Joshua Hong, DDS Blog

Available TMJ Treatment Options

March 25, 2016

Filed under: Blog,TMJ Treatment — tntadmin @ 12:11 pm

The joint that attaches the lower part of your jaw to your skull is known as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It really is a hinge and it enables the opening and closing of your mouth.  It also allows your mouth to move from one side to the other when you chew.  The joint is surrounded by muscles to control the position of the jaw.  There are people who suffer disorders that may affect the TMJ, the muscles surrounding it or both.

TMJ syndrome is a painful condition that also restricts the function of the jaw.  Even though most people experience the symptoms temporarily and they naturally disappear on their own, for others the issue may require surgical intervention.

Treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical, are available as follows:

  1. Non-Surgical Treatment Options for TMJ
    When it comes to the TMJ treatment, the key is being conservative.  Usually, the treatment can be done in the comfort of your home and without any surgical intervention.  If the issue is very severe, there may be need for mouth guards, splints and therapy.

    • Physiotherapy for the JawThis works well to reduce stiffness and pain while improving the muscles range of motion and strength.  It includes mobilization, stretching the muscle gently, acupuncture and exercise.  If you are experiencing muscle spasms that are related to TMJ, this is going to be the first line of treatment for you.
    • Managing StressStress can cause one to grind and clench the teeth, and this can make TMJ worse.  It is therefore important that you learn some relaxation techniques such as altering your breathing patterns and even learning how to breathe correctly.  You may want to go a step further and identify your stressors and then make whatever lifestyle changes are necessary.
    • Helpful MedicationIf you have been going through TMJ symptoms and treatment for a long while, you may have some medications prescribed to help.  These include anti-inflammatory pills, sedatives, anti-depressants, anti-anxiety and muscle relaxants.
    • Occlusal Appliance Therapy for TMJWhen you go to bed at night, you may be required to wear splints or bite plates which are effective in taking pressure off your teeth and jaw joints causing your muscles need to relax.

    Surgical Treatment Options for TMJ
    Surgery will not be considered unless it is absolutely necessary.  This will likely only happen if the cartilage found in the joint has been displaced severely.  This can result in pain and can limit your jaw function.  Surgery will only be considered if the jaw cannot be repositioned some other way and if other TMJ disorder treatments have failed.  Eminectomy is the most common surgery.  Here, part of your jaw joint, the part obstructing forward movement, is removed.  It is usually carried out under general anesthesia and considered a minor surgery.

    • Botox as TMJ Treatment Botox is generally known for the reduction of frown lines and wrinkles.  Today however, it is being used in dental offices to treat TMJ.  Botox is generally injected in the medial pterygoid, masseter and temporalis, which are the muscles that work together to move the jaw.  Those who have experienced this treatment have reported significant improvement in function, pain, amount of tenderness and mouth-opening ability.Botox works by relaxing the muscles that move uncontrollably because it blocks the nerve signals. It takes ten to fifteen minutes to take effect and remains effective between 2 and 6 months.
      • ArthrocentesisIn this procedure, fluid is extracted from the joint with a needle.  The area is then irrigated in order to remove any inflammatory derivatives and fragments that may be causing the problem.  Once that is done, a lubricant is then injected back to ensure that the joint moves again normally.  This procedure works for some but not others, and recovery takes about two days.
      • ArthroscopyThis procedure is somewhat similar to the one above albeit more invasive.  Here, an intra-oral camera is used to examine the inner part of the jaw joint.  The dental surgeon will then determine the best course of action depending on his findings.  These may include removing scar tissue that may be loose, stitching the discs and the like.  It is an outpatient procedure and it takes about a week to recover.  The required incision is quite small.
      • ArthroplastyThis term refers to open joint surgery.  It is only done if the less invasive surgical procedures cannot resolve your problem.  If there is need to do surgery on the bone, or to replace, remove or repair the articular disc, then this is the preferred treatment.  You will be under either general or local anesthesia and a small cut will be made right in front of your ear.
      • Osseous SurgeryIn the event that your bones are shaped badly, then this is the ideal treatment to re-structure and re-shape the disc.  It is a surgical procedure that attempts to remodel your bone.
      • MenictomyThis procedure includes a partial or complete removal of the disc.  The cartilage may be damaged beyond repair and may need to be replaced with an implant that carries out the same functions.
    • Alternative Treatments for TMJThese include radio wave therapy, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), trigger-point injections and ultrasound.  These options are known to provide temporary relief but do not completely treat the problem. They are a good option for TMJ pain treatment but not TMJ cure.TMJ disease can be painful, making life very uncomfortable.  It is treatable however, and should be looked into as soon as possible in order to avoid the more invasive treatments.  Contact us and let Joshua Hong DDS in Goodyear AZ help you find the relief you are looking for.

Here are some of the Little Known Causes of TMJ

February 9, 2016

Filed under: Blog,TMJ Treatment — tntadmin @ 12:39 pm

Causes of TMJ

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder is a disorder that causes pain in your temporomandibular joint most commonly known as your jaw. For some time, specialists thought that it results from malocclusion, but after a lot of research was carried out, it has led them to believe this may not be the only cause.

If you suffer from TMJ, it is common for you to have some trouble when opening your mouth. In many cases when you try to open your mouth widely, your joint pops or clicks. If you suffer from TMJ, you will also be prone to having toothache or neck pain. You may also experience dizziness or you could have tinnitus. Some other causes of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder include:

  • HPA Axis Dysregulation
  • Inflammation
  • Hormone balance
  • Child birth
  • Pinched nerves
  • Obstructed airways

TMJ and how HPA Axis Dysregulation affects you;

If this disease affects you, you should understand that the more stress you are under, the more pain you are likely to experience. Adrenal Fatigue or HPA Axis Dysregulation is a common symptom of those that have TMJ. This is because you will have higher levels of cortisol in the morning and when you are stressed out you will release large amounts of it. TMJ sufferers have showed that they have cortisol rhythms that are not the norm, which would indicate that they would suffer from adrenal fatigue.

TMD and Inflammation

If you suffer from TMJ, stress causes your body to become resistant to the effect of cortisol. With your body being immune, the normal process to keep inflammation at bay doesn’t function as well as it should. It is believed that the stress that you undergo could also be associated with the pain that you feel when suffering from TMJ.

How does your hormone balance affect your condition with TMJ?

It seems that women are more prone to suffering from TMJ because disorders that cause pain such as Fibromyalgia are more common among women and it is believed that the balance of your hormones can play a major role. When you suffer from TMJ whether you are male or female, your estrogen levels would be a lot higher than a non-sufferer would. Estrogen compared to testosterone causes a lot more damage to TMJ. Female patients that are on an oral contraceptive or receiving hormone replacements are more likely to develop the disorder. There are ways to balance your hormones and in turn, it is effective for TMJ Disorder Treatment and they include:

  • Make sure that you are at a healthy weight
  • Avoid compounds that could expose you to more estrogen
  • Try keep your stress levels as low as possible
  • Eat an adequate amount of fiber to keep your constitution healthy

Does Child Birth affect TMJ?

It is believed that the process of a baby travelling down the birth canal and the pressure on the skull can cause TMJ Disorder. Although most babies might not suffer any effectsfrom this pressure, there are cases where children will suffer at a later stage in life.

What are TMJ Symptoms and Treatment?

Here are many different TMJ Symptoms and Treatments for sufferers. The symptoms of TMJ are painful and many struggle to live with it. Symptoms can include any of the following:

  • Headaches
  • Neck, back and shoulder pains
  • Difficulty in opening the jaw widely and experiencing a popping of the jaws

Although it is often adults that suffer from TMJ, children can also be sufferers. Even though treatment of TMJ Symptoms can alleviate pain for the young and old, the treatment isn’t something that can work overnight. It takes time for TMJ Treatment to alleviate the pain that accompanies it. For TMJ Treatment, you can consider the following:

  • If you are a teeth grinder, you can use a mouth guard
  • For young children, a trip to the orthodontist to balance the jaw or to fix skewed teeth is necessary
  • Adults and children need to get enough sleep

How does pinched nerves and obstructed airways affect a TMJ sufferer?

Having an imbalance of your spine could cause the pain associated with TMJ because your muscles have to work harder to rectify the body’s balance and could ultimately cause tingling sensations and numbness in your limbs. When the lower jaw isn’t aligned properly, your tongue will end up further back in your mouth than it should, which will in turn cause obstructed breathing. This causes the body to once again work harder and the extra stress on the body will cause more pain in the neck and jaw for sufferers. Since there are so many small details that could make a difference in your TMJ Disorder Treatment, it is best to do as much reading as you possibly can to get all the relevant information needed to understand the disease.

All About Full Mouth Reconstruction

January 29, 2016

Filed under: Blog,Full Mouth Reconstruction — tntadmin @ 6:24 am

Do you have missing teeth? Do you have bone loss in your teeth? Are you gums going through health problems? Do you ever feel self-conscious because of your less-than-pearly white teeth? Do you put your hand over your mouth nearly every time you talk or smile? Do you suffer from a bad bite? Well, there is no need to worry if you are a victim of any of the above. Undergoing a full mouth reconstruction fixes all such issues thus giving you a bright and beautiful smile. You’re smiling already, aren’t you?!

When do you need to undergo a full mouth reconstruction?

If one or more of your teeth are missing, worn out, broken or decayed, youcan experience significant dental problems. It also gives you an unpleasant appearance. Further, if your teeth are not ideally aligned, they can cause a bite problem. Without a proper bite, chewing can become impaired and cause strain to the muscles and jaw joints. In such cases, what you need is a full mouth reconstruction.

What is a full mouth reconstruction?

A full mouth reconstruction or restoration involves a set of multi-phase and multi-procedural processes, which combine aesthetic dentistry techniques with the science of neuromuscular dentistry. It gives you a beautiful smile line and a more appealing and youthful appearance. It restores or rebuilds some or all of your teeth in the front and back of your mouth.It is a form of restorative dentistry,which not only replaces or repairs the missing or damaged teeth but also corrects irregular bite and makes your supporting cone structure and gum tissue healthy.

Who performs this procedure?

This procedure is typically performed by professionals such as periodontists (gum specialists), oral surgeons, orthodontists (tooth movement and position specialists) and endodontists (tooth pulp specialists).

What are the set of procedures involved in it?

A full mouth reconstruction involves one or more of the following procedures:

  • Prophylactic teeth cleaning
  • Crown lengthening
  • Gum surgery procedures
  • Placement of permanent restorations such as crowns, veneers, porcelain inlays/onlays or bridges
  • Neuromuscular dentistry
  • Orthotic therapy to correct occlusion
  • Orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaw
  • TMD therapy
  • Replacement of old fillings or crowns.
  • Periodontal therapy
  • New fillings or crowns
  • Oral surgery procedures
  • Partial or complete dentures
  • Contouring/reshaping of tooth/teeth
  • Treatment for sleep apnea
  • Contouring of the gum tissue
  • Bone or soft tissue grafting
  • Bonding
  • Placement of temporary restorations
  • Orthodontic (dental braces) procedures
  • Dental Implants to replace missing teeth and/or support bridge restorations
  • Depending upon the need in each case, your dentist will decide what combination of procedures you need in order to fix your problem.

How does it work?

Generally, the dental surgeon will work on fixing your bite problems first. To determine whether you have an improper bite alignment or not, dentistsuse lab work and moulds to create an orthotic device and thereafter fix this impropriety. Computer scans of your mouth work as the basic guiding factor for dentists when deciding what combination of treatments to render and how to go about in the process of restoration.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

  1. Enhances mouth appearance

    A full mouth reconstruction, reconstructs and rebuilds worn out and damaged teeth. It gives you a fresh new set of uniform colored and shaped teeth. It eliminates all the stains and gaps that once made your smile look less attractive and unpleasant.Magical, isn’t it?

  2. Eliminates chewing sounds

    People who make all kinds of funny sounds while chewing are often disliked. The clicking sound made by their mouths not only embarrasses them but also various others around them. Undergoing a full mouth reconstruction can fix this problem and eliminate the irritating sound and thus make the eating experience more comfortable and enjoyable. A total win- win!

  3. Improves the breath

    Unclean teeth invite germs and bacteria and thus lead to a bad breath. Having your teeth in order makes it a lot easier to keep them clean and fresh. Clean teeth and a good general oral health decreases risk of heart disease and other conditions that could otherwise result from a poor dental hygiene.

  4. Improves sleep and well being

    Toothache is extremely painful and can disrupt your overall health and well-being. Constant toothache significantly impacts your sleep and comfort level. Who wants a disturbed sleep leading to ugly dark circles around the eyes next morning?!Good dental health prevents such issues and thus enhancesthe overall appearance and aesthetics.

  5. Induces confidence

    A good sense of well being is extremely attractive. It is easy to tell when someone is happy and confident. A brand new smile could be the key to a healthier and happier you.

  6. Dr. Hong along with his dental team at Joshua Hong DDS render the highest quality of dentistry available, coupled with the utmost attention to your comfort and care in an environment that is calm, relaxing, quiet, clean and modern. Go and get your full mouth restoration done today!

Risk Factors for TMJ Disorder

December 18, 2015

Filed under: Blog,TMJ Treatment — tntadmin @ 11:38 am

Risk Factors for TMJ Disorder : A risk factor is anything that predisposes you to catching a disease or condition. Therefore, you will need to be exposed to one or more risk factors to get a disease. The more the risk factors you are exposed to, the more the likelihood of being affected.

Temporomandibular joint (TJM) syndrome is a group of conditions that affect temporomandibular joint areas. TMJ syndrome is usually a self-limiting and a very common disorder. TMJ patients usually experience chronic pains and discomforts such as lower back pain, fibromyalgia, and headaches which is the main focus during TJM treatment. In some cases, the patients suffer jaw malfunctions which are associated with teeth clenching and grinding.

Below are some of the risk factors that can predispose an individual to TMJ. However, you can develop TMJ syndrome without being predisposed to various risk factors listed below.

If you are exposed to many of these risk factors, it is important to ask your health care provider on possible ways to reduce your risk.

TMJ syndrome risk factors

1. Stress

Stress is one of the major predisposing factors that increase the risk of catching TMJ syndrome. Some of the stressing habits likely to increase an individual’s risk of getting TMJ syndrome include:

  • Grinding your teeth at night during sleep or during the day
  • Regularly or constantly chewing things such as gum for a long period of time
  • Constantly clenching and unclenching your jaw

2. Medical conditions

The following are some of the medical conditions that are likely to increase your risk of catching TMJ syndrome:

  • Facial and jaw deformities
  • Arthritic conditions such as osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Misaligned bite and teeth
  • History of facial or jaw injuries such as dislocations or fractures of the mandibles

3. Age

Most cases of TMJ syndrome symptoms have been reported among people aged 30 to 50 years of age. Therefore, people within this age group are more susceptible to suffering from TMJ syndrome.

4. Gender

Studies reveal that women are three times more susceptible to catching TMJ syndrome as compared to men. The risk of chronic TMJ among women increases significantly between the ages 18 to 44 years.

Studies have found that TMJ syndrome risk is high during childbearing years but decreases thereafter.

5. Ill-fitting dentures

Improperly fitted dentures after a jaw injury may be a risk factor that predisposes one to TMJ syndrome.

Other risk factors

It has been suggested that women who take hormone replacement therapy have a high likelihood of developing TMJ syndrome symptoms. Several studies that have been done on the TMJ syndrome suggest a link between TMJ syndrome and mitral valve prolapse.

Variability in genetics has also been shown to be a risk factor. People who have alterations in several genes are likely to suffer from TMJ syndrome. Some of these altered genes are known to influence stress response, inflammation, and psychological well-being. Therefore, the understanding of these phenomena has aided the research for drugs to be used in TMJ treatment.

It is also important to note that TMJ syndrome susceptibility is not related to low socio-economic status of an individual. This is unlike other chronic conditions. For example, socioeconomic status has been found to have a profound effect on sciatica, musculoskeletal pain, neuropathic pain, and ulcer.

Final word

The above-discussed factors are the major predisposing factors to TMJ. However, you should note that TMJ syndrome can be caused with or without exposure to the above factors. Women are the most susceptible to catching the TMJ syndrome as compared to men especially during their child bearing age. If you are more exposed to the above factors, you need to consider visiting your doctor or healthcare provider to give you tips on how to reduce the risks. Prevention is always better than TMJ treatment.

These risk factors can be broadly be classified into psychological distress, genetics, pain amplification, and history of physical and psychological trauma.

Full Mouth Reconstruction vs. Smile Makeover

December 5, 2015

Filed under: Blog,Full Mouth Reconstruction — tntadmin @ 6:29 am

Your oral health is just as important as your general health. In other words, having a healthy set of teeth is as important as any other organ in the human body. Various new techniques and procedures have been developed to ensure better oral health and a healthy mouth in general. Latest procedures such as a full mouth reconstruction or a smile makeover deal effectively with functional problems and issues that interfere significantly with the general overall health of the mouth, including the teeth and gums. While both these procedures involve the use of clinically proven dental materials and treatment techniques accompanied with exceptional knowledge, training and skill on the part of the dentist, there is a thin line of difference between the two. In that case, how will you know which one you need? Let us understand both the procedures and compare the two to answer this question.

What is full mouth reconstruction?

Full mouth reconstruction or rehabilitation or restoration are interchangeable terms which involve a process of rebuilding along with simultaneously restoring all of your teeth in both the upper and lower jaws in your mouth. Professionals such as periodontists (gum specialists), oral surgeons, orthodontists (tooth movement and position specialists) and endodontists (tooth pulp specialists) perform this process.

When would you need a full mouth reconstruction?

If you are facing any of the following situations or problems, then you might need a full mouth reconstruction.

  • Teeth have been injured or fractured.
  • Teeth have become severely worn out due to long-term acid erosion resulting from certain foods or beverages or tooth grinding.
  • Teeth have been lost due to decay or trauma.
  • Constant headache or ongoing complaints of jaw or muscle.

Moreover, procedures such as fixing broken teeth, replacing missing teeth, moving teeth for getting them aligned in a better way and repairing wear and tear are also a part of full mouth reconstruction.

What is a smile makeover?

A smile makeover on the other hand is more cosmetic in nature that mainly focuses on aesthetics. A person is a candidate for a smile makeover in cases where he or she wears a rather unattractive or unpleasant smile. Smile makeover is also a great way to treat teeth stained by excessive consumption of tea, coffee or smoking.

What all is involved in a smile makeover?

The procedure of a smile makeover may involve one or more of the following:

  • Teeth Whitening
  • Dental Crowns and Bridges
  • Tooth-Colored Fillings
  • Dental Implants
  • Dentures
  • Inlays and Onlays
  • Invisalign “Invisible Braces”

Comparison between the two:

  • A full mouth reconstruction is something that you need to undergo for better health of your teeth, and a smile makeover is a procedure that you can choose to have.
  • Full mouth reconstruction procedure deals with the health of your teeth along with other related issues of the mouth whereas smile makeover lays emphasis mainly on the appearance of your smile.

Therefore, from the above comparison, it can be concluded that if the problem with your teeth is more than just about your wonderful smile and involves serious damage to your general dental health, you must consult with an experienced dentist or dental surgeon for a full mouth reconstruction. However, if you just want to enhance your beauty in general with a better and brighter smile, a smile makeover is what you need.

TMJ Symptoms, Signs and Causes

November 18, 2015

Filed under: Blog,TMJ Treatment — tntadmin @ 9:03 am

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (also known by the acronym TMJ or TMD) is a disorder associated with the temporomandibular joint, which is like a connector that links the jaw with the temporal bones that are part of the skull. This joint is pretty important, since it’s the one that allows the jaw to move, making it possible to talk and chew food.

When there are issues with this joint, TMJ is usually to blame.

Causes of TMJ

Despite the prevalence of TMJ, dentists continue to be unclear about exactly what causes TMJ. According to doctor Joshua Hong DDS, some of the main causes of this condition have been narrowed down to:

  • Pressure on the Joint – Actions such as grinding or clenching of the teeth will apply pressure on the joint, and may cause damage.
  • Disc Movement – The joint is made of a ball and socket. Movement of the disc between these two elements could be the cause too.
  • Stress – The collection of muscles that surround the jaw tighten and move around when an individual is stressed, affecting the joint.
  • Other Causes – Arthritis and other medical conditions may also affect the joint.

Symptoms and Signs of TMJ

TMJ will cause a person to experience extreme pain, which can go on for years. TMJ symptoms typically begin to show up between the ages of 20 and 40, and include:

  • Pain – Widespread pain across different parts of the face, jaw joints and even the shoulders.
  • Stiffness – Difficulty in opening the mouth wide while eating, or incorrect bites, almost as if top and bottom teeth aren’t meeting like they are supposed to.
  • Strange Sounds – The jaw makes odd sounds that weren’t there before, ranging from popping sounds to clicking ones.
  • Swelling – Significant amount of swelling on the sides of the face.

TMJ Surgery and Treatment

TMJ pain and other associated symptoms have a wide range of treatment options available, which include home remedies as well as procedures such as dental filling, which can alleviate most problems associated with TMJ. If all these options fail, TMJ surgery would be advised to the patient.

Here are the three types of surgery that dentists recommend for patients with TMJ disorders:

  • Arthrocentesis – This is the surgery that is performed if the jaw is locked, and is advisable only when the patient has no history of TMJ. In this type of surgery, after a dose of anesthesia, the dentist will use needles to unlock the joint.
  • Arthroscopy – This surgery is performed using a gadget called arthroscope, hence the name. The arthroscope is a tool which is a combination of a lens with light, and allows the doctor to ‘see’ through the lens into the patient’s mouth. Using this tool, the dentist will be able to remove damaged tissue and readjust the joints. This type of surgery is preferable because it leaves only a minor scar, and that means fewer chances of post-surgery complications.
  • Open-Joint Surgery – This is used as a last-resort surgery when arthroscopy is not an option. It is chosen when the jaw joints have worn down severely, if there are tumors, or the joints are scarred.

Dental Filling – Advantages and Disadvantages

One of the solutions for TMJ is the use of dental fillings, and the most cost-effective and popular dental fillings are made of composite resin. Let’s look at the major advantages and disadvantages of composite resin fillings:

Composite Resin – Advantages

  • The fillings can be made to match the color of the tooth
  • All that is needed is a single visit to the clinic
  • These bond directly to the tooth
  • They occupy less space and that means less drilling of the teeth
  • Composite’ means that multiple materials can be used, forming a cocktail with the best of everything

Composite Resin – Disadvantages

  • Not as long lasting as amalgam or silver fillings
  • Chances of shrinking and wearing away over time
  • The procedure lasts longer, increasing the cost of the surgery

TMJ is a joint-related disorder that if left unchecked, could lead to serious jaw problems. If you experience any of the symptoms associated with it, make sure you visit your dentist in Goodyear, AZ for a checkup at the earliest, so it can be nipped in the bud!

What is oral and maxillofacial surgery

September 8, 2015

Filed under: Blog,Oral Surgery and Tooth Removal — Tags: — tntadmin @ 8:35 am

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMS) is a surgical specialty in dentistry that focuses on treating injuries, diseases, and defects affecting the maxillofacial regions. The maxillofacial region forms the facial skeleton and is comprised of the jaws, bones of the forehead, and the face.

Types of Surgeries that Oral and Maxillofacial Specialists Perform

Below are some of the surgeries that are carried out by OMS specialists, which essentially form the basis of defining this surgical specialty:

  • Dento-Alveolar And Oral Surgery

    This is a surgical procedure carried out to treat teeth disorders. It encompasses teeth extraction, dental implants, aligning of the alveolar bone, as well as teeth exposure for orthodontic traction.

  • Trauma Surgery

    This is done on patients who have had bone fractures on their face, neck, and head to realign those fractured bones.

  • Orthognathic Surgery

    This is performed in conjunction with teeth movement where prosthetic devices will be placed. It is done on the orbital bones, cheeks, chin, nasal structures, and on both the upper and lower jaws.

  • Congenital Deformities Surgery

    This surgery type seeks to correct congenital defects on the face.

  • Dental Implants Surgery

    Dental Implant is done to support facial and oral prosthetic devices. It involves surgically removing soft and bony tissues where dentures are to be placed.

  • Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Surgery

    TMJ is done to correct inflammatory disorders that affect the soft tissues of the joint, as well as those affecting the bones.

  • Tumor And Cancer Surgery

    This procedure surgically removes tumors, including cancerous ones, in the face.

Procedures In Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical

  • OMS procedures are performed to treat diseases, defects, and injuries on the mouth, skull, face, and the connected structures. Here are some of the reasons why you would need to visit a maxillofacial surgeon and the procedures that will be undertaken to resolve them:
  • Extraction of wisdom teeth – done when wisdom teeth get impacted and cause pain or if they have an infection.
  • Surgical uncovering of impacted teeth – done to align the impacted teeth. If the teeth are crowded or badly displaced, they may require extraction.
  • Replacing absent teeth by placing dental implants – the implants on the lower and upper jaws provide a base for attaching artificial teeth or bridges.
  • Bone grafting to facilitate implants – a bone grafting is necessitated where an implant requires additional bone for holding onto. A specialist will often source this grafting bone from the hip or from a different part of the jaw. An artificial bone may also be used.
  • Orthognathic or jaw surgery – this procedure is performed on the jaws to correctly position them. With correctly relating jaws, a person is able to chew and speak properly as well as give excellent facial aesthetics.
  • Craniofacial and pediatric maxillofacial surgery – this early surgery is done to correct congenital deformities such as palate, cleft lip, and underdeveloped faces on babies.

TMJ Surgery

  • jaw disorders, such as locked jaw and ankylosis, may call for surgery.
  • Nose restructuring, also known as Rhinoplasty.
  • Chin restructuring, also known as Genioplasty.
  • Removal of cysts and tumors on the face and jaws.
  • Frenectony – a procedure done to correct conditions affecting soft oral tissues, such as tongue ties, lesions, or mucous cysts.

Tooth Bonding: Types, Procedure, Advantages and Disadvantages

August 10, 2015

Filed under: Blog,Cosmetic Dentistry — tntadmin @ 1:42 pm

What is Tooth Bonding?

Let’s start by answering the main question, what is dental bonding? Tooth bonding, also known as dental bonding, is an oral procedure performed by a dentist to restore damaged teeth. Sometimes, tooth bonding is used to improve the appearance of teeth as well. If you ever look at dental bonding before and after pictures, you’ll understand why it’s popular!

As part of the procedure, tooth-colored resin will be applied on the damaged tooth. Then, dental light that reacts to this resin is directed at the resin, which then hardens and bonds to the tooth.

When To Get Tooth Bonding?

There are multiple scenarios where a tooth bonding procedure may be recommended by a dentist. Here are some of the more common ones:

  • Repair of teeth that have decayed
  • Repair of teeth that are either cracked or chipped
  • Fixing teeth that have become discolored and hence look ugly
  • Fixing a set of teeth that have developed wide gap between them
  • Extending the length of teeth that are too short and cause trouble while chewing food
  • Modifying the natural shape of teeth
  • As an alternative to other dental solutions such as fillings
  • As a way of protecting parts of the mouth that have exposed gums

Tooth Bonding Procedure

Tooth bonding is a fairly simple but occasionally lengthy procedure, so let’s take a look at the steps involved:

  • Before the Procedure – Tooth bonding does not involve any surgical equipment. In simple words, the entire procedure could be pictured as a simple exercise that involves filling a hole in a tooth.
  • Further, the tooth bonding procedure is the same irrespective of the individual. The only time it becomes complicated is when a number of teeth are involved. Usually, the patient can just drop by, get the bonding done and walk out.

  • Selecting Resin Color – The next step will be to pick the resin color. Different people have different colored teeth, and the dentist will select the color after some intensive matching, to ensure that your teeth look natural after the bonding procedure is complete.
  • Bonding – Once the resin is chosen, the next step is the actual bonding activity. The tooth that is being subjected to the procedure will be roughened up. Then, a conditioning liquid will be applied on it. These two activities will ensure that the resin will stick to the teeth.
  • After that, the resin is applied, and it’s immediately shaped on the teeth to make it as natural looking as possible.

  • Drying – The resin needs to be quickly dried up. To do this, the dentist will shine an ultraviolet light on the resin, which will harden pretty fast once exposed to the light. Even as the resin is hardening, the dentist will continue to work on it, adjusting the shape and fine tuning it for optimum results.
  • Duration – The total duration of the procedure is typically about thirty minutes, but if the procedure is complicated or multiple teeth are involved, it might extend to 60 minutes or so. This applies to every tooth that needs bonding.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Some Of The Main Benefits Of Tooth Bonding Include:

  • Easy and Cheap – Compared to almost any other dental procedure, this is the easiest and cheapest option.
  • Single Visit – Most dental procedures usually take multiple visits, but not tooth bonding.
  • Reduced Enamel Loss – Many dental procedures come very close to damaging the enamel covering on the tooth, but tooth bonding does not.
  • No Anesthesia – Unless the tooth damage is severe, the procedure does not need the patient to go under anesthesia.

Like With Any Other Dental Procedures, There Are Few Disadvantages Too, like:

  • Stains – Tooth bonding is not as stain-resistant as other dental procedures like crowns.
  • Not Long Lasting – Resin tends to scrape away pretty fast, sometimes leading to repeated tooth bonding procedures

According to expert advice by a doctor (Joshua Hong DDS), dental bonding is a good option if the objective is to make minor cosmetic changes to the way your teeth look. The procedure is simple, costs less and has a lot of advantages. At the same time, it’s not a permanent solution for those who are looking for long-term answers to serious dental problems.

What is Dental Filling ?

July 23, 2015

Filed under: Blog,Tooth Decay and Dental Fillings — tntadmin @ 6:28 am

Tooth decay, if left untreated, will eventually consume a large portion of the affected tooth or teeth. Dental filling is one way of restoring your smile to its full glory. The decayed portions of the teeth will be removed, the affected areas cleaned, and the cavity will be filled with a suitable filling material, hence the name “dental filling.”

Types of Dental Fillings

The key to effective dental fillings is the filling material that is used for the procedure. There are many substances that have properties similar to the natural material of a tooth, so there are also many different types of dental fillings. These include:

  • Gold Fillings – Gold fillings are perhaps the best filling material ever used for teeth. Gold is a metal that has some fantastic properties that make these fillings last as much as twenty years or more. Obviously, gold fillings are made to order since gold is one of the most expensive metals and not everyone can afford it.
  • Composite Resin Fillings – Composite resin is the best filling material if the appearance of the fillings is a major concern. The reason for this is that the color of resin can be changed to suit the existing color of the teeth. However, composite fillings are not as solid as other types since they are more vulnerable to wear and tear.
  • Porcelain Fillings – This is an alternative for those who want something as good as gold but don’t want gold-colored teeth. Like gold, porcelain fillings also have to be made to order and are equally expensive.

To Get The Dental Care You Deserve From An Affordable Dental Care In Goodyear,Arizona. Call JOSHUA HONG DDS Of Goodyear Today at (623) 925-8822 or make an appointment.

Who Needs Tooth Filling?

The following are some of the instances when a dentist may suggest tooth filling:
  • Presence of tooth decay that has led to chipped or cracked teeth
  • Cavities – large and small alike – will lead to the need for tooth filling
  • Tooth damage due to the habit of biting nails or using teeth to uncork bottles

Advantages and Disadvantages of Fillings

Every material used for teeth bonding has its own pros and cons, so here’s a quick list:

1.Composite Resin

 Pros of Composite Resign
  • Filling will match the tooth color
  • Single visit to the dentist
  • Bonds directly with the tooth
  • No additional tooth drilling
 Cons of Composite Resign
  • Costlier than amalgam fillings
  • Short life when compared to amalgam
  • Chances of developing tooth gaps over time
  • Procedure is complicated and hence costlier
  • At least two dental visits, more if necessary

2.Gold Filling

Pros of Gold Fillings
  • No chance of corrosion
  • Some people simply prefer gold
  • Lasts for decades
 Cons of Gold Fillings
  • Two dental visits, at least
  • Most expensive filling option
  • Chances of galvanic shock if amalgam is also used as filling material
  • Will not match with tooth because of the gold color

3.Porcelain Filling

 Pros of Porcelain Fillings 
  • Color match is perfect
  • Can withstand a lot of wear and tear
Cons of Porcelain Fillings 
  • Chances of breaking due to its brittle nature
  • Additional drilling of teeth to make room for the clay

Dental filling happens to be one of the better solutions for tooth decay, and there are many options, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right option simply comes down to discussing them with the dentist and deciding which one is best for you.

 

What Is A Denture

July 9, 2015

Filed under: Blog,Dental Implants and Dentures — tntadmin @ 1:26 pm

A Denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and adjacent tissues. It can be made out of acrylic resin, sometimes in combination with various metals.

Different Types Of Dentures Available – Based On The Needs Of The Patients:

Conventional Full Denture: A conventional full denture is placed in your mouth after all remaining teeth are removed and the tissues have healed.

Immediate Full Denture: An immediate full denture is inserted immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. Immediate full dentures have to be realigned after your teeth have healed.

Partial Denture: A partial denture rests on a metal framework that attaches to your natural teeth. Your natural teeth are capped with crowns and used as anchors for this denture.

A Brief On Dentures Infographic

Image Source : visual.ly

Conventional full dentures and immediate full dentures are for people who have lost most or all of their teeth. A partial denture is ideal for people who have a few natural teeth remaining. Dentures give you the added advantage of not only improving your chewing ability and speech but also providing support for your facial muscles. They thereby enhance your facial appearance and smile.

To Get The Dental Care You Deserve From An Affordable Dental Care In Goodyear,Arizona. Call JOSHUA HONG DDS Of Goodyear Today at (623) 925-8822 or make an appointment.

Generally, one or more follow-up appointments are essential after receiving dentures to make any necessary adjustments. It is not wise to attempt to adjust or repair your dentures yourself. Dentures that do not fit properly can cause irritation and sores in the mouth and on gums.  If the denture breaks, cracks, or chips, or if one of the teeth becomes loose, you should report it to your dentist immediately instead of trying to readjust the dentures yourself. Bending any part of the clasp or metal attachments can weaken the metal structure of the dentures and cause more unnecessary discomfort. Readjusting or repairing the dentures should be left to the dentist, otherwise it might do more harm than good.

It is important to pay extra attention to your oral hygiene after getting dentures. Whether you get full or partial dentures, you must brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft-bristled toothbrush every morning before putting the dentures in. This will remove the build-up of plaque in your mouth and will also help to stimulate circulation in your mouth. Also remember to clean and massage your gums regularly. Rinsing your mouth daily with lukewarm salt water will help to clean the gums. Eating a balanced diet to maintain proper nutrition also keeps unnecessary oral problems at bay.

Plaque that might get trapped under the clasp will increase the risk of tooth decay, so pay special attention to cleaning teeth that fit under the denture’s metal clasps. If you wear a partial denture, be sure to remove it before brushing your natural teeth.

As time passes, your dentures will need to be realigned, rebased, or remade due to normal wear and natural age-related changes to the face, jaw bone, and gums, or if the dentures become loose. Your dentist will refit the denture base or make a new one as per your needs. Generally, a pair of dentures can last you anywhere from 5 to 7 years before a replacement becomes necessary.

It is important to see your dentist regularly so that he or she can examine your mouth for signs of oral diseases, like cancer, and also have your teeth professionally cleaned. Your mouth will continue to change as the bone under your denture shrinks or recedes as you age. To maintain a proper fit over time, it may be necessary to adjust your dentures or possibly remake your dentures. A visit to the dentist every six months will keep all the denture-related problems in check.

About Joshua Hong DDS

At Joshua Hong DDS,we perform general dentistry with post-graduate school training in jaw joint rehabilitation, full-mouth reconstruction, and occlusion. We can do veneers, crowns, bridges, dentures, tooth colored fillings, invisible braces, implant crown restorations, all-on-four restoration, dentures, teeth whitening, extractions and non-surgical tmj therapy. We do all this with a holistic approach. Joshua Hong DDS in Goodyear, Az has a highly trained smile team. Dr Hong works with the best of the best. We don’t provide any dentistry that is not good enough for any of our family members. We have also created a spa like atmosphere and cater towards clients with anxiety. We do memory free dentistry.

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