With the remarkable All-on-4®1 method of care, our office can help patients who either already lost or are scheduled to have all of their upper and/or lower teeth extracted quickly rebuild their smiles to speak, smile, and eat with renewed confidence and ease!
First Performed by Dr. Paulo Malo in 1998, the All-on-4 treatment concept has helped hundreds of thousands of patients reestablish attractive smiles that look, feel, and function like their very own!
The All-on-4 treatment concept offers:
Best of all, you never have to go without teeth! With the All-on-4 method of care, a fully functional set of temporary teeth is placed the same day as your procedure. This remarkable feature offers the added benefit of having an attractive and complete smile to share with the world until healing is complete and your permanent ones get placed.
With a patient satisfaction rate that exceeds 95%, the All-on-4 treatment concept restores your smile and allows you to once again enjoy the foods you love!
For skilled and experienced care you can trust, contact the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS. We offer the most advanced solutions to transform incomplete smiles into ones that look great, function well, and inspire confidence!
1All-on-4 is a registered trademark of Nobel Biocare
The All-on-4 treatment concept offers an implant-based solution to patients who have lost all of their upper and/or lower teeth. This remarkable method of care helps patients quickly rebuild complete and beautiful smiles. With All-on-4, your new, and complete set of implant-supported replacement teeth feel secure, stable, and much like your very own.
If you currently wear complete upper and/or lower dentures or are slated to have your remaining teeth extracted, you may be a candidate for All-on-4. First Performed by Dr. Paulo Malo in 1998, the All-on-4 treatment concept has helped hundreds of thousands of patients quickly reestablish attractive smiles that look, feel, and function just like a set of natural teeth!
The All-on-4 treatment concept offers a fixed and permanent alternative to removable dentures. Unlike dentures, All-on-4 does not rely on messy dental adhesives or natural suction to hold your new set of teeth in place. With All-on-4, your replacement teeth are permanently secured by dental implants, giving you a smile that looks not only great but also feels secure and stable. You'll feel comfortable and confident as you speak, smile, and chew with ease.
While traditional full arch implants also achieve outstanding results of care, the All-on-4 treatment concept does not involve bone grafting and requires fewer implants to support a full set of teeth. With just four strategically placed dental implants needed to support an entire set of upper or lower teeth, the All-on-4 treatment concept offers a cost-effective and satisfying solution for rebuilding a complete smile. Thanks to this remarkable method of care, patients can experience the satisfaction of having teeth placed the same day as surgery. This key feature allows patients to smile and function with confidence until healing is complete and the permanent restorations installed.
Once it's been determined that you're a candidate for treatment with All-on-4, the process of treatment planning and designing your new smile begins. 3D diagnostic records provide the detailed information required to determine the exact positions of the four supporting dental implants. Then, on the day of surgery, we'll remove any remaining teeth, place the 4 implants, and insert a set of attractive, sturdy, and functional set of temporary teeth. With All-on-4, temporary teeth can be placed right away with a customized, permanent set to follow once the implants become fully integrated with the surrounding bone.
With All-on-4, temporary teeth can be placed right away with a customized, permanent set to follow within just a few months after the implants become fully integrated with the surrounding bone.
Thanks to All-on-4, patients enjoy permanent teeth that look, feel, and function just like real teeth. And with a patient satisfaction rate that exceeds 95%, the All-on-4 treatment concept restores your smile, your confidence, and allows you to enjoy once again the foods you love!
Maintaining your All-on-4 smile requires the same care as a natural smile. By cleaning your teeth twice daily, after meals as possible, and scheduling appointments for routine checkups as well as care, you can keep your new smile strong and healthy for years to come. Our office will demonstrate the most effective methods of oral hygiene and answer all your questions as to how to care for your new smile.
The terms dental crowns and caps are synonymous. If dental decay, cracked fillings, root canals, clenching or grinding the teeth have caused extensive damage to the underlying tooth structure a dental filling may not be a sufficient restoration. The only way to completely restore the cosmetic appearance and function of this tooth is often full coverage with a dental crown. The good news is that a completed dental crown looks and feels like a natural tooth.
In addition to restoring a single natural tooth, crowns can be used in other situations including being the supporting ends of dental bridge, covering dental implants, or as coverage for a cracked tooth to prevent further breakdown. A crown may also be indicated when a discolored or stained tooth needs to be restored to its natural appearance. Crowns can be made of either porcelain baked onto a metal substrate, all-porcelain, or many of the new ceramic materials that have been developed.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we provide skilled and experienced care to help every patient enjoy the benefits of optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. For individuals who are missing teeth due to extensive decay, periodontal disease, trauma, the result of an illness, or side effect of medical treatment, we offer a comprehensive range of services to rebuild complete, attractive, and functional smiles.
Missing teeth do more than cause embarrassing gaps in your smile. In the absence of a replacement, they can affect the health and function of your smile in the following ways:
Although the consequences of missing teeth can compromise your dental health and overall well-being, modern dentistry offers effective solutions for reestablishing a complete, attractive, and well-functioning smile.
Today, thanks to advances in dental materials, technology, and treatment methods, it's easier than ever before to replace missing teeth and achieve aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting results.
Of course, each smile is different, and every patient has unique needs and individual expectations of care. Helping a patient rebuild a complete and beautiful smile may involve partial or full dentures, fixed dental bridges, or dental implants.
As skilled and experienced providers of care, the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS offers expert guidance on choosing the most suitable treatment option. Whatever type of tooth replacement method you select, you can feel confident that your smile will look good and feel great!
A dental bridge offers a highly effective, stable, and fixed solution for replacing missing teeth. Unlike removable partial dentures that clasp on to the remaining teeth, a dental bridge relies on the support of crowns attached to teeth adjacent to the edentulous area (space without teeth) or strategically placed dental implants. In addition to restoring the look, feel, and function of a natural smile, they also prevent the teeth from shifting, thereby protecting the alignment of a patient's bite.
Far from a new idea, the history of replacing teeth with a fixed dental bridge goes back thousands of years. Ancient civilizations made impressive use of available materials, including animal and human teeth, bones, gold, and ivory, to fill gaps in a person's smile.
Fortunately, over the millennia, dental materials and technology have evolved. Today, dental bridges are fabricated from the highest quality of dental materials, including porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, and engineered ceramic products like zirconia. Now, in addition to being stronger and more durable than ever before, they appear more attractive and naturally beautiful.
Depending on the number of missing teeth, the health of the remaining dentition, and other factors, a dental bridge can replace a single missing tooth or multiple ones.
Although most resources list a traditional fixed bridge, an implant-supported bridge, a cantilever bridge, and a Maryland bridge as the four main types of bridges, the most commonly recommended ones are the first two.
Traditional fixed bridge
A traditional fixed bridge typically requires the preparation and crowning of teeth on either side of the edentulous space. These crowned teeth function to support the artificial ones, known as “pontics,” that span the gap. In much the same way a bridge that extends over a body of water relies on the support of strong, sturdy pillars at each end, a dental bridge garners strength and stability from the terminal crowned teeth fused to a single or multiple pontics.
Although related and similar to a traditional fixed bridge, a cantilever fixed bridge differs in one significant way. Only one side of the pontic will get attached to a crown for support.
Implant-Supported Bridges
As the most advanced method for the replacement of missing teeth, dental implants come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of a natural smile. For this reason, an implant-supported bridge often represents the best option in care.
With an implant-supported bridge, there's no need to prepare, crown, or involve any adjacent natural teeth. Because dental implants behave in much the same way as the roots of natural teeth, they provide all the support a bridge requires.
In addition to providing a self-supporting solution for the replacement of missing teeth, Implant-supported bridges offer the most versatile approach for rebuilding a complete smile. Strategically placed dental implants can support any number of replacement teeth up to an entire set of upper or teeth.
Furthermore, as dental implants provide the same stimulation as actual roots to the surrounding jawbone, implant-supported bridges also help prevent the bone shrinkage that naturally occurs when teeth have been lost. This feature helps maintain normal facial contours.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, our mission is to help every patient enjoy good oral health and the benefits of a beautiful smile. We provide skilled, experienced care and offer the most advanced dental implant-based solutions to transform incomplete smiles into ones that look great, function well, and inspire confidence.
Successful treatment outcomes rely upon many things, including a careful assessment of a patient's oral health, overall well-being, smile goals, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you're a candidate for a traditional fixed bridge, an implant-supported bridge, or a removable denture will be determined following a comprehensive assessment and discussion with our office. We value patient input and strive to fulfill your expectations of care.
Before the fabrication and placement of a dental bridge, it's essential that your mouth is free from gum disease. If you have gum disease, it will need to get treated in advance of fabricating your bridge.
For traditional fixed bridges, the crowned teeth need to be strong and have sufficient bone surrounding them to offer strong support. Sometimes, a bone-grafting procedure to boost bone volume and provide a solid foundation is required before the fabrication of an implant-supported or traditional bridge.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, the care and comfort of our patients are our top priorities. Our goals are to create healthy and beautiful smiles and make every dental experience a positive one.
Fixed bridges are typically fabricated over the course of multiple visits. The process involves the preparation of the supporting teeth, impression taking, the placement of a temporary bridge, and the try-in and cementation of the permanent restoration.
It begins with a complete diagnostic workup to develop an appropriate treatment plan. For patients getting a traditional fixed bridge, the next step in the procedure involves preparing the abutment (supporting) teeth for full-coverage crowns. Depending on the number of teeth involved and other factors, an impression for the permanent bridge can get taken this visit or the next one. Either way, a temporary bridge or temporary crowns to cover the prepared teeth will get placed to protect the prepared teeth.
Following the preparation of the involved teeth, it's not unusual to experience some sensitivity and gum soreness. This discomfort typically subsides. However, since the fit of a temporary restoration is often less precise than the final permanent crown or bridge, you may still feel some residual sensitivity until treatment is completed.
Until the permanent crown or bridge is placed, it's essential to be extra careful. Temporary restorations are far less durable than permanent ones. If your temporary gets damages or comes off, please hold on to it. Contact our office, and we will set up an appointment to replace it. Do not attempt to do this on your own.
Before cementing your new bridge, the shade, contours, fit, and occlusion are checked. Once that is done, your new, permanent restoration is placed. Since you have been wearing a temporary, your bite may feel slightly different, and you may feel some pressure as the new restoration reestablishes appropriate contact with the adjacent teeth. If the bite still feels slightly off after a couple of days or any discomfort persists, get in touch with our office. You may still require a minor adjustment.
Surgery to place the dental implants is typically considered a minor surgical procedure and performed on an outpatient basis. However, the exact extent of the procedure depends upon the type and number of dental implants and whether or not any additional procedures are required to prepare the supporting bone.
As your trusted partner in care, you can count on our office to keep you well informed every step of the way. To facilitate the precise placement of dental implants for your implant-supported bridge, we'll take several detailed diagnostic records, including 3D images of your jaws and the involved area.
Patient care and comfort are our top priorities. We do everything we can to put you at ease and make every visit to our office both comfortable and stress-free. Prior to placing your dental implants, we'll discuss the anesthesia, options in dental sedation, and provide detailed pre-op and post-op care instructions.
Once the dental implants for your bridge are placed, it can take a few months for them to fully integrate with the surrounding bone. In some cases, a same-day temporary bridge can get placed to provide an immediate and cosmetically pleasing look. However, the permanent bridge typically gets placed when healing and osseointegration (fusion) with the surrounding bone are complete.
Your new bridge is customized to the exact specifications of your smile. Before cementing to the underlying teeth or affixing it to the supporting implants, the shade, occlusion, and all aspects of its fit get carefully checked. In addition to being designed to blend seamlessly with your smile, it's also made to suit your bite and withstand all manner of oral function. We take great care to make sure your new restoration looks great, fits well, and that your bite feels comfortable.
Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge is a worthwhile investment in the look, health, and function of your smile. While many dental insurances offer coverage for a dental bridge, and some toward the cost of implants, the benefits and amounts can vary significantly from plan to plan. At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we understand the financial considerations involved in care and do all we can to help patients begin treatment without any additional stress or delay. In addition to doing our best to optimize your dental benefits, we also offer several payment and financing options. Feel free to contact our office if you have any questions on the cost of care, dental insurances, financing plans, or acceptable forms of payment.
Now that your new permanent crown or bridge is in place, it's essential to maintain good oral hygiene. With proper care, your new restorations will last for years to come. Make sure to brush and floss as instructed. We'll show you how to floss under your dental bridge to keep your new smile clean and bright. Remember to make appointments for your routine checkups and professional cleanings.
The standard answer is that with routine dental visits and good home care, a bridge can last ten to fifteen years, and in many cases, much longer.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we fabricate your bridge from the highest quality dental materials to achieve the most cosmetically pleasing and lifelike results of care. It's also customized to the exact specifications of your smile and designed for optimal aesthetics, strength, and stability. Once fabricated and cemented into place, you'll feel confident sharing your smile, speaking, and eating your favorite foods.
As your trusted partner in care, we analyze every aspect of your smile to develop a treatment plan that provides aesthetically pleasing, healthy, and long-lasting results of care.
For more information on dental bridges, or any services we provide, give us a call today.
When dental decay compromises a tooth's structural integrity, a filling gets placed to rebuild its natural form and restore its strength and function.
Because tooth decay, also known as dental caries, remains one of the most prevalent chronic diseases affecting both children and adults worldwide, procedures to place fillings are routinely performed each and every day.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we provide precise and gentle treatment and maintain a position at the forefront of advances in care to provide patients with the highest quality of aesthetically pleasing and durable dental fillings.
According to archaeological findings, for as long as dental problems have existed, there have been efforts to provide emergency and restorative care. In fact, attempts to place dental fillings have been found in the skeletal remains of people who lived around the year 8000 BC. However, it wasn't until thousands and thousands of years later, in the 19th century, that a variety of metal fillings, including dental amalgam, appeared on the scene. Although gold achieved status as a popular restorative material, it was soon apparent that amalgam fillings, consisting of a mixture of mercury and an alloy composed of silver, tin, and copper, offered a less expensive, durable, and simpler alternative.
Until recent decades, the vast majority of dental fillings remained silver-colored, amalgam restorations. However, as dentistry has evolved in the last 50 years, new filling materials have been developed. While amalgam fillings are long-lasting and durable, today's newer materials offer the benefits of being mercury-free, metal-free, and much more aesthetic. These "tooth-colored or white fillings" invisibly restore the form and function of the involved tooth, while seamlessly blending in with the remaining tooth structure and the entire smile.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we tailor treatment to address specific dental needs and expectations of care. As with all the services our practice provides, we'll explain all your options in care, including the type of dental filling materials we offer to restore your tooth. Our goals are to gently remove the dental decay and the damaged tooth structure and then rebuild your tooth's form and function while providing you healthy, durable, long-lasting, and cosmetically pleasing results.
While traditional dental materials like gold and amalgam have been in use for over a century, recent advances in dental technology have made a more expansive and improved selection of restorative choices widely available. Beyond offering strength and durability, these new filling materials provide aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking results.
Composite fillings, which are frequently referred to as either "tooth-colored fillings" or "white fillings," consist of a combination of biocompatible resins and finely ground, glass-like filler materials that become strong and durable when set. Available in a complete range of natural-looking shades, composite fillings offer a cosmetically pleasing alternative to traditional "silver" fillings. Composite resins are also used in dental bonding procedures to improve a tooth's color or shape, mask defects, or close minor gaps between teeth.
Composite fillings adhere to natural tooth structure through a bonding process, which also serves to seal and strengthen the tooth. Beyond providing a close match to your natural tooth color, a composite filling does not require removing of as much tooth structure for placement, nor are they subject to expansion or contraction with temperature changes as is the case with dental amalgams. However, composite restorations can be more vulnerable to wear and staining and may require replacement down the road.
For many years, amalgam fillings represented the standard of care for restoring decayed teeth. While they don't offer the cosmetic appeal of other types of filling materials, amalgam restorations are strong, durable, and less likely than some other types of fillings to break or wear down.
Another type of white filling material, glass ionomer cements bond to the tooth's surface to provide a tight seal between the tooth and surrounding oral environment. Besides offering a natural-looking restoration, glass ionomer cements slowly release fluoride to strengthen and help protect the involved tooth from future decay. Since they are not as durable or wear-resistant as other filling materials, glass ionomers are most frequently used to treat baby teeth, cavities near the gumline, and in temporary fillings.
Ceramic fillings, inlays, and onlays are fabricated from the highest quality of dental porcelain and ceramics. As the most stain and wear-resistant option in tooth-colored fillings, these restorations offer durable, attractive, and long-lasting results. While "direct" fillings such as dental amalgam and composite fillings get placed immediately after the tooth is prepared, "indirect" fillings such as inlays or onlays get fabricated outside of the mouth before insertion and cementation or bonding.
Far less common these days and more expensive than any of the other materials, gold fillings remain excellent restorations. With excellent physical and chemical properties, gold fillings are strong, long-lasting, kind to the surrounding tissues, and remain stable over time.
Once our office has a chance to assess your smile, we'll advise you of our findings and outline a comprehensive treatment plan to help ensure your smile is healthy and functions at its best. If any tooth decay is detected, we'll schedule appointments to treat those cavities and place the fillings or restorations that are needed.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, patient care and comfort are our top priorities. While treating cavities and placing fillings are among the most routine procedures in dentistry, our office understands you have questions and concerns and will keep you well informed every step of the way.
Treating a cavity involves the precise and gentle removal of decayed and damaged tooth structure and any preparation of the remaining tooth structure needed to secure your new filling. Although every patient and every smile is different, you can expect your visit to take about an hour.
In most cases, this visit is performed under local anesthesia. As the work gets performed, your tooth is completely numb, and you should not feel any discomfort. A dental drill, dental laser, or air abrasion technology can be used to remove decay. Once the cavity gets excavated, and healthy tooth structure remains, it's time to place the filling. The type of dental filling material being used determines the manner of placement. Composite fillings, glass ionomer cements, and amalgam fillings are typically placed right away. However, in the case of an extensive cavity, a tiny palliative dressing and a temporary filling may be placed. Whatever type of filling is used, our office will check the fit, do any necessary polishing, and meticulously adjust the bite to ensure your optimal comfort and function.
For patients who are anxious about dental work, you can rest assured the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS is mindful of your needs. As skilled and experienced providers of care, we pride ourselves on providing gentle dentistry and do all we can to make your visit comfortable and stress-free. While we perform dental procedures under local anesthesia, we're also happy to discuss options in dental sedation.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, our goal is to help our patients enjoy optimal oral health and to keep them well informed every step of the way.
Immediately after the placement of a new filling, it's essential to keep the following in mind:
Until the anesthesia wears off
Immediately following your dental visit, you may experience a period of lingering numbness. Normal sensation typically returns within an hour or two. However, until the anesthetic has completely worn off, it's essential to protect yourself from unintentionally biting or injuring your lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue. Be mindful of chewing, drinking hot beverages, or smoking.
Now that your tooth has been restored and rebuilt, it may feel slightly different
While we take the utmost care to polish your new filling and make sure the bite is correct, on rare occasions, a patient may feel additional minor smoothing or further bite adjustment is required.
You may experience short-term sensitivity
It's perfectly normal for a tooth to feel a little sensitive following the placement of a filling. You may experience a twinge when eating cold or hot foods and beverages. This sensitivity should subside by itself within a few days. If your sensitivity worsens, you experience ongoing pain or develop any other symptoms; please contact our office.
Caring for your new restoration
Our office uses the latest generations of strong and durable filling materials. With proper oral hygiene and routine care, your new filling should last for many years to come. However, in cases of extensive tooth decay or injury to the underlying tooth, even the best restoration may need to be replaced, or further dental work may be needed down the road.
We're passionate about what we do and dedicated to providing the highest quality of care. If you have any additional questions or concerns, feel free to contact our office.
If the pleasure of eating a delicious bowl of ice cream or sipping a soothing cup of tea gets overshadowed by dental pain that makes you wince; it's time to contact our office. As skilled providers of care, we'll determine what's causing your discomfort and perform the treatment required to alleviate your symptoms and get you back on the road to oral health.
Cavities develop because of an infectious process that causes progressive damage to tooth structure. Despite starting as a pinpoint defect on the outermost enamel layer of your tooth, untreated dental decay progressively compromises more and more healthy tooth structure as it works its way to the inner layers of your tooth.
Yes, you can still develop tooth decay on other surfaces of the tooth, around the margins of an old filling, or in fewer instances, recurrent decay underneath it. For this reason, it's essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene, a diet low in sugary beverages and sweets, and be sure to visit our office for routine checkups and care. While tooth decay is second only to the common cold in frequency, it's almost entirely preventable.
We value the time and comfort of our patients. If cavities are located on adjacent teeth, or in the same section of your smile, it may be possible to treat more than one tooth during your visit. However, how much is done each visit depends on several factors. We keep our patients well informed and tailor every treatment plan and visit to address their unique needs.
Addressing concerns on the presence of elemental mercury in silver fillings, the American Dental Association (ADA), The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the FDA, and the World Health Organization have all stated that amalgam restorations do not pose a risk to health. However, individuals with allergies or sensitivities to the metals in dental amalgam are advised to pursue other restorative options.
Dental fillings are performed under local anesthesia to help ensure your comfort throughout the entire procedure. The involved tooth remains completely numb for the extent of your visit. Within one or two hours after the procedure is completed, the local anesthetic will gradually wear off, and normal sensations return.
A tooth-colored composite filling is fully hardened and set by the end of your visit. However, we may advise you to wait a couple of hours until the local anesthesia has completely worn off. This advice is to help ensure you don't accidentally bite your lip, cheek, or tongue while still numb.
The lifetime of a dental filling varies depending on the type of material used. While popular dental materials can last a decade or more with proper care, they can degrade over time, wear down, or even break. When this happens, you may experience some tooth sensitivity, a jagged edge, or a loose or dislodged piece of filling material. Whatever the case may be, it's essential to get the filling replaced before the tooth sustains further damage or other consequences arise. Beyond taking good care of your smile we can help ensure the longevity of your fillings, our office regularly checks the status of your existing fillings as part of a routine checkup exam.
Dental fillings are an essential investment that serves to preserve and protect the health of your smile. With that said, how much a filling costs depends on the number of surfaces of the tooth involved and the filling material that is used. Amalgam restorations are the most economical. While tooth-colored composite fillings have a slightly higher cost, they offer the added benefits of being metal-free and much more aesthetically pleasing. Ceramic fillings, inlays, and onlays are more expensive than the preceding options but provide outstanding, long-lasting, and natural-looking results.
Dental insurances typically cover the cost of dental fillings. While we work with you to maximize your insurance benefits, there may still be an out-of-pocket expense. At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we strive to help you begin care without any additional financial stress or delay.
Thanks to advances in dental materials, technology, and methods of care, it’s easier than ever before to replace missing teeth with the most natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing treatment outcomes. While dental implants and fixed bridgework provide effective and satisfying solutions for missing teeth, removable dentures remain a tried and true method for reestablishing a complete smile.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we fabricate dentures from the highest grade of dental materials for a precise and comfortable fit. Our dentures are meticulously designed to rebuild beautiful smiles and support natural facial contours while enabling patients to speak, smile, and chew with renewed confidence and ease.
We’re dedicated to helping patients to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile and take pride in offering personalized solutions to address their dental needs, lifestyle, and budget.
According to recent statistics, it’s estimated that across the country, over 175 million adults have lost at least one tooth, and close to 40 million are missing all of their teeth. In most of these cases, tooth loss is the end result of extensive dental decay, advanced gum disease, a traumatic injury, a congenital anomaly, or associated with a medical condition.
In addition to the psychological and social consequences having embarrassing gaps in your smile often produce, missing teeth can affect your ability to speak clearly and eat a satisfying and nutritious diet. Left unaddressed, missing teeth can also cause gradual changes to your appearance and the alignment of your remaining teeth. These changes not only affect your bite, but they have the potential to create more unsightly and unhealthy gaps in your smile. Furthermore, without the support of a complete set of teeth, facial contours may also begin to look more sagged and haggard over time.
While it’s never too late to rebuild a complete and beautiful smile, it’s always best to replace missing teeth sooner than later. Both partial and full dentures from the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS offer an effective and satisfying solution for reestablishing a complete smile.
Dentures are removable appliances that are designed to precisely and comfortably rest on top of the gums that cover the jawbones. They consist of natural-looking artificial teeth set in a supportive base. In addition to offering a cost-effective solution for the replacement of missing teeth, dentures are quite versatile. They can be used to replace either a few teeth that have been lost or all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaws.
While conventional bridgework and dental implants offer fixed solutions for rebuilding complete smiles, partial and full dentures are removable oral appliances. This statement means it’s possible to take dentures out of the mouth to clean and maintain the health of the underlying tissues and any remaining teeth, as well as clean the dentures themselves, or remove them while sleeping.
You can rest assured that rebuilding your smile is in the best of hands at the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS. As skilled and experienced providers of care, we’ll carefully evaluate all aspects of your smile, the health and integrity of any remaining teeth, along with the surrounding tissues and the supporting bone to develop a treatment plan that satisfies the functional and aesthetic requirements of your case.
The two main types of removable dentures are full dentures and partial dentures. Which of these types offers the best solution for your smile depends on how many natural teeth are still present in your mouth and the health of these remaining teeth. While a partial denture can offer an effective solution in cases where some sturdy natural teeth remain, you may be a candidate for a complete denture when all the upper or lower teeth are missing or require extraction.
Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, can effectively replace all the upper teeth, lower teeth, or both the upper and lower teeth. As with other types of dental solutions, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach for every case. The ultimate design, fabrication, and insertion of a full denture can vary based upon a patient’s specific needs.
This type of denture is fabricated and placed after all of the remaining teeth are removed, and the surrounding tissues have adequately healed. Fabricating a full denture when healing is complete supports a precise and comfortable fit.
Immediate Denture
With an immediate denture, a patient does not have to go without teeth while waiting for complete healing of the extraction sites. Although an immediate denture offers the advantage of not having to go without teeth for any length of time, it can require a reline and adjustments as the tissues remodel and heal. In some cases, for optimal comfort and fit, a conventional denture may eventually be required.
Overdenture
An overdenture is a type of complete denture that receives added stability and support from special attachments that are secured to the remaining underlying teeth or specialized dental implants.
Implant-Supported Dentures
As the name implies, this type of denture attaches to a select number of strategically placed implants in the upper or lower jaw. These small surgical posts provide precise points of attachment for the overlying denture and add a significant measure of stability and retention.
In situations where some sturdy teeth remain, partial dentures can offer an effective solution for the replacement of missing teeth. Partial dentures typically achieve adequate retention and stability with clasps or precision attachments on the teeth adjacent to the edentulous areas (the spaces formerly occupied by the missing teeth).
Removable partial dentures can fill the void left by individual missing teeth and multiple ones to restore the look and function of a complete smile. At the same time a partial denture fills the gaps left by missing teeth; it also stabilizes the dentition and bite and prevents unwanted drifting of the remaining natural teeth.
As with full dentures, partial denture design and fabrication varies based on a patient’s specific needs. With advances in dental materials and technology, partial denture wearers have more options than ever before. Today, a partial denture’s supportive framework can be fabricated from various materials, including cast metal, flexible resins, and hybrid materials.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we’re dedicated to building healthy and beautiful smiles. As your trusted partner in care, you can depend on our office to design and fabricate a denture that will look good, fit comfortably, and serve you well for years to come.
Fabricating an attractive, well-fitting, and long-lasting denture requires a comprehensive understanding of oral function, facial aesthetics, dental materials, and appliance design. At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we maintain a position at the forefront of advances in care and successfully combine the art and science of dentistry to provide patients with outstanding treatment outcomes.
Once we’ve had an opportunity to review your medical and dental history, assess all aspects of your smile, and discuss your expectation of care, we’ll discuss the best options for restoring and rebuilding your smile.
Based upon a comprehensive analysis of your case, including advanced diagnostic imaging, we’ll advise you if any dental work, additional procedures, or extractions are required prior to the fabrication of a partial or complete denture. It’s essential that any remaining teeth are healthy and have sufficient bone support. Sometimes, a pre-prosthetic procedure to improve the tissue anatomy and ensure a denture’s optimal fit is recommended.
Having a denture or set of dentures made is a sophisticated process involving dental impressions, framework try-ins, selecting the right shade, shape, and size of the artificial teeth, and making sure that the bite and all aspects of oral function are comfortable and healthy. Whether it takes a single visit or a few visits to fabricate a partial or complete denture, a satisfying and healthy outcome relies on the careful execution of every step in care.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, our patients' care and comfort are our top priorities. Our goal is to help patients enjoy optimal oral health and to keep them well informed every step of the way.
Adjusting to wearing a new denture
Getting used to wearing a new denture, especially a full denture, can take a little time. It’s not unusual to need some minor adjustments as you begin to speak, chew, and function with your new teeth. It can take a few adjustments to fit completely and feel comfortable. If you have a sore spot, try to wear the denture at least the day before your adjustment visit. In this way, we can see exactly where we need to relieve the area causing your irritation.
More saliva than usual
One of the natural responses to a new denture is for your mouth to produce more saliva. Not to worry, this is only a temporary reaction. The flow of saliva gradually decreases back to a normal level.
Speaking with ease
While it may seem challenging to speak clearly at first with a new denture, that feeling will pass within a few days. It’s important to keep talking, as usual, to allow yourself to adapt to your new set of teeth. You can help things along by reading some passages from printed materials or a computer out loud.
Getting used to eating with a denture
If this is your first denture, it can also take some time to adapt to eating with your new prosthesis. Getting used to eating with a full denture is typically more challenging than doing so with a partial denture. It’s best to start with soft foods and to avoid chewing on just one side. Your tongue, lips, cheeks, and soft tissues will soon adapt to chewing with your new denture, and from then on, you’ll be able to eat with ease.
Taking care of your dentures
It’s essential to keep your denture clean! Rinse your dentures after eating and brush them daily. In this way, you can prevent stains and bacteria from accumulating on your new set of teeth. It helps to use a brush designed for dentures. Also, remember to soak your dentures in water when you’re not wearing them and at least once a week in the recommended denture cleaner.
Brush any remaining teeth as well as your gums to keep them clean and the tissues healthy and firm. If you wear an upper denture, rinse and gently clean the roof of your mouth as well.
Take your dentures out at bedtime. This practice gives the gums and the jawbone a chance to rest, helping to prevent irritation and infection as well as bone resorption (shrinkage).
Added stability
Due to the status of the underlying tissues and other factors, there are some cases where full dentures benefit from additional means of retention. While denture adhesive is often sufficient, full dentures that are implant-supported or clip onto special attachments offer added stability and retention.
Follow-up care
Maintaining oral health and overall well-being involves routine checkups and care. At these visits, we not only check the fit and condition of your dentures but we also perform a comprehensive exam to check the status of any remaining teeth as well as assess the health of all of the soft and hard tissues in and around the oral cavity.
Relines
Over time, the tissues supporting the denture can change. As the shape and contours of these tissues shrink or remodel, your denture may not fit as comfortably or feel as stable as it once did. A separate procedure, which is known as a reline, may be recommended.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of care. If you have any additional questions or concerns about your new dentures, feel free to contact our office.
Today, it’s easier than ever to replace missing teeth and achieve natural-looking, durable, and long-lasting results! Depending a patient’s dental needs, lifestyle, expectations of care, and budget, choices can include conventional fixed bridgework, dental implants, or removable partial and complete dentures. At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we’ll discuss all your options in care and answer all your questions as you choose the solution that’s right for you.
With advances in dental materials and technology, today’s dentures are more comfortable and realistic-looking than ever before.
Whether you wear partial or complete dentures, it’s essential to see the dentist for routine care. Besides checking the fit and condition of your dentures and making any necessary adjustments, you’ll also receive a comprehensive exam to check on the health of any remaining teeth as well the soft and hard tissues in and around the oral cavity.
A same-day denture offers an accelerated design and fabrication process that allows a patient to go from impression taking to denture insertion in a single day.
For patients who don’t want to wait after having teeth extracted, an immediate denture can be inserted the same day your teeth are removed. Sometime later you may need the denture reline to address any changes in its fit once the extraction sites have completely healed.
While no one wants to drop or break a partial or complete denture, accidents do happen. The good news is that in some cases, your partial or complete denture is reparable. It all depends on the extent of the damage. Don’t hesitate to contact our office if you’ve broken or damaged your denture. We’re happy to help.
The simple act of taking your partial denture in and out can cause certain types of metal clasps to loosen over time. When you come in for your checkup visit or contact our office for an adjustment, we’ll assess the fit of your partial and tighten the clasps for improved stability and comfort.
While rebuilding a complete smile is a worthwhile investment, our office is sensitive to the costs involved in dental care. We customized care and will discuss which treatment options address your needs, lifestyle, and budget. How much a new denture will cost depends on the type of the prosthesis, its design, and the materials used to fabricate the supportive base, teeth, and clasps or precision attachments. Dentures that include the placement of dental implants for added retention and stability typically involve additional costs.
If you have dental insurance, your coverage may include a new or replacement set of dentures. Our staff is happy to review your coverage with you to ensure you are maximizing your insurance benefits while minimizing any out of pocket expenses.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we provide an extensive range of dental services, including the latest and most effective methods to help patients with missing teeth rebuild complete and beautiful smiles. As skilled and experienced professionals, we recognize that every patient is different, and every smile is unique. We’re passionate about what we do and take great pride in providing personalized treatment plans while treating our patients as valued partners in care.
Digital radiography utilizes computer technology and digital sensors for the acquisition, viewing, storage, and sharing of radiographic images. It offers several advantages over the older traditional film based methods of taking x-rays. The most significant of these advantages is that digital radiography reduces a patient’s exposure to radiation. Other benefits are that images can be viewed instantly after being taken, can be seen simultaneously as needed by multiple practitioners, and can be easily shared with other offices. Digital x-rays are also safer for the environment as they do not require any chemicals or paper to develop.
An electronic pad, known as a sensor is used instead of film to acquire a digital image. After the image is taken, it goes directly into the patient’s file on the computer. Once it is stored on the computer, it can be easily viewed on a screen, shared, or printed out.
Dental emergencies can come about in any number of ways. Your discomfort may be due to an injury to the oral facial area, the acute flare up of a longstanding problem, or the result of the sudden onset of seemingly inexplicable pain. Whatever the case may be, urgent dental care is needed to provide you with relief and to avoid any further consequences to your oral health or function, as well as your overall well being.
There are many reasons to seek emergency dental care, including severe toothaches, chipped or fractured teeth, a dental abscess, impacted teeth, loose or broken fillings, lost or dislodged crowns, broken dentures and more. While the pain of a toothache is one of the more common reasons that patients come to our dental office for emergency dental care, we also promptly treat emergencies that are not necessarily painful like crowns that have been dislodged and broken dentures that leave embarrassing gaps in one’s smile.
Whether your dental emergency is painful, if it affects the appearance of your smile, or if you suspect that an infection is present, contact our office immediately for care. We will make every effort to see you as promptly as possible.
Losing a tooth due to injury, dental decay, or gum disease can happen. However, in order to avoid causing problems for the adjacent teeth and your overall dental health, it is important to replace the tooth that has been lost. This can be done any number of ways including fixed bridges, removable partial or full dentures as well as a more recent procedure known as dental implants.
One of the most significant dental innovations in recent times, an implant is a small surgical fixture made of biocompatible metal or ceramic materials that is placed into the jawbone and functions in the same manner as the root of tooth. In the same way that natural root supports the natural crown of your tooth, an implant once it fully integrates with the surrounding bone, provides a stable and durable foundation for a replacement tooth. Implants often support a crown for an individual tooth, but can also be used as abutment teeth for a dental bridge, or strategically placed to help stabilize a denture.
Out of all the restorative choices available today, an implant comes the closest to replicating the look, feel and function of a natural tooth. Furthermore, it is the only method of tooth replacement that does not require the involvement or preparation of the adjacent teeth. A dental implant also stimulates bone remodeling to prevent shrinkage in areas where teeth are missing and helps to restore facial contours in areas where significant bone loss has occurred.
Our office will perform the implant crown procedure only. We work with an outside office should you need the actual implant placed.
Chronic jaw clenching and grinding one’s teeth is called bruxism. While it can happen any time of day, it often occurs at night causing an individual to wake up with any number of symptoms including jaw pain, headaches, and sore teeth that may feel loose. Although, stress and anxiety are the most common causes of bruxism there may be other contributing factors such as a sleep disorder, an abnormal bite, as well as teeth that are missing or poorly aligned.
To alleviate the symptoms of bruxism, wearing a night guard while sleeping is frequently recommended. This appliance is designed to fit over the teeth and to keep the jaws slightly apart. Wearing a night guard prevents a number of damaging events, including muscle strain, excessive pressure on the jaw joint (the TMJ), and such dental damage as chipped or cracked teeth resulting from the teeth grinding against each other.
In addition to preventing damage to the soft and hard tissues surrounding the orofacial cavity, a custom night guard fabricated at the dental office can help curb a bruxism habit and give the wearer a better night’s sleep.
Oral cancer accounts for 2.9% of all diagnosed cases of cancer in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society it is estimated that 51,000 people across the country will develop oral cancer this year and that 10,000 fatalities are expected from the disease.
Oral cancer can occur anywhere in the orofacial complex but is most often found on the tongue, the tonsils and oropharynx, the gums, floor of the mouth, lips, cheek lining or the hard palate. While the disease can affect anyone, men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer as women. Those particularly at risk for oral cancer are men over the age of 50 who are heavy smokers and frequently drink alcohol. Additional risk factors may include UV exposure from the sun or sunlamps, GERD (gastro-intestinal reflux disease), prior head and neck radiation treatment, exposure to certain chemicals and poor diet. While the death rate from oral cancer has been decreasing in the past several decades thanks to early detection and advanced methods of treatment improving the outcomes of care, there has been a recent rise in the incidence of oropharyngeal cancer due to increased transmission of the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV).
As part of a comprehensive exam, the dentist will perform a screening for oral cancer. To start, the dentist will review the patient’s medical and dental histories and ask if there have been any changes to his or her oral health or overall health. The dentist will then carefully check in and around the oral cavity as well as the head and neck area for signs or symptoms that may indicate the presence of a problem
According to recent studies good oral hygiene is essential not only for your dental health, it is important to your overall health and well-being. Our comprehensive dental hygiene program is designed to preserve your teeth and the supporting structures by preventing the onset, progress, and recurrence of dental disease.
To maintain your optimal oral health we recommend periodic professional dental cleanings. Removing plaque and debris from teeth, especially from places where a toothbrush can't reach, like underneath the gum line and in-between teeth is extremely important.
It is also important to keep in mind that in conjunction with periodic dental professional cleanings, a good dental home care regimen is necessary. As part of the preventive program at this office your current home care practices will be reviewed. Following that, we will make recommendations as to what areas require improvements, and instruct you in the proper methods of brushing and flossing.
Additional preventive services may be indicated for individual patients. An integral part of our preventive program for pediatric patients includes periodic fluoride treatments and the application of dental sealants.
If you are told that a tooth requires a root canal procedure, there’s no need for alarm. Today, a root canal procedure is as routine and comfortable as receiving a dental filling. As a matter of fact, a root canal procedure is typically the best way to relieve toothache pain, save a damaged tooth, and preserve your natural smile.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we use the latest technology to provide precise and gentle care to help patients maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. Patient care and comfort are our top priorities, and you can rest assured your oral health is in the best of hands.
With a demonstrated success rate of well over 90%, root canal procedures remain the most effective way of saving and retaining a tooth that has been severely compromised by dental decay or injury. Because having a healthy natural dentition supports your oral health and overall well-being, root canal therapy, as opposed to having the involved tooth extracted, is a routine and widely recommended procedure. Across the United States alone, root canal procedures are routinely performed almost 41,000 times daily and close to 15 million times per year.
Your teeth are much more than just the hard outer biting surfaces and the roots. Inside each one is a central chamber containing connective tissue, a nerve supply, and blood vessels. Collectively, these core tissues, known as the dental pulp, help your tooth to grow and mature before it emerges into the mouth. Once your tooth is in place, the dental pulp provides nourishment, keeps the tooth vital, and alerts you of problems.
Having sensitivity to various stimuli like biting down and eating or drinking hot or cold items is a warning from the nerves inside your tooth that dental decay is present, dental trauma has occurred, or infection is brewing. The degree of pain that you experience depends on the extent of the damage and nerve involvement.
When a tooth needs a root canal, it is because the dental pulp has become irreversibly damaged or has died. However, if enough intact tooth structure remains, and there’s good bone support around the compromised tooth, you do not need to have the tooth extracted. A fully developed tooth does not require the dental pulp to remain functional. You can preserve your natural tooth by having your dentist perform a root canal on the tooth.
Although not every instance of dental discomfort indicates the need for root canal therapy, some of the warning signs that you might require this procedure include the following:
Pain is your body’s way of signaling that something is amiss. Although, there are many explanations for oral pain, one of the most common reasons is a toothache caused by decay or damage that has affected the tooth’s inner vital tissues. Patients in need of root canal therapy often report dental pain that wakes them up at night.
If the pleasure of sipping hot beverages or foods are overshadowed by dental pain that makes you wince, it's time to contact our office. Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks can indicate an inflamed, irritated, or non-vital dental pulp.
If it hurts when you bite and chew or when you just touch the tooth, it may indicate pulpal involvement, irreversible damage to the inner vital tissues of the tooth, or the presence of an infection.
A discolored tooth is often a message that the inner vital tissues, including the tooth’s nerve and blood supply, have been compromised. Teeth that have sustained an injury may demonstrate discoloration as the internal tissues have devitalized.
An injury that chips or fractures a tooth can also traumatize the dental pulp or even compromise so much tooth structure that a root canal procedure is required to save the tooth.
Swelling of the gums around a tooth may indicate that an infection has developed. While the swelling can worsen and cause more harmful consequences, sometimes a dental abscess starts to ooze pus and drain. In either case, prompt care is required.
The pathology associated with a tooth need of root canal therapy can damage the bone supporting the tooth and produce some mobility. Root canal therapy can often resolve this issue as tissue healing occurs.
While some of the above signs and symptoms can indicate other dental problems, they all require prompt evaluation and care. In some cases, a tooth in need of root canal therapy has not yet demonstrated overt symptoms. It may first get diagnosed and brought to your attention following a comprehensive, routine exam. Typically, these teeth show radiographic evidence of periapical pathology (root end pathology) or other types of structural damage.
It is essential that when a root canal is recommended that you receive timely care. Delaying the procedure increases the risk of more widespread and severe symptoms developing. A dental infection can pose significant consequences to your oral health and even threaten your overall health and well-being.
With the modern dental instruments and advanced techniques available today, having a non-surgical root canal procedure is often as comfortable as getting a routine dental filling.
While some root canals can be completed in one visit, others may involve 2 or 3 appointments. How long it takes depends on factors such as the number of canals in a tooth, its anatomy, and whether an active infection is present.
During a root canal procedure, our dentist will remove the diseased dental pulp, clean the internal portion of your tooth, and then fill all the prepared canals with a biocompatible filling material. Root canal therapy is typically performed under local anesthesia, but additional options in dental sedation are available to reduce any anxiety associated with dental procedures.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, the care and comfort of our patients are our top priorities. Our goal is to help our patients enjoy optimal oral health and to keep them well informed every step of the way.
After your root canal procedure, you may experience the following:
Immediately following your dental visit, you may experience a period of lingering numbness. Normal sensation typically returns within an hour or two. However, until the anesthetic has completely worn off, it’s essential to protect yourself from unintentionally biting or injuring your lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue. Be mindful of chewing, drinking hot beverages, or smoking.
A root canal procedure will alleviate the pain of a toothache. However, you may still experience some mild to moderate discomfort in the immediate aftermath when the anesthesia wears off. These feelings should subside within days. To help prevent any undue pressure, which may cause pain, the biting surface of the involved may be slightly filed and taken out of occlusion. Our office will also recommend appropriate over-the-counter pain medications and provide a prescription if indicated.
If you have been given a prescription for antibiotics to treat or prevent an infection, it’s essential to complete the course of medications as prescribed.
Even with a temporary filling, a tooth with a root canal remains vulnerable to stress and can fracture until a permanent crown or suitable permanent restoration is placed. In the interim, be mindful of the involved tooth. Try to chew on the opposite side of the mouth and avoid hard and sticky foods.
While you need to be mindful of a tooth that has received root canal therapy, it’s essential to continue to brush and floss. By maintaining proper oral hygiene, you’re preventing further problems as well as supporting healing and optimal oral health.
To rebuild the strength and integrity of a tooth that has received a root canal therapy, it needs to be restored with a permanent crown or suitable restoration. Until that time, the remaining tooth structure is weak and vulnerable to fracture. The sooner a permanent restoration is placed, the sooner you can bite and chew with confidence and ease.
With proper maintenance and care, a tooth that has been treated with root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of care. If you have any additional concerns, continuing discomfort, or signs of an infection, or concerns following your procedure, contact our office for prompt attention and care.
A root canal procedure is the best way to save a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury and preserve your natural smile. The alternative is an extraction and treatment to replace the tooth. While at times a tooth is non-restorable and an extraction is the only option, when possible, it’s best to try and save your natural tooth. With proper care, a tooth with root canal therapy care can serve your smile well for many years to come.
Despite lingering myths from before the age of modern dental anesthesia and technology, having a root canal procedure today is as routine and comfortable as visiting the dentist for a filling. While the procedure is performed under local anesthesia with your tooth completely numbed, we can also discuss options in dental sedation.
Whether the symptoms of a dental infection subside after a course of antibiotics, a draining abscess provides you with some temporary pain relief, or a tooth with radiographic evidence of pathology has not yet developed symptoms, it’s essential, before an infection worsens or occurs, to have a root canal procedure performed. In this way, the tooth can be disinfected, filled, and sealed to protect your health and avoid further problems.
If you have sustained a dental injury, have a toothache, jaw pain, swelling, or are experiencing any other unusual and uncomfortable oral symptoms, contact our office immediately for care. Dental problems that have not been evaluated and treated can significantly worsen, producing more severe damage and consequences for the involved teeth, your oral health, and even your overall wellbeing. Once you get in touch with our office, our friendly and compassionate office team will get you in for care at your earliest convenience.
While some root canal procedures can be completed in one visit, others may involve 2 or 3 appointments. How long it takes depends on various factors, including active infection, the number of canals in the tooth, and the tooth’s location or anatomy.
With a success rate that exceeds 95%, root canal therapy remains the most effective procedure to save a tooth in which the inner vital tissues have been damaged. However, as with all healthcare procedures, there are a small percentage of cases where the teeth become symptomatic a second time. The good news is that many of these teeth can still be saved with root canal retreatment or a minor surgical procedure known as an apicoectomy.
The best ways to maintain a tooth with root canal therapy are to get the proper restoration required to rebuild and protect the tooth, maintain proper oral hygiene, and schedule appointments for routine dental checkups and care.
Saving a tooth with root canal therapy is a wise investment that, in the long run, is typically less costly and invasive than having the tooth extracted and replaced with a fixed bridge or implant. As far as the exact cost of care, it can vary depending on which tooth is being treated. Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for root canal therapy. At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we do our best to optimize your dental benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. Our staff answer all your questions about the cost of care and discuss all your payment options.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we use the latest technology and most effective methods of care to provide precise and gentle care. Our reputation for excellence is based upon a consistent record of achieving successful treatment outcomes while providing prompt, stress-free, and convenient treatment for every type of dental need.
Sometimes it is necessary to extract a tooth. This can happen for a variety of reasons. Extractions are commonly performed in cases where a deciduous “baby” tooth is reluctant to fall out, a severely broken down and non-restorable tooth is present, or “wisdom tooth” is poorly positioned and unable to fully erupt into place.
To reduce any anxiety and insure patient comfort whenever a tooth extraction is necessary, the procedure, the post surgical instructions, as well as any restorative follow-up care will be carefully and completely explained.
Our office will only perform simple extractions. Should your procedure be more involved, we will happily refer you to a specialist.
Sleep apnea is a serious and potentially life threatening disorder involving repeated pauses in breathing while asleep. The most common form of this condition is obstructive sleep apnea. This occurs when there is an obstruction of an individual’s airway that interferes with the flow of oxygen through the nose or mouth during sleep. In someone afflicted with obstructive sleep apnea, the muscles of the throat and mouth relax during sleep to the point where they fall back into the upper airway and create a blockage that restricts breathing.
The signs and symptoms of this disorder during sleeping hours may include, loud snoring, episodes of breathing cessation, abrupt awakenings, episodes of gasping for air, along with difficulties getting a good night’s sleep. An individual with sleep apnea will exhibit problems during the day as well. Sleep apnea can lead to a morning headache, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.
A sleep study is typically conducted to determine the severity of the disorder. The results of this study along with other medical findings will play a role in determining the recommended therapy. The most common form of therapy is a CPAP machine that is worn when sleeping. This device provides a steady stream of pressurized air into the respiratory system through a mask.
In situations of mild to moderate sleep apnea, a dental appliance may be deemed the appropriate treatment. Worn in a similar fashion to a mouthguard or an orthodontic retainer, it is designed to help keep the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat from collapsing, thereby enabling the airway to stay open during sleep. An oral appliance is easy to wear, easy to care for, comfortable, and portable. Oral appliances are individually fabricated, and customized for both maximum effectiveness and comfort.
Improving the appearance of your smile can make a difference in your confidence and overall quality of life. At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we provide experienced care, skillfully combining the art and science of dentistry to give patients teeth that are as beautiful as they are healthy.
If your teeth appear dull, drab, discolored, or stained, don't despair. Thanks to advances in cosmetic dentistry, you too can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile. With a teeth whitening procedure from our office, we can quickly and dramatically lighten and brighten your smile.
You can rest assured your smile in the best of hands with us. We use the latest generations of professional strength teeth whitening systems to transform the appearance of your teeth and give you a smile that's several shades lighter, brighter, and more vibrant than before your procedure.
As dedicated providers of care, our goals are to help every patient maintain good oral health and wear their best-looking smile. We tailor treatment to address individual needs and meet every patient's expectations of care.
After examining your smile and determining if a teeth whitening procedure is suitable for you, we'll recommend the best in-office procedure or a take-home whitening system to achieve your cosmetic goals.
How white your teeth look depends on how they reflected and scattered light. Although external staining is typically due to certain foods, beverages, or tobacco use, internal tooth discoloration is usually the result of genetics, certain medications, tooth decay, restorations, and trauma. Aging also plays a significant role in tooth color. Over time, as the outer layer of enamel thins, the yellow inner layer of dentin becomes more apparent.
Teeth whitening or bleaching simply refers to any process that will make the teeth appear whiter. Today, there's an abundance of choices in teeth whitening products and procedures available to you. Options run the gamut from over-the-counter toothpastes, rinses, strips, or gels to professionally supervised in-office treatments and customized take-home kits.
With so many choices in care, how do you know which one to select? Despite the many over-the-counter products on the market today, it's essential to keep in mind that the premiere teeth whitening systems are the professional-strength ones provided by the dentist. Not only do these whitening systems offer a higher concentration of whitening components than the ones available in stores or online, but they also get delivered to the teeth in the safest, most effective, and well-supervised way.
While you may be tempted to purchase a kit in the drugstore or online, be careful. Some over-the-counter teeth whitening products can damage the teeth and soft tissues in the mouth. Even though many work when healthy teeth and gums are present, they may be ineffective or problematic when sensitive teeth, exposed roots, cavities, broken fillings, cracked teeth, or loose dental work exist.
Whitening products typically fall into one of two of the following categories:
Under the category of peroxide containing bleaching agents, most whitening systems contain either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient. While both can readily permeate the enamel to achieve pleasing results, the concentration of either one of these ingredients determines the strength, effectiveness, and safety level of the whitening system.
Teeth whitening systems rely on a chemical reaction between the bleaching agent and the discolored molecules. As the latter get oxidized, the stains and discoloration get broken up and erased.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we combine the art and science of dentistry to create beautiful and healthy smiles. We value your investment and provide treatment that supports good oral health while fulfilling your smile goals and expectations of care. We offer a range of advanced cosmetic dental services and will help you choose the option that's right for your smile.
While teeth whitening procedures in most cases produce highly satisfying results, not every type of stain or discoloration responds well to one. First of all, a teeth whitening procedure only works on natural teeth and does not change or improve the color of dental fillings, crowns, or bridges. It should also be mentioned that just as individuals with yellow tones to their teeth typically respond well to a teeth whitening, brown and grayish teeth can respond less well and may require more intensive whitening regimens or alternative cosmetic treatments. Furthermore, a teeth whitening procedure may not be recommended in the presence of sensitive teeth, worn enamel, and significant gum disease.
You can trust us to take a close look at your smile and advise you if a teeth whitening is right for you, or if another cosmetic procedure offers healthier and better results.
Watch what you eat and drink
Maximizing the benefits of a teeth whitening procedure involves being mindful of what you eat and drink. This guideline is especially true for the first 48 hours following an in-office treatment. The reason is the ultra-thin, membranous protective layer of the tooth that was temporarily removed as a result of the whitening procedure takes a couple of days to reestablish itself.
You can protect the results by avoiding deeply colored foods and beverages that can stain your teeth!
Refrain from drinking coffee, red wine, dark soft drinks, and teas. Stay away from fruits like berries and grapes, and chocolate products as well as other foods that are darkly colored.
Feel free to eat and drink foods with a low potential to stain your teeth!
Beverages such as water, milk, white wine, and clear soft drinks are okay. Eating fruits such as a banana or peeled apple are fine. Cheeses, as well as white foods like chicken, fish, pasta, oatmeal, potatoes, and bread prepared without red sauces or dressings, are acceptable as well.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking stains and yellows your teeth under the best of circumstances. If you are a smoker and have just had your teeth whitened, it's a good idea to refraining from the habit for at least the first couple of days. Of course, smoking less frequently after that or quitting the habit altogether not only benefits the appearance of your smile but also your oral health and overall well-being.
Some sensitivity is normal.
You may experience some sensitivity to cold and hot for a couple of days. This discomfort typically subsides. We recommend taking over-the-counter pain medication just as you would for a headache. Using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth may also be helpful.
Treatment Results
While teeth whitening procedures provide satisfying outcomes of care, it's essential to keep in mind that results vary from patient to patient. Both short-term and long-term results are influenced by the original shade of the tooth, diet, and oral habits.
Also, as explained before treatment, teeth whitening procedures do not change the color of existing fillings, crowns, bridgework, or dental bonding. If this issue presents an aesthetic concern, we can discuss replacing a restoration.
Keeping your smile bright
Maintaining the results of treatment also rely upon proper oral hygiene and routine dental care. We'll also discuss a take-home whitening system if any periodic touch-ups are indicated following the procedure or down the road.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we're dedicated to providing the highest quality of care. If you have any additional questions or concerns about your teeth whitening procedure, feel free to contact our office.
While an overwhelming selection of over-the-counter teeth whitening products is readily available for purchase at stores or online, it's imperative to keep in mind that the healthiest and most effective methods of care are those professionally supervised by your dentist. With a teeth whitening procedure provided by our office, we can safely, comfortably, and effectively transform your smile by up to several shades in a short amount of time.
Teeth whitening offers a simple and non-invasive to whiten and brighten your smile. Whitening products contain various strengths of biologically safe hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide that act as bleaching agents on stained or discolored dental enamel. By breaking the stains into smaller pieces, these bleaching agents make the color less concentrated and your teeth brighter.
Every patient is different, and despite the fact that many people experience no sensitivity or pain with a professional teeth whitening, there are some that do. Although considered a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure, some temporary discomfort during and following the procedure may ensue. It helps to stick to room temperature beverages for a few days following a teeth whitening. You can also take over-the-counter pain medication as you would for a headache. If you have a history of sensitive teeth, we may select a gentler formulation of whitening products or an alternative procedure.
It's essential to keep in mind that every patient has unique needs and specific requirements of care. In general, individuals with yellow tones to their teeth respond best to teeth whitening. Brown and grayish tinted teeth bleach respond less well and may require significantly longer dentist-supervised tooth whitening regimens or alternative cosmetic treatments. Finally, teeth whitening may not be recommended in the presence of sensitive teeth, worn enamel, and significant gum disease.
For darkly stained teeth, a whitening procedure may not provide the cosmetic results desired. In these cases, we'll talk about alternative options such as porcelain veneers or full-coverage crowns.
Teeth whitening only works on natural teeth. The fact that whiteners do not affect the color of existing dental fillings, veneers, bonding, crowns, or bridges on the front teeth remains an important consideration when choosing the best cosmetic option in care.
As a rule, the healthiest and most effective methods of teeth whitening are the ones managed and supervised by your dentist. You can count on our office to provide the most effective, safest, and satisfying professional-strength options to whiten, brighten, and lighten your smile! Stay away from over-the-counter products, which may be overly abrasive or put the health of your teeth and the surrounding soft tissues at risk. While these products may work when healthy teeth and gums are present, they're often ineffective or problematic when sensitive teeth, exposed roots, cavities, broken fillings, cracked teeth, or loose dental work are the case.
How long your teeth whitening lasts depends on your lifestyle. Your eating, drinking, and smoking habits can have a significant impact on maintaining your result. Of course, the best way to ensure that your smile stays healthy and beautiful is a good daily oral healthcare regimen, along with regular dental checkups and cleanings.
It's essential to keep in mind that as a cosmetic dental procedure, a teeth whitening may not be covered by your insurance plan. We understand the financial considerations involved in care and do our best to help you get the treatment you need without any additional stress or day. We offer several payment options and financing plans to make things easier.
At the office of Steven W. Campbell, DDS, we want every patient to enjoy the benefits of a smile that is as beautiful as it is healthy. In addition to offering a comprehensive range of advanced services to keep your smile in tip-top health, we also provide leading-edge cosmetic solutions to transform less-than-perfect-looking teeth into ones that dazzle.