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Frequently Asked Questions are answered by
Shahram Karimi, D.M.D.
| Cosmetic Procedures | General Questions |
| Preventive Procedures | Restorative Procedures |
Choose a question from one of the categories above,
or scroll down this page.
If you have a question that is not answered here,
please call us or send an
email to Dr. Karimi.
- Can I get a complimentary cosmetic dental consultation?
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Absolutely. Call our front desk (623 566-0022) or use our on-line appointment form to request a complimentary cosmetic consultation. We will sit down with you, go over your needs, and discuss available options. There is no obligation to this visit. We consider it a form of patient education, and when patients are well informed, it's better for us all!
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- What's included in the Comprehensive Examination?
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This is a process through which we are able to provide a thorough diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment plan. It includes an oral cancer screening, periodontal examination, and a caries exam. If you are a tobacco or smokeless tobacco user, you are in primary danger of developing oral cancer. This oral cancer screening helps in early identification of pre-cancerous conditions. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. We take the health of your gum and bone tissue very seriously. Bone loss is a significant consideration in determining the outcome of any cosmetic dental treatment. During the visual caries exam, I'll locate any areas of decay on chewing surfaces and between the teeth. The findings from these examinations, together with the documentation provided by (radiographic) x-rays, help me determine the most conservative treatment plan for your oral needs.
- What is a Veneer?
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This is a restorative procedure, and is a specialty at Paradise Dental Group. Customized from porcelain, veneers are thin, semi-translucent facings bonded to the fronts of teeth. Veneers are durable, stain resistant, and natural looking. They conceal broken, chipped, discolored, crooked, and misshapen teeth, all while providing you with the winning smile you have always wanted.
- What is a Crown?
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A crown is a restoration that covers a tooth in order to strengthen it as well as restore it to its normal shape and size. A crown may be placed to support a large filling when there is little remaining tooth structure; attach a bridge; protect weak teeth from fracturing; or restore fractured teeth. A tooth that has been treated with root canal therapy will require a crown following treatment to provide strength and support the tooth. We only use materials for crowns that will provide the longest lasting benefits to our patients, and our patients are thrilled that there are no more ugly metal bands at the gum line.
- What is an Onlay?
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When you do not need a full crown, an onlay may be the solution. The onlay procedure is a restoration in which porcelain is applied to a tooth surface to provide support as a conservative treatment option. Where needed, an onlay can function as a support at the same time that it improves your smile just as beautifully as a traditional veneer.
- What is used to fill a tooth cavity?
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We use composite (white) fillings, customized to match the rest of your teeth. Made of tooth-colored material, composite fillings restore the teeth's natural beauty. Composite fillings are virtually indistinguishable from non-restored teeth. The composites we use have proved to be extremely durable and stain resistant, and are excellent options for both front and back teeth.
- What is a bridge?
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A fixed bridge, usually made of porcelain-faced gold/metal, is used to replace missing teeth. A bridge helps to create a normal bite, prevent stress on the dental arch, prevent the drifting and tilt of adjacent teeth, inhibit decay in difficult areas, and slow the onset of periodontal disease. Bridges are composed of abutments (the sound teeth on either side acting as supports) and the span (a framework attached to the abutments with artificial teeth attached to that framework). This is one of our areas of expertise at Paradise Dental Group.
- What about implants?
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Dental implants replace teeth that have been missing since birth or have been lost due to gum disease, infection, trauma, or decay. Implants are surgically attached to the jawbone and become a permanent part of your mouth. With implants, patients no longer experience the slipping, moving, and irritation of dentures. Dental implants look, feel and function like natural teeth because they are made of a metal that is highly compatible with the jaw bone. As a result, the implant (a small post that protrudes from the gum) is able to fuse easily with the underlying bone. Basically, it is a two-part procedure: First, a highly experienced oral surgeon or periodontist (our office can recommend one for you if needed) performs the surgical procedure for your implant. Then I partner with your surgeon to follow your treatment to the restorative phase. Last, I complete the implant procedure by attaching natural and functional tooth structures to the implant components, providing you once again with the comforts and confidence that accompanies a beautiful smile.
- Please explain Full and Partial Dentures
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Partial dentures are indicated if some serviceable teeth are present for support in conjunction with the gums and jawbone. A partial denture, though removable, provides form and function replacement for missing teeth.
Full dentures are used if there are not any teeth left for support. The full denture covers more of the jaw than a partial denture and is partly held in place by a natural vacuum in the mouth. To learn about an alternative to dentures, see the section on "Implants."
- Can bonding improve my smile?
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Yes. Bonding is a cosmetic process in which tooth-colored material is applied to tooth surfaces, sculpted into shape, hardened and polished to match surrounding teeth. With this procedure we can close gaps, repair chipped or fractured teeth, and disguise discolored teeth. Bonding usually requires just one office visit and no anesthesia. Bonding is the treatment of choice for patients who have minor front tooth imperfections.
- Can I whiten my teeth at home?
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At-home tooth whitening procedures offer patients with stained, discolored, or dull teeth an opportunity to have a whiter, brighter smile. Whitening significantly reduces external surface stains caused by food and beverage. We can provide you with a professional at-home whitening system which is comfortable and affordable, in conjunction with in-office appointments to monitor progress. We will take impressions of your mouth to prepare your custom-fitted trays, and specifically select a whitening program for you. The process is then completed in the comfort of your own home.
- How about In-Office Whitening of my teeth?
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This is a very popular cosmetic procedure provided for patients who want their teeth whitened in just one office visit. Nothing to take home, no trays, no muss, no fuss. The latest and most advanced whitening materials are used to give you a dazzling smile in just one visit. The results of our in-office whitening process are absolutely remarkable.
- What are sealants?
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Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of the back teeth and should be applied as a child's permanent teeth erupt. Though typically placed on children's teeth, adult molars can also be sealed, provided a tooth does not show evidence of decay. The sealants that we have place have been highly successful in preventing decay.
- Why are Fluoride Treatments important?
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Children - Fluoride applications help to strengthen the enamel on your child's teeth, making it more difficult for cavities to begin. Children should receive fluoride treatments every six months.
Adult Tooth Desensitization - Fluoride is also helpful to adults to reduce the pain and discomfort caused by exposed root surfaces (receding gums). Regular fluoride application helps eliminate root sensitivity. Our patients have found it helpful to have a series of fluoride treatments to reduce their sensitivity, following by possible at-home applications.
- Why should a hygienist clean my teeth?
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Regular prophylaxis - Your teeth should be professionally cleaned and polished on a regular basis. We call this 'regular prophylaxis' During this visit, a professionally trained and certified hygienist will clean under your gum line where a toothbrush cannot reach. This process helps promote healthy gums by removing the plaque that causes decay and gum infections. I will examine the cleaning after the hygienist is through, and this also allows me to monitor your oral health and answer any questions you may have about your teeth.
Periodontal maintenance - Once your mouth is restored to health, it is important that you make a commitment to maintain your dental health. To achieve this you should return on a regular basis for a routine examination, scaling, and root planing.
- What is Nightguard Therapy?
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Nightguards are used as a treatment option to prevent damage to the chewing surfaces of the teeth associated with grinding and clenching during sleep. An pattern is taken of your teeth and an acrylic appliance created which you wear when sleeping. This conservative treatment is highly recommended for patients with TMJ dysfunction, or those who suffer headaches or jaw pain from clenching/grinding at night.
- What is Occlusal Treatment?
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Occlusal Adjustment- Proper functioning of the jaws and teeth is often hindered by malocclusion (a bad bite). Adjustments to the bite can be made so that your teeth fit together properly for chewing and swallowing. Minor polishing of the enamel surfaces or fillings of the teeth can help redistribute and redirect the biting forces.
Occlusal Guards - An overbite or an underbite can sometimes be corrected with an occlusal guard, which realigns your teeth and bite.
- What about patient protection?
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Our facility consistently applies state-of-the-art sterilization and disinfection techniques to provide our patients with maximum protection from disease. Before and after each patient appointment, all treatment surfaces (e.g., countertops, chair surfaces, lights, x-ray machines, and trays) are disinfected with the most effective and safest products available. To ensure your safety, we follow a number of standard sterilization procedures with all instruments and handpieces, utilizing an ultrasonic cleaner, autoclave and dry heat sterilizer. All our machines used for sterilization are monitored regularly to ensure their effectiveness and safety. Staff members use masks, safety glasses, and new gloves for each patient. All staff members are updated regularly in proper patient protection procedures and have been vaccinated against Hepatitis B virus. We will be happy to answer any further questions you may have regarding patient protection and give you a personal tour of our sterilization facility.
- What kind of anesthesia is used?
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We advocate local anesthesia. This anesthesia is injected into the gum tissue at or near the area to be treated, producing a numbing effect that wears off after the procedure. Most dental patients find that the use of local anesthesia allows them to experience dental treatment comfortably. There is no drowsiness and it will not interfere with your drive home.
- Where does Advanced Technology fit in?
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Our investment in advanced technology is designed to give you the best choices available for your oral health care. Our office is computerized with a system which efficiently manages the most complex information in the dental industry. This includes a computer terminal in each operatory for convenient quick access. We use the Casey interactive dental education program to assist in explaining dental techniques to you. Our X-ray machines and Panorex systems capture images to provide information vital to your treatment. The Intra-Oral Camera projects images of the inside of your mouth onto a television screen, enabling you to see clearly, understand, and participate in your treatment.
