Prosthodontists are specialists who have extensive training in restoring and replacing teeth. They have much experience with the latest cosmetic, implant and reconstructive procedures. Prosthodontists can offer unique solutions to your dental problems.
Can I still see my regular dentist for cleanings and exams?
Certainly! You are encouraged to continue your routine dental care with your regular dentist. But often patients come to the practice without a regular dentist and they are quite comfortable receiving cleanings by the hygienist in the office. These patients are typically seen every three to six months by the hygienist and Dr. Wolf.
Is bleaching (tooth whitening) safe? Yes. Studies have shown that the bleaching process does not cause long lasting harm to the tooth. Occasionally, tooth sensitivity occurs in a small percentage of patients but this disappears when bleaching is discontinued.
How long does Bleaching Last? Bleaching can last for years. However, some patients like to "touch up" occasionally with additional bleach to keep their teeth very white.
Do the "over the counter" bleaching products work? Usually not too well. Many patients have told the office of their unsuccessful attempts at using these products. Bleaching that is controlled by a dentist is safe and predictably gets your teeth whiter and brighter.
What is the difference between veneers and bonding? Veneers are made of porcelain and tend to last much longer than bonding, which is made of a very strong plastic. Veneers can last ten to fifteen years (or more!) while bonding may last in the three to eight year range. Veneers are fabricated in a dental lab and take multiple visits while bonding is done directly in the mouth and takes one visit. The fee for veneers is higher than bonding. Whether to use one over the other is always a case by case decision.
Why should I consider replacing my silver fillings with porcelain fillings? Silver fillings often crack and break down at the edges as they age. When this occurs replacement is necessary. Porcelain fillings (inlays and onlays) are fabricated in a dental lab and fit very precisely. They not only bond to the tooth internally thus making it stronger, but also look tooth colored and very natural. These porcelain restorations can last ten or more years.
Are dental implants safe? Yes. Dental implants are made from commercially pure titanium (the same type that has been used for years in hip replacements) and are quite compatible with the human body.
Can dental implants fail? Yes, but only a small percentage actually do. Dental implants have around 98% success rate which is excellent. It is important that the dentist who performs the implant surgery and fabricates the implant restoration be trained extensively and possess much experience with dental implants. Improper placement technique can result in implants failing.
Why should I consider using dental implants? Dental implants are an excellent choice for replacing missing teeth. They allow for a permanent anchorage of a crown or bridge to the implant(s), thus filling in the space where the teeth were missing. Partial dentures can be replaced by using implants and loose dentures can be secured by anchoring them to dental implants.
How do I know whether my teeth need reconstructing? A reconstruction is necessary when some or all of the teeth are broken down or defective. The bite may be adversely affected and your smile or appearance of individual teeth may be unattractive. Typically, existing crowns, bridges, dentures and large fillings are falling apart or are not functioning properly.
What is involved with a reconstruction? First, the problems must be assessed and diagnosed. Then a plan is formulated to correct all of the problems. Crowns, bridgework and implants may be involved and the emphasis is always to restore the patient to a proper level of function and also to create an attractive smile.
