FAQ

The term bonding is used to describe procedures where tooth-colored dental resins and composites are used. Direct bonding techniques can be used to change the shapes and colors of teeth as well as to close unattractive spaces. It can also be used to repair chipped or broken teeth or even to cover up unsightly stains. Unlike crowns or caps, direct bonding requires only a minimal amount of tooth reduction thus making it a very conservative procedure.

After slight preparation, the tooth is etched with a weak phosphoric acid solution to create a more porous and rougher surface for increased bonding strength. Next, a composite (plastic) resin in placed on the tooth and shaped, contoured and hardened with a special curing light. It is then further shaped and highly polished creating a very natural appearance. The procedure usually requires only one visit and is not painful.

The bonded composite has an average life of four to eight years, and often lasts longer depending on how and where in the mouth it is applied and how it is maintained. The area can be touched up and even re-bonded over time as necessary.

A missing tooth or teeth can create an unhealthy situation over time. It is very important to restore these gaps. When one or more teeth are lost or missing, the neighboring teeth can shift, tip or even "super-erupt" into the space. Teeth that have drifted from their normal and healthy position are often more susceptible to decay and gum disease. Further, this movement can lead to changes in a patient's bite that can ultimately put stress on the jaws, muscles, teeth and temporomandibular joints (TMJ). Over time this can affect a patient's ability to chew and may even change the facial appearance depending on the location and number of missing teeth.

There are two ways to replace a missing tooth or teeth: fixed and removable. A bridge is a permanent or fixed replacement, while a denture is a removable replacement. A bridge consists of replacement teeth (one or more) that are attached to crowns on the adjacent teeth. The replacement teeth are shaped and contoured to blend in with the natural teeth in the mouth.

This procedure takes two or more visits to complete. At the first visit, the adjacent teeth are reduced, an impression is taken and sent to a dental laboratory for fabrication. At the second visit, the bridge is fit and placed permanently in the mouth. Like crowns, bridges can be made from variety of materials for strength and esthetic appearance. While it should always be discussed with your dentist before treatment, a fixed restoration is generally considered to be the favored solution for tooth replacement.

Cosmetic contouring (or re-contouring) is the reshaping of a patient's own teeth. This process involves removal of a very small amount of tooth structure to help achieve a more desirable appearance. Chipped or fractured areas are smoothed out and specific angles or edges can be rounded or squared to alter the way your smile looks.

Contouring can create better alignment or create a more feminine or masculine appearance. It is sometimes done to prevent chipped areas from getting worse. Re-contouring of the teeth is generally done with no discomfort to the patient and no anesthetic. Often it is done in conjunction with bleaching as a very conservative and inexpensive approach to a beautiful smile.

Dental implants are metal anchors placed in the jaw bone underneath the gum tissue to support artificial teeth where natural teeth are missing. Unlike other types of tooth replacements, such as removable dentures or fixed bridges that are cemented to remaining teeth, dental implants are actually placed ("implanted") into the jaw bone under the gum tissue. These implants are usually made from a space-age metal called titanium, which is readily accepted by the body, and artificial teeth that look like natural teeth are then attached to the implants. Accepted by the American Dental Association, dental implants have been used for many years, and hundreds of thousands have been placed. Due to a phenomenon known as "osteointegration" meaning that bone actually attaches itself to the implant, these anchors provide a strong foundation that allows people with missing teeth to chew efficiently and comfortably.

Anyone who is missing teeth and can benefit from increased chewing efficiency, and improved appearance or speech, is a candidate for dental implants. Implants can be the solution when it has become difficult or impossible to wear a removable denture. Portions of the jaw that are missing due to an accident, disease, or birth defect can often be reconstructed using implants.

You are a candidate if:
1. You have enough jaw bone, and dense enough bone, to secure the implants
2. you do not have a disease or condition that interferes with proper healing after implant surgery (e.g. uncontrolled diabetes, or radiation/chemotherapy for treating cancer)

A discussion with your oral and maxillofacial surgeon and restorative dentist (the dentist who will make your new teeth) will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. As a rule, age is not a barrier to implant treatment if you are in good health. In fact, thousands of people of all ages are turning to dental implants to replace a single missing tooth, several teeth, or all teeth.

Fear has no boundaries. It affects all types of people. There is no age, sex, economic or race discrimination. This is the reason the American Dental Association estimates that close to 20% and some industry experts estimate close to 25% of the population avoids going to the dentist.

If you have a fear of dentists, sensitive teeth, hate needles, have a bad gag reflex or limited time to go to the dentist, Sedation/Sleep Dentistry can help you. Sedation/Sleep Dentistry places you in a cozy state of total relaxation. You will have little or no memory of the experience. And best of all..NO DISCOMFORT! We won't start your treatment until you are completely comfortable. Ask for sedation to eliminate your anxieties about dental care.

By taking a pill an hour before your appointment you will already be relaxed when you arrive at our office. You must be accompanied to and from the appointment by a friend or loved one. Depending on your individual needs, you will be relaxed and sedated for a short or long visit. This may allow treatment requiring six or eight visits to be accomplished in as little as one.

Sedation/Sleep Dentistry is a very safe and effective way to provide complex dental care with the greatest degree of comfort to adult patients who have anxieties and fears about their dental care.

No, you are in a state of light conscious sedation, you are responsive to verbal directions.

Yes, one of our team is always with you and your vital signs are monitored during the entire visit.

The medication we use is a commonly prescribed sleeping pill. Over one million pills are safely taken daily.

Natural tooth-colored fillings have become widely accepted and are used in place of silver fillings by Dr. Jinjuwadia. There are even studies that show that in some cases, use of certain tooth-colored materials can strengthen a tooth, making it a better choice than the metallic predecessor - amalgam. Two basic types of tooth-colored restorations are used: composite and ceramic.

Composites have been used for many years however their chemical make-up has changed and improved exponentially. The bonding agents used to make the composites adhere to the tooth have improved just as dramatically. Because of the improvements, the use of composites has become widely accepted by dentists and the indications for their use are more numerous. They are being used to close undesirable spaces, improve the shape, size and color of a tooth, replace an unsightly amalgam restoration, cover abraded or worn areas of a tooth (usually at the gum line) and to cover stains. Composites can also be used to protect thermally sensitive areas and to repair and strengthen broken teeth.

Once the tooth has been prepared and all decay removed, chemicals and materials are placed on the tooth to increase bond strength and to protect the tooth. Next, the composite material is placed incrementally into the tooth and is hardened by exposure to a special curing light. The restoration is then contoured to fit the bite and then is highly polished. These fillings require a bit more time than the silver fillings because of the number of steps involved. Composite fillings can also be a bit more sensitive, at first, to extreme hot and cold and they may discolor over time if the patient smokes or drinks a lot of coffee, tea or cola. They can also be more expensive and some composites may wear faster than silver fillings; however, they yield a much more natural and aesthetic result. Ceramic fillings, like composites, come in several different types that can be used for different situations. Ceramics are typically used for the larger and more broken down areas. In these cases, an inlay or onlay to cover more of the tooth's surface may be indicated. These restorations are indirect because they require two visits and fabrication by a dental laboratory. The ceramic restorations are considerably more expensive and therefore simple, one-visit composite fillings are typically used instead. Ceramic restorations are much more durable and will not stain. Naturally speaking, the final result with ceramics is spectacular.

Veneering a tooth means to cover its facial or front surface. It is actually very similar to placing acrylic fingernails on top of natural nails except they are permanently in place. Veneers are used to enhance shapes and colors of teeth as well as to close spaces between teeth and to cover up significant stains such as those caused by tetracycline.

There are two types of veneers: direct and indirect. Direct veneers are done in a single visit and with a composite or plastic material. Indirect veneers are usually done in two visits and require a dental laboratory to fabricate the final restoration. The indirect veneer can be either a composite material or more commonly, a porcelain material. Due to the advancements in the porcelain substrates and the bonding materials used to place them, they are often used in place of crowns for a more conservative and natural looking smile.

First Step
During the first visit, a local anesthetic is used and the tooth or teeth are reduced by approximately 0.5mm - 2.0mm. An impression of the teeth in this state is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory for fabrication of the veneers. This usually takes one to two weeks to complete. A temporary restoration may or may not be placed depending on the amount of reduction necessary. There may or may not be slight sensitivity to hot and cold during this period.

Second Step
At the second visit, a local anesthetic may be used for the patient's comfort in seating the veneers. After thoroughly cleaning and preparing the teeth, the veneers are then placed with a resin material and cured or hardened with a special curing light.

There are many different variations of porcelains used today and this should be discussed with the dentist ahead of time. Typically, the porcelains should last about 15 years, however, with proper care and maintenance, they can last longer. Porcelain veneers resist staining, reflect light and are among the strongest and most natural looking restorations available.

Bleaching is a very conservative and non-invasive approach to creating a whiter, brighter, and appealing smile. Teeth can often take on a darker and unattractive appearance with age or from contact with staining substances.

There are two commonly used methods for bleaching: at-home and in-office. Both begin with an office consultation to determine if the patient is a good candidate for the bleaching process. The at-home technique is the most popular and least expensive. The in-office method allows Dr. Jinjuwadia to place a higher concentration of bleach over the teeth and use a laser to accelerate the bleaching process.

At-Home Method
A custom mouth piece or "tray" is made to fit your teeth by the dental office. This tray fits over the patient's teeth and holds the bleaching material against the teeth for a specified period of time. There are different concentrations of bleach that are worn via the tray for one to five hours per day for an average of 10 to 14 days. The regimen will be determined by the dentist and may differ for each patient. If the teeth become more sensitive to hot and cold, a "desensitizing" material may be used in the same tray on alternating days. Results are usually excellent with this method.

In-Office Method
The gum tissues are covered to protect them from being irritated by a higher concentration of the bleaching material. The bleach is then activated by a high intensity light or a laser to accelerate the process. This method is repeated several time during the laser session. Dr. Jinjuwadia will sometimes recommend tray bleaching at home for further bleaching results that will last. Most patients require a touch-up after one to five years, depending on the patient's habits and desires.

Both at-home and in-office treatments are considerably more effective than the whiteners available at retail. The over-the-counter products have much lower concentrations of bleach and sometimes use materials and ill-fitting trays that can cause damage to the teeth and gums. Reliable Results Bleaching has become very popular for a whiter and brighter smile because it's fast, simple and inexpensive with excellent and predictable results.

Wisdom teeth are third molars. Normally people have three permanent molars that develop in each quadrant of the mouth; upper, lower, right and left. The first molars usually grow into the mouth at around six years of age. The second molars grow in at around age 12. The third molars usually will try to grow in at around age 18 to 20 years. Since that is considered to be the age when people become wiser, third molars gained the nickname, "wisdom teeth." Actually, they are no different than any other tooth except that they are the last teeth to erupt, or grow into the mouth. They are just as useful as any other tooth if they grow in properly, have a proper bite relationship, and have healthy gum tissue around them.

When wisdom teeth are prevented from erupting into the mouth properly, they are referred to as impacted. Teeth that have not erupted are not necessarily impacted. It may be that it is still too early in someone's dental development, and if time passes they might grow in properly. A dentist must examine a patient's mouth and his or her x-rays to determine if the teeth are impacted or will not grow in properly. Impacted teeth may cause problems. Impacted teeth can result in infection, decay of adjacent teeth, gum disease or formation of a cyst or tumor from the follicle, which is the tissue which formed the crown of the tooth. Many dentists recommend removal of impacted wisdom teeth to prevent potential problems.

Erupted wisdom teeth
Most dentists will recommend removal of the wisdom teeth, (when the roots are approximately formed, or three-fourths developed, usually in the adolescent years),as early removal will help to eliminate problems, such as an impacted tooth that destroys the second molar. Third molar impaction is the most prevalent medical developmental disorder.

Erupted wisdom teeth may also need to be removed. The dentist may recommend this if the tooth is non-functional, interfering with the bite, badly decayed, involved with or at risk for periodontal disease, or interfering with restoration of an adjacent tooth. Once again, every case is different and only your dentist can determine if there is a reason for you to have a tooth removed.

Most dentists will recommend removal of the wisdom teeth, (when the roots are approximately formed, or three-fourths developed, usually in the adolescent years),as early removal will help to eliminate problems, such as an impacted tooth that destroys the second molar. Third molar impaction is the most prevalent medical developmental disorder.

Sensitive teeth often come from the fact that your gums have slightly receded. This recession of the gum line allows the underlying dentin to show through which allows water and food easier access to the sensitive nerve. To manage this, there are a number of toothpastes, gels and even some dental procedures that can be applied. Speak to us in more detail if you have very sensitive teeth.

Great dental care begins at home. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis is the best way to take care of your teeth and gums on a continued basis. By keeping a daily routine you will minimize the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay as you age.

Gingivitis is a dental condition caused when bacteria surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The gums can become irritated, inflamed, and bleed. In order to prevent the condition from worsening, regular dental hygiene visits are highly recommended by the dentists. During your visit to the dental office, the Hygiene team will teach you the proper flossing techniques and Oral Hygiene protocol for dental care at home which will prevent the Periodontal Disease.

Periodontal Disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The immediate condition is known as 'gingivitis'. The gums become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. If not properly treated, the condition worsens. Noticeable symptoms now appear. They include:
  - Bad Breath
  - Gum Recession
  - Gum Sensitivity to Acidic Foods
  - Abscesses
  - Tooth Pain
  - Tooth Loss

Periodontal Disease is a chronic condition that needs immediate attention. Through a series of Periodontal Cleanings, Root Planing & Scaling, Laser Therapy and Local Antibiotics, this condition can be controlled. Periodontal Surgery is only necessary for severe cases.

Silver Fillings known as Amalgam have been around for decades. Made from a metal alloy, it was the best restoration for fillings. The metal expands and contracts with the heat and cold placed in the mouth. This allowed for little bacteria to enter a tooth once filled; keeping the tooth healthy and strong.

White Fillings, also known as composites are often made of plastic or glass polymers. These cosmetic fillings allow us to fill a cavity with a substance that will look and feel just like your existing tooth structure. This restoration is created with a resin material and fits tightly into a tooth to prevent decay. Rather than a gray or silver material in your mouth, the composite color will match the tooth color.

There are several ways in today's Dental World to enhance your smile. Certain procedures include:
  - Tooth Whitening
  - Bonding
  - Porcelain Veneers
  - Porcelain Crowns

We have the capability to improve your smile using all or some of these procedures. For an exact consultation, please contact our office so that we may provide you with a customized treatment plan.

At East Bay Dental under the guidance of Dr. Kamlesh Jinjhuwadia, we can confidently say that we have the dental knowledge and dental technology avalaible to improve your smile.

Tooth Whitening is a cosmetic procedure which results in whiter teeth and a brighter smile. Tooth Whitening should be monitored by your dentists and only done after a comprehensive exam and hygiene cleaning. The whitening process can last for a number of years if maintained properly. Beverages such as coffee, tea, cola and wine will reduce the lasting effect. Remember, if it could stain a white shirt, it will stain your smile!

Porcelain Veneers are custom made thin shells whose color resembles teeth. They are placed directly on the front surface of a natural tooth to change the size, shape, and color of a patient's teeth. The dental procedure of getting a porcelain veneers is used to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age and/or medication, or a crooked smile. However, many times patients ask for porcelain veneers to feel and look younger with a straighter, whiter smile!

A dental crown is a cosmetic dentistry procedure in which a cap that looks like and is shaped as a tooth is placed over the existing tooth to cover it. A crown is used to restore the shape and size of a tooth and improve it apperance in as few as 2 visits.

Dental Implants look and function like your natural tooth.
Dental Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth.
Dental Implants are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office.
Dental Implants decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease, tooth movement, and further tooth loss.
Dental Implants replace the need for a Removable Full or Partial Denture.
Dental Implants focus only on the tooth or teeth that are missing. A traditional bridge would involve the two or more adjacent teeth being compromised to create a false tooth in between.

The average Dental Implant Procedure takes 3 - 4 visits. The first visit is to x-ray the area and take an impression for a surgical guide and a temporary prosthesis to cover the Implant.

The next visit is to place the Implant. A local anesthesia is applied to the area. (Any additional sedation is no longer necessary unless deemed by the dentist). The dentist will then make a minor incision to place the implant. The implant is placed into the jaw bone. The area will then be covered with sutures. The procedure is usually completed with minor pain.

You will next return to the dentist office in approximately 3 months will be to create the Porcelain Crown to place over the Implants.

Dental Implant cost varies according to each dental practice. To get an accurate estimate schedule a implant consultation at East Bay Dental in Fremont, CA to discuss with Dr. Kamlesh Jinjhuwadia the procedure and the fees involved.

A dental implant can last approximately 30 years to a lifetime with routine dental hygiene appointments and proper dental care at home.

At East Bay Dental we strive to offer our patients the best dental care possible. If you have any questions regarding financing please give us a phone call at (510) 818-9000 or visit us at 3500 Mowry Avenue, Suite A, Fremont, CA 94538.