Diastemas and Treatment Options

One of the first treatment options for diastemas (gaps between teeth) is orthodontics, but the downside of this option is treatment can take one to two years and costs can come in at a price between 10,000 to 20,000 Yuan. That is why many patients now choose veneers over orthodontics. So how much do veneers cost and how many do you need?

Many people have problems with gaps between their teeth in particularly those who have several gaps which are rather large, for example a gap between the front teeth. In this type of situation it is often recommended to patients who want the gaps repaired instantaneously that veneers are the best option. But just how much are the costs?  

How Many Veneers are Needed?

The number of veneers needed will depend on the patient’s requirement. If the gap is big and the shape and shade of the teeth are normal then only two veneers for the front teeth are needed. By making the veneers slightly larger than the front teeth this can cover the diastemas. For those who are worried that two veneers won’t have good results they can decide to have four veneers fitted. For the perfect smile patients can choose to have veneers fitted on the teeth that are on show when they smile.

How Much Do Veneers Cost?

The costs of veneers are based on the number of veneers you get fitted and also the materials you choose, there is a big price difference between composite resin veneers and porcelain veneers. Composite resin veneers have costs starting at over 1,000 Yuan whereas porcelain veneer costs start at 3,000 to 4,000 Yuan. The price of veneers are based on per tooth.

For those who are interested in getting veneers it’s best to book an appointment and consultation with a professional dentist and you can ask for more advice about your options and the types of veneers that fit into your budget. 

Topical Fluoride Necessary for Kids?

By applying topical fluoride to teeth cannot completely prevent cavities, so what's the point in the treatment? Many parents question what’s the point in fluoride treatment?

For first time parents there is always the urge to ask "experienced parents" for advice, however it’s always best to seek the advice of professionals. There has been a heated discussion between parents about whether it’s beneficial for kids having topical fluoride treatment as it does not completely prevent cavities. There’s also parents who say that children lose their milk teeth at the age of 6 so there’s no need for topical fluoride treatment.


However, scientifically speaking applying topical fluoride to the surface of teeth is like a protective cover. This can strengthen the mineral content of the enamel which makes it a preventive method for cavities.


Benefits of Fluoride Treatment for Children


1. There’s a difference between applying topical fluoride as it can prevent cavities and provides children with a protective layer over their teeth.


2. Are the results of topical fluoride treatment worth it? Firstly the topical fluoride treatment should be applied by a professional dentist and experienced dental clinic. Also parents must understand that after applying fluoride children must also continue to have good dental hygiene just because topical fluoride has been applied this is no excuse for not brushing.


3. Applying topical fluoride usually takes only a few minutes and can come in the form of gel, foam or varnish and it’s non-invasive.


4. Althought children loose their milk teeth around the age of 6, for all milk teeth to be completely lost will be when the child is about 12 years old so as a preventive measure until all the permanent teeth come in it is rather beneficial to have topical fluoride treatment.

Atraumatic Extraction Vs Normal Extraction

The thought of having a tooth extracted is enough to make most people stressed and worried about the pain. What most people don’t know is there are now several methods which can alleviate the pain. So which method is used for extracting wisdom teeth?   

The normal extraction method has always been considered rather brutal but today most tooth extractions are done using the minimally invasive extraction method. So what’s the difference between the two methods?

Difference Between Atraumatic Extraction & Normal Extraction

In normal tooth extraction forceps, elevators, chisels and other instruments are used and is rather traumatic. Atraumatic extractions use vertical forces causing minimal damage.

The pain in normal tooth extraction is much more painful and will take longer to heal. In comparison atraumatic extraction with minimal damage and invasive technique pain and healing time is much shorter.

Complications with atraumatic extraction is less likey to happen due to the dentist’s  minimally invasive techniques and aseptic procedures.

Atraumatic extraction is now widely used especially when extracting wisdom teeth, impacted tooth and difficult to remove tooth. Normal extractions are now less commonly used unless it’s a simple tooth extraction.

There is a difference in costs, normal extractions can start at a few hundred Yuan, however atraumatic extractions cost over a thousand Yuan due to the requirements of the skills and techniques of the dentist.

Normal extraction scan take anywhere from 1 hour to 2 hour, whereas atraumatic extraction can take as little as 15 minutes to 30 minutes. 

What to Avoid After Teeth Whitening Treatment

What foods should you avoid after teeth whitening treatment? Generally speaking food or beverages that easily stain should not be eaten too often. You should pay more attention to brushing teeth and oral hygiene. If not you will have to go through cold-light whitening treatment again.

  

Most people know that after teeth whitening treatment you need to look after your teeth for the results to last. However, in reality most people don’t know where to begin. For example after teeth whitening treatment what can you eat and what you should avoid. Below we will go through a few of the things you should avoid after treatment.

Why Should You Avoid Certain Foods After Treatment?

It’s advised that after whitening treatment certain foods and drinks should be avoided.

1. Smoking and tea should be avoided at all costs, doesn’t matter what type of whitening treatment you had done but these habits should be broken.

2. Don’t eat dark colored foods on the long-term, if you can’t completely cut out these foods you should brush and rinse your teeth after eating these foods.

3. Cut out foods that are hard, such as nuts, crabs and crayfish. This is to avoid cracking a crown or veneer.  

As explained above there is a definite need to make changes to eating habits after teeth whitening treatment. The consequences of not cutting back are teeth will start to stain turning yellow or black.

If cold-light whitening results are not obvious, the treatment can be redone, unlike veneers and crowns which require enamel to be removed, cold-light whitening treatment is safe and non invasive. 

The Costs of Zirconia Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can come in a range of different materials but zirconia crowns are considered the one of the best options as it’s extremely strong and shades can be matched to existing teeth. However, the biggest consideration is price as zirconia crowns are more expensive.

Zirconia crowns are a type of porcelain dental crown and is known for its durability and its biocompatibility. Although zirconia dental crowns have its advantages most patients are focused on the price.  

What are Zirconia Dental Crowns?

Zirconia is made from biocompatible materials that have similar properties to those of titanium. This type of dental crown also has hypoallergenic properties meaning patients are much less likely to suffer from an allergic reaction to zirconia. More importantly zirconia crowns are metal-free so they won’t interfere in x-rays, CT scans or MRI scans. Another highlight of zirconia crowns is there strength, durability and resistance to temperatures.

Costs of Zirconia Dental Crowns

Normally, zirconia dental crown prices depend on the brand, the number of crowns being fitted and different regions.

1. The best known zirconia dental crown brands are 3M Lava, Cercon, Wieland and Sirona. Prices vary due to workmanship and brand. The price can range from about 3,000 Yuan to 10,000 Yuan.

2. In terms of quantity, the number of zirconia crowns fitted will directly affect the price. In most cases the price is based on per crown. However, this will obviously involve the specific situation of the teeth. For example if you patients were to consider a crown or a dental bridge, this would mean a decision of 1 crown or 3 crowns, this would directly affect the costs.

3. In different regions of China, the is a big difference in price when making comparisons with first and second tier cities with third and fourth tier cities. Price are comparatively cheaper in third and fourth tier cities. However, it’s best to consider the techniques and skills of the dentists.

Getting a Porcelain Crown on Your Tooth

What to do if your tooth has cracked or broken? Is it best to get crown? This is a question that a lot of patients ask but before getting a crown you will have to have the enamel removed. In some cases you will need to get root canal treatment before fitting a crown.

After root canal treatment if you didn’t get a crown fitted this may result in the tooth being fragile and this can result in a cracked or broken tooth. Is it still possible to get a crown after the tooth has cracked or broken? Although it’s best to get a crown after root canal treatment but it’s still possible to get a crown after the tooth is broken.

How is a Crown Fitted?

Getting a crown fitted after root canal treatment can fully protect the tooth, using a porcelain crown instead of a traditional crown which aesthetically speaking is a lot more obvious. However, depending on the situation of the tooth different treatments will be done before the crown can be fitted.  

1. If it’s only a small area of the tooth that is broken or loose and no symptoms of pain when you bite down and it has been confirmed that there are no apical lesions. The area of damage can be removed and a porcelain crown can be fitted.

2. If the tooth has split into two parts and is loose accompanied with swelling, pain and the crack is deep then the pulp tissue has been damaged and possibly the root. After a examination and root canal treatment and fitting a crown can save the tooth.

3. If the tooth has split or right down the middle and the crack reaches the gum and it’s completely loose then the tooth might not be able to be preserved. If the tooth needs to be removed then the possibility of dentures will need to be considered.

Of course the treatment methods mentioned above are just suggestions and overall treatment and solutions can only be provided by a professional dentist with regards to the patient’s situation.

How Serious is Periapical Periodontitis?

Periapical periodontitis is an a inflammation of a tooth root which is usually caused by bacterial invasion of the pulp of the tooth. Pericapical periodontitis should be taken seriously and should be treated as soon as possible. Periapical periodontitis is more commonly known as apical periodontitis (AP).

How does Periapical Periodontitis Affect the Teeth?

Periapical periodontitis occurs when there is infection of the pulp of the tooth. If not properly treated it can evolve into chronic apical periodontitis which can lead to infections reoccurring and causing Pustule formation. In children when cavities are severe dental fistulas may occur.  

In the diagram above you can see the different stages of tooth decay, if it develops into periapical periodontitis this is a very serious problem to the teeth and require a visit to the dentist for examination and treatment.

How is Periapical Periodontitis Treated?

Periapical Periodontitis is treated by drilling open the tooth and removing the nerve and pulp and using medication to disinfect the pulp chamber. Once pain and symptoms have subsided the root canals will be filled and the tooth will be restored. After, there might also be the need for a crown to be fitted depending on the damage of the tooth.

So can periapical periodontitis be treated successfully? This will depend on the skills of your dentist and the severity of your case. In most cases after a scan a dentist will do his best to preserve the tooth, but if the treatment is not successful then the tooth must be removed.

Tips: Periapical periodontitis is rather complicated so it’s best to get in contact with your dentist as soon as you think there is problem so it can be treated early on meaning results are more successful.

The Causes of Loose & Shifting Teeth

Loose posterior teeth is linked with age? This is not necessarily the case as loose posterior teeth can be linked with dental or oral disease. When treated early on results are very positive.

Gingival recession also known as receding gums is the exposure in the roots of the teeth caused by a loss of gum tissue. Most people think that this is normal, in a lot of cases gingival recession which leads to loose shifting teeth is actually linked to dental and oral diseases.  

The main role of the posterior teeth is for chewing and if the teeth become loose this will affect your chewing abilities and the absorption of nutrients. If dental and oral diseases are not treated and left to linger this will lead to the eventual loss of the tooth. With missing a tooth or teeth you will have to go through the prospects of dentures, another lot of problems to consider!

First thing you need to know is that your loose tooth or teeth is not to do with your age and it is not considered normal! This should be a warning sign that there is something wrong with your teeth so you need to make an appointment to see a dentist. Below are the two main reasons for loose teeth.  

1. Gum Disease

Symptoms include tender or swollen gums, receding gums and loose teeth. However, these symptoms can also be similar when there are serious cavities which can result in toothache and other symptoms. After treatment the bacteria will be eliminated and the problem of loose and shifting teeth will have improved.  

2. Cavities

Severe cavities can affect the roots of a tooth this is usually about stage 5 of tooth decay when the infection has reached the root tip of the tooth. When toothache becomes unbearable then that is a sign that the cavity is severe. Once cavities are treated this can also treat the problem of loose teeth.

Doesn’t matter what age you are once you have discovered that your gums are receding and the teeth are loose it’s time book an appointment to see the dentist. Don’t ever think that it’s normal!   

How Much Do Discreet Braces Cost?

Many people often want braces to achieve the best results for straightening teeth. However, the biggest concern for most people is the stigma attached to wearing braces. Luckily, there are now options of “barely there” braces for those who want a discreet option of straightening teeth.

Traditional braces are notorious for being way too noticeable leading to the unsightly metal mouth look. So to combat the unattractive traditional braces there are now discreet braces which can cater to those who want straight teeth but don’t want the metal mouth look.  

Here are the top 3 undercover braces:  

1. Ceramic Braces  

Ceramic braces are similar to traditional braces instead they have clear of ceramic brackets which makes them less noticeable. But the wires are still noticeable so in terms of discreetness if you’re looking for the “barely there” look then ceramic braces are still visible. The costs of ceramic braces are approximately between 20,000 Yuan to 30,000 Yuan.

2. Invisalign

Invisalign are clear aligners made of flexible plastic which is a patented thermoplastic material called SmartTrack. The clear aligners will gradually shift the teeth and being almost invisible unless someone get very close, it has become one of the most popular options. Prices for Invisaglin range between 30,000 Yuan to 40,000 Yuan.

3．Lingual Braces

Lingual orthodontic treatment is where braces are fitted behind the teeth (by the tongue and palate) which makes it discreet for patients who don’t want braces on show. In comparison with the two previous options, lingual braces are actually the most discreet as they are fitted behind the teeth. Lingual braces are the most expensive with prices starting at 60,000 Yuan to 70,000 Yuan.

Discreet braces come with a bigger price tag than traditional braces. For more information about which option is better for you it’s best to book an appointment with an orthodontist who can give you professional advice and help you budget which means you know what to expect.

Extracting Teeth Means a Slimmer Face?

Extracting teeth is linked to a slimmer face? Removing wisdom teeth will slim your face? The answer is removing teeth and a slimmer face are not linked. Therefore, for those who want to slim their face extracting teeth is not an option.

Everyday many patients ask the same question if removing their teeth can give them a slimmer face. Today, we will discuss whether extracting teeth can change facial structures.

Pulling Out Your Teeth Will Not Give You A Slimmer Face  

Removing your teeth is a quick fix to a slimmer face? The answer is no, facial structures and face shape is down to bone structure and not teeth, teeth are only play a supporting role. It doesn’t matter if you remove normal teeth or wisdom teeth this cannot give you a slimmer face.

Why Do Celebrities Claim Removing Teeth Slimmed Their Face?

Celebrities often claim that they improved their overall facial structures through dental procedures but this does not mean just removing teeth. Also, let’s be realistic celebrities are likely to have gone through other cosmetic procedures which they are not going to share with the public.  

Why Do Friends Say They Feel Their Face is Slimmer After Removing Teeth?

This is an illusion, after having teeth removed it will affect eating and in the case of removing wisdom teeth the pain can take up to 2 weeks to subside. With eating less and swelling going down it may give the impression that the face is slimmer.

Overbite Before & After

 

Orthodontic Procedures Extracting Teeth Slims the Face?

As mentioned above removing teeth will not slim the face but through orthodontic treatment the face may become slimmer. Orthodontic procedures can solve problems such as malocclusion which can affect face shape but after removal of teeth and braces it can improve one third of the face. Of course, this will depend on the severity of malocclusion and if this has directly impacted aesthetics.