FillingGaps Team
All Dental Topics,Broken tooth
Broken tooth
What options are there to fix my broken tooth?
There are various options to restore a broken tooth. If the tooth is symptom free or mildly cold sensitive then the tooth can be restored by one of 3 options:
Each option has advantages and disadvantages, follow the link of each option for more information. If the broken tooth is causing toothache or has an abscess associated with it then the tooth will first require a root canal before 1 of the 3 options can be used to restore the tooth. If the tooth is too badly broken your dentist may recommend tooth removal and discuss options to replace the missing tooth.
The cost of fixing a broken tooth varies depending on the option selected. A large tooth coloured filling can range from $200 – $500 depending on whether reinforcing materials or aesthetic tints are used. A large amalgam filling can range from $200 to $300 and a lab made crown can range from $1000 – $1800.
Broken tooth cusp adjacent to a large amalgam filling.
Broken tooth cusp and large old amalgam filling replaced by a tooth-coloured composite filling.
To find a dentist who can assess your broken tooth visit www.fillinggaps.co.nz.
Toothache
What causes toothache?
Dental Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage. Dental pain results from stimulus to the tooth’s pulp chamber which houses the tooth’s nerve fibres. The degree and type of the stimulus will depend on the severity of pain. Examples of pain stimuli:
- Dentine exposure causing sensitivity to cold
- Dental caries
- Trauma
What are toothache symptoms and signs?
Pain in a tooth or jaw is a common complaint, particularly when pain worsens with cold, hot and pressure stimuli. Below are common symptoms:
Fast short pain from hot or cold stimuli – This is often not serious if treated early and is due to dental caries, a loose filling or dentine exposure. A sensitive toothpaste can be applied to the exposed dentine to seal the dentinal tubules. However a loose filling or dental caries needs to be treated by a dentist.
Fast short pain from hot or cold stimuli after dental treatment – Dental work on a tooth can cause internal inflammation. Allow 2 – 4 weeks for the tooth to settle, if the dental pain does not resolve then consult your dentist.
Fast short pain when biting – This dental pain can be caused by a loose filling, dental caries or a crack in the tooth. This is often easily repaired by a dentist sealing the tooth with a filling.
Lingering pain from hot or cold stimuli lasting more than 30 seconds – This is often due to the pulp tissue of the tooth being irreversibly damaged from dental caries, a deep crack or trauma. A definitive diagnosis by a dentist is required. Often the tooth will require a root canal or tooth removal.
Constant and severe pain, very tender to pressure, possibility of gum swelling – This generally indicates the tooth has progressed from irreversible pulp tissue damage to an abscess forming around the roots of the tooth causing infection to the surrounding tissues and bone. The tooth will require a root canal or tooth removal. If the tooth is left untreated there is risk of facial swelling and dangerous complications.
Dull ache to the muscles of the face – This dental pain can be due to straining of the facial muscles. Inflammed muscles in this area can result from bruxism (grinding of the teeth) or clenching of the teeth. This can be caused by stress. Your dentist may recommend a bite-splint for you to wear at night.
Ache to the upper jaw – Sinusitis may cause the teeth to ache. Some people have a low lying maxillary sinus (upper jaw air cavity) which is in close approximation to their upper teeth. An infected low lying sinus can cause toothache symptoms. If sinusitis is the cause your dentist may prescribe antibiotics.
How do I relieve dental pain?
There are various short term and long-term options to relieve dental pain:
- Pain medication (Analgesia) can be used to provide insensitivity to pain
- Home remedies
- Sensitive toothpastes if the cause of tooth pain is dentine exposure
- Visit a dentist or endodontist for a definitive treatment if the tooth pulp is inflammed or infected
- A bite-splint (night mouthguard) if the jaw pain is muscular in origin
-
Antibiotics if the dental pain is due to sinusitis
To find a dentist or endodontist near you visit www.fillinggaps.co.nz
Oil Pulling benefits
Can oil pulling protect and whiten my teeth?
Oil pulling is a hot topic in dentistry at the moment, with claims made in news reports and on social media that the practice can do everything from whiten teeth to protect against heart disease. But what is oil pulling? And can it really deliver the benefits claimed by its proponents?
Oil pulling is an ancient folk practice traditionally found in India and Southern Asia dating back centuries to traditional Indian remedies. Edible oil (e.g. coconut, sunflower, olive, sesame) is swished around the mouth for anywhere from 1 – 5 minutes to 20 minutes or more.
Oil pulling adherents claim that it whitens teeth, reduces bacteria in the mouth, strengthens the gums and jaw, prevents bad breath, improves the skin, and clears the sinuses. There are even claims that the practice can protect against more serious conditions such as heart disease and Alzheimers.
Unfortunately there are insufficient peer-reviewed scientific studies to show whether or not oil pulling can improve oral health and well-being. Existing studies are unreliable due to factors such as small sample size, the absence of negative controls and a lack of demographic information.
While it is unlikely that oil pulling does any harm – provided you don’t swallow the oil and you can tolerate the bad taste! – there is no solid evidence to show that it reduces incidence of dental caries, whitens teeth or improves oral health.
If you are concerned about your teeth, we recommend the scientifically proven way to help prevent cavities and to keep teeth and gums healthy: twice-daily tooth-brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing. Please see our prevention post for scientifically proven procedures on how to look after your teeth.
To find a dental professional near you please visit www.fillinggaps.co.nz.
All Dental Topics,Tooth removal
Tooth removal
Why does a tooth need to be removed?
Tooth removal is generally required when bacteria have entered the root canal system and a root canal is not advised or financially not viable. Bacteria can enter the root canal system via a crack, a deep cavity, and periodontal disease. When a root canal is infected, there is often associated toothache.
There are other reasons for tooth removal such as for creating space in orthodontics, and when wisdom teeth are impacted.
Why do some wisdom teeth require tooth removal?
Wisdom tooth removal is due to a lack of jaw space for the wisdom teeth to erupt correctly into position. With little jaw space a wisdom tooth can become “impacted” where it is partially through the gum or completely hidden under the gum. Impacted wisdom teeth are often at 45 and 90 degree angles and cause localised gum infections (pericorinitis).
Impacted wisdom teeth are often surgically removed by a general dentist or by an oral or maxillofacial surgeon (specialist). If you have a medical insurance policy covering impacted wisdom teeth and your wisdom teeth are impacted then your dentist will refer you to an oral or maxillofacial surgeon.
Left untreated, some of the issues associated with impacted wisdom teeth include:
- Infections under the overlying gum (pericorinitis)
- Decay within the wisdom tooth
- Decay in the adjacent tooth
- Pain
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Limited mouth opening (trismus)
- Pathology formation in the jaw bone
What is the tooth removal process?
Length of Treatment: 10 min – 45min for single tooth removal. 30minutes – 1.5 hours for up to 4 wisdom teeth. For multiple teeth requiring extraction, appointments can be split across a couple visits.
Below is the tooth removal treatment approach:
- Sedation (IV or orally) if you are particularly anxious
- Local anesthetic (injection) to numb the tooth
- The dentist will carefully apply pressure to extract the tooth
- If the tooth will not loosen with pressure alone then a surgical procedure allows a gutter of bone to be removed around the tooth or the tooth is sectioned.
- The socket is debrided, rinsed and packed
- If required, stitches will be applied to assist the healing process
- If non-dissolveable stitches are used, the patient will need to return for a follow-up visit 1 week later
- Post-treatment instructions will be given to the patient
What are the post treatment instructions for a tooth removal?
After a tooth removal, the goal for fast healing is to maintain a blood clot in the tooth socket. To avoid blood clot disruption:
- On the day of surgery avoid excessive exercise, vigorous rinsing, and hot liquids
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene and be careful when cleaning near the socket.
- If there is excessive bleeding, bite down on a wet tea bag for 30 minutes. Should bleeding not stop after pressure application, contact your dentist. Saliva can dilute the blood and make the bleeding appear worse than it is.
- Medicating with analgesics (pain killers) is very important before the numbness wears off. See the pain relief post for more detailed information.
- Avoid smoking (increases risk of a dry socket) and alcohol.
- Antibiotics may be prescribed if the tooth removal was difficult or the tooth was very infected.
- 24 hours after the procedure commence warm salty warm water rinses.
- Contact you dentist or specialist should you experience a bad taste and ache after 72 hours. This is likely the result of a dry socket.
- Contact you dentist or specialist if you have sutures and they have not dissolved after 7 -10 days.
All Dental Topics,Dental veneers,Tooth alignment
Dental Veneers
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are a conservative dental procedure used to improve the appearance of front teeth. Dental veneers are very thin shells of either composite resin filling material, or the more durable ceramic (porcelain), which are bonded to the prepared teeth. The YouTube video demonstrates ceramic (porcelain) veneers.
Dental veneers have the advantage of requiring less tooth removal compared with full dental crowns. Dental veneers are used to improve tooth colour or shape, hide discolourations, closing small spaces, or straightening out minor crowding.
Dental veneers are often used when whitening treatment does not adequately mask deep staining (eg. discolouration of teeth due to exposure to the antibiotic tetracycline- in utero or in infancy), older discoloured fillings or root canals.
If tooth discolouration is not an issue then metal braces, ceramic braces or invisalign are other more conservative options for tooth straightening.
How long do dental veneers last?
There are many variables that will influence not only how good your veneers look, but how long they will last and how long they will remain aesthetic. Composite veneers and porcelain veneers vary in longevity:
Composite veneer
A composite veneer will look good for 5-7 years. A composite veneer looks best when it is initially done and will deteriorate a little over time depending on your lifestyle and habits. During this time it may need re-polishing or touching up more frequently since composite is more prone to picking up staining molecules compared with porcelain veneers. However, if you do have a problem (maybe a chip), it is easier to repair and less damaging to your natural tooth
Porcelain veneer
Porcelain Veneers tend to last longer and keep their appearance better. Problems can sometimes occur with veneers at approximately 10 years, although most tend to last longer. Problems with porcelain veneers arise from porcelain chipping, porcelain veneer de-bonding, veneer margin staining.
How Much does a Dental Veneer Cost?
In New Zealand: The cost of a porcelain veneer is on average $1165 per tooth.
The cost of a composite veneer would be $200-$900 per tooth.
In Australia the cost of porcelain veneers is on average $1087 per tooth. In the United states the cost of dental veneers is higher and can range anywhere from $1000-$3000 per tooth.
Dental veneers are a cosmetic procedure which can improve self-esteem however the initial cost and maintenance cost needs to be carefully considered.
To find a New Zealand dentist or prosthodontist near you who provides root canals please visitwww.fillinggaps.co.nz
All Dental Topics,Dental toothache,Gum problems,Periodontist
Periodontal disease
What are periodontal diseases?
Periodontal (gum) diseases are chronic infections of the structures which surround and support the teeth. Periodontal disease begins with an accumulation of dental plaque (sticky, colourless film of bacteria that forms on teeth).
The early stage of the disease is called gingivitis and the signs of this disease can be subtle. Signs include swelling, redness and bleeding of the gums.
The treatment for gingivitis is usually a thorough cleaning of the teeth by a dentist, dental hygienist or periodontist. If left untreated, gingivitis can often progress to periodontitis. This is a more severe form of the disease in which bacteria and the body’s own immune system attack the ligaments and bone that hold teeth in place. If periodontitis is not treated, it will result in bone loss, tooth mobility and the eventual loss of teeth. There is also evidence that periodontal disease can affect your general health.
Are there risk factors for periodontal disease?
- genetics,
- smoking,
- diabetes
- hormonal changes associated with puberty or pregnancy.
How is periodontal disease treated?
The goal of treatment is to control the gum infection. The types of treatment will vary, depending on the extent of the periodontal disease. For example early gum disease can be treated by a deep clean while advanced gum disease may require additional gum surgery. Any type of treatment requires excellent daily care at home changing certain behaviours, such as quitting smoking.
What is deep cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)?
The dentist, dental hygienist or periodontist removes the plaque through a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing. Scaling means scraping off the tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing gets rid of rough spots on the tooth root where the bacteria hide, and helps remove bacteria that contribute to the periodontal disease. In some cases a laser may be used to remove plaque and tartar which can result in less bleeding, swelling, and discomfort compared to traditional deep cleaning methods.
To find a New Zealand dentist/hygienist/periodontist near you who treats periodontal disease please visit www.fillinggaps.co.nz
All Dental Topics,Invisalign,Tooth alignment
Invisalign
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign treatment is the use of clear plastic trays to move and straighten teeth.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses advanced technology to show the complete treatment process from the initial position to the final planned position from which a number of custom-made aligners (trays) are manufactured. Each tray is used for 2 weeks and moves individual teeth.
What material are the aligners made of?
Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade non-toxic plastic that is almost invisible when placed over your teeth.
What is the duration of treatment?
The duration of treatment depends on each individual patient’s orthodontic issues. Invisalign treatment can vary from between six months to two years with an average treatment taking around 11 to 15 months.
How does Invisalign move teeth?
An Invisalign aligner moves teeth through the placement of controlled forces on the teeth like metal braces and ceramic braces which use brackets and arch wires . The main difference is that Invisalign not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force applied. With each aligner, only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular aligner. Thus force can be applied efficiently.
What can invisalign correct?
- Overcrowding of your teeth due to lack of space
- Teeth spacing/gaps between your teeth
- Protruding teeth/teeth are positioned to far forward relative to your lip
- Non-central alignment of your front teeth relative to your nose (midline shift); or
- Bite misalignment/overbite/bite correction
- However Invisalign cannot treat all orthodontic cases and sometimes conventional braces are needed to achieve the best result.
Is there a price reduction if I only require the upper/lower aligner?
The main part of the fee for Invisalign is based upon the consultations needed and the 3-D modelling cost. If your treatment requires one arch or two arches (i.e. treatment to your upper and lower teeth) the price will be almost the same.
What is the cost of Invisalign in New Zealand?
Invisalign is a costly process due to the huge lab fee Invisalign charges dentists and orthodontists. As there is no way of lowering this lab fee most invisalign fees range from $7000 to $10000. On the odd occasion a dentist/orthodontist may be able to off a price less than the average range if very little tooth movement is required and they use the Invisalign Lite system which has a lower lab fee as there are less trays made. When investigating the Invisalign cost check whether the price includes the initial records and the final retainers.
What can I eat while in treatment?
Invisalign is different to traditional orthodontics, you can usually eat whatever you want while in treatment because you remove your plastic trays to eat and drink. There is no need to change what foods you eat.
It is recommended that you brush your teeth after each meal and prior to reinserting your aligners to maintain proper hygiene.
Can I drink with aligners on?
You should remove your aligners to drink anything else except water. Leaving aligners on while drinking anything other than water may stain the aligners; risk tooth decay if there is sugary fluid consumption; and if you are drinking hot water, this may distort the aligners.
Will smoking discolour the aligners?
Yes
Can I have chewing gum while wearing aligners?
Better not too, gum will stick to the aligners. Dentists recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks.
What’s the best way cleansing process for my aligners?
The recommended way to clean your aligners is by gently brushing and rinsing them in warm water. You can also soak them in white vinegar diluted with water if they are starting to smell.
How often must I wear my aligners?
Your aligners should be worn 22 hours a day. The only time the aligners should be removed is when eating, brushing and flossing.
What is the invisalign process?
Stage 1: Consultation, impressions, photos, xrays
A consultation to discuss your alignment requirements and any other relevant treatment issues. In this session the dentist/orthodontist will discuss with you your treatment options including the suitability of using the Invisalign clear braces.
Once the dentist/orthodontist has determined that Invisalign will suit your dental needs, they will create a full treatment plan, so that you understand each stage of the process.
Once you are happy with the plan, they will progress with taking some initial impressions of your top and bottom teeth including some x-rays and photographs. This is important to ensure they completely understand everything relating to your teeth and their positioning. This information is required for developing your set of clear customised trays.
Stage 2: Viewing of predicted results
Approximately one month after stage 1 they will book an appointment to view a virtual digital video of how your teeth and smile will progress over the treatment period.
The digital video will allow you to view the individual tooth movement as you progress through the treatment. Once you are happy with the planned treatment most dentists/orthodontists will require a deposit and for you to sign the standard Invisalign consent form.
Stage 3: Your treatment starts
At this stage, they arrange for your customised aligners to be manufactured. This is completed in the USA.
When they receive your box of aligners, they arrange an appointment to fit your trays. If the treatment plan dictates the dental professional will bond a small tooth coloured fitting to your teeth to further support the realignment process. Approximately every six weeks you return and are fitted with your next progressive aligner. Once your initial aligner is fitted, it’s essential each aligner is worn for at least 22 hours a day. This is vital to the success of the Invisalign treatment.
During the treatment period, the dental professional may recontour your teeth to improve their shape and gain spacing if required.
Stage 4: End of treatment
When the full set of Invisalign aligners have been worn, the dental professional will assess whether any “tweaks” are required. In most cases the predicted results will closely mirror your new straightened smile. However, if they feel further work is required they will discuss this with you, and look at ordering a few more plastic aligners for refinement. Refinement is part of the initial cost.
The final step is manufacturing a retainer for you to wear (often just a night-time retainer) to ensure you retain your straight smile and minimise relapse.
To find a New Zealand Dentist or Orthodontist who provides Invisalign near you, visit www.fillinggaps.co.nz.
All Dental Topics,Dental toothache,Endodontist
Root canal
What is a root canal?
Tooth anatomy is comprised of 3 layers (think of an onion), the outer layer is enamel, next layer in is dentine and the core of the tooth is a pulp chamber (root canal). A root canal (endodontic) procedure involves taking out the nerve and blood vessels of the root canal, cleaning and shaping the canal space and then filling it up to prevent bacteria from getting back into the root system.
The purpose of this procedure is to maintain a tooth in the mouth (albeit without a living nerve). In a fully developed tooth, the tooth can survive without the pulp because the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it.
Why would I need a root canal?
- Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. There are a variety of causes:
- deep decay,
- repeated dental procedures on the tooth,
- faulty fillings or crowns,
- crack in the tooth.
- trauma
If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess which can also cause facial swelling.
Who can perform a root canal procedure?
A root canal procedure can be completed by a New Zealand registered General Dentist or Endodontist (root canal specialist).
What is the root canal procedure?
Initial treatment is to remove the source of infection of the pulp and to determine if there is enough remaining tooth structure. If little tooth structure remains tooth removal may be a better long term option. If a fracture of the tooth has reached the pulp, or infection is associated with gum disease, it could be more difficult and sometimes impossible to save the tooth.
The general sequence of a root canal procedure is as follows:
Step 1
Local anesthetic (generally two injections) is administered to numb the tooth that is to be treated. If the pulp in a tooth is very inflamed (“hot tooth”), and as a result very painful, it may take a while to get it numb and require a few more injections. Your dentist/endodontist will not start the treatment until the tooth is adequately anesthetized.
Step 2
A dental dam (rubber sheet) is put in place. This is used to isolate the infected tooth from the rest of mouth to aid root canal treatment. The tooth undergoing treatment protrudes through a hole punched in the dam, isolating it from the rest of the mouth. The rubber dam seals the tooth preventing root canal irrigant and instruments entering the oral cavity. The rubber dam also allows the root canal treatment to be carried out in a sterile environment free from contamination by bacteria. Some dentists place a dental dam on before drilling the tooth while others will place the dental dam only after they have gained access to the root canal. Some dentists do the latter as it is easier to view the orientation of the tooth.
Step 3
A small access hole is drilled through the biting surface (occlusal surface) of an affected back tooth or from behind a front tooth, allowing access to the pulp chamber and root canals for treatment.
Step 4
The infected pulp tissue is removed from the tooth with hand files and rotary instruments used to clean out the root canals and pulp chamber. This step is not painful; as the tooth and surrounding tissues are numb. Once the pulp, along with the nerves contained in it, is removed, the tooth itself can no longer feel pain.
Step 5
The canals are disinfected with antiseptic and antibacterial solutions.
Step 6
The canals are then shaped with tiny flexible hand and rotary instruments to further clean the canals as well as allow them to receive root canal fillings and sealers. The canals are washed and cleaned after each instrumentation to remove root canal debris lodged in lateral canals.
Step 7
A temporary dressing (antibacterial) material is placed down the cleaned and shaped root canals followed by a temporary filling to seal the tooth. The tooth is then left 2-4 weeks.
Step 8
Step 1, 2, 3 is repeated. The temporary dressing is removed. Root canal fillings are selected that will fit exactly into the freshly prepared canals. Usually a rubber-like material called gutta-percha is used to fill the canal space. It is a thermoplastic material (“thermo” – heat; “plastic” – to shape), which generally is heated and then compressed into and against the walls of the root canals to seal them. Together with adhesive cement called a sealer, the gutta-percha fills the prepared canal space. Sealing the canals is very important to prevent them from becoming reinfected with bacteria.
Step 9
A permanent filling material will then be placed to seal the access hole that was made to treat the canals, and the dental dam is removed. If the tooth lacks sufficient structure to hold a restoration (filling) in place, the dentist or endodontist may place a post (either metal or a very strong plastic) in one of the canals inside the tooth to help retain it.
After the procedure, it is normal to have some minor discomfort after treatment including slight soreness that can usually be managed with over-the-counter (paracetamol, ibuprofen) medications or prescription (codeine-type) drugs, or a combination of the two.
Step 10
Your tooth will most often need a permanent restoration (a large filling or onlay or a crown) to replace the lost tooth structure, provide a complete seal to the top of the tooth, and to strengthen the tooth. If you have been treated by an endodontist, the endodontist will send you back to your general dentist to complete this step. This step is of particular importance since many studies show that root canalled teeth are more fragile than untouched teeth therefore at greater risk of fracturing or cracking.
How much does a root canal cost?
The cost of root canals varies between dentists and endodontists and between teeth treated (incisors, canines, premolars, molars). A molar can have more than 3 root canals, a premolar and incisor up to 2 canals. The more canals to treat the longer the procedure. Endodontists tend to charge more for their service as they have completed 3 years additional post graduate training and tend to own more expensive equipment such as a microscope and 3D Xray.
Below is a general idea of New Zealand fees:
Root filling – single root (excluding restoration) $634
Root filling – Molar (3 roots) (excluding restoration) $1,018
Root filling – Molar (3 roots) by endodontist specialist $1,800
Cast Post and Core $387
Post with Direct Core $293
Fillings – the majority of dentists charge different fees depending on the type of filling material and the number of surfaces the filling will span (4 surfaces is a very large filling, 1 surface is the smallest filling and 2 surfaces is the most common filling placed):
Amalgam filling, one surface $143
Amalgam filling, two surfaces $189
Amalgam filling including pins $263
Composite – one surface $165
Composite – two surface $219
Composite – multisurfaced $282
Composite crown $378
Glass ionomer – one surface $139
All Ceramic crown $1,338
Porcelain Fused to Metal crown $1,298
To find a New Zealand dentist or endodontist near you who provides root canals please visit www.fillinggaps.co.nz
All Dental Topics,Implant,Missing tooth
Dental Implant
What is involved in the placement of my dental implant?
Dental implant treatment is often performed with a team. The team consists of a restorative dentist who will ultimately fabricate the prosthesis or teeth that are to be replaced; and an experienced surgeon who will place the dental implants in the jaw bone. Careful evaluation of the patient and meticulous planning is essential in providing predictable and satisfactory results.
Osseointegrated (bone fusing) Dental Implants are internationally accepted as one of the best means by which lost or missing teeth are replaced for the long term when they are provided by experienced clinicians in this special field. They are surgically placed in the jaws and left for a period of at least four to six months to heal or “osseointegrate”, after which time they are exposed at a second stage and progressively loaded with the final crown and bridgework as with conventional treatment.
The treatment consists of 3 phases.
The first phase of treatment is the placement of the implant (the root shaped, titanium screw that is commonly referred to as the ‘fixture’) by the surgical specialist. The second phase of the implant treatment is performed after an appropriate period of healing. Bone heals slowly. A period of approximately 3-6 months is required for the process of osseointegration to be complete.
The second phase of treatment consists of the placement of abutments or small metal posts to the implanted fixtures. This may require a second surgical procedure depending if removal of gum over the implant is required.
The third phase of treatment consists of the restorative phase. In this phase an impression of the abutment is taken and the new replacement teeth are fabricated and placed on the implants and abutments. These can be a crown, bridge, denture (fixed or removeable).
Dental implant bridge
What is the cost of a dental implant in New Zealand?
The cost of a dental implant is generally divided into 2 fees. First the surgical cost of placing the implant and second the restorative cost of manufacturing a crown (superstructure) to fit onto the implant. An approximate idea of Implant fees:
Implant (surgical component) $2,796 – $3300
Implant, single tooth – superstructure $2,504 – $3500
The options utilizing dental implants are the best possible means of restoring your teeth as the end result will offer the best cosmetics together with function as natural teeth. Also of value is that the dental implants stress the bony tissue in function and can reduce and sometimes stop the bone resorption process which causes the shrinkage of the jaw bone.
What are the risks of dental implants?
Whenever implants or surgery is performed there is always a risk of sensory change in the region of surgery and paraesthesia which is a temporary or permanent numbness in the soft tissues of the region can occur. Normality generally will return within a few days but in difficult cases maybe months. Permanent complications are rare and the risk is considered to be about 1%.
What is bone grafting?
When bone defects exist in potential dental implant sites they must be corrected otherwise the success and longevity of the dental implant will be compromised. Bone grafting is the process of correcting bone defects and deficiencies in the maxilla (upper jaw) and mandible (lower jaw) utilizing various types of grafting materials which may be autogenous, allograft, xenograft, alloplast and or a combination of these. Autogenous bone is derived from the patients own bone reserves, either from the hip or other intra-oral sites (jaws), and sometimes from the tibia. Allograft is bone from another of the same species that has undergone sterilisation processes at standards recommended by the American Association of Tissue Banks for safe use. Xenograft used here has antigenic properties removed, some by calcination at extremely high temperatures that leave only the mineral matrix for use. Alloplast is an artificial bone substitute that can be incorporated into the patients bone tissues and often has mineral structures similar to human bone. As with all surgery complications can arise such as infection, slow healing and loss of graft but these are minimised and if they occur can be medically controlled and corrected by good surgical technique.
Patients undergoing this special treatment do not suffer from severe after pain, patients can expect soft tissue bruising, and swelling in the affected area of surgery, and generally a mild discomfort from low level pain for a few days following surgery.
What is the treatment time?
Only estimated times are given because of the complexity of this type of rehabilitation, it is not possible to give definitive timetables as to completion of treatments. However as a guide, implant treatment without bone graft techniques can be completed between 2 and 6 months.
Can dental implants fail?
Dental implant treatment has been shown to have a high success rate over a 30 year period, but due to the complex nature of implant therapy, bone structures and individual variations in physiology and anatomy, no guarantees can be made for the treatment offered. However, if implants fail to “osseointegrate”, then they can be removed easily and in most cases the bone can be regenerated so that a new implant can be placed again. A lot of the time the surgeon will not charge for this. Structural failures of the crown or bridgework is rare and often replaced free of cost should this occur within 12 months of completion. Guarantees will need to be discussed with your surgeon and or dentist.
It is documented that regular habits of smoking and heavy intake of alcohol does impair general bone health and in particular are highly correlated with failures and or complications in implant treatment. High standards of personal and professional oral hygiene is also essential to ensure they are successful for the long term. Regular hygienist visits are required to help prevent gum inflammation and bone loss around the implant.
To find a dentist or specialist near you who provides dental implants please visit www.fillinggaps.co.nz
Dental Therapist
What is a dental therapist?
A Dental therapist provides oral health assessment, treatment, management and prevention services for children and adolescents up to age 18. Disease prevention and oral health promotion and maintenance are core activities. Dental therapists and dentists have a consultative working relationship. Dental therapists have undertaken a qualification such as:
-
Bachelor of Oral Health, University of Otago
-
Bachelor of Health Science in Oral Health, Auckland University of Technology
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Certificate in Dental Therapy or Certificate in Dental Nursing Diploma in Dental Therapy
-
Bachelor of Health Science (Endorsement in Dental Therapy), University of Otago
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Undergraduate dental therapy degree or diploma from the Australian Dental
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Council or Dental Board of Australia accredited educational programme
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Undergraduate dental therapy degree or diploma
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Undergraduate dental degree; and a pass in the Dental Council Dental Therapy Registration Examination.
What do dental therapists do?
Dental therapists may do some or all of the following:
- examine the oral condition of the mouth and teeth to create a treatment plan
- take X-rays of the oral cavity
- routine dental treatment and prevention work, such as filling cavities, applying prevention coatings to teeth
- extract primary (baby) teeth with a local anaesthetic
- advise parents on how to keep their children’s teeth and gums clean and prevent oral diseases
- promote oral health and hygiene in the community
- refer people who require specialist dental treatment to a dentist or dental specialist and discuss their treatment with them
What is a dental therapist’s salary?
A dental therapist is either employed by a district health board or by private dental practice.
Pay for dental therapists varies depending on experience.
DHB dental therapists:
New graduates usually earn between $41,000 and $46,000 a year.
Dental therapists with two to four years’ experience usually earn between $47,000 and $62,000.
Those with more than five years’ experience, and extra responsibilities, usually earn between $58,000 and $95,000.
Private practice dental therapists:
Pay for dental therapists in private practice varies depending on experience, and where they work. They usually work on contract, and may earn between $30 and $60 an hour.
To find a dental practice that works with a dental therapist visit www.fillinggaps.co.nz.
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