Sinus Lift Surgery: Everything You Need to Know

If you are planning to get dental implants but do not have enough bone in your upper jaw to support them, your dentist may recommend a sinus lift. Dental implants need a certain amount of bone to be successful, and a sinus lift can create the space needed for the implants to be securely placed. 

At Silver Oaks Dental Clinic we understand that many people have a lot of questions about what a sinus lift is, and how this falls into any dental implant preparation, which is why we’ve created this easy to understand guide on all you need to know about sinus lift surgery. 

Sinus Lift Surgery Procedure

Sinus Lift Surgery Procedure

Understanding Sinus Lift Surgery

Sinus lift surgery, also known as sinus augmentation, is a specialised dental procedure designed to increase the bone volume in the upper jaw. This procedure is often necessary for patients who require dental implants but lack sufficient bone height in the upper jaw due to sinus expansion.

Why Sinus Lift Surgery is Essential for Dental Implants

Before dental implants can be successfully placed in the upper jaw, there must be adequate bone volume to support the implant. However, the maxillary sinuses, located above the upper teeth, can expand over time, reducing the available bone for implant placement. Sinus lift surgery addresses this issue by lifting the sinus membrane and grafting bone material into the space created, thereby creating a stable foundation for dental implants.

The Sinus Lift Procedure

  • Preparation: Before the sinus lift procedure, a comprehensive dental examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays or CT scans, are conducted to assess the bone density and sinus anatomy.
  • Surgical technique: During the procedure, an incision is made into the gum tissue to access the underlying bone. The osseodensification technique is employed using specialised burs designed to compact the bone rather than remove it. This technique aids in gently lifting the sinus membrane while preserving and enhancing bone density. After the sinus membrane is elevated, bone graft material is placed into the sinus cavity. The incision is then sutured closed, initiating the healing process.
  • Immediate implant placement: One significant advantage of the osseodensification technique is that it often allows for the immediate placement of dental implants on the same day as the sinus lift procedure. The increased primary stability provided by the compacted bone can support immediate implant placement, reducing the overall treatment time.
  • Recovery: Following sinus lift surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which can typically be managed with pain medication and cold compresses.

Benefits of Sinus Lift Surgery

There are many benefits to undergoing sinus lift surgery, some of which include:

  • Enables successful placement of dental implants in the upper jaw, even in cases where there is significant bone loss.
  • Restores and enhances bone volume and density, improving the long-term stability and longevity of dental implants.
  • Allows for immediate implant placement in many cases, reducing overall treatment time.
  • Enhances facial aesthetics by supporting natural-looking tooth replacements.
  • Restores proper oral function, including chewing and speaking, for improved quality of life.

Prerequisites for Sinus Lift Surgery

Before undergoing sinus lift surgery, it’s essential to determine if you are a suitable candidate. Prerequisites may include:

  • Sufficient sinus height: Patients with insufficient bone height in the upper jaw may benefit from sinus lift surgery to create a suitable environment for dental implant placement.
  • Overall oral health: Good oral hygiene is essential for successful sinus lift surgery and implant integration.
  • Medical history: Patients should disclose any underlying medical conditions, allergies, or medications to their dental surgeon to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Sinus Lift Costs

While sinus lift surgery is often an investment in long-term oral health and quality of life, financial considerations may vary for each individual. Our team at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic is committed to providing transparent pricing and exploring financing options to make treatment accessible for our patients.

Additional Considerations

In addition to the prerequisites and considerations mentioned above, patients may have concerns about the duration of the procedure and potential outcomes. Sinus lift surgery typically takes about one to two hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the case and the amount of bone augmentation required. 

Managing Expectations

It’s essential for patients to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of sinus lift surgery. While the procedure can significantly enhance the success of dental implants and improve facial aesthetics, it may not be suitable for everyone. 

Following an initial assessment, your dentist will let you know if you are a suitable candidate or continue to provide alternative options for your consideration.

Alternative Treatment Options

In some cases, patients may explore alternative treatment options if sinus lift surgery is not feasible or desirable. These options may include mini dental implants, or All-on-4 implant-supported dentures, which can provide stable tooth replacements without the need for extensive bone augmentation. 

Long-Term Maintenance

After undergoing sinus lift surgery and receiving dental implants, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups to ensure the long-term success of your implants. Proper care, including brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, can help prevent complications such as peri-implantitis and implant failure. It’s important to commit to regular check-ups every six months to maintain your new smile.

Research and Innovation

Advancements in dental technology and surgical techniques continue to improve the outcomes of sinus lift surgery and implant dentistry. The osseodensification process is one such innovation that enhances bone density and implant stability, often allowing for immediate implant placement. From computer-guided implant placement to innovative bone grafting materials, these advancements have made treatment more predictable, efficient, and comfortable for patients. Our team stay abreast of the latest developments in the field to ensure that our patients receive the highest standard of care available.

If you’re considering dental implants but lack sufficient bone volume in the upper jaw, consult with our expert team at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic for personalised treatment recommendations and exceptional care.

Sinus Lift FAQs

Q: Is sinus lift surgery painful?

A: While patients may experience some discomfort during the recovery period, pain during the procedure is minimised with local anesthesia and sedation.

Q: How long does the healing process take?

A: Healing time varies for each patient but typically ranges from four to nine months before dental implants can be considered.

Q: Are there any risks or complications associated with sinus lift surgery?

A: As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, and sinusitis. However, these risks are rare, and our team takes every precaution to minimise them.

Q: Will I be able to resume normal activities after sinus lift surgery?

A: Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days following surgery, although strenuous exercise and certain dietary restrictions may be advised during the initial healing period.

Q: How long do dental implants last after sinus lift surgery?

A: With proper care and maintenance, dental implants placed after sinus lift surgery can last a lifetime, providing a durable and natural-looking tooth replacement solution.

 

What is Injection Moulding?

The injection moulding technique (IMT) involves injecting a low-viscosity resin composite in a pressurized, transparent silicone index made from a diagnostic wax-up, aiming to replicate an already performed mock-up and an approved tooth form arrangement.

Resin is natural-looking, long-lasting, and very affordable compared to other tooth-coloured materials. Since very little or no tooth structure is reduced, resin procedures are very conservative, but often the dentist must rely on freehand build-ups to get to the final shape.

The shape and form of your teeth are almost more important than the shade. Even with the perfect shade match, if the shape and form are not 100% correct, symmetry and harmony will be lacking.

Getting the shape wrong especially if exact symmetry is required for aesthetic makeovers on front teeth, relying on a free-hand technique is not always the best option. With RiT we first do a 2D design (Digital Smile Design), then a 3D design, and finally we can now transfer this 3D design to a mock-up in the mouth. This allows for almost exact copying and makes these cases more predictable than freehand.

 

(Mockup Image of Injection moulding)

 

How does this work?

With RiT we first do a 2D design (Digital Smile Design) where we make use of the latest design software to create the perfect smile design for your face and smile.  Most often teeth need to be made longer to give a more youthful appearance.

 

If the 2D design is approved by the patient, we then transfer this to a 3D design to 3D print the new teeth.

The 3D-printed teeth represent the new smile, and this now needs to be transferred to the patient’s mouth to do a mock-up of the new smile.

This silicon stent was then fitted in the patient’s mouth and the volume difference now represents the additive part or new shape that was planned in the 2D stage. This allows for almost exact copying of the 3D printed models and makes these cases more predictable than freehand.

Smile makeovers with Injection Moulding

With the Resin Injection Technique, we can now help patients add length, change the shape or align their teeth to the planned and newly designed smile.

One good application is treating traditional tooth wear due to grinding, erosion or trauma to reverse such wear and replace the lost enamel with the latest flowable resins. Most patients need some form of tooth lengthening to reverse the effects of tooth wear and add years back to their smile.

 

  • Before Picture

  • After Picture of Injection Moulding

(Before and After photos of one of our patients that did Injection Moulding treatment at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic procedure done by Dr. Craig Inch.)

 

 Is this cost-effective?

Injection moulding is much more cost-effective than doing porcelain veneers. The duration for the veneers is much longer than Injection moulding and the veneers are much stronger than the resin. The result is very similar to veneers. But like everything, nothing lasts forever.

But we have invented a treatment to fit our patient’s needs who are working within a strict budget an alternative and un-invasive treatment to accommodate everyone that is running after that Hollywood smile. Unfortunately, Medical aids do not cover any cosmetic dentistry.

Can anyone get composite veneers?

Composite veneers are more focused on the cosmetic side of dentistry. Any patient who is unhappy with the look of their teeth is considered a candidate for Composite veneers. This treatment is not recommended for children under the age of 16 because they are still developing and growing.

How does this change your appearance?

This treatment is life-changing. And has brought so many smiles to our patients. We have testimonials on our website for your convenience to hear from the patients themselves who had this treatment done and how it has changed their lives.

What is the duration of composite bonding?

So, let’s be honest, nothing lasts forever but everything can have a long duration if taken care of correctly. If you don’t run into any issues with biting hard foods or having any accidents, composite bonding can last anywhere between four to eight years. How long the composite lasts depends on various factors, such as the location of the tooth, the extent of tooth damage, eating habits, and oral hygiene status.

Is this an invasive treatment?

This treatment is the most noninvasive of all. And mainly for esthetic purposes. There are not any existing tooth structures that get cut or damaged in the process.  It is safe and can be reversed at any time or replaced.

 

 

 

Laser Dentistry

Dentistry is constantly evolving to better suit the Digital Era. These advancements make procedures simpler for the dentist but also benefits patients in many ways. One of the latest additions to the digital dental world is the newly developed LiteTouch Laser Machine. This newly developed device takes laser dentistry to a whole new level.

What is Laser Dentistry?

Laser dentistry is the use of lasers to treat various dental issues. Some of which include:

  • Gummy smile’s- the laser can assist with the removal of extra gum tissue that covers too much of tooth structure.
  • The laser is also capable of removing infections and treating cold sores. It can also minimize the healing time and reduce pain.
  • It assists in correcting gum pigmentation.
  • It can remove cosmetic work (veneers, crowns, etc) without damaging it.

How does this benefit you?

  • You will spend lesser time on the dental chair.
  • It makes procedures as simple and painless as possible.
  • There are no scary sounds or vibrations when drilling.
  • It is minimally invasive and extremely precise which means more preservation of healthy gums, tissue & tooth structure.

Capabilities of the LiteTouch Laser:

  • One of its main functions is to assist dentists in quickly removing existing damaged dental prosthetics (old crowns, bridges, veneers etc) in the most minimally invasive way possible.
  • This machine can also assist the dentist in gently removing infected oral tissue- while keeping the healthy surrounding and underlying tissue intact. This means less drilling and more preservation of healthy tissue.
  • The LiteTouch also has an effective bactericidal effect that disinfects the treated and surrounding tissue which assists with a faster recovery.

This incredible machine has recently become a part of our ever-growing digital dental collection at Silver Oaks. We are the first practice in SA to own and make use of this magnificent device. Dr Huson is the key opinion leader for this device in South Africa and we are proud to say that it has proven to be extremely effective during all our procedures.

Traditional Braces vs Clear Aligners

People often get confused when choosing between traditional braces and aligners. As much as this can be a personal choice- it can also be case dependent. Here are a few Pro’s and Con’s you should be aware of when choosing between the two.

Traditional Braces

– Pros

  • Can correct any misalignment.
  • It can’t be removed therefore you can’t neglect its usage.

– Cons

  • Uncomfortable/painful.
  • Food/Drink restrictions.
  • Regular dental visits.
  • Difficult to clean.

Clear Aligners

– Pros

  • Your final results are predicted prior to the treatment.
  • Less dentist check-ups.
  • They are almost Invisible.
  • Can be removed.
  • Can be easily cleaned and you can maintain optimal oral care.
  • Pain subsides shortly after fitting every new step.
  • Comfortable to use.
  • No food/drink restrictions- you can take them off and enjoy your meal!
  • It is very often much faster than metal braces when correcting cosmetic alignment of teeth (usually between 3 to 9 months)

– Cons

  • Not all cases are suitable. It cannot correct major overbites/underbites and excessive crowding.
  • It needs to be worn for at least 22 hours a day.
  • Having the freedom to remove it may lead you to not wearing it as often as you should.

Both Traditional Braces and Aligners are effective treatments when it comes to realigning your teeth. A proper assessment with a dentist is the best way to find out which is more suitable for you.

Check out our website to find out more about our Clear Aligners and Adult Orthodontics.

Digital VS Traditional Impressions

In the 21st century with so many new advancements in dental technology, we can truly say that digitally taken impressions have made the biggest difference for many dentists and dental practices. This gives patients a more relaxed and less time consuming treatment at the dentist.

 

The traditional approach

For many patients having dental impressions done can be very unpleasant. Patients with a strong gag reflex struggle with the entire procedure. There’s nothing worse than those three to six painful minutes waiting for the “alginate rubber material” (gooey substances) to set. For many decades traditional impressions were needed for crowns, bridges, veneers, bleaching trays, and not forgetting night guards.traditional impression

Digital impressions using an IOS scanner

Digital impressions are taken with an intraoral scanner (IOS) using optical light technology as its source to scan the soft and hard tissue within the mouth.  The IOS scanner digitally captures clear and highly accurate impressions within seconds. With a digital scanner, patients will not feel uncomfortable and have a gagging reflex or throw up when impressions are being taken.

digital impressions

Benefits of digital impressions

  • Digital impressions avoid the discomfort these traditional impression materials can cause patients, such has gagging or even throwing up.
  • No more awful taste left in your mouth after having impressions taken.
  • Patients save time in chair with their dentist as they do not need to wait for the alginate substance to take form or set.
  • While scanning we can immediately find errors or missed areas.
  • Digital impressions can be stored electronically which contributes to our recordkeeping and the POPI act.
  • Much more accurate than conventional impressions
  • Easy to send to dentists (Specialists around the world)
  • Forms part of a fully digitally integrated dental clinic such as Silver Oaks Dental
  • Integrates fully and immediately into the DSD protocol.

Dental loans by MediFin

In South Africa, many individuals cannot afford private healthcare treatments. Be it a lifesaving operation that is needed or a long-awaited cosmetic procedure, private healthcare is not affordable for everyone.

Paying for healthcare is not easy, especially to low or average-income households. The good news is that Medifin offers medical finance options to patients who require financial aid. Some patients are not able to pay for their treatment due to financial constraints and/or medical aid not covering some of their required and desired cosmetic treatments. MediFin finance offers affordable loans with easy repayment options that are suitable for you as an individual.

How do I apply?

  • Patients will be required to attend an initial consult with a dentist that is accredited to MediFin. This consult will have to be paid by the patient to the dental practice.
  • The dentist will provide you with a quotation for your treatment plan.
  • You, as the patient, are required to submit your quote to Medi fin online https://medifin.co.za/apply-now/ or call them on 086 100 0808 for further assistance.
  • The patient will have to wait for the approval of your loan. Once your application has been accepted by MediFin, they will make payment directly to your dentist within 24 hours.
  • Once payment has been made; your dentists’ dental team will contact you to set up your appointments.

What treatments are covered:

Requirements:

  • A Copy of Your ID
  • Proof of Income
  • 3 Months Bank Statement
  • Proof of Residence
  • A Treatment Quotation from Your Dentist

contact us on 031 202 6584 | silveroaksdentalclinic@gmail.com to book you consult with us and we can assist you with getting MediFin finance to assist with your dental treatment payment.

Same Day Smiles in South Africa

Same day smiles in South Africa are also known as all on 4s or immediate load implants and are completed in a single visit.
Imagine walking into a dental practice in need of major restorative work and walking out a few hours later with a new full set of teeth and a beautiful smile. Sound too good to be true? The good news is, thanks to the ever-evolving digital dental era “teeth in one day “ can now be a reality.

Most patients will have to see their dental specialist in 3 visits.

  • Once for a consultation
  • Once for surgery
  • And final, a follow-up.

The implantation process is completed in a single visit. The dental specialist can achieve a full set of teeth supported by dental implants during this visit.

All on 4

How does Same Day Smiles work?

At your first consult for your same day smile, your dentist will examine your teeth. A CBCT scan will determine if you have sufficient bone density in your jaw to have an implant placed. Using the Digital Smile Design system, your dentist can show you the before and after the transition of your teeth.

If you are an eligible candidate for dental implants your dentist will plan your treatment and provide you with a detailed quotation. Your implant surgery is done using a digitally guided implant placement technique. Each implant is placed at a precise angle to maximize the use of available bone to support and securely fix the dental bridge.

Same day smiles include 4 – 6 implants are placed on the upper jaw and 4 on the lower jaw. The same-day smile will involve the immediate placement of a temporary prosthesis (Dental bridge) onto the implants. The temporary prosthesis will be replaced with a permanent one in about 4 -5 months from the placement of the temporary ones.

same day smile

Am I the right candidate?

  • If you have sufficient bone density along your jawbone and dental arch.
  • You should have healthy gums and be committed to avoiding tobacco products before treatment.

Lower Jaw implant

Silver Oaks is one of the few dental implant clinics in South Africa with the skill and experience to offer same day implants or immediate implants. If you are thinking of having same-day implants call us on 031 202 6584 or email us on silveroaksdentalclinic@gmail.com for assistance.

The Cost of Clear Aligners in South Africa

The cost of Clear Aligners is surprisingly affordable in South Africa. There are many adults who are just not keen on wearing traditional wired braces. Clear aligners are a great alternative as it is a clear and comfortable option for realigning your teeth.

Here are a few benefits:

  • Aligners are practically invisible.
  • Smooth surfaces (no painful metal brackets and wires)
  • Can be removed before eating and brushing teeth.
  • No long or painful dental appointments.
  • Fast and efficient (usage varies between 2 months to 9 months)
  • Before and after teeth movements are digitally simulated. This will allow the orthodontist to show you the transitions from the current state of your teeth to the expected outcome results.
  • The perfect option to “realign” your teeth again if they have gone crooked years after having traditional braces.

clear aligners

Factors that contribute to the price you pay for aligners:

  • The complexity of your case.
  • A Single jaw treatment or both jaws.
  • A refinement stage if you do not wear your aligners correctly.

How much will these clear aligners cost?

The cost of aligners are determined by the complexity of your case. The average cost for clear aligners starts from around R20 000 per jaw and around R45 000 for both jaws. Complex cases are more costly as they may require a refinement phase. Only an orthodontic assessment can determine the cost estimate as well as if you will be eligible for clear aligners.

clear aligner

You can now book an appointment with our experienced team by calling us on 031 202 6584 or emailing us at silveroaksdentalclinic@gmail.com. The Silver Oaks team looks forward to meeting you!

Composite Veneers VS Porcelain Veneers

The availability, affordability, and effectiveness of composite veneers and porcelain veneers make them a highly sought-after treatment. Not sure which option would be best for you? Learn how to choose between them.

Which Option is Best for You?

Patients often ask this question and the only way to know which treatment will be best for your smile is to schedule a consultation with your dentists. Not sure which option would be best for you? Learn how to choose between them.

Composite veneers (dental bonding) are a great option and a good transition to porcelain veneers someday. While porcelain veneers might seem like the perfect fit for anyone that wants to improve their smiles, it isn’t always right for everyone. Composite veneers can quickly and painlessly repair imperfections of your teeth, instantly delivering your perfect smile. Some patients are hesitant to permanently alter the structure of their teeth, so they opt for composite veneers as a conservative alternative.

Dental Bonding

Dental Bonding


Should I Choose Porcelain Veneers or Composite Veneers?

When choosing between porcelain veneers and composite veneers we always give patients as much information as we can so they can make an informed decision that is right for their oral goals and budget.

Cost:
Porcelain veneers are usually cost much more than composite veneers. Finding the right solution for a patient’s needs and budget can be difficult but not impossible. Composite veneers are a more cost-effective treatment when compared to porcelain veneers. Should you have budget constraints but still want to achieve a more aesthetically looking smile.

Application process:
Porcelain veneers require multiple dental visits, try in’s and temps, there’s plenty of planning for treatment, and are manufactured at our onsite laboratory. Composite veneers can be completed in a single visit. Your dentist will match an exact shade of resin and mold and contour the resin before curing it on the tooth to complete the treatment within a single visit.

Appearance:
Both porcelain veneers and composite veneers are made to blend in with the colour of your surrounding teeth. Veneers can change your teeth’s shape appearance, and look completely. While composite veneers can fix dental issues like decayed, chipped, fractured teeth and keep your most natural smile.

Durability:
Porcelain veneers are made for permanence, lasting 10 to 25 years. While they are not invincible, porcelain is more durable. Keeping regular checks can help prolong its life span. Composite veneers are still a strong material that can last you up to 2 -4 years. Keeping regular dental visits can help prolong its life.

Dental Bonding

                                                   Dental Bonding

Book a consult with our team of dental professionals to see which option of dental treatment would suit you best via our contact@silveroaksdentalclinic.co.za | 031 202 6584

Is it safe to whiten your teeth at the beauty salon?

The Dangers Of Teeth Whitening At A Beauty Salon

In recent years, beauty salons have been offering teeth whitening in the form of cosmetic dental treatments. However, there are many reasons why you should NOT have teeth whitening done at a beauty establishment. They often show little regard for the laws surrounding the procedure, and therefore often neglect to offer patients a safe and effective service.

  1. It is illegal to whiten your teeth unless it is performed by a registered dental practitioner.
  2. Because beauty salons arent subject to the same regulatory oversight that dentists offices are, it’s difficult to ensure their treatments are sanitary and safe.
  3. In the event that dental bleaching agents leak onto your gums and into your mouth, this could result in severe burns, blistering, and sensitivity.

The Professional Opinion

There’no way that our practice endorses teeth whitening outside of a dental officeProviding teeth whitening treatments without a dental professional is illegal. A teeth whitening procedure performed by someone who is not qualified can cause serious damage to your mouth and gums. Here are three reasons you should only be treated by dentist for teeth whitening.

  1. Often, hydrogen peroxide is used to whiten teeth. For this substance to be safe for oral consumption, it must be controlled and monitored. Dentists are well trained in adjusting hydrogen peroxide levels to meet your whitening needs. The levels can be adjusted safely without causing any damage to your gums or teeth.
  2. In dental practices, whitening treatments are guaranteed to be safe, effective, and FDA-approved. There are thorough licensing and inspection procedures in the dental industry. Each country has its own dental regulatory board, ours is SADA.
  3.   You can benefit from the experience and expertise of a dentist. Their expertise in examining, understanding, and diagnosing the structure of the mouth provides them with the ability to detect issues, diseases, and infections immediately. Your dentist will be able to advise you on whether teeth whitening is right for you.
  4.   Dental professionals only use dental-grade products (bleach or whitener). To ensure their quality and effectiveness, these products need to be stored according to strict safety protocols. This is done to maintain their potency and their safety. This is why using counterfeit or non-FAD-approved products could result in greater damage to your teeth. Dental-grade whitening products will not be available to non-dental professionals.

Here at Silver Oaks Dental, we use only the best, tried, and tested! POLAR day and night whitening system. Our chairside whitening treatment can go up to 9 shades whiter. This treatment includes a 14-night home kit and laser chair session. For more information about teeth whitening solutions, or to schedule your appointment with us call us on 031 202 6584 or contact@silveroaksdentalclinic.co.za

Teeth Implant Cost in South Africa

What do teeth implants cost in South Africa?

Teeth implants and veneers – what are they, what do teeth implants cost in South Africa and what are the alternatives?
Accidents happen. Decay happens and unfortunately, when it happens in your mouth, you can’t hide it – unless you prefer to look mean in interviews because you never smile or speak with your hand in front of your mouth. Not good options! Dental implants, on the hand, are.

One of the questions most patients want to be answered upfront is: What do teeth implants cost in South Africa? This is a legitimate question. We encourage all our patients to be open and upfront as the cost is one of the factors influencing the type of tooth replacement procedure. It is not an easy question to answer though, as the procedure requires special steps, materials, equipment, and human resources besides just the dental surgeon. Prices start from around R8 000 per implant placement. We will return to the factors that influence what teeth implants cost in South Africa later.

We will also look at another popular treatment at our offices – pearly white veneers that totally transform your smile. At Silver Oaks Dental Clinic, we are have seen an exponential increase in requests for veneers in South Africa, from both local and foreign patients.

What are dental implants?
They are metal holders, posts, or frames that are surgically inserted beneath the gums, into the jawbone. These implants act as replacement ‘roots’ to hold or anchor the new tooth that will be formed. In the long run, the implants fuse to the jawbone. As a result, they provide a much more stable base for a replacement tooth. Dentures and bridges remain good options but for ease of convenience, teeth implants are tops.
Are there any barriers to receiving a dental implant?
Yes, there can be. These barriers are not insurmountable though – they simply mean that there will be more steps to the procedure.

The most important requirement is that a potential tooth implant recipient has a disease-free gum line and a healthy jawbone. If not, a bone graft could be required first. This is certainly one of the factors affecting what teeth implants cost in South Africa. There could be another issue in the form of bone height. This needs to be assessed when a tooth implant in the upper jaw is required.

If the upper jaw is too close to the sinuses, a sinus lift may be required. This is another factor impacting costs.
Other factors affecting what teeth implants cost in South Africa. What else besides a bone graft or sinus lift will typically affect your teeth implant cost in South Africa – or anywhere, really?

Here are the main ones:
1. The number of implants. Implants are usually charged per tooth.
2. The materials being used. Usually, these are titanium or titanium alloy. As a dentist, we have to use biocompatible materials that will be well-received by your jawbone and won’t cause any allergies.
3. X-Rays and other mouth scans. These are performed before we proceed so we can be aware of any potential complications that may arise during surgery. It also helps us assess the bone density and health of your jawbone.
4. Location. If you have your implants done in the most expensive cities in the world, one of the big costs that have to be absorbed is renting office space. Just like with other retailers, these and other costs are factored into the costs of treatment procedures themselves.
5. Your dental surgeon’s experience and qualifications. It is true that you get what you pay for! You wouldn’t want a rookie dental surgeon or dentist not specialized in surgery to operate on your mouth. Yet, unfortunately, that is what some people still opt for as it is ‘cheaper’. In the long run, it is more expensive, as you’ll likely need a surgeon to correct technical issues relating to the implant.
Teeth implant costs at Silver Oaks.

We try to keep costs as affordable as possible, without sacrificing expertise, the comfort of patients, or the quality of the results. Costs are about R8 000 per implant, but again, that is a very generic figure as it depends on the manufacturer you choose. All our manufacturers are internationally recognized and meet European Standards.

Below are some of the examples of dental implant smile makeovers done at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic under Dr. Roy Richard Huson.

Contact us on 031 202 6584 to find out more and about which medical financing options we are affiliated with.

dental implant costs in South Africa

Dental implants abroad - at Silver Oaks, we’re the specialists
Getting veneers in South Africa
Your smile definitely is worth a thousand words – let’s just hope they’re words of admiration and not anything else! When fitting veneers in South Africa, the procedures are exactly the same as overseas. In fact, we pride ourselves on using cutting-edge, approved technology and practices to such an extent that we’ve often innovated with better, newer treatments or procedures long before they’ve become mainstream.

We have built up our leading reputation over many years of study, overseas experience, and the best of local experience. As a result, we take maintaining the good regard for our work very seriously. We push ourselves by subscribing to the philosophy that we are only as good as the last procedure – this means excelling all the time, every time. And it means getting the best veneers in South Africa.

What are veneers?
Veneer treatments fall into the realm of cosmetic dentistry. They are thin white layers of porcelain designed to cover the front of your tooth. Veneers can greatly enhance appearance. Prices for dental veneers start from R12 605  per tooth.

Below are some of the examples of veneer smile makeovers at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic by Dr. Roy Richard Huson.
In what cases are veneers a good option?
We will not be able to offer you veneers if your tooth is damaged too badly. The remaining tooth needs to be sufficiently strong to have a veneer ‘glued’ on.

Veneers in South Africa are for you if:
● Your teeth are stained or discoloured
● Your teeth are ground down (but not too far down)
● Your teeth are chipped or damaged
● Your teeth do not have an even shape around the edges, have craters or bulge
● You have a gap between your teeth – we could then attach veneers that close the gap or align the teeth better.

We use the latest digital technology and have to outsource very little. We’re aware that most of our patients are time-scarce – and if you’re here on dental safari, you want to have enough time to enjoy your safari after all! So typically a veneer procedure takes three visits, but we are able to cut this down, depending on your needs and also the state of your ‘original’ teeth.

Speak to us so we can gladly assess and let you know. Although we are time-aware, we will never sacrifice client safety or the integrity of a procedure. We look forward to welcoming you and seeing you walk away with your new, perfect smile!

Contact us on 031 202 6584 or email contact@silveroaksdentalclinic.co.za to book your appointment.

Digitally Guided Implant Surgery

The Digital And Great Beyond…

Digital dentistry has revolutionized the industry as we know it. From the ability to capture digital intraoral scans to digital smile design and photography we can now develop treatment plans that are accurate and predictable. We at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic have been using digitally guided surgery since the early 2000s.

Digital guided implant surgery is used to correctly position the implant which is vital to the bone, nerve, and other structures within the mouth. Implant placement procedures using a digital guide allow for an extremely accurate placement position of the implant into the bone, compared to a freehand placement. The positioning of an implant is absolutely critical to the success of the treatment. Once an implant has been placed, integration into the bone occurs, for this reason, we have a surgical guide manufactured at our onsite lab which is used to guide the implant into place to reduce the likely hood of an implant failure.

Using a guide means:
*Minimally invasive surgery allows for quicker healing and less downtime.
*Accuracy of placement which means an implant is less likely to fail.
*Reduced procedure time, which means less in chair surgery time.
*Allows us to immediately load a tooth onto the implant if the implant stability (as measured with an ISQ machine) is adequate.

Digital Guide 02

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Is Teeth Whitening Good?

Many people would like their teeth whitened but are afraid of the side effects. So the question we ask is teeth whitening safe? Does teeth bleaching damage enamel?

The results are guaranteed if done by a qualified dentist. According to the American Dental Association, the bleaching ingredient carbamide peroxide is approved according to American standards and is both safe and effective. It won’t damage the enamel of your teeth neither is it cancer causing.

Keep in mind that there are minor side effects. This all depends on the concentration of carbamide peroxide used. If used at 15% at home every night for 14 nights then you should have very little irritation and sensitivity. The in office bleaching on the chair with a laser will cause a little more sensitivity and irritation as a dentist uses higher concentrations of carbamide peroxide which is at 35%. That is why our treatment is a 14-day treatment at 15% carbamide peroxide followed by 35% carbamide peroxide in office bleach.

Teeth Whitening

A common side effect of teeth whitening is tooth sensitivity. That is why we use 15% so that you will get less sensitivity. We find that rubbing some Colgate pro-sensitive or Sensodyne pro-repair on the teeth will help the sensitivity and also if you take a pain killer. This sensitivity usually doesn’t last very long and should subside in one or two day’s time. Another wise thing to ask your dentist if you have very sensitive teeth to give you a high concentration of fluoride several days before starting the teeth bleaching.

The best place to whiten your teeth is at a dentist’s. It is both safe and effective and you can go up to 9 shades whiter. It is the most effective treatment as compared to any other dental treatment. It is not good to get your teeth whitened at spas, cruise ships, and salons. It is only safe at a dentist’s office due to the dentist conducting an exam before or prescribing a teeth whitening treatment. A dentist will make sure there are no broken or decayed teeth.

There are patients that get worried if the teeth whitening bleach will affect their dental amalgam or silver fillings. We have chosen to discontinue dental amalgam and silver fillings as we offer the latest technology. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) assures that it is not a real health issue. Not only is dental amalgam benign in its mercury content, but the bleach will not destroy other dental restorations like crowns and implants. It will also not have any effect on white colour fillings; it might slightly whiten the fillings.

There are many blogs and natural ways to whiten teeth online but through research, you should know that putting strawberry, coconut or lemon paste on your teeth will damage the enamel in the long term. Fruit acid wears away the top enamel making your teeth look whiter underneath in the short term. When enamel is worn away by acid, teeth begin to look worn, old, and discolored.

Call us now to book a dental implant appointment.

What is the best way to replace my missing teeth?

What is the best way to replace my missing teeth is a question we get asked alot.

Missing teeth are unsightly and rather embarrassing especially if you are missing a front tooth or teeth.

Luckily, there are various options in the market to replace your missing teeth. Some are temporary options, others are more cost-effective long-term options.

Dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth.

They are the healthiest option as it stimulates the bones in your jaw and keeps them in place making you look younger and able to live a good quality of life. You can bite and chew your food again. Dental implants imitate your natural teeth preventing speech problems. You can brush your teeth just like you would your natural teeth.

A patient below that visited Silver Oaks Dental Clinic to get dental implants in order to replace his missing teeth.

 

What is the best way to replace my missing teeth

 

The following are various methods in order to replace your missing teeth.

Dentures

Dentures can be a great short-term solution for replacing missing teeth. This option can replace one or more missing teeth. The huge disadvantage is that is can move while talking or eating and this can be incredibly uncomfortable.

You will not be able to bite and chew your food either. You will need to remove them to clean them every day. The longer you wear them the more bone loss you will experience in your jaw. Requiring bone grafting in the long term which will increase costs and make you look over 10 years older if not done.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is an option when there is a missing tooth between two healthy teeth. A bridge is a fixed solution that is cemented and will not come out. You can smile again and chew your food. It also prevents your adjacent teeth from shifting due to a gap from the missing tooth. A bridge requires the teeth surrounding the missing tooth to be cut down to enable them to connect.

The disadvantage is that the adjacent teeth holding the bridge may decay more easily in the long term as it is more susceptible to bacteria entering. Increasing your chances of damaging your originally healthy adjacent teeth.

Dental Implants

The American Dental Association advises that Dental implants are the best option to replace missing teeth. Although initially expensive dental implants work out to be a lot cheaper in the long term. Dentures need to be changed every 5 years increasing the cost over the long term whereas dental implants once done last a lifetime and there is no need for costly bone grafts.

Dental implants prevent bone loss. They stimulate the bones in your jaw keeping them in place making you look younger and able to live a good quality of life as you can bite and chew your food again. Your speech will be back to normal and improved especially if you have missing front teeth. Dental implants imitate your natural teeth, so you are not susceptible to cavities unlike dental bridges. The crown is screwed onto the implant therefore no embarrassing slippage occurs.

Denture wearers are always scared that their teeth might fall out when talking this is not the case with dental implants.

Dental implants are extremely easy to care for as you brush and floss like you would your normal teeth. Dental implant restores your bite force. You can bite and chew your food with the same amount of force you would do your natural teeth. No other option currently has such a solution. Dental implants also support your adjacent teeth and prevent them from shifting or decaying. The advantages outweigh any disadvantages making dental implants the best way to replace missing teeth

Dental implants start from R12 000 per implant placement and can go up to R40 000 per tooth.

Call us now to book a dental implant appointment.

 

When Should I Consider Dental Implants?

When should i consider dental implants? is a question we address in this article. If you have missing or badly decayed teeth, then you should consider getting dental implants. You should also consider getting dental implants if you are currently wearing dentures or a dental bridge.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a surgical fixture placed in the jawbone. Your real tooth has a root. A dental implant is an artificial root that integrates in your jawbone and acts just like your real tooth’s root. A dental crown is then placed on top of the implant.

Dental implants act just like your real teeth in form and function. You can bite and chew your food the same way you do with your natural teeth. The self-confidence that comes with getting dental implants will significantly improve your quality of life. They can last a lifetime if you brush and floss regularly just like you would your natural teeth.

It is especially important to replace the missing tooth with dental implants rather than dentures. Dental implants stimulate the bone in your jaw. If your jawbone is not stimulated by a ‘root’ your jawbone will disintegrate gradually. Making you look years older and affecting your health.

Also, if your tooth is not replaced by a new tooth your surrounding teeth will shift altering the alignment of your bite thereby causing tooth decay and gum disease.

People consider dental implants for the following reasons:

  1. When tooth decay is so severe it cannot be repaired by a dental crown/dental veneer/dental filling.
  2. After a dental trauma such as a car accident or falling.
  3. Those using a dental bridge that is affecting the health of the surrounding teeth causing them discomfort and jawbone deterioration.
  4. A patient who no longer wants to wear dentures
  5. Denture wearers usually switch to dental implants
  6. Your new appearance and your self-worth are another added advantage.

Denture wearers usually switch to dental implants due to the long-term cost savings.

Denture wearers usually switch to dental implants due to the long-term cost savings associated with dental implants and the improved quality of life that dental implants provide.

when should i consider dental implants 3

when should i consider dental implants 4

Being able to bite and chew your food again is a huge advantage with dental implants

Being able to bite and chew your food again, improved speech, laughing without worrying about your denture falling out, never having to clean the dentures by removal and jawbone restoration are one of the main reasons for the switch.

Basically, anyone who is considering or has a dental bridge or denture is a candidate for dental implants..

Dental implant prices start from R12 000 per implant placement and can go up to R40 000 per tooth. Dental implants become cheaper the more you get done. The price is also dependent on the manufacturer that you use. We use world renowned high quality manufacturers.

Call us now or visit our dental implant page.

Chipped, broken, stained and misaligned teeth?

Chipped, broken, stained and misaligned teeth?

Dental veneers might be the answer….

Most of us suffer from imperfections on our teeth such as chipped, cracked, stained, and crooked teeth. At one-point dental veneers were only for movie stars. Now it is available to all.

Dental veneers are the same as natural teeth in form and function. Porcelain veneers try to replicate the look and feel of our natural teeth. You can bite and chew your food as normal and they won’t ever fall out. Porcelain veneers can last a lifetime if you brush and floss regularly (2x a day).

Chipped, broken, stained and misaligned teeth

What are dental veneers?

Veneers are thin layers of composite or porcelain that are placed over the tooth’s surface. Porcelain veneers is the best option of the two as they look natural like your real teeth.

what are dental veneers

What can dental veneers fix?

If your natural tooth or teeth are not severely decayed or missing, then dental veneers or crowns can be a good long-term option. Dental veneers are the only treatment available that can physically change the shape, size and colour of your teeth.

The following are common conditions that can benefit from dental veneers:

  • Broken teeth
  • Chipped teeth
  • Cracked teeth
  • Crooked teeth
  • Small gaps between teeth
  • Discoloured teeth
  • Undesirably large or small teeth for example, correcting a gummy smile

The veneer process takes just 2-3 visits and can be completed in about 2 weeks or less. This is a much shorter time frame than some other dental treatments like orthodontics which could take up to 2 years.

Chipped, broken, stained and misaligned teeth

The above patient Charmaine visited Silver Oaks Dental Clinic for a full smile makeover. She had previously decayed teeth, tooth loss, teeth protrusion and some of her teeth had the old amalgam fillings. Her heart health was at risk due to the state of her teeth.

Dr Huson’s solution for Charmaine’s teeth included dental crowns and dental veneers. Digital Smile Design and the latest technology was used to craft Charmaine’s smile and simulations offered to her to show her what her potential teeth could look like.

Charmaine was extremely happy with the outcome. She was amazed by her new smile and could not stop smiling from ear to ear!

It was such a pleasure to work with Charmaine – she was a delightful lady who enjoyed telling us a new joke at every visit ! This kept us in stitches as we tried to concentrate on our work..

Call us on to book your appointment today or learn more about our dental veneers procedure.

 

What Happens If Your Missing Teeth Are Not Replaced?

What happens if your missing teeth are not replaced? Missing teeth can make you look older, less attractive and increase health issues such as diabetes, cancers, and heart disease.

You are not alone if you have a missing tooth or teeth. Almost half the population in the USA and around the world have missing teeth. By the age of 50 the average American adult has lost 12 permanent teeth according to Harvard Medical School. Tooth loss tends to become more common in middle age.

 

What Happens If Your Missing Tooth Is Not Replaced

bone volume after tooth loss

Really What Happens If Your Missing Teeth Are Not Replaced?

Missing teeth will result to sunken cheeks, which can make you look years older than your actual age. While you can’t necessarily see it, when you have gaps in between your teeth as a result of extraction, your jawbone will begin to shrink.As a result, your cheeks will sag, and creases will form on your face. Dentures may fill in the gaps in your teeth, but they don’t actually address your shrinking jawbone. The only way to arrest the movement is through dental implants.

What problems can missing teeth cause?

Appearance – It is very embarrassing to have missing teeth. It impacts your self-confidence and overall quality of life.

Crooked teeth – When a gap is left open due to your missing tooth the surrounding teeth tend to shift because that missing tooth is no longer keeping the others intact. Teeth can then become crooked or new gaps can appear. Besides a crooked smile a missing tooth can also cause bite problems and joint pain in the long run.

Gum disease and decay – When your teeth shift and become crooked you might not be able to brush and floss all around your teeth properly due to the gaps and crooked teeth. Your surrounding teeth are more likely to decay which could lead to further tooth loss.

Bone loss – One of the biggest loses a missing tooth that is not replaced will give you is bone loss. Making you look years older. Your teeth also support your jaw by stimulating bone growth. When one or more teeth are absent this will cause the jaw to shrink and change its shape and appearance.

Suffer to bite and chew food – you will find it much harder to bite and chew your food once you have missing teeth which will cause you to avoid certain foods. This will have an impact on your nutritional requirements.

Speech problems – If you have front teeth that are missing it could affect the way you speak and make it hard to pronounce certain words. This can impact your social life and communication to your friends and loved ones. This is what happens if your missing teeth are not replaced.

What are the options are there to replace a missing tooth/teeth?

The options are:

  • Dentures
  • Bridges
  • Dental Implants

Dentures and Bridges VS Dental Implants

Dentures and bridges usually replace the crown of your tooth and not the root. If the root of your tooth does not stimulate the bone in your jaw it will lead to a shrinking jaw overtime. Only dental implants can stop your jaw from shrinking as the artificial root (the implant) is still able to stimulate your jawbone. Making you look years younger and more attractive.

What happens if I do not replace a missing tooth with dental implants and use dentures instead?

Dentures need to be removed to be cleaned and dentures need to be changed every 5 years due to the changes in the gum shape from bone loss. Dental implants on the other hand act as natural teeth and are fitted permanently like your natural teeth. You can bite and chew your good as normal and have lovely sparkling teeth that can last a lifetime.

 

What Happens If Your Missing Teeth Are Not Replaced

Above is a recent patient that came in to get dental implants at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic in Durban, South Africa.

When we originally saw Toy she couldn’t chew her food properly and was embarrassed to smile. Her jawbone was shrinking due to the loss of teeth over the years and wearing dentures. We did a full smile makeover to improve her confidence and quality of life which made her look years younger.

Toy had previously worn dentures that did not suit her face structure, age and colour of her skin. The dentures were loose fitting as her jaw bone changed shape over the years due to the loss of bone. Initially we did bone grafting to replace missing bone and then we placed Dental Implants to replace her missing teeth.

By re-adjusting her bite, Toy is now able to chew properly and smile more confidently.

Toy looked many years younger just by adding dental implants. You might ask how is this possible?

Dr Huson has placed in excess 500 Dental Implants and has worked under celebrity dentist Dr Joe Oliver in the Harley Street region of London. You are guaranteed work that is of the highest quality.

Prices for dental implants start at R12 000 per implant placement  and can go up to R40 000 per tooth

Call us to book your appointment today or visit our dental implants page to learn more.

Dental Implants For Repairing Your Smile After Tooth Loss

Dental implants for repairing  your smile after tooth loss is the topic that we discuss below. Dental implants are usually the best option for replacing missing teeth. They are more cost effective than dental bridges and dentures in the long term. They function exactly like your natural teeth.

 

Dental Implants For Repairing The Smile After Tooth Loss 4

 

Tooth Replacement Options

There are several tooth replacement options on the market in order to replace missing or badly decayed teeth. Dental implants for repairing your smile after tooth loss is the best option. It is a more cost effective procedure in the long term and can last a lifetime if you brush and floss like you would your natural teeth. You will be able to bite and chew your food and smile again thereby drastically improving your self confidence.

The following are three methods to tooth replacement:

  • Dental Implants
  • Bridges
  • Dentures

The most desirable option is Dental Implants.

Dental implants for Repairing your smile after tooth loss is the best option

What is a Dental Implant

A Dental Implant is a titanium “screw” which is used to replace the root of a tooth. This enables the dentist to anchor a crown, bridge, or denture in the mouth in the absence of a tooth / teeth.

This has proven to be incredibly useful as patients now have the option of having a fixed prosthesis to replace missing or damaged teeth. This means no longer having to remove your teeth to clean and maintain them. In addition, Dental implants when properly done are the closest replacement to natural teeth you can get.

Once successfully integrated with the surrounding bone, implants have a long‐term potential as natural teeth, if properly taken care of.

Dental Implants can be the most natural way to replace missing teeth. Careful examination and planning must be done prior to any treatment so that an accurate outcome happens. X‐rays and CBCT scans will be needed to see if you have good enough quality and quantity of bone in the area required to place implants.

dental implants Silver Oaks Dental Clinic

 

Fix tooth loss with dental implants

Dental Implants can be added on patients as old as ninety years. What often happens when there are missing teeth is that the jawbone begins to shrink. This is common with denture wearers, and the ridge (which is important for holding the denture) gradually disappears, making wearing a denture so much harder. Dental Implants For Repairing The Smile After Tooth Loss is the best option.

Who are ideal candidates for Dental Implants?

Patients who have one or more missing teeth and who have sufficient bone are eligible for dental implants. If you do not have sufficient bone due to missing teeth for several years, then you will need to undergo a bone graft which is a quick and easy procedure. Dental implants for repairing your smile after tooth loss is the best option as it maintains the bone in your jaw giving you a more youthful appearance. With dentures they do not stimulate your jawbone and so after many years your jawbone shrinks. This is unhealthy health wise and can make you look years older.

You are welcome to talk to Dr Roy Richard-Huson for the best possible options.

Why Should I Get My Dental Implants Done with Silver Oaks Dental Clinic?

  • We offer the highest quality in dentistry – all our implants are internationally recognized and used all over the world. You know you are getting the highest quality in Dental Implants
  • Expert skills – Dr Huson trained under world renowned celebrity dentist Dr Joe Oliver in the Harley Street Region of London. He has placed in excess 500 Implants – all with excellent results
  • A lifetime guarantee on our implants
  • We perform the treatment from start to finish
  • We offer the latest technology – we have an onsite lab and the latest software to perfect your smile.
  • Why would you want to go anywhere else?

Dental implants start from R12 000 per implant placement depending on the manufacturer and the number of dental implants that you get.

Call us to book your appointment today!  Click here to learn more about our dental implant procedure.

COVID-19 has no fighting chance at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic

COVID-19 has no fighting chance at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic.

COVID - 19 has no fighting chance at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic

Silver Oaks Dental Clinic follows stringent COVID-19 safety policies and disinfectant practices

Less than 1% of dentists nationwide have tested positive for COVID-19. This is due to safety policies and disinfectant practices of dental offices. Dental health is important not only for your teeth but also because dental infections can lead to other ailments, including heart disease. I am sure just like us, you are all getting used to the new norm and way of living.

One of the many things most of us have been putting off till after the lockdown is dental appointments. We understand your fears of having to remove your mask and open your mouth outside of your home.

The question is, what if it’s an emergency or a broken tooth, pain, discomfort or an upcoming dental implant appointment?

The good news is that we are now fully operational. 

Our team’s constant sterilization efforts assures that you are completely safe in our environment.

We might take a little longer than usual to get through a normal day with all the Covid 19 protocols in place. Our aim is to keep you as safe as possible while you are here.

The virus mainly travels through your mouth and nose so mouth rinsing with an effective solution is very important.

When you come in to see the doctors, we require you to rinse your mouth with a special mouth rinse that contains iodine. Please inform us if you are allergic to iodine and we will give you an alternative. COVID-19 has no fighting chance at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic.

We all know this virus weakens our immune systems and with a weakened immunity we are more susceptible to gum diseases and gingivitis. Now may be a good time to visit the hygienist for a cleaning.

While staying indoors was fun for some, it also proved to be very difficult for many. If you had been affected negatively by this COVID-19 pandemic our thoughts are with every single one of you during this trying time.

We will take care of all your dental needs safely so there is one less thing for you to worry about.

Click on the video to view our fogging system and see the fun that we are having while #stoppingthespread

COVID – 19 has no fighting chance at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic! 

We are using a special fogging system as part of our promise to keep you safe in this environment. This ensures that every nook and cranny is Covid-free!

We use a special solution in the machine to sterilize the air and this reaches every part of our rooms and equipment. This is done daily so that we can start the next day disease free!

This is just one of the many protocols we use to ensure we are doing what we can to #stopthespread.

Call us to book an appointment today!

 

How To Fix The Gaps Between Your Teeth

We get asked this question often at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic ‘How to fix the gaps between my teeth’.

If the gaps between your teeth are making you feel self-conscious then you might want to try and find ways to fix them. Some procedures are cost effective and less time consuming. We discuss them in this article.

Before we get into the details it is important to understand what causes the gaps between your teeth.

gaps between teeth

Gapped teeth which are also called Diastemas are one of the most common dental issues and can result from several issues.

Disproportionality sized teeth – gaps occur when your teeth are smaller than the size of your jawbone.
Oversized tissue between your front teeth called the Labial Frenum prevents your gap from closing. The tissue gets in between your front teeth and prevents your teeth from fusing together.
Thumb sucking – the sucking motion can force your teeth forward creating a gap.
Gum disease – Gapped teeth can also be caused by gum disease. The infection can cause gums and soft tissues supporting your teeth to become damaged.

How do i fix the gaps between my teeth Doctor?

You will need a thorough analysis by your dentist. He/she will need to take an x-ray and analyse your teeth. Your dentist will then come up with the best solution according to your individual needs.

The three options that are available in order to fix the gap between your teeth are, orthodontic braces, dental veneers and dental implants.

Orthodontic braces might be an option depending on the size of the gap. Many people do not like the look of metal braces and the fact that you must wear them for 2-3 years.

There are two other options that you can discuss with your dentist that is a great alternative to metal braces.

Dental veneers are usually the best option. It is a quick procedure usually 2-3 appointments.
Dental veneers are thin, tooth coloured shells that are attached to the front surface of the teeth to improve the appearance. Porcelain veneers are usually the best quality as they look and feel just like your natural teeth.

If you have exceptionally large gaps, then dental implants could be another option. Chat to your dentist and he will be able to offer the best advice.

gaps between teeth

How To Fix The Gaps Between Your Teeth 2fixing the gaps between your teeth 3A recent patient (above) at Silver Oaks Dental wanted to fix the gaps between her teeth. Her main complaint was that she had gaps, chips and some worn down teeth. They were also stained and discolored.

Patient’s front teeth had a gap in between and made her very shy to smile

She came to us with the hope that Dr Huson could help her regain that confidence she had almost lost growing up.

Veneers came to be the best option to fix Keisha’s smile. Not only did veneers close her gaps but it also straightened and whitened her teeth in few easy steps! Porcelain veneers are resistant to staining and mainly used by Dr Huson because of its high durability.

After a hygienist’s cleaning, we made bleaching trays for her upper and lower jaw to whiten it to her desired shade. She wore this for 14 days at home and came in for an hour laser to enhance and brighten her teeth before we started with the designing.

We used the latest in digital technology to design her teeth called Digital Smile Design

Dr Roy -Richard Huson examined her mouth and face and to determine the right fit size and shape of her veneers. We used Digital Smile Designing (DSD) technology and photographs to design the perfect smile for her. Computer imaging and photographic technology will allowed her to visualise her smile before it is even finished!

We made four upper veneers which closed the gaps instantly. She came in to try on her veneers first so that her friends and family could approve and for her to feel and experience the look before we do the finals.

Once she was happy with it, she came in to cement the finals. Her smile is straight without any gaps, brighter and all the chips and cracks restored.

It did not take Kershia long to get used to her new smile because she instantly loved it! She is incredibly happy with the outcome of her veneers. She feels more confident with her fuller teeth and her friends and family love her new look.

We are very thankful we had the opportunity to make a difference in Kershia’s life.

Call us to improve your smile!