Understanding Mouth Cancer:

Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. While it may not always be top-of-mind, it is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires attention.

Risk Factors:

Several factors can contribute to the development of mouth cancer. Lifestyle choices such as tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor oral hygiene play a significant role. Additionally, the human papillomavirus (HPV) has been linked to an increased risk of oral cancers.

Recognizing the Symptoms:

Early detection is crucial in the fight against mouth cancer. Being aware of the symptoms can prompt individuals to seek professional help promptly. Some common signs include:

• Persistent mouth ulcers that do not heal
• Unexplained lumps or swellings in the mouth or neck
• Red or white patches on the tongue, gums, or lining of the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or persistent sore throat
• Changes in voice or speech

Preventive Measures:

At our practice, we advocate for preventive healthcare. Taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of mouth cancer can make a significant difference. We encourage patients to:

• Quit tobacco use
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Maintain good oral hygiene practices
• Attend regular dental check-ups for early detection
• Be aware of and vaccinated against HPV

Conclusion:

As November unfolds, let us come together to shine a light on mouth cancer. By understanding the risks, recognizing the symptoms, and taking preventive measures, we can make a significant impact on the fight against mouth cancer. Remember, your oral health matters, and so does spreading the word about Mouth Cancer Awareness Month.

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Pearl is an innovative AI platform, acclaimed for its accuracy and cleared by multiple international regulatory bodies, including the FDA. This groundbreaking technology aids us in reading your dental x-rays with unprecedented precision and confidence. We believe this powerful tool will usher in an even higher level of transparency, objectivity, and accuracy in our practice.

Pearl employs machine learning algorithms trained on the world’s largest collection of expertly annotated dental radiographs, ensuring reliability and accuracy. The software simply serves as an always-on assistant, strengthening our practice’s diagnostic performance and making it easier for you to understand what’s going on in your X-rays.

Pearl is Changing the Future of Our Dental Practice

This remarkable technology is poised to revolutionize the way we interpret dental X-rays, setting a new standard for precision and confidence in our practice. With Pearl AI, we’re not just embracing innovation; we’re redefining what’s possible in dental care, empowering you with the knowledge you need for a healthier, brighter smile.

Difficult Diagnosis Made Easy

Pearl AI simplifies the intricate task of diagnosis by leveraging its vast database of annotated dental radiographs and its advanced machine learning algorithms. These algorithms have been meticulously trained to recognize even the most subtle nuances and irregularities in dental images, allowing for early detection of potential issues that might go unnoticed by the human eye.

Champagne Family Dentistry Providing the Highest Oral Health Care

Our investment in Pearl signifies our dedication to providing you, our valued patients, with the highest level of oral health care. We eagerly invite you to witness the benefits of Pearl firsthand. Schedule an appointment to discover how this AI technology is revolutionizing dental care. Our team is ready and excited to show you how Pearl works and how it contributes to your dental health.

Thank you for entrusting us with your oral healthcare needs. We are always striving to incorporate the most advanced tools to provide you with the best dental care possible. We look forward to seeing you soon and showcasing the exciting advancements we have made.

The post Revolutionizing Dentistry with AI Innovation at Champagne Family Dentistry! first appeared on Champagne Family Dentistry.

Born and raised in Sparks, Nevada, Dr. Andrew Champagne has deep roots in the community he serves. His passion for dentistry led him to earn his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from the Louisville School of Dentistry in 2007. Driven by a genuine love for his profession, Dr. Drew consistently stays at the forefront of dental advancements, ensuring the highest standard of care for his patients.

Dr. Drew is an esteemed member of several dental organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA), Nevada Dental Association, and Northern Nevada Dental Society. These affiliations reflect his professionalism and dedication to providing the most advanced and comprehensive dental treatments while adhering to the highest ethical standards.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Drew values a balanced and fulfilling life. In his free time, he enjoys playing music, hunting, fishing, and cheering for his beloved St. Louis Cardinals. However, his true joy comes from spending quality time with his family and their adorable pet Pug/Yorkie mix.

Dr. Drew Champagne’s victory as the Best Dentist in Northern Nevada is a testament to his exceptional skills, unwavering dedication, and compassionate approach to dentistry. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and grateful to have him as part of our team. If you are seeking a dentist who combines expertise, professionalism, and personalized care, Dr. Drew Champagne is undoubtedly a top choice.

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A Local Success Story:

Born and raised in Sparks, Nevada, Dr. Andrew Champagne has deep roots in the community he serves. His passion for dentistry and desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives led him to pursue a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree at the Louisville School of Dentistry. which he completed in 2007. Driven by a genuine love for his profession, Dr. Drew has consistently demonstrated his commitment to staying at the forefront of dental advancements and providing the highest standard of care to his patients.

Professional Affiliations:

As a testament to his professionalism and dedication, Dr. Drew is an esteemed member of several dental organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA), Nevada Dental Association and Northern Nevada Dental Society. By actively participating in these associations, Dr. Drew stays up-to-date with the latest research, techniques and industry best practice. This enables him to offer the most advanced and comprehensive dental treatments to his patients while adhering to the highest standards of ethical practice.

A Caring and Personal Approach:

While Dr. Drew’s qualifications and professional affiliations speak volumes about his expertise, it is his genuine care and compassion for his patients that truly set him apart. Driven by a desire to create a comfortable and relaxing environment, he ensures that each patient feels at ease throughout their dental experience. By listening attentively to their concerns and addressing any anxieties, Dr. Drew establishes a strong foundation of trust and open communication with his patients.

Beyond Dentistry:

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Drew values a balanced and fulfilling life outside of the dental office. In his free time, he enjoys playing, music, hunting, fishing and cheering for his beloved St. Louis Cardinals. However, his true joy comes from spending quality time with his wife, two children and their adorable pet Pug/Yorkie mix. Dr. Drew’s commitment to nurturing his personal life alongside his professional endeavors showcases his dedication to holistic well-being.

The nomination of Dr. Drew Champagne for the title of Best Dentist in Northern Nevada is a testament to his exceptional skills, unwavering dedication and compassionate approach to dentistry. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and grateful to have him as part of our team. If you are seeking a dentist who combines expertise, professionalism and personalized care, Dr. Drew Champagne is undoubtedly a top choice.

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Setting the Stage: At Champagne Family Dentistry, we understand that a healthy smile goes beyond just dental hygiene. It is a gateway to self-assurance, improved well-being, and a positive outlook on life. Our mission is to provide our valued patients with
exceptional dental services and a personalized experience that goes above and beyond their expectations. Now, with our new patient special, we invite you to experience the transformative power of a dazzling smile.

Introducing Opalescence Go: As part of our dedication to the latest advancements in dental care, Champagne Family Dentistry has partnered with Opalescence, a renowned leader in teeth whitening solutions. Opalescence Go is an innovative, professional-grade tooth whitening kit that promises to brighten your smile in the comfort of your own home.

Why Choose Champagne Family Dentistry? We understand that choosing the right dental practice can be a daunting task. However, at Champagne Family Dentistry, we take immense pride in being a patient-centric practice that prioritizes your comfort,
health, and satisfaction.

Take Advantage of the Special Offer: Now that you know the exceptional care and expertise you can expect from Champagne Family Dentistry, it’s time to seize this incredible opportunity. As a new patient, you will receive a complimentary Opalescence
Go tooth whitening kit, allowing you to enhance your smile from the comfort of your own home. This exclusive offer is our way of saying “thank you” for choosing us as your trusted dental provider.

Schedule your first appointment with Champagne Family Dentistry today and take the first step towards a brighter, more confident you.

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Let’s look at the steps in getting dentures, including consultation, impressions, fitting, adjustments, and follow-up appointments. By working closely with a dentist throughout the process, patients can achieve a comfortable, functional smile that meets their specific needs.

Signs You May Need Dentures

Dentures can effectively address lost or damaged teeth through two different types—removable or implanted. Removable dentures are typically held in place with different methods, from tension to special oral adhesives. Implanted dentures, on the other hand, are a type of major restorative dental procedure, wherein titanium posts are implanted directly into the jawbone to serve as mechanical supports for prosthetic teeth. The type of denture that best fits your specific needs will be decided between you and your dentist, but below are some common signs that you may need dentures:

Tooth loss: Tooth loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including decay, injury, or periodontal disease. If you have lost one or more teeth, dentures may be necessary to restore the appearance and function of your smile.

Difficulty chewing: Missing or damaged teeth can make it difficult to properly chew food, which can lead to digestive problems. If you are experiencing difficulty chewing or have trouble eating certain foods, it may be a sign that you need dentures.

Changes in speech: If you have noticed changes in your speech, such as slurring or difficulty pronouncing certain words, it may be a sign that you need dentures. Missing or damaged teeth can affect the way you speak, and dentures can help to improve your ability to articulate clearly.

Changes in appearance: Over time, tooth loss leads to muscles in the face atrophying due to loss of stimulation. Eventually, this process can even lead to bone loss in the jaw and can cause the affected side of the face to sag or appear sunken. Dentures cannot help regain bone mass, but they can help delay the process and give the impression of regained facial symmetry.

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dentist appointment and ask about the availability of dentures through your clinic, or request a referral to a denture specialist. At the consultation, your dentist will carefully assess your teeth and gums, review your dental history, and advise you on the most appropriate type of dentures for your particular needs.

Stages of Getting Dentures

If you are considering getting dentures, it is important to understand the stages involved in the process. The key stages of getting dentures include:

A Dental Examination

The first step in getting dentures is to schedule a consultation with a dentist who specializes in dentures. During this appointment, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to determine whether removable or implanted dentures will best fit your specific needs. Your dentist will consider factors like the number and placement of missing teeth, the density of the underlying bone, and the health of the remaining teeth. They should also consult you about your preferences and lifestyle habits to ensure you choose an option that is most comfortable for you.

Making the Dentures

Once you and your dentist have determined that dentures are the right solution for you, the next step is to make the dentures. This involves creating a mold of your teeth and gums with a series of impressions, which are then used to make wax models of your bite. After the fit is finalized and any corrections are made, your dentist will send information to a dental lab where the dentures are made. The materials used to create dentures can vary, but they typically consist of a pink plastic base to simulate gum tissue and artificial teeth made of porcelain or acrylic.

Fitting the Dentures

Once the dentures have been created, you will have a fitting appointment with your dentist. The dentist will ensure that the dentures fit properly and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit. This may involve adding or removing material from the dentures or adjusting their shape.

Adapting to Dentures

After you receive your dentures, it may take some time to adjust to wearing them. This can include getting used to the feel of the dentures in your mouth, learning how to eat and speak with them, and properly maintaining them. Your dentist will give you instructions and advice on adapting to your dentures to make the transition as smooth as possible.

It is important to note that the getting dentures process can take several weeks, and multiple appointments with the dentist are necessary. However, the end result can be a set of dentures that look and feel natural, improving your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

How to Take Care of Your Dentures

Dentures are important dental prosthetics and require specific cleaning and care. If you wear dentures, it is important to take proper care of them to ensure their longevity and maintain your oral health. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your dentures:

Clean your dentures daily: Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned daily to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup. Use a soft-bristled brush and a mild denture cleaner to gently clean your dentures, being careful not to damage or scratch them.

Remove your dentures at night: It is important to remove your dentures at night to give your gums and mouth a chance to rest and recover from the constant contact. Soak your dentures in water or a denture cleaning solution overnight to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out. Dried-out dentures are more likely to crack or break.

Brush your gums, tongue, and palate: While you have your dentures out at night, use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean your gums, tongue, and palate. This will help to remove bacteria and keep your mouth healthy.

Handle your dentures with care: Dentures can be fragile, so it is important to handle them with care. Be gentle when cleaning or handling your dentures, and never force them into place or try to adjust them on your own.

Visit your dentist regularly: Even if you wear dentures, it is important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can inspect your dentures for damage or wear, as well as check the health of your gums and mouth.

Avoid certain foods: Some foods can be difficult to chew or may damage your dentures. Avoid very hard or sticky foods, as well as foods that require a lot of chewing, such as tough meats or hard vegetables, toffee or other chewy candies, etc.

Use a denture adhesive: If your dentures are loose or uncomfortable, a denture adhesive may help to keep them in place and improve their fit. Follow the instructions carefully and use only a small amount of adhesive to avoid irritation or discomfort.

Denture care is essential for maintaining your oral health and ensuring the longevity of your prosthesis. Dentures can be expensive and take time to replace if lost or broken, something many patients find very disruptive to their daily routines. By following these tips and visiting your dentist regularly, you can keep your dentures in good condition and enjoy a healthy, confident smile.

Getting dentures can be a life-changing decision for those who are struggling with missing or damaged teeth. By following the appointment steps and stages outlined by your dentist, you can ensure that the process is smooth and successful, and proper care and maintenance of your dentures will ensure their longevity and effectiveness. If you are struggling with missing teeth, Champagne Family Dentistry can help! Contact us today for an appointment and talk to one of our qualified and experienced dentists about getting dentures.

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Dental Cleanings: What Are the Types?

Dental cleanings are some of the most important services a dentist can offer when it comes to the oral health of most patients. Cleanings are usually performed by licensed den₽tal assistants called hygienists, who use different tools and techniques to clean surfaces of the teeth that are hard to reach with home dental care. Routine dental cleanings usually take around 20 minutes, and they should be performed at least once every six months, while dental deep cleanings are usually prescribed by a dentist as needed.

Routine Dental Cleaning

In a routine cleaning, your hygienist’s goal is to remove the bacteria, plaque, and tartar that has accumulated since your last cleaning. Even with daily home care, it’s difficult to clean every surface of your teeth as thoroughly as needed to prevent this kind of buildup. Your hygienist will typically use a few different processes in a routine cleaning, including scraping the teeth with a dental instrument to remove hardened tartar, polishing with a high-powered dental brush and fine-grit toothpaste, and thorough flossing in between the teeth. By the time they are done, your teeth should be smooth, white, and tartar-free.

Deep Teeth Cleaning

Dental deep cleanings, on the other hand, involve cleaning the teeth in between the gums to the roots below the gum line. In patients with an extreme buildup of tartar, bacteria can migrate underneath the gum line (even as deep as the tooth’s root itself), resulting in bacterial infections of the gums. A process called “scaling” is performed by manually scraping away tartar beneath the gum line, as well as the use of an ultrasonic device to remove plaque from the tooth surface.

Routine Dental Cleaning vs Deep Dental Cleaning

While both procedures aim to eliminate tartar buildup, there are some major differences between the two. The major difference is the frequency and necessity of the two. Routine cleanings are part of your normal biannual checkup and mostly consist of the same process every time. They take a little under half an hour and require no further action on your part or your dentist’s. Routine cleanings are not painful and use commonplace dental equipment to perform.

Dental Deep Cleanings are a prescribed procedure that your dentist will perform to treat advanced gum disease, and the methods and equipment used in a deep cleaning should not be performed and used as frequently as a routine cleaning as they are slightly more invasive.

Deep cleanings often require novocaine or other local anesthetics to numb the gums ahead of the procedure, as accessing the surface of the tooth roots with a manual instrument called a scaler can be uncomfortable otherwise. The repeated rubbing of the tooth root in this process removes bacteria that can be inflaming the gum tissues—making them red, swollen, and puffy—and encourages the gum to reattach to the tooth’s surface.

Also, unlike routine cleanings, deep cleanings are intended to produce certain results and may require multiple follow-up appointments to fully accomplish. Finally, routine cleanings are considered preventive dental care to stop the formation of tartar and decay, while deep cleaning is a reactive treatment to ongoing gum and periodontal disease intended to treat symptoms.

Deep Teeth Cleaning Before and After

If you are a candidate for a dental deep cleaning, you might notice symptoms of gum disease that inform your decision to seek treatment, including:

• Redness and swelling of the gumline
• Bleeding during brushing
• Persistent halitosis (bad breath)
• Loosening of the teeth from the gums or retraction of the gum line
• Pus in the gum area

Before the procedure, your dentist will take measurements of the gum socket depth of your teeth with a special tool, a process called a periodontal charting. This may also include the use of X-ray imaging. If your roots are determined to be within the normal range of depth for treatment (between 10 and 3 millimeters), they will proceed with scaling—manually removing the tartar from the teeth. After that, they will polish the teeth with a high-powered brush and fine-grit toothpaste before thoroughly flossing between the teeth.

After your procedure, you should notice markedly less tartar on the visible areas of your teeth, and symptoms of disease and infection should start to recede over the following days and weeks. However, deep cleaning is considered restorative dentistry, and will not prevent the resurgence of gum disease without daily oral hygiene maintenance on your part.

What Type of Dental Cleaning Do You Need?

Your dentist is the only one who can tell you for sure whether or not you require deep teeth cleaning, but if you have trouble removing tartar on your own, have struggled with gum or periodontal disease in the past, or have gone more than 6 months without routine cleaning, you may be a candidate for the procedure.

Gum disease can have serious consequences on your overall oral hygiene, and putting off treatment can be risky. If you are showing symptoms of gum disease, haven’t had a routine cleaning in some time, or have any other questions about dental deep cleaning, Champagne Family Dentistry is here to help. With locations in both Sparks and South Meadows, Champagne Family Dentistry can remove plaque and tartar and keep your smile bright and healthy—no matter where you live in Northern Nevada! Call for an appointment today.

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What Are Dental X-Rays?

Dental X-rays are low-frequency radiation waves sent through your mouth with a dental X-ray machine. When attached to a specialized camera, the radiograph returns an image where softer tissues are more transparent, and the harder, denser materials like teeth and bone are brighter and clearer. The resulting image is an invaluable diagnostic tool that allows dentists to visually inspect the insides of your teeth and keep a permanent record of your oral health over time.

What Problems Can Dental X-Rays Detect?

Dental X-rays are most often used to diagnose cavities—areas of the enamel that are thinner due to decay will show up as “shadows” on the image of the tooth. However, dental X-rays can also be used to monitor oral health and the progression of healing after injury or surgery, identify swelling or inflammation that may indicate an infection or abscess, and determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary by examining impacted wisdom teeth before they erupt or the angle of misaligned teeth.

Types of Dental X-Rays

When sitting for dental X-rays, a patient might experience one or more of the following types:

• Bitewing X-Rays. These examine the crowns of the upper and lower teeth in one section of the mouth and help identify cavities and assess fillings in tough-to-reach areas.
• Occlusal X-Rays. Used to illustrate the arch of the teeth from either the top or bottom jaw.
• Periapical X-Rays. Display a tooth from the crown to the root to examine one or two teeth for root problems, cavities, and issues that affect the surrounding jaw bone.
• Panoramic X-Rays. Show the entire mouth and are often used to track a child’s tooth development to determine if orthodontics is necessary.

How Much Does a Dental X-Ray Cost?

Dental X-Rays are specialized dental tools, but they are also considered medically necessary as part of a typical oral healthcare regimen. As such, most oral radiography is covered by many insurance plans. However, while paying out of pocket, costs can vary.

Related: Patients who are part of Champagne Family Dentistry’s monthly membership plan get specialized pricing on dental X-rays and other preventive dentistry.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

It’s completely natural to wonder about dental X-ray safety, but dental X-ray machines use such low levels of radiation that there have never been any long-term negative effects reported from their use. Many patients will be given lead “bibs” or collars to wear as they have their radiographs done, which absorb errant radiation and protect other bodily tissues except those in the mouth.

Can You Get Dental X-Rays While Pregnant?

Pregnant women are the only exception to the safety of dental X-rays as they should avoid exposure to all radiation. Radiation is harmful to developing fetuses, and women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should tell their dentist before any scheduled X-ray treatments to ensure responsible dental care.

How Often Should You Get Dental X-Rays?

Dental X-rays are part of dentist-recommended preventive care and should be performed once per year. There is no special preparation required for getting dental radiography, and the results will be instant in the case of most dental X-ray machines. If you haven’t had your dental X-rays taken in a while, or have more questions about the process and risks of dental radiography, call Champagne Family Dentistry the premiere family dentist.

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What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants can look different depending on the problems they’re intended to fix. There are similarities between dental implants vs crowns but simply put, implants are dental prosthetics comprised of an artificial root that is implanted into the jaw bone to create a sturdy base for a ceramic or similarly durable artificial tooth that is shaped and color-matched to fit your natural smile. Dental implants can hold a single tooth or an entire row depending on how many anchor points they have in your mouth, and are durable and realistic enough to be a permanent replacement for missing teeth—unlike dentures.

The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene for Teeth Implants

Dental implants are more permanent than dentures, are just about as strong as your natural teeth, and look indistinguishable from your organic smile, but strict care after dental implants have been installed is necessary to keep them properly functioning and to protect the rest of your mouth as well. Following the dental implant care tips can help protect the investment you made in your mouth.

1. Brush and Floss Daily

Just like with your natural teeth, brushing and flossing daily is the cornerstone of good dental implant care. When you eat and drink, bacteria feed on the leftover food in your mouth and produce harmful byproducts. Since dental implants have a porcelain or resin crown, patients with implants don’t have to worry about dental cavities, but not brushing and flossing can still result in gum disease.

Over time, untreated gum disease can worsen and spread to other structures in your mouth, including the bone and tissues in which your prosthetic is implanted. When the underlying anchor becomes too weak, your dental implants could fail, and alternative surgeries might have to be performed. For optimal dental implant care, brush twice per day with a soft, nylon brush and a dentist-approved toothpaste, and floss between all of your teeth—implanted or not—once per day.

2. Avoid Abrasive Products

Certain brushes and even toothpastes can have abrasive aspects to them that can harm dental implants. In fact, even brushing too firmly or rigorously can result in the gradual decay of your implant, causing discoloration or even structural weakness. This can even include avoiding overly hard or crunchy foods, as they can weaken the integrity of your implant over time.

3. Rinse Your Teeth

This goes along with your daily oral hygiene habits, but simply rinsing your mouth out with clean water in between meals can stop food particles from accumulating and forming tartar and plaque. Simple maintenance like this makes cleaning easier over time and goes a long way in your overall dental implant care.

4. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Dental implant surgery takes a toll on your mouth and body, as it can take up to six months for the surgical site to heal fully and for the bone to fully accept the implant. Alcohol (as well as smoking) has been proven to slow the body’s natural healing process and can result in longer healing times and a greater risk of infection and other complications in the meantime.

Related: Check out what to eat after dental implant surgery.

5. Routine Dental Check-Ups

Perhaps one of the easiest and still most important aspects of dental implant care is continuing to see your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings. Dental implants still benefit from the kind of deep cleaning that only a dental professional can perform, and your dentist will be able to check the integrity of the implant for potential adjustments that need to be made, as well as the health of the surrounding tissues.

Are You Ready for Dental Implant Care?

Dental implant care is important to get the most out of your implants and prolong their effectiveness. While it can be a big responsibility, the result is a strong, natural-feeling prosthetic that can restore a damaged and decayed smile. If you have questions about dental implant aftercare, dental implant surgery, or other restorative dentistry in Sparks, NV, call the experts at Champagne Family Dentistry in Sparks, and we’ll be happy to schedule your first appointment!

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What Are Crowns for Teeth?

Crowns for teeth are sometimes called dental “caps,” and they are essentially manufactured teeth that are made to sit on your own natural teeth that have been damaged due to injury or decay. Crowns can be made out of many different materials such as porcelain, gold, various metal alloys, acrylic, and ceramics. They are modeled into the shape of your own natural teeth and artificially colored to match the shade of the rest of your smile—however, this is only possible with certain materials. Crowns for teeth are as strong as your natural teeth and protect the tooth they sit on while allowing you to speak, bite, and chew normally, and in many cases can prevent the need for major restorative dental procedures later on.

What Are the Dental Crown Procedure Steps?

It might take a few visits to your dentist to complete all of the steps in a dental crown procedure. Typically, a patient will need X-rays to examine the extent of the damage beforehand. Sometimes a tooth will be too damaged to physically support a crown, in which case other treatments like a root canal might be necessary first. Once your dentist has established that you are a good candidate for a tooth crown procedure, they can begin with the actual process.

1. Making an Impression

Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to completely numb the gums and tissue around the tooth so you won’t feel a thing except for maybe some pressure while they work. In order for the crown to fit well, the affected tooth needs to be filed down, which your dentist will do with a dental drill.

2. Laboratory Work

With the tooth prepared and a recording of the exact shade of your tooth taken at the same time, a lab will construct the crown out of your desired material and match it to the correct color.

At Champagne Family Dentistry we offer same-day CEREC crowns for the majority of our patients. This is done with a digital scan, and we mill these in the office for same-day delivery, which means we can skip an impression and a lab work and save your time!

3. Cementing the Permanent Crown

Once your dentist is satisfied with the fit and placement of the crown, they will use ultra-strong dental cement to permanently secure the crown in place. It will take a few minutes for the cement to dry in place, and around 24 hours for it to cure completely, so it’s crucial that you don’t do anything that might dislodge or loosen the crown during this time. If the crown becomes loose, call your dentist to have it refitted right away.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Congratulations! You’re dental crown procedure is now complete, and you can enjoy the natural-looking final product for an average of 15 years before it may need to be replaced due to degradation. However, properly maintained and cared-for crowns have almost been known to last for as long as 25-30 years, so the real answer to how long a crown lasts depends on how well you maintain them.

Does a Crowned Tooth Require Any Special Care?

Crowns for teeth require certain care protocols that your dentist will explain before and after your procedure. It’s important that you don’t eat anything crunchy or hard for the first 24-36 hours after your crown has been placed so the dental dement has time to fully harden. You should also avoid excessively hot or cold drinks during this time, and definitely refrain from smoking. Smoking dries out the mouth inhibiting healing and potentially exposing the operation site to harmful bacteria.

After this initial period, you can go back to eating, drinking, and caring for your teeth as you normally would. However, it’s still a good idea to be conscious of your crown in your daily life and avoid too many hard or crunchy foods—especially if your crown covers one of your front teeth, which can be more fragile and susceptible to fracture. It’s natural to experience some sensitivity and discomfort for the first few hours and days after your dental crown procedure, which can be treated with a cold compress and over-the-counter pain medication if necessary. However, if you are experiencing persistent or extreme tooth pain after crown placement, make an appointment with your dentist for a follow-up appointment as you may be experiencing reinfection of the tooth or a traumatized nerve—both of which will require additional treatment.

If you are looking for restorative dentistry in Sparks, Nevada, like a dental crown procedure, filling, or dental implant contact Champagne Family Dentistry today. With over 40 years of experience helping our patients regain their smiles, we’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about crowns for teeth, insurance, or anything else. Call Champagne Dentistry in Sparks and book your first appointment!

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