Provisional Restorations in Las Cruces, NM

Provisional restorations are often used during complex restorative dental procedures to serve as temporary prosthetic replacements while patients wait for a permanent restoration. Provisional restorations offer patients to try-out the look and feel of the final prosthetic and make any necessary changes before the final fabrication and fitting.

Unlike temporary prosthetics of the past, modern provisional restorations are highly functional and aesthetically pleasing. Today’s temporaries are composed of a quality acrylic resin that mimics the look and feel of permanent metal or ceramic restorations.

Did you know…
Provisional restorations are a primary component of smile reconstructions. In addition to serving cosmetic purposes for patients with missing or damaged teeth, dental temporaries provide the following functions:

• Reserving’ space for the permanent restoration by preventing surrounding tooth movement
• Protecting reduced natural teeth that are prepped for restorations
• Preserving the health and natural contours of the gums surrounding the restoration
• Protecting exposed dentin from bacteria and plaque
• Preventing tooth sensitivite
• Facilitating normal eating and speaking

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need a provisional restoration during the course of my dental treatment?

You may need a provisional restoration if you are preparing to get a new crown, bridge, veneers, dental implants, or some other permanent restoration. Temporaries may be put in place to ensure you are pleased with the aesthetics and fit of your new prosthetic.

You may also be fit for a provisional restoration while you wait for a dental lab to finalize your permanent ones.

What should I expect when being fit for a dental temporary?

Temporaries are constructed in a dental laboratory using impressions and digital images of your teeth. The lab will produce a ‘wax-up’ that you will approve before the temporaries are fabricated.

Dr. Borham or Dr. Oushy will prepare your teeth for the provisional restorations and temporarily attach them to your teeth, where they will remain until you are ready for your permanent restorations.

How long do I need to wear a provisional restoration?

You may need to wear your temporaries for just a few days or for several months depending on the type of dental reconstruction you are undergoing.

Temporaries formed in place of crowns or veneers may only need to be worn for a few days to a few weeks. Dental implant and full-mouth reconstruction patients will need to wear provisional restorations for several months while the gums heal and the implants fuse with the surrounding bone.

Will I need to follow any special guidelines after receiving my temporary restoration?

It’s important to keep in mind that provisional restorations are less durable than permanent ones and are placed using provisional cement. It is possible for them to shift or become damaged, so you should be careful and follow our guidelines for caring for your temporaries.

This includes following a good oral hygiene routine, abiding by dietary restrictions, and using protective mouth gear during sports or high impact activity.

Stay on Top of Your Dental Health With Regular Check-Ups

For many adults, the dentist is the medical provider they see the most. Dental cleanings are recommended at least twice a year, and general dentistry is oriented toward the prevention of disease and decay. And since your dental health can affect your overall health and well-being, having a good relationship with your general dentist is important.

Here at Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry, we see patients from Las Cruces, Mesilla, Mesquite, and the surrounding areas. And no matter how long it has been since you last visited a dentist, we’d love to help you get your oral health back on track. 

General Dentistry, Explained

General dentistry encompasses a broad range of standard dental services. General dentists are the main providers of dental care to patients of all ages.  Everyone should see a general dentist for routine oral health examinations, twice-yearly cleanings, and treatment of routine oral health complications, such as minor tooth decay. General dentistry is as much about prevention as it is about treatment.

What’s Included in a Regular Dental Visit?

When you’re ready to visit our trusted team at Mesilla Valley Dentistry, we’ll help you set an appointment for a routine exam and cleaning. First, we’ll perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and other parts of your mouth. Dental X-rays will also be performed as necessary.

Next, one of our dental hygienists will give you a thorough dental cleaning, removing and build-up of plaque and tartar. If your exam reveals the presence of tooth decay or other dental issues, we will go over your options with you. Last, your general dentist will offer recommendations for ways you can improve your dental health and prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues. 

Why Regular Dental Visits Matter 

Most of us are told throughout our lives that it’s important to see a dentist twice a year. Regular dental visits will make it much easier to keep your teeth and gums healthy. No matter how diligent you are with brushing and flossing, there are some parts of your mouth that aren’t easily reached by your toothbrush. Having your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year will help prevent a host of oral health issues.

Frequently Asked Questions About General Dentistry 

What is the difference between general dentistry and preventative dentistry?

General dentistry and preventative dentistry are very similar. General dentistry revolves around primary dental care for people of all ages. Preventative dentistry, however, is a more modern and advanced way of keeping your teeth healthy by preventing gum disease and tooth decay. Our team of dentists at Mesilla Valley General Dentistry can act as both. 

Why do I need to see my dentist twice a year?

Unless you require a specialized treatment plan, your Las Cruces dentist will likely recommend routine visits twice a year. On average, this is how long it takes for a cavity to develop, and our team can address any issues before they become a detriment to your oral health. Twice annual cleanings also keep plaque from settling in your mouth and causing dental problems. 

Why does my dentist take X-rays?

Dental X-rays are necessary because they allow your dentist to look past the tissue of your mouth and into the deeper areas of your gums, teeth, and jaw bone. This allows us to look for signs of oral health problems that we would not be able to spot with a visual examination alone. 

Schedule Your Cleaning and Check-up at Mesilla Valley Family Dentistry 

No matter how long you’ve gone without seeing a dentist, our team of Las Cruces dentists are here to help. We proudly serve patients in Mesilla, University Park, Four Points, San Pablo, and more. Call us today at (575) 523-5589 or request an appointment online. We look forward to meeting you! 

Dental Restorations: Inlays & Onlays in Las Cruces, NM

Inlays and onlays are dental restorations that are more extensive than dental fillings but less so than caps and crowns. They are typically formed in a dental lab and are made of gold, porcelain or resin depending on the patient’s needs and aesthetic goals. An inlay refers to a restoration that is formed to fit the center of a tooth, whereas an onlay refers to a restoration that encompasses at least, one cusp of the tooth. Both inlays and onlays are bonded to the surface of damaged teeth and matched to the color of the surrounding teeth.

Did you know…
that inlays and onlays can serve as alternative treatments to dental crowns when you have a broken or damaged tooth? When fillings are not enough to adequately repair a tooth, an inlay or onlay can be custom-created to fit securely onto the tooth’s surface. Depending on the materials used, the restoration can be created to appear natural and will have the same function of an organic tooth. Inlays and onlays have extremely high success rates and because they are custom made for each patient, most last longer than traditional fillings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for an inlay or onlay?

You could be a candidate for an inlay or onlay in if you have moderate tooth damage or decay and are in search of an alternative restoration option to a crown or cap. Inlays and onlays are meant to look like part of your natural tooth, so they’re less noticeable than amalgam fillings.

If you’re a candidate for a dental filling, you’re likely also a candidate for an inlay or onlay. They’re not suitable for every type of tooth damage, such as cases where most of your natural tooth is missing, so your dentist will perform an examination to determine if an inlay or onlay is the best solution for you.

What should I expect when I get my inlay or onlay restoration?

Your inlay or onlay restoration will be completed over two dental appointments. First, your tooth will be prepared for treatment, and an impression will be taken to serve as a mold for your new restoration. 

You may receive a temporary restoration to keep your tooth safe while your permanent restoration is created.

Once completed, you’ll return to have the temporary restoration removed and the permanent one bonded to the surface of the teeth. This doesn’t take long and you’ll soon be able to smile knowing your restoration looks completely natural.

Do I need to follow any post-treatment care guidelines?

Special care needs to be given to your teeth while temporary restorations are in place. It’s important to avoid sticky or hard foods that could cause significant damage to temporaries. Your dentist will give you detailed care instructions to follow.

Once you receive your permanent inlay or onlay, you can resume normal eating, brushing and flossing habits. It’s important to keep up with regular oral hygiene practices to keep your teeth safe and help your restoration to last as long as possible. Regular dental visits also ensure your restoration remains clean and healthy along with the rest of your smile.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that has been shown to help strengthen teeth in children and also prevent decay in people of all ages. Topical fluoride, in particular is helpful for promoting oral health. The American Dental Association has publicly endorsed the use of fluoride for the prevention of dental caries, as has the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association.

Did you know…

that you might be drinking fluoride every day without knowing it? Many communities add fluoride to the public water supply in an effort to promote better dental health. You can find out if there is fluoride in your tap water by contacting your local water utility. Keep in mind that if your primary source of drinking water is bottled, you may not be getting fluoride. You can contact your bottle water company or manufacturer to find out if fluoride is in your water. If not, speak with your dentist about getting professional fluoride treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need fluoride treatments?

You may need fluoride treatments if your drinking water is not fluoridated or if you are experiencing certain symptoms, such as receding gums. Fluoride treatments can also provide oral support and prevent decay if you wear orthodontic braces or are taking medications that cause dry mouth.

What should I expect during fluoride treatments?

Fluoride treatments are painless and can be administered in your dentist’s office at your twice-yearly check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist will distribute fluoridated gel, foam or varnish into a tray and place it over your teeth. The treatment takes only a few minutes and is only required between one and four times per year.

Is there anything I can do to supplement my fluoride treatments?

Yes. The ADA recommends supplementing your fluoridated drinking water or fluoride treatments with a fluoridated toothpaste.

TMJ Treatment in Las Cruces, NM

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which is the bone structure, muscles and connective tissues that surround the jaw and control chewing. When patients experience disorders of this joint, they are said to have a temporomandibular joint disorder or TMD. Symptoms of TMD include pain and tenderness near the jaw, as well as popping or clicking in the joint when speaking or chewing.

There are many ways of treating TMJ disorders, ranging from non-invasive therapy and bite splints to injections or surgery. Left untreated, however, TMJ disorders can lead to headaches, muscle pain, malocclusion and tooth damage from grinding or clenching.

Did you know…
that TMD alone is not a disorder, but instead a collection of disorders that affect the temporomandibular joint? It is the second most common pain-causing musculoskeletal condition in the U.S. according to the U.S. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, as many as 12 percent of Americans may suffer from some type of TMD, with women twice as likely to be affected than men. But despite the prevalence and wide availability of treatment, only one out every three people with TMD fails to seek treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect if I undergo treatment for TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorder treatment varies from patient to patient, so it’s likely your experience may be different when compared to someone else’s. Dr. Borham may require you to adopt certain lifestyle changes to help facilitate rehabilitation in your jaw. 

In some cases, you may be asked to avoid sudden jaw movements, such as yelling or yawning. Positional therapy, or sleeping on your back, can also be a preventive step to help reduce stress levels. If you’re experiencing symptoms related to TMJ disorder, schedule a consultation with Dr. Borham by calling (575) 523-5589.  During the consultation, he’ll evaluate your symptoms and provide you with a customized treatment plan. 

How do I know if TMD treatment is right for me?

If you’re experiencing pain associated with TMJ disorder, Dr. Borham will evaluate the extent of the condition and determine what course of treatment is best for you. Typically, the initial treatment for TMD involves conservative treatments, or a non-surgical procedure, and bite guards. 

Medications may also be used to relax the jaw or relieve pain. Patients who do not respond to conservative treatments may be considered for surgery or joint injections.

Can TMJ disorder go away on its own?

Certain lifestyle changes may decrease the effects of TMJ, however, for long-lasting results, it’s best coupled with other interventions such as a bite guard or physical therapy. During your initial consultation, Dr. Borham will examine your oral health and determine the best course of action based on your needs. 

What causes TMJ disorder?

There are many known causes of TMJ disorder, also referred to as TMD. Some of the possible causes include physical injury, misalignment of the teeth or jaw, stress, arthritis, clenching or grinding of the teeth during sleep, dental surgeries, poor posture, and infections. 

What if I don’t seek treatment for TMD?

If left untreated, TMJ can have serious consequences that may have otherwise been avoided. You may experience joint damage and inflammation, wearing down your teeth, ear ringing, and hearing damage or loss. If you’re experiencing TMJ disorder, it’s best to put the painful symptoms to rest before they have lasting effects. 

Contact our Las Cruces location by calling (575) 523-5589. One of our knowledgeable team members will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

For years, dental x-rays have been used to diagnose oral health complications and detect decaying or damaged teeth. X-rays provide a unique view of the mouth that isn’t possible with a visual exam alone. When x-rays are taken, the teeth and bones absorb the majority of the ray, making them highly visible on film or on a screen. Nearly all new dental patients are x-rayed, although you may instead request that previous x-rays be transferred from another dental provider to your new dentist. By comparing your x-rays with your full mouth examination and dental history, your dentist can prescribe effective treatment and recommend a plan for preventative care.

Did you know…

that dental x-rays deliver very low levels of radiation and are considered completely safe? In fact, x-rays are even considered safe during pregnancy and while breastfeeding so long as a leaded apron and collar are used to protect your body from exposure. If you are pregnant or think you may be, tell your dentist so proper precautions can be taken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I get dental x-rays?

Yes. Dental x-rays are capable of identifying tooth decay and damage beneath the surface of the teeth where caries are less visible during an examination. Furthermore, x-rays provide a reference point for the progression of decay in your mouth over time. You should have x-rays taken on a regular basis, but especially if you are experiencing oral health complications or are planning to undergo a dental procedure, such as a root canal.

What should I expect when I get dental x-rays?

Getting traditional dental x-rays can take several minutes. A thick paper tab is placed into the mouth, which you will be asked to bite down on. Most patients find that dental x-rays are completely painless and do not inflict any level of discomfort. In some cases, dentists intraoral x-rays, as well as extra-oral x-rays that snap images of the face, jaw and skull. Extra-oral x-rays are typically used to identify impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth.

What happens after my dentist has taken x-rays?

Your x-rays will be saved either on film or digitally. In the future, your dentist may request additional dental x-rays every few years to monitor the health of your teeth, gums and jaw over time. If you are considered to be high risk for oral disease or are exhibiting symptoms of complications, your dentist may prefer to take x-rays more frequently.

If you are undergoing a dental procedure or operation, you will be given a set of post-operative instructions to abide by in the hours, days, and weeks after your treatment. Following these instructions is essential to preventing infections in surgical sites, protecting restorations, and minimizing the possibility of experiencing complications. Post-operative instructions vary from procedure to procedure, but you are still sure to have some questions regarding care. Your [city] dentist will be available to answer those questions and respond to any concerns you may have.

Try to anticipate some of the questions you may have about your post-operative care and ask them prior to your treatment.

Some of the most common post-op questions include:

• How should I manage pain following my procedure?

• How long should I experience discomfort?

• Do I need to follow any special dietary guidelines?

• Is it safe for me to drink through a straw?

• Will I be able to drive myself home after my procedure?

• Will I need to take an antibiotic?

• Will I need to return to your office for a follow-up appointment?

• When will my permanent restorations be ready?

• How do I care for my removable prosthesis?

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I talk with my dentist about the questions I have regarding my post-operative care?

Yes. Your post-operative care is contingent on you understanding everything about the recovery process and your responsibilities in caring for your surgical site.

What should I expect when I speak with my dentist?

Your dentist should allocate enough time in your consultation and pre-operative exam to listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have. You should also be provided a phone number that you can call following your procedure to discuss any questions that may come up at that time.

Is there anything I can do to make the process easier?

Yes. Begin thinking of any questions you may have about your post-operative care, and begin writing them down. You’ll be ready to ask all of your questions when the opportunity arises without missing any important details.