of dental work may be required for a person to achieve oral health and a great smile. Full mouth reconstruction is a recommended treatment option for improving the health, function and appearance of the teeth and mouth. People usually ask many questions about the procedure. Some common questions have been answered below.

Who are the candidates of full mouth reconstruction?

It is recommended for people with multiple oral problems affecting most or all of their teeth. Based on studies there is a link between oral and systemic health. Such findings show that oral health is immensely important. The process can also help to eliminate the pain associated with poor oral health.

What does full mouth reconstruction accomplish?

The procedure restores, rebuilds or replaces teeth in the mouth. It can also help to remedy issues with the teeth, jaw joint or jaw muscles. There are several cases where it would be ideal. These include if someone has severely worn teeth, damaged teeth, missing teeth or broken teeth.

How does the process begin?

During an examination, a dentist will check the teeth of a patient to determine the restorative procedures that may be needed. The dentist will look out for any cavities and decay, cracks, tooth wear, root canal issues and any tooth movement. The dentist will also check if the gums are healthy. Another important step is the examination of the condition of jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints and occlusion. A stable bite is important for oral health. Occlusal changes have to be considered when the dentist plans for restorations.

The dentist will also examine the shape, color, size and proportion of the teeth and how they appear in relation to the gums, mouth, lips, face and side profile. These factors have to be considered in full mouth reconstruction. After getting all the information, the dentist will develop a comprehensive treatment plan. It will be used to correct problems and finish the reconstruction.

What are the differences between full mouth reconstruction and a smile makeover?

A full mouth reconstruction is something that a person needs. The process combines restorative and general dentistry treatments. People who opt for the treatment intend to have improved oral health and function and good teeth. The procedure usually takes several months.

A smile makeover is something that a person decides to have performed. It is done mainly to improve the appearance of the teeth and overall smile. A smile makeover often involves a combination of cosmetic dentistry treatments such as dental bonding and teeth whitening. It can transform the shape, size and color of the teeth but it does not address health or functional problems with the teeth, gums or the jaw. The procedures can be spaced out over weeks and even months.

Visit a dentist

Full mouth reconstruction can give you a healthy smile. It can address a variety of problems that you may have. If you require more information on the treatment, a visit to your dentist is needed. Your dentist will answer any of your questions.

Request an appointment here: or call All Brite Dental at (313) 562-3388 for an appointment in our Dearborn office.

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Dental Crowns: How Long Do They Last?

Dental crowns involve an intensive fitting procedure and often yield fantastic results for a smile. It is reasonable, then, to wonder how long a crown should last. Here is a brief summary of how long a dental crown’s average lifespan is, as well as some information about how a crown can be made to last longer.

How long do dental crowns last?

To be straightforward, a dental crown will not last forever, no matter how well it is fitted. The good news, however, is that they usually last a long time.

A crown’s average lifespan

Professionally-fitted dental crowns usually have about five to 15 years of longevity on average. Crowns are made of resilient materials, like porcelain or metal alloys, which allows them to stand up to a lot of potential wear and damage. Of course, crowns are also not indestructible, and they may need to be replaced for a variety of reasons.

Common reasons for replacement

A crown is in need of replacement when it showcases one or both of the telltale signs of significant damage or dental issues. Damage to the crown is often visible in the form of chips or cracks on the crown’s surface. These can be dangerous for several reasons. For one, chips off a crown can cause injury to the mouth due to sharp edges, or could even injure the throat if swallowed. A damaged crown also may create an opening through which the tooth it protects could be exposed to infection.

The second sign a crown needs replacement is any new pain, signs of infection or development of plaque around the base or ridges of the crown. This is an indicator that the tooth beneath may be infected or further damaged, and warrants both a replacement and dental attention to the tooth in question.

A crown’s lifespan can be extended

Thankfully, there are some steps that can be taken to extend a crown’s life. While it is not guaranteed your crown will last forever, proper care for it can keep it pearly white for several years.

Avoiding harmful habits

Dental crowns can be needlessly damaged by habits, including those a patient might not even be aware that they have. Examples of harmful habits to a crown’s health are improper or no brushing and flossing, habitual teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects.

The importance of regular dental visits

Consistently seeing a dentist for scheduled dental checkups and cleanings are also an important factor in a crown’s longevity. Dentists have the tools necessary to care both for natural teeth and dental crowns, and regular cleanings help to ward off any new infections that could develop in the mouth and spread, endangering both the crown and the tooth beneath it. A well-followed regimen of home brushing and flossing in conjunction with dental visits can keep a crown in place for years to come.

Do you currently need dental crowns?

If you are currently in need of dental crowns, we invite you to contact our office today to schedule a consultation with a dentist.

Request an appointment here: or call All Brite Dental at (734) 675-8844 for an appointment in our Brownstown Charter Twp office.

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What Are the Pros and Cons of Porcelain Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are one of the many options that someone can consider when in need of a dental restoration. In particular, dental crowns have certain types that one can consider, such as ones made out of porcelain. Just like with any dental appliance, porcelain dental crowns have pros and cons. 

In this article, we highlight the pros and cons of porcelain dental crowns so anyone considering their restoration options can be well informed. These contrasting features can help a person determine whether porcelain dental crowns are right for them. Keep reading to find out more!

What are the pros of porcelain dental crowns?

Natural looking

Porcelain dental crowns are tooth-colored, so many people are not able to tell when a person has porcelain dental crowns. Most say that these types of dental crowns are extremely realistic. The porcelain can be made to match the tone and translucence of dental ivory, which creates a natural-looking dental restoration.

Natural shape

When porcelain dental crowns are being placed, the dentist can shape and form the porcelain material around and on top of the tooth so it provides a natural fit. Both form and function can be restored through the use of a porcelain crown. 

Bio-compatible material 

Porcelain dental crowns are made of a bio-compatible material, which means that the body will likely not reject the restoration. The gums are unlikely to get irritated, and allergic reactions should not occur, which can be seen as a great advantage to someone who is fearful of such things. 

What are the cons of porcelain dental crowns?

Fragility

Porcelain is a very fragile material that is easily prone to damages. Dental crowns that are made of porcelain are more likely to crack or chip because of their fragility. Patients who choose porcelain dental crowns will have to take extra special care of their teeth to avoid damages.

Loss of natural tooth

When a person receives a dental crown, the dentist has to remove some of the natural parts of a person’s tooth so the restoration material is thicker. In the case of porcelain dental crowns, this is also true, except more of the natural tooth needs to be ground up compared to other materials.

An increase in sensitivity

Porcelain dental crowns often increase sensitivity in a person’s tooth. The sensitivity typically occurs because so much of the natural tooth is removed prior to the crown being placed.

Reach out to us!

Dental crowns that are made of porcelain have pros and cons, as does any dental restoration, but being aware of them can help someone when considering their dental crown options.

If you have questions about porcelain dental crowns, then reach out to us so we can help you. Let our trained professionals guide you through the porcelain dental crown procedure. Give us a call or stop by our office today to learn more about dental crowns and other dental procedures!

Request an appointment here: or call All Brite Dental at (313) 562-3388 for an appointment in our Dearborn office.

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Types of Gum Disease Treatment

Thanks to gum disease treatment, people with gingivitis or periodontitis can reverse or at least manage the symptoms of their condition. The early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, can be reversed by getting your teeth cleaned by a dentist and improving your oral hygiene. The more advanced stages of gum disease are not reversible, but they can be managed.

Procedures commonly used for gum disease treatment

1. Dental cleaning

A dental cleaning can be used to treat the first stage of gum disease. Getting teeth cleaned regularly and improving oral hygiene is often enough to reverse gingivitis. The dentist will educate the patient about how to improve their oral hygiene during the cleaning.

2. Scaling and root planing

This treatment is often recommended for those who have more advanced gum disease. The dentist uses a tool to remove tartar and plaque from teeth surfaces. This process is called scaling. The dentist will then smooth out the roots of the patient's teeth, which makes it easier for the gums to be reattached after the procedure.

The dentist might prescribe medication or antibiotics to help control the infection and reduce discomfort during the recovery period. Depending on the severity of the patient's condition, the dentist might insert medication into the gum pockets or prescribe an antibacterial mouthwash.

3. Periodontal surgery

If a deep cleaning is not enough to manage a patient's advanced gum disease, a surgical procedure might be recommended. During the surgery, the dentist will pull the patient's gums away from the teeth roots and remove tartar and plaque. The gums are stitched back into place afterward.

Surgical procedures can also be used to reduce gum pockets.

Life after gum disease treatment

Once a patient's periodontitis is brought under control, oral hygiene and regular cleanings become even more important. The dentist will typically perform a more extensive type of cleaning if the patient has a past history of gum disease. The cleanings help eliminate plaque and tartar buildup.

People who have advanced gum disease should be prepared to visit a dentist more often. The issues caused by gum disease, like gum pockets, make it harder to remove plaque from teeth surfaces. The dentist will come up with a treatment plan that is effective for the patient. Once the patient's gums are healthy, fewer dental visits will be required to keep them that way.

Some patients might be prescribed medication that helps them manage the discomfort caused by their infection or the infection itself. It is not uncommon for patients to experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods after getting gum disease treatment. That typically goes away in a few weeks.

Gum disease treatment is more effective when administered early

The longer you wait to have gum disease treated, the more invasive the treatments will be, and it might even become a permanent condition. Talk to a dentist if you have any symptoms of gum disease.

Let's get started …

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Uses for Mouth Guards

Mouth guards have many names – occlusal guard, night guard, bite guard, mouthpiece, occlusal splint – and function as a protective appliance to shield the teeth and gums from injury or damage. They are available in different forms, but the best and most effective type are those provided by the dentist.

Custom-made mouth guards are explicitly fabricated to match the patient’s teeth and bite to provide a proper fit and optimal protection. The patient will need to visit the dentist to have the impression of their teeth taken. This process is simple and takes about 15 minutes. The impression will be sent to the dental lab to create the mouth guard, which should be available in about a week. Mouth guards can be used for the upper or lower set of teeth or both.

Uses of mouth guards

Dental experts typically recommend mouth guards as a solution to many dental conditions, aside from their use by athletes for protection. The dentist may recommend the device for any of the following conditions:

Bruxism

This is the medical term for teeth grinding or clenching. Teeth grinding occurs unconsciously during sleep or in the daytime when the person feels stressed. This condition causes enamel deterioration, and without a protective shield, it can cause a chipped or cracked tooth. Damaged enamel cannot be repaired and must be replaced with a restoration such as dental crowns or veneers. Fixing the teeth is usually expensive if not inconvenient.

A mouth guard can reduce the effects of bruxism by serving as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, so they do not hit against each other. It removes the pressure off the jaws and prevents damage. Since teeth grinding while sleeping is inadvertent, the surest and safest way to protect the teeth is by wearing a device that keeps the teeth apart.

TMJ disorder

The temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the rest of the skull. Wearing a mouthpiece, in this case, helps to relieve pressure on the TMJ and alleviate strain. Also, persistently clenching the jaws while sleeping or when upset can cause headaches, soreness in the jaw joints and facial muscles and TMJ disorder, which may result in severe pain in the neck, jaw and face.

Application of medications

Topical medications such as corticosteroids and pastes for oral conditions are sometimes better applied using a bite guard. The drug is applied to the guard and worn over the teeth to keep the medicine in place over the teeth and gums.

Prevent dental injuries

People who participate in high-impact routines such as sports can prevent injuries to their teeth by wearing mouth guards. The device will be a protective barrier to rebuff any possible force to the teeth.

Aesthetics and protection

Just as mouth guards are used for delivering medications, they can also be used to apply bleaching materials for whitening the teeth.

Final note

If you think you or a loved one might benefit from wearing mouth guards, contact your dentist to have a custom guard created.

Request an appointment here: or call All Brite Dental at (313) 562-3388 for an appointment in our Dearborn office.

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What is a Soft and a Hard Denture Reline?

Dentures are designed to fit a patient’s gums perfectly when first inserted. But, a reline becomes necessary as the gums and jawbone slowly adjust over time due to aging and the process of reabsorption.

When a tooth is extracted from the gums, the leftover alveolar bone tissue breaks down and disperses this matter throughout the rest of the body. This causes the density and shape of the gums to alter, which causes misalignment and discomfort.

Patients can opt for either a hard or soft denture reline depending on their situation and preferences.

Hard and Soft Denture Relines

The following are explanations of these two types of denture relining procedures.

What is a hard denture reline?

A hard denture reline can be a great option for patients who want a long-lasting solution for relining dentures without a completely brand new fitting.

However, patients who experience extreme discomfort with the fittings may not find the desired level of relief with this type of reline.

The process of performing a hard reline starts with the dentist removing some of the hard plastic from the inside of the prosthetics. Next, the dentist places putty on any area that makes contact with the tissue and waits until it hardens to a rubbery consistency.

To make an impression of the exact shape of the gums, the dentist places the dentures with putty into the patient’s mouth. The lab technician or dentist then uses this model to recreate a hard acrylic version of the impression that mimics the material of the original denture base.

What is a soft denture reline?

A soft denture reline is often the preferred procedure for patients. This type of relining may only last a year or two and requires more adjustments than a hard reline.

But, the end result is typically more comfortable. Patients who have very tender gums or reoccurring sore spots can benefit from getting a soft reline.

Additionally, patients who have received dentures more recently should choose a soft reline due to the especially high rates of bone absorption occurring during this time. For a soft reline, a more porous, softer material is used instead of acrylic to help provide enhanced comfort.

The Difference Between a Laboratory and Chairside Reline

Depending on the dental office and condition of the patient’s dentures, procedures may either be completed in-office or at a laboratory.

A chairside reline, or a reline performed entirely by the dentist during the visit, can be used for small adjustments or a partial relining. Patients can leave with the realigned dentures the same day.

A laboratory relining, on the other hand, is necessary for full relines and can take a full day or longer before the dental prosthetics are returned to the patient.

Conclusion

If at any point dentures start to feel uncomfortable, then it is time to visit the dentist. Discuss getting a denture relining to help the prosthetics better fit gums as they shift and change.

After discussing the patient’s personal history and history, the dentist can help decide whether a soft or a hard reline is the better option.

Why Should You Seek Help For Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects millions of adults in America. The condition causes people to stop breathing temporarily when they are asleep because their airway gets blocked, preventing them from getting a good night’s rest. Due to the lack of sleep, people who suffer from sleep apnea have trouble staying awake during the day, which has a negative impact on their health.

Six reasons why you should seek help for your sleep apnea

Some of the reasons people that have been diagnosed with sleep apnea need to treat the disorder include:

1. Being energized during the day

Sleep apnea forces people to wake up multiple times while they are asleep to resume breathing, which leaves them fatigued during the day. In some cases, the fatigue could endanger their lives and the lives of others if they operate heavy machinery at work. It can cause serious injury or death if they fall asleep while driving. Treating the sleep apnea will allow the patient to get adequate rest at night and leave them feeling energized during the day.

2. Better performance at work/school

The lack of adequate sleep leads to trouble concentrating and memory problems, which affects the patient’s ability to focus at work or at school, negatively affecting their productivity and performance. Treating the disorder allows the patient’s brain to rest while they sleep instead of being distracted with continuously waking them up to breath, which improves their performance at work or at school.

3. Protecting long-term health

Studies have shown that untreated sleep apnea can cause significant health problems, which include:

• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Stroke
• Heart failure

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, studies show that people with moderate or severe sleep apnea are four times more likely to die, nearly four times more likely to have a stroke and three times more likely to die from cancer.

4. Avoiding headaches

One of the most common symptoms people with sleep apnea deal with are headaches in the morning. The headaches occur because of the failure to breathe while sleeping increases the carbon dioxide levels in the blood while reducing the oxygen levels. This causes the blood vessels to dilate, causing vascular headaches. The headaches are usually gone about an hour after the patient wakes up because regular breathing returns the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels to normal.

5. Uninterrupted sleep

Sleep apnea prevents people from sleeping peacefully, making them irritable and tired during the day. Treating the disorder significantly reduces the number of nocturnal awakenings they experience, allowing them to get the rest that they need.

6. Partner’s sleep health

A person dealing with sleep apnea is not the only one affected by the disorder. Their partner also has to deal with the loud snoring and interrupted sleep, which also prevents them from getting the rest that they need. Treating the disorder improves the quality of sleep for both the patient and their partner.

Conclusion

Sleep apnea can lead to significant health problems if left untreated, which is why people who have the disorder are advised to get treatment. If you have trouble sleeping and think you have sleep apnea, schedule an appointment with your doctor to get checked out.

Request an appointment here: or call All Brite Dental at (313) 562-3388 for an appointment in our Dearborn office.

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5 Tips for Reversing Tooth Decay

If your visit to the dentist revealed that you have dental cavities, you have to start considering different ways to reverse the tooth decay process. Of course, while we were young, we all heard that sugars are harmful to our teeth. That did not exactly discourage us from eating candy, though. The fact is that sugars and carbs mix with bacteria to form plaque that sticks to our teeth and along the gum line. The bacterial plaque and the sugar combine to generate acids that attack the tooth enamel and cause dental decay. Aside from regularly brushing and flossing your teeth, the following tips will help reverse the formation of tooth decay.

How to combat tooth decay

Your drink choices matter

The best drink for combating cavities is water. Water is useful for neutralizing acids and cleaning your mouth when the conditions are not exactly suitable for proper brushing. It also prevents dry mouth by increasing the production of saliva, which is the mouth’s natural cleanser. Another excellent way to prevent sugary or acidic drinks from harming your tooth enamel is by using a straw when drinking. Using a straw limits the drink that contacts your teeth by sending the liquid straight to the throat.

Consume healthy meals

You should consider switching your meals to more nutritious ones in addition to increasing your water intake. Also, attempt to reduce the number of carbs you consume, including foods with high sugar and acid content.

Get a good toothbrush

Can you remember the last time you changed your toothbrush? Old toothbrushes often have frayed bristles and collect bacteria over time. This means they will not clean your teeth properly, and they may end up reintroducing bacteria into your mouth. Ideally, you should replace your toothbrush every three months, and especially after suffering from an oral infection, cold or virus. Select a toothbrush that is comfortable and does not abrade your gums. Brushing and flossing are the most essential tools for fighting cavities.

Get sugarless gum

You may find yourself wondering how chewing gum can help with proper oral care, but popping a sugarless gum after a meal is actually good for preventing cavities. Many varieties of these gums have xylitol, a natural sweetener. Xylitol helps to prevent the formation of plaque and makes it harder for it to bind to the teeth. Studies have shown that xylitol is an effective preventive agent. The act of chewing gum also increases saliva production in the mouth, which consequently helps to clean away food debris.

Get antacids to combat excess acid

If you are battling acid reflux disease, you should consider taking antacids to help regulate the acidic situation in the stomach. The reflux of acid to the mouth covers the teeth in caustic material that causes enamel deterioration, leading to tooth sensitivity and decay.

In conclusion

The tips listed above help reverse tooth decay. You should remember to book regular appointments with the dentist for cleanings and checkups to ensure your oral cavity is in excellent condition.

Request an appointment here: or call All Brite Dental at (734) 675-8844 for an appointment in our Brownstown Charter Twp office.

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How Hard is it to Find a Kid Friendly Dentist?

Starting at age one, children need to visit a kid friendly dentist to regularly examine emerging teeth and have any dental problems addressed. Although young children do not have a full set of teeth until three years old and only have baby teeth until age 12, tooth decay and root canals are still a concern. Finding a dentist for children can be difficult. Here are some tips for choosing the right dentist for a child’s first dental exam.

Choosing a pediatric dentist or a general kid friendly dentist

When searching for a kid friendly dentist, parents can choose to take children to either a pediatric dentist or a general dentist. Since some young children might be anxious about visiting a dentist or have special needs, parents need to decide the best choice for their child. Continue reading to learn the difference between these two types of dentists and the possible benefits of each.

Pediatric dentist

A pediatric dentist is a type of dentist who specializes in the oral health of children ranging from infancy age to adolescence. A pediatric dentist is often the best choice since these dentists receive special training in caring specifically for the teeth of children. For infants, toddlers and young children, pediatric dentists can examine the effects of habits such as using a pacifier or thumb-sucking and offer advice on how to prevent potential dental issues.

These dentists also help identify the need for orthodontics early on due to issues such an improper bite and treat any cavities or other defects that develop. Additionally, a pediatric office is typically decorated in a way that appeals to children and might even include games or fun prizes to keep children entertained.

General dentist

Many parents choose to take children to a general dentist instead of a pediatric one. While these dentists are not trained specifically in caring for children’s teeth, a general dentist can still provide adequate or even exceptional oral health care. The main benefit of choosing a general dentist over a pediatric dentist is that families can all visit the same office and be treated by a dentist that parents have already made a relationship with.

Parents should try to choose a kid friendly office that is willing to accommodate children and allows parents or adult to accompany kids into the treatment room. Fun decorations, televisions and toys are great additional perks as well and help ease any anxieties a child might have.

Conclusion

Choosing the right kid friendly dentist depends on the dental needs of the child and the parent’s preference. While a pediatric dentist should have the knowledge and training necessary to address common oral health problems among children and help kids develop great dental hygiene habits, many general dentists are also willing to accommodate children and can allow families to make a single dental visit together. No matter what type of dentist parents choose, it is important to find an office that provides excellent care to children and works to keep kids comfortable during each visit.

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