Dr. Twomey, DDS, MS

Specialized Dentistry. Personalized Care.

952.960.2555
6600 France Avenue South, Suite 475 • Edina, MN 55435
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Restoration: Decay and Recurrent Decay

August 16, 2019 By Dr. Twomey

Dental fillings or restorations are one of the most common dental procedures performed.  Children and adults are susceptible to cavities and unfortunately, it is not something that lessens with age. Despite the commonality of dental cavities, it can still be unpleasant news to hear as a patient. Several questions we are often asked: how can I have two cavities on the same tooth, what about crowns, how can I have fillings at my age, and how long do they last?

Multiple fillings on the same tooth

Each tooth has two sides of contact and each tooth, typically, has five surface areas. If there is decay on both sides of the tooth or at the two different contact points, the tooth would need two separate restorations.  In this scenario, two restorations would help to preserve the strength and integrity of the tooth.  For dental fillings, we try to remove as little tooth structure as possible while removing the decay and adding composite (tooth colored) or amalgam (silver) filling. One year, you may need a filling on one surface of the tooth and much later, a different surface may need to be treated.

Decay and Crowns

Larger amounts of decay often require larger fillings. The larger the filling – the more tooth structure is required to be removed. It is often then recommended to have a crown placed rather than a filling. A crown will protect the strength of the tooth when a filling will not suffice. While we hope a crown will last a number of years, decay can occur underneath a crown. Decay, under a crown, is almost impossible to see and access unless the crown is removed. We can make an attempt to fill a cavity at the crown; however, it is often necessary to completely remove the crown if decay is suspected. Unfortunately, we are unable to remove the crown without destroying it.

Decay and age

As we age, we often require more medications to treat a multitude of conditions which becomes a contributing factor in increased tooth decay. While we are making great advancements in medicine, an unfortunate side effect is often dry mouth which means your mouth is not producing enough saliva. Saliva is your natural defense against decay. It also balances your mouth’s pH and washes away plaque and bacteria that may accumulate in the mouth. However, there are many internal and external factors that can contribute to decay as we age which will ultimately affect our ability to floss and brush.

Recurring decay

While we hope a restoration will last many years, we cannot say specifically how long restoration will last. Often times, a person can have recurring decay, and they may need a replacement filling. In time, fillings can break down. We refer to this as “leaking” which will happen before you have a toothache. This evidence is visible and shows around the filling itself, which often starts at the very edge of the filling. This is why it is extremely important to have the necessary x-rays, dental cleanings, and exams. The hygienist and the doctor will often see it before you feel it.

Even though our specialty is prosthodontics, we also provide patients with routine dental care. We would love to help you set up your next hygiene appointment. Please call our office at 952-920-5300.

Filed Under: blog, Dental Procedures, Prosthondontist Tagged With: crowns, decay, fillings, recurring decay, restoration

Traditional Dentures vs. Implant Supported Dentures

June 13, 2019 By Dr. Twomey

Traditional dentures are worn by millions across the world. It is a great option for those who have lost all their teeth or no longer have any healthy teeth left. Even though we take many steps to ensure a proper fit, traditional dentures have their limitations.  Due to gravity and the nature of the device, dentures can become loose while chewing or talking. Dentures have limited functionality, which can affect your food choices and create awkward social situations. However, with the use of implant supported dentures using implant technology; we are able to create implant overdentures and fixed implant dentures. It is a terrific solution to many of the common issues with traditional dentures.

An implant overdenture can be created for both top and bottom arches of the mouth. It is a removable denture like the traditional denture; however, with the aid of implants, it snaps in to place to assist in retention and stability. The implant snaps act as a securing device to help increase comfort, create a better fit, allow for more chewing efficiency, and increase confidence in your smile.  The implant overdenture is still easily removable at home for sleeping and cleaning.

Implant Supported Dentures

An implant supported denture can be created for both top and bottom arches of the mouth. It is a removable denture like the traditional denture; however, with the aid of implants, it snaps in to place. This greatly improves the retention and stability of the denture. The implant snaps act as a securing device to help increase comfort, create a better fit, allow for more chewing efficiency, and increase confidence in your smile. 

The implant supported denture is still easily removable at home for sleeping and cleaning. It is a convenient and easily manageable option.

Fixed Implant Dentures

Lastly, there is also a more permanent implant denture solution.  A fixed implant denture utilizes 4 to 6 implants to secure the denture in place, and it can be created for both top and bottom arches of the mouth. It is held in place by implant screws and can only be removed in a dental office for cleaning and maintenance. A fixed implant denture is the most similar to having your natural teeth and the most fitted denture option.

The implant denture process can seem daunting, but is worth the long-term investment. Please contact our office to assist you in creating your new patient appointment. We take pride in helping you understand the process and creating your best smile.

Lastly, there is also a more permanent implant denture solution.  A fixed-detachable denture utilizes 4 to 6 implants to secure the denture in place, and it can be created for both top and bottom arches of the mouth. It is held in place by implant screws and can only be removed in a dental office for cleaning and maintenance. A fixed detachable denture is the most similar to having your natural teeth.

The implant denture process can seem daunting but is worth the long-term investment. Please contact our office to assist you in creating your new patient appointment. We take pride in helping you understand the process and creating your best smile.

Filed Under: blog, Dental Procedures, Prosthondontist Tagged With: cosmetic, dentures, implants, solutions

6 reasons why dental implants in Minneapolis are a good option

March 4, 2019 By Dr. Twomey

Not happy with the shape, look, or color of your teeth? Missing teeth? If you are considering dental implants in Minneapolis, Dr. Twomey is an excellent choice.

In this blog post, we are going to discuss 6 reasons you should consider us as a top choice for dental implants in Minneapolis and Edina, MN.

1. Close to Downtown Minneapolis

We’re located just 15 minutes from the heart of Minneapolis. You can get to our office in Edina, MN quickly by car. We have plenty of parking and generally very little traffic.

Set up an appointment now

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2. Durable design

Dental implants are one of the most durable options available for tooth reparation and restoration. They are not designed to come out like dentures are, so there is no risk of them ever slipping.

Dental implants can last 25-40 years. The other options for dental restoration last a much shorter span of time.

3. Affordable price tag over time

Dental implants have the highest upfront cost of the dental restoration options. When you factor in the length of time they last, though, and break it down over a longer span of time, they are actually the cheapest.

By the time you ever need a dental implant to be replaced, you would have had to change a bridge several times. The teeth that support the bridge could also need dental work due to their support of the problem-tooth.

4. High success rate

The five-year success rate with dental implants is about 95% for the lower jaw and 90% for the upper jaw. If you follow all instructions you receive to go along with your implants to improve their lifespan, your changes are even higher.

Dr. Twomey is a prosthodontist who specializes in all types of cosmetic dentistry and specializes in creating and shaping the crown or tooth replacement above the gum, which sits on top of the implant as well as many other cosmetic dental procedures and products.

5. Adaptable design

Any tooth of any size can be replaced with a custom fitted and shaped dental implant. There are no challenges for teeth that are closer together like you would find with bridges. After an oral surgeon places the implant in your gum, you come back to us and we simply custom fit the crown or tooth replacement to be exactly the size and shape of (the healthy version of) the tooth being replaced.

6. Independent from other teeth

A dental implant is not connected to anything. It is one post placed directly into the jaw by an oral surgeon. Once we determine a dental implant is the best course of action for your specific tooth restoration need, we will refer you to one of the highly trained oral surgeons that we work closely with in order to place the actual post in your gums.

Once the post has been implanted and some time has past to fully heal, you come back for the placement of your crown that acts and appears just like a normal tooth. Other options, like bridges, rely on other teeth as a support. This can cause the need for additional work over time when the teeth being used as supports start to become unhealthy.

Schedule a new patient exam to see if Dental Implants are the right choice to improve your smile.

Filed Under: blog, Dental Procedures, Prosthondontist Tagged With: dental implants, dental procedures, implants

What is the difference between a Prosthodontist and a General Dentist?

December 20, 2018 By Dr. Twomey

A Prosthodontist is a dental specialist able to diagnose, plan treatments, rehabilitate, and maintain oral functionality, comfort, cosmetic appearance, and health of the teeth in patients who experience missing or deficient teeth health and other oral issues.

How is a prosthodonsits different from any other dentist or dental specialist?

A prosthodontist is an official expert when it comes to replacing the teeth. This can happen for one tooth, many, or all of the teeth and gums. This kind of specialist is needed for cosmetic as well as health reasons. When you are looking to improve the way your teeth look, you should consider talking to one.

Many people have coined prosthodontics “cosmetic dentistry,” for this reason.

Prosthodontists differ from dentists with functionality training to restore and replace the teeth.

Advanced dental care.

Why choose a prosthodontist?

You would choose a prosthodontist for their advanced education and specializations that included additional training and expertise with advanced technology and equipment meant specifically for restoring the appearance of the teeth. Every prosthodontist is trained in techniques and procedures that general dentists typically are not. Procedures are meant to treat complex conditions affecting the teeth and restoring their health while keeping aesthetics in mind.

Prosthodontists have a deep understanding of what makes a smile look healthy and how you can better preserve a healthy mouth and smile.

Additional Education for Prosthodontists

Once you earn a bachelors degree in science, you are required to complete dental school as well as a 3-year residency program focused in prosthodontics.

Once you obtain your certification, you’re required to stay up to date on news and developments in the field. There is a required re-certification once every 8 years.

If you are concerned with a mouth condition that is affecting the appearance of your teeth or gums, get in touch with Dr. Twomey today. A quick consultation is all you need to understand the possibilities you have for seeing a better smile and loving the way you look.

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Filed Under: blog, Prosthondontist Tagged With: cosmetic dentistry, cosmetics, dentistry, prosthodontist

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    Prosthodontist Dr. Jonathan O. Twomey

    Prosthodontist Dr. Jonathan O. TwomeyDr. Jonathan O. Twomey brings a wealth of advanced dental care and a premier education to solving your dental issues, creating a memorable smile, and ensuring the vitality of your teeth. Learn more >>

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    Phone: (952) 960-2555
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    6600 France Avenue South
    Suite 475
    Edina, MN 55435


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