Hi Everyone

Thank you for taking the time to read this article about how things are going for our clinic during the COVID 19 outbreak. It is important that we keep open communication with you all for the next few months ahead. We will answer some Frequently Asked Questions in the list below so you can understand what’s happening in our clinic Dental Care Macedonia. 

Are we still open?

Our clinic has ceased appointments for both national & international patients. We are now fully closed effective 30/03/2020 until further notice. Skopje Airport is closed until further notice from our government. We will naturally be in touch with any patients who have appointments in the coming weeks. 

What happens to my appointment if I cannot fly to Macedonia on my specific dates?

If you are an impacted customer arriving in March or April our team will be in contact with you at our earliest convenience to find a suitable time for rescheduling. Thankfully, most airlines are offering a free change of flight for future dates

Part of the service we offer free to our patients is information about travel & any assistance you need related to the same. So our team will guide you with changing your flights & even help out with making the changes so you don’t need to stress too much. We have you covered.

What will happen to my accommodation in Macedonia?

If you have previously booked accommodation through Booking or Airbnb… feel free to contact our customer service team we can help you arrange to reschedule for an appointment date in May/June. Again we offer you full support here so feel free to ask our team for help.

When do we expect to be back open?

At present, we are the same as literally every other small business, we can only take things on a day to day basis. We are hoping that all of this will blow over by May/June 2020 so we can begin making people smile again. 

Does Macedonia have many cases of COVID 19?

Thankfully, our country has been very proactive in dealing with the situation to control the spread of the virus. To date, we only have 240 cases of COVID 19 as our airport has been closed for nearly 2 weeks now. Also, Macedonia does not get as many tourists as many European countries so that has helped our country massively. 

What steps is Macedonia following as controls for COVID 19?

Like most nations in Europe, we have closed all public events, bars & restaurants until further notice. We have supermarkets, pharmacies & a few other necessary shops are still open. We are staying at home to control the spread of the virus & to keep our hospitals from overcrowding. When we are out in public our people are practicing social distancing. 

What can I do to keep my teeth healthy until now & by the time your clinic opens again?

If you want your dental health in the best shape possible before your appointment time, we suggest brushing your teeth 2 times per day as you should normally be doing. If you have gum disease or your gums are bleeding use a soft to medium toothbrush along with Sensodyne toothpaste.

If you feel your gums could do with dental hygienist treatment I can recommend you to get a bottle of Cordosyl to rinse out your mouth. If you want to send us any communication about your dental health during this time get in touch on Facebook, Instagram, email or our WhatsApp number.

What do we suggest you do to get through these next few months? 

The most important thing is to look after your close friends & family during these times. If we all respect what is going on it will blow over sooner & we can go back to appreciating our lives. Stay at home.. watch some nice movies, play with your children, Skype with your friends, look at old holiday photos, play some board games & put yourself in a good frame of mind. 

If you have elderly or vulnerable people in your circle of friends ensure that they are looked after with food, clothes & medicines. It is important to stay in contact with people during these times & keep everyone in a positive mood. Stay away from too much negativity & remember we are all in this together.

Here in Dental Care Macedonia, we wish you, your family & friends health & happiness. 

Many Thanks

Dr. Ivica Lukanoski

The post Update On Our Clinic: COVID 19 appeared first on Dental Care Macedonia.

The post Kevin Midlands, Ireland appeared first on Dental Care Macedonia.

The post Stephen Dublin Ireland appeared first on Dental Care Macedonia.

The post Mark Dublin Ireland appeared first on Dental Care Macedonia.

By dental definition, dental caries is representing the destruction of the tooth enamel – the outer layer that is protecting the whole tooth.

The early manifestation of the caries is a small spot of demineralization (softer) enamel at the surface of the tooth, which most of the time is hidden into the fissures or in between the teeth. When is not noticed on time, and with time, this white spot will spread into the softer and more sensitive part of the tooth – the dentin. When the demineralization will reach the dentin, the enamel will just collapse into the dentin and form a cavity.

Dental caries is caused by the action of acids on the top layer of the tooth – enamel. This acid is produced when the sugars from the food or drinks will react with the bacteria, which is present in the dental plaque (film on the top of the surface of the tooth). The presence of this acid leads to loss of calcium and phosphate from the enamel – process which is called demineralization.

Source: www.oakwoodorthodontics.co.uk

Saliva is the main source that neutralizes the acid. During the day this process happens many times and prevents caries.

Besides the neutralization, the saliva contains minerals that are remineralised and “heal” the dematerialized area of the tooth, by making neutralization and not allowing the creation of a white spot.

The process demineralization/remineralization is reversible up to certain level; when the balance is impaired the caries process is starting.

With many months of demineralization, the enamel surface will crack down, and this will lead to the formation of a cavity.

Where is caries formed?

According to the location where caries can be formed, it can be categorized into 2 major groups.

Pit and fissure caries is the most often formed caries. This type of caries can be found on the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars, as well at the back of the front teeth. The teeth are composed of few sections of enamel, and these parts meet ant pits and fissures trapping plaque which can lead to forming of caries.

Source: www.m.colgateprofessional.co.th

Smooth surface caries can be found along the gingiva or between teeth (interproximal space). This type of caries is more present at people who have tight jaw or tooth overlap, which increases the possibility the food sticking between the teeth and disallowed the cleaning.

Besides these two main categories, of caries can be also formed around dental filling or bridge works.

Dental caries beside the affection of the permanent teeth as well can affect the “milk” teeth, and in this case, its progression is much faster because the dentin tubules are wider and the caries progression and formation of the cavity can happen in 1 day.

Source: www.lifeology101.com

How should I know that I have dental caries?

When the caries is in the phase of the white spot may not have any symptoms. The earliest that you can notice is the chalky white spot on the surface of the tooth. This already is an indication that the enamel is demineralized. This white spot will continue to demineralize and the color will start to change as well and it will turn from white to brown and the cavity will be formed.

Source: www.courses.lumenlearning.com

Once the cavity is formed, it can’t be regenerated. If the color of the tooth is brownish and shiny, that means that the caries is not active anymore – the demineralization stopped. If the decay is active then it has lighter color without any shine. When the dental cavity is created, then it can be manifested in the form of sensitivity to sweet, hot or cold drinks or food.

How the dentist makes the diagnosis of dental caries?

At every visit, the dentist is checking all teeth. All of them will be checked profoundly, and some of them can be a probe with a tool called an explorer that is searching for any damaged area. Usually, this instrument can’t notice when the formation is the chalky white spot, but with the usage of x-ray, the smallest lesion after dentist suspecting can be noticed. The x-ray is very helpful for detection of caries which is located between the teeth.

Source: www.palospediatricdentistry.com

Some dental offices are using the latest high-tech devices, such as lasers for cavity detection. The laser can detect the earliest formation of caries when that one can be reversed.

How is dental caries treated? 

Caries is a process and if detected in the early stages, it can be stopped or even reversed. After caries reaches the dentin and breaks the enamel, it can be only repaired by a dentist.The standard treatment for a cavity is filling the tooth. Dental fillings are restoring cavities and bringing the damaged tooth back to his normal shape and function. There are several types of dental fillings.  Which one will be chosen depends on the location of the tooth, the surface of the damaged tooth, as well the budget.

Source: www.parkavenuedentalgnv.com

Composite fillings are made up from resin and glasslike particles, producing most natural appearance for the restoration. These types of fillings are long lasting with resilient to fractures and can be used at a small to mid-size restorations.  

Glass ionomer fillings are easily bonding with the tooth and they are tooth-colored. This type of fillings is releasing fluoride over time, preventing decay under and around the filling. This type of filling is suggested to be used at a younger population – especially at kids, as the filling doesn’t last long.

The amalgam filling was the most used or better to say the only used material, up to recently. This filling is a combination of silver, copper, tin and mercury for creating a strong and stable filling material. It is durable and easy to use, but the aesthetic look of the tooth is non-existent.

If the decay is more than 2/3 of the tooth surface, than a “must” inlay or onlay has to be placed on the tooth, because the tooth surface is not enough to support the filling. This type of fillings are made in the laboratory and afterward, they are cemented into place. They can last up to 20 years. Other solution, if the caries damage is bigger than inlay or onlay filling, then the dental crown is required. 

Tooth filling procedure is the following one: 

1. Your dentist can give you local anesthesia,  so you will not feel a thing.

2. Then the dentist, with a drill with diamante border and will remove and reshape the enamel to support the tooth filling.

3.  After the enamel is prepared, the dentist will clean the debris and caries from the dentin, using drill and steel borer, which gently is cleaning caries.

4.  After the cavity is clean, without any soft tooth spots or discolored dentin, next step is etching the tooth with acid gel for 30 seconds.

5.  Then the acid gel is washed and the cavity is dried. Depends on the filling,  the procedure can continue differently. If the composite fillings are the one that is used, a special glue is placed on the tooth surface and with the usage of LED light, it hardens.

6.  In meantime, the matching color for the filling is chosen, and a portion is filling up the cavity. After all, the portion is applied with the use of the LED light, this material becomes harder, reaching more or less the same hardness as the tooth.

7.  Once the filling is placed, the dentist will polish the tooth, making sure that all surfaces are smooth. The dental filling can last up to 5 years or more, with the proper way of with the proper way of oral hygiene. All procedures usually take up to 30 minutes.

It is usual some patients after tooth restoration to be sensitive on cold or hot drinks, approximately for a week or two. If the pain cannot be handled, the dentist can prescribe some painkillers and antibiotics, so the infection can be avoided.

What will happen if the dental caries is not treated?

If you ignore the pain and the bad breath you are getting from the already formed dental cavity then uncontrolled cavity can destroy the tooth. Without a quick reaction and a sanction on time, the dental pulp (tooth nerves) will be destroyed. Once caries starts affecting the pulp then root treatment should be done, with pulp extraction and canal treatment.

Source: www.promenade-dentist.com

How to prevent dental caries?

Caries is caused by bacteria which means, the more decays you have, the more bacteria exists in the mouth. If you continue with your oral routine which leads to caries, it will appear continually. Try to change the routine of oral care. Furthermore, if it necessary include some dental additions like dental floss or an interdental brush. A professional cleaning twice a year is obligatory as well as daily brushing at least two times per day.

Try to avoid sticky food such as candy or dried fruits as snacks because they get stuck between the teeth allowing bacteria to be multiplied and produce acid. And once you allow the bacteria to enter, that leads to tooth demineralization and caries.

Source: www.expertbeacon.com

It is obligatory to brush your teeth properly after every meal and rinse them with water. On the other hand, avoid drinks or mints with huge quantities of sugar.

Conclusion:

Dental caries is an oral disease that affects each and every one of us. With demineralization of the tooth surface and getting off the process up to the dentin, the enamel cracks and the dental cavity appears. The early symptoms of caries can are discovered at the dentist with examination and x-ray. The dentist will detect them and prevent from further demineralization. Schedule your FREE checkup at our dental office, in order to prevent tooth damage or cure it.

The post What is dental caries and how to prevent it? appeared first on Dental Care Macedonia.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening helps to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth, making them whiter. This procedure is the most popular cosmetic dental treatment, which improves the look of the teeth.

This treatment is not one-time treatment because it will need to be repeated from time to time, so the bright color of the teeth can be maintained.

The outer layer of the tooth is called enamel or protective layer of the tooth, which is the first layer that changes color for different reasons. The color of the tooth is created by the reflection of light on the enamel in combination with the dentin, which is under it. As the enamel is thinner, allows more of the dentin to be seen and with that, the color of the teeth becomes yellow.

Source: www.padentalwellness.com

 Every day the enamel is picking up stains. The most common reasons for teeth to get discolored (yellow) are:

• Smoking
• Drinking dark-colored drink such as coffee, cola, tea and red wine
• Calculus – neglected plaque that is calcified
• Medication
• Exposure to metallic compounds.

Besides the outer factors, the tooth discoloration can be caused by:

• Dental caries
• Dental trauma
• Fluorosis
• Degenerative tooth diseases

Another reason for teeth discoloration is the age of the patient. With aging, the tooth enamel becomes thinner, so the transparency of the dentin is bigger and gives that yellowish look of the teeth. If you are suffering from bruxism (clenching of the teeth,) this can also lead to micro-cracking, which can give the teeth darker color.

How is the teeth whitening procedure done?

Some dental problems can affect on tooth whitening. Cavities need to be treated before starting the cosmetic procedure because the whitening solution can pass through the decayed areas and reach the inner part of the tooth, which can cause damage.

Source: www.sacramento.cbslocal.com

Teeth whitening can be done in the dental office or at home. The procedure in dental office starts with taking picture of your current color of the teeth. That photography will help your dentist make a comparison of the achieved result after the treatment.Afterward, the dentist will take full anamnesis, so that he can be sure what the cause of the teeth discoloration is.

So, the next step is the preparation of the teeth for teeth whitening. The first stage is cleaning the teeth, by removing the film of bacteria, food or other substances between the teeth.

There are two main types of teeth whitening: vital and non-vital whitening. The vital whitening is performed on teeth that are alive (with nerves), and the non-vital which is done on the tooth without nerve.

The most common teeth whitening is the vital one. The vital whitening is performed by using a gel directly on the tooth surface. The gel contains hydrogen peroxide, specialized to be LED light activated for faster bleaching.

Usually, the treatment takes 30 to 60 minutes, and it can be done in 1 visit.

After teeth cleaning, the dentist is applying a substance that covers the gums (gingiva) around the teeth. After the gums are protected, the whitening gel is placed on the teeth. Every gel is activated by a LED light, so the procedure of whitening can take less time and be done only for 1 hour.

Immediately at one at the same time, your teeth can be whiter for up to 12 shades, and you can achieve the Hollywood smile that you always wanted with only 1 dentist visit.

Source: www.dentalguideaustralia.com

If your teeth are badly discolored, the dentist will suggest you continue in-home whitening. For this procedure to be done in your home, he or she will take an impression or your teeth and make a custom mouthpiece that will fit your mouth.

Inside of that mouthpiece, you will apply the whitening gel provided by your dentist, as well as the instructions on how safely and without teeth damaging you can apply and use the gel at home.

Source: www.rjsmithdds.com

As we mentioned earlier, besides the vital whitening there is a non-vital whitening as well.

This type of teeth whitening can be done only at the dental office and the procedure for application of the gel is different than the one with the vital whitening. For non-vital whitening, the gel is applied inside the tooth, in the root of it, because this type of non-vital teeth whitening is made on the inside of the tooth.

If the discoloration is really bad, the whitening gel can be sealed inside your tooth and be covered with temporary filling. After several days, the filling will be removed as well as the gel, when the wanted a whiter shade of the tooth is achieved.

Is it the teeth whitening a one-time treatment?

The teeth whitening is not a one-time treatment. This is due to the return of the stains. For instance, if you are a smoker or consuming a lot of dark drinks (coffee, cola, tea) these stains can return after 2 to 3 months. If you are avoiding these consumable sources, your teeth can stay with the same white shades that you get up to 24 months.

Source: www.the-dental-studio.com

The re-whitening process can be done after this period of 2 years, or if you are satisfied with the current color maybe you can postpone for a year later.

Are there possible risks of the teeth whitening?

Eventually, there are no side effects from the teeth whitening, although some people’s teeth are more sensitive after the treatment. This kind of hyper sensibilization is gone after a few days.

To emphasize, a pregnant woman can’t do teeth whitening because the whitening material can harm the fetus. Further, it is a cosmetic procedure that can be postponed after the labor.

What are the Benefits of the teeth whitening?

The main benefits from the professional teeth whitening are:

• It’s painless.Due to the controlled LED light pointed only on your teeth and the rest (gums) are protected with the gel, patients do not feel a thing.
• It’s safe.At every moment the doctor has full control of the length and the power of the LED light which does not lead to the affection of the tissue.
• It’s effective.The procedure is quick and the results are visible after 24 hours.
• It’s long lasting.The results of the teeth whitening can last up to 2 years.

If you have more questions about the teeth whitening procedure you can contact us and we will answer all your questions.Moreover, if you have already decided to try the cosmetic treatment schedule your appointment today. We are here for you and to make you smile more often!

The post Teeth Whitening appeared first on Dental Care Macedonia.

A few years ago, the only available materials for dental restorations, crowns or bridges was metal or alloy of gold, silver, and platinum. Metal restorations were only satisfying the patient need for filling the hole in the mouth, but with really small aesthetic satisfaction.

IPS Empress® restorations are the latest revolution in the dentistry restorations, with achieving perfect aesthetic results. The imitation of the natural teeth with this material is on very high level, so that, no one can notice patience restorations. And this is the reason why this restoration material became so popular for short time.

This restoration material is used for dental crowns, inlays, onlays and veneers for achieving a natural look.

Source: www.bbc43smartlist13.info

What are the advantages of IPS Empress® crowns?

Up to recently (and still in use), before all-ceramic dental crowns were invented, the only type was the metal based crowns covered with porcelain. Porcelain, as the material has a lot of advantages and represents a trusted restoration, with guaranty lasting up to 100 years. However, as a flaw of the metal-ceramic restorations is the transparency of the metal through the porcelain and presenting a fake look of the whole restoration.

Besides the metal transparency under the porcelain, this type of restoration is made with a metal edge on which the porcelain ends. The visible line is a thin one, only up to 3 mm, but even that is enough for ruining the whole aesthetic moment, especially in the front area.

Introduced in 1991 by Ivoclar Vivadent, IPS Empress® dental crowns were designed to eliminate the metal shadows and dark look of the crown – present characteristics in porcelain metal dental restorations.

Source: www.teethwhitening4youreview.com

The goal of IPS Empress® is improving the aesthetic look of the dental restoration and at the same time providing a long-lasting dental restoration. IPS Empress® is a metal-free restorative material made from a ceramic glass. Without the metal core, IPS Empress® crowns and IPS Empress® veneers are achieving aesthetic look same as the natural one, with imitating all shades and transparency of the natural teeth.

Why choose IPS Empress® restorations?

More than 40 million IPS Empress® restorations are the proof that speaks about the lasting appearance of this metal-free material. The popularity of this system and at the same time the main benefit that separates this material from the rest is the achievement of the aesthetic appearance of the dental restorations. Since the manufacturers allowed IPS Empress® CAD, (already popular metal-free material), nowadays can be additionally processed with CAD/CAM technology for bigger aesthetic achievement.

Source: www.ivoclarvivadent.com

This glass-ceramic material is an extremely homogeneous, material that scatters light naturally and provides a chameleon effect while at the same time provides natural look of the dental restorations.

IPS Empress® is the only material available on the market that thanks to its translucency and lifelike appearance allow 100% natural look, so no one can notice that you have dental restorations.

No matter wich material you decide for, IPS Empress® CAD or IPS Empress® Esthetic press ceramic, you will make the right choice, because both of them are made of the same material that has excellent strength values of 160 Mpa!

IPS Empress® are perfect material for single-tooth restorations such as crowns, veneers, inlays and onlays and allows blending of the dental restoration into the natural environment.

Source: www.ivoclarvivadent.com

Advantages of IPS Empress® restorations are:

• Biocompatibility;
• Highly esthetic restorations;
• Chameleon effect for optimum shade match;
• Proven material with more than 40 million restoration and perfect flexural strength.

For what can be used IPS Empress® material?

The IPS Empress® crown material is used for several types of restorations:

1. IPS Empress® crowns are the most used restorations. When a tooth is badly decayed or after the root canal treatment then a dental crown is required to protect from further damage. IPS Empress® crown is a great choice for teeth replacement in noticeable areas, such as frontal, the area which is the first thing that people notice while smiling.

Source: www.ivoclarvivadent.com

2. IPS Empress® bridges as part of IPS Empress® restorations are a completely natural-looking way to replace more than one missing teeth.  Due to the metal bridges, the metal is highly visible under the porcelain, providing an unnatural look. On the other hand, the IPS Empress® bridges are almost impossible to spot and you’ll have a natural and perfect smile.

3. IPS Empress® inlays or onlays. This type of restoration is used in case of partial dental crowns need. Additionally, they are used to replace the huge dental fillings. Usually, when the tooth structure is not supporting a tooth filling, the inlays and onlays are used as a solution. They require less tooth structure and are long-lasting. Furthermore, the IPS Empress® inlays and onlays are used to replace the old fillings – amalgam fillings and satisfying the aesthetic purposes of the fillings.

4. IPS Empress® veneers are thin ceramic shells that are used for covering cracked or extremely discolored teeth. As well the veneers are having strong enough for correcting the gaps between teeth. The main difference between the crowns and veneers is that that the veneers are covering only the front of the tooth and not whole teeth as the crown, which means less tooth structure is taken down for veneer preparation and placing.

The IPS Empress®restorations are offered and always used as a solution, according to the patient’s dental needs.

Steps in the IPS Empress® procedure

The IPS Empress® restorations (crowns or veneers) are made in the dental laboratory by a dental technician. The first step is tooth preparation, which is going to be performed by your dentist. After the preparation, the dentist will take a sample of the prepared tooth/teeth and it will be sent to the dental laboratory. The IPS Empress® system is providing 12 color shades that you and your dentist can choose from.

Source: www.ivoclarvivadent.com

Usually, the IPS Empress® restorations take two to three weeks to be completed, but this step speeds up with the CAD procedure. In our dental office, you can get your new IPS Empress® for only 3 days.

After the restorations will be returned from the laboratory, the following step includes permanent fixation to your teeth.

All IPS Empress® restorations, crowns or veneers can last more than 15 years with proper care. Don’t forget to provide proper oral hygiene to your new dental restoration, and if it is possible to avoid the food and beverages that are well known to stain teeth.

Conclusion:

The latest innovation IPS Empress® systems for sure have changed the point of aesthetic view for dental restoration. With the chameleon possibility (that is to say imitating the natural teeth in the mouth) this restoration is the best that exist at the moment as dental restoration offered. Highly aesthetic restorations can be achieved with IPS Empress® systems.

The high flexural strength allows using of this types of the restoration besides the frontal area, to be used in the back as well. Adding on this perfect material CAD/CAM technology, the restorations that the patient will get at the end, as a final result are incomparable with the rest of the dental restorations from all points of view.

At our dental office, we have for our patients a special offer that includes 6 IPS Empress® crowns for the lowest price. Check our promotions, and get your new dental restorations with a natural look for only a few days. Contact us if you want to find out more, or you can schedule an appointment and plan your new natural smile!

The post IPS Empress® dental restorations appeared first on Dental Care Macedonia.

Millions of people are suffering from tooth loss, mostly due to tooth decay, periodontal disease or in rare cases injury.

For long period, the only replacement of lost tooth or teeth was bridges or dentures, but today that era is finished and dental implants are the first choice when it comes to tooth replacement.

Dental implants were invented in 1952 by a Swedish orthopedic surgeon named Per-Ingvar Brånemark.

Nowadays, the implants are considered as a standard for replacing a missing tooth.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are representing a replacement for a tooth root, as an option for replacing missing or diseased teeth. They offer comfort and stability and at the same time represent the closest thing to a natural tooth.

Source: www.dentalimplantsfriends.com

The implants have many benefits, and some of them are:

• Look and feel as your own teeth. Their appearance since their innovation till today was improved so much that now they are perfectly fusing with the jaw bone while making a permanent connection; same as a natural
• Improved speaking. We all are familiar with the problem with pronunciation after some dental restorations. With the dental implants the most critic restoration – dentures is solved perfectly. The denture is attached directly to the implants, which usually are mini implants (improved implants), that are not allowing slipping off the denture, and that enables you to speak in the same manner as with your own teeth.
• Because the implants are connected directly to your jaw bone, the process of eating is the same as with natural teeth. With the dental implants, you can chew with confidence and at the same time without fear that any moment they will detach or fall from your mouth.
• The dental implants are bringing back the self-esteem and will return your lost smile immediately! Furthermore, the comfort is improved, so you will not feel the restorations in your mouth as artificial.
• The oral health is improved as well because the dental implants do not require reducing of other teeth, so this way your own teeth are not even touched and the oral hygiene can be kept easily.
• Implants are made of titanium, which is long lasting material. So if you decide to have implants, you made the right choice because the durability is granted! With good oral hygiene, they can stay in your mouth for a lifetime!

Source: www.mageedentalcare.co.uk

So to sum it up, dental implants are artificial replacements for natural tooth roots. They can be used in the lower and the upper jaw as well.

The benefits from them are remarkable and they cannot even be compared with the conventional way of dental replacements such as bridges or dentures.

How do the Dental Implants work?

The implants are fused into the jawbone, and at the same time, they are providing the most stable support for artificial teeth. All dental restorations placed on implants will not slip or move because they are fixed in the jaw. This characteristic is really important while eating or speaking.

The majority of the people are having problems with the adjustment of new crowns, bridges or dentures. That problem while using implants as the anchor is not existing. For the conventional way of one tooth replacement requires making a bridge that needs to be attached to healthy teeth that need to be prepared, so they can hold the bridge and while replacing the missing tooth. The advantage of the implants is that there is no need of preparation of healthy teeth in the mouth because the implant goes directly into the jawbone as root replacement and on top, the crown is placed.

Source: www.prestigeperio.com

Some requirements need to be satisfied before even thinking about placing implants. The main requirement is having healthy gums. Without possession of healthy gum, the implants can’t be placed into your mouth. Adequate quantity of jawbone that can support the implant is the second requirement that is “must” patient to possess so the dental implant can fuse in a proper way to the bone and not be a loose one.

When it comes to the type of placement of implants, two types of implants are considered to be safe for applying into patients, and they have a different way of placement. Endosteal implants are the first type which is safe for positioning into patients, and they are surgically implanted into the bone. Subperiosteal implants are consist of a metal frame that goes just below the gum tissue, as well they are implanted by the oral surgeon, and just the drilling into the bone is less.

Source: www.pinterest.com

The newest innovation that belongs to the endosteal placement of the implants are the mini dental implants.

The mini dental implants have the same structure as the regular ones only that are smaller. The size of the regular implant is 3.4 to 5.8 mm wide while the mini implants are with 1.8 to 3.3. mm diameter and long 10 to 15 mm. By reducing the size of the new mini implants the benefits that come with the implants are not lost. More importantly, the size reduction really benefits the implant procedure. as well the required bone for the position of dental implants is reduced, so in almost every patient the mini implants can be placed.

Source: www.pinterest.com

The best part about the mini implants is that they can be installed in only one visit with local anesthesia and none sutures.

Placing the dental implants

The placement of the implants can be done by an oral surgeon, periodontist or a general dentist that has training with implant placement. Depending on the type of the implant, they can be placed in only one visit (mini implants), or the conventional one, which takes few visits to the dentist. While placing the implants, there are few steps that need to be followed by every dentist.

As we mentioned before, there is a criterion that every patient needs to fulfill. Most of the people are good candidates for implants. Enough jawbone and healthy gust is just one criterion for dental implant placement. The implants are not recommended for smokers, people with autoimmune diseases, people that are undergoing a radiotherapy and people that have uncontrolled diabetes.

The first step after arriving at the dental office is checking the oral structures in the mouth. A dental professional will do a full examination of the current oral condition and at the same time, you will get an answer wheatear you are a suitable patient for implants. This step can speed up with sending full mouth x-ray to your dentist, so he or she can check the bone structure that you are possessing, and will give you a straight answer if you are suitable to get implants or not.

The implants are used for replacing of missed tooth that was extracted because of decay or was infected with the periodontal disease, so they needed to be extracted. However, the implants can be positioned at the same time after tooth extraction. However, if you have infection into your bones, the procedure of dental implanting needs to be postponed for several months.

For the patients that don’t have enough bone for supporting the implant, it is possible to build up bone into the area where the implant needs to be positioned. This procedure is called bone grafting, and after it is done the patient needs to wait from 4 to 8 months before implants placement.

The second step is placing the implants. Most of them can be placed in a two-step process. Some implants can be placed in just one visit.

The two-step procedure, as the name says, is done in 2 visits.  For this procedure, you need to take antibiotics and painkillers before the procedure. The dentist will apply local anesthesia. Or the patients can be fully sedated if they wish to do so.

For placing the implant the dentist will do small cut (incision) in your gums to expose the bone. After that, the dentist will drill a hole into the bone and place the implant into it. After implant placement, an x-ray will be taken, so the dentist can see the position of the position of the implant. After confirmation, that the implant is in the right place, the gum will be stitched. The time required for the dental implant usually takes 1 hour for 1 implant.

Source: www.vimeo.com

 After the procedure, the patient can feel small pain, so painkillers and antibiotics will be prescribed from the dentist. You need to follow the instruction given by the dentist, such as:

• Don’t spit, suck and NO SMOKING! All these can cause blood clots and slow the healing
• Only soft food needs to be eaten, not to injure the gums
• You should not clean the implant area, but the rest of the tooth and mouth should be cleaned normally. You can use antibacterial rinse for cleaning implant area.

After 7 to 10 days the stitches need to be removed. After placing the implant, it takes few months for the healing of the jaw. Usually, the implants stay hidden under the gum.

The second procedure, after the healing of the gum, is in covering the implants, with a small cut under anesthesia. The protective screw will be replaced with metal healing cap, on which the dental crown will be placed. When the implant is uncovered, the next that comes is just placing the dental crown, or if is planned, dentures that need to be placed on top of the implants.

The good news is that the traditional implants are not the only option available. Mini dental implants are the biggest boom that changed the conventional implants. The time required for positioning the mini dental implants is only one visit.

The size of the mini implants, as we mentioned before, is half of the traditional one, which means less bone loss and less drilling.

The placement procedure for mini implants is totally different from the traditional. They can be placed into the jawbone in one day – one visit to the dentist. If the positioning of the implants is planned for caring dentures than usually 4 implants are positioned in the lower jaw (mandibula).

Source: www.doctorspiller.com

First, with the assistance of diagnostic tools, the dentist marks the locations for placing the implants. After marking follows the drilling of small holes into the tissue. After the holes are created, the implants are positioned with drivers and wrenches.

Once the implants are placed, immediately can be loaded with the denture, because the healing process of the new mini implants is incomparable shorter than the one while placing traditional implants.

Source: www.intechopen.com

Mini dental implants can be placed by a general dentist because they require a minimally invasive procedure that doesn’t obligate just oral surgeon to place the implants. While many patients so far weren’t good candidates for implants because of the non-adequate bone, that problem with the mini implants is solved. It’s simple, for smaller implants the required bone is lower. So every patient that wasn’t good candidate for the conventional implants now is matching one for the mini implants.

How to care for your dental implants?

The cleaning of the implants should be performed with a medium toothbrush, and the brushing should be regular (morning and in the evening). Don’t forget to clean the teeth and the construction of the implant with interdental brush and bridge and implant floss. Antibacterial liquid should be used on a daily basis, twice a day.

Source: www.youtube.com

Conclusion:

The dental implants are the unique prosthetic replacement which gives the patient the same feeling as having a natural tooth. The bone integration of the implant is the main reason that gives the natural tooth feeling. Chewing, as well as talking with the implant, is done in the same manner as is with the natural ones; without any difference or limitation.

The new mini implant has changed the conventional one that requires a lot of time for healing. Getting a lost tooth, and a crown, or getting all new denture in few days is a reality now.

Dental Care Macedonia for their offers to their patients a perfect package that includes 4 mini implants and acrylic removable prosthetic for best price worldwide. Check our latest promotions and bring back your lost teeth in 3 to 5 days. Schedule your appointment TODAY and bring back your smile in just a few days!

The post Dental Implants appeared first on Dental Care Macedonia.

Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing in Dentistry (CAD/CAM) is the advanced technique that is being largely used.The main difference at this new technique is that a computer technology is being used to help design and manufacture different types of dental restoration, such us: crowns, veneers, inlays or inlays, bridges, dental implant restoration, and even orthodontic appliances.

The main characteristic, that populated so much the CAD/CAM technique, is that it allows production of aesthetic, perfect fitting prosthetic dental restorations in no time. Short time production of well fitting restoration is one huge difference from the conventional dentistry. With CAD/CAM, the restorations can be produced and placed in the patient mouth, all in one day.

All CAD CAM systems consist of:

1. Digital scanner that transforms geometry into digital data that is processed by a computer
2. Software that processes the scanned data and produces a data for the fabrication of the dental product
3. A production machine that transforms the data set into the final product.

Source: www.dentalplanet.com

Depending on the location of the components of the CAD/CAM systems in dentistry, there are three types of production: chairside, laboratory and centralized fabrication in a production center.

The most used one is the chairside type. The digital instrument is an intra-oral camera, which is replacing the conventional impression.This type of technique is saving time. Instead of spending time taking an impression and sending it to the laboratory, that step is done in the dental office. One of the benefits of this system is the software that is extremely precise, as well as it is producing a three-dimensional reconstruction of the needed dental restoration.

This sophisticated machine is composed of a scanner, design software and processing device. When it comes to the type of scanner, it can be optical and mechanical. In any case, this scanner is the main thing that produces the well-fit restoration, without the need for corrections later. The scanner is measuring three-dimensional jaw and tooth structures, and transform them into digital data set, so the patient can see it in the dental office, how will it look in his/her mouth.

Source: www.sirona.ca

The second component of the designed software is programmed by the manufacturer to design a variety of dental restoration. That is to say, any dental restoration that is dental restoration that is required can be planned with this software. CAD CAM can construct as well as design crowns, bridges, partial dentures frameworks. This software can also help you design full anatomical crowns, inlays, and telescopic crowns.

The third component of this software is the processing device. This device is doing the “miracle”, that means the construction data produced with the CAD software is converted into a real object with the CAM-processing. This software is processing the inside and the outside of the dental restoration.

Source: www.bu.edu

In a point of view of the materials that are used for processing by CAD/CAM, we can see that there is a variety of them. With CAD/CAM normally can be processed metals, resin materials, silica-based ceramics, infiltration ceramics and oxide high-performance ceramics.

All of these materials have their benefits as well as flaws. The main flaw of the metals is the “metal” look under the crown, or if the titanium is chosen as material there is a high price that needs to be paid for.

The resin material is the one that is used as a framework for temporary prostheses, or temporary crowns. They don’t belong in the category of materials that are used for long-term dental restoration.

Silica-based ceramics are the best materials for achieving the natural look of the tooth. Full anatomical crowns with perfect translucent characteristics can be achieved by using this material, it results in a natural look of the teeth.

Oxide high-performance ceramics is the newest innovation that recently became a huge bum. In this group of ceramics belong 3 types of materials:

• Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃)
• Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO₂) and
• Magnesium Aluminate(MgAl₂O₄)

All them are used in different type of restoration, mainly their use is divided by the age of the patient. For example, the magnesium aluminate is the highest translucent material from all oxide ceramics, and this type of material is recommended to be used in case of young patients.

Being the most used material from this group and the best at the same time is the zirconium. Zirconium dioxide is a high-performance oxide ceramics with excellent mechanical characteristics. Compared with other dental materials zirconium has the highest flexural strength and is the toughest material that can resist fracture. The zirconium can be used for every kind of restoration, from crowns, bridges up to denture frameworks.In the zirconium are added three molecules of Y₂O₃ resulting in the stabilization of the structure of the material and preventing cracks in the ceramics.

Source: www.brightonimplantclinic.co.uk

In the recent years, the use of CAD/CAM technology has been implemented in almost every dental office. The program displays a 3-D image of the prepared tooth or teeth that are obtained by a digital image. Then the data is sent to a chamber where the dental restoration is carved out of a solid block of ceramics. After the production process is done, the dentist is checking the restoration for size and fit. Often times, further correction is not in need because everything is done with the help of the 3-D scanning and the planning as well at the end production. And as a final step is applying of the restoration in the patient mouth.

The CAD/CAM technology allows the dentist to restore a tooth in one hour only. If compared with the traditional methods the process lasts for weeks. Usually, the technique can be done in-office and there is no need for multiple visits. The best part of this technology is that the restoration can be done in a single appointment. Moreover, you won’t have to repeatedly come for measures, preparation and finally placing the restoration.

The dental bridges are an exception to this rule and they require a second office visit because they need to be created in a laboratory. According to the studies, this type of restoration made from zirconium by using the CAD/CAM technique is less likely to fracture.

Source: www.nobelbiocare.com

If we compare all advantages of the zirconium CAD/CAM restoration with the conventional way of producing, there are plenty of assets such as:

• One visit requirement;
• Less fracturing;
• Long lasting restoration.

So, if you’ve been considering which procedure you should choose for making your new crowns or bridges, without any doubts you should choose the CAD/CAM technique with zirconium material.

Conclusion:

CAD/CAM technology started a new age in dentistry. With this technique is possible to have new teeth in only one visit!  The quality and the long-lasting of the dental restoration is the most important for the patient, and with this type of process that can be guaranteed.

When it comes to the price of this procedure compared with the classic “traditional way” price, there is not such a big difference, at list not anymore.

Check out our offer for 6 zirconium CAD/CAM crowns with the lowest price worldwide! I am sure you will be thrilled!

For any questions about this technique or some other teeth (dental) issues, we are here for you. Feel free to contact us at any time; our team will be more than happy to help you!

The post CAD CAM appeared first on Dental Care Macedonia.

Every dentist is sharing the same opinion that the teeth brushing should start with the existence of the first “milk” tooth in the mouth, and that is the time around 6 months of the baby life.

The public opinion that the “milk” tooth doesn’t count as important in the total oral health is WRONG from two perspectives. The first perspective includes the oral bacteria which are present in the mouth since day one of the baby’s’ life. The milk teeth are the first structure that exists in the mouth on which the bacteria can be attached, and can cause further problems, such as caries or sensitivity on the milk teeth. The other perspective, is that the child is learning the habit of brushing teeth as early is capable of, and that is around the second year of his life, when in his mouth more or less are present all milk teeth.

Source: www.pregnancyandbaby.com

Worldwide Dental Association has figured out that 120 second – 2 minutes is the perfect and long enough time for brushing teeth. Unfortunately, most people are not practicing this 2 minutes time for brushing their teeth. Besides the time of the brushing the teeth, the biggest mistake that people are making while brushing their teeth is the technique that they are using.

Many people are surprised to learn that, for years, they have actually been brushing their teeth the wrong way.

Most of the people are taking the toothbrush out and use a back-and-forth motion, similar to sawing back and forth until they get the feeling that their teeth are clean and slippery.

Many people come with the question why the technique of brushing teeth is so important, and the answer to that question is really logical and easy to be understood.

The majority of the population’s opinion is that harder and faster brushing of the teeth is the most effective, but brushing teeth this way actually promotes unhealthy build up between your teeth and gums. With this technique the accumulation of plaque is bigger and as time goes by can cause problems such us caries, teeth sensitivity up to parodontopathy.

What is the best technique of brushing teeth?

120 seconds is the perfect time for brushing your teeth. Most of the people are brushing their teeth for less time, so for solving this problem use a timer. When it comes to kids and theirs 2 minutes try to entertain them with kids’ songs, which more or less are long 120 seconds. This way they will find brushing teeth funnier.

Source: www.surprisepd.com

As well, the frequency of brushing time is really important. Lots of dentists recommend it after every meal, or at least 3 times a day, but the most important brushing is in the morning, when we are getting rid of the overnight oral bacteria, as well as the one before sleeping.

As it is mentioned before, the most convenient way for all adults to brush their teeth is to look like scrubbing in and out direction, without covering all tooth surfaces while brushing.

Don’t worry if you’ve been one of them. The tooth brushing technique is easily changeable and you can fix it even today.

Most important part when brushing your teeth is to use gentle moves-circulation while performing the whole process. As a starting point you can choose one side of the mouth and start on the outside (buccal) side of the teeth and then move to the last (throat direction) teeth.

The next step is to clean the inner teeth surface; the tongue side starting from the front teeth and going more to the throat positioned one. Clean the upper and the bottom positioned teeth at the same time.

For cleaning the front teeth you need to position your toothbrush angled vertically for easy cleaning. Never forget to clean the chewing surface of the teeth (molars).

Source: www.colgate.com

As a final step, brush your tongue because the bad breath mainly comes from there.

The majority of the people are holding their toothbrush on the wrong way (their fists), and with this type of position is hard to place the toothbrush under proper angle for easy cleaning of the tooth as well as for reaching out all teeth surfaces. Dentist recommendation is to hold the toothbrush in the same way as holding a pencil.

When we speak about the right angle of holding the toothbrush, it is important to hold the toothbrush under 45 degrees angle from your gum (gingiva) line instead holding under 90 degrees angle, so the efficiency of the brushing is increased by 100 percent, and as a final result you will get perfectly extracted plaque from your teeth. Please be careful how hard you brush your teeth, because hard brushing can cause abrasion of the tooth enamel and sensitivity of your teeth.

Source: www.profreshuk.co.uk

Remember: Don’t saw back-and-forth! Use a gentle wiggle motion instead and you’ll save your teeth from damage and sensitivity.

The most important part of the whole process is the type of the toothbrush. Most dental professionals agree that a soft brush that has more than 6000 hairs into it, is the most effective toothbrush for removing plaque and debris from your teeth. Small-headed brushes (the smaller head that can reach the tiniest places between teeth) are also preferable since they can better reach all areas of the mouth, including back teeth that are hard to be reached. For many people, a powered toothbrush is a good alternative. It can do a better job of cleaning teeth, particularly for those who have difficulty brushing or who have limited manual dexterity.

When it comes for toothbrush replacement, how you should know when is the time?

One of the questions that are usually asked is when the toothbrush should be changed. As a recommendation from the worldwide dentists is that the toothbrush should be replaced every 3 to 4 months. If you have been sick consider changing your toothbrush sooner, especially if the toothbrush is stored close to other toothbrushes in your family. Because children often brush more rigorously than adults, they may need their toothbrushes replaced more often, so this 3 to 4 months easily can be half time approximately 1 to 2 months and the kids should get a new toothbrush.

Source: www.rd.com

Storage and maintaining of your toothbrush are also very important. A recommendation from every dentist is: after brushing the teeth, to clean your toothbrush under tap water, cleaning the toothbrush from the saliva and the toothpaste. After the washing of the toothbrush store it on a proper way, a vertical position where will get proper air drying and not keep the bacteria in the wet surrounding.

If you store the toothbrush in a closed container is no good. On this way, the bacteria are enlarging and ruining your toothbrush. So the best way to keep your toothbrush in a perfect condition is on vertical position, without a container. Only while traveling you can have into consideration to use disposable toothbrushes, that are new and without bacteria.

Conclusion:

2 minutes X 2 a day is the perfect time and frequency for teeth brushing. Don’t just scrub your teeth, you can just damage them on that way and at the same time the dental plaque is not completely extracted from your teeth. Use gentle, angle, short moves to brush your teeth, once in the morning and once before going to bed.

As well don’t forget to change every 3 to 4 months your toothbrush and store in on a proper way, keeping clean without bacteria.

If you have more questions about the right way of teeth brushing or some other problems feel free to Contact Us. Don’t forget to smile every day.

The post Best way to brush your teeth appeared first on Dental Care Macedonia.