Services Offered by a Tooth Implant Dentist

In San Jose, California, many people find themselves in need of a tooth implant dentist. As the population ages, the demand for dentists who can fix missing teeth grows, and Dr. Natalie Provenzano has solutions.

Why It’s Important to Replace Missing Teeth

While missing teeth can affect your smile and confidence, many other factors are at play when you miss one or more teeth.
  • Risk of gum disease
  • Shifting between remaining teeth
  • Increased risk of cavities in natural teeth
  • Decreased clarity when speaking
  • Inefficient and uncomfortable chewing
Moreover, when you’re insecure about your smile, you may retreat inwardly and spend less time with other people. If this happens, you’re at risk of developing depression and even anxiety.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are placed directly into the jawbone. Because of this, dental implants look and function just like your natural tooth root.

Three Primary Types of Dental Implants

There are a few different options when it comes to dental implants. Your dental care team will work with you to decide which solution will work best for you.

Mini dental implants

With miniature implants, you get an implant that’s smaller than conventional implants. These mini-implants serve the purpose of supporting a complete denture, and they’re sometimes called full-mouth implants.

Single tooth implants

A single dental implant may be your best solution if you’re missing only one tooth. These dental implants are fixed into the jawbone where your natural tooth used to be. Then, a dental crown is created to be placed onto the abutment.

Multiple teeth implants

A dental bridge can be an excellent solution for patients who are missing several teeth. Dental bridges are ideal for people who are missing several teeth in a row. If you have a bridge, you also have the option to have an implant-supported bridge.

Tooth Implant Dentist in San Jose, California

Dr. Or Simel, DDS/MD is a Board-Certified Oral Surgeon who placed implants and works in the office of Natalie K. Provenzano DDS, Inc. For more information. You can reach us at (408) 226-2542 or request an online appointment.

Signs It’s Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth

It’s not uncommon for wisdom teeth to cause problems as they come in. Sometimes they come in crooked, crowding out the surrounding teeth. Other times they become impacted due to the lack of sufficient space to come through. Impacted wisdom teeth can be extremely painful and cause your gums to swell and bleed. When wisdom teeth cause problems, most dentists recommend having them extracted. At the office of Natalie K. Provenzano, DDS, Inc., we offer wisdom tooth removal services to residents in San Jose and surrounding areas.

Best Age for Removing Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are easier to remove when they’re soft and pliable, generally when teens are between 16 and 19 years of age. However, if they’re not causing problems, your dentist may recommend leaving them alone. After a thorough dental evaluation, Dr. Natalie Provenzano can determine if it’s best to have your wisdom teeth removed to protect the surrounding teeth or your overall oral health.

Signs It May Be Time to Have Wisdom Teeth Extracted

The following are some signs it may be time to have your wisdom teeth extracted:
  • Jaw pain or stiffness
  • Tender, swollen, or bleeding gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth
  • Wisdom teeth coming in crooked or becoming impacted
When your wisdom teeth come in crooked, they can cause overcrowding. Overcrowded teeth are challenging to keep clean, putting you at risk of decay or gum disease. Impacted wisdom teeth can threaten the health of surrounding teeth due to a lack of space to break through. Impacted wisdom teeth can produce pain in your gums, jaw, sinuses and even prompt chronic headaches. The best way to stop painful symptoms is to eliminate the source of your pain through wisdom tooth removal.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Near Me

Working with an experienced wisdom teeth removal dentist like our in-house Oral Surgeon, Or Simel, DDS/MD, at Dr. Natalie K. Provenzano, DDS, Inc. is key to the success of your treatment. Our Team will make every effort to make this treatment as quick and painless as possible. To schedule a consultation for wisdom teeth removal in San Jose, contact Dr. Provenzano at (408) 226-2542.

Steps You Should Take to Ensure Proper Care of Your Invisalign Clear Aligners

When seeking a dental solution that will straighten your teeth quickly and discreetly, many patients in the San Jose, California area are turning to the Invisalign treatment system. Utilizing clear aligner trays, Invisalign can improve both bite and alignment issues. When you visit Natalie K. Provenzano DDS, Inc in San Jose, California, you will be able to discuss the benefits of the Invisalign treatment system and determine if you are a suitable candidate. Invisalign clear braces not only provide great results, but it does so in an easy, convenient, and discreet manner. Taking care of your aligners is quite simple if you follow these easy steps.

Clean Your Aligners Regularly

One of the most important steps in caring for your aligners is regular cleaning. Establishing a routine in which you clean your aligners in the morning and at night with a small amount of toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush will help you keep bacteria from developing on the surface of the aligner, which could damage your teeth.

Avoid Abrasive Materials

Avoid more abrasive cleaners such as regular soap, cleaners meant for dentures, and mouthwash when cleaning your aligners. These can be abrasive to the aligner and, over time, cause them to be dull and become less invisible to others.

Rinse Your Aligner

When you remove your aligner during the day for a meal (or any other reason), giving them a quick water rinse before placing them in the case will remove any saliva and plaque. Rinsing your aligner will help keep it from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria.

Remove Before Eating

One of the excellent benefits the Invisalign treatment system offers compared to traditional orthodontics is that you can remove them before you eat. This means that there are no dietary restrictions with Invisalign. However, it is important that you remove your aligner before you eat. Failure to do so could result in accidental damage or staining. You can leave them in if you are only drinking water. If you are interested in learning more about the Invisalign treatment system and its benefits, please contact Dr. Natalie K. Provenzano and her associate, Dr. Saumya Ram, today by calling (408) 226-2542. Drs. Provenzano and Ram have completed over 300 Invisalign cases and their dental practice is one of the Premier Invisalign offices in the San Jose area!

Guard your health with holistic dentistry services in Central HK

When we visit the dentist, we are under the impression that our oral health is adequately monitored and cared for with great precision. Although general dentistry offers preventive treatment options to keep teeth and gums in good condition, there are also common restorative treatments that can lead to ongoing health issues. For decades, the risk of amalgam fillings has been debated, with data mounting to prove this frequently used material poses significant health risks.

Most people only know of silver dental fillings, as amalgam has been the most-used dental material for so long. Since before the Civil War, dentists around the world found amalgam to be the most affordable and easiest filling material available. Before this time, gold was a primary option. Even today, many dentists, as well as dental organizations, argue that amalgam, as a dental material, is safe and efficient.

Research tells us differently. Mercury, recognized as one of the most poisonous substances on earth, really has no place in consumer products. Many countries have removed mercury from household items due to its significant danger. If not safe for commercial use, how can mercury be safe in a dental filling? An amalgam filling has approximately 1,000 milligrams of mercury, which is used as a binding agent for the other metals in amalgam. Contaminated seafood doesn’t even contain such a high level of this toxic substance.

The fact that mercury is contained within the hardened dental filling does not reduce its poisonous effect. Researchers have determined that mercury is released from every amalgam filling in the form of vapours. Every time a filling is heated when we consume warm food or drinks and when we chew, the mercury vapours enter the air in the mouth and they are breathed into the lungs. Mercury does not leave the body. Whether it is inhaled or it enters the bloodstream, mercury builds up and has accumulative effects on the health due to oxidative stress.

Oxidation in the tissues of the body leads to premature aging as well as disease because the result of oxidative stress is chronic inflammation. Mercury, built up in the body, instigates inflammation, and it impairs the body’s natural ability to detoxify itself, promoting illness.

With mercury linked to a number of chronic health conditions, as well as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, holistic practitioners choose to offer dentistry services that do not include amalgam. In our Central HK holistic dental practice, we are committed to the promotion of healthy bodies, not just healthy teeth and gums.

The seven benefits of working with a family dental practice

A family dentist is a dental provider who offers services at a dental office perfect for patients of all ages, including children. They are also more well-versed in working with patients of all ages and stages in their dental health journey, from a child’s first lost tooth to a senior citizen’s first set of dentures. Whatever your oral health needs, your dental team is committed to providing services and solutions for you! Central, Hong Kong area parents are often interested in learning what sets a family dentist apart from a general dentist.

What are the advantages of a family dental practice?

Below are the seven primary benefits of working with a family dentist:
  1. You can be sure that they will treat you as a person and not a number.
  2. Family dentists will take the time to get to know your entire family and understand your oral health needs and concerns.
  3. When you visit a family dentist, you can rest assured that they will offer excellent service and quality care.
  4. Your family dentist will likely be able to offer you more payment options for your dental care, including flexible financing plans.
  5. Family dentists are constantly taking courses and seminars to stay current with the latest advancements in the industry.
  6. Family dentists are more familiar working with children and adults, providing the specific needs and services for individuals at any stage and age.
  7. Appointments for several family members can be scheduled back-to-back to make it easier to get everyone seen for their dental evaluations in a single visit.

How do I learn more about services provided at a family dental clinic?

Contacting a family dental practice is the first step in working with a dental provider to obtain your oral health goals. Family dentists have the experience to provide a selection of treatments and diagnostic services to get the smile healthy and help in maintaining the results. With the proper education and the tools available at our facility, we can assist in keeping smiles beautiful while ensuring a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums for children and adults in the household.

Central, HK dentist describes the social and health benefits of cosmetic dental treatments

Patients unhappy with the appearance of their smile are urged to work with a dentist they know and trust in the Central, HK area to evaluate their smile and decide if cosmetic dental treatments are appropriate for achieving the results they desire. Dr. Titania Tong is pleased to offer a variety of aesthetic treatments used for smile enhancement. Not only are their social and self-esteem benefits to having this work done, but there are also health benefits as well. Our team can educate patients on the many social and health benefits of cosmetic dental treatments.

Advantages of improving the smile with cosmetic dentistry

  • A more beautiful smile – the primary reason patients turn to cosmetic dentistry is to address the appearance of their smiles. This can be achieved in many ways, and by combining services for a complete transformation. From simple professional teeth whitening to full mouth restoration, cosmetic treatment can improve the aesthetics of a patient’s smile in either a subtle or dramatic way.
  • Long-lasting improvements – many cosmetic dentistry procedures, including the placement of porcelain restorations such as veneers or dental crowns, are long-lasting. With proper care, including brushing and routine dental evaluations, many patients can enjoy these cosmetic restorations for ten years or longer. In fact, dental implants are known for lasting a lifetime when cared for by patients as advised.
  • Turning back the hands of time – teeth that have become dull or discolored may make a smile look older than it is. With rejuvenating cosmetic dentistry treatments, patients can restore their smile to its original luster. This can give patients the appearance of being younger.
  • More smiling – patients who have lived with imperfections of their smile for many years may have become used to avoiding smiling at others or covering their mouth when speaking. When the smile is enhanced, many otherwise shy patients may start to come out of their shells. They will smile more and laugh without worrying how their teeth look to others.
  • Improved self-esteem – with an improved smile comes improved self-esteem. Patients who have had cosmetic dental work done to address imperfections are often excited to share their smiles with others. They may feel more confident in how they look, which can transcend across many areas of their lives, including business and personal relationships.
  • Reduced pain – patients with malocclusion, or misaligned teeth, may deal with discomfort caused by their condition. In many cases, this poor alignment can result in jaw aches or even migraines. By undergoing orthodontic treatment to realign the smile, patients will notice a decrease in pain throughout the jaw and head.
  • Improved dental health – when patients have beautiful smiles, they will work harder to maintain them. With cosmetic dentistry, patients may have a newfound respect for their smiles. They often do everything they can to keep their smiles looking great. Brushing and flossing after every meal is encouraged, and patients should be visiting the dentist twice a year for evaluations. Additionally, when the teeth are straight and overcrowding is addressed, most patients have reduced their likelihood of developing periodontal disease. Crowded or misaligned teeth can make it harder to brush and floss properly and can contribute to the development of periodontal disease.
  • Affordability – while some patients may believe that cosmetic dentistry is only for the Hollywood elite, many find that this isn’t true. Cosmetic dentistry has become more affordable than ever, allowing every patient the opportunity to take control of their smile’s appearance and address common flaws.

Start speaking with a professional about your cosmetic dental needs

Dr. Titania Tong is proud to offer patients in and around the area of Central, HK solutions that can improve the appearance and overall health of their smiles. If you have considered the benefits of undergoing cosmetic treatments, she welcomes you to contact her practice to learn more. Her practice is conveniently located at 13B Oriental Crystal Commercial Building, 46 Lyndhurst Terrace.

Central HK practice explains the dangers of mercury and the reasons for safe amalgam removal

Conveniently located in Central, HK, our inclusive dental practice offers services for patients of all ages. When requested, our team offers the safe removal of mercury amalgam fillings. Strict practices are followed to protect the health and safety of the patients, staff, and environment. For years, the mouth and body were thought of and treated as two separate entities. The teeth, gums, and entire oral cavity were often treated without considering the impact on the rest of the body. With holistic dentistry, the whole patient is treated instead of focusing on a single system. With this knowledge comes the understanding of mercury toxicity, the reasons for amalgam filling removal, and the impact of mercury on the body.

Dangers of mercury in amalgam fillings

Mercury is a toxic, non-radioactive, naturally occurring substance. It is well known as a dangerous material. The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that any level, even small amounts, of mercury can be harmful. Even with this knowledge, amalgam fillings still contain mercury and they are used to treat cavities. Dental amalgam is a mixture of metals, often consisting of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Mercury is the binding agent. It creates a strong material. Metal fillings can be inserted quickly and easily. Amalgam fillings contain toxic mercury which can come at a cost to your health. The metal fillings can crack, corrode and warp, which accelerates the release of mercury vapour into the body.

Mercury toxicity

Amalgam fillings add measurable amounts of mercury to patients’ bodies. Mercury vapour is released from the fillings at all times and is inhaled. It is then absorbed into the bloodstream. When patients chew, brush teeth or drink hot liquids, increased amounts of mercury are also released. Any level of mercury is dangerous. It affects various systems of the body and can contribute to neurological, kidney, respiratory, and even pregnancy-related problems. In amalgam fillings, mercury vapors are continually released. Over time, the body loses its ability to remove the substance and it builds up in the body. This can lead to chronic mercury poisoning and health issues. Mercury toxicity can impact nearly every system in the body. The severity of mercury toxicity from amalgam fillings depends on the number of fillings, how long they have been in place, and how well your body is able to excrete and remove.

Safe removal of amalgam fillings

With an understanding of the research available, we acknowledge the risks that mercury and amalgam fillings bring to patients, the dental staff, and the environment. Dr. Tong maintains a mercury safe office. For the safe removal of amalgam fillings, she adheres to the strict protocol (SMART ) and proper handling practices laid out by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). Patients may choose to have their fillings removed for various reasons. Whether for health reasons or due to problems with the filling cracking or causing damage to the tooth. When requested, amalgam fillings are removed and then replaced with a tooth-colored, composite filling. Strict mercury-safe regulations are followed before, during, and after the procedure. Standard filling removal uses a drilling technique which exposes the patient and dental team to unsafe levels of mercury vapors. The IAOMT protocol protects the health and wellness of those involved as well as the environment by ensuring proper disposal of hazardous materials. These recommendations minimize mercury exposure during the removal process. Some of the measures include:
  • An amalgam separator is used to collect mercury waste.
  • The dental team wears protective gowns, gloves, and masks to protect themselves against possible mercury exposure.
  • State-of-the-art equipment filters and ventilates to remove airborne vapors.
  • Fillings are removed in large pieces to minimize vaporization of the mercury.
  • The patient wears a dental dam and an oxygen mask to breathe from an alternate air source. This helps the patient avoid ingesting or inhaling any vapors.
  • A high speed vacuum is positioned near the mouth to remove the mercury vapors.
  • A special binding material is available for the patient to rinse with after the procedure to absorb any mercury.
Dr. Tong and her team understand the impact that oral health has on the rest of the body, and strive to protect the health and wellness of patients through their dental services.

Tips for relieving jaw pain and other symptoms of TMJ disorder

The temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, are among the most complex joints in the body. They are responsible for moving your jaw in all directions so you can properly eat, speak, smile, and make other facial expressions. Unfortunately, millions of people suffer from TMJ disorder each year, living with symptoms that cause pain and disrupt their quality of life. Fortunately, valuable tips exist that help in relieving jaw pain and other symptoms of TMJ disorder.

Relieve stress on the TMJs by making small lifestyle modifications

One of the first steps to try and relieve your TMJ pain is to reduce any excess stress on the joints where possible. This includes:
  • Avoiding chewing gum
  • Not chewing on hard objects such as ice or pencils
  • Minimizing wide jaw movements, such as yawning
  • Eating softer foods and avoiding very chewy or hard foods
  • Keeping your mouth in an open position with the lips closed rather than biting your teeth together at all times

Try stress relief strategies

Some patients experience TMJ pain when stressed because it can increase tension in the surrounding muscles and contribute to habits, such as teeth clenching or grinding, that are more prevalent under stress. Try out various stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or walking to see if they can help relieve tension.

Talk to a trusted dentist

If at-home remedies and lifestyle modifications are not providing relief, it may be time to talk to your dentist. A dentist who understands TMJ disorder can help diagnose the underlying cause of the condition, which is often key to finding effective solutions.
  • In certain instances, simple treatments such as a nightguard to stop clenching and grinding or a splint to properly align your jaw is all that is needed to alleviate your pain.
  • Botox injections can also be effective at relieving pain in the TMJs.
  • In other cases, damage to the joints may require more intensive treatment, such as surgery.
Your dentist will partner with you to identify suitable treatment options for your unique needs so you can manage your symptoms and get back to enjoying your daily activities.

Experiencing dental pain? Seek treatment in Central HK

Dental pain is a common reason patients seek the help of a dentist in Central HK. Dr. Titania Tong sees patients outside of their regularly scheduled examinations when they are experiencing problems with their smile. This may mean damage to their natural tooth or gum tissue, sensitivity issues, or in some cases, pain and discomfort. Visiting a dentist when something is wrong is an appropriate step to ensure oral health and wellness.

Why am I experiencing pain?

It may be some simple sensitivity issues when enjoying sweets or hot beverages. However, if it is a constant toothache that is causing patients extreme discomfort, it should be evaluated by a dentist. Some toothaches can become so painful that they keep patients up at night. There are many reasons why a patient may be dealing with pain from a tooth. They may have:
  • An infection on the inside of their natural tooth
  • A large cavity that has reached the dental pulp
  • Pain stemming from the later stages of periodontal disease
  • Extreme sensitivity to specific foods or temperatures
  • Sensitivity caused by non-professional teeth bleaching kits

Determining the problem

During an evaluation, Dr. Titania Tong can determine the cause of the pain. Dental pain can vary from patient to patient, and the severity may depend heavily on their personal pain threshold. The smartest move is to call the dentist and get an appointment scheduled as soon as possible. X-rays and an evaluation can find the source of the problem, and treatments available can help.

Are you experiencing dental pain?

Contact Dr. Titania Tong to learn more about the procedures that can be performed to bring the smile back to health. Her practice is at the 13B Oriental Crystal Commercial Building at 46 Lyndhurst Terrace in Central HK.

Discover your unique oral microbiome with a simple saliva test

Our bodies are hosts to trillions of microorganisms, some of which are beneficial for our health while others are detrimental to it. In recent years, you have likely read about the importance of gut health and how the diversity of your gut microbiome can affect your overall health and wellness. But did you know that there is a similar connection between your oral microbiome and overall health? Dr. Titania Tong, a dentist in Central, Hong Kong, explains how a simple saliva test can help you discover important information about your unique oral microbiome and how it might be affecting your well-being.

Oral bacteria explained

A human mouth is home to over 6 billion bacteria. In addition to residing in dental plaque, bacteria live inside our cheeks and on our tongue, roof of our mouth, gums, and tonsils. While we typically think of bacteria as negative players in cavity formation and gum disease, many microbes actually provide protection against tooth decay and other oral health problems. However, when there is an imbalance, harmful bacteria can cause problems with your teeth and gums and in other areas of the body. Because the mouth is the beginning of the digestive system, harmful bacteria can travel through the gut and bloodstream, where they have been linked to several health problems, such as:
  • Cancer
  • Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis
  • Heart disease
  • Pre-term labor
  • Reproductive problems

Understanding your unique oral microbiome with the qPCR test

Using a simple saliva sample, you can discover important information about your unique oral microbiome. Dr. Titania Tong offers a qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) test that precisely and accurately measures the abundance of several different microorganisms in your mouth. Based on this information, you and your dentist can then discuss ways to optimize the balance of microbes in your mouth. For example, patients with an overabundance of harmful bacteria may be able to boost their helpful bacteria levels by consuming certain foods, taking specific probiotics, and practicing excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily and visiting the dentist regularly. If you want to know more about the link between your oral microbiome and overall health, reach out to Dr. Titania Tong today. Call 852-2810-1801 to schedule an appointment.