1. Educate patients

Yes, it sounds obvious, but educate patients on good oral hygiene practices. Mention how good oral hygiene is directly related to their overall health. The mouth is the entrance to the respiratory and digestive tracts. Poor oral health is linked to diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and pneumonia, so it’s important to advise patients on maintaining their oral health. Also, advise patients about the best dietary choices to maintain their oral health, like limiting sugary and acidic foods. 

For young patients, include a tooth brushing and mouth rinsing session during the appointment. Observe the patient’s oral hygiene procedures and correct improper cleaning and rinsing, if necessary. 

2. Perform Diagnostic Scans

During a dental Diagnostic Scan (also known as a wellness scan), the dentist uses an intraoral scanner to create a precise 3D image of a patient’s teeth, gums, and bite. Diagnostic Scans empower dentists to practice preventative care by detecting and treating oral health issues before they become worse and allow dentists to monitor changes over time.

Example: If a Diagnostic Scan detects tooth grinding, the dentist can stop further damage by treating the root cause like anxiety or sleep apnea.

A Diagnostic Scan is a great opportunity to educate patients about their oral health. As you and the patient look at the results together, discuss the patient’s history and current issues, and suggest treatments. This encourages the patient to feel connected to their oral health and promotes co-discovery, which leads to increased case acceptance—an important part of successful preventative care.

3. Encourage fluoride use

Educate patients on the importance of fluoride use in maintaining good oral health emphasizing the use of fluoride toothpastes and mouth rinses. If the patient is highly susceptible to tooth decay recommend high-strength fluoride toothpaste.

Many US cities add fluoride to their tap water but not all do. If you live in an area that doesn’t provide fluoridated tap water, encourage patients to use fluoridated water to help prevent tooth decay.

4. Recommend fluoride varnish and dental fissure sealant

Fluoride Varnishes (Duraphat, Prevident, Fluoridin, Cavity Shield, etc.) are effective for caries prevention in all age groups. For patients with a moderate risk of cavities, a twice-a-year fluoride varnish application is recommended. 

Pit and fissure sealants (BeautiSealant, Embrace, TRIAGE EP, etc.) form a hard shield that keeps food and bacteria from getting into tiny teeth pits and fissures. Applied to the premolar and molar teeth, sealants prevent tooth decay in all patients. 

Young children who are at risk for dental caries can benefit from the application of sealant. Sealant is placed on the occlusal surfaces of the first permanent molars. Inform the child’s parent or guardian about this protective treatment, before teeth eruption.

5. Practice proactive dentistry

Proactive dentistry includes addressing dental issues early and employing strategies to help prevent future problems. Also, identifying and treating issues before they become worse and preventing the need for future invasive procedures.  

For example, you may advise treatment to strengthen a weak or cracked tooth to prevent further breakage such as a new filling or a crown to protect it. Preventative treatment is preferred to delaying treatment until the condition worsens and a dental emergency happens.

Thorough patient education, Diagnostic Scans, fluoride treatment, and regular checkups allow dentists to detect and treat problems in the earliest stages, preventing the need for more extensive treatment in the future.

Why is preventive care important?

Many oral diseases are preventable with early detection and treatment. Good oral hygiene combined with early detection and routine treatment saves the patient money. Since restorative and emergency treatments are less likely, money spent on preventive care is reduced. 

Preventive dentistry earns your patient’s trust, which makes case acceptance easier. New patients who feel well cared for are more likely to become regular patients, which benefits you and your practice.

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Resources: 

https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/48185

https://www.dentalhealth.org/preventive-care-and-oral-hygiene

https://www.dentalproductsreport.com/view/from-reactive-to-proactive-dentistry

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What is a healing abutment?

Healing abutments are usually made of commercially pure titanium or titanium alloy. Healing abutments or healing caps are larger than cover screws and come in different widths and heights. A healing abutment shapes the gums and keeps the implant hole open. After insertion, healing abutments are visible above the gumline.  

When is a healing abutment placed?

Depending on the condition and the dentist’s preference, healing abutments may be used in a single-stage procedure or during Stage 2.

1. In a single-stage procedure, sometimes referred to as immediate healing abutment placement, healing abutments are placed immediately after the implant body is drilled into the jawbone. 
2. Healing abutments are inserted immediately before implant crown placement (Stage 2).

Pros of using a healing abutment

• Healing abutments help improve soft tissue contours by providing structure and support.
• They shape the gums. The gums heal around the abutment to keep the implant hole open.

Cons of using a healing abutment

• They are larger than cover screws and sold in varying heights and widths. 
• The patient can see and feel the abutment.
• The abutment may unscrew and fall into the patient’s mouth.

Healing abutments: Indications for use 

Healing abutments are intended for use with root-form endosseous dental implants to aid in prosthetic rehabilitation.

What is a cover screw? 

Cover screws are made of commercially pure titanium or zirconia. They come in different widths and when inserted, do not protrude above the gumline. A cover screw works similar to a manhole cover keeping blood and food debris from entering the implant hole. 

When is a cover screw placed?

A cover screw is inserted into the implant body immediately after the implant body is drilled into the jawbone.

Pros of using cover screws

• A cover screw blocks the hole in the top of the implant body to keep gums, blood and debris from entering.
• Cover screws are smaller than abutments, do not show above the gumline, and are undetectable by the patient.
• Cover screws come in varying widths compared to abutments, which come in varying widths and heights. 

Both are transitional dental implant parts used to keep gums, blood, or debris from entering the implant hole, in this article we’ll cover using healing abutments vs cover screws.

Cons of using cover screws

Like abutments, cover screws may detach and fall into the patient’s mouth.

Cover screws: Indications for use 

Cover screws are intended to be used in the maxilla or mandible connected to the endosseous implant. They protect the internal threads and implant body during the healing phase and keep the soft tissue clear of the implant interface.

Healing abutments vs cover screws

Some dentists prefer to place the healing abutment during implant body placement, using the abutment as a substitute for the cover screw. Other dentists prefer to place a cover screw during implant body placement, believing the cover screw will allow the gums to heal more efficiently.

Using healing abutments in digital implant restorations

Dentists, oral surgeons, periodontists, and prosthodontists often use CBCT imaging (3-dimensional X-ray) and full-mouth impressions (PVS impressions or digital) when placing implants.

Placing implants requires the use of dental implant parts and materials including:

• Implant body / implant fixture
• Cover screw
• Healing abutment (depending on the stage of the implant process)
• Implant crown

An overview of implant placement

1. A titanium implant body is drilled into patient’s jawbone. The dentist may use an implant surgical guide for precision placement.

2. The dentist will either cover the implant with gum tissue or place a healing abutment. Both healing abutments and cover screws may be used during the healing and osseointegration stage.

3. The dentist and patient wait three-to-six months for proper healing and osseointegration.

4. The dentist unscrews the healing abutment and replaces it with a different abutment that connects the implant body to the implant crown.

5. The crown is placed on top of the new abutment. The tooth is restored and the implant process is completed.

Digital dental implants with Dandy

Dandy offers a wide selection of high-quality dental implant parts and materials.

We help dentists simplify implant placement with a fully digital workflow and provide everything you’ll need to optimize your implant process including:

• A 3D-printed model for physical fit check on your patient
• Free scan bodies
• Dedicated implant designers
• Consultation with our expert implant planning team.
• Support for complex cases
• A healing abutment (if requested)

Upgrade your practice today with Dandy.

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What are teeth whitening trays?

Tooth whitening or bleaching trays are pliable, plastic containers that hold whitening gel around the teeth. During in-office whitening treatment, you, the dentist provide a custom whitening tray, molded to fit the patient’s mouth.

What is whitening gel made of?

A whitening gel is composed of a serum with the active ingredient most often being hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, or PAP (phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid). When placed on the teeth, the serum forms a concentrated film.

Teeth whitening options for patients

There are two preferred choices when offering teeth whitening treatment to patients:

• Professional in-office treatment 
• Professional take-home whitening kits (available through your dental practice)

Some patients may mention a third option, at-home whitening kits purchased at a pharmacy or online, but that is not recommended for ideal outcomes. 

Pros and cons of teeth bleaching trays with a dental professional

Gel strength

Professional, in-practice teeth whitening treatment usually offers a higher percentage of peroxide (15–43%), compared to over-the-counter products (3–20%). 

Time

In-office whitening can be quicker than at-home whitening because professional products offer a higher concentration of peroxide. There are dentists who offer whitening treatment that produces strong results in one, two-hour appointment, which is lengthier but cuts down on practice visits.

Some professional whitening systems claim that heat or blue light will activate the product, dentists working with those use heat or a laser to increase the speed and intensity of the whitening process that can’t be replicated with the same intensity at home. 

Pretreatment cleaning

Before treatment at a dental practice, the patient will receive an oral exam and a cleaning. Removing plaque and tartar helps whitening products do their best by eliminating buffers.  

Cost

Costs of in-office teeth whitening vary, but prices usually range between $500 and $1,000 US. OTC whitening kits are mainly priced between $150 to $600. 

Tray fit

During in-practice whitening treatment, the patient gets a custom tray to best fit their teeth. Trays in OTC kits may not accurately fit the patient, providing imperfect results. 

Aftercare

Dentists may provide at-home whitening trays to patients—extending the treatment. Patients should use at-home trays once every six months or as directed to maintain their smile. 

Is your patient a good candidate for teeth whitening?

A patient may not be a good candidate for whitening treatment if they are:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Under the age of 16
• Allergic to hydrogen peroxide or any other ingredient in the gel

Please remind your patients that not all stains or discoloration can be removed with teeth whitening. Some stains caused by disease or medication will not respond to whitening treatments and require more involved procedures. During a pre-whitening checkup, determine the cause of stains and if tooth whitening is the best option. This can save the patient time, and money, and forge more trust between you two.

Tools dentists have that patients don’t for teeth whitening

Unlike at-home procedures, you have a variety of equipment and tools in your practice used to make the teeth whitening process more comfortable for patients.

Lip retractors

A lip retractor holds the patient’s mouth open. It also allows the patient to relax their jaw muscles during the procedure, relieving tension. 

Gauze

Placing gauze in the mouth absorbs saliva, keeping the oral cavity dry.

Rubber dam

A rubber dam works as a barrier to protect gum tissue from the whitening gel, minimizing tooth sensitivity.

Professional shade matching guide

During each whitening session, a dental professional will assess tooth shade and match each tooth to the corresponding color on the guide, providing optimal results.

Conclusion

Dentists should explain to their patients that bleaching is done more effectively in your practice because of the intensity of the professional whitening gel, tools already in your office, and the fit of a professional dental tray.

Dandy bleaching trays

Dandy bleaching trays are custom-made to fit, providing a superior and more comfortable whitening experience for patients. We manufacture our bleaching trays similarly to our night guard—but they are thinner (0.5mm-1.0mm) and more flexible. The scalloped edge of a Dandy bleaching tray prevents the whitening gel from touching gum tissues, which aids in sensitivity.

If you are not currently working with Dandy but are looking to add digital dental offerings such as bleaching trays to your practice, contact us today and we can walk you through our full product guide.

The post How to explain to your patients that your teeth bleaching tray treatment is better than over-the-counter kits appeared first on Dandy.

If you’re a general dentist looking to grow your practice with implant services, digital technology can help make that a reality. Thanks to the latest implant tools, equipment, and new implant technology, you can design and print surgical guides in-house (or have our lab print and ship) the procedure is more accessible. New implant treatment planning software will help you achieve a precise, visually pleasing occlusion. This all leads to confidence in the operatory and outcome.

The basic dental implant surgical setup

Below are suggested dental implant tools, instruments, and equipment to set up an implant surgical room and to place your first dental implant:

• Anesthetic (Carbocaine, Lidocaine, Marcaine or Septocaine)
• Small garbage bag for soiled gauze
• Sodium chloride
• Sterile cups or basins for water, saline and sharps
• Sterile dappen dish/bone basin with bone syringe (if grafting is required)
• Sterile gauze
• Sterile Monoject syringe
• A sterile surgical cassette containing an anesthetic syringe, surgical blade holders, periosteal elevators, tissue forceps, incision reinforcement tool (Orban knife or Merrifield’s knife), needle holder, scissors, and hemostat.
• Sterile water
• Surgical blades
• Sutures and/or chromic gut (soaked in sterile water)

Quality patient care relies on the best technology, equipment, and tools for successful dental implant placement. See below for a selection of tools for dental implants to add to your armamentarium.

Implant surgical drill kit

A surgical kit is used with your chosen implant system, surgical guide, and treatment plan to achieve placement predictability and restoration in the mandible and maxilla. Surgical kits usually consist of plastic trays with surgical instruments held in silicone holders.

Will osteotomy depths vary according to drill kit brand/manufacturer? Yes, they may. Osteotomy depths are designed to be up to 1.5 mm longer than the corresponding implant insertion depth. Depths may vary by manufacturer and within a particular manufacturer’s drill kit. Dentists should keep in mind that a virtual implant placed in the planning software may be short of the full osteotomy depth. V-factors (drilling depth minus implant insertion depth) will vary depending on the manufacturer.

Surgical guide

An implant surgical guide helps the dentist better understand the case diagnosis and helps to ensure the most efficient use of available bone. Accurate and predictable placement reduces remakes, avoids issues, and improves clinical outcomes.

Surgical handpiece and motor

An implant handpiece is a hand-held, mechanical instrument that plays an important role during implant surgery. Handpieces ensure accuracy from the osteotomy to the placed post.  Accompanying implant motors usually feature an adjustable handpiece ratio, speed, torque, and irrigation flow settings.

Bone expander and bone expander kits 

A bone expander (osteotome) is for patients whose ridges are too narrow and require bone expansion. It’s used to spread an implant osteotomy – laterally and/or apically. Bone expanders are often used in the anterior maxillomandibular area to improve osseointegration.

Soft tissue punch

Soft tissue punches are used to remove soft tissue at the surgical site. During a flapless soft tissue punch technique, the tissue is punched out before osteotomy and implant placement.

Dental implants with Dandy

Dandy is a one-stop shop for implants. No matter how difficult the case, we’ve got you covered with options for authentic or generic systems, free reusable scan bodies, free soft-tissue models, and easy parts ordering. We’ll equip you and your practice with the best technology and support so you can confidently begin placing and restoring implants with a digital workflow. Learn more about digital implants with Dandy!

The post Tools every dentist should be using for dental implants appeared first on Dandy.

What is bite registration?

Bite registration is a type of impression that reveals how the patient’s upper and lower teeth fit together (occlusion). Bite registration impressions are created digitally with an intraoral scanner or conventionally with impression materials.

A study revealed that the digital bite workflow was 60% faster than conventional techniques.

What is bite registration when creating dentures?

Bite registration dental impressions are taken to assess how a patient’s upper and lower teeth are positioned and how they fit together. The impressions are also used to fabricate products like crowns and mouth guards.

What materials are used for bite registration?

Wax bite rims and dental bite registration materials are used for bite registration. 

Bite registration material brands include Blu-Bite HP (Henry Schein), Elements (Pac-Dent), Genie (Sultan Healthcare) and Blu-Mousse (Parkell).

How do wax bite rims help with bite registration?

Wax bite rims help the dentist record the patient’s biting position, take accurate measurements, and record the correct lip support so the dentures will fit comfortably.

How does Blu-Mousse bite registration material help with bite registration?

Parkell’s Blu-Mousse VPS bite registration material is used to help “lock in the bite” and keep the bite at the proper vertical dimension for an ideal bite scan. The Blue Mousse can also be used to fill in gaps on worn down dentures. The material stays stacked on surfaces during placement. Blu-Mousse hardens to a plaster-like finish and resists breakage during trimming, positioning, and mouth removal.

Dental materials in a digital denture workflow

With Dandy, if there is existing dentition (enough for a bite), or an good existing denture or partial, there is no need for a wax rim.

If you are attempting to raise the occlusal plane from an old denture you can add material and then scan. That was we can ensure that the bite is in perfect occlusion no matter how worn down a denture may be. Materials can be Blu-Mousse (although it may be too runny and not offer any resistance to being closed all the way through) or the thicker bite wax or bite putty.

Capturing the dental bite registration digitally

Taking a precise bite scan is crucial to creating a successful full-arch denture. Below is an overview of the digital scanning workflow for patients with or without dentition on Dandy’s digital system.

For patients with dentition

Insert the wand tip. Ask the patient to close their mouth while using the wand as a cheek retractor. 

Start the scanner. Begin scanning by holding the wand in the second molar area and slowly moving the scanner with a brushing motion until you reach the midline.

Turn off the scanner. 

Choose “Bite 2” in the software and repeat the scanning process on the opposite side. The software will register the bite.

For patients with no dentition (edentulous) but have appliance

Lock appliances together with bite registration material if necessary.

Perform the bite scan extraorally, using a sweeping motion. Scan from the second molar to the second molar. Carefully follow the arches to capture the entire bite in one scan.

Wax bite rim workflow (patients with no dentition or appliance)

Appointment 1: Take intraoral scan 

• Select the arch(es) that need a full denture to be fabricated.
• If facing difficulty scanning (in particular an edentulous lower arch) doctors may take a standard impression and scan either the impression or the model.
  

Appointment 2: Register bite via wax bite rim and take 360 extraoral scan of wax rim 

• After receiving the wax bite rim from Dandy, guide the wax bite rim into the patient’s mouth to get an accurate bite impression. 
• Apply light body wash to the wax bite rim for border molding and accuracy. 
• Clearly mark the wax bite rim with the patient’s smile lines, canine lines, and midlines.
• Add material to register bite. 
• Highly recommended: Take photos of the patient.
  • Head-on photo with the patient smiling naturally (with wax bite rim in place). 
  • Two profile pictures (one from each side) with the patient smiling naturally (with wax bite rim in place). 
  • If possible: A head-on photo of the patient with cheek retractors in place (with wax bite rim in place).
    

Set up the case and scan the denture 

• Perform 360 extraoral scan of the wax bite rim(s). 
• To obtain bite registration:
  • If single arch wax bite rim, scan with wax bite rim in mouth (from molar to midline) with blue mousse. 
  • If dual arch wax bite rim(s), scan both arches in occlusion outside of mouth (full arch from molar to molar) with material.

Conventional bite registration workflow vs digital workflow in dentures

Conventional dentures usually require multiple patient visits, an extended adjustment time, and days lost in shipping. Plus, each touchpoint can lead to production errors including material shrinkage. That’s why more dentists are modernizing their practices to include digital dentistry.

An overview of the conventional denture design process

Preliminary impressions are made for an initial fit. The patient’s vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) is measured with a wax tray. Wax enhancements may be required. 

Definitive impressions are made for aesthetics and fit. During this stage, bite, tooth layout, and gingival contours are revealed.

A customized denture tray is used to make master impressions which are sent to a lab to fabricate the final model.

Once the impression is delivered to the lab, the techs work on a model from the physical piece.

They send the denture back to the dentist who schedules time for the patient to come in.

The patient tries on the dentures and sees how comfortable the bites feels, this may take a few attempts and back-and-forths with the lab.

After adjustments, the final dentures are inserted into the patient’s mouth.

More adjustments may need to be made depending on the patient. 

Digital dentures in 2 appointments with Dandy

Appointment 1: The scan. An intraoral scan is taken of the patient’s upper and lower arches and bite registration through a dentition or appliance. A precise digital model is immediately exported as a digital file to Dandy’s dental laboratory. An expert digital denture design team will review the digital files to ensure that the 3D-printed dentures will fit perfectly.

Appointment 2: The fitting. In approximately a week, the completed denture model will arrive at the office. Note: There may be minor adjustments for a few patients. Your patients will have their new dentures in two or three appointments.

 Digital dentures for edentulous patients

Appointment 1: The dentist scans the upper and lower edentulous arches. The scan is uploaded and then sent to the lab. A wax rim is created and shipped to the dentist. 

Appointment 2: The dentist registers the bite using the wax rim and performs a 360° scan. The resulting scan is digitally merged with the intraoral scan to create a complete model.

Appointment 3: When fabrication and printing are complete, the model is inserted into the mouth for a perfect fit.

The benefits of digital denture design

• Time savings
• Fewer appointments required
• Improved turnaround time
• Greater accuracy
• Quick replacements
• Cost-effective 

Simple bite registration and digital dentures with Dandy

Full dentures is a complex process, regardless of if you’re using the traditional or digital denture workflow, and an important step in either process is bite registration. Whether you’re new to digital dentistry or you’re ready to start offering 2-Appointment dentures to your patients, Dandy is here to be your lab partner in digital dentures. From our expert clinical support staff to intuitive digital workflows, you can level up your practice with this new offer. Learn more today.

The post The bite registration workflow with digital dentures appeared first on Dandy.

The emergence profile of a tooth is the portion of axial tooth contour that extends from the base of the gingival sulcus past the free margin of the gingiva into the oral environment. 

The goal is to fabricate a restoration that supports the health of the surrounding soft tissue. Also, proper health, function, and esthetics are critical to achieving the best results. The emergence profile is important to maintaining gingival health, preventing plaque-retaining spaces, and maintaining good oral hygiene.

 3 steps to creating the perfect dental emergence profile

Achieving an ideal emergence profile involves precisely placing an implant in 3-dimensional space.

What are the key steps to optimize the emergence profile of an abutment?

1. Choose the correct materials

For a successful emergence profile, the implant diameter must match the emergence profile of the final restoration while also keeping in mind subgingival depth. The physical and chemical properties of implant materials regarding biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and fracture resistance have improved in recent years. 

Implants are usually manufactured of titanium, titanium alloy or zirconium. 

Commercially pure titanium usually contains trace elements of carbon, iron, nitrogen, and oxygen, which improves its mechanical qualities. 

• Titanium alloy is titanium mixed with aluminum and vanadium and heat-treated to improve its strength.
• Zirconium is a good choice for patients who have metal allergies or sensitivities. Choosing zirconium eliminates the possibility of metal showing through the gums or becoming exposed. Zirconium implants are usually made as one piece, including the post and the abutment.

Currently, the most popular implant components are titanium or titanium alloy. 

Soft-tissue development is critical to the long-term success of dental implant treatment, and custom-designed healing abutments play an important role in achieving a predictable and long-lasting restoration.

2. Contouring the emergence profile

The correct implant angulation and position are key to ensuring an implant-supported restoration is long-lasting, functional and esthetically pleasing.

Facial emergence

Beginning from the implant shoulder, with a slightly flat/concave profile, towards the height of convexity at the point where the mucosal margin is established.

Interproximal emergence

Beginning from the implant shoulder, with a straight emergence, towards a slight convexity just apical to the contact area, providing support for the interproximal tissue. The distance implants are placed from natural teeth (1.5mm) and another implant (3mm). Placing implants far enough apart allows for dental papilla to fill in properly avoiding black triangles.

Palatal emergence

Beginning from the implant shoulder, with a straight to slightly convex emergence towards the mucosal margin, focusing on matching the palatal contours of the adjacent teeth so that there is a smooth transition between the two.

3. Accurately placing a dental implant

The emergence profile directly influences how you place an implant. For example, the connection type (external or internal) and the implant collar influence how deep an implant should be placed to retain biological width and preserve the surrounding bone. 

Implants are manufactured with two types of connections: internal and external.

• External connection implants: The implant is connected to the abutment externally with an attachment screw. The implant stays outside the bone.
• Internal connection implants: The implant is designed to allow the abutment joining the implant and the prosthesis to be inserted a few millimeters inside the implant.

How does digital dentistry improve the accuracy of emergence profiles?

Digital dentistry combines intraoral scanning, cutting-edge digital design and precision milling for accurate emergence profiles, excellent functionality, optimal esthetics and proven results.

Scanning workflow is the key to success

After the healing cap is removed, the doctor scans the opposing arch and the emergence profile. While scanning, scan bodies capture 3D data points (trajectory, depth, and rotation). The resulting data points provide the lab with highly accurate information to produce a precision implant restoration containing the margins, occlusal contacts, and the doctor’s preferences. Scanning with a properly seated scan body is critical to creating an accurate restoration. 

Digital implants with Dandy

A successful implant restoration is the result of treatment planning, quality and quantity of bone at the site, surgical technique, and the type of restoration.

At Dandy, we help doctors learn digital scanning techniques through – 

• Free 1:1 training 
• Live scan reviews
• Scan body assistance and more! 

Dandy has integrated the intraoral scanner, the lab, and end-to-end support to bring you the best restorative quality, visibility, control and clinical outcome. 

Schedule a digital dentistry consultation with our team today!

Sources:

https://epublications.marquette.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1468&context=theses_open (pdf)

https://blog.ddslab.com/emergence-profiles-implant-supported-restorations

https://blog.ddslab.com/best-materials-for-dental-implants

https://www.dentaltix.com/en/blog/which-choose-dental-implants-internal-and-external-connection#:~:text=External%20connection%20implants%3A&text=That%20is%2C%20the%20implant%20is,millimeters%20inside%20the%20implant%20itself.

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What are implant-supported dentures?

Implant-supported dentures sometimes referred to as overdentures, or removable implant dentures, function by snapping into placed dental implants.

Pros: Implant-supported dentures do not rely on suction to stay in place. They are more solid and stable because they are firmly attached to implants, keeping the dentures in place.

Cons: Over time, implant rings can wear down and require replacement. 

Implant-supported dentures are removable and so they need to be removed at bedtime and placed in a denture-cleaning solution. The patient will need to clean their removable implant dentures and the area around the implants before bedtime. Because of their detachment, implant-supported dentures can become dislodged if the patient consumes certain types of foods.

The two types of implant-supported dentures: bar-retained and ball-retained.

Bar-retained dentures

Bar-retained dentures consist of a thin metal bar that follows the curve of the jaw, which is attached to two to five implants. Clips are fitted to the bar, the denture, or both.

Ball-retained dentures

Each implant holds a metal attachment that fits into an attachment on the denture. The attachments on the implants are usually ball-shaped and designed to fit into sockets on the denture.

Implant-supported denture cost

Implant-supported dentures are more expensive than conventional dentures due to implant surgery, implant cost, and chair time.

What are implant-retained dentures?

Implant-retained dentures, sometimes called all-on-4 or all-in-6 dentures, are dentures that are fastened to four or six dental implants embedded into the jawbone per arch.

Implant-retained dentures come in two types:

• Titanium bar with acrylic-rounded and denture teeth
• Full zirconium, continuous piece denture

Pros: Implant-retained dentures are securely screwed into place. The patient isn’t required to remove their dentures at night. Because there is no acrylic next to the palate, it makes the implant-retained denture more comfortable for the patient. Implant-retained dentures are stronger so the patient can bite and chew a wider variety of foods. All-on-4 dentures rarely become dislodged.

The zirconium implant-retained denture is made of one material and is considered stronger than the titanium bar version. Also, the zirconium option is usually more aesthetically pleasing.

Cons: With the titanium bar denture the acrylic may separate from the titanium bar. Implant-retained dentures are more difficult for the patient to clean. They are required to clean their dentures each night (suggested) using a Waterpik, floss threader, and mouthwash, which can take a considerable amount of time.

Lastly getting implant-retained dentures is a more invasive procedure for the patient.

Implant-retained denture cost

Implant-retained dentures are the more expensive option of implant dentures. Although, the titanium bar option may be more affordable for patients.

An overview of implant denture workflow

1. Pre-prosthetic surgery

The dentist extracts any decayed or damaged teeth and performs bone grafting if necessary. Patients may need to heal for several weeks before implants are placed. The dentist gives the patient a healing denture to wear during recovery.

2. Dental implant placement

A dental surgeon places the dental implants into the jawbone. It takes up to six months for the implants to fuse with the jawbone. The patient wears the healing denture while waiting for the implants to integrate.

3. Dental impressions

When the dental implants have healed, the dentist takes impressions of the upper and lower dental arches and sends the impressions to the lab to design the new dentures.

4. Denture placement

The dentist attaches the new dentures to the implants. They show the patient how to clean and care for their dentures.

Implant-supported vs implant-retained dentures: Which is best for your patient?

Factors to consider when prescribing dentures include the patient’s health, diet choices, lifestyle and budget. Talking with your patients about the available options and the pros and cons of each will ensure your patients will be happy with their choice and their smile, for years to come.

Which patients are best suited for implant-supported dentures?

Patients that have a moderate budget and are willing to undergo surgery to take advantage of a more comfortable, stable and removable denture. Implant-supported dentures are usually recommended for patients with a high upper smile because they hide the space where the denture base meets the gum line.

Which patients are best suited for implant-retained dentures?

A patient who loves to eat steak and other chewy foods may prefer the implant-retained option. Also a patient with a healthy budget who desires the most comfortable, strong, and aesthetically pleasing denture option is right for implant-retained dentures.

Sources

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24303-implant-supported-dentures#:~:text=During%20this%20procedure%2C%20a%20surgeon,for%20your%20implants%20to%20integrate.

https://www.auradentallondon.co.uk/implant-retained-dentures.html#:~:text=There%20are%20two%20types%20of,least%20two%20implants%20for%20support.

The post Implant-supported dentures vs. implant-retained dentures appeared first on Dandy.

A brief history of dental implants

The development of implants is considered one of the most important advances in dentistry in the last four decades. In ancient times, it was common for missing teeth to be replaced by extracted human teeth or animal teeth, although rejection and infection often occurred. Other materials used for implants found in ancient skulls include jade, sea shells and rare gems.  

In 1952, Dr. P. Branemark, an orthopedic surgeon, discovered the properties needed for successful fusion. By placing titanium chambers in their rabbit femur bone to study blood flow the doctor discovered that the chamber became firmly affixed to the bone, over time. In 1965, Dr. Branemark placed the first titanium dental implant in a human volunteer. 

Today, implants are the standard of care for replacing missing teeth allowing patients to live as though they had their original teeth.

How have implant materials changed with new dental implant technology?

Over the years, dental implant professionals and manufacturers have improved the balance between improving contact with the surrounding bone, the distribution of loading stress, and the ease of treatment.

The oldest recorded dental implant patent in 1909 lists the use of non-corrosive implant materials like gold, silver, platinum or porcelain. Patents published in the 1960s list metal materials like stainless steel, cobalt/chromium alloys and titanium. 

Due to its excellent biocompatibility, osseointegration, biocompatibility, mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, titanium has been the best choice in implant materials, like custom abutments, in recent years. 

Now, non-titanium implant materials like zirconia ceramic and the fusion of various materials are the most patented implant material.  

How has implant workflow changed with new dental implant technology?

Implant workflow—the old way

Usually, implant cases start by taking an analog impression. The impression is sent to the dental lab where they would fabricate the abutment, crown, and insert a post. Often, lab techs would correct impressions from dentists who failed to consider prosthetic requirements while planning. Most tools available to lab techs were designed to fix mistakes—not prevent them.

Today’s cutting-edge digital workflow

Now, instead of the analog process, intraoral scanning provides highly accurate information about a patient’s dentition and soft tissue. Advanced dental implant technology involves digital impressions, design software and surgical guides. The modern digital workflow eases the stress of accurate implant planning and placement.

Freehand Implant Surgery vs guided Implant Surgery

The other major shift in accuracy comes from the application. For years the modus operandi was for the doctor to “freehand” the surgery—eyeball the entry points and angles. Now with digital dentistry, partners like Dandy, will 3D-print a surgical guide that you can insert in your patient’s mouth. This ensures you have a bespoke template in a very specific, pre-planned location to give the most ideal depth, angulation, and size of implant to fit the area.

Guided implant surgery with Dandy

By utilizing Dandy for guided surgery, the entire implant process, from planning to placement to restoring can seamlessly occur all in one place. You have full collaboration from our expert implant planning team.

Explore guided implant surgery

How has new dental implant technology changed Implant Surgery?

New dental implant technology has made the implant process easier, more comfortable, and more effective for the patient and practitioner–more than ever before. Below are a few ways modern dental implant technology has improved patient satisfaction.

Faster healing

New dental implant technology offers quicker healing times. Due to the development of new implant materials and techniques like immediate load implants, patients can have implants placed, heal quicker and use them sooner. 

Enhanced accuracy, precision and durability

Improvements in computer-assisted technology and digital imaging have improved the accuracy of dental implant placement. Implants can placed in the precise position for the patient’s bite and jaw structure, leading to improved long-term results.

New implant materials like zirconia and titanium abutments are highly durable and last several years with proper care. The patient can enjoy the benefits for a longer time with no worries about failure or replacement.

More comfortable

New dental implant technology makes the process more comfortable for patients. Patients often resume their daily activities soon after surgery. 

Improved aesthetics

New dental implant technology offers a more natural-looking result for patients. Dental implants can be made to match the color and shape of the patient’s natural teeth, improving their appearance. 

CBCT scans and dental Implant treatment

An essential part of implant treatment, CBCT scans are used to take a virtual model of the patient’s teeth, bones and soft tissues and provide better results compared to traditional dental X-rays.

CBCT scans assist dental practitioners by:

• Designing an accurate bite while reducing the risk of misalignment
• Accurately measure and localize the available jawbone, and locate the maxillary sinus and sensory nerves
• Selecting the correct size and length of implant for the best stability and integration

Intraoral scanners

Taking physical impressions the traditional way can be uncomfortable for patients and time-consuming for dentists. Intraoral scanners (IOS) are digital devices for capturing direct digital impressions to fabricate prosthetic restorations such as posts and cores. Intraoral scanners eliminate the need for pouring a cast and saves time waiting for a plaster mold to arrive from the lab. IOS is also used in modern implant dentistry for guided surgery. 

Computer-guided Implant Surgery

New dental implant technology has revolutionized the planning and placement of dental implants. Today, digital devices increase the accuracy of placement and reduce surgery time. Computer-generated treatment plans are now taking treatment from the computer directly to the patient. Advances in imagery, implant planning software and related surgical instrumentation, offer precise treatments, which improve patient care. 

Why choose Dandy for digital treatment planning and guided implant surgery?

What our customers say:

“I’ve been working with Dandy’s Implant Surgery team for 1 year. They understand my process and have produced customized surgical guides for me and my patients. The guides fit well and work exactly as planned. Dandy’s understanding of the digital process is expert.” —Dr. Lee Maniscalco, MD DMD. Gonzalez and Maniscalco Oral & Facial Surgery, Birmingham, AL

Our cutting-edge dental implant lab technology and experienced CDT team help dentists plan the best implant treatments for their patients. 

Dandy’s computer-guided implant surgery planning, surgical guides, and dedicated CDT team help general dentists offer implant services and perform implant surgery—improving practice revenue, clinical outcomes, and patient satisfaction. 

Sources:

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/implants

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4040928/

https://biomaterialsres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40824-022-00307-0

https://www.dentalproductsreport.com/view/how-technology-changing-implant-workflow

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21492799/

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It may seem unusual in these digital days, but some—from young to geriatric patients—aren’t familiar with or comfortable with new technology. For example, if a staff member hands a patient a tablet instead of a pen and a paper form at check-in, they may not know what to do. Assessing your patient’s familiarity with technology and assisting them will put patients at ease and help them prepare for a successful appointment.

Before the appointment: Assess the patient’s familiarity with computer technology and their ability to access a computer

Firstly, are they comfortable with handling communications through digital in the first place—you will gain more patients by going digital but you don’t want to lose any in the process, especially geriatric dental patients.

Do they have a computer with an internet connection at home? 

Do they have an email account? 

Do they have a smartphone or mobile device that will work with your platform? 

Walk your patients through the process. Spend time with your geriatric dental patients so they feel comfortable

For patients who aren’t tech-savvy, send printed information and intake forms by mail. Ask patients to contact you if they have questions or if they have special needs before appointment time. Remember that some patients may require longer appointment times. Ensure your website and online tools are easy to use. Provide large text sizing and ensure your tablets are compatible with screen readers.

Offer to assist a patient using a computer tablet at check-in. Show the patient the app and demonstrate how to use it. Encourage them to ask questions if they become stuck. Patients will feel more comfortable using a hand-held device if they know they can ask questions.

What app features does the patient need for their appointment? Remember that too many on-screen choices can be confusing for patients. 

When scheduling future appointments, ask the patient how they would like to be contacted; online, by email, or by giving them a completed appointment card.  

Keep tech-savvy patients informed about app changes or updates

Inform your patients of platform changes or any actions they need to take before their next appointment.

Some patients, especially geriatric patients, may have extra challenges due to poor vision or hearing impairment. By making patient resources accessible and offering support, you’ll have happier patients.  

Introducing patients, especially geriatric dental patients, to intraoral scanning

For patients, both geriatric and other who are new to digital dental technology they are used to traditional impressions, intraoral scanning is a new experience. While intraoral scanners make obtaining an oral impression easier, some patients may be nervous about having a brightly lit device in their mouth. Here’s a few ideas for making the scanning procedure more comfortable for patients

• Ask the patient questions before the procedure to assess their level of anxiety.
• Show the patient a video explaining the scanning procedure.
• Briefly explain the difference between a conventional impression (alginate) and a digital impression. Inform the patient that with an intraoral scanning procedure, they’ll be less likely to experience a gagging feeling or difficulty breathing. 
• Mention that intraoral scanning is the most comfortable way to experience the procedure.

What if the patient asks if the intraoral scanner is safe?

A review by Jeffery B. Price, DDS, MS, Clinical Professor, and Director of Oral Radiology, states that intraoral scans are made with visible light radiation, not X-ray radiation. When compared to X-ray exposures, there is no risk with intraoral digital optical scans. The energy levels of electromagnetic radiation are low and there is no known risk to biological tissues. When the dentist scans your mouth, they are using visible light technology. This is the same technology used in smartphones and digital cameras.” 

Are intraoral scanners safe for pregnant women?

Yes. As previously mentioned, intraoral scanning poses no more radiation risk than taking a selfie with a smartphone.

Increase case acceptance by sharing images with patients

Intraoral scanners transmit scanned images to a computer, which enables quick image viewing and sharing with your patients. Patients can clearly see what is happening inside their mouths instead of relying on a verbal explanation or viewing an X-ray.

Most intraoral scanners have a flexible arm, which allows the dentist to lower the viewing screen to the patient’s level. The patient can see what the dentist sees while suggesting and explaining a procedure. 

Some intraoral scanners have a treatment simulator, which shows a patient’s post-procedure results using a scan of their teeth and gums. When patients can imagine positive results before the procedure, they’ll be more likely to accept a suggested treatment plan.

Intraoral scans vs. conventional impressions 

A review focusing on the accuracy and reliability of images obtained from intraoral scanners compared to images obtained from conventional impressions concluded

“Inter- and intra-arch measurements from digital models produced from intraoral scans appeared to be reliable and accurate in comparison to those from conventional impressions. Digital models produced by intraoral scan eliminate the need for impressions materials; however, currently, more time is needed to take digital images.”

Zirconia restorations: Patient education and treatment acceptance

Zirconia became popular in the 2000s as a dental restorative. It’s often used as an alternative to porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations for patients who are allergic to PFM. More dentists are recommending zirconia crowns as an alternative to PFM and all ceramic materials, usually when restoring a single tooth.

Due to the material’s superior aesthetics, strength, and durability, zirconia is preferred by most dentists and patients.

Advantages of Zirconia Restorations

• Zirconia’s biocompatibility makes it ideal for dental applications
• It promotes healthy tissue response
• Excellent mechanical properties mean chipping and fracturing rarely occur
• For patients with metal allergies, zirconia is an excellent choice 
• It’s easy to accurately match the patient’s natural tooth color
• The computer-aided design provides a more precise fit and a faster turnaround time
• Zirconia doesn’t transfer hot and cold temperatures like porcelain-fused-to-metal does – patients feel more comfortable with zirconia.
• Zirconia prevents darkening around the gingival area so no metal margins are exposed
• The strength and durability of zirconia make it preferable for patients with bruxism.

When discussing restoration options with your patients, especially geriatric dental patients, it’s important to provide the information they need to make the best choice. Make time to talk with the patient about available restoration options. Mention the preferred option first, and then listen. 

Often, patients aren’t familiar with new technology. By providing information and assistance in a way that patients prefer, you’ll experience a boost in case acceptance, patient loyalty, and retention rates.

________________________________________________

Links used for research:

https://oceanceramics.com/blog/pfm-vs-pfzr-choosing-the-right-material-for-your-patient/

https://blog.ddslab.com/zirconia-dental-crowns-instead-of-pfm

https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/preparing-patients-for-telehealth/getting-patients-set-up-with-new-technology/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27266879/

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What do these conditions have in common (besides being fairly common)? For both, night guards can make a difference. When you keep your patients from teeth grinding or clenching their jaw, you help protect their enamel in the long term and avoid any unnecessary muscle tension.

Whether you call them dental guards, bite splints, or night guards, there are several kinds to choose from—and there’s more than one way to make them, too. In this guide to nighttime mouth guards, we’re exploring the different types of night guards, types of occlusal splints, and the processes—both digital and traditional—involved in producing them.

Types of occlusal splints

An occlusal splint is a specialized piece of acrylic or plastic made to fit over the patient’s teeth. Occlusal splints treat a wide variety of TMDs such as bruxism, headaches, postural imbalances related to TMDs, and decreased vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO). There are various types of occlusal splints designed to treat various conditions.

Permissive splints

Permissive splints modify the occlusion so the teeth no longer impede the seating of the mandibular condyles. Permissive splints can:

• Achieve a balanced muscular function
• Control muscle activity
• Eliminate abnormal occlusal contact
• Eliminate the source and impact of muscle coordination issues

Directive splints (Non-permissive splints)

Directive splints, sometimes called non-permissive splints, are used to treat two types of conditions; painful disk displacements or severe trauma with retrodiscal effusion. Directive splints move the mandible forward to help relieve joint pain.

Pseudo-permissive splints

Pseudo-permissive splints are designed to separate maxillary teeth to achieve even, simultaneous contact with the opposing teeth. They are often used to treat patients with acute TMD, as they can usually be quickly fabricated.

5 different types of night guards

All occlusal splints act as a barrier between the top and bottom teeth, keeping patients from exacerbating their dental issues. However, there are multiple types of splints with varying purposes.

1. Hard night guards

Hard night guards are recommended for patients presenting with moderate to heavy teeth-grinding or clenching. Hard night guards are usually made of acrylic or tough plastic and are not as flexible as soft night guards.

2. Soft night guards

Soft night guards are recommended for patients presenting with light teeth-grinding or light to moderate clenching. Soft night guards are usually made from a 3mm thick, flexible, rubber-like material acting as a cushion. Soft night guard materials are more comfortable but aren’t as durable as hard night guard materials.

3. Dual-laminate night guards

Also known as hard/soft night guards, these best-of-both-worlds custom appliances have a soft, pliable inside and a firm outer layer. Dual-laminate night guards combine the comfort of a soft guard with the durability of a hard guard.

4. Flat plane occlusal guards

Flat plane occlusal night guards can be hard, soft, or hybrid. However, they differ from standard custom-fit night guards in that they have a flat occlusal plane.

So, while your average upper night guard accounts for the top teeth and the opposing bottom teeth, a flat plane occlusal guard only molds to the top teeth; the bottom teeth rest against a flat surface. These night guards work well for patients with disclusion or malocclusion (bad bite).

5. Astron night guards

Astron night guards are made with a unique patented design and durable materials. Prescribed to prevent teeth-grinding and clenching, Astron Night Guards are similar to hard night guards but are more flexible providing a comfortable fit for patients. Plus, Astron night guard users report no pain or tension after long-term wear.

Explore digital night guards

Digital workflows make adding a night guard to restorative cases as easy as one click. Add a night guard to your crown, implant or other restorative cases to help protect opposing dentition.

Explore digital night guards

Comparing night guard production processes: traditional vs. digital

Aside from over-the-counter mouth guards, all high-quality night guards are manufactured by dental professionals. There are two ways to prepare and produce a night guard: Traditionally and digitally.

The traditional process

As with all dental appliances, night guard production starts with a consultation. Once you and your patient determine that a night guard is the solution, you’ll take a PVS impression of your patient’s lower and upper teeth.

Meanwhile, the impression is mailed to a dental lab for the production process to begin. The lab techs use the negative copies of the teeth to create a cast. From there, they’ll take your chosen night guard material—hard, soft, or hybrid—and form it around the cast to produce the night guard.

After any necessary adjustments, the finished night guard is shipped back to the dental office for pick up and final fitting (or, in some cases, directly to the patient).

The digital process

The rise of digital dentistry and new dental technology has made the digital process of producing nightguards more accessible. The steps are similar to the traditional method, but there are a few notable improvements.

Following the consultation, you’ll take an impression of your patient’s teeth. However, when it comes to digital impressions vs traditional impressions, instead of placing unwieldy trays into the patient’s mouth to create a physical impression, you’ll use an intraoral scanner to produce a digital impression. Once the impression-taking is complete, you’ll instantly send the scan to the dental lab.

Switching from a traditional impression to a digital one saves time in several different places:

• Chair time – Patients no longer have to sit with a mouth full of alginate for minutes at a time. Instead, most intraoral scans take under a minute.
• Wait time – There’s no need to wait for the impression to dry and harden—digital scans are ready the moment you finish scanning.
• Shipping time – Digital scans take seconds to reach the dental lab, whereas physical impressions may take a week or more to ship.

After the impression is made and sent to the lab, the process again takes a turn. Instead of making the night guard from a cast, the lab techs can simply use the digital scan as a model—once again cutting down on production time. Thanks to CAD/CAM dentistry technology, the lab team can make minute adjustments to ensure proper spacing and alignment for an impressively accurate fit.

Finally, once the night guard is finished, it’s sent back to your office (or to the patient) for any final adjustments and information sessions.

The benefits of 3D printing night guards

A better fit provides patient comfort and efficiency. While the 3D printing aspect is truly unique and one of a kind, it is the digital design process that elevates this night guard to the next level. The ability to digitally design your night guard will increase accuracy on multiple fronts, and in turn save you time with minimal adjustments needed.

Fit: The design software eliminates the risk of human error and utilizes the necessary parameters to provide a secure and comfortable night guard

Occlusion: With digital design, the lab is able to directly incorporate the bitescans to ensure occlusion is correct. With Printed Night Guards you can always be assured that occlusion and fit will never be an issue

Types of occlusal splints with Dandy

Overall, the occlusal guard 3D digital process offers a better experience for your patients and your staff. Impressions take less time, shipping costs are reduced, and the finished product is more precise providing a more comfortable fit for the patient.

f you’re ready to try digital dentistry, try Dandy. From 3D printed night guards to TMJ appliances, Dandy is your lab partner in digital dentistry and digital night guards. The faster your night guard appointments go, the sooner you can see your next patient—and the more likely your last client will tell their friends about their efficient, stress-free day at the dentist.

Ultimately, the faster your nightguard appointments go, the sooner you can see your next patient—and the more likely your last client will tell their friends about their efficient, stress-free day at the dentist.

Sources: 

National Center for Biotechnology Information. Sleep Bruxism-Tooth Grinding Prevalence, Characteristics and Familial Aggregation: A Large Cross-Sectional Survey and Polysomnographic Validation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5070759

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Prevalence of TMJD and its Signs and Symptoms. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/research/data-statistics/facial-pain/prevalence

My Community Dental Centers. Mouth Guards, Night Guards, and Bite Splints. https://www.mydental.org/dental-services/night-guards/ 

Dental Update. The bilaminar (Dual-Laminate) protective night guard. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319040938_The_bilaminar_Dual-Laminate_protective_night_guard 

Occlusal splints-types and effectiveness in temporomandibular disorder management https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9931504/

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Along with enhancements such as customizable thickness, advanced airflow channels, and more comfortable tongue tags, we’ve seen newer thermoplastic materials and dual-layer designs usher in a new era in night guards.

What is a night guard?

For those unfamiliar, a night guard is a kind of mouth protector that covers the biting surfaces of your teeth. While night guard is what it is most commonly called, it has other names, such as a mouth guard, occlusal guard, bite splint, dental mouth guard, nocturnal bite plate, etc. Suggesting an upper or lower night guard depends on the patient’s case severity. As a dental professional, it’s important to know everything about an occlusal guard to ease a patient’s concerns beforehand.

To ensure that night guards are medically necessary, you can assess their bite and deterioration with an intraoral scanner. Paired with CAD/CAM technology, you and your patients can get a better picture of the current situation before crafting the perfect night guard.

Explore digital night guards

Digital workflows make adding a night guard to restorative cases as easy as one click. Add a night guard to your crown, implant or other restorative cases to help protect opposing dentition.

Explore digital night guards

Types of night guard materials

Night guards are molded from plastics and acrylic-based materials. Some patients may be interested in this information because of chemicals used in making plastic products such as BPA and phthalates.  

Acrylic night guard material

Hard night guards are prescribed to patients with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (a dysfunction of the sliding hinge that connects the jawbone to the skull). They are thermoformed of a non-flexible, rigid acrylic material which keeps the splint in place and the teeth in the correct position. Hard night guards offer protection for the most severe cases of teeth clenching and bruxism.

BPA night guard material

BPA (bisphenol A) is a chemical used in the manufacture of hard plastics. According to the ADA, BPA isn’t a primary ingredient in the manufacture of modern dental materials, but it may be present in some dental sealants and composites so read the fine print from your lab.

Note: All Dandy night guards are BPA-free

Health concerns include a possible link between BPA and Type 2 diabetes, increased blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease leading many to believe this is a potentially toxic night guard material.

Phthalates night guard material

Phthalates, often called plasticizers, are a group of chemicals used to make plastic products. The chemical is used to produce a product that is flexible, yet difficult to break. The non-dental concern is that when people consume foods or drink beverages stored in containers containing phthalates, they may ingest phthalate particles. 

The health effects of human exposure to low levels of phthalates are unknown, though animals have shown adverse effects when exposed. Additional research is required to completely assess the health effects of phthalate exposure from night guards but in the meantime, this night guard material is not regarded as toxic.

Ethylene-vinyl acetate night guard material

Soft night guards are the best choice for most mild cases of clenching and bruxism. They are comfortable to wear and effective in treating conditions like jaw pain, soreness and headaches. 

Soft night guards are usually made from ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), which is considered safe as EVA doesn’t contain phthalates or BPA. EVA is also used to line hybrid night guards.

Safety of night guard materials for dentists

If you or your patient are concerned about the dental mouth guard material or chemicals used in making a night guard, contact your dental lab. They can tell you which chemicals are present in the night guard materials they use and you can allow the information to be a factor in appliance selection.

Important facts about night guards and materials

A key to maintaining any restoration for a dental practice

Restorations are complex and expensive procedures that are essential for dental health. Night guards ensure this work is long-lasting, preventing the need for further work and reducing the need for revisions over time. The benefit to the patient is that night guards are a cost-effective and preventative addition to their care.

Night guards are a multi-purpose tool

Night guards can help relieve many health issues, including difficulty sleeping, migraines, headaches, jaw pain issues, and nighttime congestion. Clenching and teeth grinding are often the culprits behind these afflictions, and a night mouth guard can make a significant difference, leading to a marked improvement in comfort and overall health.

Consider flexibility vs. functionality for night guard material

When it comes to materials, dentists are familiar with Soft, Hard, and Hard/Soft options, all of which come with inevitable tradeoffs. Soft guards are more comfortable but do not withstand force effectively and need replacement more often than hard guards. They can also encourage clenching and chewing because of their more pliable texture.

• Hard night guards are more durable and more effective for heavier bruxism but offer less comfort—a hurdle for patient compliance.
• Hard/Soft night guards have often been the ideal middle ground for most cases, but these are still far less durable than Hard night guards, so they will need more frequent replacement.

If what’s on the market doesn’t meet your standards, consider ordering a custom night guard. With a custom night guard, not only would the size be customized but you can also decide the material, softness, and hardness.

Here is our comparison of night guard material characteristics:

Key splint night guards: The newest evolution in night guard materials

This modern resin-based material leads the pack with its impressive combination of flexibility, durability, and comfort, even for significant bruxism. Key Splint night guards are digitally designed and printed, taking full advantage of digital dentistry to create an easily replicable fit. The thermodynamic nature of Key Splints is where the real magic lies: the material becomes flexible in hot water, allowing the night guard to be tightly formed to the patient’s mouth for a perfect fit–offering both excellent strength and remarkable comfort.

Digital production: The simplest and most effective method of manufacturing night guards

Key Splint night guards are easily produced using digital impressions, creating highly accurate guards with minimal adjustments needed. Replacements are a snap using the existing scans, so there is no need for a patient visit until the dental guard has arrived at the office for pickup, making the process cost-effective for both the patient and the practice.

Prescribing night guards: Patients need nudging

Patients may not easily grasp the immense value of integrating a night guard into their routine. Hence, dentists often have to educate patients in order to achieve case acceptance. But the benefits over time are significant. Once your patients understand the value of night guards, not only for protecting existing restorations but also for preventing the need for future work and easing other more insidious health issues, they are far more likely to opt into this upgrade in care. This simple addition can be a game-changer, leading to better dental health for patients and significant benefits for your practice.

Simplifying night guard workflow with Dandy

Increase your practice’s profitability by adding digital night guards to your workflow. In our webinar on night guard materials and best use cases, Dandy’s night guard experts explored how the materials and methods of the modern night guard are a far cry from the uncomfortable models of the past. Once your patients see the benefits, so will your practice.

Offer night guards to patients without extra impressions, dental lab work, or appointments with Dandy. Learn more about Dandy’s night guard offering here.

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