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FAQ
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Deep Teeth Cleaning
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Is a comprehensive cleaning really necessary?
Some individuals can keep their oral hygiene in check by merely going to the dentist twice per year for routine professional cleaning. Others, on the other hand, may need a procedure that is more invasive in order to help remove calculus, plaque, and other particles that are stuck below the gum line.
Talking to a dentist about whether or not this is the right course of action should never be skipped. The dentist will evaluate your oral health and advise you whether or not a more comprehensive cleaning is necessary.
If you want to keep your health in good standing, you need to schedule regular cleanings at the very least twice a year. If you do not maintain good oral hygiene, the cost of your dental work will increase as time passes.
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Is dental deep cleaning painful?
Going to the dentist is a source of anxiety for many people. The possibility of experiencing pain during a procedure is one of the most common sources of anxiety. It is possible for a deep cleaning to cause discomfort because it is more invasive than a routine dental cleaning.
The good news is that most dentists administer a local or general anesthetic to the patient prior to beginning this procedure. While the dentist performs the procedure, you should feel significantly less pain (or none at all) as a result of the anesthetic.
After the procedure, you may experience some minor discomfort, but this will only happen once the effects of the anesthetic begin to wear off. If you do experience discomfort, keep in mind that it is only momentary and will pass before you know it.
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Are there any potential dangers or drawbacks associated with getting a thorough cleaning?
The people who are most likely to be at risk of infection due to deep cleaning are those who already have a condition that makes them susceptible to infections. The risk of infection is very low. Before undergoing this procedure, you should always make sure to inform your dentist about any existing medical conditions you have.
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How much does it typically cost to get a thorough cleaning done?
The procedure costs vary depending on where you go and what requirements are met. Your insurance might cover this cleaning; the majority of plans cover up to 80 percent of the cost. The cost of scaling and root planing will typically be higher than $270 for each area or quadrant treated. Periodontal treatment will result in higher overall costs compared to a preventative measure.
Because of this, dentists encourage patients to schedule routine appointments so that their teeth can be cleaned and checked. In the United States, average prices typically range from $200 to $300. If the procedure is performed for medical reasons, then it is possible that certain dental insurance programs will cover the cost of the procedure.
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How can I reduce the cost of my dental deep cleaning?
Patients who sign up for our discount plan can potentially receive a sizeable savings off of the price of a comprehensive cleaning. It is essential that you consider the benefits that come with your dental plan. This information can help you determine whether or not it is possible to go through with the procedure with only a small amount of effort on your part.
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Dentures
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What are the prices of dentures supported by implants?
Snap-in dentures or simply implant dentures, which are supported by implants, are another fantastic option. If you're looking for inexpensive removable appliances, this might not fit in your budget, but it's something to think about.
These removable appliances are frequently more effective at chewing than permanent dentures because they protect the jawbone and gum tissue. The patient's capacity to consume, chew, and swallow particular meals may be greatly improved as a result. In comparison to partial or permanent dentures, they are typically more comfortable. Others contend that permanent dentures don't seem as natural as implant-supported dentures.
If you select this option, you must be ready for implant surgery since implant-supported dentures require it. Since they are not cheap, there is a significant likelihood that dental insurance will not cover them either. Implant-supported dentures are sadly not an option if you're seeking for a budget-friendly solution. Dentures supported by implants typically cost up to several thousand dollars.
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What are partial dentures' prices?
For people looking for affordable dentures, partial dentures are a terrific alternative even though they may require some maintenance. If only half of your mouth is in better health, you might not even need an upper or bottom denture. Keeping as many of your natural teeth as you can is, of course, always preferable.
The price of partial dentures will be roughly $700 if you want to replace three teeth. For five teeth or more, the price could rise to almost $1000.
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How much would a whole set of dentures run you?
There are a few things to take into account when figuring out how much partial or complete dentures will cost. Here, time is the most crucial element. You should anticipate that your dentures will cost more if making them takes a lot of time.
Patients should be aware that they might need more appointments, which would raise the overall cost. Of course, you should expect the price to increase if you need your dentures to be created quickly. Whatever method you use, be sure you have a clear understanding of what will be required.
In addition to getting their removable appliances fitted, some patients may choose to get additional dental care. A dental exam, diagnostic casts, tissue conditioning, x-rays, adjustments, and relining are a few related procedures whose costs will be added to your overall bill.
A full set of traditional dentures will cost around $1800. There are affordable removable appliances available, with prices per plate ranging from $300 to $500. Permanent dentures might get very expensive if you're interested in more upscale models. Some patients choose to have their dentures crafted to look as natural as possible and may even have the dentures heated up. These more expensive permanent dentures can set you back anywhere between $5,000 and $8,000.
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Insurance policies: do they cover removable appliances?
The response is somewhat convoluted. You would not be surprised to learn that because partial dentures are typically less expensive, insurance companies are more inclined to pay for them.
There's a chance your insurance company has a spending limit in place if you want inexpensive removable appliances. Patients should speak with their insurance company since they might be eligible for coverage of the cost of affordable dentures. Numerous of these providers have a cost limit of approximately $1000 or $1500, which is most likely just sufficient for affordable dentures or partial dentures.
However, you will be required to cover a portion of the expense if you decide to buy false teeth. If your insurance company sponsors relines, you might want to find out.
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How much would it cost to get every tooth pulled?
For permanent removable appliance, you'll need to have all of your teeth extracted, which will cost between $100 and $200 per tooth. The type of anesthesia you require and whether you have insurance will both have a significant impact on the expense. Asking your dentist about financing options may also be a good idea.
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How soon after having my teeth extracted can I receive dentures?
Most patients can typically get their dentures right away following an extraction. Each patient is different, therefore it can take longer for some.
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Must I get dentures that are permanent?
Permanent Dentures (All on 4)
Permanent dentures are a popular choice among patients who want to boost their self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, it could be a choice made to advance their personal or professional lives. Additionally, permanent dentures can enhance speaking. Dentures also help a person's face maintain its form, giving them a more youthful appearance. After all, losing teeth can significantly alter an individual's appearance. Without permanent dentures, their face could appear older or even "saggy."
Permanent dentures have the disadvantage of requiring regular care and stringent oral hygiene. Over time, they'll deteriorate and need to be replaced.
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Bridges
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Why would I need a dental bridge?
There are many reasons why you will benefit from a dental bridge if you have experienced tooth loss:
- Have you stopped smiling ever since your tooth fell out? Don’t worry, a dental bridge can help make things normal again.
- Dental bridges can prevent your naked gum from developing an infection.
- Losing teeth results in losing the ability to chew food, but getting a dental bridge placed can help fix that.
- Sometimes a missing tooth may affect your gum and jaw structure, which is why it’s essential to fill in any missing teeth as soon as possible.
- Most importantly,
If you are missing a tooth on the lower, the upper tooth may start to drop down into that space simply because of gravity.
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What Is the dental bridge procedure?
Placing a dental bridge is relatively straightforward and can be completed within one to two in-office sittings.
First, the dentist will clean the exposed gum and surrounding area. After this, they will reduce the appropriate surrounding teeth and sterilize the area once more. The teeth are reduced just enough to help support an artificial crown.
Next, an impression is created for the dental laboratory. We then fabricate a temporary bridge while they wait for their permanent bridge to be ready.
Once this is done, Summerlin Dental Solutions will bond the bridge using special dental cement. Sometimes, dentists may choose to anchor the bridge with a dental implant, but this is decided on a case-by-case basis.
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How much does a dental bridge cost?
Dental work is never inexpensive. A traditional or cantilever bridge can cost you anywhere between $1500 and $5000. Maryland bridges cost between $1500 and $2500. If you choose to get an implant-supported bridge, you can expect to pay between $4000 and $15,000.
Luckily, having insurance can significantly reduce the cost associated with these procedures by up to 50%, bringing the maximum cost for a traditional or cantilever bridge down to $2500 with $1250 for a Maryland bridge and $7500 for an implant-supported bridge.
The exact cost varies depending on how difficult the procedure is expected to be.
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How long does a dental bridge last?
Dental bridges typically last between 10 to 15 years, but this number can be increased or decreased depending on how well you care for your teeth. However, if you abuse and neglect the bridge, it may begin to disintegrate in just 5 to 7 years.
Dental bridges can last longer if you brush your teeth regularly. Flossing is essential, too! Try to avoid sugary foods or highly acidic drinks as these can deplete your bridge’s health.
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What are some potential problems with dental bridges?
Dental bridges are effective; placing them is a painless process thanks to anesthesia, and you can have it done relatively quickly. However, this procedure is not without its problems. Below are some common potential issues associated with dental bridges:
- The teeth adjacent to the missing tooth are often reduced to help support a new crown, hence altering adjacent teeth. You can’t get a traditional or cantilever bridge without reducing adjacent teeth.
- Due to their complex structure, dental bridges are slightly more difficult to keep clean. However, if you follow a strict hygiene routine, this shouldn’t be a problem.
- Bridges need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years.
You should keep these things in mind before committing to a dental bridge. There are many benefits of getting a bridge put in place. But many people consider alternatives, the primary one being implants.
Implants tend to last longer than bridges. They can typically offer you protection throughout your entire lifetime, whereas bridges won’t last you more than 10 to 15 years. Furthermore, implants are known to support jaw health. This is because they are entirely anchored within your gum instead of merely being placed over naked gum tissue. With implants, your jaw’s mechanics are not challenged and can continue to function the usual way
Brushing and flossing around the artificial crowns can pose a challenge, and dentists may prescribe additional tooth care methods to help keep your bridge clean and healthy.
However, if you brush regularly with toothpaste, keep yourself up to date with dental checkups, and floss in all the right places, your bridge will definitely remain free from problems.
There are many reasons why people prefer getting an implant over a bridge. However, bridges are still extremely common and have remained a dominant choice despite patients having the option for an implant.
The most essential convincing factor for this result is the cost. Bridges are significantly more affordable than getting an implant. Implants may require additional procedures, like grafting or a sinus lift, which only result in a higher final cost.
Bridges do not require such additional procedures. Things like jawbone density or gum strength are not important and can easily be overlooked. Also, you can easily get a bridge placed without any required surgery.
So, if you’re tight on budget or want to stay away from extensive surgical procedures, schedule a bridge appointment now!
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Bonding
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Why get tooth bonding?
Bonding is a cost-effective and efficient way to remedy a number of cosmetic dental issues. It can be used to build up teeth that have been damaged by an impact or enlarge a tooth that never grew in all the way.
If you have small gaps between two or more teeth, bonding can be used to build up the teeth on either side and eliminate that odd gap.
Other procedures, such as veneers or dental crowns may also be used for certain situations. However, dental bonding is less expensive and less involved. Unless you’re also having a cavity filled, it usually doesn’t even require anesthesia to perform the procedure. For one tooth, your visit should only last about an hour.
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Does bonding ruin your teeth?
Another handy aspect of bonding is that it does not ruin your healthy tooth underneath. We will roughen the tooth up slightly to ensure that the bonding material can stick well. Other than that, your original tooth will be left alone and intact.
This is not the case with other procedures, like veneers, in which the dentist grinds down the front of your tooth to make space for the veneer.
Over time, your tooth may become dependent on the resin as a protective shell and if the bonding is removed for whatever reason, the tooth enamel can be more vulnerable. However, the procedure itself does no damage to the tooth and can be touched up as often as necessary to maintain a gorgeous smile.
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How long does tooth bonding last?
The materials used are not as sturdy as your natural teeth. The composite resin is also more likely to stain, particularly if you smoke or drink a lot of coffee or dark-colored soda.
You can help your tooth bonding last longer by avoiding activities like chewing on ice, biting down on hard food or candies, or anything else that puts more stress on the resin. Keeping up with your oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly can also help avoid problems with staining.
As a rule of thumb, bonding can last about 5-10 years – perhaps a little more with proper care.
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How much does tooth bonding cost?
Because of its relative simplicity, tooth bonding is also not too expensive, relatively speaking. The cost will vary considerably depending on the extent of your procedure.
The average cost of dental bonding ranges from about $200-$400 per tooth. However, you might pay as little as $100 for a very small procedure and up to $1000 for something more extensive.
Keep in mind that these prices are per tooth. To close gaps, it is usually necessary to put bonding on two adjacent teeth, which will make it a bit more expensive.
Furthermore, dental bonding is usually considered a cosmetic dentistry procedure, but not always. This means that your dental insurance may or may not cover it. It never hurts to ask though, because it depends on several factors. If it’s necessary for your health or to prevent it from chipping or cracking further, your dental tooth bonding would likely be covered by insurance.
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Invisalign® Treatment
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How frequently should I wear my aligners?
Our Summerlin dental clinic advises patients to wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day, taking them out only to eat, floss, and brush their teeth.
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How are aligners created?
Once you've made the decision to receive treatment at our Summerlin Dental office, we'll take impressions and pictures to send to the Align lab. In that location, Align technology will scan the impressions into a computer and produce a series of aligners that will shift your teeth into the ideal position over the course of one to two weeks.
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How much does Invisalign cost?
The key element affecting the charge is the movement's complexity. Typically, fees range from $3,500 to $8,500.
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Does Invisalign for teeth straightening fall under insurance coverage?
Invisalign should typically be reimbursed to the same amount as traditional braces if a patient at our Summerlin dental office has orthodontic coverage. The majority of insurance policies that cover orthodontics will contribute up to a certain maximum toward the cost of your treatment.
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Will speaking differently while using Invisalign aligners?
Some people's speech may only be affected for a few days by clear aligners, and you might lisp slightly for a day or two. Any lisp brought on by the aligners should go away as you become used to wearing them in your mouth.
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Do clear aligners actually work to straighten teeth?Yes! Invisalign has helped more than 1.5 million patients with a range of tooth issues. Dental offices all over the world utilize Invisalign, which was created in collaboration with orthodontists.
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Why Invisalign and not traditional metal braces?
Invisalign could be the solution you've been looking for if you've always wanted your teeth to be more aligned but loathe the idea of wearing traditional metal braces.
The following are some of the reasons why many patients seeking orthodontic treatment in Summerlin choose Invisalign over traditional braces:
- They are made of a transparent material that makes them less noticeable than braces made of metal.
- There is a significant reduction in annoyance due to the absence of wires that can prod and cause discomfort.
- They can be taken out so that you can eat, brush, and floss your teeth.
- Your dentist in Summerlin, Marianne Cohan, D.D.S., will start the procedure by taking impressions of your teeth in order to create a bespoke Invisalign tray for you. These impressions will be utilized in the manufacturing process of the clear aligners that will be used to straighten your teeth. You will be able to see, through the use of computer imaging, how your Invisalign treatment is progressing as well as what the final appearance of your teeth will be like after your treatment is finished.
- You will go back to see Dr. Cohan after a few weeks, and then he will give you your sets of aligners for your teeth, which are nearly invisible. During the first two weeks of treatment, you will need to keep the clear braces on at all times and will only take them off when absolutely necessary. After that, you will be given your next aligner, and the process will start over again until your teeth are in the new position it was intended for them to be in.
- The length of time it takes to complete treatment may range anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the extent to which your teeth need to be corrected. The end result will be a complete set of teeth that are in proper alignment, which you will be pleased to show off.
- Braces have the potential to be a game-changer in one's life! It is critical that the experience be as stress-free and relaxing for you as is humanly possible. Not only is it less obvious to others that you are wearing braces when you have Invisalign, but it is also less of an inconvenience because the aligners can be taken out whenever it is required. Because Invisalign can be removed from the mouth, unlike traditional braces, there are no limitations on the foods or beverages that can be consumed while wearing it.
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Fillings
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Why do dentists recommend using a variety of different fillings for cavities?
The ideal dental filling material for you will typically be suggested by a dentist during your appointment at your Summerlin Dentist. You must be aware, however, that the use of fillings is not restricted to merely the treatment of cavities. They can also be used by a dentist to fix a tooth that has been fractured or cracked. A dentist will select the appropriate kind of material for the filling based on the therapy that will be performed on the patient.
However, the sort of material that your dentist will use depends on a number of other considerations as well, including the location of the cavity, the degree to which the decay has spread, the cost of the material, and whether or not you have dental insurance.
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What do the terms inlays and onlays refer to?
Inlays and onlays can be crafted from porcelain or composite resin in a dental laboratory in Summerlin. These materials are used by our practice. These components are glued to the region of the tooth that has been removed as a result of the injury. Inlays are placed within the cusp tips of a tooth and function in a manner very similar to that of a filling. Onlays are a more extensive form of rebuilding, which can reach out across one or more of a tooth's cusps.
Inlays and onlays crafted from high strength resins have been shown to boost tooth strength by up to 75%, in contrast to the up to 50% reduction in tooth strength that can occur when using standard fillings.
In our Summerlin clinic, completing these restorations often takes place over the course of two appointments.
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What is a cavity filling?
The presence of both pain and sensitivity in a tooth is frequently attributable to the presence of a cavity. That indicates that you will most likely require a filling.
A decaying area of a tooth is referred to as a cavity. The decayed portion of the tooth will need to be removed by a dentist using either a dental drill, an air abrasion device, or a laser. The kind of device used is determined by factors such as the location of the cavity, the degree of decay, and the level of experience of the dentist.
After the cavity has been removed, the dentist will make sure that the area is clean and uncontaminated by any debris or bacteria. After that, the empty space is stuffed with a protective substance that's known as a filling.
It is considered a "basic restorative service" to have fillings done. It is essential to make certain that you do not omit any of the fillings. Your tooth decay or cavity has the potential to develop worse over time and most likely will. If the decay spreads to the nerve endings in your teeth, you will have a considerable increase in the level of discomfort you are experiencing, and the treatment will become more difficult, uncomfortable, and expensive. Don't put off getting your cavities filled.
Are you unsure whether or not you require a filling? Meeting with a dentist is going to be your greatest option in this situation. Your dentist should be able to provide you with a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific situation.
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What other kinds of fillings are there to choose from?
There are several distinct kinds of fillings, and each serves a unique purpose and comes at a unique cost.
Silver fillings
Fillings made of silver are also referred to as amalgams or metal fillings. Metals such as silver, zinc, mercury, copper, and tin are combined with one another to create them. If you take good care of your silver filling, it should last you between 10 and 15 years. Silver is a very durable material. This is an improvement over the composite fillings, which are tooth-colored.
In comparison to other types of dental fillings, amalgams are normally not as often used. Their silver color does not correspond with tooth, which causes them to stand out more. Additionally, they have a greater space requirement within the tooth in order to be effectively attached. This indicates that there is a possibility that the metal filling will grow, which will result in the tooth breaking.
However, it is also the least expensive of all the materials that can be used for dental fillings, which means that it is an excellent option for people who are working with a limited budget. Even with dental insurance, the cost to repair one or two surfaces that contain amalgams can be anywhere from fifty to two hundred dollars. And it goes without saying that the price will go up as the number of surfaces increases.
If you do not have dental insurance, the cost of one of these fillings will begin at approximately $150 and go up from there, depending on how much work your dentist needs to do to restore the tooth.
There is a possibility that some patients will be concerned about the presence of mercury in amalgams. Rest assured that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) deems these choices to be safe for adults as well as children older than 6 years old. Just keep in mind that a very small percentage of individuals, approximately 1%, experience adverse reactions to the mercury that is found in silver fillings.
Gold fillings
Gold fillings are known to survive for decades at a time, making them one of the most long-lasting types of dental restorations. Gold fillings are becoming increasingly rare, despite the fact that some individuals continue to find them to have a cosmetic appeal. The fact that they are made of gold inevitably gives them a high price tag. In addition, it is extremely unusual to locate a dentist who provides gold fillings for patients.
Gold fillings can range in price from $300 to $1,000 for a single surface or for two surfaces. If you want three or more surfaces, expect to spend between 450 and 1800 dollars. Patients who do not have dental insurance should also be prepared to pay up to $4,500 for their treatment.
In addition to the expense, some dentists advise against getting gold fillings if they are going to be placed right next to a silver one. This is due to the possibility that their proximity will create a galvanic shock. This takes place when metals and saliva mix in a way that results in the formation of an electric current. It's not a very pleasant sensation.
Composite resin
A composite filling is a type of filling that is made up of a material that is a combination of glass particles and plastic. Composites are a popular option because their color can be matched to that of teeth; as a result, they are an excellent choice for front teeth as well as other areas that are visible. Most notably, composite resin forms stronger connections to teeth than other materials. It is the method of choice for dentists to employ when repairing chipped, cracked, or worn teeth. In addition, the tooth structure that needs to be removed by the dentist in order to prepare the area for the filling is significantly reduced.
Composite fillings are expected to last anywhere from five to fifteen years, depending on how well they are cared for. Even with dental insurance, the cost of getting a composite filling can be close to $200. If you do not have insurance, you should plan on spending roughly $250 to cover one or two surfaces. (And up to $450 for a filling that covers three or more surfaces simultaneously.)
Ceramic and glass ionomer are two more types of dental filling materials that are utilized by some dental practitioners. Each one can be purchased for a varied range of prices. In most cases, the cost of ceramic fillings is extremely close to that of gold fillings. On the other hand, glass ionomers are analogous to composite resin in terms of their properties.
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Tooth Extractions
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Where can I get a tooth extraction near me?
If you don’t have a go-to dentist, we recommend you call us for emergencies and routine checkups as soon as possible. With Summerlin Dental Solutions you can get the help you need. Then, book a dental appointment and request a consultation.
Tooth extractions are scarier than they are painful. Find a dentist you can trust, and the process should go smoothly.
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Is tooth extraction covered by insurance?
Dental procedures are considered either routine or an emergency. Either way, they can make a huge dent in your bank account. The good news is that unlike cosmetic dental procedures such as teeth whitening, tooth extraction is covered by dental insurance.
As of 2016, 77% of Americans (249.1 million people) had dental insurance which, on average, costs about $360 a year ($15 to $50 per month). This insurance typically covers 100% of preventative care, 80% of basic procedures, and 50% of major procedures.
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How much does a tooth extraction cost?
The cost of a tooth extraction depends on the type of extraction, whether simple or surgical, but is usually somewhere between $200 and $400. Other factors such as the type of anesthesia you need, the area the dental clinic is in, and the type of extraction:
Simple Extraction
This is a routine procedure that involves the removal of visible teeth. With local anesthesia and minimal equipment, this procedure can be carried out in a fairly short time.
An elevator and forceps are used to elevate and grip the tooth. Then, the dentist usually applies a controlled level of force to move the tooth back and forth until the periodontal ligament breaks enough to loosen the tooth sufficiently from the alveolar bone so it can be removed.
There’s no need to worry about moving back and forth or pulling since the area will be sufficiently numbed to minimize any pain and discomfort.
Reasons for a simple extraction include an erupted tooth, normal placement of the tooth in the jawbone, and when the tooth has missing parts due to trauma or decay.
Any of the above conditions will likely require a tooth extraction. The cost of the procedure includes the anesthesia, the sutures if needed, and of course, the procedure itself. X-rays are not always necessary.
The total costs can range between $50 and $500, but on average it’s $200. A simple extraction with a dental exam, periapical X-ray, and some nitrous oxide (laughing gas) will typically cost around $450.
Surgical Extraction
This involves the removal of teeth that are not easily accessible in the mouth. Partially erupted or occluded teeth are common indications for this procedure. Also, teeth that are fractured under the gum line will require surgery.
The teeth often require an incision into the connective tissue or some prior surgical manipulation before they can be successfully extracted.
The price of a surgical extraction ranges from $200 to $700, with an average cost of $300. However, the extraction of impacted teeth can reach as high as $1,000 ($450 on average). When the tooth is broken below the gum line, you can expect to pay between $200 and $600 – about $350 on average.
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How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?This depends on the patient, the type of extraction and the location of the tooth. Generally, most extractions will heal in 7 to 10 days. Keeping the blood clot in place will help the healing process, since dislodging it can cause bleeding and quite possibly an infection, thereby taking longer to heal.
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What are the risks of a tooth extraction?
Some common post-surgical complications of tooth extractions include pain, inflammation, bruising, bleeding, and infection. However, these can be managed with anti-inflammatory medicine, analgesic medicine, and antibiotics prescribed by a dentist.
Prolonged bleeding and infection are less common but worrisome, nonetheless. If this happens, your dentist will determine the cause and treat it appropriately. Other less common risks are improper teeth alignment, bite collapse, delayed healing, dry socket, nerve injury, and maxillary sinus exposure.
Measures will be put in place to ensure your tooth extraction is as risk-free as possible. Also, post-op appointments with your dentist are invaluable in minimizing these risks and adequately treating them if they do occur.
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How can I prepare for a tooth extraction?
Other than requesting an x-ray, your dentist will ask for your medical history. Be sure to let them know if you have any medical conditions or if you’re taking any medications. Also, avoid smoking and eating or drinking 6 to 8 hours before the procedure.
And definitely make arrangements for someone to come with you to the clinic and also drive you home, especially if you’ll be put under general anesthesia.
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Is tooth extraction painful?
The extraction procedure itself is often more uncomfortable than painful. The dentist will determine the type of anesthesia to use depending on your pain threshold and the complexity of the procedure, so you’ll never feel too much of what’s happening in your mouth. Local anesthesia is most used, but general anesthesia or sedation can be used as well.
After the medicine wears off it’s normal to experience pain, but an ice pack and some pain meds will help you deal with the discomfort.
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What happens when you get a tooth pulled?
Immediately after the procedure, you might be too numb or groggy from the anesthesia to feel any pain but do try to keep the gauze pad in place for about three hours afterward.
A blood clot will form in the socket where the tooth was extracted. Don’t spit forcefully, since dislodging the clot can lead to painful dry socket and further complications. As for the swelling, an ice pack should help. Your dentist will likely ask you to do a salt-and-warm-water gargle after 24 hours and may also prescribe pain meds to manage the discomfort.
Make sure to follow all the instructions from your dentist religiously; it’s easier to prevent complications than to treat them. Recovery takes a few days to a few weeks.
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Emergency Dental Care
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Can I go to the ER for a dental emergency?
The emergency room at the local hospital will usually not be able to assist with common dental problems. Usually, emergency dental care is for emergency dentists near me. There are, however, cases where going to the ER is essential. It is important to understand when it’s appropriate to visit the ER department and when a visit to a dental emergency clinic would rather be the better option.
A few reasons why you may want to consider the ER include:
- When the pain rises to a point where it feels unbearable, there may be complications that have already developed. It is especially important for the patient to take note of spreading pain. If the pain spreads throughout the neck and jaw, it could be a sign of spreading infection.
- When there is bleeding in the mouth that won’t stop, the staff at the ER will be able to assist in stopping the bleeding.
- When a swelling is impeding your ability to breathe.
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Can I get a tooth pulled today?
A dental emergency often involves a lot of pain. There may be an infection or bleeding, or a complication may have developed due to a broken tooth. In some cases, you might experience an extreme level of sensitivity at the nerve of the affected tooth.
There are some cases where you may need to look for same day tooth extraction. These situations require careful work from the dentist. The severe pain is caused by an underlying cause. This can be related to an infection, for example. If a tooth is pulled while there is an abscess, there is a risk of the bacteria leaking into the patient’s bloodstream. In this case, you may develop a systematic infection, which can sometimes be life-threatening.
The first step if there is a dental emergency is for the dentist to do a careful exam. The dentist will usually be able to provide you with a drug that helps with pain relief. During the exam, the dentist needs to determine how severe the condition is.
In some cases, the dentist may first provide a different treatment. When there is a severe infection, the dentist may provide you with antibiotics.
The dentist will decide if the same-day extraction is possible. It is important for you to understand the risks that can sometimes be associated with the process. There are cases where surgery may be needed to remove the tooth. In this case, it may not be possible to do the same-day removal, except if the dentist feels the situation is an emergency and requires immediate surgery.
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How can I get emergency dental treatment?
When you experience a dental problem, the first step is to consider the severity. Consider how severe the pain is. If you already know why you have pain, then it’s sometimes easier to determine whether it’s an emergency.
Take note of the scenarios we mentioned previously in this post. This provides a guideline to help you know if the situation you face is an emergency. If so, then proceed to the next step of the process.
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Dry Mouth
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What might be the possible causes?
You will suffer a dryer mouth if your salivary glands are not producing enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. These glands could malfunction properly for the following reasons:
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Which prescription drugs induce a dryer mouth?
Dry mouth has been connected to hundreds of medications, including numerous over-the-counter remedies. There are some drugs that are more prone than others to cause problems. These medicines include antihistamines, decongestants, muscle relaxants, and pain relievers, as well as those used to treat anxiety, high blood pressure, and depression.
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Does aging naturally result in a dryer mouth?
As we frequently observe in our Summerlin Dental practice, a big percentage of the population experiences dry mouth as they become older. Along with the use of particular pharmaceuticals, other variables that contribute to this syndrome include changes in the body's ability to metabolize medication, inadequate nutrition, and long-term health issues.
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What about chemotherapy for those with cancer?
The kind and volume of saliva produced may change as a result of chemotherapy medicines. It's likely that this is a temporary condition, and that after the therapy is over, normal salivary flow will resume. Saliva production may be significantly reduced as a result of salivary gland inflammation brought on by radiation treatments to the head and neck. This could be either temporary or permanent, depending on the radiation dose and the area that was treated.
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Does nerve damage result in a dry mouth?
A head or neck injury or surgical procedure that damages your nerves could be the reason of your dry mouth.
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Do any other medical conditions contribute to dry mouth?
A number of medical conditions, including diabetes, stroke, oral yeast infection (thrush), Alzheimer's disease, and autoimmune diseases like Sjogren's syndrome and HIV/AIDS, can lead to dry mouth. Some drugs may also be the culprit. Snoring and breathing with your mouth open while you sleep can make dry mouth worse.
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What about using tobacco and drinking alcohol?
- Consuming alcoholic beverages, smoking, or chewing tobacco might make dry mouth symptoms worse.
- The recreational use of substances that are unlawful.
- Methamphetamine use can cause the illness known as "meth mouth," which can also cause extreme dry mouth and tooth decay. As a side effect, marijuana can also cause drying mouth.
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