Virginia beach Cosmetic and Neuromuscular Dentistry Blog - Dr. Michael Folck

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

TMJ and Ringing in the Ears

Ringing within the ears is a common TMD symptom. Also called "tinnitus," this ear ringing originates inside your own head and does not have an outside source.

Tinnitus can have many different causes, so your dentist may refer you to an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor or other specialist to rule out any underlying conditions that may be causing tinnitus.
In addition to TMJ, tinnitus can also be caused by:

•    Ear infection
•    Age-related hearing loss
•    Ear wax buildup
•    Inner ear damage
•    Ear damage from loud sounds
•    Certain medications, including aspirin

Your dentist may also consider whether you are experiencing any other symptoms in combination with tinnitus that signal TMJ. Other symptoms may include:

•    Earache
•    Migraine-like headaches
•    Facial pain
•    Neck and shoulder pain

Tinnitus is an excruciating symptom to experience. Many people have experienced brief periods of ear ringing, such as occurs after a concert. For someone suffering from chronic, recurring tinnitus, the experience can make it difficult to think, sleep, converse and focus.

For many TMJ patients, a dentist can alleviate ear ringing by aligning the bite or treating teeth grinding. Treatment for TMJ can relieve muscle and nerve tension that can lead to tinnitus.

If you live in or around Norfolk, Virginia and want to speak to a dentist about tinnitus or TMJ, please contact Dr. Michael P. Folck, DDS, to schedule a consultation.

posted by Admin at 11:13 AM 0 comments

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Veneers vs. Dental Crowns

Porcelain veneers are one way a dentist can improve the appearance of your smile by creating a pleasing tooth shape and size. If you are dissatisfied with the way your smile looks, your dentist may suggest veneers. While porcelain crowns also improve the aesthetics of teeth, crowns are typically used in cases in which a veneer is not sufficient.

Your dentist may recommend dental crowns for:
•    Deep tooth cracks
•    Advanced tooth decay
•    Severe tooth wear
•    Restoration following root canal

Dentists tend to use dental veneers when patients have cosmetic tooth problems, but the tooth does not need to be protected or substantially restored. Your dentist may recommend porcelain veneers for:

•    Teeth stains
•    Minor to moderate wear
•    Small cracks and chips
•    Misshapen teeth
•    Uneven tooth length

A dentist often considers dental veneers first because they conserve the most tooth structure. When a dental crown is placed, the natural tooth must be reduced in order for the crown to fit over it. Although a veneer may be considered first, there are many situations in which a dental crown is necessary to protect and save a natural tooth.

The only way to know whether dental crowns or veneers will be more appropriate for your teeth is to speak to an experienced dentist.

To learn more about your dental options, please contact Dr. Michael P. Folck, DDS, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, to schedule a consultation with our dentist.

posted by Admin at 11:12 AM 1 comments

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