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Concern over mercury amalgam fillings has grown steadily over the past years. Many patients today want to to know what the cost of mercury filling removal is, while they try to find a specialist who can remove their mercury amalgams in the safest way.

With this guide, our aim is to help you understand some basics about:

• Amalgam fillings
• The cost of mercury filling removal
• The main steps involved in the safe amalgam removal procedure.

What are the Potential Risks of Mercury Filling Removal?

Mercury is a chemical element present in water sources, in the air and in many of the foods we eat (especially seafood). It is everywhere.

However,  it is the long-term contact with mercury what makes it extremely dangerous. Too much contact with this metal may be harmful to your health and lead to symptoms such as anxiety, bad temper, memory loss, headaches, and weakness.

In the field of dentistry, amalgam fillings (a mixture of copper, silver, tin and about 50% mercury) have been widely used. They are strong and low cost. However,  with advances in technology and materials, today the tendency to avoid metal fillings has grown (it is now also avoided in pregnant women and children under 6).

For a biological dentist, for example, it is much more convenient to work with more natural and aesthetic materials, such as tooth-colored composite resin. These holistic doctors prefer to work with non-toxic and more biocompatible materials.

So Is it Worth Removing Mercury Fillings? 

Again, it all depends on your needs and wants. If your metal fillings are worn, cracked, or if there is severe decay beneath the metal filling, then you should definitely get them removed.

If your old fillings are fine, but you want to avoid the effects of mercury on your health, then you should get a mercury filling removal. Mercury amalgams release some amount of mercury in the form of vapors.

This happens specially during brushing, chewing, grinding or drinking hot liquids, and in placement or removal procedures.

So if you decide to have your mercury fillings out, make sure you contact the right dental office.

It’s important to know that some dentists specialize in safe amalgam removal. They are trained to provide you with the safest treatment possible.

SAFETY GLASSES

Safety glasses are put over your eyes to protect them.

OXYGEN

We have you breathe pure oxygen through a nasal cannula (tube). This will minimize your breathing the air right around your face, which is full of mercury vapor. Your nose will be covered with a dental mask to help keep the mercury vapor from going into your nostrils.

RUBBER DAM

A rubber dam or isolite will be placed over your mouth. This is a sheet of rubber that helps keep the mercury from going down your throat.

COLD WATER

Copious amounts of cold water will be constantly squirted on the filling as it’s being drilled out, to keep the temperature down. To decrease the amount of vapor, we section the fillings out in chunks as opposed to grinding it out. We use an electric drill for two reasons:

• First, because it cuts so much more efficiently than an air turbine.
• Second, because it turns at slower revolutions per minute, there is less heating of the tooth and less mercury vapor.

HIGH SPEED SUCTION DEVICE

A High Volume Suction device will be used. This suction pulls all particles away from the tooth as the filling is being drilled out.

CHARCOAL AND CHLORELLA

Powdered charcoal and chlorella are placed in your mouth under the rubber dam. Both these substances have the ability to absorb mercury particles before they get absorbed into your system.

MINIMUM DRILLING

The fillings will be taken out with as little drilling as possible, in as large chunks as possible, to minimize the amount of mercury vapor released into the air.

LOOPS

4x magnifiers to see minute details in the tooth will be used. This could include faint cracks and leaking crowns or fillings. The dentist can also make sure that the new crown or filling fits perfectly. Trying to do this without magnification makes it harder to get perfect results. Problems areas in the gums are more visible under magnification than with the naked eye.

INDUSTRIAL AIR CLEANING SYSTEM

The treatment room has a powerful industrial air cleaning system which reduces the amount of mercury vapors.

The IQ Air VOC Emissions and Infection Control Air Purifiers are highly specialized air cleaning systems that are designed to control Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and microbiological contaminants and odors.

It removes airborne particles from less than 0.01 micron to over 250 micron in diameter. This includes contaminants such as bacteria and spores, such as E. Coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Bacillus thuringensis and Staphylococcus aureus.

Other particles such as pollens, dust, smoke, hydrocarbons and vapors of heavy metals such as mercury vapor are also effected by the IQ Air System.

Email: contact@oceanbreezeprosthodontics.com

Phone: (561) 279-6999

WHAT IS GUM (OR PERIODONTAL) DISEASE?

Gum Disease affects 2 out of 4 Americans, according to the CDC. Given these stats, it’s crucial to know if you have it and what to do about it. Think of your gums as the foundations of your teeth. If the teeth are the walls, your gums are what support those walls. If the terrain where your house is built is not very stable, your walls may become wobbly, and you will most likely have some structural issues that not only will take time to fix, but also a LOT of money. Gums work the same way: you may have the strongest teeth, but if they are not well supported, they will fracture or fall, regardless of how white, healthy or strong your teeth might be.

So basically your teeth are as good as your gums are. If your gums are disease-free (aka pink and blood-free), your teeth will have a solid foundation to rest on. So how do you get there? It’s a simple regiment, but it requires discipline and dedication:

• Regular professional cleanings (preferably 2-3 times a year, depending on your age and the state of your gums),
• Good home care habits (brushing and flossing on a daily basis),
• Regular dental check-ups.

If you do this, chances are that you will keep your gums healthy, and avoid expensive treatments and regular visits to your dentist’s office.

Email: info@drsrohrer.com

Phone: (561) 265-1998

Stress can be defined as a state of tension triggered by difficult or tough situations. It is known to have a great impact on our physical health. Stress (or to be more specific “distress”) is part of life and it is almost impossible to get rid of it entirely.  However, lowering stress levels is important to avoid irreversible consequences on our overall body health, and more specifically, our oral health.

It is known that people who are subject to a high level of daily stress are statistically less attentive to their overall health. They are usually less likely to exercise, more likely to use alcohol tobacco or any other drugs, which simply increase tensions and keep their body under greater strain.  And oral health is no exception.

How Stress Puts a Strain on Your Oral Health

There are many ways in which stressful situations can affect our oral health. Teeth grinding, gum disease, dry mouth and even tooth decay can result from stress, depression or anxiety. In times of stressful events, we might feel so disturbed that even oral hygiene can be completely overlooked.

Bruxism can Affect Your Oral Health

Teeth Grinding or Bruxism has been proven to be more severe during periods of stress or anxiety. Teeth grinding or clenching usually happens at night, so we might not realize the pressure damage caused on our teeth. This grinding severely damages our teeth structure, our teeth enamel and can lead to sore jaw and strong facial pain.

Gum Disease

According to a review from the Journal of Periodontology (JOP) published in 2007. There seems to be a strong relationship between stress and periodontal disease. Researchers have established that stress, anxiety, depression and loneliness play a tremendous role in gum disease. When we are under stress we produce the stress hormone Cortisol (known more formally as hydrocortisone) which seems to play a role in damaging gums and bone tissue resulting in potential tooth loss.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can also be caused by stress or come up as a side effect of medicine used for treating stress disorders. Saliva is what keeps our mouths clean and free from bacteria. Without it, our mouth is much more likely to develop germs and we have higher chances to suffer from tooth decay. Also, tooth decay may increase during stressful times due to lack of hygiene and oral care.

At times it might seem terribly difficult or even impossible to find a way out of stress. But as the saying goes, while there’s life, there’s hope. Dealing with stress will help a lot to keep your mind positive and your body healthy. At our office we believe that reducing stress levels is the first step to providing our patients with optimal care within the approach of whole body health.

If you want to learn more about the relation between stress and oral health feel free to email or call Ocean Breeze at

Email: contact@OceanBreezeProsthodontics.com

Phone: (561) 265-1998

Dental care is a main concern in a person’s overall health. That’s why if you want to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful, it is important to know certain things about dental care and its specialties. Today we’ll talk about prosthodontics.

This complete guide will help you understand what a Prosthodontist does, the differences between prosthodontists and general or cosmetic dentists, and the benefits of treating your oral health with a practitioner specialized in dental prosthetics.

Dental Specialty: Prosthodontics vs. General Dentistry

Many people are not sure about the difference between prosthodontists and general dentists.

They wonder if it makes a difference between choosing one over the other.

The first thing to know is that while it is true that a prosthodontist and a general dentist sometimes perform the same procedures, there is quite a difference in what they can do, as well as their training.

They belong to two differentiated fields.

Broadly speaking, a general dentist deals with preventive and routine procedures. They can do cleanings, check ups, fix cavities, and any other routine procedures.

A prosthodontist, on the other hand, can perform these general procedures, but can go a step further.

As board certified specialists, prosthodontists perform more complex treatments such as implants, crowns, dentures, oral surgery, and maxillofacial issues.

It’s not that your dentist can’t perform these procedures also. It’s that prosthodontists are highly skilled in prosthetics and restorations.

Their job is to design, manufacture and fit any type of restorative prosthetics for patients with damaged or missing teeth. There are some that manufacture their own dentures!

But let’s see the difference more in detail.

We can analyze the difference from different perspectives:

Prosthodontist vs. Cosmetic Dentist

When we are looking for a dentist to treat our oral health, we may tend to get confused by so many terms referring to dental professionals.

When it comes to the fields of Prosthodontics and Cosmetic Dentistry, here are some of the differences:

Any general dentist can perform cosmetic treatments by developing skills and training in cosmetic procedures.

If a dentist wants to carry out cosmetic treatments, they can take training courses on cosmetic dentistry at the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, for example.

Cosmetic dental treatments can make your mouth look natural and beautiful.

In Conclusion, What Are the Benefits of Seeing a Prosthodontist?

• A prosthodontist knows exactly how to deal with the replacement and restoration of missing teeth. They also have the knowledge to make them look perfectly natural.
• A Prosthodontist knows exactly how to make your teeth get their usual normal functions. Your teeth not only need to look good, but function well. That’s why aligning the bite is so important.
• With improved gums, bite and smile, your whole body health (and self-esteem) will benefit. You’ll chew better, enjoy your meals and look amazing.

As the American College of Prosthodontists puts it: “Everyone can enjoy the confidence, fullness of life, and overall well-being that comes from a healthy mouth and an attractive smile.”

Prosthodontist FAQs

Understanding the difference between a general dentist, a cosmetic dentist and a prosthodontist can help you to choose your dentist based on your actual oral health needs.

You might need to get some dental work done and start wondering what kind of dentist you should see. So you may ask yourself: “Should I visit a general dentist, a cosmetic dentist or a prosthodontist?” The answer will depend on the type of dental issue you are dealing with. 

For example, you will most likely see a general dentist if you are in pain or if your problem mainly has to do with preventive care. If you are mostly concerned about the look of  your smile, you may go for a cosmetic dentist, but actually the best option in this case would be to see a prosthodontist. Why is that? In this article we will tell you! 

Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist & Prosthodontist

Typically, a general dentist and a cosmetic dentist have the same initial training and education.  They both perform general treatments such as regular checkups, fillings and dental crowns. They can fix cavities and repair teeth. You can also get hygiene appointments and teeth whitening treatment in either type of office. 

But there are other factors that set them apart that need to be taken into account.

Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist & Prosthodontist: Experience

Aside from training, day-to-day experience is another important aspect to take into account during the decision making process. Cosmetic dentists are usually better trained than general and family dentists in aesthetic cases because they perform these dental procedures all day long, on a diverse pool of patients. 

To put it bluntly: It’s not the same to do a couple of full mouth veneer cases a year versus one case a week. As with any other profession, practice makes perfect.

Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist & Prosthodontist: Cost and Quality

Cost and quality are other factors to consider when deciding what type of dentist you should visit.  

Usually, both general and cosmetic dentists charge similar fees. There might be a slight variation in prices, but these differences may have to do with the materials used or the doctor’s added training. 

A cosmetic dentist will probably suggest you to have your dental work done with materials that preserve the look and the aesthetics of your smile; i.e. utilizing better bonding supplies or superior dental laboratories for your porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns. As a result, you may pay a few more bucks for that procedure. But that difference will not be significant.

Cosmetic Dentist vs. General Dentist vs. Prosthodontist

If you are interested in getting a dazzling smile, you may be thinking: “A cosmetic dentist could be a good option for me”. But, even though both prosthodontists and cosmetic dentists perform similar procedures and they both take care of patients who need cosmetic and restorative treatments, there is an important difference between a prosthodontist and a cosmetic dentist.  

According to the American Dental Association, “prosthodontics is the dental specialty pertaining to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of the oral function, comfort, appearance and health of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth and/or oral and maxillofacial tissues using biocompatible substitutes”. 

While cosmetic dentists are general dentists who have attended seminars and courses in  cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontists are specialists recognized by the ADA who have obtained, after three extra years of university training, a postgraduate certificate in prosthodontics. As a result, they are the most qualified professional to take care of both the correct function and the best aesthetics of your mouth.

In general, prosthodontics specialize in more involved procedures and tend to perform more complex restorative and cosmetic cases.

The Most Common Prosthodontist Procedures

In the last few decades, dentistry has witnessed amazing developments in techniques and materials. Thanks to these innovations, prosthodontists can make your smile look perfectly natural. 

There are many different procedures that can be used depending on your specific needs. Prosthodontists can perform regular cosmetic procedures such as:

• Teeth Whitening
• Teeth Bonding
• Porcelain Veneers
• Porcelain Crowns
• Smile Makeovers

But they are specially trained in restorative and reconstructive treatments as well.  They are the most qualified dentists when it comes to repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth and taking care of maxillofacial tissues. Some of the procedures prosthodontists use when restoring the function and the look of your teeth and gums include:

• Dental Implants
• Dental Bridges
• Dentures and Partial Dentures 
• Full Mouth Rehabilitations/Reconstructions

Since prosthodontists are highly qualified professionals, they also deal with complex treatments that require a team of specialists as well as temporomandibular joint disorder syndrome (TMJ/TMD), injuries caused by traumas or accidents, sleep apnea, snoring and other sleep disorders. 

Why Should I Visit a Prosthodontist Near Me?

If you are not sure about what type of dentist you should visit. Remember that all these aspects are important to the overall health, look and functioning of your mouth. 

Sometimes, you may find yourself taking shortcuts to cope with your dental problems in the short term. But why not get the chance to see a dental professional who can provide you with comprehensive oral health care in the best possible way? 

Bottomline: if your main concern is aesthetics, probably your best bet is to see a cosmetic dentist or, preferably, a prosthodontist, who’s a specialist with postgraduate education recognized by the American Dental Association. You can’t go wrong with that.

Also, when you choose a dentist, you need to find someone who can not only keep your mouth functioning well and healthy, but also achieve the best aesthetic result for your smile. 

If you want to learn more about the difference between cosmetic dentist vs general dentist, feel free to email or call Ocean Breeze at 

Email: contact@OceanBreezeProsthodontics.com

Phone: (561) 265-1998

Few things are more embarrassing than having bad breath.  People who suffer from bad breath feel extremely uncomfortable about this issue. Fortunately, knowing the causes of halitosis is the first step to put an end to this problem in a healthy and simple way.

Why Do I Suffer From Bad Breath?

• FOOD. There are several reasons why you may suffer from bad breath. To begin with, the food we eat is directly related with having a permanent bad smell in your mouth. Sometimes we eat all kinds of “smelly foods” (like garlic, onions, cheese) which makes it difficult to do away with the strong odor set in your mouth.
• BAD HABITS. Unhealthy habits such as smoking or drinking alcohol can give you halitosis. If you drink or smoke, or have in the past, you know the simplest way to not have a bad smell in your mouth is simply avoiding the bad habit altogether.
• MEDICAL CONDITION. Bad breath can be a side effect of taking medication or undergoing certain medical treatments. Sometimes the problem might be more serious with bad breath resulting from digestive issues or yeast infection. Ulcers or reflux diseases can cause a very bad smell in your mouth. If this is the case, it is important to have a medical checkup to find a solution.
• NO ORAL CARE.  Bad breath typically results from lack of good oral care. If your mouth is not properly and regularly cleaned, germs accumulate while plaque forms between your teeth. Such accumulation of bacteria will not only damage your teeth but will also give you that undesirable bad odor in your mouth. Keeping good dental habits like brushing and flossing twice daily (cleaning your tongue, too) and getting at least two dental checkups per year is the right way to make sure you have a fresh, clean and healthy mouth.   

Email: contact@OceanBreezeProsthodontics.com 

Phone: (561) 265-1998 

Whether you have damaged or missing teeth, or you simply realize you’re due for a dental checkup,  you might be interested in finding a good prosthodontist near me. To be able to find the “best prosthodontist near me”,  you need to take a look at some important things.

Here’s a quick list of tips:  

1. What Kind of Dental Professional Do You Need? 

First, you have to think of the kind of dentist you want to find. Many patients are happy to see a specialist instead of a general dentist. Why? Because they prefer to get high quality oral treatments.

Prosthodontists are specialists with skilled training in restoring teeth and maxillofacial tissues. They also perform complex cosmetic procedures with the best outcomes. 

Prosthodontics is, in fact,  one of the nine specialties officially recognized by the ADA. As specialists, prosthodontists have to attend 4 years of dental school,  plus three years of training in advanced training.

This extended education allows “prosthos” to become highly qualified professionals.

Prosthodontists specialize in:

• mouth restoration
• restoration of natural teeth
• restoration of missing teeth
• restoration of damaged oral tissues
• aesthetic dentistry

So by choosing a prosthodontist, you are making sure you will treat your oral health in the most effective way. Besides, if you’re seeking cosmetic improvement of your smile, a prosthodontist has guaranteed training in the most advanced and updated state-of-the-art procedures and materials.  

2.Find a Dentist with Good Reputation and Training

Once you’ve decided on the right dental professional to take care of your oral health, you need to check if this dentist has good reputation and training. Find about her or his certifications. Take a look at their school training. Read online reviews to find what other patients are saying about the dentist you’re choosing. 

It’s useful to have in mind that ADA (American Dental Association)  members keep ongoing training and updated dental practices. That’s why choosing an ADA prosthodontist is another guarantee for good dental work. 

Also, consider this: try to find someone who is recommended by a friend, co-worker, family member, or anybody whose opinion you really trust. It is very important to get high quality dental work because when it comes to your oral health, you want to be in safe hands.

3. Is Insurance your Main Concern When Choosing your Prosthodontist Near Me?

If you’re looking for a good prosthodontist near you, you should also find a balance between insurance, costs and benefits. To make it clearer: if you decide to see a prosthodontist because you have some important dental issues to solve (let’s say implants, crowns, dentures or bridges), you should try to find someone you can trust.

And this decision should rest on a more solid basis than insurance alone. 

In dentistry, many patients suffer the consequences of cheap dental work. On occasions, getting your dental work at the first office you find might bring along future problems. Everyday you hear about patients complaining about poor dental procedures they have gone bad.

Besides, insurance plans do not typically cover those treatments that go beyond a simple cleaning or filling. So it may happen that you limit yourself to the list of in-network providers only to end up paying more money in the long run.

Try to avoid dentists with poor training or experience in restorative or cosmetic treatments. 

Instead, try to choose the dentist that suits your needs best. Then, check for insurance coverage, reimbursements, or payment plans.

Usually, 50 to 80 %of treatments involving crowns, bridges, bonding, or other procedures are covered by insurance, although that will depend a lot on the type of plan you have. By getting proper and effective treatments you will avoid spending more money in the future.

Remember in dentistry, as in many other things in life, you get what you pay for. 

4. Find a Helpful Office with a Caring Staff

Finding a trustworthy professional is key. However, your experience at the dental office will also highly depend on how well the staff makes you feel. A kind staff will:

• answer phone calls politely
• try to fit you in case of an emergency or severe pain.
• ask for previous x-rays to avoid over exposure of radiation and paying more money
• make you feel at home and relaxed every time you go in for an appointment.
• help you out with paperwork and insurance coverage. (Many dental offices are willing to help you find out the benefits of your insurance and file your claims for you to your insurance provider).
• give you all the necessary information. Sometimes it is hard to determine procedures or prices over the phone (office staff are not doctors!) But, a helpful staff will give you a range of costs before your treatment. They can also guide you on the kind of appointment you should get.

5. Make Sure your “Near Me Prosthodontist”  is in Fact Near You

Picking a specialist in your area is the best choice for getting to your appointments regularly and on time. 

Driving long distances can make you feel distress much before getting to the dental office. Besides, if you have to cancel or reschedule your visit,  finding a dentist or prosthodontist who is near the place where you work or live will make things much easier. 

Remember  your dentist will be taking care of your oral and whole body health. So it is important you have easy access to your dental practitioner. If you are in Boca Raton or in Delray Beach try to find a professional at your reach. 

However, you may find a dentist you really trust and you feel comfortable with, but who is rather far from your area.  Then, you need to think what’s best for you. In other words: find a balance between quality and distance. It may happen that you find someone who is a bit far away from your area, but the practice is much more effective and  you make sure you visit the office fewer times.

6. If Possible, Find a Holistic Dental Office. 

A prosthodontist who can take care of both your oral and whole body health will certainly make your best choice. Why? Because your mouth is part of your whole body system. So a dentist who can take into account the effects and links between your oral treatments and the rest of your body will have a more complete view of your oral health.  

Holistic dental practice is beneficial because it:

• takes into account your whole body, not only your mouth and teeth
• takes into account your nutrition and health habits
• makes use of biocompatible materials that do not harm your body
• performs the least invasive treatments possible
• will provide a relaxing and comfortable experience during your visit.  Relaxation techniques and essential oils, for example, can be part of a holistic practice. 

Both holistic and specialized dental practices can give you the best experience when dealing with your oral care. When trying to find the best prosthodontist near you, make sure you consider these tips.

To sum up, remember to:

• take into account the dentist’s training
• look at what other people are saying about the dentist you choose 
• make a good choice based on your specific needs (making a balance between costs and benefit)
• find a friendly staff
• find a professional who can treat you as a person, not just your mouth
• choose an office that practices holistic dentistry

You deserve to be treated in the best and most caring way. Finding a good prosthodontist near you will not only make you feel at ease but also help your mouth and your wallet in the long run. 

A deep cleaning is recommended when a patient presents some form of periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal disease can be described as a silent, persistent bacterial infection that can affect your gums and the bone that supports your teeth as well as your overall body health. Periodontal disease has been associated with increased risks of stroke, heart disease, pregnancy complications and other respiratory infections.

According to the ADA, more than 70% of US adults suffer from some form of periodontal disease. Problem is that sometimes patients don’t really know what they are getting into. They wonder why they should proceed with the treatment or even if they need the treatment at all.

OK, I NEED A DEEP CLEANING. HOW DO I PAY FOR IT?

So, how do you keep a deep cleaning within your budget? Many times, when a dentist presents a treatment, it will include many services that can be postponed or maybe avoided. For instance, even though there are many benefits to using an electric toothbrush, if you want to keep your costs down, you can restore your gums back to health using a conventional toothbrush.

Another way to save is to do a quadrant at a time (like your upper right, for example) or half a mouth. It is not ideal, since you are dealing with active infection, but when finances are a problem, doing some work is better than no work at all.

Finally, start brushing and flossing! The simple act of brushing and flossing on a regular basis may significantly decrease (but will not eliminate) the active infection, and may also help decrease the cost of the treatment. You can also use an antiseptic mouthwash, which is used to kill the bacteria causing the infection.

In the end, you will need to have your teeth professionally cleaned, especially because most of the infection tends to lay below the gums, where you or your brush have no access. When you do, ask your doctor or hygienist to educate you on how to floss and brush properly. A bad flossing or brushing technique can sometimes do more damage than good.

If you want to learn more about periodontal disease or need to know if you really need a deep cleaning, feel free to email or call us at

Email: info@drsrohrer.com

Phone: (561) 265-1998

We can help you to overcome dental fear!

“I have tooth pain but I don’t plan on going to the dentist because I suffer from dental fear…”

As dentists we’ve heard this many times. Some dentists would say that your dental fear should not keep from getting the dental care you need; our approach is different. At Ocean Breeze we believe that your dentist should not make you feel afraid or uncomfortable. We believe that your dentist and their staff should create a relaxing atmosphere where you feel comfortable and confident about the work being done.

If pain or stress is an issue, we suggest you choose a dental office which offers you options for pain and stress management. Your dentist should offer the traditional premedication options which will help you relax or sleep through the procedure. Sometimes we hear patients snore during their procedure. If you are snoring, chances are you are not feeling discomfort…

Your dentist should also offer a holistic alternative to pain and stress management. More and more people nowadays try to stay away from pain management medication; our office has great alternatives for them. Ocean Breeze offers deep relaxation, aromatherapy, special teas and herbs, craniosacral therapy as well as other options to help you conquer the stress of being in a dental office.

The most important person should be you, the patient. Your dentist needs to put you and your comfort at the top of the priority list. Our office puts the emphasis on the patient. We take our time to evaluate your condition and give you time to be ready for the procedure, however small or complex it may be. Our doctors see only one patient at a time, so you will never feel like a serial number at the bottom of a chart.

So if you fear the dentist, if you are anxious to go to the dentist, come to our office for a f tour of our facilities, and a free consultation with any of our doctors. From the relaxing music and atmosphere in the waiting room, to our friendly and caring staff, we hope to present to you an alternative to fear.

Feel free to email or call us at

Email: Contact@OceanBreezeProsthodontics.com

Phone: (561) 265-1998

If you’ve been asking the question: “Do I Really Need a Crown?”, you have probably talked to a few friends, a couple of dentists, researched online, and are still left with as many questions as when you started, maybe even more.

So let’s take a look at a few things which should give you more clarity to understand whether you need a dental crown or not.

Reasons Why You Would Need a Dental Crown

There are many reasons why you could need a crown. Here are the three main reasons:

– A dental crown can help make a weak tooth stronger in the event the original tooth was fractured or highly decayed.

– A dental crown can also be used for aesthetics reasons. If your teeth look uneven in shape and color, for example, you may decide to get a crown to make your smile look nicer.

– A previous restoration chipped, fell off or is falling and you need to replace it with something more permanent such as a dental crown.

Basically, You Will Probably Need a Dental Crown in Case you Have:

• a very weak tooth
• a cracked tooth
• a dental implant (or a root canal treatment) that needs to be capped with a crown
• uneven or discolored teeth (and you want to improve aesthetics)
• to hold a dental bridge

 Now, How Do I Know The Type Of Crown That Best Suits my Needs?

That is something you need to discuss with your doctor. You will probably get different choices according to:

-The place where the crown will be placed

-Your needs and wants

-Your budget, and your insurance coverage

Alternatives To Getting a Dental Cap

Nine times out of ten, when a dentist recommends a cap it is because you need it.

However, in cases where other options can work without running the risk of losing your tooth there are alternatives to getting a crown.

Below are a few options to avoid the time and costs associated with a lab custom fabricated restoration.

1. Porcelain Onlays: Porcelain onlays are a safer approach, preserving more of your natural tooth structure, which in the end leads to a healthier mouth. The porcelain onlay is bonded to your natural tooth’s enamel, helping it avoid fracture, while preserving most of the enamel. Only 2% of dentists in the US perform this procedure regularly, according to a recent study of the ADA. This procedure requires a high level of skills and takes more work and time, but when performed by the right dentist, it can be a great alternative to getting a dental crown.

2. Phasing Treatment: In some instances, you can put a filling instead of a crown. Although a crown would be the optimal solution, putting a filling could buy you time until you get a more definitive treatment.

3. Using Provisional Crowns: In some occasions, your dentist will be able to use an in-office fabricated crown, also known as a provisional crown. The provisional  crown can be bonded to the tooth and buy the patient time until he or she can afford a more definitive treatment. The downside to provisional crowns is that they are only temporary. On average, a provisional crown will last 3-9 months. Keeping a temporary crown too long can result in the patient losing the tooth.

4. In-office lab Indirect Resin Crowns: even though very few dentists use this approach, in office lab indirect resin crowns are a good short term alternative to a crown. An indirect resin crown is made out of resin (instead of porcelain). The indirect resin cap is made in the office by the doctor, and finished on the same day. Although this method is performed only by a few doctors, it can save you time and money in the short term.

Main Take-Away

If you decide to have a dental crown done, choose a dentist that has good credentials, and above all, that he or she is a good restorative dentist. Prosthodontists, for example, are  highly trained dentists who have taken three or four year of further studies. They can provide restorative treatments in the most skilled and professional way.

A highly trained dentist such as a prosthodontist will not only care about the appearance of the tooth, but most importantly, the functional aspects of the crown as well as the bite or occlusion.

These factors are part of what determines the longevity of a cap and can make the difference between a crown that will last as little as 2 years or as long as 20 or 30 years.

If you’ve been asking the question: “Do I Really Need a Crown?”, you have probably talked to a few friends, a couple of dentists, researched online, and are still left with as many questions as when you started, maybe even more.

What Do We Achieve with Dental Veneers?

The main purpose of dental veneers is to achieve a more aesthetic smile. 

Over the years, your teeth may start getting dark and/or wearing out. Your smile may not be as nice as it used to be. 

Fortunately, with so many advances in cosmetic dentistry, you can renew your smile using Dental Veneers. Both porcelain and composite laminates make a great option for getting a healthy and natural-looking smile. 

These porcelain or composite layers can cover your tooth surface and give you an improved, picture-perfect mouth.

Your dentist can recommend dental veneers if your teeth are:

• chipped
• darkened or yellowish
• gapped or crooked
• misshapen

How Can we Extend the Life of a Dental Veneer?

Dental veneers simulate the functionality and esthetics of the teeth so well that patients forget that they are wearing them, and do not pay attention when eating certain foods that are harmful to their durability. It is recommended not to bite or eat hard things, maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular check-ups at the dentist.

How Does the Veneers Procedure Work?

The porcelain veneers procedure normally includes just a few couple of steps:

1. First, your teeth will be carefully adapted and reshaped. This includes taking molds, removing some part of your natural enamel, and selecting the right shade for the new layer. It is important to notice that some part of your enamel will be removed, which makes the treatment a non-reversible procedure.

2. At this point you will wear temporary for a few days, which will be almost identical to the final porcelain veneers made at the dental lab.

3. If you are happy with the look and feel of the temporary layers, the final ceramic laminates will be carefully bonded. Remember that these restorations first need to be custom-made at the dental lab.

What Are the General Advantages of Veneers For Teeth?

It might be useful to consider both the pros and cons of veneers before deciding whether this is the right cosmetic solution for you.

Main Benefits of Dental Veneers Include:

• Your teeth will look naturally flawless.
• Treatment is quite short compared to other cosmetic treatments.
• Treatment does not require a big quantity of your natural tooth being removed.
• They are coated with a laminate that resists stains better than natural teeth.
• They are strong and resilient. They will function just as well as the natural tooth.
• Maintenance is low, as long as you brush and floss regularly and have your teeth professionally cleaned at least 2 times a year.

Advantages of Composite Veneers include:

• Less tooth enamel is removed from your natural teeth.
• If everything runs smoothly, you may get your composite veneers done in just one office visit.
• Composite veneers are easy and quick to replace if eventually they get damaged .

How Much Are Veneers?

The cost of teeth veneers will vary depending on the material used and on the number of teeth to be treated. In general, veneers cost will range between $800 and $2,500 per tooth. 

As the use of veneers is something purely aesthetic, this cosmetic treatment is not covered by insurance. 

However, if you are really looking for a change in your smile, this is the right path to follow. Save up some money and get ready to have a “Hollywood smile”. 

How Do I Know If I Need Veneers?

Scheduling a dental appointment and asking your dentist if laminates are a suitable option for you is definitely the starting point. You can opt for porcelain or composite layers to enhance your smile if you have problems that involve:

– twisted or crooked teeth                                               – misshapen or irregularly shaped teeth

– gapped teeth                                                                   – stained or worn out teeth

– broken teeth

General Advantages of Teeth Veneers

It might be useful to consider both the pros and cons of veneers before deciding whether this is the right cosmetic solution for you.

Main benefits of dental veneers include:

•  Your teeth will look naturally flawless.
• Treatment is quite short compared to other cosmetic treatments.
•  Treatment does not require a big quantity of your natural tooth being removed.
•  They are coated with a laminate that resist stains better than natural teeth.
•  They are strong and resilient. They will function just as well as the natural tooth.
•  Maintenance is low, as long as you brush and floss regularly and have your teeth professionally cleaned at least 2 times a year.

Some of the Downsides of Teeth Veneers Include:

– Treatment is irreversible: some part of your tooth or teeth has to be removed.

– Changes in color cannot be guaranteed: the rest of your teeth might change color overtime, but the dental veneer will not (a possible solution to this is teeth whitening).

– Porcelain veneers may be more fragile: they may crack more easily than crowns or fillings, for example.

-Not everyone might be a candidate for dental veneers.

Keep in mind that under any kind of cosmetic treatment, you need to have your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist to ensure continued good health.

Finding the best dental office near you can be fairly time-consuming. A new dentist means a long-term partner, someone who will take care of your oral health over many years. That’s why you want to choose a good – and why not the best – dentist in your area. So even if you don’t have much time to spend on comparing all dental offices near you, take a deep look at certain things to decide if you’ve come across the right place.

2. To be the best dental office it must look clean and safe

According to the American Dental Association, dental offices must follow strict infection control procedures. Dentists must take certain precautions to keep materials sterilized, as well as rooms and surfaces. A watchful look at the place will confirm the office does care for safety and cleanliness. Also, you can evaluate if the dental team is wearing the right equipment, which includes gloves, gowns, and masks. Try to find out if they replace the safety garb and disposable items each time they examine a new patient. Dental tools which are non-disposable MUST be cleaned and sterilized every time. Last but not least, watch out for soap and hand sanitizers around. Clean hands are a key measure for preventing infections and transmission of bacteria.

4. The best dental office has the best team of professionals

A dentist’s training translates into a successful dental treatment. But not just that. A dentist’s experience also determines how comfortable you feel while you are getting the treatment. It’s very important you find a skilled professional, so you should definitely ask about this before choosing your dental office. The best dental offices work with doctors that have been highly trained (probably Pankey trained dentists) providing their patients with the most personalized, comprehensive, long-term oral care possible.

5. Is the Office Equipped with High-Quality Technology?

Technology is changing dentistry day after day making it more comprehensive, efficient and competent. The best dental offices work with top quality technology to provide greater benefits to their patients. Technology (including dental chairs, furniture, tools, lights, digital imaging, sterilization methods, digital information platforms, etc.) enables dentists to provide better procedures, more long-lasting results, and less invasive or painful treatments. The idea is that the office can make use of the latest technology to enhance your experience as a patient.

Email: info@drsrohrer.com

Phone: (561) 265-1998