Exploring Dental Crown Options

Written by bfcdental on Wednesday, September 16, 2015 at 10:09 PM

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap/covering that is placed over your damaged tooth to improve its size, strength and appearance. A crown is cemented onto the tooth and it cannot be removed to clean as one can do with dentures. A dentist generally reduces the size of the natural tooth before taking its impression so that the dental crown fits properly. When you'll be informed that your tooth requires a crown, you must decide about what type of crown should be placed for long-lasting results. There are five different types of dental crowns including:
  • All porcelain/ceramic: This type of crown is made up of dental ceramic such as porcelain. All porcelain crowns are perfect for restoring front teeth because their color blends with the natural teeth. 
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal: Porcelain-fused-to-metal crown is a hybrid between all-metal and all-ceramic crowns. During the crown fabrication process, porcelain is fused to an underlying metal substructure in a high-heat furnace. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crown provides a stronger bond and is extremely durable.
  • Base metal alloys: This crown contains non-noble metals that are highly resistant to corrosion and provide great strength. A dentist would remove least amount of healthy tooth prior to the crown fitting. A crown made with base metal alloy is a perfect choice for damaged molars.
  • Gold alloys: Such crowns are comprised of gold, copper and other metals. Gold alloy crowns are not only resistant to fracture but also adhere strongly to the tooth structure. They are also biocompatible with your gum tissue.
  • All resin: This type of crown is the least expensive and wears down more easily.

With good oral hygiene and care, most crown dentures last for a longer period of time. Dental crowns not only make your teeth stronger but also make your smile more attractive. Consult with your dentist during initial visit about the type of crown you want or the cosmetic look you’ve in your mind for the crown.

A Guide to Mini Dental Implants

Written by bfcdental on at 9:49 PM

What are Mini Dental Implants?
Mini Dental Implants (MDI) are made of titanium that acts as tooth roots, but their size is half the width of traditional dental implants. They preserve the bone structure and function as an anchor for replacement teeth. The head of the MDI is shaped like a ball that acts as a socket for accommodating new or existing dentures or dental crowns.

MDI Advantages
  • MDI is designed to eliminate bone grafting and expedite recovery period
  • MDI is a minimally invasive surgical procedure and shortens the healing time
  • MDI eliminates slippage problems with existing dentures
  • Mini implant is fixed in your jawbone like a tooth root, and so you feel more comfortable and less discomfort
  • Mini dental implant failures and complications are rare
  • The MDI procedure is less costly and can be completed in one visit
Who should consider MDI?
If you have one or more missing teeth and are exploring options for restoring your smile, then you should consult your dentist about mini dental implants. Traditional dental implants are expensive. So, mini dental implants are suitable for people who cannot afford the cost of a full-sized implant or are not suitable for a conventional implant.

MDI Aftercare
  • It is advisable to restrict your diet to fluids and soft foods for the first day and then resume the normal diet the following day
  • Don’t smoke or use straw to drink water or fluids
  • Gentle rinsing of the mouth for 24 hours after the procedure is suggested
  • Take the antibiotics prescribed by your dentist to avoid pain and infection

Thanks to the easy placement procedure and high success rates, many dentists are now using mini dental implants in patients who are suitable for this prosthetic procedure.