All about teeth!
How many teeth are in an adult mouth?
32
What type of filling does Espire offer & why?
Composite (versus amalgam). We offer this because composites are more aesthetically pleasing, have heather materials and have less chance of breaking due to temperature changes in the mouth.
What is a veneer?
It is a cosmetic procedure, a thin covering placed over the front part of a tooth.
What is the difference between a D.M.D. & D.D.S.?
Doctor of Dental Surgery, Doctor of Dental Medicine. Not a different degree, just depends on what school you attended.
"I need a cap for my tooth"
This is a crown!
Pano (Panoramic), FMX (Full Mouth X-rays), PA's (periapical), BWX (bite-wings)
What are the steps for a crown?
Prep the tooth (re-contour), impress or scan, temporary if lab crown is needed & final seat.
What is the difference between a full denture and a partial denture?
A full denture replaces all teeth in an arch while a partial denture replaces missing teeth within an arch.
What is an IDO vs DSO? What are we?
Integrated Dental office, Dental Service Organization.
"My gums hurt and are bleeding"
This patient is likely suffering from a gum infection (periodontal disease). They will need to see a hygienist to diagnose proper treatment.
How many surfaces are on a tooth above the gums?
5
What is the difference between a lab crown and a Cerec?
Cerec- Made in office, same day final seat, average time is 2 hours. May be less aesthetically pleasing & may need more adjustments. These are scanned so no messy impressions are needed.
Lab - Sent to a lab for a custom crown, average time from prep to seat is 2-3 weeks. More customizable, better for front teeth. Will have to do traditional impressions (biting on goop)
What is crown lengthening?
A surgical procedure that recontours gum tissue, and sometimes bone, to expose more of the tooth for a crown.
Name 3 types of specialists in the dental field and what they do?
Endodontist (root canals), Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon (takes out teeth, treats diseases, injuries, defects), Orthodontist (Straightens teeth or jaw), Periodontist (Gum & bone health that support the teeth). Pediatric Dentist (Kiddos!)
Ask if this is a natural tooth or from a denture. A natural tooth can sometimes be re-implanted if lost from trauma. Have the patient keep the tooth in milk (weird I know) and get them in ASAP!
Name the 2 outside surfaces on teeth. HINT* Think of a face and a belt buccal
Facial and buccal
Name 3 ways we can replace missing teeth?
Bridge, Marilyn bridge, implant, Implant bridge, partial denture, full denture, stay plate (flipper)
What are the steps for a traditional implant?
Remove tooth, bone graft & membrane, implant placement, implant crown restoration.
How many offices does Espire dental currently have?
9 but we are growing!! We plan to be at 18 locations by the end of 2021.
"I had an upper tooth taken out and now I can feel air in my mouth when I sneeze..."
This is very like a hole in the sinus and they will need to see the person who removed the tooth or an Oral Surgeon ASAP.
What are the 5 tooth surfaces?
Facial/buccal, lingual, incisal/occlusal, mesial, distal.
What is a DO filling? Describe it.
Its a filling on the distal and occlusal sides of the tooth.
Who do we utilize for sedation in the Colorado offices?
CarePoint
What is the name of our whitening foundation?
The Esperation Foundation
"My tongue is black and tastes terrible. Can you help me?"
Black hairy tongue is a harmless condition. It's caused by a buildup of dead skin cells on the tiny projections that contain taste buds (papillae). Potential causes include antibiotic use and tobacco use. Symptoms include discoloration of the tongue, a furry or hairy appearance of the tongue, bad breath, and a metallic taste in the mouth. Treatment involves brushing the tongue regularly with a toothbrush and avoiding tobacco products.