F.A.Q
- What is a bridge?
- The main function of a bridge is to provide stability for your bite if there are missing teeth. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth shift and collapse into the empty space. Without a bridge, the resulting misalignment of the teeth can cause instability and stress to the Temporalmandibular joints and muscles. Bridges can be made from ceramics or reinforced with gold for strength. Bridges, unlike dentures, can only be removed by a dentist.
- What is a crown?
- A crown, sometimes called a cap, is used to cover a damaged tooth and protect it from further breakdown. Crowns are often needed if you have a large filling, a broken tooth or a root canal. They can be made from gold or porcelain or a combination of the two. With modern technology, crowns can be made so that they give you the strength, beauty and feel of a natural tooth.
- What is a denture?
- There are two types of dentures: partial and complete (full). A complete denture is used when the patient has no teeth. A partial denture is used when the patient has some teeth. A partial denture can be used in place of a bridge when surrounding teeth are not strong enough to hold a bridge, or when more than just a few teeth are missing. Dentures are fully removable by the patient for cleaning. Both are made from taking an impression of your mouth. When requiring a complete denture, the Prosthodontist ensures, by using various procedures, that it fits properly, does not impede good speech and is aesthetically pleasing. What is an Implant? A dental implant is a Metal (usually root shaped) device precisely placed in the maxillae or mandible that provides support for retention of a dental restoration, being a Fixed Partial Denture, Overdenture or Hybrid restoration.
- What is an Onlay/Inlay and veneers?
- It's well known that a good smile enhances self-esteem. If you have teeth that are crooked, stained, worn or have darkened over time, there are very conservative treatment options that a Prosthodontist can provide today. Back teeth that are filled can be restored with bonded ceramic inlays or onlays. An onlay is a conservative technique utilizing ceramic material that can improve color, contour, and strength. Front teeth that are crooked or worn, can be conservatively restored with porcelain veneers. A minimal amount of tooth structure, 0.5-1.0 mm, of tooth is removed and replaced with a custom fabricated porcelain facing to alter position, size and color of the teeth.
- Why Costa Rica?
- Cosmetic surgery and cosmetic/restorative dentistry is Costa Rica's hidden treasure, but not a well-kept secret. Each year thousands of men and women take advantage of the low-cost, high-quality care provided by Costa Rica's cosmetic surgeons and dentists. In fact, a 1991 survey conducted by the University of Costa Rica found that 14.25% of all visitors to Costa Rica come to receive some sort of medical care - most often cosmetic surgery and dental work.
