Will it hurt?
There  are few issues in our practice that have been the focus of as much emphasis as this one. Today, with advances in equipment and medications, our clients are 
much more comfortable in their treatment. Once we have a treatment plan outlined, your specific questions about discomfort and pain control can easily be answered. Above all don't put off cosmetic procedures and certainly not needed dental care, because of past fears of pain. Give us the chance to show you what today's dentistry has to offer.

What is a dental crown and  why it is needed?
A dental crown is a  tooth-shaped "cap" that is placed over a tooth -- covering the tooth to restore its shape and size, strength, and/or to improve its appearance. 
A dental crown may be needed in the following situations:
-To protect a weak tooth (for instance, from decay) from breaking or to hold together parts of a cracked tooth
-To restore an already broken tooth or a tooth that has been severely worn down
-To cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn't a lot of tooth left
-To hold a dental bridge in place
-To cover misshapened or severely discolored teeth
-To cover a dental implant

What Types of Crowns Are Available?
Permanent crowns can be made from porcelain-fused-to-metal or all ceramic (metal
free). Porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns can be color matched to your  adjacent teeth. Next to all-ceramic crowns, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns look most like normal teeth. However, sometimes the metal underlying the crown's porcelain can show through as a dark line, especially at the gum line and even more so if your gums recede. These crowns can be a good choice for front or back teeth.
All-ceramic  or all-porcelain dental crowns provide the best natural color match than any other crown type and may be more suitable for people with metal allergies. However, they are not as strong as porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. All-ceramic crowns are a good choice for front and back teeth. A new kind of ceramic called “zircon” was developed few years ago to increase the strength of the full ceramic crowns. It is stronger than the porcelain-fused-to-metal crown. It is indicated for people with grinding problems.

Is tooth whitening safe?
Whitening teeth with carbamide peroxide has been proven to be safe for teeth and gums.Though some patients have experienced increased tooth sensitivity, these
symptoms tend to disappear within 1-3 days. In any case, any reaction should be
reported immediately to your dentist.

Who is a periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and  treatment of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants.  Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. Periodontists are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. In addition, they can perform cosmetic periodontal procedures to help you achieve the smile you desire. Often, dentists refer their patients to a periodontist when their periodontal disease is advanced. However, you don't need a referral to see a periodontist.
(Pr Hani KHOURY and DR Jeff KHOURY are the periodontists at KHOURY DENTAL CLINIC).

When should I see a periodontist?
If you notice any symptoms of periodontal disease, including:
   ·Gums that bleed easily, such as during brushing or flossing
   ·Red, swollen or tender gums
   ·Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
   ·Persistent bad breath
   ·Pus between the teeth and gums
   ·Loose or separating teeth
   ·A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
   ·A sore or irritation in your mouth that does not get better within two weeks
   ·If you are thinking of becoming pregnant
   ·If you have a family member with periodontal disease
   ·If you have heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease or osteoporosis.
   ·If you feel that your teeth are too short or that your smile is too "gummy."
   ·If you are not satisfied with your current tooth replacement option, such  as
     bridges or dentures, and may be interested in dental implants.

Is there a link between gum disease and heart disease?
Evidence is now emerging that dental health may also be a significant risk for the development of coronary heart disease. Studies have found the incidence of heart disease is about twice as high in people with periodontal disease. Studies also show that diabetics with periodontal disease were three times more likely to have heart attacks than those without periodontal disease.


Is there a link between gum disease and diabetes?
Research suggests that the relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes goes both ways. People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease than people without diabetes. Those people who don't have their diabetes under control are especially at risk. People with periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar. Thus, diabetics who have periodontal disease should be treated to eliminate the periodontal infection.

Is there a link between gum disease and pre-term low birth weights?
Pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small. For a long time we've known that risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use, and drug use contribute to mothers having babies that are born prematurely at a low birth weight.It appears that periodontal disease triggers increased levels of biological fluids that induce labor. Furthermore, data suggests that women whose periodontal condition worsens during pregnancy have an even higher risk of having a premature baby. All infections are cause for concern among pregnant women because they pose a risk to the health of the baby. The American Academy of Periodontology recommends that women considering pregnancy have a periodontal evaluation. 

Is it safe to have x-rays taken?
Some patients have concerns about the safety of X-rays, as well as the need for them in the dental office. Although X-rays and radiation sound intimidating, the amount of radiation used to expose dental X-rays is very small. In fact, the average patient may actually receive more radiation from sitting in front of the television during a year than from traditional X-rays taken at most dentists' office. Dental X-rays are an indispensable part of diagnosing your oral health.

X-rays are taken to detect a number of conditions or diseases in  the mouth. By taking them periodically, it helps us detect adverse situations early. If you are generally in good health and have had routine dental care, chances are you may only need to have them every year or two.

We protect patients during the taking of X-rays with a lead apron. This apron is draped over your shoulders and protects you from your neck to mid-thighs.

Embryonic tissues are also sensitive to radiation. If you are in the first trimester of pregnancy (the first three months) or think you may be pregnant, please tell us. We generally avoid taking X-rays during this time, unless you have a specific dental emergency. Once you are past the first trimester, if there is reason for taking X-rays, we will take every precaution to protect you and your unborn baby from any harmful radiation.