The time when the tourist, came to Costa Rica with only a suitcase and a sight seeing itinerary is far behind. Most of them now arrive with the intention of going in for medical treatment or for some cosmetic work. According to statistics across the country, the number of tourists who plan cosmetic procedures while on holiday has risen exponentially, because of highly qualified doctors who offer treatments at unbelievably low prices, performing the procedures at well equipped hospitals that offer world class medical care. To read more go to: www.arrivacostarica.com
Archive for the ‘Dental’ Category
New era for tourism….
Wednesday, August 18th, 2010Veneers
Thursday, July 22nd, 2010Dental veneers are custom-designed shells of a tooth like ceramic material that, when applied over the surface of a tooth, can cover worn tooth enamel, uneven tooth alignment or spacing, and chips or cracks. Those fall into the category of cosmetic dentistry because they create a bright, white smile with beautifully aligned, shaped teeth. Porcelain veneers are stain resistant, and the color of a porcelain veneer can be selected, so that it makes darker teeth appear whiter. Getting dental veneers usually requires three dental visits. For more info: www.arrivacostarica.com
Dental crown
Friday, June 25th, 2010CEREC technology eliminates the need for all of the return visits by milling a new crown in about 30 seconds. Using digital and wireless technology, the physician takes a digital photograph of the tooth and the computer instantly renders a model that becomes the pattern for the crown. The milling machine is in the office and when the dentist sends the information to the machine, it chisels your crown from strong, color matched porcelain material and in only seconds.
Once the crown is made, the dentist simply cements it to the tooth and uses a blue laser light to cure the cement so it hardens right away…. find out more at: www.arrivacostarica.com
TMJ Disorder
Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010TMJ syndrome, or temporomandibular joint disorder. It can affect either of the muscles, tendons, nerves, ligaments, tissues and bones in the jaw and skull. It can obviously have impacts on one’s teeth as well. One may find it difficult to bite and chew and experience an aching pain in some parts of the face. Earaches and headaches are also some of the few things that cannot be avoided because of this condition… more info at: www.arrivacostarica.com
What is a dental bridge?
Thursday, February 18th, 2010A dental bridge is a false tooth or teeth, known as a pontic, which is fused between two porcelain crowns to fill in the area left by a missing tooth or teeth. The two crowns holding it in place that are attached onto your teeth on each side of the false tooth. This is known as a fixed bridge. This procedure is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Fixed bridges cannot be taken out of your mouth as you might do with removable partial dentures.
In areas of your mouth that are under less stress, such as your front teeth, a cantilever bridge may be used. Cantilever bridges are used when there are teeth on only one side of the open space. Bridges can reduce your risk of gum disease, help correct some bite issues and even improve your speech. Bridges require your commitment to serious oral hygiene, but will last as many ten years or more.
How is dental bridge accomplished?
Your cosmetic dentist will prepare your teeth on either side of the space for the false tooth. You will be given a mild anesthetic to numb the area, and the cosmetic dentist will remove the an area of each abutment (teeth on either side of the space) to accommodate for the thickness of the crown. When these teeth already have fillings, part of the filling may be left in place to help as a foundation for the crown.
The dentist will then make an impression, which will serve as the model from which the bridge, false tooth and crowns will be made by a dental laboratory. A temporary bridge will be placed for you to wear while your bridge is being made until your next visit. This temporary bridge will serve to protect your teeth and gums.
Your cosmetic dentist may have you use a Flipper appliance. A Flipper is a false tooth to temporarily take the place of a missing tooth before the permanent bridge is placed. A Flipper can be attached via either a wire or a plastic piece that fits in the roof of your mouth. Flippers are meant to be a temporary solution while awaiting the permanent bridge.
On your second appointment, the temporary bridge will be removed. Your new permanent bridge will be fitted and checked and adjusted for any bite discrepancies. Your new bridge will then be cemented to your teeth.
ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com
Tooth Bonding
Thursday, February 18th, 2010Bonding is a composite resin filling placed in the back teeth as well as the front teeth. Composites are the solution for restoring decayed teeth, making cosmetic improvements and even changing the color of your teeth or the reshaping of teeth. Bonding will lighten any stains you may have, close up minor gaps and can be used to correct crooked teeth. Basically, bonding will cover any natural flaws applying a thin coating of a plastic material on the front surface of your teeth. After this, your cosmetic dentist will apply a bonding material and sculpt, color and shape it to provide a pleasing result. A high-intensity light then hardens the plastic, and the surface is finely polished.
How long does tooth bonding last?
While the traditional silver fillings last about seven years, these composites should last about seven to eleven years.
ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com
Teeth Whitening Safety Tips
Wednesday, December 30th, 2009Dazzling smiles seem to be within everyone’s reach, thanks to the booming teeth whitening business. From over-the-counter whitening strips to dentist office professional treatments, there seems to be no reason to put up with stained or darkening teeth.
Side effects aren’t common when these products are used as directed, but can occur. Before you embark on a do-it-yourself whitening regimen, here are some teeth whitening safety tips to keep your mouth and gums healthy.
See Your Dentist First
Get a professional cleaning and mouth exam, even if you decide to whiten your teeth at home using over-the-counter strips or gels. It could be that all you need is a thorough cleaning to restore your teeth’s sparkling good looks.
The exam can also detect any cavities. Getting the cavity treated first is crucial to keep teeth whitening safe.
Your dentist will assess the health of your gums. If they are inflamed, it’s wise to postpone the whitening.
Ask your dentist for advice about which over-the-counter system to use. Ask your dentist how much lightening you might expect. Teeth do darken with age, and the range of color varies from person to person.
Shop Wisely for Teeth Whitening Products
At-home teeth whitening products contain peroxides, typically carbamide peroxide, in various concentrations — often 10% to 20% or so.
Choose a product with a mid-range bleaching agent — not the lowest concentration and not the highest. If you tolerate it well but aren’t getting the lightening effect you want, you can choose a higher concentration.
Some home teeth whitening products have the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Follow Directions to the Letter
Leaving the strips or gels on longer than advised can irritate the gums. More isn’t better and could lead to problems.
For instance, many over-the-counter teeth whitening strips suggest using for 30 minutes a day for about two weeks. Using longer can increase the risk of gum inflammations and later problems.
After the teeth whitening session, avoid acidic beverages such as soda or sports drinks for a couple of hours to protect your teeth.
Be Realistic
To be on the safe side, pregnant women or nursing mothers should postpone teeth whitening.
Crowns won’t whiten, as products caution. So if you have crowns that show when you smile, teeth whitening might produce an uneven appearance of color.
Be on the Lookout for Sensitive Teeth
Mild and temporary tooth sensitivity can occur with many teeth whitening products. If inflammation or sensitivity are bothersome, discontinue the treatment and speak with your dentist.
If the trays don’t fit well, they can irritate the gums. If you notice that effect, it’s also wise to stop the teeth whitening product.
If your teeth and gums are in good shape, sensitivity is less likely to be an issue.
Don’t Become a Whitening Addict
With the affordability and variety of do-it-yourself teeth whitening products, some consumers think more is better.
How much is too much? After following the directions for whitening, and getting a good result, a once a month preventive or touch up session is usually enough.
When your teeth reach a realistic shade, you only need to repeat the multiple bleaching sessions about twice a year or less.
ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com
What you need to know about Dental Implants
Wednesday, December 30th, 2009What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are replacement tooth roots. Implants provide a strong foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?
There are many advantages to dental implants, including:
- Improved appearance. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. And because they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent.
- Improved speech. With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that your teeth might slip.
- Improved comfort. Because they become part of you, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.
- Easier eating. Sliding dentures can make chewing difficult. Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain.
- Improved self-esteem. Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.
- Improved oral health. Dental implants don’t require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving your long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene.
- Durability. Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.
- Convenience. Removable dentures are just that; removable. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing your dentures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep your dentures in place.
How Successful Are Dental Implants?
Success rates of dental implants vary, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. With proper care (see below), implants can last a lifetime.
Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?
In most cases, anyone healthy enough to undergo a routine dental extraction or oral surgery can be considered for a dental implant. Patients should have healthy gums and enough bone to hold the implant. They also must be committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Heavy smokers, people suffering from uncontrolled chronic disorders – such as diabetes or heart disease – or patients who have had radiation therapy to the head/neck area need to be evaluated on an individual basis. If you are considering implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are right for you.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Dental Implants?
In general, dental implants are not covered by dental insurance at this time. Coverage under your medical plan may be possible, depending on the insurance plan and/or cause of tooth loss. Detailed questions about your individual needs and how they relate to insurance should be discussed with your dentist and your insurance provider.
What Is Involved in Getting a Dental Implant?
The first step in the dental implant process is the development of an individualized treatment plan. The plan addresses your specific needs and is prepared by a team of professionals who are specially trained and experienced in oral surgery and restorative dentistry. This team approach provides coordinated care based on the implant option that is best for you.
Next, the tooth root implant, which is a small post made of titanium, is placed into the bone socket of the missing tooth. As the jawbone heals, it grows around the implanted metal post, anchoring it securely in the jaw. The healing process can take from 6 to 12 weeks.
Once the implant has bonded to the jawbone, a small connector post – called an abutment – is attached to the post to securely hold the new tooth. To make your new tooth or teeth, your dentist makes impressions of your teeth, and creates a model of your bite (which captures all of your teeth, their type, and arrangement). Your new tooth or teeth are based on this model. A replacement tooth, called a crown, is then attached to the abutment.
Instead of one or more individual crowns, some patients may have attachments placed on the implant that retain and support a removable denture.
Your dentist also will match the color of your new teeth to your natural teeth. Because the implant is secured within the jawbone, the replacement teeth look, feel, and function just like your own natural teeth.
How Painful Are Dental Implants?
Most people who have received dental implants say that there is very little discomfort involved in the procedure. Local anesthesia can be used during the procedure, and most patients report that implants involve less pain than a tooth extraction.
After the dental implant, mild soreness can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications, such as Tylenol or Motrin.
How Do I Care for Dental Implants?
Dental implants require the same care as real teeth, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com
Take Years Off Your Appearance With Teeth Whitening Treatments
Monday, December 7th, 2009Professional Teeth whitening is one of the most convenient and effective ways to shred years of your appearance. We all want radiant smiles but often stained or discoursed teeth can prevent us from having that perfect, youthful smile. Professional tooth whitening unlike other teeth whitening product kits is a dental procedure that whitens your teeth using laser advanced technology, capable of removing enamel stain. Popular whitening treatments such as zoom teeth whitening will whiten your teeth dramatically, giving you a beautiful new smile.
Most teeth whitening procedures use a high grade tooth whitening gel that is activated by a high power light laser to achieve the perfect shade. As a procedure laser tooth whitening is quick, painless, safe and most of all effective. Tooth whitening is controllable, allowing a dentist to adjust the level of whitening to meet your needs. Laser teeth whitening will improve your facial appearance by whitening your stained and discoloured teeth up to 10 shades lighter.
Tooth discoloration occurs through both extrinsic staining and intrinsic staining. Extrinsic stains are those that show on the surface of the teeth as a result of exposure to foods, tobacco dark-coloured beverages and routine wear and tear. Intrinsic stains are those that form on the interior of teeth, this is a result of trauma, aging and exposure to minerals. Teeth whitening can remove both extrinsic stains and intrinsic stains.
Teeth whitening can dramatically change the colour of your teeth, this will enhance your entire profile giving you a radiant and confidant smile. If you are looking for a quick way to dramatically enhance your smile, professional teeth whitening may be right chose for you.
ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com
Solving Dental Care Concerns For Anxious Patients
Thursday, December 3rd, 2009Are you afraid of going to the dentist? If so, you are not alone. An estimated one-third of Americans do not go to the dentist because they are afraid of the potential pain and discomfort. This can lead to many problems because cavities, gum disease, and more go undetected and untreated. This can lead to root canals and tooth loss down the road once the pain becomes more than they can bear.
While many dentists claim to “cater to cowards,” even the nicest of dentists can still leave their patients nervous wrecks. Sedation dentistry is a completely different approach to treating patients and their teeth.
Sedation dentistry is used to provide a relaxing and calming experience for the patient. This is achieved by using varying levels of treatment depending on the patient and the procedure. The most common form is nitrous oxide which is administered throughout the procedure through a nasal mask or hood. The patient still knows what is going on around him, but is much calmer and more relaxed. It also serves to numb the gums, which can make injections easier.
Another option is IV sedation, which delivers the medication intravenously for an immediate result. Unlike nitrous oxide, it induces more of a sleep-like consciousness. It is best used when patients are extremely anxious or scared.
For those who do not like needles, a third option is oral conscious sedation. One benefit of this treatment is that patients do not remember the experience, although they are able to move and respond to the dentist throughout.
Because of the serious nature of the medication, people who use any of these treatments during their dental procedure will need to be driven home. The medication does not wear off quickly enough for the patient to have recovered sufficiently to drive.
If you are afraid of the dentist, that is not reason to put off the treatment that you desperately need for proper dental health. Talk to your dentist about whether he or she performs sedation dentistry. If not, you should look into finding someone else in your area that does.
ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com