Ask dentist questions and find answers
How long will a veneer last?
Several factors can affect the longevity of veneers, such as the effectiveness of the bond to the tooth, the patient's bite, and inappropriate use of the patient’s teeth.
Under ideal circumstances, a well-done veneer can typically last a long time. I personally have patients who still have veneers in good condition since 1989. With the advances made in dental adhesives, very tenacious bonding of porcelain to tooth structure has been achieved.
Realistically speaking on average,(taking into account all levels of technical ability) it is not unreasonable for one to expect to replace some or all veneers after ten year period. Done properly, I personally feel they can last much longer.
What dental problems concern you most regarding children?
As a dentist, one of the greatest concerns I have for pediatric patients is caries, or tooth decay. Dental caries is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases affecting young people today.
Dental caries in children is far more common and far more serious than most people know. In fact, caries are more common in children than both asthma and hay fever. Sadly, children from low- income families are two times more likely to suffer from caries.
Caries that are not treated properly can lead to problems in eating, speaking and even learning in children. If you are the parent of a young child, I recommend good dental hygiene, regular check-ups, a healthy diet and the use of dental sealants.
What is the importance of dental sealants?
The term "dental sealant" refers to a plastic which a dentist bonds into the grooves of the chewing surface of a tooth as a means of helping to prevent the formation of tooth decay.
Tooth decay is caused by plaque. The longer plaque remains on a tooth's surface the more likely it will be able to create a cavity. The idea behind brushing teeth is that the plaque that has accumulated on a tooth's surface is scrubbed off. Some teeth however, because of their anatomy, are harder to effectively clean than others, especially some of the back teeth and molars.
Even though a person brushes, they cannot clean the plaque adequately because the bristles of their toothbrush are literally too large to gain access to the bottom of the tooth's grooves. Because some plaque is not cleaned off, a cavity can develop.
A dentist can combat this situation by bonding plastic (the dental sealant) into the grooves of a tooth. The net result is that the surface of the tooth is somewhat flatter and smoother. There are no longer any places on the chewing part of the tooth that the bristles of a toothbrush can't reach and clean. Since plaque can be removed more easily and effectively, there is much less chance that decay will start.
When applied correctly, sealants are an exceptional preventive service for patients at high risk for caries. Professional sealant products are available through dentists and dental hygienists.
Are dental plans a good idea?
I have to begin by telling you that there is a difference between a dental plan and traditional dental health insurance.
A dental plan generally offers inexpensive dental care at a low cost.
To a lay person, unfamiliar with the in's and out's of dentistry, a dental plan may seem like a good alternative to more costly dental health insurance.
These dental plans can sometimes be suspect and here is why:
How a Typical Dental Plan Works
Most dental plans charge (as an example) a subscriber fee of $13.00 per person/month. Out of that $12, let's say, the dentist is given $6/month/person. The dental plan keeps $6/month as an administrative fee without assuming any responsibility or liability for the treatment that the person receives. The dentist, on the other hand, usually agrees to provide those patients with free cleanings, exams, x-rays, and other services at a greatly reduced rate.
The dentist assumes all responsibility. To the lay person, this all seems great, free cleanings, x-rays and fillings. Does this really make sense? Think about what the dentist has to pay his staff to provide these services. Six dollars a month for twelve months, that's $72.00! The numbers do not add up. How does a dentist cover his expenses? First of all, you will find that many of the budget multi-dentist facilities accept these dental plans. They usually have young dentists, who work on a commission.
The faster they work and the more they produce, the more they earn.
In some plans, because fillings are free, patients are sometimes told they don't have any cavities. Then after a period of time, the small cavity matures into a major problem for the patient that requires a root canal and a crown.
Most dental plans charge a fee for a root canal as opposed to the small cavity. The patient ends up paying for something that could have been avoided.
Did they save money on this plan?
As a consumer, you really need to ask yourself if the dental plan you are considering will provide you quality dentistry at a real savings.
Smile Gallery
Take a look at the amazing differences Dr. Williams has made in people’s lives using porcelain veneers, dental implants, and more at his State College clinic near Altoona, PA. With nearly 30 years experience in dentistry, Dr. Williams is a foundational member of the Pennsylvania general and cosmetic dentistry community. To learn more about our services, which include dental implants, porcelain veneers, and whitening teeth, contact our State College office today!