Say Goodbye to Missing Teeth with Dental Bridges

At Dental Health Associates of Madison, we understand the challenges that come with tooth loss. That’s why we offer dental bridges as a reliable, long lasting, and effective solution to restore your smile.

What is a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are custom-made prosthetic devices that are designed to fill the gaps left from missing teeth. They are constructed with two or more crowns, referred to as abutment teeth, which are placed beside the open area to secure the artificial teeth, known as pontics, in place. The result is a seamless and natural-looking restoration that enhances your appearance while also allowing you to chew and speak comfortably.

Why Choose Dental Bridges?

  1. Restore Your Confidence: Our dental bridges are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend that enhances your smile and boosts your self-esteem.
  2. Improve Functionality:. Dental bridges restore your ability to enjoy a diverse diet and speak clearly, allowing you to live your life without limitations.
  3. Maintain Oral Health: When a tooth is missing, adjacent teeth can shift and cause alignment issues. Dental bridges prevent this by filling the gap and keeping your remaining teeth properly aligned.
  4. Long-lasting Solution: With proper care and regular dental visits, dental bridges can last for many years, providing a durable and reliable tooth replacement option.

Our Approach to Dental Bridges 

At Dental Health Associates of Madison, we understand that each patient has unique needs and concerns. Our team is committed to actively listening, explaining the procedure in detail, and answering questions. We will work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan addressing your needs. 

Experience the Difference at Dental Health Associates of Madison. 

When you choose our practice for your dental bridge treatment, you can expect the highest level of care and professionalism. We are dedicated to creating a comfortable, non-judgmental, and welcoming environment where your oral health is our top priority. 

Schedule Your Consultation Today. 

Embrace life to the fullest without letting missing teeth hold you back!. Contact Dental Health Associates of Madison today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists. Together, we will determine if dental bridges are the right solution for you and create a tailored treatment plan to restore your smile.

Request an Appointment and take the first step towards regaining your confidence and enjoying all the benefits dental bridges offer.

Understanding Dental Crowns: Benefits, Procedure, and Types

Understanding Dental Crowns

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a prosthetic restoration that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth. It is custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, providing strength, durability, and aesthetic improvement. Dental crowns can restore the function and appearance of a tooth while preserving its remaining structure.

 When is a Dental Crown Needed?

  • Tooth Decay: Crowns are used when a tooth has extensive decay that cannot be repaired with a filling.
  • Fractured or Broken Teeth: Teeth that are cracked, chipped, or broken can be restored with crowns.
  • Root Canal Treatment: After a root canal, a crown is often placed to protect the treated tooth.
  • Large Fillings: When a large filling compromises the structural integrity of the tooth, a crown can provide reinforcement.
  • Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns can be used to improve the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or severely stained teeth.

The Dental Crown Procedure:

  1. Evaluation: Your dentist will examine your tooth, take X-rays, and discuss treatment options with you.
  2. Tooth Preparation: The tooth receiving the crown will be reshaped to accommodate the crown’s thickness.
  3. Impression: An impression of your tooth will be taken to create a precise mold for the dental laboratory.
  4. Temporary Crown: While your permanent crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth.
  5. Crown Placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and bond the permanent one in place using dental cement.
  6. Adjustment and Polishing: The crown will be checked for proper fit, bite, and appearance. Adjustments may be made, and the crown will be polished for a natural finish.

 

 LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DENTAL CROWN PROCEDURE

 
 

Types of Dental Crowns:

  • Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): These crowns have a metal substructure for strength with a porcelain exterior for a natural appearance.
  • All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain: These crowns offer excellent aesthetics, mimicking the translucency and color of natural teeth.
  • Metal Crowns: Made of alloys like gold or base metals, they are known for their durability and strength.
  • Zirconia Crowns: These crowns are made of a strong ceramic material, providing both strength and esthetics.

Caring for Your Dental Crown:

– Practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily.

– Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods that may damage the crown.

– Schedule regular dental check-ups to ensure the crown’s stability and overall oral health.

– Wear a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth to protect the crown from excessive force.

Benefits of Dental Crowns:

  • Tooth Protection: Crowns provide a protective layer over damaged or weakened teeth, preventing further decay, fractures, or wear.
  • Improved Functionality: Dental crowns restore the shape, size, and strength of damaged teeth, allowing for better chewing, biting, and overall oral function.
  • Aesthetic Enhancement: Crowns are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, improving the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or poorly aligned teeth.
  • Durability: With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years, providing long-term functionality and aesthetics.
  • Versatility: Crowns can be used to address various dental issues, including tooth decay, cracks, fractures, large fillings, root canal-treated teeth, and cosmetic enhancements.
  • Stain Resistance: Depending on the material used, dental crowns can be highly resistant to staining, maintaining their color and brightness over time.

Risks and Considerations of Dental Crowns:

  • Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after crown placement. This usually subsides on its own but can be managed with desensitizing toothpaste or dental treatments.
  • Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, individuals may have an allergic reaction to the materials used in the crown, such as metals or dental ceramics. It is essential to discuss any known allergies with your dentist.
  • Tooth Sensitivity or Nerve Damage: Preparing the tooth for a crown may involve removing a portion of the tooth’s structure, which can result in temporary or, in rare cases, persistent tooth sensitivity. In rare instances, nerve damage may occur during the preparation process.
  • Tooth Decay: While dental crowns protect the underlying tooth, proper oral hygiene is crucial to prevent decay at the crown’s margin or in the surrounding teeth.
  • Crown Failure or Damage: Although rare, dental crowns can fracture, chip, or become loose over time. This is more likely to happen with excessive force, grinding, or biting on hard objects.
  • Adjacent Tissue Irritation: In some cases, the gum tissue around the crown may become irritated or inflamed. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help prevent or address such issues.

Remember, every case is unique, and your dentist will recommend the most suitable type of crown for your specific needs. If you have any questions or concerns, consult with your dentist, who will guide you through the process of getting a dental crown and help you achieve a healthy and confident smile.

 

FIND A DENTIST NEAR YOU 

Getting Started with Dental Implants

Getting Started with Dental Implants

Dental implants are an effective solution for those who have damaged or lost one or more teeth due to injury, disease, or other causes. They provide a secure, long-term solution for restoring your smile and improving the overall health of your mouth.

When considering dental implants, there are many questions to ask yourself and your dentist or periodontist. 

Here are some frequently asked questions about dental implants that may help you in making an informed decision:

What is the difference between dental implants and dentures?

Dental implants: A permanent solution for missing teeth, made from titanium and fused with the jawbone. They do not require removing or replacing like dentures and can last a lifetime if properly cared for. 

Dentures: Removable prosthetics that replace multiple missing teeth; however, they must be taken out at night and require ongoing maintenance and replacement.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants provide many advantages over traditional dentures. They are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, meaning they blend in with your existing teeth and can be cared for just like natural teeth.

Dental implants are small, titanium posts that mimic the root structure of natural teeth. Unlike removable dentures, they don’t require adhesives or special cleaning agents to stay firmly in place.

Are you a good candidate for dental implants?

Most people with missing teeth due to injury, disease, or other causes are good candidates for dental implants. However, you should consult with your dentist and periodontist to determine if you are an ideal candidate. Generally speaking, suitable candidates must have healthy gums and adequate bone in the jaw where the implant will be placed. If these conditions are not met, you may still be a candidate for an implant, but additional treatments or procedures may be necessary before implant placement.

What is involved in the dental implant process?

The dental implant process typically involves several visits to your dentist and periodontist over several months. First, your dentist will refer you to a periodontist, and from there, you will meet with them to discuss treatment plan options and determine the next steps. 

The process generally goes like this…

  1. A referral from a general dentist or endodontist.
  2. The periodontist extracts the tooth.
  3. You let the area heal – I think it’s a few months.
  4. The periodontist places the implant and abutment.
  5. Three months later, your general dentist can place the crown.

If it has been determined that an implant is the best course of action, you will schedule your next visit. If your tooth hasn’t been removed or is still in place, your dentist or periodontist will extract the tooth.

During subsequent visits, your implant will be placed into the jawbone, and an abutment (which connects the implant to the replacement tooth or bridge) will be attached. After your implant has fully integrated with the bone and surrounding tissues, a crown or bridge will be added to restore your smile.

What is the cost of dental implants?

The cost of dental implants will vary depending on several factors, including your case’s complexity and how many teeth need to be replaced. Generally, a single implant can range from $4,000 – $6,500 per tooth, while multiple implants and crowns can range up to $30,000. Be sure to speak with your periodontist or financial coordinator about the specific costs associated with your case.

Will my insurance cover dental implants?

Some insurance providers may cover a portion of the cost, while others may not offer any coverage at all. Before beginning treatment, we recommend you check with your insurance company about out-of-network coverage. Your financial coordinator at the periodontal office can also recommend financing options if needed.

Dental Implant Specialists Near You

Dental implants offer numerous benefits, including improved oral health, increased comfort when eating and speaking, better facial volume, and greater self-confidence. If you’ve been considering dental implants but weren’t sure how to get started, now is the time to take action!

Contact Dental Health Associates today to learn how dental implants can help restore your smile and improve your oral health. We look forward to helping you achieve the best results possible.

Start Your Year with a Whiter & Brighter Smile

teeth whitening treatments madison wi

Give yourself the gift of a spectacularly bright smile.

Smiling boosts your self-confidence and has significant positive health impacts. A simple smile can lower your stress level, makes you more approachable, and can improve your social, personal, and professional life.

However, some of us may have stained or dulled down teeth, restricting us from smiling. Fortunately, many tooth whitening solutions can ensure your inner happiness is reflected outside by your best smile.

Teeth whitening can be done at home or in a dental office via a board-certified dentist. Read ahead as we discuss some top tooth whitening solutions for your best smile.

 

AT HOME TEETH WHITENING SOLUTIONS

Whitening toothpaste

  • Colgate Optic White Advanced gently scrubs away stains and provides a bleaching effect due to its hydrogen peroxide content. In addition, it is safe for the enamel and ensures good results when used appropriately.
  • Crest Pro-health is another great gentle tooth whitening toothpaste, especially if you have sensitive teeth.

Whitening Strips

Whitening strips can be acquired from the drug store and your dentist.

There are a variety of whitening strip kits that can be purchased over the counter from the drug store. These strips are directly applied to your teeth have a low concentration of whitening agents. Make sure to follow all instructions on how often to use the trays as overuse can cause sensitivity and harm your tooth enamel. It is important to remember that at-home teeth whitening can take a long time (months) to show any substantial results.

One thing you may not be aware of is that many dental clinics have whitening strip kits that can be purchased in the office at used at home. A benefit to buying these from your dentist is that they have a higher concentration of whitening agents that over-the-counter products. These are only sold by dental professionals and offer faster results and longer lasting results in comparison to store bought strips.

 

IN-OFFICE TOOTH WHITENING

The best and longest lasting whitening treatments are available from a dentist who can evaluate your teeth and create a customized treatment plan to bring out your best smile. Dental professionals have the safest teeth whitening solutions that will provide you with faster and brighter results.

One in-office tooth whitening solution is hydrogen peroxide in a gel base.

The gel is applied onto the teeth surface, where it penetrates the tooth structure to dissolve discolorations and simultaneously has a bleaching effect. You may need more than one visit to achieve the desired results.

Another in-office tooth whitening solution is customized whitening trays.

This option requires two simple dental visits and allows you to complete your treatment from home. For the first appointment your dentist will take an impression of your teeth. Then, they will create whitening trays using the mold of your teeth. At your second appointment you will try on the trays to ensure they fit. After that, you will be able to take your whitening trays home along with a professional bleaching gel. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how often and how long they should be used to achieve your desired results.

Combining at-home teeth whitening solutions with professional treatments by a dentist can generate the best teeth whitening results.

So, start your 2022 with a whiter and brighter smile with our top tooth whitening solutions. If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please visit this link. Our team of excellent dental professionals will be there to assist you in your journey to a dazzling smile.

 

Taking Advantage of Your Dental Insurance Benefits Before They Expire

dental health benefits

Did you know that most dental insurance plans have a benefit deadline of December 31st?

There are many dental insurance plans available with different premium amounts and coverages, but most of them have one thing in common – they expire.

What does it really mean? This means that unused funds you have remaining will expire. Most plans do not allow residual funds to roll over into the following year.

What does my dental insurance cover?

Now is the time to review your plan and contact your dental insurance provider to determine if you have benefits available. Many insurance plans cover 100% for preventative care such as biannual checkups, X-rays and professional cleanings. Fillings and simple extractions may have about 70%-80% coverage and, major restorative care such as bridges, root canals and dentures is generally covered at 50%. Dental insurance plans vary and in order to understand your benefits and coverage, we recommend that you contact your dental insurance provider to see what your plan covers.

How to maximize your dental plan?

In order to maximize your benefits make sure to schedule routine cleanings and check-ups. Also, if you have any pain or discomfort schedule your appointment right away, don’t wait for the issue to “resolve itself”. If a problem is caught early on, you may be able to prevent having to spend money on a costly procedure and multiple visits.

The most important part to remember is to schedule your appointments well in advance. This past year has been challenging for many dental offices because of a large increase in patients who are trying to catch up on their routine cleanings. This means that appointment availability might be limited. Do not wait till mid-December to make the call – contact your dentist as soon as you can to avoid the loss of your remaining benefit allowance.

At Dental Health Associates of Madison, we believe seeing the dentist should a normal part of your health routine. Whether you need to come in for a cleaning, exam, or have treatment procedures completed, we will work with you to maximize your unused benefits. Your health is important to us and we want to make sure you get the care you deserve. Call today to get started! 608.284.5400.

 

What Type of Braces Are Right For My Family?

types of braces

We are on a mission to create a healthy smile for your child and today we have more options than ever for making that happen. Traditional metal braces are a great fit for many patients, but new alternatives like ceramic braces and Invisalign® are giving traditional metal braces some serious competition. For many patients, the choice for straight teeth comes down to cost, appearance, and the level of maintenance needed to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.

How Do Braces Work?

Orthodontic treatment, whether it is done with braces or Invisalign® (or other clear aligners), is accomplished by gently putting pressure on the teeth to move them into a new position. In the case of traditional braces, brackets are bonded to the tooth surface and a wire is then placed that puts pressure on the teeth. That wire is kept in place by small, often colorful ties. Patients need to see their orthodontist every six to eight weeks to have the wire adjusted and new ties placed.

When Should I Start Considering Braces?

Most people associate braces with the “tween” years of 12-16. But it’s important to evaluate potential needs as early as 7 years old when your child still has plenty of baby teeth. They may look perfectly straight to you, but there could be developmental or growth problems lurking behind that adorable smile. Taking an early peek at the jaw structure and mouth allows your orthodontist to identify problems right away and come up with an early treatment plan. With early evaluation and continued monitoring, your orthodontist can let you know what to expect as your child grows and his/her adult teeth begin to erupt.

If an early evaluation does reveal some potential problems, then those issues can be addressed as your child grows. Handling some orthodontic concerns while your child is still experiencing rapid growth can prevent more severe problems later in life. In some cases, early treatment will help to avoid surgery and prevent periodontal issues in the future.

An early visit to your orthodontist can improve and safeguard your child’s oral health in a variety of ways, including:

  • Eliminate or reduce the need for corrective surgery as a teen or adult
  • Shorten the length of any treatment needed as a teen or adult
  • Correct oral habits that may be impacting teeth and/or jaw
  • Optimize facial appearance later in life
  • Assist permanent, adult teeth into a better position
  • Improve speech

Metal Braces

The good news is that even traditional braces are a far cry from the old-school appliances many parents grew up with. Metal braces are far less intrusive and noticeable than they used to be. The size of individual braces, also known as brackets, has significantly decreased over time. The materials used for the wire has also changed; this results in lighter forces on the teeth making the orthodontic process more comfortable for patients. The ties that hold the wire to the brackets come in a variety of colors and for many patients choosing these colors at each visit is one of the most exciting parts of having metal braces.

The pros: Metal braces can withstand the most pressure of any orthodontic appliance. They are less likely to break than ceramic brackets; this is a definite advantage for patients who have a hard time staying away from the hard and sticky foods that should be avoided during orthodontic treatment. Metal braces may be the best option for patients who need more complex orthodontic treatment. They are also great for patients that want fun colors to match holidays, sports teams, or a special outfit!

The cons: Metal braces are the most visible treatment option which may not be desirable for patients who are self-conscious about their appearance. Metal brackets can also cause irritation of the cheeks and gums when the braces are first placed.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces and use the same wire and bracket system, however ceramic braces are less noticeable because the brackets are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic material. Like metal braces, ceramic braces also use ties to hold the wire in place, but these ties are generally clear or white to blend in with the teeth.

The pros: Ceramic braces are less visible than metal but are still strong and durable. Some patients think they are more comfortable than metal braces. For patients who might not be good candidates for clear aligners and who don’t want metal brackets, ceramic braces are a great alternative.

The cons: Ceramic braces can stain if certain foods or drinks are frequently consumed or if the braces and teeth are not properly cleaned. They are slightly less durable than metal braces so it is very important that patients are careful with what they eat.

Clear Aligners: An Alternative To Braces

Removable clear aligners like Invisalign® are more popular than ever and offer patients a more flexible and less noticeable orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist creates a customized plan for gradually straightening your teeth using a set of clear aligner trays to shift the teeth into the desired position. Aligners need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day to be effective, and many patients appreciate the chance to remove their appliances while eating and cleaning their teeth. Every one to two weeks, patients switch to a new aligner tray throughout the process.

A note of caution – there has been an influx of “At Home” options for clear aligners. These are typically not under supervision of an orthodontist and are not ideal for a complete orthodontic plan. We recommend working directly with an orthodontist for a safe and effective solution.

The pros: Invisalign® is becoming an increasingly popular choice for both teens and adults. Aligners are clear and much less visible than braces so they can be a great choice for patients who might be self-conscious about metal braces. One of the main benefits of aligners is that they are removable. This makes things like flossing, brushing, and eating much easier. Additionally, the food restrictions that many patients face with traditional braces (i.e. overly hard or chewy food), do not apply when using aligners. Many patients also report that the plastic used for removable aligners is less irritating to the cheeks than braces. Another advantage of clear aligners is that orthodontic office visits are less frequent with Invisalign® which saves patients time.

The cons: Aligners only work when they are worn and thus may not be the best option for patients who are not ready to take responsibility for their treatment. Aligners must be taken out to eat and immediately placed back in the mouth after eating. Patients who frequently lose things or are forgetful may want to consider an alternative form of orthodontic treatment.

Choosing The Right Braces: Your Orthodontist Can Help

There are a variety of great orthodontic treatment options. Your orthodontist is an important partner in helping you make the best decisions based on all of the considerations. With years of expertise and a caring approach, Dental Health Associates will help you choose the best type of orthodontic treatment for you or your child.

Request a Free Orthodontics Consultation