Vertical Dimension Loss

The doctors of All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach are experienced providers of dentures to patients who need a second chance at oral health. Regardless of whether they need a full set of dentures or just partials, one of the most important aspects of fabricating dentures is to account for vertical dimension loss. Also known as bite collapse, this consequence of tooth loss and bone degradation affects the function, comfort, and aesthetics of the jaw bone.

Tooth enamel can be worn away, and when the back teeth are missing, the front teeth may be pushed out to an angle as they are subjected to chewing forces they cannot withstand. In either case, the bite will be shortened. This will make the face appear more wrinkled and cause the mouth look disproportionately small. It also frequently causes pain in the jaw, head, neck, and shoulders.

Temporary dentures are often a part of the treatment process. Besides providing the patient with the ability to chew while their mouths heal from extractions, they also give us with a chance to ensure that prosthetic teeth are sized correctly. Properly fitted dentures can restore the shape of the patients’ face in addition to providing a dazzling smile.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Research into Filling Failure

Patients at All Coast Dental in Pacific Beach receive preventive care in accordance with the latest scientific research. To help make sure everyone understands the importance of keeping regular appointments, we wanted to share the results of a new study which examined why dental fillings can fail early.

Smoking is one of the most common factors among failed implants, and it’s the same with failed fillings. The study found that men who smoked had a much higher chance of a filling needing to be replaced after just two years. On average, a filling lasts for ten years. Alcohol use was also correlated with filling failure, as was a family history of failed fillings. While shared lifestyles may be behind this, scientists also are interested in researching whether there is a genetic predisposition toward filling failure. If so, it is especially important for people who are at-risk to get their fillings assessed and replaced regularly.

The study was initially prompted by a desire to compare amalgam to the new white composite resins. Encouragingly, the study found there was no difference in longevity between the two construction materials.

Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos operate All Coast Dental at 2180 Garnet Ave, Suite 1-K, Pacific Beach, California, 92109. To schedule an appointment, call 858-270-4904 or visit All Coast Dental and fill out a contact sheet.