Dental options for Seniors with few teeth left

Seniors have special dental care needs. Most of the time, they have some or most of their teeth missing. In addition, their gums are usually in poor shape.

However, this does not mean that they no longer need to see a dentist, they actually have more or a reason to visit one and regularly too in order for them to save the remaining teeth they have.

The following are the most common dental options for seniors with only a few teeth left:

1. Bridges

   Dental bridges are appliances that replace missing teeth. They are fixed in place and can no longer be removed.

   There are three main kinds of dental bridges:

   • Traditional bridges

     A crown is created on either side of the missing tooth, with an artificial tooth or pontic in between. These are usually made out of porcelain. They are usually the preferred option because they look like natural teeth.

   • Cantilever bridges

     These are used when there are adjacent teeth on the same side as the missing tooth or teeth. These are not commonly used as they put too much force on the existing teeth and could damage them.

   • Maryland bonded bridges

     These are also made of porcelain and are fused to metal or plastic teeth and gums. They are bonded to your existing teeth.

2. Dental Implants

   If money is not an issue, dental implants are really the best choice. They look like your natural teeth and can last for the rest of your life if properly cared for.

   However, this may not be a viable option for some seniors as their gums or the bones in their jaws can no longer support a dental implant. Additionally, they may not have that many years left to justify the cost of a dental implant.

3. Dentures

   These are removable dental appliances which are used to replace both missing teeth and their surround tissue and gums. They are made to look like natural teeth and make you appear to have a perfect smile.

   There are 2 types of dentures:

   • Complete dentures
   • Partial dentures

Dentist in Greenwich, CT offers gum disease treatment

When conditions such as periodontal disease have developed within the smile, it is important for patients to be proactive and speak to a dentist as soon as possible. This allows them to get a proper diagnosis as to which stage the condition has reached, which then allows them to develop an appropriate treatment plan to combat the infection. Patients in the Greenwich, CT area who are seeking a dentist for their smile are encouraged to call Chester Hill Dental Associates.

Periodontal disease, sometimes referred to as gum disease, is an infection of the mouth. It starts out in the gum tissues but then spreads. All areas of the mouth are affected including the soft tissues, the teeth, and the bone of the jaw. This condition is completely preventable with proper oral health care habits, and once it has developed, it cannot be cured. However, with the help of a dental professional, patients can reduce the infection and control the condition as much as possible—keeping it from spreading and becoming even more detrimental to the health of the smile.

Periodontal disease comes in various stages. The earlier stage, called gingivitis, is the easiest to treat. It often requires a thorough cleaning of the gums and teeth. However, if the condition has been left to progress further, it may reach the stages of periodontitis, during which antibiotics may need to be integrated into the treatment plan. A procedure called scaling and root planing may also be suggested as a way to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from all surfaces of the teeth, including the roots. This is a more invasive procedure.

Drs. Chi D. Fu and Kay T. Oen of Chester Hill Dental Associates, PLLC encourages patients to be proactive about their oral health and wellness. When problems such as periodontal disease are present, it is essential that patients see their dental professional as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and to discuss treatment options. The practice is conveniently located at 150 Purchase Street, Suite 1 and can be reached by phone at (914) 939-2132.

Rye, NY Area Dentist Describes the Differences Between Porcelain Veneers and Lumineers

Patients who are interested in visiting a dentist in the Rye, NY area who offers cosmetic dentistry solutions for unattractive teeth are encouraged to visit the practice of Chester Hill Dentistry. Drs. Chi Fu and Kay Oen provide patients with ways to address imperfections that may negatively affect the appearance of the smile. This includes the chance to cover areas of the smile with porcelain veneers or Lumineers.

Both porcelain veneers and Lumineers are types of ceramic facings meant to bond over the front of a tooth to cover up imperfections or change the overall appearance. These facings are opaque but look like natural tooth enamel. They provide a natural-looking way of addressing areas of the smile that need to be improved. However, there are some differences between the two that patients need to understand before choosing one for their smile.

Porcelain veneers are thicker than Lumineers, and require the removal of some natural tooth enamel to place without adding unwanted bulk. Because of this, the treatment is not reversible. Patients will experience permanent changes to their natural teeth for the replacement of veneers. Lumineers, on the other hand, are much thinner. Because of this, there is no need to file down the tooth to remove enamel. This makes them removable later on down the road if patients change their mind on treatment.

Lumineers and porcelain veneers have their benefits, and patients should consult with their dental team to determine which one is right for their specific needs. A consultation appointment is just a phone call away and can educate patients on the treatment as well as which is most appropriate.

At Chester Hill Dentistry, we want patients to have access to some of the latest and greatest dental techniques available. This includes the ability to choose between traditional porcelain veneers and Lumineers. Our practice is conveniently located at 150 Purchase Street, Suite 1 in Rye, NY and can be reached by calling (914) 939-2132 to schedule a consultation appointment. Drs. Chi Fu and Kay Oen regularly accept new and existing patients into their practice to encourage lifelong beautiful, healthy smiles!

Dentist Greenwich CT discusses the damage nuts can cause to teeth.

As the season of dry fruits arrives, none can be more scintillating and delicious than the wide variety of dry nuts at our disposal. But have you considered the jeopardy and harm against which you are exposing your teeth? While this may seem an exaggerated statement, despite the goodness and wholesomeness of dry nuts for health, this fruit can be typically devastating to your teeth.

The problem does not lie with the inner soft, juicy, and tasty fruit, but the outer hardcore shell. Unfortunately, most people have this habit of breaking a nut’s shell with their teeth, instead of breaking it with other solid material, such as a small hammer or nutcracker. The force and the shock of a sudden breaking of the shell puts much strain and pressure on our tooth nerves and can shatter its enamel.

People who use their teeth as tools to break or rip apart hard materials are likely to suffer from tooth fracture or weak tooth. This happens because our teeth are not made for tasks which involve ripping or breaking apart hard materials. Teeth are made to chew soft food and it is best if we confine them to this use only. It is not only limited to breaking up a nut’s shell but many people also directly use their teeth in doing things like:

• Chewing and breaking ice cubes
• Opening bottle caps
• Opening packages by ripping them apart via teeth

The latest studies and professional dentist’s all around the world are in agreement that such bad habits may cause severe damage, and could even break or crack the tooth. In the case a tooth is fractured, the tooth nerve may also become infected by germs and could result in a root canal. The patient may also need to replace the tooth completely by getting help from a cosmetic dentistry solution.

So, to avoid such a scenario, make sure that this year while you enjoy a huge appetite of hard dry fruits, avoid using your teeth to break off the shells and use some other solid material in their place. Remember, ensuring healthy dental habits is your responsibility so adhere fully to it, for your own benefit and safety.

Cosmetic dentist explains the differences of porcelain veneers and Lumineers to Rye, NY area patients

Patients in the Rye, NY area seeking a dentist who provides a variety of cosmetic procedures are welcome to book a visit with the staff at Chester Hill Dental Associates, PLLC. Drs. Chi Fu and Kay Oen are two dentists in the area who offer a wide range of treatments at their practice for patients who want to enhance their smiles. From professional teeth whitening to extensive smile rehabilitation, they provide it all. They are also excited to offer patients solutions such as porcelain veneers and Lumineers.

Porcelain veneers and Lumineers are both types of veneers that are used to disguise problems within the smile. These are facings bonded to the front of a tooth for optimum coverage. Concerns such as gaps between teeth, broken teeth, or teeth that are misaligned are easily resolved with the use of veneers. Drs. Chi Fu and Kay Oen are proud to offer both varieties for patients and help them understand the different.

The primary difference between traditional porcelain veneers and Lumineers is the amount of tooth structure removed for the placement. Conventional veneers require the removal of enamel from the front of the tooth before impressions are taken. This eliminates added bulk to the teeth when the veneers are bonded in place. However, Lumineers are extremely thin and do not require preparation of the tooth. This means not only does the patient get to maintain their natural tooth structure, but the procedure can be reversed later as it does not permanently impact the tooth itself. This is highly beneficial for many of our patients who may be unsure as to whether or not they want to make permanent changes to their natural teeth for porcelain veneers.

Drs. Chi Fu and Kay Oen of Chester Hill Dental Associates, PLLC offer services to patients in and around the area of Westchester, Rye Brook, Port Chester, Greenwich, and Rye, NY. Contact their team today to schedule a consultation appointment and speak to a cosmetic dentist with knowledge of the many ways in which Lumineers and porcelain veneers can be used to enhance the smile. Call (914) 939-2132 or visit in person at 150 Purchase Street, Suite 1 in Rye, NY.

Discover Answers to Your Coverage Questions

Insurance can have a lot of moving parts to keep track of, understand, and use to your advantage. Luckily for you, to help explain and get the most of your coverage, your Rye NY dentist Dr. Fu has staff members specially trained in the art of “decoding” dental insurance for you. You can always reach out to our office before your next appointment to review the ins and outs of your plan, but in the event you wanted to check out some of that information on your own at home, below are some definitions and tips that may be of help.

The Terms to Know

• Deductible:

  the amount you first must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance company will start to cover the cost of treatment.

• Co-Pay:

  a fixed amount you must pay for a service or appointment. Your provider will set this amount for you before purchasing your plan.

• Co-Insurance:

  a plan where you pay only certain percentages of the cost of a service.

• Annual Maximum:

  the highest possible amount an insurance company will pay for services within a specific time frame, typically within a calendar year.

Tips to Get the Most of Your Plan

Make sure to review what your dental insurance will cover and make the most of it! A majority of plans will cover your twice-yearly recommended dental cleanings and exams, so make sure to schedule those visits with us! These cleanings can help save you from more substantial dental issues which can result in loss of money, time, and cause discomfort.

While taking full advantage of your plan, it is also important to track what you have used responsibly. Going over your maximum coverage can result in paying out of pocket, which can be both costly and inconvenient.

For more information on how your Rye NY dentist can help you maximize your dental benefits- give us a call today at (914) 939-2132.

Teeth whitening provides amazing results for Westchester, NY area patients seeking a brighter smile

A bright, brilliant smile can exude beauty, health, and confidence. However, not everyone has a naturally beautiful smile that is as white as a Hollywood grin. Many patients also struggle with darkening of their teeth due to the foods and drinks they enjoy. When patients are unhappy with the color of their natural teeth, they often begin to look at teeth whitening options available to them in the Westchester, NY area. This may include visiting Chester Hill Dental Associates to learn about professional-grade solutions.

Discoloration of the teeth can be addressed with one of two teeth whitening options available at our practice. The first is our in-office power bleaching. This method utilizes peroxide gel that is administered onto the surfaces of the tooth enamel and activated using a special whitening light. By doing this, patients can have a whiter smile in as little as one hour. Additionally, we provide take-home whitening trays which some patients may prefer if they are interested in a more economical solution with gradual results. These trays are custom-made for our patients right in our practice using impressions of the smile for precise fit and function. Patients are sent home with bleaching gel to use with the trays to brighten their smile in the privacy of their own homes.

Both whitening options available at Chester Hill Dental Associates are quality, professional-grade treatment solutions that are not available over-the-counter. Many drugstore offerings do not have the high concentration of bleaching gel that can effectively brighten the smile and provide long-lasting results. This is why many patients turn to dental practices for their services to see amazing brilliance in a short period of time.

Drs. Chi Fu and Kay Oen of Chester Hill Dental Associates encourage patients to avoid the over-the-counter treatment options and consider brightening the smile with professional-grade products instead. Contact their practice today by calling (914) 939-2132 and speaking with our quality staff about scheduling an appointment. our practice is located at 150 Purchase Street, Suite 1 in Rye, NY servicing patients in and around the community—including Westchester, NY.

Greenwich CT Cosmetic Dentist Emphasizes Importance of Wearing a Mouth Guard While Playing Sports

As enjoyable and benefitting as sports can be, there are moments when accidents happen and a patient can suffer from dental trauma. It’s a no-brainer to wear helmets, shin guards, and shoulder and knee pads when you’re playing sports, but what about your teeth? Athletes, typically kids and teens, will avoid wearing mouth guards if it’s not mandatory. More than 40% of all sports injuries involve the face, typically the teeth, lips, and gums. Learn more about mouth guards, what types there are, and why the use of mouth guards can save your smile with the help of your Greenwich CT cosmetic dentist.

A mouth guard is a protective and comfortable piece of athletic gear that goes over your teeth in order to save any potential issues from occurring on your teeth, lips, gums, tongue, jaw, and overall facial structure. There is also research that shows wearing mouth guards can even reduce the severity of a concussion. This is an essential part of playing sports for every athlete and for a good reason!

Previously mentioned, almost half of sports injuries involve the face. You can save yourself from severe damage to your teeth, gums, lips and more by simply wearing a mouth guard. Many young athletes, typically teens and young adults, don’t always wear mouth guards when they should because they feel it’s uncomfortable, whether it’s too big or too small.

If you find yourself uncomfortable wearing a sports mouth guard you’ve purchased at the store, visit our office for a consultation on getting a custom-made mouth guard. These are the best solutions that are much more comfortable, protective, and overall practical. We take impressions of your teeth and create a guard that fits perfectly over your smile.

After you’ve received your personal mouth guard, don’t be afraid to ask us about how to take care of your mouth guard while you’re playing and when you’re not. To make these last as long as possible, it’s important to clean, maintain and store your mouth guard the right way.

Contact your Greenwich CT cosmetic dentist to learn more about custom mouth guards and what we can do for you by calling our office at (914) 939-2132 today!

Dentist near Greenwich CT Warns Patients about Severity of Gum Disease

One of the most, if not THE most, common health issue in the US is periodontal disease. While it may seem unlikely, there is a large majority of people who suffer from gum disease and face the consequences. This is more common than heart disease, stroke, or different forms of cancer. Below, your dentist serving Greenwich CT will share what gum disease is, why it’s important to monitor, and what you can do to protect your smile.

Periodontal disease had two different stages—gingivitis, which is a mild case, and periodontitis, which is an advanced case. This infection damages the gums and bone that support your teeth. When plaque hardens into tartar below the gum line, it makes the rest of your mouth, gums and tissues vulnerable. Combined with a poor diet and bad habits, the infection can spread much faster than you may think.

Unfortunately, many patients don’t recognize that they’re suffering from periodontal disease until it’s too late. There aren’t many extreme symptoms that patients will recognize are overtly dangerous. You’ll have red, swollen gums that will bleed when you brush your teeth, but this is something that patients ignore since they’re overall health isn’t reacting to the issue. For a majority of the symptoms, patients don’t think that they will warrant a visit to the dentist until something drastic happens, like extreme dental pain or tooth loss.

When periodontal disease gets to its advanced stages, there is no cure. This is why visiting our office bi-annually for your routine dental check-ups can help detect any early warning signs. Prevention is the best way to protect all of your teeth—brushing every morning and night, flossing, and having a proper diet will dramatically improve your oral and dental health.

We have periodontal treatment for patients who suffer from periodontitis, but it won’t completely remove the disease. You’ll want to frequently visit our office for extensive cleanings in order to protect your teeth from consistent pain.

Call our office to schedule an appointment or consultation with your dentist near Greenwich CT by reaching us at (914) 939-2132 to discuss your periodontal treatment.