For the Patient

Should I Platform Switch my Dental Implants? Three Reasons Why!

May 23, 2017 by musfeldt Leave a Comment

Should I platform switch dental implant abutments? This may have been somewhat of a controvery a decade ago but there is plenty of scientific data to support the efficacy and benefits at this point. A platform switch is using a smaller diameter abutment on a larger diameter implant platform. In addition to the aesthetic benefits discussed later, platform switching allows the patient to more effectively clean the dental implant site. A popular thought with the machine fit implants is that bugs/ bacteria are able to live right at the implant/abutment junction and prevent bone adaptation. The platform switch allows the junction to be more easily cleansed therefore allowing for better integration of bone in the area. Two additional benefits are:

What is a Dental Implant?

May 23, 2017 by musfeldt Leave a Comment

A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth’s root. Dental implants allow patients to have teeth restored without removing tooth structure from adjacent teeth. Having an implant placed will typically help you prevent the loss of bone in the area. Dental implants are placed sub-gingivally or beneath the tissue level. [Read more…] about What is a Dental Implant?

Top 10 Smile Design Considerations

May 23, 2017 by musfeldt Leave a Comment

There are many factors to consider when creating a beautiful smile design. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and a smile design definitely fits the saying. These are universal principles, however a patients personal preferences will also need to be discussed prior to fabrication of the veneers or all porcelain crowns. The top 10 smile design considerations are listed below, broken down into two segments, facial and dental components.

What is a Dental Crown?

May 22, 2017 by musfeldt Leave a Comment

A dental crown is a precisely fabricated tooth shaped device, typically made of porcelain, designed to restore a prepped tooth to its natural form. It can improve the shape, size, strength, color and function once cemented. Crowns are most typically recommended due to excessive decay or fractures to the existing tooth. Crowns can be made from various materials including but not limited to: gold, zirconia, porcelain fused to metal, and lithium disilicate.

TIP: Once it is determined you need a crown discuss the pros and cons of materials with your dentist. Ex: strength, necessary reduction of tooth structure and esthetics

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