Design the perfect smile for you… An introduction to the science of Digital Smile Design (DSD) software.

What is Digital Smile Design (DSD), and what does it do for you – Through a step-by-step workflow DSDgives you, the patient, full aesthetic evidence of the virtual smile in a very personalized way. With the modern technology of digital processing, the dentist is able to show a vision of the final prosthetic result prior to completion and can then provide the necessary information to the dental lab technicians for the execution of the perfect future prosthesis for each patient.

How does Digital Smile Design (DSD) work…Using just two images, the face with the patient’s smile and an intraoral shot with a dental mouth opener, the DSD software then performs a series of accurate and mathematically controlled measurements to verify alignments, symmetries and proportions giving the patient the perfect smile before work has even commenced and ensuring your full satisfaction upon completion.

These precise mathematical references allows the dental team to proceed to a digital reconstruction of your smile exactly as the one the real restoration aims to achieve, allowing you to view, and makes changes if necessary before the restoration has commenced. Why is it important for you.

Knowing what your smile will look like prior to commencing treatment is valuable tool for each patient, it gives you the opportunity to get involved in your smile creation, enhances the communication between you and your Dental Team which in turn improves your experience and satisfaction level with the restoration.

Wouldn’t it be great to know exactly what your new smile will look like before work is completed? After all you wouldn’t invest in a new boat without a water test first, or invest in a new car without first taking it on a test drive … why invest in something as important as your new smile without first knowing how it will look on you!

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Micro Dentistry… what’s in it for you?

The advantages of Micro Dentistry for the patient and the dental team are numerous: lower stress levels, effective control of the operatory field, less fatigue, improved ergonomics, and more efficiency.

The result is satisfaction and pride for the dental team and an unprecedented level of clinical excellence in treatment for the patient.

Micro Dentistry is a science-based tool, the goal of the Micro Dentist is to identify unsound tooth structure at the microscopic level, which will become a threat to the long-term stability of the tooth, and then neutralize or remove those structures with minimal disruption and invasion of the surrounding sound tooth structure. Minimal disruption of sound tooth structures provides the additional patient benefit of reducing or eliminating the pain associated with traditional dentistry.

As a direct consequence of higher magnification and the visualization obtained, treatment can be more precise and less invasive, thus preserving the oral tissues and dental structures from unnecessary substance loss during procedures such as diagnosis, cavity removal, and cavity preparation.

Experience the DaVinci’s Difference today and see for yourself the technology and science behind the Perfect Smile!

Contact our International Patient Coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us at 305 280 2272

Do you experience jaw pain while eating, talking? …. You may have TMJ

You might think to seek help with your primary care doctor for treatment, however it is your Dental Professional you should see first.

Temporomandibular disorders are a group of problems that cause pain and poor function in the jaw joint and the muscles responsible for jaw movement.

They’re also called TMD, or TMJ (short for temporomandibular joint) and may affect more than 10 million Americans, according to the National Institutes of Health, with women affected more often than men.

It can be incredibly debilitating, with severe TMJ simple tasks such as eating, or talking, can be difficult and can no longer be taken for granted.

For some people, the disc within the jaw joint slips out of position during sleep, waking up in the morning to find they can’t open their mouth more than 10 millimeters when a normal opening is approx. 50 millimeters.

Symptoms of TMJ may include:

Pain in the chewing muscles or jaw joint

Pain in the jaw, neck, or face

Stiff jaw muscles

A jaw that locks or has limited movement

Painful clicking, popping, or grating in the jaw joint

Changes in the fit between upper and lower teeth

Headaches, neck pain.

Ringing in the ear, or a sense of fullness in the ear.

If you think you may have TMJ and would like to schedule a consultation contact us at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com

Or call our International Patient Coordinator today at 305 280 2272

Is a partial Denture right for you?

Today with the advancement of dental technology there are multiple options in partial denture designs for patients.

Removable Partial dentures

A removable partial denture (RPD) is a denture for a partially edentulous patient who desires to have replacement teeth for functional or aesthetic reasons and who cannot have a bridge (a fixed partial denture) for any number of reasons, such as a lack of required teeth to serve as support for a bridge (i.e. distal abutments) or financial limitations. Patients can remove and reinsert it when required without professional help. Rather than lying entirely on the edentulous ridge like complete dentures, removable partial dentures possess clasps of cobalt chrome metal or plastic that “clip” onto the remaining teeth, making the RPD more stable and retentive.

Fixed partial dentures

Fixed prosthodontics can be used to restore single or multiple teeth, spanning areas where teeth have been lost.  This type of restoration is cemented to the abutment teeth, they are fixed and only the dentist can remove it.  The materials used for this type of restoration are: metal -porcelain, zirconia or all ceramic bridges (metal free)

Flexible partial

Which is widely considered to be the most comfortable. The final restoration can now be made very quickly with innovations in digital technology. Flexible partials are becoming much more popular due to their aesthetic qualities. While the cost may be higher than a partial made with visible metal clasps, the results of the flexible partial are beautiful, with high levels of satisfaction. Flexible partial fabrication involves only non-invasive procedures, and serves as a virtually invisible tooth replacement option.

Experience the DaVinci’s Difference!  Take advantage of our complimentary Digital Smile Design Analysis technology and let us create the perfect partial that is just right for you!

Contact our International Patient Coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us today at 305 280 2272

Did you know there are hundreds of different types of toothbrushes on the market today!

It can be overwhelming when it comes to choosing the right toothbrush for your dental hygiene.

Here are some easy tips to help break it down and find the right toothbrush for you!

Manual – Manual toothbrushes are the oldest types of toothbrushes and feature a hard handle with bristles on one end. Certain manual models may contain a tongue scraper. These toothbrushes are very inexpensive and come in many different colors and designs. They are easy to travel with but can be hard to use for people with arthritis.

Battery Powered – Battery powered toothbrushes often contain a large-handled base that can hold two AA batteries. The bristles will vary and some will spin, while others simply move back and forth in a gentle pattern. Another type of battery-powered toothbrush features bottom bristles that are stationary like a manual toothbrush, while the upper bristles will spin in a circular fashion. The battery-powered brush can clean more effectively, but the bulky base may not be comfortable to hold for some users.

Sonic- Sonic toothbrushes are newer model toothbrushes use sonic power to clean teeth. Instead of spinning or moving in a predetermined pattern, the bristles will vibrate intensely to shake lose any hidden plaque and debris that are hiding between teeth. While other kinds of toothbrushes only will clean where the bristles can touch, sonic power will clean areas that bristles can find. A sonic toothbrush is plugged into a household outlet.

Chewable – A chewable toothbrush is a small piece of plastic that has bristles on one end. They are used at times when water, toothbrush and toothpaste are not easily accessible. After a meal or simply to freshen your breath, pop in a chewable toothbrush, chew it for a few minutes, spit it out and you should have clean teeth and fresh breath. Remember, Chewable brushes should not be swallowed, and they are not meant to replace regular brushing and flossing.

Have more questions?

Want to book a consultation?

Contact our International Patient Coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com

Or call us today at 305 280 2272

Do you experience Canker Sores… you could be lacking in B12

They may look pale or yellow like an ulcer with a red outer ring, they are not contagious. You may experience one, or more at a time, and for reason unexplained women seem to get them more than men.

The cause of canker sores is not clear.

It may be due to:

• Diet

• Weakened immune system (for example, from the cold or flu)

• Hormone changes

• Stress

• Lack of certain vitamins and minerals in the diet, including vitamin B12 or folate

• Less commonly, mouth sores can be a sign of an illness, tumor, or reaction to a medication.

• This can include:

• Autoimmune disorders

• Cancer of the mouth

• Infections such as hand foot mouth disease

• Weakened immune system — for example, if you have AIDS or are taking medication after a transplant

• Drugs that may cause mouth sores include aspirin, beta-blockers, chemotherapy medicines, penicillin, sulfa drugs, and phenytoin.

If you are experiencing Canker sores frequently and you would like to schedule a dental exam contact our International Patient Coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com

Or call us today at 305 280 2272

Experience the DaVinci’s Difference!

The term “healthy mouth, healthy you” is true – & it’s backed up by growing scientific evidence…
A healthy mouth and healthy body really do go together. Good oral hygiene and oral health has been proven to improve not just your oral health but your overall health level, helping to reduce the risk of serious disease and perhaps even preserving your memory in your golden years.

Boost Your Self-esteem and Confidence
Decayed teeth and gum disease are often associated not only with an unsightly mouth conditions but very bad breath — so bad it can affect your confidence, self-image, and self-esteem. With a healthy mouth that’s free of gum disease and cavities, your quality of life is also bound to be better — you will smile and laugh more, you can eat properly, sleep better, and concentrate with no aching teeth or mouth infections to distract you.

Lower Risk of Heart Disease
Chronic inflammation from gum disease has been associated with the development of cardiovascular problems such as heart disease, blockages of blood vessels, and strokes. Experts stop short of saying there is a cause-and-effect between gum disease and these other serious health problems, but the link has shown up in numerous studies. The findings of these studies may suggest that maintaining oral health can help protect overall health.

Preserve Your Memory
Adults with gingivitis (swollen, bleeding gums) performed worse on tests of memory and other cognitive skills than did those with healthier gums and mouths, according to a report in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry. Those with gingivitis were more likely to perform poorly on two tests: delayed verbal recall and subtraction — both skills used in everyday life. Using an antibacterial mouthwash or toothpaste can help reduce bacteria in the mouth that can cause gingivitis.

It’s never too early or too late to start practising good oral health habits: Healthy habits learned in childhood, and relearned if necessary in adulthood, can pay off handsomely for your overall health.

So when you’re tempted to shrug off your daily good oral hygiene habits – brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly – just remember that you’re affecting more than just your oral health.

Healthy teeth = Health Mind & Body!

Experience the DaVinci’s Difference… for more information contact our international patient coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us today at 305 280 2272

Orange Tongue can be caused by a multitude of factors, and can sometimes be easily missed by people. After all it is not every day we look at our tongues to notice if it is orange or not.

Here some things to watch for that cause Orange tongue

Food Debris – when accumulation of debris forms on the tongue from foods and drinks it can cause orange tongue. Treatment: The coating can be cleaned by brushing the tongue or using a tongue scrapper. This will also make the breath fresher.

Overgrowth of a Yeast or Bacteria – If there is bad breath or burning sensation on the tongue, it can be caused due to overgrowth of yeast or bacteria. Treatment: Eating yoghurt containing live culture daily for a week should bring down the growth. If there is no change or the severity of burning increases you should contact the dentist

Acid Indigestion or Heartburn – Heartburn or acid indigestion is usually the main cause of an orange tongue. Treatments: The simplest remedy for an orange tongue caused due acid indigestion is to take antacids like Maalox, Alka-Seltzer, Tums or Pepto-Bismol. Brushing along with antacids should resolve the problem. Prevention: Reduce the intake of acidic foods or opt to eat more a low-acid foods in your diet.

Mold in the Environment – Orange tongue can also be due to the presence of mold in the environment at home or at work. Treatment: Taking anti-fungal medication may or may not be very effective as it is essential to get rid of the mold from the environment.

1. Antibiotics – In normal conditions, there is normal flora of microorganisms that thrives in your mouth. Antibiotics can cause an imbalance in this natural flora and cause orange tongue. Treatment: The treatment for orange tongue caused due to use of antibiotics involves restoring the balance of the healthy oral flora. Close monitoring by your doctor, and of your diet, including supplements in the diet.

TIP: Grapefruit seed extract taken orally or used as throat gargle is very effective in getting rid of orange tongue

The Procedure

In order to determine if a bone graft is necessary, the extent of grafting required and what source material should be used, a Cone Beam 3D CT scan must be taken and analyzed. If the patient’s own bone is to be used, the location it will be harvested from will also be scanned and analyzed.

The donor bone will be placed at the recipient site and anchored in place with small titanium screws which are removed after the recovery period during the implant procedure. A mixture of marrow and other material is placed around the edges of the block to stimulate bonding. The surgeon then lays down a tissue membrane over the Bone graft before closing the incision.

It can take 4-9 months for the augmentation to heal and integrate with the surrounding bone before implants can then be placed

Recovery and Post-Procedure Care

After the surgery, you will be given pain medication, antibiotics and an antibacterial mouthwash.

It is advised to avoid certain foods such as hard foods, nuts, etc. that put stress on the graft until it heals completely. Depending on the size of the graft and the materials used, it can take 4-9 months before the jaw is strong enough to receive implants. During that time, ensure you maintain proper oral care (routine brushing and flossing) and a healthy diet to ensure its success.

Bone Augmentation, or as it is commonly known Bone Grafting, is the process of replacing, or rebuilding bone in the jaw using bone or bone-like materials in order to support dental implants.

Grafts range in complexity from supplementing the bone beside one implant to making significant changes to the shape and size of the dental ridge. Small grafts can be performed by a dentist during implant surgery, while extensive procedures are usually performed by a specialist such as an oral surgeon, prosthodontist or periodontist several months before.

Bone loss can be caused by trauma, an abscess/infection and periodontal disease. The density of bone beneath missing teeth will factor in deterioration of bone over time. Patients who have been missing teeth for months or years often require bone grafts before they can get implants.

 What to expect

After extraction – When your doctor removes a damaged tooth, it leaves behind a void where the tooth was. Bone loss occurs without the tooth present to stimulate the jaw bone. Placing bone graft material in the void left behind will promote bone growth.

Ridge Augmentation – Bone loss occurs when teeth are no longer present to stimulate the bone. Too much bone loss will require a ridge augmentation procedure to rebuild the lost bone and restore your jaw bone to its natural shape so it can support dental implants.

Material used include:

Your Own Bone – This source is the safest and most effective because it integrates very well and there is no risk of infectious disease, contamination or tissue rejection. The bone is typically harvested from the chin or jaw, but a shin or hip can also be used. Disadvantages of this source are that it requires two surgical sites, is more expensive and if the bone is taken from the hip or shin, requires general anesthesia and hospitalization.

Human Cadaver Bone – Freeze-dried and sterile, cadaver bone obtained from a reputable tissue bank is more affordable and generally quite safe, although it does carry some risk. Using human bone carries a similar level of risk of transmitting infectious disease to receiving blood from the blood bank.

Animal Bone – Cow bone, or Bovine Bone has been commonly used for many years. It is sterilized and processed to minimize infection. This graft material is naturally absorbed by the body and replaced with real bone over time.

Mineral Bone Substitute (Synthetic) – Although less-effective than the other options, these sterile bone-like materials are second only to a patient’s own bone in terms of safety. This material is also absorbed and replaced over time.

When considering a Bone Graft it is necessary for the Dental Team to know the precise location and volume of bone nerves and sinus spaces. This is possible with a Cone Beam CT scan. Cone Beam CT scans are an invaluable diagnostic aid, particularly where multiple implants are considered. They are so accurate that it is possible to have 3D guides constructed that can help determine exact implant positioning

Protecting Your Enamel?

Good dental care at home daily and regular cleanings at the dentist’s office is the best way to keep your mouth healthy.

Here are some other tips to help stop tooth erosion:

Cut down on acidic drinks and foods, like sodas and citrus fruits and juices. When you do have something with acid, have it at mealtimes to make it easier on your enamel.  You can also switch to products like low-acid orange juice.

Rinse your mouth with water right after you eat or drink something acidic.

Use a straw for sodas and fruit juices so they bypass the teeth. Don’t swish them around in your mouth.

Finish a meal with a glass of milk or a piece of cheese to cancel out acids.

Drink more water during the day if you have dry mouth.

Use a soft toothbrush, and remember not to brush too hard.

Wait at least an hour to brush after you’ve had acidic foods or drinks. They soften the enamel and make it more prone to damage from your toothbrush.

Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash.

Seek treatment if you have conditions like bulimia, alcoholism, or GERD.

Can Damaged Tooth Enamel Be Repaired?

The best approach depends on your problem. We can recommend tooth bonding which can protect a damaged tooth and cover teeth that are worn down, chipped, or discolored.

If you’ve lost a lot of that outer shell, the best option may be to cover the tooth with a crown to strengthen and protect it from further damage.

If you think you have enamel loss and would like to schedule a consultation contact our International Patient Coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com

Did you know that Tooth Enamel is the strongest substance in the human body?

This semi-clear, hard, outer layer protects teeth from the daily wear and tear of biting and chewing, as well as temperature extremes from hot or cold foods and drinks. Enamel also guards against acids and chemicals that can damage teeth.

When this shell erodes, your teeth are more likely to get cavities and decay. The first indicator of this is when you notice that you react more to hot or cold foods, drinks, and sweets, since they can get through holes in your enamel to the nerves inside.

What Causes Erosion?

Sugar, the bacteria in your mouth thrive on sugar, and they make acids that can eat away at enamel. The problem gets worse if you don’t clean your teeth regularly.

Acid, sour foods or candies that have a lot of acid.

Dry mouth Saliva helps prevent tooth decay by washing away bacteria acids and leftover food in your mouth, and restoring the pH level (acid) to a more neutral level.

Acid reflux disease, GERD, or heartburn. Reflux brings stomach acids up to the mouth, where they can damage enamel.

Bulimia, alcoholism, or binge drinking. People with these conditions vomit often, which is hard on teeth.

Drugs or supplements that have a lot of acid, like aspirin or vitamin C.

Brushing too hard or grinding your teeth.

What Are the Symptoms?

Pain when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods or drinks

Rough or uneven edges on the teeth, which can crack or chip when they lose their enamel

Smooth, shiny surfaces on the teeth, a sign of mineral loss

Yellow teeth

Cupping, or dents, that show up where you bite and chew