Dental Implants 101: The Complete Guide

Implants are becoming increasingly popular among patients. In the past few years, the cost of dental implants has also been declining. Whether you’re contemplating a single implant or multiple implants, it’s time for us to help you determine if dental implants are the correct choice for you.

Many of the problems that people have with their teeth and smile can be remedied with dental implants. In most circumstances, dental implants are the most durable and low-maintenance option for replacing missing teeth. However, prior to any surgical operation, patients typically have a number of questions. At Dentnearme, we strive to make the dental implant treatment as straightforward and comfortable for our patients as feasible. Continue reading the Dentnearme Guide to Dental Implants to gain a comprehensive understanding of dental implants.

 

How Long Does the Placement of Dental Implants Take

On average, dental implant treatments need one to two hours per implant, or one to two hours each “tooth.” In most circumstances, only the screw-like post and not the final dental crown will be present. Most dentists will wait roughly three months after implant placement before installing the dental crown. This 90-day waiting period ensures that the implant is adequately healed and osseointegrated prior to the placement of the final replacement tooth.

 

What Are Dental Implants Made Of

Dental implants consist of two components: the roots and the crowns. The tooth roots for dental implants are produced from titanium alloy, the same material used for shoulder implants, knee implants, hip implants, and all other medical operations. Titanium is utilized for dental implants since it is now one of the most biocompatible metals.

In contrast, the crowns, which are the portion of dental implants that are visible, are made of porcelain. Porcelain is an excellent material for artificial teeth due to its durability, longevity, and ability to closely match the color of your natural teeth. The same material is used for veneers, another common false tooth operation.

 

Are Dental Implants Painful

Thanks to the local anesthetic used during dental implant treatments, you should experience minimal discomfort as an incision is made in the gums and implants are inserted into the jawbone. You may feel some pressure in the area where the root is being inserted during your dental implant process.

 

What is the Lifespan of Dental Implants

With routine brushing, flossing, and biannual visits to the dentist, the dental implant screws can last a lifetime. These implants are constructed to be as durable as possible and integrate into the jawbone. Furthermore, with the same level of care, dental crowns can endure up to twenty years. Similar to regular veneers, the crown may need to be changed after this period owing to general wear and tear.

How Soon after Dental Implants can Normal Eating be Resumed

It takes around one week for dental implants to heal sufficiently for patients to resume their normal diet. Your dentist will determine when you can resume your normal diet, so be sure to attend all of your follow-up appointments to ensure that the dental implants have healed properly. When your dentist gives you the all-clear, you may resume your regular diet.

The Actual Story Behind “Teeth In A Day”

The expression “teeth in a day” is commonly associated with dental implant operations. The concept of “teeth in a day” is not totally accurate because these procedures are frequently not intended to be permanent. Many dentists will offer a temporary mold to conceal the implant post while the implant is integrating with the bone. At Lakeway Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer these temporary molds while the implant post heals. However, these are not your permanent teeth, and you will need to return in 90 days once the implant or implants have fully healed.

Why You Should Consider Getting Dental Implants

You have three primary alternatives for tooth replacement:

Dental implant

Fixed dental bridge fused to adjacent teeth

Removable dental appliance, also called a partial or complete denture

Dentures are the least preferred option for replacing missing teeth because having a removable appliance in your mouth can be uncomfortable. Additionally, dentures can alter the sensory perception and flavor of food.

Before dental implants became widespread, bridges were the most common choice for replacing missing teeth. However, bridgework requires the support of your natural teeth. Dental implants require just bone for support and have no effect on adjacent natural teeth.

You may be wondering at this point, “Why should I have dental implants?”

Numerous factors influence which option you select, including:

Your health: The location of your missing tooth or teeth, as well as the quality and quantity of your jawbone where the dentist would place an implant, can help determine which option is best for you.

Implants are likely to be more expensive initially, but they will not require replacement as frequently as bridges or dentures.

Dentists utilize dental implants to replace one or more teeth, and in certain instances, all of the teeth. The purpose of tooth replacement is to restore function and improve appearance. In addition, not replacing lost teeth can be detrimental.

Dental implants are a conservative alternative due to the fact that the dentist may restore missing teeth without modifying or harming neighbouring teeth. And because they merge into the bone structure, they are extremely stable and feel and look identical to natural teeth.

 

Dental Implants Benefits

Among the numerous advantages of dental implants are:

Since dental implants are permanent, they eliminate the discomfort detachable dentures would cause.

Improved appearance: Dental implants feel and appear identical to natural teeth. Due to their fusion with bone, they are permanent.

With dentures that slide, chewing might be challenging. Implants function similarly to natural teeth and allow you to chew all types of food painlessly and with confidence.

Dentures that do not fit properly might cause your teeth to slip within your mouth, causing you to slur or mumble your words. However, implants allow you to talk with confidence because they do not slip.

With implants, the dentist does not have to decrease adjacent teeth, as they would with a tooth-supported bridge. Since implants do not require the dentist to change adjacent teeth, more of your natural teeth are preserved and your long-term oral health is enhanced. Individual implants also provide simpler access between teeth, hence enhancing dental hygiene.

Implants help restore your smile and boost your self-esteem, allowing you to feel more positive about yourself.

Due to their high durability, implants will survive for many years. With careful maintenance, they might last a lifetime.

You must remove your dentures, which can be inconvenient and embarrassing. Implants eliminate the unsightly inconvenience and do not require messy or sticky adhesives to stay in place, unlike dentures.

The Various Forms of Dental Implants

Let’s go over your dental implant choices. There are a variety of implant types. Regular or conventional dental implants and all-on-four dental implants are two prevalent types.

1. Regular Dental Implants

Regular dental implants can be paired with implant-supported bridges or dental crowns to replace numerous or single teeth, respectively. A minimum of two surgical procedures are required for the placement of conventional dental implants.

The planning of the dental implant operation may involve several sorts of specialists, such as:

A dentist who specializes in the treatment of tooth-supporting structures.

A physician who specializes in problems of the jaw, mouth, and face (maxillofacial and oral surgeon).

A dentist who fabricates and fits false teeth (prosthodontist).

A expert in the ear, nose, and throat (ENT).

Since implants do require many procedures, you’ll need a thorough evaluation so the dentist can arrange the treatment, which will include:

A review of your medical history: You must advise your dentist of any health conditions or medications you take, including over-the-counter, prescription, and dietary supplements. If you have orthopedic implants or a heart disease, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to avoid infection before your operation.

The dentist may request dental 3D photographs, X-rays, and models of your jaw and teeth as part of a comprehensive dental exam.

Plan de treatment: The dentist will customize your treatment plan based on characteristics such as the state of your jawbone, the number of teeth that need to be replaced, and your remaining teeth.

Individuals who may be ideal candidates for conventional dental implants have:

More or several missing teeth

Significant bone density for implant support

The necessity to replace missing teeth with porcelain crowns or bridges

 

2. All-On-Four Dental Implants

If you lack the majority or all of your natural teeth, you may choose all-on-four dental implants. This type allows the dentist to more effectively secure your replacement teeth than other sorts.

All-on-four implants are a revolutionary method that allows even patients with substantial bone loss to replace all of their missing teeth. The foundation of the all-on-four implant surgery is the osseointegration process, in which your jawbone attaches to the implant’s surface and makes it a permanent part of your mouth.

While the all-on-four implant surgery has significant advantages, not everyone is a good candidate for this treatment. If you meet the following criteria, you may be an excellent candidate for all-on-four dental implants:

Replace an entire set of teeth or the entire arch

Presently use dentures but are unhappy with the fit or maintenance requirements

Lack the necessary bone density to support a high number of conventional implants.

All-on-four implants are an alternate option for patients who cannot or do not wish to undertake extensive implant operations requiring bone augmentation, numerous implants, or soft tissue regeneration.

All-on-four implant treatment is particularly successful for patients with inadequate bone volume or quality, or in situations where bone augmentation is impractical or contraindicated. This approach permits physically longer implant insertion, which gives additional support and anchorage while preserving anatomical components.

How Standard Dental Implants Operate

Ordinarily, the dentist performs a standard implant treatment on an outpatient basis in stages, allowing the patient time to heal between operations.

 

The installation of dental implants requires numerous steps:

1. Preparation of the Maxilla

To complete this first procedure, your dentist must extract the affected tooth. Before undergoing implant surgery, bone grafting may be necessary if your jawbone is too soft or lacks the proper thickness. A bone graft might strengthen the implant’s foundation.

 

2. Implantation of a Dental Implant

During the implant placement operation, the dentist will make an incision in the gum to expose the bone. They will drill into the bone and install the metal post. As the post serves as the tooth’s root, the dentist will implant it firmly into the jawbone.

At this stage, you will still have a gap where your tooth used to be. If you like, the dentist can place a temporary partial denture for aesthetic purposes. Dentures can be removed for cleaning and when sleeping.

 

3. Awaiting Bone Development

The osseointegration process begins once the dentist implants the metal post into your jawbone. During this phase, your jawbone will begin to grow into and attach itself to the implant’s surface. This aids in establishing a strong foundation for your new restoration or artificial tooth, similar to how natural tooth roots function.

 

4. Setting up the Abutment

After the osseointegration process is complete, you may need additional surgery so the dentist may install the abutment, the portion to which the crown will be attached. This is an outpatient procedure needing only local anesthetic and a simple surgical procedure.

 

During the placement of the abutment:

The dentist will reopen the gum in order to expose the implant.

The abutment will be attached to the implant.

The gum tissue will be closed around the abutment, but not above it.

 

5. Attaching the Replacement Tooth

Your gums must recover for a few weeks after the placement of the abutment before the dentist can attach the fake tooth.

 

How All-On-Four Implants Function

There may be subtle differences in the all-on-four implant method from one dental clinic to another, but the normal procedure consists of three phases:

The dentist extracts the tooth or teeth that are damaged, decayed, or otherwise compromised. Additionally, they will remove any diseased or damaged tissue.

Two titanium implants will be placed in the front of your jaw, where there is typically a higher percentage of atrophy-resistant bone tissue.

Two more implants will be placed at an angle in the back of your jaw.

They will connect the new bridge to the implants. Then, the fit and comfort will be adjusted.

With all-on-four implants, the dentist uses a set of four implants as anchors for a full or partial set of dentures. Unlike traditional implants, which require multiple treatments and a lengthy recuperation period, the all-on-four implant process may typically be completed in a single dental appointment. With all-on-four implants, the patient leaves the office with implants and a complete set of restorations.

In all-on-four, the dentist places the two outside implants in a slightly different manner than with traditional implants. Angled beneath the gum line, they provide the most potential support for the rear teeth in the prosthetic arch.

The dentist can execute the entire treatment in less than a day, although the recovery period could take many months. After complete healing, the dentist will install the final prosthetic bridge, completing the all-on-four implants procedure.

 

Positives and Negatives of Dental Implants

Obviously, like with any process, each one has advantages and disadvantages.

 

Advantages of Routine Dental Implants

Unlike bridges, dental implants do not rely on adjacent natural teeth for support, which helps safeguard your remaining teeth. Also, unlike with dentures, bone loss is often avoided because implants replace the root and tooth.

Implants operate and appear like natural teeth, but they do not cause the eating or speaking difficulty or “clicking” sounds that dentures frequently cause. Individuals in good health have a greater chance of implant success. Smokers have a reduced success rate, and chronic diseases such as diabetes might hinder the healing process.

You care for your dental implants the same way you care for your natural teeth, with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.

 

Regular Dental Implants Drawbacks

Implant placement is typically safe. However, like with any surgical procedure, you may encounter complications, such as:

Infection

Bleeding

damage to the sinuses, nerves or nasal cavities

Infections are still possible. Bacteria can infect your gums around the dental implant, causing periimplantitis, a kind of periodontal disease that can cause bone loss.

You may need more dental treatment. If osteoporosis damages your jawbone, for instance, the dentist may need to graft bone onto the affected area. If your sinus cavity becomes bigger and pushes onto the locations requiring a bone graft, they may also need to raise it.

Insurance doesn’t normally cover dental implants. However, they are inexpensive considering their longevity.

Despite these disadvantages, dental implants are a solid and safe solution with a high success rate that can considerably enhance your quality of life.

 

Advantages and Drawbacks of All-on-Four Dental Implants

When missing teeth are replaced with all-on-four implants, numerous individuals regain confidence and comfort. Patients appreciate and favor the technique since it can restore an entire mouthful of teeth with only four implants and one surgery. This treatment allows for the replacement of all teeth in a single day. And because this procedure is more cheap than other alternatives, an increasing number of patients are restoring their complete smiles.

Advantages of All-on-Four Implants

Several advantages of all-on-four implants include:

Just four implants can completely restore a grin.

Treatment involves simply a single operation.

You can have an entirely new set of teeth in a single day.

Less expensive than other treatments

Deep, tight jawbone insertion so implants won’t loosen or shift

Typically, no bone graft is needed.

 

The Negatives of All-on-Four Implants

The all-on-four implant operation has been successful for a number of patients, but this does not guarantee that it is your best option. There are a number of reasons why you would not wish to have this surgery performed, including:

Since the dentist replaces all of your teeth on the same day, you will not have the opportunity to evaluate their comfort, bite, or appearance.

Implants require a significant quantity of bone to remain in place.

Your dentist cannot install all-on-four implants in the areas of your mouth that experience the most bite force, namely the molar regions.

 

Are Dental Implants the Best Option for me

There is always the possibility that you will not qualify for dental implants. However, implants work well for the majority of patients, and even if you’re not an ideal candidate initially, some procedures can help you achieve success with this treatment choice. For instance, implants necessitate robust bone because they are attached to the jawbone. Additionally, you cannot have cavities or gum disease, as these conditions provide a danger of cross-infection during the treatment.

However, having gum disease, cavities, or a weak jawbone does not fully prohibit you from dental implants. Your dentist can prepare your mouth for dental implants by administering therapy, fillings, or bone grafts.

However, since implants are not appropriate for everyone, you should be aware of your other treatment options.

Among the additional options are:

1. Removable Denture

Your gums support a removable full denture. It rests on the region previously occupied by your natural teeth. A removable denture is a non-invasive and inexpensive alternative to dental implants, however it is often unstable and painful.

They are frequently thick and massive, especially the top dentures that cover the upper palate. They can alter the flavor of food and limit your meal options, as many foods cannot be effectively chewed with dentures.

Dentures also tend to shift somewhat when you speak, eat, and occasionally yawn or grin. While adhesives can enhance denture retention, they only provide a temporary solution, and the constant movement of dentures can cause ulcers on the gums. When dentures lay on the gums, they exert pressure that may accelerate bone loss. In addition, many denture users experience “clicking” sounds while they talk.

 

2. Fixed Tooth-Supported Bridge

Your natural teeth are used to support a bridge. It is a common alternative to implants, especially when only one tooth needs to be fixed.

With a fixed bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap are crowned. These teeth are also referred to as abutment teeth. The new tooth is positioned between the two crowns. Porcelain, gold, or another precious metal alloy may be used to create a fixed bridge. In some instances, these materials are combined to construct a fixed bridge.

Fixed bridges have a few disadvantages compared to dental implants. Implants are self-supporting, whereas a tooth-supported bridge requires the dentist to prepare the abutment teeth for dental crowns. Because these teeth may be healthy and disease-free, it is undesirable to destroy healthy dental structure.

Additionally, supporting a replacement tooth places a great deal of strain on these teeth. The reduction of good tooth structure increases the likelihood that these abutment teeth will become diseased or decaying in the future.

 

3. No Action

Consider the repercussions if you opt to delay tooth replacement procedure or do nothing at all. Most essential, you should be aware that tooth loss causes jawbone loss. It is preferable to undergo therapy as soon as possible. If you are considering dental implants, you should get them installed as soon as possible to prevent bone loss.

Many individuals who are unhappy with their smile or teeth should consider dental implants, but not all. Here are a few eligibility requirements for undergoing a dental implant operation.

You are missing one or more teeth.

Your jawbone is fully developed and mature.

There is sufficient bone to support the implants, or you qualify for a bone graft.

You cannot or refuse to wear dentures.

You wish to enhance your speaking.

You are willing to commit to the lengthy procedure, which may span months or years depending on the number of implants required.

 

How Much Do Implants Cost

Multiple variables, such as the following, can affect the price of dental implants:

How many implants will you be receiving?

What materials are implants made of?

Where one resides

The dentist’s responsibilities during the operation

What the level of expertise of the dentist is.

However, when performed by an experienced and educated dental implant dentist, dental implant surgery is a safe and predictable dental operation.

Dental implants have drastically altered the manner in which dentists undertake a surgery that formerly required a complete jawbone. Implants offer significant advantages to the traditional procedure and are gaining favor among patients. As competition for dental implant patients intensifies, it is crucial that you understand the advantages and disadvantages of each of your treatment options, as well as their suggested treatments and care methods.

 

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Dental Lab for You

Those unfamiliar with the subtleties of the process will find it challenging to create dentures or implants that fit properly and look beautiful. Dentistry is not something that can be taught over the course of a weekend. There are many factors involved in the creation of a set of teeth that extend beyond the dental laboratory. When creating the greatest possible dentures, one must consider materials, anatomy, psychology, and more.

It can be difficult to find a dental laboratory that provides consistent quality. These ten fundamentals can help you distinguish between an average and an exceptional laboratory.

Are you satisfied with the consistency and quality of your current dental lab? Or, are you a novice practitioner seeking a lab partner but unclear of what questions to ask?

It might be difficult to find a dental laboratory that can consistently deliver dental restorations that employ safe, durable materials, appear natural, fit properly, and do not compromise the patient’s other teeth.

The following ten fundamentals of excellence can help you distinguish between an average and an exceptional laboratory.

Ask potential lab partners if they have implemented these elements into their procedures when assessing the quality of your present laboratory.

 

10 Fundamentals of Excellence

  • Quality Management Checklist
  • Master Technician heads a small, dedicated account team.
  • Your Custom Digital Configuration Saved For Practice
  • Restorations Designed using a Microscope
  • Uncut Solid Model for Precision and Accuracy
  • Hand Polish and Pumice prior to and following glaze
  • Utilize the most innovative ceramic materials and processes
  • Two-step procedure for measuring die stone
  • Utilization of Alloy Exam Dies
  • CAD/CAM Digital Imaging for Consistency Assurance and Saving Chair Time

 

Quality Management Checklist

Include a quality assurance checklist with each case in your existing lab? The inclusion of this checklist with every case demonstrates a laboratory’s dedication to ensuring its procedures are efficient and uniform.

To locate labs and lab technicians eager to take responsibility for and stand by their work, seek for a lab that needs a master technician to sign off on each completed checklist.

A signature of responsibility conveys pride and confidence in each restoration’s consistency, quality, and outcome.

This is a clear indication that the laboratory and its quality assurance personnel ensure quality work.

A signature of responsibility also indicates a willingness to assume responsibility for any problems.

This enables swift resolutions and improved outcomes for all parties.

Denttree is dedicated to quality control. The following checklist has been established to assist you in comprehending the quality standards we adhere to when designing, manufacturing, and shipping your items.

 

Small, Devoted Account Group

Working in collaboration with your lab partner requires extensive communication. Consider a dental laboratory that provides a single, immediately accessible point of contact for technical concerns and case planning conversations.

A devoted team guarantees that team members fully comprehend their assigned cases and can work on each case with minimal interruptions.

Your small, devoted staff also facilitates simple, continuous communication between the laboratory team and the dentist office for each case.

Your team leader should be a master dental technician with the knowledge, experience, and authority to discuss cases with the dentist office as well as train the laboratory team.

When issues regarding a case or the need for case planning arise, there should be no ambiguity about who to contact.

There should be no passing from person to person in search of a source of information.

Denttree is a small dental laboratory that specializes in porcelain and sophisticated ceramic restorations. We have a specialized account team lead by a master technician who will oversee your case personally from consultation to delivery. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the greatest quality service, allowing you to concentrate on running your business.

 

Saved Settings Specific to Your Practice

Does your dental laboratory store your digital preferences? These are practice-specific parameters that will be utilized by the dental laboratory. Not every laboratory will retain these settings.

Some laboratories use standard parameters to each repair.

Once you are satisfied with your digital settings, you should save them for future use. Your patients will experience greater uniformity if your personalized settings are stored.

Inquire if your dental lab partner will store your digital settings and use them for future restorations.

Using bespoke settings permits a dental laboratory to adjust and fine-tune a client’s specific dental requirements for a more exact and pleasant fit.

These are the most fundamental digital custom settings saved by top dental laboratories:

 

  • Digital contact settings
  • Occlusal settings
  • Internal fit adjustments
  • Microscope-Generated Dental Restorations

Did you know that the majority of dental laboratories do not utilize microscopes to create your stents? Due to the high cost of microscopes, the majority of dental labs employ high poglas to reduce expenses.

Restorations created under a microscope of 10x magnification are significantly more accurate and exact.

Loops are unable of achieving the same level of detail as microscopes.

Look for a dental laboratory that has invested in 10 high-powered microscopes and incorporates them into their daily operations. Your dental laboratory’s investment in microscopes demonstrates their dedication to providing you and your patients with the finest details and a perfect fit.

Denttree is a dental lab that offers high-quality dental products.

Our staff of highly trained dental technicians has received intensive training to guarantee they possess all the necessary abilities to confidently conduct your treatment. We believe in offering an outstanding service at reasonable rates, which is why we only utilize premium materials supplied by some of the industry’s most respected brands.

 

Uncut Solid Model for Precision and Accuracy

Frequently, dental restorations are manufactured by sectioning a cast model of a patient’s dental impression.

The sectioning of a model facilitates the manipulation of restorations by a lab worker.

However, a restoration created on a sectioned model can compromise the accuracy of the final fit.

A less-than-precise fit increases the amount of time a patient spends in a dental appointment waiting for the dentist to modify the fit in the chair.

Consider working with a lab that creates restorations from uncut solid models. An uncut model is the closest possible representation of a patient’s mouth. This enables more accurate and exact final fittings and lowers the possibility of remakes and restorations with poor fit.

 

Polish and Pumice Prior to and Following Glazing

Most dental facilities construct their crowns from zirconium dioxide metal. On the current market, zirconia offers the optimal balance of durability and natural beauty.

After milling zirconia, each zirconium dioxide crown is glazed and baked in an oven.

Glazing the zirconia is the process of putting a smooth, shining coating to the surface of the zirconia to provide the appearance of a natural tooth on the crown.

Under a microscope, the glaze applied to a zirconia crown resembles sandpaper, with porcelain particles bound together by a binder.

After glazing, polishing the surface of the crown by hand produces a more natural-looking tooth.

However, the glazing on a zirconia crown progressively wears away, leaving unglazed zirconia in its place.

Without the glaze, the zirconia crown’s surface is coarse and uneven.

At this time, the zirconia crown’s surface will begin to erode the opposing healthy tooth, resulting in harm to the patient’s existing teeth.

By selecting a dental laboratory that hand polishes and pumices restorations prior to glazing, you can protect your clients’ teeth and produce long-lasting results.

Before glazing the crown, high-quality laboratories will polish the zirconia crown surface until it is smooth and lustrous.

If this procedure is conducted first and the glaze ultimately fades away, the remaining polished zirconia surface will not hurt the adjacent teeth.

This procedure of polishing and pumicing a crown prior to and following glazing is eternal. The surface will never become rough again unless the teeth are ground in the chair. Once the glaze has worn away, the surface of the zirconia crown will stay smooth and will not hurt adjacent teeth.

The majority of labs do not polish the crown’s zirconia surface before to or after glazing. This is a significant distinction between an average and great laboratory.

 

Market’s Finest Ceramics

For the most natural appearance, ensure that your lab offers various full zirconia crown alternatives, including the most aesthetically pleasing and durable full translucent zirconia.

A complete translucent zirconia has the appearance of pressed ceramic and the strength of solid zirconia. For optimal esthetics, it is more translucent at the incisal edge, where it should be, and less translucent as it approaches the gingiva.

Offering translucent, layered zirconia for your patients’ dental restorations can enhance esthetics and patient satisfaction.

In addition, your lab should provide the option of constructing your anterior restorations using a multi-powder segmented porcelain build-up approach to achieve a natural appearance.

The absence of this phase will result in cookie crowns devoid of individuality.

 

Two-Step Procedure for Measuring Die Stone

The ratio of stone to liquid must be precise when a dental laboratory pours a model from a dental impression. If the measurement is inaccurate, the resulting model will be inaccurate.

Ensure that your dental lab weighs its stone and water using computer scales. This avoids any fluctuation in the uniformity of the materials and ensures that every model has the same expansion rate.

You should also verify that your lab’s die stone measurements undergo a two-step quality control process.

Step 1

Each box of die stone that is shipped to the lab from the manufacturer is subject to a quality control examination.

Using their computer scales, they will mix a test batch of stone and measure its expansion for that box.

Then, they will compare the expansion rate of the combination to the expansion rate indicated on the box’s side.

This procedure ensures that the manufacturer’s die stone is of superior quality.

 

Step 2

The second quality control checkpoint ensures that each model employs an exact ratio of die stone to liquid.

This step should be performed automatically by technicians.

The second quality hurdle is automatically met by a dental laboratory that uses computer scales to determine the precise amount of stone needed for each imprint.

 

Utilization of Alloy Exam Dies

Utilize an alloy testing die to verify the precision of their investing and casting process.

Each month, the lab will utilize the examination die as a point of reference to verify the growth of their investment used to cast your crowns, as not all casting investments expand uniformly and require liquid changes to compensate.

The advantage of an alloy inspection die is that it does not change size or become worn. This approach guarantees the crown’s structural integrity and precise final fit.

 

CAD/CAM Digital Imaging

Most, if not all, dental laboratories use CAD/CAM digital imaging. When selecting a dental laboratory, search for one that employs five cameras as opposed to the standard three.

The higher resolution of five cameras allows for a better-fitting crown than the resolution of three cameras.

This implies improved occlusion and a more comfortable fit. Additionally, a better resolution will make it simpler to discern the minute characteristics of each tooth.

 

Traditional and Digital Impressions

In the past decade, the usage of intraoral scanners to create digital imprints has increased significantly. Digital impressions currently account for roughly 20% of all impressions. This is anticipated to increase as practitioners become more proficient using intraoral scanners.

Your dental laboratory should be able to handle both digital and conventional impressions.

The majority of the quality of digital impressions is determined by the correct use of intraoral scanners and the amount of time spent acquiring complete, high-quality images of the mouth.

Work closely with the maker of your intraoral scanners to ensure that you and your staff are appropriately trained in their use. If there are concerns with the image quality, your dental lab can inform you and work with you to resolve them.

When done correctly, digital impressions can save substantial time and effort for both the lab and the practitioner.

However, digital technology is currently incapable of capturing the intricate intricacies of implant or hybrid denture restorations. Traditional impressions continue to be the most precise and optimum option for these circumstances.

Whether you choose traditional or digital impressions, a dental laboratory that employs five-camera digital imaging will allow for the most effective restorations.

A superior lab partner is essential for patient happiness, reducing chair time, and enhancing your reputation.

When selecting a dental laboratory, take the time to inquire whether it adheres to these ten standards of excellence.

 

  • Quality Management Checklist
  • Master Technician heads a small, dedicated account team.
  • Your Repairs Made Under Microscope
  • Uncut Solid Model for Precision and Accuracy
  • Hand Polish and Pumice prior to and following glaze
  • Utilize the Most Innovative Ceramic Materials and Methods
  • Two-step procedure for measuring die stone
  • Utilization of Alloy Exam Dies
  • CAD/CAM Digital Imaging for Consistency Assurance and Saving Chair Time

 

If these fundamentals of excellence are present, your dental laboratory has proved it has the processes in place to offer you with consistently high-quality outcomes that will transform your patients’ lives.

In order to choose the best dental lab, it is necessary to comprehend all aspects of the industry. When armed with this knowledge and approaching your search with it in mind, selecting a dental lab can be relatively simple. Before getting into contracts or agreements with them, you should conduct research and ensure that you have clearly specified your specifications.

Denttree is the greatest option when seeking for a provider of prototypes and dental crowns and bridges.

I have received my lab report, are these results bad?

Question: I have received my lab report and my SGOT is 73, my SGPT is 84 and my gamma glutamyltranferase is 422. Are these results bad?

Answer:  Labs show a mild elevation of SGOT and SGPT, with a more marked elevation of GGT. This pattern is suggestive of a disease process that affects the bile ducts that drain the liver and the gall bladder into the intestine. There are many causes for this, some serious (such as malignancy), others more benign (such as stones or alcohol use). The next step would be an ultrasound to look for something outside of the liver that could be blocking the bile ducts, or whether it looks like there is disease in the liver itself that is causing bile problems. The work-up would then continue based on the results of that ultrasound.

Regards,

Dr. Deepak Patel

I have trouble falling asleep, is Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) a solution?

Question: I have trouble falling asleep and suffer from anxiety, is Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) a solution? I heard that ASMR is used by people to help with anxiety and sleep problems. I really don’t know if Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response is a fad or just fake. Should I try it?

Answer: Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) is an experience which is not well documented nor has been studied in depth by the medical field. ASMR is basically a sensory experience felt by some people – not all people – when watching a specially designed video which elicits a calming “tingling” sensation localized to the scalp and neck – this works for some people only. It is said that it does help with anxiety and sleep disorders because it creates a meditation like effect. Should you try it? I don’t think it can hurt, so why not. You can search on YouTube for these kind of videos….have fun!

Thanks for your question.

Dr. John Claude

I have developed blisters on my glans (head of penis).

Question: I have developed blisters on my glans (head of penis) and a particular nasty blister on the tip. This happened after masturbation. They have now popped and the skin underneath is quite tender and painful. Now they seem to have cured, they are no longer painful – there has been no discharge or fever. What can this be? I have not had sexual relations with a partner for over 1 year!

Answer: Based on the information you have provided it seems your masturbation caused ulcers. But it is probably indicative of genital herpes. Please consult with a specialized doctor. Your doctor will probably prescribe: Acyclovir 400 mg one tablet three times a day for 10 days. Mupirocin ointment over the ulcer area twice daily. Diclofenac twice daily for five days. Pantoprazole 40 mg once daily

Regards,

Dr. Deepak Patel

I had a vasectomy but my girlfriend says she is pregnant?

Question:  from a 52 yo male, good health. In the course of dating a 36 yo woman, a situation has arisen which I cannot find any clarification on beyond the normal conclusion.

In October 2020 the relationship had escalated to a sexual nature and in the same month, she contracted the COVID 19 Delta variant. About 1 month later she advised that she had 2 positive pregnancy tests conducted at home (with faint lines on each test). She went to her OB/GYN and they confirmed the formation of a gestational sac via ultrasound.

The problem is I had a vasectomy in 2011 and verified the procedure with 2 follow-up exams 60 and 90 days apart which concluded at that time that no sperm was present in the semen. I know there are cases where vasectomies have failed but my research indicated they are less than 1% as time progresses. Last week, February 10, 2021, I had another semen analysis conducted, under the guidance of a Urology office. The lab indicated that there was NO sperm present in the semen sample delivered that day.

So I am either being lied to when she vehemently denies having sex with someone else or is there a remote possibility that her ordeal with COVID 19(d) somehow messed with her body into thinking it was pregnant? She had other oddities with COVID, Thyroid problems which have now cleared up, Pneumonia which has cleared up, 2 DVTs that have gone away with the only lingering issue of permanent scarring on her lungs from the Pneumonia. I have read that the medical community still has some difficulty determining exactly what COVID can and can’t do to a body so is there any case where it can cause a woman’s body to think it’s pregnant and react accordingly when in fact it is not? Thank you.

Answer: Hello. Of course there is a remote chance that the vasectomy failed but – in my opinion – the chances are 1 in 100,000.

Dr. Isabelle Dandurand

Do I suffer from liver damage?

I am 49 year old male, height 5′ 5″ inches tall, and weighing 165 lbs. I have no particular symptoms nor am I feeling bad in any way. I rarely drink and try to eat well. I take no medications. I do undergo regular blood tests just to stay up to date and make sure everything is OK. I have received (and uploaded) my recent lab results and am concerned with certain values, in particular SGOT (AST) and SGPT (ALT). Does it indicate there is damage to the liver? What should I do?

Cold room temperatures give me headaches and migraines?

I am searching for the medical term or explanation to a condition that I got ever since the following happened:

I was renting for a couple of years a flat (in a relatively new development/house) from a landlord, who refused to fix anything in it, including the heating, which was not working at all (from the very beginning) all winter long.
(I live in Europe by the way)

I was forced to sleep in a room with cold air. And then would get up with horrible headaches and migraines, because of that.

The thing it, it is now already a couple of years after I no longer live in that place, but the health damage still remains!

I am now sensitive to any somewhat cold room temperature (I believe already anything below 25 degrees Celsius), and still get up with forehead pain if having slept in anything but a warm room.
It is always the forehead that aches afterwards.

Please could you advise me what this is, if there is any medical term for this (it’s not hypothermia is it?), and if there is anything I could do in order to reverse the permanent damage which was caused.
(I never before, prior to living in the said flat under the described conditions, suffered from this phenomenon)
(…)
It is very impairing and debilitating to me and I cannot have a normal life (without needing to worry about if a room is warm enough, and without suffering forehead pain) anymore due to this.

Thank you very much in advance for your help and advice.

Should I take Pertussis vaccine in order to protect baby from whooping cough?

Question: What is the general rule for a Pertussis vaccine? I have no symptoms. I am asking because my daughter is having a baby and she asked me to get the Pertussis vaccine in order to protect the baby from whooping cough. Is this necessary?

Answer: Today, vaccines have become a “hot” debate in today’s politicized world, but in regards to your question re: Pertussis (whooping cough), vaccination is in fact the best protection and helps to reduce the risk to yourself, vulnerable infants, and pregnant women. Recommendation: Tdap; one dose for an adult (for adults who haven’t received it before). This is a standing recommendation issued by many governments, including CDC and Canada Health.

Regards,

Dr. D. Zluf
Dr. D. Zluf

I have a small white scar on the lower lip, is it cancer?

Question: I have a small white scar on the lower lip for seven months. It was not white at first. But now it just stays there and does not show any change.I have uploaded the photo.

Best Answer: In my opinion this is nasolabial dyssebacia (photo removed to protect user identity). It is a type of eczema secondary to mild pityrosporum yeast infection associated with an oily part of the face with affected areas, symptoms are mild scaling and redness in some people. A common treatment involves using Cetaphil soap to wash face along with Lulifin cream (Luliconazole) once daily for 30 days. The application to affected areas is maintained even after the skin becomes normal for 30 days. This condition is often caused by stress and anxiety. Nothing serious, it is treatable.

Dr. Sunita Singh

I had an allergic reaction to lip balm, what can I put on it safely?

Question: I had an allergic reaction to lip balm and by the time I got home and washed it off,
all the skin on my lips slushed off. Most regrew normal, but the center was puffy and yellowish. I thought it was from my Shea butter lip mask, but when it got torn just now it reeked. So, infected. But what can I put on it safely?

I am a male with weak ejaculation. Are there any remedies?

Question: 39, male with weak ejaculation. Much remains in the urethra and has to be urinated out. Sometimes there is irritation and urge to urinate but no urine to flush. Currently taking antidepressants and beta blockers which I must continue. Are there any remedies? Thank you.

Best Answer: I would recommend you do pelvic floor exercises. Pelvic floor exercises are a specific workout that intentionally engages, strengthens, and tones your pelvic floor muscles that are involved in bladder, bowel, and sexual function. To quickly identify the pelvic floor muscles try to stop the flow of urine while emptying your bladder. Do this once for a second or two, this is the correct muscle. This is the muscle you need to exercise.

Start the exercise by sitting or laying down. Squeeze your pelvic floor muscles for up to 10 seconds, then release. Do a set of 10 squeezes. Repeat the exercises two or three times a day. As your muscle strength improves, you can hold each squeeze for longer or add more repetitions.

Dr. Xavier Trepanier

Should I go gluten free?

Question: I am having difficulty with digesting food. I suffer from regular diarrhea as well as constipation at times. I am a 35 year old woman and consider myself in pretty good shape. I eat well and exercise. Take no meds and have no health problems. But why these stomach problems? I can’t figure out the problem. So I am starting to believe I have gluten or maybe wheat intolerance.  Should I Go Gluten-Free?

Best Answer: Gluten free is important only if you suffer from celiac disease or have a special sensitivity to gluten. Which is NOT the case for most people. The gluten free argument is just a trend promoted by people on social media that serves their own interests. I’d think twice before cutting it out from my diet.

Jack Mckinney

My mother is coughing, can it be cancer?

Question: My 72 year old mother has a cough for 4 weeks now. She has a bad and consistent cough which began just a few days after having had high fever. The cough is dry with a little transparent mucus every so often. Her tests were all normal ( CBC, blood test, chest X-ray). She is right now on mild antibiotics and nebulizer. I am worried because she is still coughing. She is having problems sleeping and eating. She is taking medications for acidity and high BP.  Can it be cancer?

Best Answer: Hi and thanks for your question. Based on the info you have provided, I do not think it could be cancer. A blood count, X-ray, and an ECG review with your personal physician would be useful. Also it would be good for me to know if she is a smoker and there is a history of asthma?

Regards,

Dr. Javez Ernesto
Dr. Javez Ernesto

Should a patient with no visible lesions be treated with FLUORUORACIL(EFUDEX)

Question: 85 y old white male developed a small papula on his cheek.The dermatologist

performed biopsy by excision.The dermatopathologist reported that

a Ber-EP4 immuno stain was positive in a small cluster of cells.She stated that a differential diagnosis include a hair germ and recommended another biopsy.

Because of a grave illness in the family patient had to leave New York City to

spend several weeks with his dying brother in Chicago.The lesion on his cheek

healed completely .Upon return to New York he consulted his dermatologist

who suggested 4 weeks treatment with flurouracil cream applied twice a day.

Patient is extremely reluctant to follow this recommendation because of his fear of very unpleasant side effects which he read about and heard from several patients who had this treatment ,for “a condition which I may not have”.

He would like to wait and see if the lesion recurs,have a second biopsy if it does , and if the BCC is confirmed choose one of the surgical treatments or a non surgical alternative.

I would appreciate your opinion concerning the best management of this case