There are some yellowish hard stone-like deposits on my teeth, which are not going in spite of brushing hard. Can it be treated?

The presence of yellowish, hard, stone-like deposits on your teeth is often indicative of dental calculus, commonly known as tartar. These deposits are a result of the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. When plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which is more difficult to eliminate and can contribute to various dental issues. Tartar formation is accelerated by factors such as diet, smoking, and inadequate brushing techniques.

It’s understandable to be concerned, especially if these deposits persist despite rigorous oral hygiene efforts. However, there are effective treatments and strategies available to address this issue, like professional dental cleaning, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.

The primary treatment for tartar removal is a professional dental cleaning, also known as scaling. During this procedure, a dentist or dental hygienist uses specialised tools to carefully remove tartar from the teeth. The process involves scraping the hard deposits from the tooth surface and below the gum line. This is followed by polishing the teeth to remove any remaining plaque and stains. Scaling is effective in preventing further dental problems, such as gum disease and cavities, that can arise from tartar accumulation.

While professional cleaning is essential for removing existing tartar, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing its recurrence. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque formation. Regular dental check-ups are vital for managing and preventing tartar buildup. Dentists recommend visiting every six months for routine cleanings and examinations.

I fell down and my front teeth are chipped and look bad when I smile. What is the solution?

When the front two teeth are chipped, it can significantly impact both your appearance and self-esteem, especially when you smile. Fortunately, there are several solutions available to address chipped teeth, each tailored to different levels of damage and personal needs.

a)Dental bonding: For minor chips, dental bonding is a highly effective solution. This procedure involves the application of a tooth-coloured resin to the chipped area. The results are immediate, restoring both the function and appearance of the affected teeth. Bonding is also a cost-effective option, making it an attractive choice for many patients.

b)Veneers: If the chips are more significant or if you’re looking for a more durable and aesthetically pleasing solution, dental veneers might be the right choice. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth. They are designed to cover imperfections, including chips, and provide a natural-looking appearance

c)Crowns: For severe chipping or cases where a significant portion of the tooth is lost, dental crowns may be necessary after the RCT. A crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, and function. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. These are generally more costly than bonding or veneers, but crowns provide robust protection and durability.

Regardless of the treatment chosen, ongoing preventive care is essential. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene can help maintain the health of the treated teeth and prevent further damage.

I was told to remove the remaining teeth and get implants done and get full fixed teeth. Apparently, there is four-six months waiting period before I get fixed. Is it possible to get fixed teeth sooner like within one day or one week?

The recommendation to remove remaining teeth and opt for dental implants with full fixed teeth is a significant decision that aims to restore both function and aesthetics for individuals with extensive dental issues. However, the waiting period for the complete restoration, often ranging from four to six months, can understandably pose a challenge for many patients. This period is necessary for the implants to integrate with the jawbone properly and for the fabrication of custom prosthetics.

The standard procedure for dental implants involves several stages. Initially, the remaining teeth are extracted and implants are placed in the jawbone. This is followed by a healing period, known as osseointegration, during which the implants fuse with the bone. This process typically takes several months and is crucial for ensuring the stability and longevity of the implants. Once osseointegration is complete, custom abutments and full fixed teeth are constructed and attached.

Implant for full set of teeth

For those who require a quicker solution, there are immediate load implants, also known as same-day implants or immediate function implants. This technique involves placing the implants and attaching a temporary set of fixed teeth on the same day. The primary advantage of this approach is that patients leave the dental office with functional teeth. However, this approach is not suitable for every patient. The success of immediate load implants depends on factors such as bone quality and quantity, as well as the overall health of the patient.

Another option that provides quicker results is the All-on-4 or All-on-6 system. These systems use four or six implants to support a full arch of teeth. The technique allows for the placement of a fixed temporary prosthesis on the same day as the implant surgery. This approach is particularly advantageous for patients with limited bone density, as it utilises strategic implant placement to maximise stability.

For patients who are not candidates for immediate load implants or All-on-4/All-on-6 systems, interim solutions such as temporary dentures or bridges can be utilised.

While the standard dental implant process typically requires a four to six-month waiting period for full restoration, there are accelerated options available. Immediate load implants and All-on-4/All-on-6 systems can provide functional and aesthetic results within a day or a week, respectively. These approaches, however, depend on careful planning and individual patient factors. Exploring these alternatives with your dental care provider will help you choose the best solution to meet your needs and achieve a restored smile and improved functionality.

Pictures: istock

Dr Kamlesh Kothari, MDS, DND, DICOI, is a dental implant specialist, cosmetic dentist and maxillofacial surgeon in Calcutta. He is the founder and clinical director of Aesthetica, 2/7 Sarat Bose Road, Vasundhara Building. He can be contacted at 9830183000, 40035900, www.aesthetica.co.in and Instagram profile @drkamleshkothari. ‘Tooth Troubles’ addresses queries about dental and maxillofacial surgery. You can send your questions to drkamleshkothari@gmail.com