Locus Dental Care

Ashok Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

What is the meaning of orthodontics? It is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on prevention as well as treatment of misalignment of teeth and facial irregularities/abnormalities. Who are orthodontists?The dentist who specializes in the process of orthodontics is called orthodontists. They are specially qualified and do extensive 3 year of specialized study in orthodontic program Who are the candidates of orthodontic treatment? One who has got misaligned teeth, crowded teeth, buck teeth, overlapping of teeth and gap between the teeth are the candidates of orthodontic treatment.What does the orthodontist do? Normally the irregularity of the teeth is corrected by putting braces. What steps are followed in orthodontic treatment? Firstly a record is made before the treatment starts, which serves as a tool for the orthodontist. This includes medical history, plaster models of the teeth are studied, clinical examination, photos of teeth as well as x-rays of head and mouth. Second step is to plan the treatment. This varies acc. to individual patients requirement. Then appliances which are to be used are put in place, this is an active phase. These appliances are periodically adjusted just to make sure that the teeth are moving in right direction. Third is the retention phase in which the patient is required to wear a retainer so that teeth retain their new place/position. What are the advantages of orthodontics?Orthodontics can change the teeth as well as the whole facial structure. BY aligning teeth one gets the correct functioning of the jaw and a n attractive smile. Teeth can be cleaned easily and the chances of gum diseases are reduced moreover orthodontic treatment enhances the self confidence of an individual. Why teeth become irregular?There is misalignment of teeth because of thumb sucking, small jaw, incompetent lips, bad tongue and lip habits, nail biting, injury etc.

What is the meaning of maxillofacial? Maxillofacial means jaws and face, which combines with mouth becomes the domain/area of specialization of oral and maxillofacial surgeon.What is oral treatment/surgery? This is a branch of dentistry which deals in diagnosing and surgically treating injuries, diseases, defects of jaws, mouth, face etc. This also includes dental implants, removing decayed teeth, biopsy and taking of cysts as well as tumors of jaw and mouth, treating facial trauma and jaw reconstruction.What treatment/procedures are followed by oral and maxillofacial surgeon? Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform the following procedures/treatments: Placement of dental implants which replaces single/several teeth as well as entire teeth in the mouth. Dental implants are very comfortable and last for a long time than the conventional dentures.Reconstructive surgery which addresses injuries in lower, upper jaws of the soft and hard tissues which are the result of trauma, accident, long time of wearing dentures, tumor surgery.Treatment of maxillofacial infections. Such infections are diagnosed and then treated as they are very dangerous and can cause severe emergencies if not treated properly, timely and effectively.Treating injuries to face, teeth, mouth, jaws caused because of trauma. Surgeons are expert to treat trauma which also includes upper and lower fractures of the jaws and orbit.Surgeries to correct facial and oral deformities due to difference in the skeletal growth between lower and upper jaws, congenital disorders(such as palate, cleft lip) which is the result of improper growth of oral nasal cavity at the time of fetal development.Surgeons are capable of reconstructing facial structure, hence can perform facial cosmetic procedures in their office. Does the treatment require x-rays? X-rays are always taken before the treatment begins as it gives a clear picture of the disorder in the teeth or the bones.

What are dental veneers? Veneers are laminates made up of ceramic, porcelain, composite bonding materials. They ate very thin like a wafer and are bonded over the visible portion of the teeth to enhance the appearance. Dentist use it to correct misaligned teeth, discolored teeth and worn out enamel. Veneers are suitable for people who like to improve aesthetics of teeth.What are the advantages of veneers? Veneers last for a long time and moreover they require very little tooth preparation. They look very natural and healthy.How long can veneers last? Dental veneers can last for say 10 to 15 years (or even more), after that they need replacement. Veneers need proper care and maintenance, only then they will continue to give an attractive smile for years.What kind of tooth preparation is involved? For a strong bond between the teeth and the veneer the enamel has to be reduced. The dentist reduces the enamel and takes the impression of the teeth, and then it is sent to the lab where the veneer is made. The thickness of the veneer is same as the amount of veneer reduced. Hence the veneer looks very natural, as its color is made identical to the surrounding teeth.Is the process of attaching veneer painful? Patient does not experience any pain, but there is some amount of discomfort when the enamel is reduced .The dentist gives an anesthesia before filing and reshaping the teeth, but there is no pain when the veneer is attached. Sensitivity to cold/ hot can be felt after the veneer is fitted.What are the alternatives to veneers? Dental veneers are used to enhance the appearance of an individual, it is the part of cosmetic dentistry .In case of repairing of teeth, straightening of teeth veneers are not suitable and dental crowns is the best choice .An alternative to dental veneers is LUNINEERS .They are removable and provides artificial coating to the teeth.

What is a smile makeover? Smile makeover is a part of cosmetic dentistry and varies from person to person. Smile makeover consists of many individual procedures such as teeth whitening, straightening of teeth, repairing as well as replacement of teeth, dental bonding, and porcelain veneers etc. This makeover is quite often called extreme makeover as the results are so dramatic.Who are the candidates? People who are extremely conscious of their appearance go for such makeovers.How important is smile makeover for people? It is generally seen that more than 75 % of the people avoid smiling when a photo is being clicked. A smile makeover helps in increasing the confidence of an individual. A good smile influences people psychologically, and also helps to judge people. An attractive smile also has a positive impact on ones romantic life.What factors should be kept in mind to get natural results? Factors such as gender, age, lifestyle, structure of the face should be taken care of by the dentist before going for a smile makeover.What are the procedures used for a smile makeover? Procedures such as porcelain crowns, tooth whitening, bonding, porcelain veneers etc are the most common procedures used. Though the final decision depends upon the time the patient can spare as well as the features he would like to change. A smile makeover can:- Repair broken, chipped teeth by porcelain crowns, veneers and cosmetic bonding.Straightening of crooked teethMissing teeth can be replaced and the gap is filled with the help of dental implants, dentures, braces.For a gummy smile a surgery/ laser is the best way to get an attractive smileTeeth whitening can help whiten stained teethLumineers can be used to fill up the gap between the teeth.

What is the meaning of dental implant? A dental implant is manmade replacement in place of the natural teeth which enables a person to have fixed teeth. Dental implants are different from transplants taken from others. What category of dental transplant is suitable for a patient depends on the individual need and condition of the teeth. An x-ray is required to check the number of bones remaining; space available in the mouth .The dentist does a examination before finalizing which type of implant should be done.Who are the candidates for dental implant? People who are missing teeth may it be one or all are candidates for an implant. If a person is missing 1 or few teeth then dental implants along with a crown /bridge can be used to replace the missing teeth and these manmade teeth function as good as natural teeth and there is no further loss of bones and decay .If a person is missing all teeth then implant is used to anchor loose denture. In some cases when bones are lost; bones can be regenerated with the technique of bone expansion which further helps in implants.How much does an implant cost? The cost can be determined after thorough examination and recording of individual case. Moreover personnel skill of the dentist, location of the clinic and individual requirement determine the cost of an implant.How much time is required? Dental implant is a advance procedure hence it takes time of say 4-9 months or even more depending upon the individual case. The dentist does provide temporary teeth during this period and the patient is never without teeth.Is the treatment painful? There is a little discomfort at the time of the procedure but patient sedation and anesthesia are used to reduce the discomfort. Most of the patients experience pain for 2-3 days after the implant/surgery. Dentists also give medicines to reduce the pain and avoid any type of discomfort.

What do you mean by dental crowns? Dental crown works like a cap which is tooth shaped and is placed over the teeth. It covers the teeth and restores its shape, strength, size and moreover improves ones appearance. Crown is cemented over the gum line and it covers the whole teeth making it completely invisible.Why do we require dental crowns? Dental crowns have many uses such as:- To safeguard a weak teeth from breakingTo hold the parts of cracked /chipped toothTo support and cover the teeth which has a lot of filling and the teeth is hardly left.To keep the dental bridges in placeTo cover discolored/ badly shaped teethTo restore a broken tooth/ worn-down toothCrown covers a dental implant What type of crowns is available? Crowns are available in different materials such as:- METALSIn case of metal crowns less teeth is reduced, and reduction of adjacent teeth is minimum. Such crowns are very strong and do withstand chewing and biting pressure. Metal crowns do not crack or break. Alloy of gold, palladium, nickel are used in case of metal crowns .The only drawback of metal crowns is the color .These crowns are best suited for out of sight teeth / molars.FUSION OF PORCELAIN AND METALThese crowns can match the color of the teeth. As compared to metal crowns, more wearing of teeth is required. The porcelain may break /crack. But such crowns look like natural teeth. Sometimes the metal placed under the crown is visible at the gum line, hence these crowns are suitable for back/ front teeth.ALL RESINThese crowns are not so expensive but there are chances of wearing down over time.ALL PORCELAIN/CERAMICThese crowns are best for the front teeth and suitable for people who are allergic to metal. Though not so strong but matches the color of the natural teeth.

What are dental bridges & when are they used? Dental bridges are used in case of a missing tooth , they are false teeth also called as pontics .Dental bridges fills up the gap created by a missing teeth which helps in reducing dental problems , tooth drift and gum diseases. Traditionally removable dentures were used, which were not permanent, but dental bridges are permanent as they are anchored to the teeth with the help of metal bands held by Cement or resin.What type of material is used for dental bridges? Materials used include porcelain, gold fused with the metal, or in many situations only porcelain is used. The type and amount of teeth reduction depends on the type of materials used.What are the types of bridges used? Three types of bridges are used fixed, cantilever and resin bonded bridges. Two main factors decide the type of bridge to be used i.e. the positioning of the gap as well as the teeth situated on either sides of the gap. Fixed Bridges These bridges fill up the gap anywhere in the mouth. In this a false tooth is anchored to a new crown which is attached to the teeth situated at the either side of the gap. Crowns are made of porcelain and the new teeth are made up of porcelain or ceramic. Cantilever Bridges These dental bridges are used when there is only one healthy tooth at one side of the gap. This bridge is anchored to one or more than one teeth, on one side only. Such bridges are suitable for front teeth i.e. low stress bridges.

What is Flap surgery? Flap surgery is a procedure in which the gums are separated from the teeth and folded back temporarily to allow a dentist to reach the root of the tooth and the bone.When it is needed? Flap surgery is done in cases of periodontal disease which is inflammation of gums and surrounding structures that holds the teeth.Why is it done? Infection of gums releases bacterial toxins that affect the inner layer of gum and surrounding structures of the teeth. Long standing infection and inflammation can erode the bone that surrounds the teeth resulting in gum pockets and tooth mobility.

What is the meaning of pediatric dentistry? Pediatric dentistry specializes in/takes care of the oral health of infant, children and adolescent. This dentistry also treats children with special needs, who are physically and mentally challenged. Pediatric dentistry involves additional study of 3 years (i.e. after 4 years of dental training).This branch of dentistry studies child growth, psychology and development. Such dentists take care of wide variety of dental problems of children e.g. cavity, tooth decay, malocclusion, emergency care, crooked teeth etc.When should a child first visit the dentist? According to American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry the child should be brought to the dentist when he turns 1 year old .By that time the first teeth comes and the dentist can discuss ways of keeping oral hygiene. A dentist can guide the parents about diet, tooth eruption, finger habits, fluoride etc.How many visits are recommended? According to American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry the child should be brought twice a year to the dental clinic .The visits may vary if the child has tooth decay, bad oral hygiene, and unusual teeth growth.How important are baby teeth? They help the child to crew food, smile properly and speak clearly. Baby teeth hold the space for permanent teeth. If child looses teeth at an early age because of decay/ damage the nearby teeth can encroach that free space which can result in misplaced/crooked permanent teeth.How to clean baby teeth? For an infant a soft cloth should be used to clean his/her gums after every feed. Once the child has one tooth a soft tooth brush can be used.

What do you mean by sedation? Sedation dentistry helps one to snooze virtually during the visits to the dental clinic. It helps to go through the entire dental procedure comfortably and safely.Who are the best candidates of sedation dentistry? People who gagHave problem in getting numbhave fear of the dental treatmentwho have sensitive teethwho have experienced traumatic dental procedureWho hate shots and needleWho do not like the smell, noise and taste of the dental treatment Does one experience any pain? People feel very comfortable and no pain while the dental treatment is going on and feel even better after the treatment is over.What type of sedation is used? General anesthesia is one type of sedation which everyone thinks off, but this requires a machine for breathing. For oral surgeries IV sedation is used. The most convenient, safe and comfortable is oral sedation. In this a pill is given to the patient a few hours prior to the visit to the dental clinic.What are different levels of sedation? Mild Sedation in which one is conscious and responds to verbal command. Heart functioning and breathing is normal and unaffected .Coordination and cognitive functions can be impaired. Moderate Sedation in which there is depression of consciousness and the patient is forced to respond to command. Breathing and functioning of heart is not affected. Deep Sedation in which patient cannot be easily aroused and there is depression of consciousness. Patient responds purposefully. Breathing may be impaired, and heart functions normally. General Anesthesia in which there is complete loss of consciousness and the patient cannot be aroused. Breathing is impaired and there is the need of ventilator. Heart functioning can be impaired.

Root canal treatment/ Endodontics Root canal treatment is done when the infection/ decay spreads to the nerve in the tooth causing pain and sometimes abscess/pus. It is the most preferred treatment to retain natural toothSigns and symptoms showing root canal therapy Deep cavitiesSudden intense pain in the toothTooth pain that increases while you lie down and reduces once you sit upPain while chewingContinuous pain on consuming hot/ cold foodsProminent swelling around toothTeeth that are severely worn out and sensitiveTrauma ( accident ) resulting in discoloration of tooth Procedure Is painless as it is done under local anesthesiaCan be single or multiple visitDecay is removed, canals in the tooth are cleaned and the space is filled with inert material. Tooth is sealed with temporary filling After procedure Avoid chewing and eating until numbness is gone.You may have some discomfort or soreness for a day or twoAntibiotics and pain killers help in recoveryAfter a week, permanent filling and crown is necessary.

How important is brushing? Brushing is very important as it keeps our teeth and gums healthy. It helps to clean dirt between the gums and the teeth and also between two teeth. Brushing technique should be soft (to message the gums) and firm (to remove dirt).Brushing reduces the risk of infection and cavities making both teeth as well as gums strong.What are the methods of brushing? There are 2 common techniques of brushing i.e. bass and fones methods of brusing.Bass technique are used by adults and fones is for the children. Bass technique is for routine use; in this the brush is at 45 degree to the long axis of the teeth. The bristles are used to clean the area between the gums and the teeth as well as between two teeth. After this brushing is done with front and back strokes along with vibratory action. Posterior and anterior strokes are used for the eating surface. Fones technique is very effective for children. In this the brush is placed at 90 degree on outer surface. The teeth are closed and rotary action of the brush helps to clean the teeth. This technique is easy to follow.How frequently should we brush the teeth? What is important is the quality of brushing rather than the number of times. But dentists recommend brushing twice a day, one time in the morning and second time at night before going to bed. Frequency of brushing depends on individual oral condition i.e. formation of plaque, gum diseases, caries risk etc.What types of brushes are available in the market? There are 3 types of brushes. Soft brushes are for those who have sensitive gums. They can clean food particles but if the gap between the teeth is less, cleaning becomes difficult. Medium brushes are for those who have healthy gums and teeth. Hard brushes are cheap but have a negative effect on the teeth; they lead to tooth abrasion which exposes the root of the teeth making the teeth sensitive to hot/cold.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two major diseases that affect your gum and surrounding structures that hold the tooth. Gingivitis is the inflammation of gums while Periodontitis is the inflammation of supporting structure that holds the teeth. When to visit a dentist? You should visit the dentist if you have any of the following symptoms Yellowish hard deposits along gum lineRed swollen gums that bleed while brushingPus / metallic tasteGums receding from teeth or teeth appear to be lengthenedMobile teethShifting of teeth or changes in alignmentFood impaction between teeth What is the treatment protocol for gingivitis and periodontitis? Foremost line of treatment is scaling/oral prophylaxis to remove the plaque/tartar that has formed around the teeth. If the inflammation/infection has reached below the gum line, curettage/root planning is required.What is curettage and root planning? It is nothing but deep cleaning of teeth and surrounding tissue. This procedure is done in adjuvant to regular scaling/oral prophylaxis. It alleviates the swelling, inflammation and bleeding due to plaque and tartar build up along the gum lines and the roots of the teeth.What happens if the tartar is not removed? Presence of tartar below the gum line leads to inflammation and infection of gums.Long standing gum infection results in bone loss leading to tooth mobility.

What is Invisalign? It is a type of orthodontic treatment to align/straighten your teeth. Invisalign aligners are the clear alternative to regular metal/ceramic braces. These clear aligners are the virtually invisible way to improve your smile. It involves wearing a set of customized aligners that will shift your teeth in the proper position. Aligners are transparent trays that you will need to wear for maximum hours/day except while eating/drinking. Why Invisalign over traditional braces? Invisalign is the option when you dont want traditional braces to impair with your smile. It doesnt involve bonding of brackets to each teeth and tightening it every month.Advantages of Invisalign/Clear aligners EstheticBarely noticeableComfortable for daily lifestyleRemovableEasy to maintain oral hygieneNo diet restrictions How does this work? Your doctor will take the necessary photos, x-rays, dental impressions, and digital scan.