Dental Inlays vs. Onlays — What’s the Difference?

Modern dentistry offers a variety of options for patients with damaged teeth. Although fillings and crowns are commonly used to repair tooth damage caused by decay or injury, there are times when these treatments aren’t the best choice. For teeth that are not damaged enough for a crown but too damaged for a filling, there are dental onlays and inlays to protect the tooth.

About Inlays and Onlays 

A dental inlay is similar to a traditional filling and is usually made from porcelain, although sometimes inlays are crafted from a composite resin material or even a metal such as gold. The inlay is placed inside the tooth, within the top edges. While a traditional filling can cause further damage to a compromised tooth, an inlay will not. Today’s inlays are made to blend in with the color of your natural teeth.

An onlay is sometimes called a partial crown, because it fits over the cusp of the tooth, protecting more than one face of a tooth. Onlays are very similar to inlays; they’re made from the same material and placed in basically the same way. If you have a damaged tooth, Dr. Bauman can determine if an inlay or onlay is the right dental strategy for you.

Advantages of Inlays and Onlays

Both inlays and onlays are a conservative dental approach that can protect your teeth from further damage and eliminate the need for an extraction. Advantages of inlays and onlays include:

• Stability — Inlays and onlays are precisely fitted to ensure maximum stability. In addition, they can actually strengthen the integrity of the tooth without removing any healthy enamel.
• Easy Cleaning — With inlays and onlays, the tooth is easier to keep clean than it would be with a dental crown. They don’t stain, and seal the tooth to keep bacteria out.
• Protection — Inlays and onlays can protect weak areas of your tooth from further damage.

With inlays and onlays, there’s no need to completely reshape the tooth. This is another reason why these techniques are considered conservative or minimally invasive.

How Inlays and Onlays are placed

Inlays and onlays can be done in two office visits. During the first visit, an impression of the tooth is captured. This allows the inlay or onlay to be precisely crafted for a perfect fit. The dentist can place a temporary filling to protect your tooth while you’re waiting for the inlay or onlay to be made. When you come in for your second visit, the temporary filling is removed and the inlay or onlay is permanently bonded to the tooth.

Quality Dental Care in Fanwood and Scotch Plains

At the Fanwood, NJ dental office of Dr. Lawrence Bauman, we handle inlays and onlays in addition to a wide variety of other dental procedures. Whether you need a routine checkup, a cosmetic dentistry procedure, or have a dental emergency, we can help. Schedule your appointment today by giving us a call, or reach out through our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving your dental care needs!

How Do Lumineers® Work?

One of the most exciting dental innovations in recent years is the ability to achieve a beautiful smile regardless of imperfections. Lumineers® are among the more highly sought after cosmetic treatments available today, and for good reason. If you’re interested a smile makeover without committing to long-term dentition changes Lumineers® might be the best choice for you.

Why Lumineers®? 

If your teeth are stained, discolored, misshapen, have an unwanted gap between teeth or otherwise just not what you want them to look like, Lumineers® can change your smile in an average of two weeks time.

Dr. Lawrence Bauman is experienced in placing Lumineers®, and can determine whether or not you’re a good candidate for this dental technology. Unlike other types of cosmetic solutions,  Lumineers® also called no-prep veneers are non-invasive, meaning no tooth enamel is lost during the procedure.

How are Lumineers® Placed? 

Patients are amazed at the dramatic results Lumineers® can provide in such a short time. Unlike traditional veneers, Lumineers® are extremely thin, which means your natural teeth don’t have to be filed or shaped to make room. During your first visit, Dr. Bauman will talk to you about your dental issues and the goals you have for your smile. Impressions of your teeth will be taken, then sent to a Certified Lumineers® Laboratory along with your dental records. The lab will make your customized Lumineers® based on your impressions and dental information.

During the second office visit, your new Lumineers® will be “tried on” to ensure they fit perfectly. Then, your natural teeth will be gently etched to facilitate secure placement. Finally, the Lumineers® will be placed on top of your natural teeth, one at a time. Ultra-thin type of veneer is designed to last and won’t affect your bite or speech. Your new smile will look and feel natural — no one will know you have veneers unless you tell them.

Lumineers® in Fanwood and Scotch Plains

Dr. Lawrence Bauman is a Certified Lumineers Dentist who can give you a total smile makeover using these ultra-thin veneers. The first step is a consultation, where your teeth and gums will be thoroughly examined. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about cosmetic veneer options. To schedule your consultation, give us a call or use our appointment request form.

We’re proud to serve not only Fanwood but also the surrounding areas of Scotch Plains, Westfield, Berkeley Heights, and Mountainside.

The Link Between Gum Disease and Systemic Disease

Gum disease isn’t just a condition that affects your oral health. In fact, there is a link between gum disease and several systemic diseases; unhealthy gums can have a negative impact on overall health. When you visit the Fanwood dental office of Dr. Lawrence Bauman, we’ll ask about not only your dental history but your medical history as well to ensure you receive the best care possible.

What Causes Gum Disease? 

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by bacteria in the mouth. Plaque and tartar accumulates on teeth along the gum line and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone; while home care is imperative to good oral health, it takes professional intervention to get rid of the buildup. If left unchecked, the bacteria progressively moves under the gum, destroying soft tissue and attacking tooth roots along the way towards the jaw bone. Left alone, the infection continues to spread into the blood stream linking gum disease to several medical conditions — including diabetes and heart disease.

Medical Conditions Associated with Gum Disease

There are a variety of systemic diseases that can be linked to oral health factors including:
Diabetes — The correlation between gum disease and diabetes is two-fold. Not only does diabetes make some patients more likely to develop gum disease, gum disease can make diabetes more difficult to treat. One reason for this is because diabetics who don’t have their blood sugar under control are more likely to experience different types of infections — including gum disease. In addition, gum disease that’s severe can even cause a spike in blood sugar, which can be very dangerous for diabetics.

Heart Disease — You probably already know that heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, as well as around the world. But what you may not know is that heart disease and gum disease are connected. Current research suggests that the inflammation caused by gum disease can raise the risk of heart disease. For patients with existing heart disease, gum disease can be even more dangerous.

Stroke — Studies have shown a link between stroke and gum disease; patients who experienced a stroke were more likely to also suffer from gum disease.
Respiratory Disease — The bacteria associated with gum disease can reach the lungs through aspiration; this can lead to respiratory conditions such as pneumonia.

Osteoporosis — The loss of bone in the jaw is linked to osteoporosis; this in turn weakens the structure that supports the teeth and can lead to tooth loss.

Cancer — Research shows that males with gum disease are at a substantially higher risk for certain types of cancers.

It’s safe to say that healthy teeth and gums are an important part of overall health. If you suspect gum disease, it’s important to schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible.

Regular Checkups are Crucial 

Routine checkups are an important part of good oral health. Dr. Lawrence Bauman and his friendly staff are highly experienced in both the treatment and prevention of gum disease. Regular checkups not only include thorough teeth cleaning but also routine screening for oral cancer and imaging studies when needed. Keep your teeth and gums healthy — and encourage better overall health — by scheduling your appointment today. Give us a call or use our appointment request form — we’re eager to provide you with the personalized, premium-quality dental care you deserve!

Risk Factors of Gum Disease

Gum disease, which is also known as periodontal disease – is a progressive condition that can cause gums to become inflamed with infection and rapidly develop causing a host of other issues, including loose teeth, or even causing teeth to fall out. Gum disease is extremely common – one out of every two American adults aged 30 and over has the silent disease which has been medically linked with systemic health conditions.

What Puts You at Risk?

The impact gum disease can have on health increases as the disease progresses. Damage caused by the first stage, gingivitis, is both treatable and reversible. Routine exams help to detect gingivitis, an important aspect to having a family dentist who understand your medical and family oral health history.

There are certain risk factors which leave some people more prone to the disease than others. These include:

• A family history of gum disease
• Inadequate dental health habits, not brushing and flossing regularly
• Lack of professional care and cleanings
• Diabetes
• Use of tobacco products
• Age
• Compromised or decreased immune system, patients with conditions impacting immunity such as HIV/AIDS, leukemia, or those undergoing chemotherapy
• Inadequate or poor nutrition
• Specific medications and drug use/abuse
• Pregnancy
• Bite and alignment conditions

Thankfully, gum disease is also preventable and treatment of the disease, particularly when caught early on, can be as simple as a few professional cleanings, and improving at-home care. If you condition has progressed past gingivitis to periodontal disease, continued maintenance cleanings are strongly suggested by your dentist to maintain oral health and prevent reoccurrence.

Watching for Signs of Gum Disease

Stage 1- Gingivitis- During this stage, the inflammation and bacteria infiltrate the soft gum tissue, colonizing in pockets along the gum line at the bottom of the teeth. Signs of the disease include red, swollen gums that are tender or painful, and prone to bleeding when brushed or flossed.

Stage 2 – Periodontitis - Gums then start to recede and pull away from the teeth, giving them an elongated appearance. The tenderness can extend to pain when eating, or a persistent soreness that may be accompanied by loose or separating teeth.

Stage 3 – Advanced Periodontitis – This advanced periodontal disease stage may have sores can develop, pus may gather between the gums and teeth, and bad breath can become a daily problem. The bite may also be affected and people notice a greater presence of pain when using their mouth.

If you are concerned about having gum disease or have not seen your dentist for more than six months, contact Dr. Lawrence Bauman and schedule an appointment.

Advantages of Overdentures

Through age, disease, and trauma, at some point it may be necessary to look at solutions for replacing teeth. Though many options exist, overdentures have proven to be a more patient-friendly option than other traditional solutions.

Overdentures are a stable, long-term solution to replacing missing teeth. They are customized to fit the patient’s mouth and facial structure, resulting in a more natural and secure bite, allowing patients to bite, chew and speak with confidence.

What are Overdentures?

An overdenture is a removable set of dentures which covers or is fixed to one or more remaining natural teeth, natural tooth roots, and/or dental implants. Overdentures are also referred to as overlay dentures or implant-supported dentures.

What are the Benefits?

An overdenture fits in such a way that the palette remains exposed, allowing patients to continue to enjoy the experience of eating. And, because the overdenture is securely fixed to implants it stimulates bone regeneration for a more secure fit.

Other advantages include:

• Function – Missing teeth make normal dental function challenging, if not outright impossible. With overdentures, patients are able to chew properly which aids in digestion. They are also able to eat without restriction, allowing for a healthier diet and overall wellness.
• Speech – Overdentures restore the patient’s ability to speak without impediment, discomfort, or feeling self-conscious.  
• Comfort – Overdentures are designed to fit more comfortably in the mouth and don’t irritate the gum tissue. Modern dentistry involves using materials that are more bio-compatible and non-allergenic, which improves the comfort levels experienced by overdenture patients.
• Convenience – Traditional dentures can require the use of messy and unreliable denture adhesives. Overdentures are fitted in place using the existing teeth, roots or with implants, which removes the cost and inconvenience associated with traditional denture adhesives.
• Economical – It is possible a dentist can modify your existing dentures in creating the overdenture, which can significantly cut down the cost and time involved in the initial stages of the process. 
• Minimally Invasive – Overdentures are fitted onto another structure and require a minimal number of implants. 

Overdentures are not for everyone, but it’s easy to determine whether or not you will make a good candidate through a dental exam. For more information, contact Dr. Lawrence Bauman or schedule a consultation to find out if you qualify for overdentures.

Cavity Prevention Tips

Tooth decay occurs when foods containing sugars and starches remain on the teeth, eroding the tooth structure allowing cavities to develop. It can affect both the outer layer of the tooth – the enamel – and the inner dentin layer. The acids and bacteria combine to form a sticky plaque that dissolves the enamel and destroys dentin.

Tooth decay is among the most common of all dental diseases. More than 90% of adults ages 20 to 64 have had tooth decay in their permanent teeth, according to research published by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. However, it is preventable and with the following tips, it’s possible to avoid the damage and discomfort of cavities.

Brushing – Brushing is recommended as a way of preventing cavities, and other issues such as bad breath, gum disease and stains. Brush teeth at least twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste in order to remove the sticky sugars and starches that accumulate over time. Remove particles and plaque buildup from between the teeth by using dental floss at least once a day.

Professional Cleanings – Nothing can replace the professional care provided by the dentist. Dentists examine the health of the teeth and gums during regular checkups, and can catch a disease before it progresses to a more aggressive, advanced stage. This helps patients avoid the pain of disease, as well as the expense of more complex, and invasive treatment.

Dental Washes – Rinsing the mouth out with a fluoride rinse can also help dissolve and wash away bacteria and other detritus, as well as provide additional protection for teeth enamel.

Fluoride – Fluoride is a natural mineral that is delivered systemically (fortified water) and topically through products such as rinses, toothpastes, and professional treatments. Fluoride strengthens enamel and prevents the deterioration of the tooth structure – drinking at least a pint of fluoridated water a day is recommended in order to protect children from tooth decay.

Eat Well – Food plays a large part in the health of teeth. By avoiding frequent snacking and by eating tooth-healthy foods, tooth decay can be kept at bay. Snacking regularly means the mouth doesn’t have time to neutralize the sugars and starches that stick to the teeth. To keep teeth healthy, it is best to eat some foods only in moderation, such as candy, pretzels, and chips.

Dental Treatments – If you are particularly prone to tooth decay, talk to the dentist about other dental treatments, such as antibacterial treatments, sealants, and fluoride treatments.

If you are having tooth pain or have not seen a dentist in more than six months, contact Dr. Lawrence Bauman to schedule an appointment. We service the Fanwood areas of Scotch Plains and Plainfield, we welcome patients of all ages. 

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Here's to your best oral health ever!