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Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns

Archive for the ‘ Dentistry / Dental ’ Category



Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns

Posted on: March 13th, 2024 by admin

Have you ever wondered what a dental crown is, and how it works? If so, then you’ve come to the right place! This article will provide you with all the necessary information about dental crowns, including what they are, their uses, and how to properly care for them. So whether you’re considering getting one or just curious about what a dental crown can do for your oral health, this guide will enlighten you on everything you need to know about dental crowns.

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/men-s-gray-crew-neck-shirt-160914/

A dental crown is an artificial covering that fits over the visible part of a tooth, restoring its shape and size. It is used to protect a weakened or damaged tooth from further decay, while also restoring the appearance of the smile. Crowns can be made from several different materials including porcelain, metal alloys, composite resin, and zirconium oxide. Depending on the material, crowns can be customized to match the color of natural teeth and blend in with the rest of your smile.

There are several uses for dental crowns, including restoring a broken tooth, protecting a weak tooth from further decay, covering up discoloration or staining that cannot be fixed by bleaching, and replacing a single missing tooth. Crowns can also be used to hold a bridge in place, or as part of an implant-supported prosthesis.

When caring for your dental crown, make sure to brush and floss daily to keep the area clean. It is also important to avoid biting down on hard objects like ice cubes or hard candy, as this could damage the crown or even result in a broken tooth. If you experience pain or discomfort associated with your crown, be sure to contact your dentist as soon as possible.

Finally, it is important to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. During these visits, the doctor will examine the crowns to make sure they are still properly seated and functioning correctly. Your dentist can also provide advice on how to maintain your crowns and ensure they are in top condition for years to come.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • – Brush and floss daily to keep the area clean
  • – Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice cubes or hard candy
  • – Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
  • – Contact your dentist if you experience any pain or discomfort associated with your crowns

With proper care, dental crowns can protect and enhance your smile for many years. Speak to your dentist if you have any questions or concerns about getting a dental crown.

How to Care for Your Teeth in Manahawkin, NJ

Posted on: February 21st, 2024 by admin

The first line of defense in the war against all things that harm your mouth – tooth decay, gum disease and more – is a deceptive simple weapon: your toothbrush. It’s the tool that will give you great teeth in Manahawkin!

The toothbrush has been around for millennia, though not always as we know it. The ancient Egyptians frayed tiny branches in order to create their toothbrushes. The 15 Century Chinese used natural bristles to create something very much like to the brushes we use today. But it was less than 100 years ago, in the 1930s, when nylon was invented and toothbrushes finally became modern.

Modern toothbrushes have been refined and redesigned over the decades, with many fine adjustments helping them become more effective at keeping your teeth clean.

But without YOU, your toothbrush can’t do its job properly. Here is what you need to know:

How to Brush Properly

A surprising number of people do not brush their teeth properly. Even though this is part of our daily routine and it seems like it should be easy, over time even the best of us can develop up bad habits. Once formed, bad habits are hard to break – and when they are bad brushing habits, they can make your brushing far less effective.

Here is some advice to keep in mind:

  • Brush twice a day, three times if possible
  • Each brushing session should last two minutes
  • Use short strokes when you brush
  • Don’t forget to brush your tongue (gently)!
  • Brushing too hard can damage your enamel, so don’t do it!

A good way to be sure that you brush effectively is to divide your mouth into four quadrants: bottom left, bottom right, top left, top right. Brush in each quadrant for 30 seconds, using short, and gentle strokes and/or swirls. If you do this two to three times per day, you’ll be well on your way to taking amazing care of your teeth!

Once you’ve mastered brushing, the next step is to keep your toothbrush in good shape.

 

How To Care For Your Toothbrush

Your toothbrush is your best tool for ensuring you have a healthy mouth, so naturally you’ll want to take care of it. Toothbrushes that are a gnarled, mangled mess won’t do a good of keeping your mouth fresh and clean.

In order to keep yours in great shape, follow these tips:

  • Do not ever share your toothbrush!
  • Be sure to brush gently; let the bristles do the work
  • Be sure to thoroughly rinse the toothbrush after you’re done
  • To keep microorganism growth to a minimum, don’t store your toothbrush in a closed container
  • Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months

Remember, your toothbrush is the single most important part of your oral health routine. Treat it poorly and it will treat your mouth poorly. Treat it well, however, and you can have many years of excellent oral health. When you visit your dentist near Manahawkin, they’ll notice the difference!

And isn’t that what this is all about? Having the healthiest mouth possible?

Brushing Up On the Basics: An Overview of Different Types of Toothbrushes

Posted on: February 7th, 2024 by admin

Toothbrushes have come a long way over the years, evolving from rudimentary twig-and-string contraptions to electric rotary models with multiple brush heads – and as dentists in Ocean County, we couldn’t be happier! While the technology has certainly improved, so has our awareness of the various types of toothbrushes out there and how they can benefit our oral health. Let’s look at an overview of the different types of toothbrushes – from manual to power – to help you choose the one that is right for you.

Manual Toothbrushes

A manual toothbrush is the most common type of brush and typically consists of a handle with a head that holds rows of bristles. Manual toothbrushes are available in soft, medium or hard varieties, depending on your preference and/or dentist’s recommendation. In general, softer bristles are recommended for sensitive gums, whereas harder bristles are good for getting rid of plaque.

Electric Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes are an increasingly popular choice due to their ease-of-use and ability to make brushing more effective and efficient. The two main types of electric toothbrush are the rotary brush (which oscillates back and forth) and the sonic brush (which vibrates back and forth). Electric brushes are available with both single-head and multiple-head designs, giving you the option of brushing more than one area of your mouth at a time.

Bass Toothbrushes

Bass toothbrushes represent an alternative form of manual brushing that involves moving the brush in an up-and-down, or ‘bass’ motion. This up-and-down movement is designed to allow the bristles to reach between teeth and further down into the gums, helping to clean more effectively and remove plaque.

Interdental Brushes

Interdental brushes are small, cylindrical or tapered brushes that come in a variety of sizes. These brushes are specifically designed for cleaning between teeth, which can be difficult to reach with a regular toothbrush. They are available in both manual and electric varieties, as well as a range of sizes for different sized gaps between teeth.

Tongue Scrapers

Tongue scrapers are metal or plastic tools designed to help remove bacteria from the tongue. By scraping gently over the tongue surface, they can help to reduce bad breath and maintain overall oral hygiene. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, depending on the shape of your tongue.

Finally, here are some tips on how to care for your toothbrush:

  • Rinse it thoroughly after every brushing session to remove bacteria, food particles and plaque
  • Change your toothbrush every 3 months or sooner if bristles become bent or frayed
  • Store the toothbrush in a clean, dry place away from other toothbrushes to avoid cross contamination of bacteria
  • Avoid sharing your toothbrush with others
  • Store it in an upright position and allow it to air dry after use.
  • Change your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
  • Avoid sharing your toothbrush with others to prevent the spread of germs.
  • Keep your toothbrush away from areas with high levels of humidity, such as bathrooms.

Want to know more? Reach out to our Ocean County dentists at 609-698-1155 or by using our contact form.

5 times you need to see a dentist ASAP

Posted on: January 31st, 2024 by admin

If you’re like most people, you’ll invent a host of reasons to avoid seeing your dentist. Don’t worry, we’re not insulted. We’re used to it by now!

But the fact of the matter is, if you begin to experience one of these five conditions, you really need to see your Barnegat dentist as soon as possible. It may help you avoid a lot of misery down the road!

Toothache

A toothache is nothing to take lightly. The pain you’re experiencing is a sign that something is wrong. You may feel as if you can tolerate the pain or that you can “tough it out,” but letting a toothache go unaddressed is asking for trouble. Whatever the cause of your pain, your condition could worsen. In a worst case scenario, you could even end up losing the tooth. Better to address it early, when there’s a good possibility the issue can be fixed with minimal fuss.

Chronic Bad Breath

Everyone gets bad breath every now and then. It’s common and can be easily triggered by the things we eat. A normal bout of bad breath is nothing to worry about. Chronic bad breath, on the other hand, is a sign of deeper problems that must be addressed. It may be “only” as serious as gum disease, which you’ll want to catch early to begin treatment. It can also be a sign of more serious issues than that. If you suffer from chronic bad breath, it’s important to have your dentist take a look as soon as possible so serious problems can be treated early.

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Cracked or Chipped Teeth

One of the most common problems any dentist in Ocean County, NJ near Forked River will deal with are cracked and chipped teeth. The good news is that modern cosmetic dentistry is effective and affordable, with many options available to you. The bad news is, left unaddressed, some issues like this become more than a cosmetic issue. Cracked teeth can cause persistent pain and can lead to serious infections that may put your other teeth in danger, too. Even if you don’t mind how they look, at the very least you should have your dentist examine them to be sure your teeth are in no danger of future issues.

Jaw Pain

Pain in the jaw can come from a number of courses, including toothaches, sinus infections, and more. If you are feeling persistent jaw pain, have it examined by your Ocean County, NJ dentist near Manahawkin to determine the source of the problem. As with anything, the key to avoiding serious issues is to catch them early.

Bleeding Gums

If you experience bleeding gums during/after brushing, there may be an issue that needs addressing. In many cases bleeding gums are merely caused by improper brushing techniques. That is easy to fix. In other cases, however, they may be a sign of gingivitis or other underlying issues. As with all such issues, catching them early gives you the best chance of avoiding more serious complications.

If you experience any of these conditions and live in Barnegat, Forked River / Lacey, Manahawkin, or other areas of Southern Ocean County, call to make an appointment today!

These 5 oral health problems are more common than you think

Posted on: January 17th, 2024 by admin

We all have mouths – life would be hard without one – and we all need to take care of them. The thing about oral health is that it’s a diverse area. Some dental problems are minor and some can be simply devastating. What sort of problems? Read along as we count down the five most common dental problems in America and to see just what is making people (and their teeth) suffer out there:

lion-teeth-pexels-photo-684215) Mouth Sores

There are many different types of mouth sores. Among the most common are canker sores, fever blisters, cold sores and ulcers. All of them can be terribly bothersome. The good news is, most mouth sores are never much more than a nuisance. They go away after a few weeks at most. Once in a while one can point to a bigger problem, so if a mouth sore lasts for more than two weeks be sure to see your dentist near Manahawkin. However, in most cases these are pretty low on the priority list of oral health problems to be concerned about.

4) Oral Cancer

Many other types of cancer get a lot more spotlight, but the truth is, some 300,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year. In fact, at any given time millions are affected by it. Like all types of cancer, it can be deadly if left untreated. It can also lead to severe damage to the mouth, lips and throat. The good news is that oral cancer is highly treatable if caught early – and the best way to catch it early is with regular visits to your dentist.

3) Gum Disease

Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is when your gums become infected. This can start with simple gingivitis, but when gum disease progresses it can lead to tooth loss. In fact, gum disease is cited as the biggest cause of tooth loss among adults in America. The best way to combat this malady is by following the daily oral health routine suggested by your dentist near Manahawkin.

2) Cavities

Cavities, also known as tooth decay, is not just one of the most common oral health problems in the country, it’s actually one of the most common health problems overall, affecting about as many people as the common cold. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and watching what you eat are your best defenses against this common problem. Tooth decay is caused when plaque buildup and sugars combine to eat away at your tooth enamel and the teeth themselves. This is a problem where prevention is the best approach, because once it progresses too far there is no reversing it. It will take major dentistry to fix the issue.

1) Bad Breath

There is no oral health problem more common than bad breath, also known as halitosis. Bad breath can be caused by many things, but in the majority of cases – more than 4 out of 5 cases, in fact – a simple dental condition is to blame. They can include dry mouth, cavities, gum disease, bacteria on the tongue and others. All of these can all be causes of bad breath. If you have persistent bad breath, you should visit your dental office, because mouth wash only covers the problem, it doesn’t cure it.

Discovering the Truth about your Tongue: A Guide to Keeping it Clean and Healthy

Posted on: January 11th, 2024 by admin

Your tongue is a vital organ that plays numerous roles in your body such as tasting, speaking, and swallowing. It’s a muscle with an intricate network of nerves, blood vessels, and taste buds that work together to ensure that you enjoy all the different flavors of your favorite foods. Furthermore, your tongue is also a great indicator of your overall health, as certain conditions often manifest with symptoms on your tongue. Let’s take a closer look at the different ailments that can affect your tongue and the best practices to keep it clean and healthy for optimal well-being.

1. Common Ailments of the Tongue

Your tongue can develop numerous ailments that reflect underlying medical conditions or oral hygiene issues. One of the more common conditions that affect the tongue is thrush, which is a fungal infection that causes painful and white sores on your tongue. Another common ailment is geographic tongue, which results in a map-like appearance on the surface of your tongue. Tongue sores may also be indicative of oral cancer or vitamin deficiencies. It is, therefore, crucial to seek professional advice if you experience persistent tongue sores, lesions, or any other irregularities.

2. How to Keep Your Tongue Clean and Healthy

Keeping your tongue clean and healthy should be part of your daily oral hygiene routine. You can start with regular brushing of your tongue using a soft-bristled brush or a tongue scraper. This practice helps to remove food particles, bacteria, dead cells, and fungi that accumulate on your tongue. You can also rinse your mouth with a mouthwash containing antiseptic agents that kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Drinking plenty of water helps to eliminate bacteria and toxins from your mouth and keep your tongue well hydrated.

3. The Importance of Diet in Tongue Health

Your diet plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your tongue. Consuming a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals can help to boost immunity and prevent the development of tongue problems. Include plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources like fish and chicken in your diet. Avoid consuming excess sugary or acidic foods and beverages, which can erode tooth enamel and cause painful tongue sores.

4. Knowing When to See a Doctor for Tongue Issues

While cleaning your tongue regularly is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene, it is crucial to seek professional advice if you experience any tongue problems. Common signs that you need to see a doctor include persistent tongue pain, swelling, sores, ulcers, or any other unusual changes in your tongue’s appearance. In some cases, your tongue issues may be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires prompt intervention.

5. The Connection Between Oral Hygiene and Overall Health

Good oral hygiene practices like cleaning your tongue regularly can help prevent detrimental impacts on your overall health. Research has shown that poor oral hygiene can lead to numerous medical conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory infections. When you keep your tongue clean and healthy, you reduce your risk of bacteria accumulation in your mouth, which is one of the leading causes of these medical conditions.

Your tongue is an essential organ that plays a vital role in your overall health and well-being. Keeping it clean and healthy is easy, and it should be part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Ensure that you brush or scrape your tongue daily, consume a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and seek professional advice from your Ocean County dentist if you experience any problems with your tongue. Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical to reducing the risk of oral diseases and promoting better overall health.

An Easy-to-Understand Guide to Dental Braces

Posted on: January 3rd, 2024 by admin

For many people, the decision to get dental braces is an easy one. But for some, it can be a little more complicated. If you’re on the fence about whether or not to get braces, this article will help make your decision easier. In this post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about getting braces – from what they are, to how much they cost, to how long they will need to be worn. We’ll also dispel some of the myths that often surround dental braces. So if you’re curious about braces but don’t know where to start, read on!

What Are Dental Braces?

Dental braces are custom-fitted orthodontic devices that are used to straighten and align the teeth. Braces are typically composed of brackets, archwires, and ligatures. The brackets are made from either metal or ceramic and are affixed to each tooth with dental cement. The archwire is then attached to the brackets, which puts gentle pressure on the teeth in order for them to move into proper alignment. Additionally, small elastic bands (ligatures) may be used in some cases to join the brackets together.

How Much Do Braces Cost?

The cost of braces can vary greatly depending on several factors such as type of treatment and how long it will take. Keep in mind that insurance may cover some or all of the cost of braces. It’s always a good idea to contact your insurance provider before starting any type of orthodontic treatment to find out what is covered and what isn’t.

How Long Do Braces Need To Be Worn?

The amount of time needed to wear braces depends on the severity of the misalignment and other factors specific to each individual case. On average, most people will need to wear braces for 12-18 months in order for their teeth to be properly aligned. However, there are also cases where more than 18 months may be necessary.

Dispelling Common Myths About Braces

There are many myths surrounding the use of dental braces, but most of them simply aren’t true. Here are some of the most common myths and the facts about each one:

• Myth: Braces will hurt for a long time after they’re put on. Fact: The discomfort associated with getting braces is usually short-lived and can easily be managed with over-the-counter pain medications or ice/heat therapy.

• Myth: Braces make it difficult to clean your teeth. Fact: With proper oral hygiene habits, cleaning your teeth while wearing braces is actually quite easy! You just need to use special tools such as interdental brushes and floss threaders.

• Myth: Braces are only for teens and children. Fact: While it’s true that many people get braces when they’re young, there is no age limit – adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment!

Now that you know all the facts about dental braces, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to get them. Remember, getting braces is a big commitment but it can have a huge positive impact on your oral health and overall wellbeing. So if you think braces may be right for you, don’t hesitate to contact your local dentist today!

Beware! These 7 Foods and Drinks Will Stain Your Teeth

Posted on: December 20th, 2023 by admin

Oh no! These 7 Foods and Drinks Will Stain Your Teeth

Do you want a white smile? If so, then you need to avoid these seven foods and drinks! They are known to stain teeth and cause yellowing over time. If you can’t give up these items entirely, then be sure to brush your teeth regularly and use a teeth whitening toothpaste or treatment. With a little effort, you can keep your pearly whites looking great for years to come!

1. Coffee: Everyone loves a good cup of joe in the morning, but unfortunately it can also stain your teeth. The dark pigments in coffee stick to your enamel and cause yellowing if you don’t brush soon after drinking. Consider cutting back or using a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.

2. Tea: Like coffee, tea contains tannins which can cause yellow discoloration over time. Herbal teas are usually better for your teeth as they contain fewer staining agents than black or oolong tea varieties.

3. Red Wine: This type of alcohol is especially bad for tooth coloration due to its high levels of chromogens and tannins. Try switching to white wine or another lighter alcoholic beverage.

4. Berries: Unfortunately, many of our favorite summer fruits can cause tooth discoloration. Berries such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are known to stain teeth due to their dark pigment levels.

5. Dark Sodas: The deep brown hues in these bubbly drinks may look delicious but they can wreak havoc on your teeth if you don’t brush after drinking them! Try switching to clear or light-colored sodas instead.

6. Curry: This flavorful dish is a staple of Indian cuisine but it’s also known for causing yellowing of the teeth due to its high levels of turmeric and other spices. If you can’t give it up entirely, then be sure to brush afterwards.

7. Soy Sauce: This dark condiment is often used in Asian dishes and can cause tooth discoloration if you don’t brush soon after consuming it. Try opting for low-sodium versions which will contain fewer staining agents.

By avoiding these seven foods and drinks, you can keep your teeth looking white and bright for years to come! Be sure to also brush regularly and use a teeth whitening toothpaste or treatment if needed. With a little effort, you’ll have the perfect pearly whites!

Don’t Let Mouth Sores Bother You: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on: December 13th, 2023 by admin

Mouth sores are common and can be bothersome and painful. They can affect anyone, from children to older people. But, what exactly are they, and what causes them? What should you do if you develop one, and how can you prevent them from happening in the future? Let’s take a closer look at the various types of mouth sores, their symptoms, causes, treatments, and prevention methods.

There are several types of mouth sores, but the most common ones include canker sores, cold sores, and fever blisters. Canker sores are small, white or yellowish, round or oval-shaped sores that occur inside the mouth, while cold sores and fever blisters are groups of tiny, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips, chin, or cheeks. They are caused by different things, though.

Canker sores are often linked to stress, injury to the mouth, certain foods like spicy or acidic foods, and even hormonal changes. On the other hand, cold sores and fever blisters are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and are highly contagious. They can spread through kissing, sharing utensils, or coming in contact with the fluid in the blisters.

The good news is that most mouth sores go away on their own within a couple of weeks, but there are ways to alleviate the pain and speed up the healing process. For instance, using over-the-counter pain relievers, applying numbing gels, gargling with saltwater, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods can help. For cold sores and fever blisters, antiviral medication is recommended.

Prevention is key when it comes to mouth sores. There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing them in the first place. This includes avoiding hot, spicy, or acidic foods, brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, wearing a mouthguard if you play sports, and avoiding triggers that may lead to stress or anxiety.

Another important element of preventive care is maintaining good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly. Your dentist can also diagnose and treat any underlying oral health problems that may contribute to the development of mouth sores. This can include gum disease, tooth decay, or oral infections.

Mouth sores can be painful and uncomfortable, but they are usually not serious and can be treated or prevented with the right care. Knowing the different types of mouth sores, their causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention methods can help you stay one step ahead and avoid unnecessary pain or discomfort. If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, or if your mouth sore persists for more than two weeks, it’s important to see your local dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What you need to know about dental implants

Posted on: December 6th, 2023 by admin

Do you know the most common reasons people get dental implants? If not, don’t worry – you’re about to find out! In this article, we will discuss some of the most common reasons people opt for dental implants. We’ll also describe the different types of dental implants and how and why each type is used. Finally, we’ll help you decide which type of implant might be best for you depending on your symptoms and circumstances.

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

One of the most common reasons people get dental implants is to replace one or more missing teeth. If you have lost a tooth (or teeth) due to injury, disease, or some other reason, dental implants can provide a great way to restore your smile. Not only do dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, but they also help to prevent bone loss in the jaw and can improve your overall oral health.

Another common reason people get dental implants is to support a denture or bridge. If you have a denture or bridge that is loose or uncomfortable, dental implants can provide added support and stability. This can make it easier to eat and speak and can improve your overall quality of life.

Finally, some people get dental implants for cosmetic reasons. If you are unhappy with the way your teeth look, dental implants can give you the boost of confidence you need to smile with pride.

Now that you know some of the most common reasons people get dental implants, let’s discuss the different types of implants in more detail.

  • Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are placed directly into the jawbone and are used to support a single tooth, a denture, or a bridge. Endosteal implants are made of titanium and have a small screw-like structure. Once in place, they provide a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth.
  • Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but on top of the jawbone. They are used for people who do not have enough bone height for endosteal implants or for people who cannot have surgery to place endosteal implants. Subperiosteal implants are made of metal framework that fits over the jawbone. Once in place, they provide a stable base for replacement teeth.
  • Mini dental implants are a smaller version of endosteal implants and are used to support a denture or bridge. Mini dental implants are less invasive than other types of dental implants and can be placed in a single visit. They are also less likely to cause damage to surrounding teeth.
  • Zygomatic implants are placed in the cheekbone and are used for people who have lost all of their teeth in the upper jaw. Zygomatic implants are longer and wider than other types of dental implants and provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth.

Now that you know the different types of dental implants, you may be wondering which type is right for you. The best way to determine this is to consult with a qualified oral surgeon. They will evaluate your individual needs and recommend the type of implant that is best for you.

No matter what your reason for getting dental implants, it’s important to choose a reputable and experienced implant Forked River dentist. At our Barnegat office, we have over decades of experience placing and restoring dental implants. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that your procedure is safe, comfortable, and successful.

If you are interested in learning more about dental implants or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us today. We would be happy to answer any questions you have and help you determine if dental implants are right for you.