January 2022 - Lane & Associates

Posted on January 27, 2022

You may have seen the latest Teeth Brightening filter on TikTok and thought, “Hey! That looks great!” But how do we achieve this bright white smile IRL? That’s where we come in!

Step 1: Brush & Floss Your Teeth Regularly

First things first, to achieve a brighter smile, you must be consistently flossing and brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste. We mean it! Flossing on a regular basis is scientifically proven to prevent cavities, gum disease, and improve your oral health. So it makes sense that brushing and flossing on a regular basis would improve the discoloration of yellowed teeth and allow for a more radiant smile.

Step 2: Consult Your Dentist About Teeth Whitening Products

Next, scheduling an appointment with your dentist every 6 months is a necessity. Before you can begin using any type of whitening product, you should consult a professional to see if your teeth can handle this treatment. Some people have more tooth sensitivity to teeth whitening products than others. It’s a great way to confirm that this is the best route for your dental journey.

Your dentist may recommend other cosmetic dentistry options to customize your treatment & achieve these whitening results. These could include porcelain veneers, dental implants, or even cosmetic bonding.

Step 3: Choose A Teeth Whitening Product

If your dentist agrees that teeth whitening is a safe option, the next steps are to weigh the pros and cons of different teeth whitening products or treatments on the market. There are thousands of options to choose from. Whitening strips, whitening gels, whitening toothpaste, and even in-house professional teeth whitening systems like Philips Zoom Teeth Whitening.

Here are some tips on choosing the right teeth whitening product for you:

How sensitive are your teeth to cold? If you answered extremely, you may want to find a teeth whitening system with a lower percentage of hydrogen peroxide or ones that use baking soda or xylitol. It may take longer to whiten your smile but will not be as sensitive to your teeth.
How fast do you want results? If you answered immediately, you will want to ask your dentist for their in-house whitening systems. Typically a Zoom Whitening Treatment at our office takes less than 2 hours and you emerge with a brighter, whiter smile! This is great for those looking for instant gratification or preparing for a big event (wedding, photoshoot, etc).
Do you want to whiten at home? Dental whitening trays and strips are available over-the-counter. However, if you want a more customized fit with less agitation on your gum line, we recommend custom whitening trays created by your dental office.

Finally, select the teeth whitening product that best fits your needs, smile brighter, and never need a TikTok filter again!

We hope this guide to a brighter healthy smile was helpful. If you are in the North Carolina area and searching for a dentist that offers teeth whitening near you, contact Lane & Associates Family Dentistry today! With over 40 locations across NC, nearly 18 dental insurances accepted, and Free Teeth Whitening for qualifying patients, we can help you on your way to a brighter smile today!

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Posted on January 20, 2022January 21, 2022

Thank you for voting!

Lane & Associates has been awarded two prestigious awards in the 2022 Midtown/Cary Living Diamond Awards.

First, Lane & Associates is this year’s Best Dentist in Raleigh (Gold) during the Midtown Magazine Awards. Secondly, LAA is this year’s Best Dentist in Cary (Bronze) during the Cary Living Magazine Awards!

What an incredible achievement, brought to us by our amazing patients, staff, & communities in the Raleigh and Cary area. Thank you for voting for us and placing your dental health in our hands! We are so appreciative and honored to be your dentist!

Want to schedule with our Triangle Area Dentists?

Our award-winning dentists and staff in the Raleigh and Cary area are accepting new patients. Services include a full range of dental care including comprehensive exams, cleanings, cosmetic dentistry, kids dentistry, and more! At Lane & Associates, we love to make you smile! Schedule an appointment with our Raleigh dentists or Cary dentists today!

See more Award Winners

The Midtown Magazine and Cary Living Diamond Awards are held each year for the communities surrounding the Triangle. Readers throughout the Triangle vote for their favorite businesses, services, and venues. See all of the 2022 winners by visiting the Midtown Magazine or Cary Living Diamond Award pages.

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Posted on January 12, 2022

We are so excited to announce that the newest Lane & Associates dental office is NOW OPEN in Downtown Raleigh!

Searching for a dentist in downtown Raleigh? LAA is an award-winning dental company that loves North Carolina and loves to see its patients smile. We are thrilled to expand our reach and allow for a more convenient location for our downtown Raleigh patients!

The new office will be located at 2401 Capital Blvd. and led by our team of Raleigh Dentists. The newly refurbished office boasts a great location to downtown Raleigh and is conveniently located near I-440!

Exciting new things you will find at Lane & Associates:

Full range of dental services for the entire family including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, kid-friendly dentistry, and restorative dentistry.
In-house specialty services include Orthodontics, Oral Surgery, Endodontics, Periodontics, TMJ and Sleep Apnea treatment.
Teledentistry services for online consultations with a certified dentist.
Free Teeth Whitening Program for all qualifying Lane & Associates patients!
Pediatric Dentistry and our Child’s First Dental Visit Program: including a First Dental Visit t-shirt, baby tooth album, tooth fairy toy, and photo of the first visit!
We accept and file with over 18 insurances and offer incredible financing options for patients, including our Lane Advantage plan for those without insurance.

Office hours will be Mondays 8 am to 5 pm, Wednesdays 9 am to 6 pm, and Fridays 9 am to 6 pm. For patients to schedule an appointment, please request an appointment on our website or call our office at (919)827-8980.

Visit our Raleigh Downtown office page to learn more!

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Posted on January 6, 2022January 11, 2022

If you have missing teeth that you would like a natural looking replacement for, then a dental bridge by the expert dentists of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry could be a safe and affordable tooth replacement.

The Lane Dentists are available to serve our valued clients every day. They can tell you whether your remaining teeth are healthy enough to support a bridge, and they can also suggest the kind of bridge that’s best for you.

Dental bridges are a suitable restorative procedure in dentistry, and it has several advantages. The first benefit is that it looks like a real tooth. If you want to know more about the appearance of a dental bridge and how it could be the right option for you then read the complete article!

Do Dental Bridges Look Natural?

According to the well-trained and experienced dentists of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, a dental bridge can accommodate for the loss of real teeth. When a person undergoes dental bridge treatment, the final step of the procedure includes taking the shade of the tooth so that the dental technicians fabricate the dental bridge in a way that it looks natural. The teeth included in the dental bridge are also closely matched with the color of the surrounding teeth.

The Lane Dentists have the expertise in the provision of dental bridges to clients that looks natural and functions like natural teeth. It helps to improve self-esteem and confidence in patients who feel uneasy about their appearance with missing teeth.

Along with giving a natural look the dental bridges can also offer an advantage in maintaining the long-term structure of the mouth. Many patients go with this treatment option because of the way the dental bridges look and feel in the mouth. If you have recently got dental bridges or are planning to get a fixed dental prosthesis then remember that this time to become accustomed to the feel of the dental bridge.

When you get used to the dental bridge, it is hardly noticeable because it becomes a part of the mouth structure. Always keep in mind that the bridge can be cleaned just like natural teeth by brushing with a toothbrush.

Can you Tell if Someone has a Dental Bridge?

Has your dentist advised you for dental bridgework and you’re worried whether the bridges are noticeable or not? The answer to this query is NO. It is very difficult to find out or tell someone whether they have a dental bridge or real teeth. The only way to tell if someone has a dental bridge is if you tell someone about it. That’s one of the best things about a fixed dental bridge, they look natural and they blend right in.

Do Dental Bridges have a Different Color from Natural Teeth?

The dental bridges at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry are made up of different biomaterials such as Zirconia or Ceramic or metal/ceramic combination, or porcelain. Although the quality of the dental biomaterial is different these bridges look similar to the natural teeth color and function the same as real teeth.

These dental bridges blend with the color of natural teeth so if you are worried about the color of the dental bridge then don’t worry your original smile will be maintained by our expert lane Dentists.

Does the Material your Bridge is Made of Affect the Look?

The dental bridge at Lane and Associates Family, Dentistry is made of several different types of material, including gold, alloys, zirconium, or porcelain. The material of the dental bridge does affect the look of the dental bridge in some cases for example zirconium is an expensive material so it looks exactly like an original tooth.

If you are looking for dental teeth replacement options then remember that porcelain is most often the material of choice for a dental bridge because it can be matched to your natural tooth color.

PFM also look like a natural tooth with the longevity of metal and matching the color with the adjacent teeth. Gold is another strongest material for dental bridges with wear-resistant benefits. This is a good choice for patients and these are preferred for the back teeth because the color is too noticeable. Porcelain fused to Zirconia is a common material for dental bridges with undeniable cosmetic advantage.

So if you are looking for a different material for your dental bridge then Lane and Associates Family Dentistry is the right place to know about the best suitable option for you.

Do Dental Bridges Feel Natural?

The answer is yes! Dental Bridges are a cosmetic dentistry procedure used as a perfect alternative to dentures. A dental bridge restores the complete function of teeth in the mouth, particularly in cases when it comes to talking to someone and eating. This kind of teeth replacement option also prevents any further cosmetic problems such as drifting of teeth further apart due to the gap left by the missing teeth.

According to the Lane and Associates cosmetic dentists, the dental bridge should feel nearly as real and comfortable to you as your natural teeth. Many of the patients treated by the Lane Dentists report that their bridges feel even better than the natural teeth did before bridge placement. This occurs in cases when the patients have large fillings or restorations in their teeth.

At Lane and Associates, the dental experts use the same high degree of care when custom-making your bridge. The skilled dentists collaborate closely with our dental laboratory, to ensure the aesthetics are perfect for each patient.

The dental lab affiliated with the Lane and Associates only uses the highest quality materials with advanced technology for the fabrication of prostheses. These dental materials can enunciate the liveliness and translucency found in natural teeth so your new dental bridge will look natural and it will blend in beautifully with your existing teeth. To know more about dental bridges, consult the expert Lane Dentists right away!

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Posted on January 6, 2022January 11, 2022

Dentistry is making huge advancements on a daily basis causing the expense of dental treatment to increase with these advancements. A dental bridge is one of the cosmetic treatment methods people are opting for nowadays. The dental team at the Lane and Associates is making a great difference in people’s lives by restoring their beautiful smiles with dental bridges.

A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth that is fabricated to replace a missing tooth or fill a gap that forms due to the extraction of teeth. According to the Lane DDS, some bridges replace just one tooth, and some bridges replace a set of teeth. The expert dentists at the Lane and Associates will use dental bonding to join the dental bridge to teeth.

Dental bridges are known as one of the most natural appearing replacements for missing teeth. Since the dental bridge gives such a real look the cost of the dental bridge also varies according to the kind of material used in the composition of the dental bridge.

Are Dental Bridges Expensive?

The cost of a dental bridge is determined by the time consumption of the procedure and the material used in the fabrication. The cost of dental bridges depending on a factory:

Location
Anesthetic if required
Number of teeth needed to fill the gap

The placement of the Dental bridges is an affordable tooth replacement option, and if you have dental insurance the costs reduce significantly. The cost of the bridges varies between $300 and $1,000 to replace a single tooth. The cost varies according to the material of the bridge. For example you must pay more for an all-porcelain bridge than for a metal or porcelain-fused bridge.

If your dentist recommends a cantilever bridge or plans for extensive work on your remaining teeth to support the bridge, always remember that in such cases your costs may be higher.

How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost Without Insurance?

Did you know that if you have no insurance, you will be accountable for paying the full cost of the dental bridge plus the cost for other treatment that is required along with the dental bridge? During the treatment of dental bridges, the cost includes the required X-rays before the procedure, and after the procedure and possibly additional treatments. The additional treatment may include addressing dental issues such as gum problems or dental caries.

If the patient chooses the option of a dental implant-supported bridge without the coverage of insurance, then the patient will be responsible to pay all the charges. If your dentist finds that you need extra dental bridges, that will be your financial responsibility without insurance as well.

Does Insurance Cover a Dental Bridge?

If you are thinking about getting a fixed prosthesis then having insurance will save you tons of money. The dental bridges are covered with insurance; however, you can consult with our dentists at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry regarding details of the treatment plan and insurance coverage.

Some insurance plans have changed their eligibility and excluded pre-existing conditions. The insurance policy that you have may also require a waiting period of up to one year.

Before opting the dental treatment, you must have a complete understanding of insurance coverage so that you are assured of receiving the most affordable option for your dental bridge.

If you or your loved one is looking for restorative dental treatment here is good news! The cost of bridges will be substantially less with insurance coverage. Insurance can cover up to 50% of dental bridges. Lane and Associates Family Dentistry can help you to understand your financial responsibility with insurance. All you need to do is consult with our dentists or get in contact with your insurance provider to confirm the maximum limits and copays of the insurance.

Do Different Types of Dental Bridges Cost More than Others?

The cost of different types of dental bridges varies from each other. It is estimated to range from $1,500 to $5,000; it completely depends on the type of dental bridge you select. Following are some of the costs of the dental bridge:

$2,000 – $5,000 are the charges for a traditional dental bridge. It has a pontic and a crown for each abutment tooth.
$1,500 and $2,500 is the cost for Maryland teeth bridges with one pontic.
$2000 to $2,700 will have the range for a cantilever bridge.
$5,000 – $15,000 is the cost for an implant-supported bridge, a bridge with two dental implants spanning three or four teeth.

This can be affordable when you have dental insurance as it will help pay for tooth bridges and other specific dental treatment options.

What Causes the Price to Go Up for Dental Bridges?

Before pursuing dental bridges, it is vital to know about the different factors that can affect dental bridge cost. Following are some of the factors that should be kept in mind while getting dental bridgework done.

Number of Teeth That Require Replacing
Materials Used for the Dental Bridges, including zirconia, all-ceramic, or porcelain-fused-to-metal. The type of material you choose can impact the amount you will need to pay.
The dental crown and traditional bridges fabrication method can also impact the price of a dental bridge.
Type of Dental Bridges: Several different types of dental bridges are available such as Maryland bridges, Cantilever bridges, Implant-supported bridges.

When you have an idea about all the above-mentioned factors you can easily make the right decision about your oral health along with your dentist at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry.

Are Bridges Cheaper than Implants?

Yes, Dental Bridges usually cost less than dental implants. If a dental bridge is properly cleaned with a toothbrush and rinsing it can stay for a lifetime. Our Lane DDS will make sure that you’ll have a lasting smile with our durable and natural-looking bridges.

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Posted on January 6, 2022January 13, 2022

Are you advised to get dental implants or dental bridges to replace your missing teeth? If yes, then you should know different parts of dental implants and dental bridges. The expert dental professionals of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry guide their patients about the most suitable treatment option to replace their teeth. Read the complete article to have thorough knowledge about a dental abutment and different queries about it.

What is a Dental Abutment Tooth?

The Lane Dentists are known as the best skilled dental personnel in town. According to the expert dentist, a dental abutment joins two or more elements that are utilized in restorative dentistry. In the case of a dental bridge, the abutment teeth are the two adjacent teeth that hold the bridge, or the teeth that support a partial denture.

In the case of dental implants, the abutments are used to join the bridge or other tooth replacements to the fixture that is inserted in the jawbone. The abutment teeth or other abutments provide a base for the functional restoration of bite and restoring beautiful smiles.

Is an Abutment the Same as an Implant?

A dental implant is inserted into the jaw in a minor surgical dental procedure. The process of dental implant is slightly different, it requires proper healing, the fusion of the dental implant with the surrounding bone, and then finally the abutment is placed. The healing of the dental implant process takes several months, and, if the patient’s jaw needs support from a bone graft, healing may take longer.

Dental implant Patients are usually provided with a temporary prosthetic tooth to wear while the implant is recovering. This lengthy healing process forms a stable foundation for your prosthetic tooth, which will bear the wear and tear of chewing and other functions. After the bone and implant have fully healed, the dentist uses local anesthesia at the region of the implant and inserts the abutment into the implant.

It is inserted with the help of dental cement or a special kind of screw that is also known as a lag screw. After the complete healing of the surrounding gum tissue, the crown can be joined to the abutment, and the restoration is complete.

The Abutments in the case of the bridge are used to attach a bridge or removable denture to an implant. Certain abutments materials are recommended for different types of restorations, according to the Lane Dentists titanium is often used due to its durability and its biocompatibility.

The other material used is zirconium, which imitates the natural color of the tooth, this is advised in cases if the abutment is highly visible. The dental team at the Lane and Associates Family Dentistry strives to serve our valued clients and if you need any suggestions related to your dental bridge then book your appointment right away with us.

How is a Dental Abutment Inserted?

In the case of a dental implant firstly the dentist waits for the process of osseointegration to complete. After the completion of osseointegration, the dental team at the Lane and Associates performs an additional surgery to place the abutment. The abutment is attached to the area where the crown will eventually attach. It is normally a minor surgery, and the patient is given local anesthesia in an outpatient setting.

Following steps are performed to insert the abutment:

The Lane Dentists reopens the gum to expose the dental implant
The abutment is joined to the dental implant
The gum tissue is then closed around, leaving the abutment exposed

The site of abutment attachment varies according to different dental implant metal posts. This means that the dentist performs an extra surgical step.

The abutment passes through the gum line, and it is visible when the patient opens their mouth, it will be that way until the Lane dentist completes the tooth prosthesis. If you don’t want the abutment to be visible, then there is the option that you can have the abutment placed in a separate appointment.

What Teeth Can You Get An Abutment On?

Selecting the abutment teeth is one of the most imperative steps when planning for a dental bridge. The Lane dentists make a complete treatment plan for the specific clinical situation and confirm the feasibility of a dental bridge.

There are a few requirements for teeth to use as an abutment which include the health of the tooth, it should be treated completely if it has cavity or decay, the teeth should not have a gingival recession or a greater degree of mobility. If the dental bridges are supported by many abutments, then minor mobility of the teeth can be accepted.

You can get a dental bridge on your front teeth although it is not very common.

Some teeth have greater strength, and these teeth are more suitable for use as abutments and these teeth include the molars due to the presence of multiple roots and strong bone. While on the other hand some teeth are proven to be extremely weak abutment teeth which are known as incisors due to the presence of a single root.

At Lane and Associates, the expert dental professionals examine your mouth and make a perfect treatment plan so that your smile can be restored to good health.

Does Getting an Abutment Hurt?

The abutment is fixed by a dental specialist at Lane and Associates and in this procedure, the dentists make a small cut in the gum area to fix the abutment. This dental procedure is less invasive and less painful than the process of the implantation procedure.

To fix the abutment, the surgeon will reopen the gum only to expose the dental implant. The specialist will attach the abutment and then close the gum tissue around it. It will not hurt the patient because in most cases anesthesia is given to the patients, although some discomfort may occur after numbing wears off.

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Posted on January 6, 2022January 11, 2022

Dental bridges at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry are recommended by expert dentists and crafted by skilled dental technicians. Traditionally, dental bridges are fabricated from gold or metal alloys. There are a few reasons to fabricate the dental bridges from these materials and the first reason is the longevity of the material.

Dental bridges are one of the best treatment options provided by Lane’s cosmetic dentists to restore pearly smiles. Did you know that you must take care of the dental bridge just like your natural teeth? Yes, you read it right! These dental restorations can last forever if given proper care. Dental bridges are restorations that are known for offering both strength and aesthetics.

With the advancements in dentistry, the materials and technologies also improve, however, the secret for the longevity of restorations is proper maintenance. If the dental bridge is not brushed and Plaque and bacteria are accumulated there, then this can result in halitosis or dental disease to the abutments.

According to the dentists of the Lane and Associates, if oral hygiene is not maintained, the teeth under the dental bridge can suffer from tooth cavities and gum disease. Always remember that this might result in loss of the abutment teeth and the dental bridge.

How to Clean a Dental Bridge

There are the following techniques that are advised by the dentists of Lane and Associates Family, Dentistry for cleaning around and under a bridge.

Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive paste to clean the dental crown or dental bridge properly
Floss once daily with a water flosser and don’t forget to rinse with a fluoridated mouthwash
Use a Waterpik to clean your dental bridge and avoid the accumulation of plaque around the teeth and the bridge
Avoid bad habits like opening packages with your teeth and biting on hairpins
Visit your dentist at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry regularly

Can You Use Dental Floss on a Dental Bridge?

A piece of floss is used to clean the interdental spaces in teeth and a dental bridge is a joint restorative device, so floss cannot pass through between the teeth within the bridge from the top. Thus, it is evident that you cannot floss between the bridge using regular floss.

According to expert dentists at Lane and Associates, It’s best to continue to clean under the bridge with a piece of super floss, a floss threader, or an interdental brush. A water pick is another best option that you can use.

Should You Use Mouthwash With a Dental Bridge?

Lane instructs patients to rinse their mouth once a day with fluoride or antibacterial mouthwash. Using a mouthwash will help you complete the smile-cleaning job, this also helps in maintaining good oral health while keeping the bridge free from gum disease and tooth decay.

The dental bridge functions to provide strength to teeth and it is vital to take adequate care of the bridge to ensure the gum line is in an optimal state. The accumulation of bacteria or plaque can be controlled by using mouthwash.

If you are at a higher risk of cavities or gum disease while wearing the dental bridge then this is the perfect option for you.

How to Clean Under a Fixed Bridge?

This is true that Dental work like bridges and crowns can be hard to keep clean. According to most dental teams like Lane dentists, a Water Flosser is designed to clean around and below all types of dental work and restorations.

Another agent that is used to clean the plaque around all types of dental work is called a plaque seeker. A plaque seeker is known as a more effective way of cleaning under a bridge than dental floss for improving gum health, the Plaque Seeker Tip is designed to use pulsating water. This cleaning aid has bristles that function to remove the stubborn plaque from the bridge surface.

Can Food Get Stuck Under a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is also known as a “floating” prosthetic tooth. It is connected to two dental crowns on either side. Since there’s a space below the prosthetic tooth, it’s easy for food to get impacted under or around a bridge.

If you want to maintain the health of the dental bridge then It’s important to get regular check-ups by Lane Dentists to make sure that your dental bridge is working well. To remove the food debris from the dental bridge, it’s helpful to carry interdental brushes and/or floss threaders with you, or use a Waterpik at home. If you can’t get home right away, then you can also simply rinse with water several times after a meal.

Does a Waterpik Work with Dental Bridges?

Have you ever used a Waterpik? It is one of the effective ways to keep your mouth healthy! Dental work like bridges and crowns can be difficult to keep clean. Waterpik is also called a Water Flosser that is designed to clean around all types of dental work and restorations including the dental bridges.

Dental floss can clean the interproximal areas, but it cannot clean the areas under the dental bridges. For that purpose it is important to use something like a Waterpik. It helps to clean under the bridge and around crowns where microbes and food can get impacted.

At Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, our team emphasizes how important it is to properly care for the natural teeth and dental bridges alike. The maintenance routine should be incorporated into your lifestyle so that we never forget that we need to brush and floss our teeth. The dental team at LaneDDS are here to educate patients and provide the best dental treatment for dental bridges. If you want to get an idea about how to clean under a dental bridge practically, then we can help you maintain a healthy mouth.

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Posted on January 6, 2022January 11, 2022

Are you looking for a solution to replace one or several missing teeth? If you are located in North Carolina, Lane and Associates Family Dentistry has several cosmetic dentists that specialize in dental bridges.

Dental bridges can be the perfect solution for you to replace any missing teeth, restoring your smile. Lane DDS has offices all over the state of NC that specialize in cosmetic dentistry.

There are several different types of dental bridges that we can provide. Each patient is different and you will need to see one of our specialists to determine which kind of dental bridge is best for you.

Cantilever Dental Bridge

A cantilever dental bridge may be a solution for you if you are missing a tooth located right next to a premolar. This type of bridge uses a strong and healthy tooth next to the gap in your teeth to anchor the false tooth in place.

This kind of dental bridge is referred to as a cantilever bridge because of how it is suspended in place via one anchor tooth. Typical dental bridges use the adjacent tooth on either side of the missing tooth to hold the false tooth in place. The cantilever bridge is used in special situations. Your dentist will determine whether or not you need this type of dental bridge.

Maryland Dental Bridge

A Maryland dental bridge is a solution that you may be able to utilize for a missing tooth. A Maryland dental bridge can be used to replace teeth that cannot be replaced by a traditional dental bridge. This type of bridge is used when adjacent teeth are missing.

If you are located in NC, contact Lane and Associates Family Dentistry for a consultation.

Temporary Dental Bridge

As the name suggests, a temporary bridge is used in place of a permanent bridge. In order to make your permanent bridge look natural, the dentist must obtain a mold of all your teeth to design the dental bridge. This will allow for a perfect and natural appearance of your teeth.

Once the dentist has obtained the mold of your teeth, you will be given a temporary solution to the gap in your smile. The dental bridge must be made in a lab, so you will not receive your permanent bridge on the same day that you visit the dentist for the first time.

To help you feel better about your smile, the dentist will give you a replacement for your tooth that is held in with temporary cement. Once your permanent bridge is fabricated, you will return to the dentist who will replace the temporary bridge for the permanent one.

Front Teeth Bridges

If you are missing one of your front teeth, a dental bridge could be a replacement solution. Since there is not as much stress on your front teeth as others when chewing and biting down, it may be suitable to have a front tooth bridge.

Your dentist should be the one to determine what type of cosmetic dental procedure that you should receive to replace a front tooth. Visit Lane DDS of North Carolina to consult with one of our cosmetic dentists. We will get you the solution that you need here at Lane Family Dentistry.

Dental Bridge Hygiene

In order to make your dental bridge last for years to come, it is vital that you take excellent care of your teeth. You should brush your new dental bridge as if it were your original tooth. Make sure to also floss and use mouthwash as much as possible to prevent decay and bacteria from remaining in your mouth.

There are several foods that you should also avoid eating with a dental bridge in place. Anything that is too hard or sticky may cause damage to your dental bridge or even cause it to come loose.

Dental Bridge Solution in North Carolina

If you are in need of a cosmetic dental bridge, consult with the Lane DDS team today! Our specialist will take care of your needs and offer you a solution to a missing tooth. If you need a procedure like this done, we have over 30 office locations across North Carolina. Our offices are located in Major cities like Raleigh, Greenville, Cary, Winston-Salem, and many other major locations. Contact us today with any questions you may have about dental bridges using the contact form below.

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Posted on January 6, 2022January 11, 2022

Healthy teeth are an incredibly important part of our lives, Lane DDS is striving to help people regain their pretty smiles. Do you have a gap in your smile? No need to fear! There are a multitude of ways the dental professionals of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry use to restore your pretty smile!

Dental bridges are one of the most reliable ways to replace missing teeth, and a cantilever bridge is one of our experts’ recommendations.

What is a Cantilever Dental Bridge?

A cantilever bridge is a different kind of bridge as compared to the other dental bridges; the bridge is anchored on one strong tooth adjacent to the missing tooth. This bridgework option is used when there is only one adjacent tooth to support the bridge. This bridge is made of either ceramic and metal or entirely of ceramic that replaces the anterior missing teeth.

How Does a Cantilever Bridge Work?

The cantilever bridge works similarly to a traditional bridge, but there is one difference that the pontic in a cantilever dental bridge is fixed by a dental crown that is cemented to only one abutment tooth. For a cantilever bridge, Lane DDS only needs one natural tooth next to the missing tooth space.

A cantilever bridge works perfectly in cases where the Pontic is not receiving a great deal of stress i.e. The premolar region.

How Long Does a Cantilever Dental Bridge Last?

Did you know that a cantilever bridge requires care for it just like any dental restoration? It is imperative to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing teeth twice daily and flossing once daily to make a dental bridge last. The health of the natural teeth is important to maintain a cantilever bridge.

If proper care is provided to the cantilever bridge, it can be a very useful and effective option to replace a missing tooth.

Typically, cantilever dental bridges last about 5 – 7 years. The average longevity depends on the type of material used to make the bridge as well as your personal ambition of taking care of your oral hygiene.

The Advantages of Cantilever Bridges

The main advantages of a cantilever bridge are as follows:

They are less invasive than the other treatment options.
Cantilever bridges are reversible.
Cantilever bridges are often used in the front of the mouth and look just like natural teeth.
An affordable alternative to other kinds of bridges.
These types of bridges have high durability if taken good care of.
Cantilever bridges have less chance of decay in the adjacent teeth.
They are easy to fit in the mouth and are also easy to clean.

The disadvantages of a cantilever bridge are as follows:

If the patients do not have healthy teeth and healthy gums, then those patients are not good candidates for cantilever bridges.
A cantilever bridge can fail if the bridges are not attached to strong teeth.
Damage may occur to the cantilever bridge if not taken care of.

In What Cases do Dentists Recommend a Cantilever Dental Bridge?

Cantilever bridges are recommended by Lane DDS in cases such as:

This treatment option is indicated for certain clinical situations when there are no teeth on both sides of the missing teeth.
If the missing teeth are adjacent to the anterior part of the mouth where a tooth is present.

This teeth replacement option is not suitable in the posterior teeth due to too much pressure caused while biting down and chewing food. It is always a great idea to visit your dental specialist to decide the best teeth restoration option.

Which Teeth Can You Get One On?

There are two clinical situations when these restorations may be recommended for teeth:

When it comes to dental treatment, it is sometimes not suitable to prepare a tooth located in a visible part of the anterior teeth.
In the cases when the first upper premolar is missing and the canine at the front end of the space is healthy and undamaged. The expert dental team for obvious aesthetic reasons leaves this tooth untouched.
In this situation, the expert dentists along with the highly experienced dental technicians design a cantilever bridge with the second premolar and the first molar as abutments.

There are many treatment options to restore a single tooth such as a dental implant but, understandably, the cost plays a vital role in the selection of dental treatment options. Along with the cost, a customized treatment plan is also important for treatment success and good oral health.

If you would like to know whether you are a suitable candidate for a cantilever dental bridge, schedule a consultation and meet our dental experts at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry. Our Lane DDS team is prepared to serve along with the team of well-qualified dental technicians and advanced dental technology is always prepared to serve our valued clients!

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Posted on January 5, 2022January 11, 2022

Are you aware of dental bridges? If not, this might be the best article to read for a complete understanding of front teeth dental bridges. According to the expert dentists of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, a dental bridge is a long-lasting restoration that replaces missing teeth in your mouth.

Front Teeth Dental Bridges

Did you know that Front teeth play a significant role in the smile crafting of a person? If the front bridge is not perfect and aesthetically maintained, a person may have lowered confidence in their smile. Front teeth dental bridges can be an excellent choice of treatment in such cases. In most cases, it can restore the smile and thereby help in rebuilding self-esteem.

Various types of dental bridges are as follow:

Traditional Dental bridge
Cantilever bridge
Maryland Bridge

Implant-supported Dental bridge:

There are many reasons a person can go for a front dental bridge at the Lane and Associates Family Dentistry.

When a front tooth had trauma or infection.
When the anterior teeth have abrasion or erosion.
Discoloration or chip of the front teeth because of any reason.
The gap between the front teeth.
The improper shape of the teeth.

It is always important to choose material for the bridgework. The front bridge requires a durable, aesthetically well, and appropriate dental bridge.

Is a dental bridge a good procedure for front teeth?

The anterior teeth require the best restorative teeth options to gain the perfect smile. Since the front teeth are typically not under as much pressure as the back teeth, patients may have a few different options including a dental bridge.

The procedure for the front teeth dental bridge starts from dental assessment. The assessment includes the complete intra-oral checkup of the patient to find out whether a dental bridge is the best option.

Lane DDS will examine the teeth and take X-rays of the jaw to gain a full understanding of the situation and make the best-informed decision.

In the first appointment at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, the dentist prepares the teeth and places a temporary front teeth bridge to cover teeth until the permanent bridge is ready.

At the final appointment, a permanent bridge is cemented on the prepped teeth. A dental bridge for the front teeth is a good choice but aftercare of the bridge is equally important. Follow up and aftercare of the dental bridge will ensure that the patient knows what to expect for their new dental bridge.

For this reason, Lane DDS takes time to explain the essentials of the dental bridge, including the recommended oral care and other dental advice.

How many front teeth can be on a dental bridge?

A restorative dental bridge can be used to replace one to four missing teeth anywhere from the mouth. The replacement of teeth depends on the patient’s needs and the location of missing teeth. However, in the anterior portion of the mouth most commonly two to four teeth are replaced with a dental bridge. There are a few factors that play a significant role in the placement of a dental bridge at the front teeth such as:

The front portion of the mouth should have enough teeth to connect with dental crowns.
The anchoring teeth must be in good health and shape. If the supporting teeth are not healthy it can increase the risk of bridge failure or making the dental bridge loose.
One of the important factors that should be kept in mind while choosing a dental bridge for the front teeth is the replacement of more than three teeth. The stability of a dental bridge is affected if a greater number of teeth are replaced.

According to the expert dentist of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, a dental bridge can replace multiple missing teeth, but it may be risky, and the patient must be in perfect health for it to work appropriately.

How long do front teeth bridges last?

The front teeth bridges can last for five to fifteen years and potentially even longer. Remember, if you have a dental bridge on your front teeth then good oral hygiene and regular check-ups are a must.

Are front teeth Bridges more/less expensive than other kinds?

Front teeth dental bridges are one of the best treatment options in dentistry. Dental bridges are generally cheaper than implants and some other treatment options. The good news is insurance is more likely to cover at least some of the cost. The prices can vary depending on:

The type of bridge you’re receiving
The material used
The extensiveness of the procedure
Where you live

If you want to know more about front teeth bridges, then consult our specialists right away at the Lane and Associates Family Dentistry and get maximum benefit.

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