Dr Turchin - Andrew Turchin, DMD

March 18, 2020October 11, 2019 by Dr Turchin

Root canals are one of the most common procedures performed in the dental office. The procedure can be done in about an hour and provides quick and efficient pain relief of a tooth that is bothering you. The need for a root canal can stem from a variety of different reasons, but treatment is the same and should be done as soon as you notice there is a problem. With early treatment, you can prevent the development of an infection and the need for further care.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal involves the complete and total removal of the inner pulp of a tooth. Each of your teeth has a pulp inside, which houses the nerves and blood supply for that particular tooth. When decay is allowed to reach the pulp or if a tooth has broken or cracked enough to expose the pulp, a root canal should be performed. During the root canal, the pulp is removed from the tooth and the canals of the roots are filled with a specialty medicated material. Root canals are done to preserve the actual tooth and prevent the need for an extraction.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

While one of the only conclusive ways to tell if you need a root canal is with an exam and x-ray, there are other signs to look out for. Keep in mind that these signs may indicate other problems, like severe sensitivity that can be resolved with desensitizing agents or even just a simple cavity. The only real way to tell if a root canal is needed is with a comprehensive examination and dental x-ray. If you find yourself taking over-the-counter pain medications more than just once a day for a toothache, it’s time to be seen for the problem. Spme things to look for that could signal the need for a root canal include:

• Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
• Severe Tooth Pain
• Darkening of a Tooth
• Swollen Gums
• Cracked or Fractured Tooth
• Throbbing or Sharp Toothache

Why Treatment is Necessary

If treatment is ignored, the inner pulp can become infected and further care is needed to clear the infection before any work can be done. Likewise, a root canal that is ignored can cause severe pain and sensitivity, making it difficult for you to enjoy life without focusing on how your tooth feels. Root canals may be frightening to some, but they are incredibly simple and beneficial procedures to the health of your teeth. They effectively remove the pulp, which in turn eliminates any pain and sensitivity that you’re experiencing so that you can get back to your day.

March 18, 2020September 20, 2019 by Dr Turchin

If you have crooked, crowded or unevenly spaced teeth, you may be considering orthodontic treatment to correct these problems and finally feel confident in your smile. Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for children and teens anymore, since many adults are choosing care to improve their appearance. While traditional braces are still very popular among orthodontic patients, Invisalign has become a go-to choice for lots of people. These clear aligner trays are ideal for patients who want the benefits of orthodontic treatment without the metal wiring and brackets often involved.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a system of clear aligner trays that are worn over the teeth. They can be removed to brush your teeth and floss, but they should ideally be worn for about 22 hours each day. These clear aligner trays are virtually invisible to the naked eye, so most people won’t even be able to tell that you’re wearing Invisalign. Because of how effective Invisalign is and how discreet your treatment can be, many patients have gone with Invisalign over traditional braces since the system was introduced many years ago. There are many other brands of clear aligners, but Invisalign is still one of the most popular brands currently available.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Like traditional braces, the Invisalign trays work by forcing gentle pressure onto the teeth. This pushes them into place to correct crowding and crookedness as well as spacing issues. In order for Invisalign to work effectively, they should be worn for as long as possible both day and night. Most patients will wear their Invisalign trays for anywhere from a year to about two years. During treatment, you’ll have routine orthodontic appointments so that new trays can be made as your teeth begin to shift into place. Prior to beginning treatment, a comprehensive care plan is created just for you and your smile.

Optimizing Results with Invisalign

Invisalign is only effective when the clear aligner trays are actually worn. Ideally, they should be worn for about 22 hours each day and only removed to brush and floss your teeth. It is important that you keep up with your orthodontic appointments, since new trays will be made for you during the course of your treatment and are an integral part of correcting problems concerning dentition. Invisalign is an easy and highly effective way to improve the look of your smile without the use of bulky metal brackets and wires.

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March 18, 2020September 10, 2019 by Dr Turchin

While traditional braces still have a time and place for some patients, many people are flocking to Invisalign as a way to correct problems with dentition. If your teeth are crowded, crooked, unevenly spaced or if you have malocclusion problems, the Invisalign system can effectively help in improving your smile as well as your confidence. When deciding between traditional metal braces and Invisalign, there are some clear differences that need to be taken into consideration before going with the treatment that is right for you.

How Does Invisalign Treatment Work?
Unlike traditional braces that use brackets and wires to shift teeth into more uniform alignment, Invisalign uses a series of clear trays, known as aligners. These aligners are worn for about 22 hours every day and work by gently forcing pressure onto the teeth so that they shift easily and smoothly into place. Your treatment is monitored at all times and most patients will need to come into the office every few weeks to have new Invisalign aligner trays made for them as treatment continues to progress.

Is Invisalign Faster Than Braces?
Patients who are wearing braces or who will be wearing braces want to know which option is faster and easier for them. Invisalign tends to work more quickly than traditional braces because of the frequent visits to the dental office and the different trays that you’ll wear over the course of treatment. Most patients will wear Invisalign for anywhere from 12 to 18 months. However, certain factors can contribute to how long you’ll be wearing your Invisalign. If you fail to keep your trays in for 22 hours a day or if you continually miss orthodontic appointments, treatment may be delayed and take longer than it should. Keep in mind that all patients have varying needs concerning their smiles, so treatment may be shorter or longer for you.

Improving Your Results with Invisalign
To improve your results with Invisalign and to prevent the need to wear the aligners for longer than is necessary, it is crucial that you wear the Invisalign for about 22 hours a day. You should only remove the aligners to brush and floss your teeth. Keep up with your orthodontic appointments so that new trays can be made for you throughout the course of treatment. With dedicated wear and by visiting the dental office regularly, you can be out of your Invisalign and enjoying your new, straight smile in no time.

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March 18, 2020August 5, 2019 by Dr Turchin

If you are interested in having a bright white smile, then veneers may be right for you. Dental or porcelain veneers are shells that are bonded to your teeth, and match the color and shade giving patients a beautiful smile.

Veneers are bonded to the front of your teeth using a cement material, and are typically used for chipped, stained, or uneven teeth. Veneers make your teeth look uniform and bright white.

Veneers are made out of porcelain which is a durable material. The veneer material is thin, but is strong, and stain resistant. Typically veneers last anywhere between 10-15 years. Patients must take good care of their teeth to ensure the veneers stay in good condition.

Tips to keep your Veneers looking great:

Avoid biting any hard objects or foods.

Avoid biting your nails as this can damage your veneers.

If you play sports and are active, we recommend to wear a mouthguard to protect your veneers and prevent damage.

If you grind or clench your teeth the veneers are subject to damage and can crack. To prevent damage, we recommend wearing a mouthguard while you sleep.

Keeping up with good oral hygiene with brushing and flossing, as well as your regular dental visits will help to keep your veneers healthy and last for years.

If you are interested in finding out more about veneers, contact us today to schedule your appointment.

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March 18, 2020July 25, 2019 by Dr Turchin

A crown is a cover that is placed over a tooth. The crown helps to save and restore a damaged tooth to its normal shape and size. The procedure allows patients to be able to use their tooth again without damaging what is underneath it. Crowns can help make teeth stronger and look like natural teeth. Crowns are permanently cemented on the damaged tooth, and are one of the most common dental restoration procedures performed.

Dental Crowns are used for the following:

A cracked, weakened, or damaged tooth.
Root canal treatment was done, and you now need a crown.
Tooth is discolored, stained, or misshaped.

Many patients wonder how long crowns will last if they have been recommended to get a crown. Crowns last on average between 5 and 15 years. This depends on the amount of wear and tear on the crown, and if the patient practices good oral hygiene. If crowns are taken care of properly it is common for them to last between 25-30 years.

Patients can extend the life of a crown by not clenching their teeth, following good oral hygiene habits, and not biting down hard on food or objects that may cause damage to the crown.

We recommend routine dental exams and cleanings to ensure your crown looks healthy in your mouth. If at any time you notice a chip or crack in the crown, contact our office and we will take a look to determine if the crown needs replacement. If not treated, cavities can develop underneath crowns, so it is important to contact our office right away if you feel the crown has an issue.

Crowns can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. To find out more about our crown procedures, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.

March 18, 2020July 15, 2019 by Dr Turchin

If you are completely missing one or more of your teeth, implants can help with restoring your smile and getting you to feel more confidence in your appearance. In the past, you may have been told that the only two options available to you to replace a missing tooth were fixed bridges and partial dentures. While both of these restorations are still widely used in the dental industry, implants are more common because they restore a tooth permanently without compromising surrounding teeth.

Why Should You Consider Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a permanent, life-long restoration that is specifically meant to enhance your smile. The surgery itself is relatively noninvasive and commonly performed, so you can have implant placement complete in just an hour. The implant, which is made out of a surgical-grade titanium, will fuse with the jaw bone in under six months. Once the implant has fused with the bone, you can benefit from a completely permanent anchor for crowns and other restorations.

How Long Will Implants Last?
Once an implant has completely healed, you can benefit from having it for the rest of your life. Implants are made out of titanium, so they can withstand a lot of force and pressure no matter how much you clench or grind your teeth. What’s not permanent are the restorations that are placed on top of the implant, like a dental crown. These restorations need to be replaced years or decades depending on the materials and proper hygiene practices. The implant itself will stay in place for decades without any special care or attention.

The Procedure and What to Expect
During the procedure, the doctor will create a small incision into the gums to place the implant. The implant may be secured using a retainer, which is meant to keep the appliance in place. The implant will fuse with the bone in about six months and can then be used as an abutment for crowns or dentures. Our doctors are dedicated to providing you with a high-quality implant that enhances your natural smile.

If you are interested in dental implants and what they can do for your smile, call our office so we can schedule your consultation.

March 18, 2020July 5, 2019 by Dr Turchin

Implants are one of the most popular dental restoration procedures done in our office. Implants give patients that beautiful white smile they desire. At Family Dental Care we offer a few different implant procedures to our patients. Each patient’s needs are unique, and our goal is to help our patients choose the best option that fits their needs.

Traditional Dental Implants:

Andrew Turchin, DMD offers traditional dental implants. This type of implant takes multiple appointments, and is used for patients that have broken, cracked, or missing teeth. Traditionally implants have two steps in the process. The first step is to place the implant in the jawbone. Once the implants have been placed, there is a healing period that has to take place so the implants can fuse to the jawbone. We also evaluate our patients to ensure they have enough bone present to support the implants. If needed, bone grafting can be done to give patients additional bone, and provide the support that is required. This is an additional step that is added to the process if needed.

The healing process takes a few months to complete and this varies per patient. Once the healing process is complete, an abutment or connector is used, and this is placed on top of the implant. We then affix a crown securely on the implant. The crowns are custom made to match each patient’s size, shape, and color of their natural teeth. Temporary crowns may be used while we wait for the permanent crown to be installed.

Implants give patients a strong and reliable tooth restoration option. They are built to last upwards of 15 years or a lifetime. We recommend good oral hygiene and regular dental visits to keep your implants looking and feeling healthy. On average, implants take between four and six months to fully heal, and this varies for each patient.

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants, contact us today to schedule your appointment.

March 18, 2020June 25, 2019 by Dr Turchin

Mini dental implants are similar to traditional dental implants. Typically mini dental implants are used for smaller spaces, or patients that have naturally smaller teeth. Mini implants are smaller compared to traditional implants, and are usually a less expensive option for patients.

With mini dental implants the anchor and abutment are made of one piece and protrude out of the gums. The crown is then secured on top, and this provides a secure base for the crown or dentures used.

Mini dental implants is a faster procedure compared to traditional implants. The recovery for patients is minimal, and in most cases patients can return to their normal routine immediately after the procedure.

Benefits of mini dental implants:

Bone grafting is usually not needed with mini dental implants. This is one less stop in the process, and helps with cost.

The mini dental implant procedure is less involved compared to traditional dental implants.

The screws with mini dental implants are smaller and so are the crowns used. As a result, they usually cost less compared to traditional implants.

Mini implants are durable and reliable and give patients a beautiful smile. If you are interested in finding out if mini dental implants are right for you, contact us today to schedule your appointment.

March 18, 2020June 15, 2019 by Dr Turchin

For patients who are completely missing one or more of their teeth, dental implants can restore your smile and enhance your confidence. Implants are surgically placed underneath the gum line and into the bone of your jaw. In less than six months, the titanium implant fuses with the bone and creates a reliably secure anchor for restorations. The implant is designed to last a lifetime and with proper care, will never need to be repaired or replaced. It is important to give the implant adequate time to heal so that it can securely stay in place.

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
A dental implant does not require compromising surrounding teeth just to fill in an area where a tooth is missing. While fixed dental bridges are still a great option for many patients, they require filing down and reshaping surrounding teeth. Partial dentures can help with replacing missing teeth, but they are removable and may not be for everyone. Dental implants are a lifelong restoration that helps to replace missing dentition without the need to touch other teeth.

Who is a Good Candidate for the Procedure?
Dental implants need to be surgically inserted beneath the gum line and into the bone. If you have poor bone density or have an auto immune disease that can affect your body’s ability to heal, implants may not be the best option for you. Before surgery, we will do an examination and take a series of x-rays to determine if implants are right for you. Most healthy adults who want implants can have them placed. With proper care, your implant will heal in less than six months.

How to Have an Implant Placed
To have an implant placed, you’ll first need to come in to have a consultation with our doctors. The procedure itself involves surgically placing a titanium implant underneath the gums and into the bone. Small holes present in the implant fuse with the bone over the course of several months. Once the implant has fully healed and is securely in place, we can fit you with a dental crown to restore fullness to your smile.

If you’re interested in learning more about dental implants or want to schedule an appointment to have one placed, we’re here to take your call and get you in for a consultation.