General Dentist in Jacksonville, FL
General Dental Office Near the Town Center
Best General Dentist Near You
Welcome to Point Meadows Dental Spa in Jacksonville, FL, where we take pride in delivering exceptional general dentistry services tailored to your unique needs. Our dedicated team of professionals, including the experienced Dr. Hanna Mularkey and Dr. Sarah Danser, is committed to providing you with the highest standard of dental care in a warm and welcoming environment.
Expert General Dentistry Services
At Point Meadows Dental Spa, we believe that preventive care is the cornerstone of a healthy smile. Our general dentistry services are designed to maintain and enhance your oral health, addressing a wide range of dental concerns. Whether you're seeking routine check-ups, cleanings, or treatment for specific dental issues, our skilled team is here to meet your needs.
Our Comprehensive General Dentistry Services
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Routine Check-ups and Cleanings: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Our general dentists will thoroughly examine your mouth, detect any issues early on, and provide professional cleanings to keep your smile healthy and bright.
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Restorative Dentistry: We offer a range of restorative treatments, including dental fillings, crowns, and bridges, to repair and replace damaged or missing teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics.
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Cosmetic Dentistry: Achieve the smile of your dreams with our cosmetic dentistry services, such as teeth whitening, veneers, and cosmetic bonding, all performed with precision and attention to detail.
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Periodontal (Gum) Care: Healthy gums are crucial for a healthy smile. We provide periodontal care, including gum disease treatment and maintenance, to ensure the longevity of your teeth and gums.
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Oral Health Education: We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge about their oral health. Our team will educate you on proper oral hygiene practices and offer personalized guidance for maintaining your smile's health.
Your Comfort and Care are Our Priorities
At Point Meadows Dental Spa, your comfort and well-being are paramount. Our general dentists, Dr. Hanna Mularkey and Dr. Sarah Danser, are dedicated to providing gentle and patient-centered care. We understand that dental visits can be intimidating, which is why we strive to create a relaxed and stress-free environment to ensure your dental experience is as comfortable as possible.
Schedule Your General Dentistry Appointment
If you're in need of exceptional general dentistry services in Jacksonville, FL, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hanna Mularkey and Dr. Sarah Danser at Point Meadows Dental Spa. Our commitment to your oral health and your overall well-being is unwavering, and we look forward to being your trusted partners in achieving and maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. Your journey to optimal oral health starts here!
Dental Fillings with a General Dentist
A dental filling is used to repair tooth decay, minimal tooth fractures, or otherwise damaged surfaces of the teeth.
We use two different filling materials:
Composite: A mixture of plastic and fine glass particles and last at least five years.
Ceramics: Made of porcelain and last more than seven years.
What is the difference in materials: Composite, Porcelain, or Amalgam? There are a number of pros and cons associated with each.
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Safety: Both Composite and Porcelain materials have the advantage of not containing mercury or other metals that may contribute to sensitivity or toxicity.
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Color: Both Composite and Ceramic/Porcelain will match the color of your teeth.
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Durability: Composite materials often require less tooth preparation and may not weaken the affected tooth as much as a traditional amalgam filling. Amalgam often requires more extensive tooth preparation. Composite materials are also more prone to leak and can, therefore, decay more rapidly than amalgam. Porcelain is more resistant to staining and abrasion, however, it is more brittle than composite and can break.
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Tooth Shaping: All materials require preparation of the affected tooth, but less preparation is usually required for composite or ceramics/porcelain. This means that less healthy tooth structure has to be removed.
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Chair Time: Can be completed in one visit.
Enamel loss is a common component of tooth decay and may result in tooth sensitivity. In many cases, sensitivity caused by enamel loss will be significantly improved or completely eliminated once a filling is placed. But in some cases, depending on the extent of tooth decay or damage, the affected tooth may require additional/alternative procedures, including:
Dental Crowns: Teeth requiring more support may require a dental crown on top of the filling.
Dental Implants & Dental Bridges: Irreparable tooth damage may require a tooth extraction followed by a bridge or implant.
Root Canals: Abscessed, Infected, or nerve damaged teeth may require a root canal procedure.
If you think you might need a dental filling, do not wait. Give our Jacksonville, FL office a call today!
Sealants
Dental sealants are a great way to protect your teeth from cavities and tooth decay. Dental sealants are usually suggested for children and are typically applied after their permanent back molars erupt, typically between ages five and twelve. Adults can also benefit from sealants, particularly if their teeth are more vulnerable. Sealants are applied in a quick office visit at Point Meadows Dentistry and require no recovery time. To learn more about this preventive tool, we invite you to contact our Point Meadows Dental team today (904) 373-4777
Bonding and On-Lays
At Point Meadows Dental Spa, your trusted choice for general dentistry in Jacksonville, we want to shed light on the importance and versatility of dental bonding. Dental bonding is a fundamental procedure that involves the permanent attachment of dental material to your teeth using specialized adhesives and a high-intensity curing light. Whether you're aware of it or not, chances are you've already benefited from dental bonding in one form or another, as it plays a crucial role in various dental treatments offered at our state-of-the-art facility.
Direct Composite Bonding:
One of the essential applications of dental bonding is known as direct composite bonding. In this procedure, our skilled dentists utilize tooth-colored composites, which are crafted to match the natural shade of your teeth. These composite materials are incredibly versatile and are used to address a range of dental concerns, including:
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Filling Cavities: Dental composites are employed to restore teeth affected by cavities, effectively eliminating decay and restoring the tooth's strength and functionality.
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Repairing Chips or Cracks: Bonding materials are used to repair minor chips or cracks in your teeth, restoring their structural integrity and aesthetics.
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Closing Gaps Between Teeth: Dental bonding is a valuable tool for closing unwanted gaps or spaces between teeth, enhancing your smile's harmony.
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Building Up Worn-Down Edges: Over time, the edges of teeth can become worn down due to factors like grinding or natural wear. Composite bonding is used to build up and strengthen these edges, preserving the tooth's health and appearance.
Adhesive Bonding:
Adhesive bonding is another critical facet of dental bonding, typically employed in attaching various dental restorations to a tooth's surface. This process involves the meticulous use of an etchant, an adhesive, a bonding agent, and a high-intensity curing light. Adhesive bonding is particularly valuable for achieving esthetic and porcelain restorations, ensuring that they are securely affixed to the tooth for both functional and cosmetic purposes.
At Point Meadows Dental Spa in Jacksonville, we prioritize the art and science of dental bonding to provide our patients with a wide range of treatment options. Whether it's enhancing your smile's aesthetics, restoring dental health, or ensuring the longevity of your restorations, dental bonding plays a pivotal role in the comprehensive care we deliver.
Our team of skilled and experienced general dentists near you is dedicated to staying at the forefront of dental techniques and technologies to provide you with the best possible care. We invite you to experience the benefits of dental bonding and explore the various ways it can improve your oral health and appearance. If you have any questions or are interested in scheduling a consultation, please don't hesitate to contact Point Meadows Dental Spa. Your journey to a healthier, more radiant smile begins with us.
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Affordable Dental Crowns
Dental crowns, often referred to as "caps," are an invaluable dental restoration that serves multiple functions, preserving, protecting, and restoring the functionality of damaged teeth. At Point Meadows Dental Spa in Jacksonville, we specialize in dental crowns and their diverse applications, ensuring that our patients receive the highest quality of care.
Dental Crown Materials:
Dental crowns are crafted from various materials, each offering distinct advantages to meet your specific needs. The common crown materials include porcelain fused to metal, gold, and all-porcelain crowns. Choosing the right crown material is essential to achieving the best outcome for your oral health and aesthetics. Our dedicated team, led by Dr. Hanna Mularkey and Dr. Danser, will guide you through this decision-making process to ensure the perfect fit for your unique situation.
Versatile Uses of Dental Crowns:
Dental crowns find application in a wide range of scenarios, making them one of the most versatile dental treatments available. Some of the common reasons for using dental crowns include:
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Restoring Teeth After Root Canal Therapy: Following a root canal procedure, a dental crown is often placed to reinforce and protect the treated tooth. This ensures its continued functionality and prevents further infection.
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Anchoring or Attaching Dental Bridges: Dental crowns serve as stable anchors for dental bridges, securing them in place and replacing missing teeth with a natural-looking restoration.
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Completing Implant Restorations: Dental implants are an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth. Crowns are used as the visible and functional part of the implant, providing a lifelike replacement tooth.
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Cosmetic Smile Improvement: Dental crowns can enhance the appearance of your smile by covering teeth with severe stains, discoloration, or cosmetic imperfections, delivering a beautiful and radiant smile.
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Correcting Misshaped Teeth: Teeth that are misshaped or irregular can be transformed with the help of dental crowns. The crown is customized to match the desired shape and size, creating a harmonious and symmetrical smile.
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Strengthening Weak or Cracked Teeth: Teeth weakened by extensive decay or fractures benefit greatly from dental crowns. The crown encases the tooth, providing strength, protection, and preventing further damage.
Your Trusted Dental Crown Experts:
At Point Meadows Dental Spa, we understand the significance of dental crowns in preserving and enhancing your oral health. Our team is committed to providing you with the highest standard of care, personalized to your unique needs. Dr. Zerbinopoulos and our dedicated team are here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you receive the most suitable type of dental crown for your situation.
If you're seeking dental crowns in Jacksonville from trusted general dentists near you, look no further than Point Meadows Dental Spa. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile through expert dental crown procedures. Your dental health and satisfaction are our top priorities, and dental crowns are just one of the many ways we can enhance your smile and overall well-being.
Types of Dental Bridges
At Point Meadows Dental Spa in Jacksonville, our team of expert general dentists near you is dedicated to providing comprehensive dental solutions, including the restorative marvel known as the dental bridge. A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration meticulously designed to replace missing teeth, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits to our patients.
The Role of Dental Bridges:
Dental bridges play a crucial role in restoring your smile's beauty and function, particularly when you're missing one or more teeth in a row. Beyond the obvious advantage of replacing missing teeth, these fixed restorations serve an essential function in maintaining the proper alignment of your remaining teeth and ensuring a harmonious bite.
Benefits of Dental Bridges:
The advantages of dental bridges extend far beyond merely filling the gap left by missing teeth. Here are some key benefits:
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Restored Functionality: Dental bridges enable you to speak, eat, and chew as you normally would, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite foods and communicate with confidence.
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Stress Reduction: By replacing missing teeth, dental bridges reduce the stress placed on the surrounding teeth. This helps prevent issues like shifting or misalignment, preserving the integrity of your smile.
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Facial Restoration: Dental bridges also contribute to the restoration of your facial shape and volume, ensuring a natural and youthful appearance.
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Renewed Confidence: With a dental bridge in place, you can once again enjoy a beautiful, natural-looking smile that boosts your self-esteem and overall well-being.
Types of Fixed Dental Bridges:
There are several types of fixed dental bridges, each catering to specific needs and preferences:
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Conventional Fixed Bridges: These bridges are the most common type and require the professional shaping of the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth or teeth. A crown is placed on each shaped tooth, and an artificial tooth is attached between them, filling the gap seamlessly.
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Cantilever Bridges: Cantilever bridges are recommended when there is only one adjacent tooth available for support. They provide stability and functionality while preserving the appearance of your smile.
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Resin-Bonded Bridges: Also known as Maryland bridges, resin-bonded bridges require less tooth preparation. They are often used for replacing front teeth, providing an aesthetically pleasing solution without extensive alteration of adjacent teeth.
At Point Meadows Dental Spa, we understand the importance of dental bridges in enhancing your quality of life. Our experienced general dentists are skilled in the art of creating custom bridges that seamlessly blend with your natural teeth. We take pride in offering comprehensive solutions to restore your smile's beauty and function.
If you have missing teeth or are considering dental bridges in Jacksonville, don't hesitate to reach out to Point Meadows Dental Spa. We are here to answer your questions, discuss your options, and help you embark on your journey to a healthier, more confident smile. Your complete dental care is our priority, and dental bridges are just one of the many ways we can enhance your oral health and well-being.
Affordable Dentures in Jacksonville, FL
Dentures are artificial teeth that are custom formed to your mouth to replace lost or removed teeth. Dentures can either be full or partial, meaning they can either replace all teeth or just a few. With new technology, you can also get dentures that are permanently retained in your mouth. Regardless of what kind of denture you need, with Point Meadows Dentistry they will be custom designed to fit your mouth and visually matched to your existing teeth.
Type of Dentures:
Full Denture/Conventional Denture
This is a removable prosthetic, typically fabricated after several months from when your natural teeth have been extracted, once the tissues have finished healing. After natural teeth are removed, the gums and jawbone require a period of healing. Waiting for your mouth, jaw, and gums to fully heal helps ensure that conventional dentures will fit properly, with fewer adjustments.
Partial Denture
Partial Dentures replace one or more natural teeth and are ideal for anyone who does not wish to have a dental bridge or dental implants. This denture is removable and often utilize clasps to secure the prosthetic in place. Partial dentures are made from acrylic but may have a base made out of metal for additional strength.
Unlike conventional dentures, implant-retained dentures won’t move or slip, they are more comfortable and function just like natural teeth. There is no need for messy adhesive and you won’t experience any of the typical mouth irritations from traditional dentures, like mouth sores. The required maintenance on Implant Retained Dentures is easy, as you can remove them for quick cleaning.
This process is pretty straight forward, this includes the removal of any remaining teeth and placement of implants for the dentures to securely latch to.
Hybrid Implant Denture
Hybrid Implant Dentures are very similar to Implant Retained Dentures with one significant difference, they are a permanent option. These dentures can only be removed by a dental professional. The process is also very similar, but will typically require more implants and possibly bone grafts, to ensure your jaw is strong enough to support the implant. If you’re looking for the best denture option, Hybrid Implant Dentures are just that.
Benefits of Dentures:
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Dentures can help increase self-confidence and self-esteem by replacing missing, worn, or decayed teeth.
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Dentures can improve your ability to speak and eat.
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Dentures tend to be the most affordable solution for replacing missing teeth and is the least invasive option.
Denture Cost:
There are multiple factors that may impact the cost of your dentures. The saying “you get what you pay for” is very important with dentures as there is no one-size-fits-all denture. Dentures are custom-made prosthetics and because of this, the price can vary for multiple reasons.
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Additional procedures such as tooth extractions or surgery to reshape bony ridges.
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The type of dental insurance and coverage you have.
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The complexity of the procedure.
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Dental materials selected by the patient and the dentist. For example, hard-wearing plastic vs high-quality ceramic.
If you are missing multiple or all of your teeth, you can receive full or partial dentures in Jacksonville, Florida. Call Point Meadows Dentistry at (904)373-4777 for more information on dentures and to schedule your consultation with Dr. Hanna Mularkey and Dr. Danser.
Implant Retained Dentures
Conventional Denture
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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How can I keep my teeth and gums happy?Brushing your teeth twice a day, and using a fluoride toothpaste at least once. Flossing regularly to remove plaque from between teeth. Visiting Point Meadows Dentistry routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning. Quitting smoking.
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Is Periodontal Disease reversible?The disease is still reversible at this stage and can usually be eliminated by thorough brushing and flossing. In the more advanced stages of gum disease, called periodontitis, the gums and bone that support the teeth become seriously damaged beyond repair.
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What are the stages of gum disease?Gingivitis: this is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gumline. Periodontitis: This is your final warning to take your treatment seriously. The supporting bone and tissue that keeps your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may begin to form a pocket below the gumline, which traps food and plaque causing more issues and possibly infections. Advanced Periodontitis: This is the final stage of gum disease, the tissue and bone supporting your teeth are permanently destroyed, which can cause your teeth to shift or loosen.
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Can you get Gum Disease without any teeth?Yes, gum disease is an ailment of the gums, and is independent of the teeth.
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Can your gums grow back?Gum tissue doesn't regenerate the way other types of tissue does. As a result, receding gums don't grow back.
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Can teeth whitening be painful?When performed by a dental professional, teeth whitening is an effective and safe way to brighten your smile. The most common side effect of whitening is temporary tooth sensitivity. In extreme cases the sensitivity can last up to a few days. It’s important to consult your dentist, to make sure you are a candidate for teeth whitening and to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
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How long do Veneers last?Veneers generally last between 7 and 15 years, depending on material. After this time, the veneers would need to be replaced.
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Are Veneers covered under insurance?The cost of veneers is not typically covered by insurance. To be certain, check with your dental insurance company.
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Are there alternatives to Veneers?Yes, bondings and crowns are alternative options. Veneers may be the best option for individuals who want to change the color and shape of their teeth more than just a little bit, but not enough to require a crown.
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My teeth are sensitive, what other whitening options do I have?"To avoid a hypersensitive reaction, we may recommend take-home bleaching trays with a lower concentration of carbamide peroxide – which is not as potent as hydrogen peroxide.
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Is teeth whitening permanent?In-office bleaching is not a permanent solution. Like your teeth prior to the treatment, they will remain susceptible to stains. We will recommend you follow-up your treatment with a lower-percentage bleach in-home treatment that can be kept on the teeth for longer periods of time.
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What is the difference between a cap and a dental crown?A crown is a prosthetic treatment for a broken or badly decayed tooth. A “cap” is an older term and is now commonly used to refer to dental crowns.
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How long do conventional dentures last?The average life expectancy of a denture is seven to ten years. The denture itself is designed to last considerably longer than this, however the shape of your mouth/jawbone will change requiring new dentures.
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How long does a dental crown last?On average, dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years. This depends on the amount of wear and tear the crown takes, how well you follow good oral hygiene practices, and your personal habits.
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How do you know if your dental crown needs to be replaced?There are a few indicators that your crown needs to replaced, here are a few common reasons: Your dental crown is old. Dental crowns can last for more than fifteen years before seeing any damage. Wear and tear Pain or swelling around the tooth Receding gum line
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My dental crown fell off, what do I do?"Simply, sometimes crowns fall off. Most often the reason is from the decay of the underlying tooth or loosening of the cementing material used to place the crown. If your crown comes off, clean the crown and the front of the tooth. Contact Point Meadows Dentistry immediately, we will give you specific instructions on how to care for the tooth and crown for the day or so until you can be seen for an evaluation. We may be able to re-cement the crown in place; if not, a new crown will need to be made.
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How long do you have to wait to get dentures after teeth are pulled?Typically, six to eight weeks after the extractions. This allows sufficient time for the mouth to heal. We will re-examine your mouth to ensure enough time has passed prior to fitting your dentures.
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Are dentures typically covered by Dental Insurance?Most complete coverage dental insurance policies include some restorative coverage, typically up to 50% of the cost of dentures is covered. Co-pays and regular deductibles still apply.
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Can your gums grow back?Gum tissue doesn't regenerate the way other types of tissue does. As a result, receding gums don't grow back.
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Why do my dentures keep falling out?The most common reason for loose-fitting dentures is a process known as bone resorption, where the gums begin to shrink due to them no longer needing to hold your teeth in place followed by bone loose.
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What is the difference between a cap and a dental crown?A crown is a prosthetic treatment for a broken or badly decayed tooth. A “cap” is an older term and is now commonly used to refer to dental crowns.
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How long do conventional dentures last?The average life expectancy of a denture is seven to ten years. The denture itself is designed to last considerably longer than this, however the shape of your mouth/jawbone will change requiring new dentures.
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How long does a dental crown last?On average, dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years. This depends on the amount of wear and tear the crown takes, how well you follow good oral hygiene practices, and your personal habits.
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How do you know if your dental crown needs to be replaced?Your dental crown is old. Dental crowns can last for more than fifteen years before seeing any damage. Wear and tear Pain or swelling around the tooth Receding gum line
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My dental crown fell off, what do I do?"Simply, sometimes crowns fall off. Most often the reason is from the decay of the underlying tooth or loosening of the cementing material used to place the crown. If your crown comes off, clean the crown and the front of the tooth. Contact Point Meadows Dentistry immediately, we will give you specific instructions on how to care for the tooth and crown for the day or so until you can be seen for an evaluation. We may be able to re-cement the crown in place; if not, a new crown will need to be made.
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How long do you have to wait to get dentures after teeth are pulled?Typically, six to eight weeks after the extractions. This allows sufficient time for the mouth to heal. We will re-examine your mouth to ensure enough time has passed prior to fitting your dentures.
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Are dentures typically covered by Dental Insurance?Most complete coverage dental insurance policies include some restorative coverage, typically up to 50% of the cost of dentures is covered. Co-pays and regular deductibles still apply.
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Why do my dentures keep falling out?The most common reason for loose-fitting dentures is a process known as bone resorption, where the gums begin to shrink due to them no longer needing to hold your teeth in place followed by bone loose.