NPD Blog

If you're one of the millions of Americans with no dental insurance, is a dental policy for your teeth worth the cost? The answer really depends on what dental work you need, what kind of dental plan you have, whether or not your company is paying the premiums, and the kind of dentist office you frequent.
 
“Most dental insurance policies emphasize prevention and diagnostics, typically covering two annual exams and cleanings, plus X-rays and, for children and older adults, fluoride treatments”, says Evelyn Ireland, executive director of the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP). Fewer than 6 out of every 10 Americans had dental benefits in 2010, according to a report released in late 2011.  Dental policies vary widely, and choosing the right one can be tougher than remembering to brush twice a day.

What's covered, what's not

People with dental insurance commonly have what's described as "100-80-50" coverage, meaning it pays up to 100 percent of the national-average for routine preventive and diagnostic dental care, such as checkups and dental cleanings; covers 80% of the national-average for fillings, root canals and other basic dental procedures; and 50% of the national-average for crowns, bridges and major procedures, Ireland says.

The vast majority of coverage is provided through employee and group policies, plans that charged annual premiums of between $234 and $432 per person in 2011, according to NADP estimates.

According to Dr. Ryne Johnson, a prosthodontist and director at Newton Wellesley Dental Partners, “there is a broad range of fee profiles though out the country.  One can easily imagine that the same work in a rural community in the Midwest has a much lower fee than a cosmopolitan practice in the Northeast.  For many of the dentists in the Boston Area, dental insurance falls short of meeting the needs of their insured clients.”  He goes on to state, “many of my patients have elected to drop their coverage and pay out of pocket for their treatment. Most insurance companies have not increased their yearly-maximums in the last 25 years while the cost of many dental procedures has quadrupled.” Cosmetic dentistry is rarely if ever covered by insurance, according to Ireland and McLean.

Dental insurance premiums can be more expensive than simply paying out of your own pocket for routine checkups and cleanings.  The cost for you to buy an individual policy averages about $360 a year, McLean says.  Meanwhile, paying out of your own pocket for two exams and cleanings and a set of X-rays in 2011 would have cost about $370, on average, according to the American Dental Association.

For care that goes beyond the routine dental care, most plans cap coverage at $1,500 a year, although higher annual limits can be arranged by paying a higher premium. Unlike health insurance, dental plans don't bar coverage for pre-existing conditions, though some policies may restrict coverage for people with missing teeth.

For additional information, visit NewtonWellesleyDentalPartners.org

Original article Bankrate.com

While it’s hard to believe actress Charlize Theron was once less than gorgeous, the South African-born star recently told The Sun the ugly truth about her childhood.   “I had no teeth until I was 11,” she told the British newspaper. “I had these fangs because I had jaundice when I was a kid, and I was put on so many antibiotics that my teeth rotted. They had to cut them out.”

According to Dr. Ryne Johnson, director of Newton Wellesley Dental Partners, a recognized leader in dental aesthetics in the Boston area, “many people who take antibiotics as a child have intrinsic staining (discoloration within the tooth structure) with their adult teeth.  Often, tetracycline is the culprit and can lead to misshaped teeth or teeth that are gray in color.  I have helped many professionals address this problem  and it can truly transform one’s self-confidence”.

Known today for her stunning looks and award-winning career—sparked after being discovered by a modeling scout at 16—Theron attributes her present strength to the awkward years she spent pretending to have a normal smile in school pictures.   Perhaps that’s how she managed to pull off her unglamorous role in the 2003 film “Monster,” unrecognizable as serial killer Aileen Wuornos, for which she took home an Oscar.

“Generally, the only predictable repair for this affliction is ceramic dentistry (either crowns or veneers).  Sometimes, in milder cases, we’re able to bleach the teeth for an acceptable result” says Dr. Johnson, who has been regarded as a pioneer in ceramic CAD/CAM dentistry and performs cosmetic dentistry makeovers on many of Boston’s most recognized figures.
 
If you’re considering addressing your cosmetic, dental challenges, see a specialist….the difference will make you smile.  A prosthodontist has advanced training and expertise in these matters.

Visit NewtonWellesleyDentalPartners.org for additional information.

Original article Celebrity, General

Let’s face it, as you age your smile changes.  If your smile is starting to show your age, and you want to take some years off of your appearance, there are several dental treatments for an aging smile according to Dr. Ryne Johnson, Prosthodontist, of Newton Wellesley Dental Partners.  These procedures, in the right hands, can create a naturally radiant smile without appearing ‘false’.

• Porcelain veneers
• Bonding
• Orthodontics (braces)
• Crowns

Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are a natural looking solution to a wide range of cosmetic problems. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are typically bonded to the front and tops of the teeth. Because they are thin, light can shine through them and they take on the natural color of your teeth.

Advantages
Dental Veneers are beautiful, strong and durable. Minimal tooth reduction is needed to install them, and they can often be repaired in the mouth with bonding techniques.

Bonding
Bonding is a three-step, one appointment procedure. First, the fronts of the teeth are treated. Next, the plastic bonding material is placed and sculpted to the desired shape. Finally, the material is hardened with a high-intensity light.

Advantages
Bonding produces strong, natural looking restorations, it allows in-the-mouth repairs, and it's a one-appointment procedure.

Orthodontics (braces)
With braces, small brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth, then wires of varying size connect the brackets to provide the leverage to move the teeth and close the gap(s).

Advantages
Braces require no tooth reduction or additional application of restoration materials.

Crowns
Crowns are made of porcelain, porcelain and metal, or entirely out of metal. They are best used in cases where teeth are broken down and need structural support and protection. They might also be appropriate if gaps are extremely wide. If your teeth are intact and you merely want to close spaces, stick with bonding, veneers, or orthodontics.

Advantages
Crowns can repair structural damage, are very strong, and can be made from several different materials.

If your smile is changing and you want to take years off your appearance, contact Newton Wellesley Dental Partners.  Visit NewtonWellesleyDentalPartners.org  for information on these procedures or additional information about Dr. Johnson’s two locations.  Remember, “See a Specialist…The Difference Will Make You Smile.”

A prosthodontist has advanced training and expertise in the diagnosis of problems associated with the teeth, jaw and bite. Those with an awkward bite will be prone to mouth injuries in the future. Dental implants, bridges or dentures help patients by creating a normal bite.  Recently, the advent of CAD/CAM dentistry and three dimensional x-rays allow a prosthodontist to create exacting reconstructions.

Cosmetically repairing damaged teeth or replacing missing teeth is called fixed prosthodontics. Dentures and dental implants are often employed to replace missing teeth where restrictions demand something removable. Sometimes dentures and implants are used to replace just one or two missing teeth but often are used to reconstruct and entire arch.. They need to match and your bite needs to be precise.

The methods of fixed prosthodontics to cosmetically replace or repair teeth include:

Dental implant - used to replace a missing tooth or several teeth. A titanium rod or screw is placed in the jawbone to hold or support the dentistry. Dental implants are generally considered preferable to conventional dentures or bridges.

Dental Bridges - replace missing teeth through a different method. There are three types of dental bridges:

• A fixed bridge is where the false tooth is attached to adjacent crowns…in one unit. Once placed it cannot be taken out.
• Although a short-term approach, a resin bonded bridge is sometimes used to replace a front tooth. The false tooth is attached to the surrounding teeth with the metal band or ceramic-wings with a bonded-resin. To use this method all the other teeth must be healthy and strong.
• A cantilever bridge is used when there is more than one tooth missing. The false teeth are fused to the crowns that are attached to the patient's natural teeth.

Dental bonding - used to improve and reshape teeth giving them a beautiful, healthy and natural appearance. Bonding covers flaws and any cracks or chips to the teeth, restoring them to a perfect finish.

Dental veneers – these cover dental flaws in the teeth by placing ceramic porcelain on the surface of the teeth. Porcelain veneers can help to cover up damaged teeth, crooked uneven teeth, discolored teeth and more.

The indications and contra-indications are influenced by MANY factors.   Dr. Johnson, at Newton Wellesley Dental Partners, can offer you more information and educate you to determine what's best for you.  Visit
NewtonWellesleyDentalPartners.org for information.

Remember, “See a Specialist…the Difference will MakeYou Smile”.

Have you ever had tooth pain? Sometimes a toothache is caused by the metal fillings that have been in your mouth for years. The metal in your tooth causes your teeth to crack. As you bite down, the crack opens and spreads the tooth-walls, causing the pain in your teeth, mouth and jaw. It can be debilitating! Often times, it is difficult to diagnose the tooth that is causing the pain because the nerves in your teeth and mouth are so intertwined that your brain can not identify which tooth the pain is coming from.

I’ve been suffering from tooth pain for over a year. I went to my general dentist last week because the pain was so severe. The tooth causing the pain could not be identified so he recommended I see an endodontist (root canal specialist). There, they “identified” a “suspicious” tooth and scheduled me for an emergency root canal.

I did not arrange the root canal procedure because I was not comfortable with the diagnosis.  A tooth was identified as the culprit that neither myself nor my general dentist thought was correct.

I’ve heard many people speak with high regard about Dr. Ryne Johnson.  I called his office and discussed my lingering discomfort with him.  Dr. Johnson said “come see me right now, I’ll figure it out”.   I was a bit surprised by his stated-confidence in his own abilities.  No one had been able to help me thus far, so I arranged a visit for the next day.

I traveled to his new and beautifully appointed office space in Newton.  With ease, he found the tooth that was problematic and was even able to show me the offending tooth via a digital camera that projected the image on a chair-side, computer screen. The tooth had an obvious crack from the top of the tooth down to the gum line.  Dr. Johnson said diagnosis is called “cracked tooth syndrome”.  Because I could physically see the problem, I was immediately confident in his diagnosis and accepted his recommendation regarding treatment.

Dr. Johnson began his procedure, shaped the tooth and then showed me the crack again; which went all the way through the tooth, from one side to another.  If I had waited, the tooth would have broken in half and I would be facing a  dental implant procedure at significantly more cost.

Dr. Johnson, finished his visit, put a temporary cap on my tooth and now, the bite feels perfect.  As I left, an hour after my arrival, he informed me that he would call me in 2 weeks for an update.  If I’m comfortable, he’ll schedule me for the ceramic, CAD/CAM created dentistry.

I never knew of a “prosthodontist”.  Nor did I realize that a prosthodontist has additional training and expertise than a general dentist.  After today’s experience, I can tell you, first-hand, that there is a HUGE difference.  My experience with Dr. Johnson, couldn’t have been better and I now understand that I should have seen a prosthodontist from the start… and I escaped a root canal!  

I suggest that you visit Dr. Johnson’s website at NewtonWellesleyDentalPartners.org and remember, “See a Specialist…The Difference will Make you Smile”.

When your natural teeth have been damaged, are decayed or are lost you need restorative dentistry. This repair or restoration is referred to as restorative dentistry.  It is often multi-faceted care involving orthodontics (braces), endodontics (root canals), periodontics (gum treatment), implants or advanced prosthodontics (tooth replacement).

According to Dr. Ryne Johnson, prosthodontist and director of Newton Wellesley Dental Partners, most often, fillings, veneers, inlays, onlays, crowns and bridges are used in restorative dentistry.

Fillings – can be metal (amalgam) or plastic (bonding).

Veneers – generally thin, ceramic, custom-made over-lays are used to correct deficiencies in contour or color.

Inlays/Onlays – this procedure is an improvement over the conventional filling and often utilizes CAD/CAM digital impressions to create beautiful and exacting dental work.  Ceramics or gold alloys are generally the material used in this procedure.

Crown – A crown is used to cover a tooth and restore it to its normal shape and size. A crown can make your tooth stronger and improve its appearance.  It can be made of all-metal, all-ceramic or a hybrid of ceramic over a thin metal ‘thimble’.

Bridges – if you are missing one or more teeth, bridges are often used. Bridges help maintain the shape of your face and jaw, and relieve the stress in your bite by replacing missing teeth.

Dental Implants - if you are missing one or more teeth, implants can be used to provide support for a variety of dental options.

A prosthodontist has advanced clinical training and expertise. A prosthodontist is likely to offer the best perspective when evaluating your dental needs; ranging from orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, cosmetic care and traditional dentistry.
 
For additional information visit NewtonWellesleyDentalPartners.org

If you are considering replacing missing teeth or doing away with dentures or bridges, consider Dental Implants. According to Dr. Ryne Johnson, a prosthodontist with Newton Wellesley Dental Partners, dental implants can provide the support or attachment for stable, comfortable and beautiful dentistry.  You no longer need to rest false teeth on the tissue and be frustrated with poorly fitting/performing dentures.  Dental implants are long-term replacements with the functionality and appearance of your natural teeth.

Missing teeth have larger effects on your dental health and your confidence.  People with dentures have 25 % the chewing ability of people with natural teeth.  Often, patients with dentures have digestive problems and limit their ability to enjoy a balanced diet.  Because dentures are artificial replacements designed to fully replace lost teeth both, they affect one’s appearance and can add 10 or more years to one’s appearance.  Additionally, dental implants can have a significant impact on your mental health and self confidence.

At Newton Wellesley Dental Partners, we can replace a missing tooth or design a full-arch rehabilitation using dental implants. If done properly, implants can create a beautiful, functional and predictable option for many people.
 
Are you tired of suffering through social situation with a missing tooth, tired of the maintenance of dentures or bridges or looking for something better?  Contact Dr. Ryne Johnson at Newton Wellesley Dental Partners for a consultation to see if dental implants will be right for you.

Visit, www.NewtonWelleselyDentalPartners.org  for more information on dental implants or to view the biography of Dr. Johnson.

Remember, “See a Specialist…the Difference Will Make You Smile.”

Dental phobia, or excessive anxiety when you get anywhere near a dental office or a dentist is quite usual for many patients. A lot of people will avoid going to the dentist in order to fix the problem soon, and small dental issues will in no time transform into major complications.

According to Dr. Ryne Johnson, a prosthodontist at Newton Wellesley Dental Partners, if left unaddressed, a simple cavity can lead to nerve damage.  Even gum disease, if left untreated may lead to tooth loss.  Taking the ‘head-in-the-sand’ approach will lead to significant problems and significant expenses down the road.  In order to ease dental phobia, you might want to consider the following popular relaxation techniques:

1. Communication with the dentist

It is extremely important to inform your dentist about your fears and anxieties. If he is a very good professional, he will know how to help you calm down before a procedure.  Some people feel extremely embarrassed about the state of their teeth which are extremely damaged from lack of dental visits, don’t worry.
 
However, you should keep in mind that the main specialty of cosmetic dentists is to repair even the worst damages, and they have most probably seen hundreds of other patients with even bigger issues or problem than yours.

2. Ask your dentist about what comes next

Indeed, if you are afraid because you don’t know how exactly the treatment will be performed, you should ask your dentist to let you know the details. If you know exactly what procedure will come next, you will feel more comfortable and more “in control” of the situation. The dentists at Newton Wellesley Dental Partners feel very strongly about keeping their patients informed so they are more able to make informed decisions.

3. Relax and find a way to ‘escape’

Today’s dental science is not what it used to be 30 years ago; procedures are much less invasive and dental anesthetics (‘Novocain’) is much better than years past.  You can also listen to your favorite music during the procedure, or watch an interesting DVD in order to set your mind at more pleasant thoughts.

4. Extreme dental phobia cases solution

Sedation dentistry- this is when the dentist will administer a pill or intravenous sedation. The patient will be put in a dream like state of total relaxation for the entire duration of the treatment.   Sometimes, a minor sedative can be used to ‘take the edge off’ one’s anxieties.

It is important to do everything possible to overcome your fears in order to treat dental problem. If you consider that sedation dentistry is what you truly need in order to have “courage” in the dentist chair, than make sure to find the best cosmetic dentist that can address your needs.

Finally, feel free to visit www.NewtonWelleselyDentalPartners.org for additional information on their doctors and procedures they offer.  There is a difference in dental care options and finding the right dentist can ease your anxieties.

World Dental

Dr. Ryne Johnson of Newton Prosthodontics is pleased to announce that his practice has expanded!

We would like to introduce you to Newton Wellesley Dental Partners, LLC.  In addition to the beautiful location in Newton Corner, an additional office is now open in Wellesley.  With two ideally-situated locations and the addition of other dental specialists into the group, the combined entity is positioned to become a leader in region.  We are collaborative dental practice with a focus on attention to detail, outstanding customer service, synergistic treatment planning, state-of-the-art therapy and a true passion for excellence.

We are also happy to introduce Dr. Richard L. Pickett, a restorative dentist in Wellesley.  He brings with him a foundation built on 25 years at 486 Washington Street, Wellesley, Massachusetts.  His background, knowledge and community service during those years brings a wealth of experience to the group.

The collaborative approach of Newton Wellesley Dental Partners offers a synergistic and well-designed approach to treatment planning. Our practice grows from the many referrals that reflect the integrity and quality of care practiced by the doctors and staff every day.

Please visit, NewtonWellesleyDentalPartners.org for a comprehensive overview of the practice.

We encourage people who seek and demand excellence to contact us for outstanding dental care, and remember to “See a Specialist…the Difference will Make you Smile”.

According to Dr. Ryne Johnson of Newton Wellesley Dental Partners, more and more young patients are seeking movie star smiles as a result of societal pressures. A study done by the State of the Cosmetic Dentistry Industry Survey noted that teeth whitening procedures for patients under the age of 20 have increased 12% over the last 5 years.

The media plays a large role in our life, and teenagers are not immune. They want the smiles they see on TV and in magazines.

The most the most popular procedures for teens: whitening, cosmetic bonding, cosmetic re-contouring, and tooth replacement for missing or deformed incisors.

Teen teeth whitening  is the number one cosmetic procedure. But, parents should be aware of some concerns and should always seek professional treatment for children and teens. Here are some answers to common whitening questions asked by parents:

Q. What’s the average age when kids can whiten their teeth?

A. We look at each case individually. A major consideration is if the teen's yellow tooth color is so socially unacceptable that it is affecting their self-esteem. We first educate parents about what causes teeth to yellow, and then explain teeth whitening benefits and risks. Generally, teens are safe to whiten once all of their permanent teeth have come in.

Q. What causes yellow teeth in kids?

A. The most common reason young people have yellow teeth, besides genetic factors, is the lack of good brushing and flossing habits. Another cause may be the antibiotics that many teens take for acne. Also if a teen drinks a lot of dark colored soda or pigmented foods such as tomato sauce, that can impact tooth color as well. The key is to brush and floss after each meal and visit the dentist at least twice a year for cleanings.

Q. Is there societal pressure to whiten at younger ages?
 
A. Sometimes. However, girls have a higher awareness of themselves and how they project to others. Boys on the other hand, tend to not really notice (if at all) until they are in the work force or looking for that special someone to settle down with.

Q. Should teens whiten less often than adults?

A. Yes, because they typically respond faster and should only whiten as needed. This is one of the reasons you should not use over the counter teeth whiteners.

Q. Would either in-office whitening or home whitening kits be acceptable?

A. In-office teeth whitening works best since it allows the practitioner more control by doing the some of the whitening up front. The caution with young teeth is that the sensitivity after whitening can be greater; therefore it is important to have the whitening process managed.

If you have a teen who is interested in Teeth Whitening or other cosmetic dental procedure, contact Dr. Johnson at NewtonWellesleyDentalPartners.org . And remember, “See a Specialist…The Difference will Make You Smile”.

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