What is temporomandibular joint (TMJ)?

The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex joints in the body. Its main function is to allow the jaw to move up and down, side to side, and back to front. There are also small fragments of cartilage that behave like shock absorbers to protect the bones from any excessive wear and tear.

Symptoms

Some common symptoms of TMJ include:

• Pain experienced in either one or both jaw joints
• Pain while chewing
• Stiff muscles surrounding the jaw
• Change or shift in teeth alignment
• Earaches

If you hear a popping or clicking sound however, that is not a definite sign of TMJ. Unless it is accompanied with other symptoms, such as pain, it is not necessarily involved with TMJ. It is common in many people that the jaw produces a popping and clicking noise while opening the mouth. If you experience any of the following symptoms, consulting with our experienced professionals is the next step to providing you with relief.

Causes

There is no definite cause to this joint disorder, however, there are several factors that contribute to TMJ. Painful TMJ disorder can occur due to:

• Grinding of the teeth
• The cartilage moving out of place
• A previous trauma, injury, or dislocation to the jaw
• Arthritis, which causes damage to the cartilage in the joint
• Misalignment of the jaw or teeth

How Can We Help?

In some instances, TMJ symptoms may disappear on their own without the use of any treatment. However, if the symptoms continue to occur or worsen, we recommend a variety of TMJ treatment options and appliances to help reduce the pain here at Rockefeller Cosmetic Dentistry. To schedule an appointment, or for more information on our services for TMJ disorder, contact our office today.

If you experience an itching sensation inside of your mouth or notice any swelling of the gums prior to starting the Invisalign™ treatment, you may be experiencing an allergic reaction. Here is everything you need to know about allergic reactions to Invisalign™:

Can I Get An Allergic Reaction From Invisalign™?

Although it rarely happens, there are instances where people do have an allergic reaction to their Invisalign™ aligners. Allergic reactions occur in patients with a susceptibility for sensitivity to plastic. Since the allergic reactions to Invisalign™ aligners are uncommon, it is very unlikely that you will experience any complications with the Invisalign™ treatment process.

However, if you know you have an allergy to plastic, it is important to advice your dentist before moving forward with the process. An allergic reaction to Invisalign™ can cause mild or, in the rarest of cases, severe symptoms. Mild symptoms include an itching sensation on the gum line and other soft tissue of the mouth including the tongue, roof of the mouth, or inner cheeks. Severe symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Burning sensation in the mouth
• Swelling of the tongue and gums

If you are experiencing any type of symptoms, be sure to visit your dentist to discuss them and your options.

What Are The Triggers?

What triggers the allergic reactions to Invisalign™ is the plastic that is used to fabricate the aligners. Essentially, what occurs is the plastic in the mouth irritates the soft tissue and in turn,  affects the production of saliva. Insufficient amount of saliva in the mouth leads to an increased sensitivity of the soft tissues of the mouth, including the gums, tongue and inner cheeks.

How To Determine If You Have An Allergy To Invisalign™?

If you suspect you have an allergy to the Invisalign™ aligners, the first step is to contact your dentist to discuss the symptoms. Although removing the aligners will affect the progression of the treatment, it can help determine if you do or do not have an allergy to the plastic. If you remove the aligners and notice the symptoms are no longer present, this will confirm that you are allergic to the plastic material.

Another method to determine if you have an allergy is removing a part of the plastic from the aligner and place it on your arm. Utilize a piece of tape to keep the material in place for a few days to determine if any changes or reactions occur to the skin. Allergy testing is another effective method in determining an allergy to plastic.

How To Prevent Allergic Reactions From Occuring?

To minimize the symptoms of your Invisalign™ allergy, drink cold water frequently to keep your  mouth clean. This will also help replace the absence of saliva in your mouth. Another recommendation is visiting the dentist regularly. Dental cleanings every three months will help reduce any irritation and also help with the production of saliva.

Invisalign™ Treatment At Rockefeller Cosmetic Dentistry

Here at Rockefeller Cosmetic Dentistry we pride ourselves in perfecting smiles, and more importantly ensuring a comfortable and effective treatment. Our Invisalign™ alignment treatment  provides patients with a straighter smile, without the inconveniences of metal braces. If you have Invisalign™ and notice a difference in your gums or an irritation in your mouth, contact our office. Our specialists will evaluate the symptoms and determine the optimal solution.

To schedule your consultation or for more information about our Invisalign™ treatment, call (212) 581-1091.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically used to:

• Protect a weak tooth from breaking
• Restore a broken tooth or a severely worn down tooth
• Cover and support a tooth with a large filling
• Hold a dental bridge in place
• Cover misshapen or severely discolored teeth
• Cover a dental implant

Types of Dental Insurance Plans

Dental insurance plans vary in structure and coverage.

• HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Requires choosing a primary dentist within the network. Coverage is typically more affordable but limited to in-network providers, often with lower out-of-pocket costs for restorative procedures.

• PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): This plan offers more flexibility in choosing dentists. Both in-network and out-of-network services are covered, but higher benefits and lower costs apply to in-network providers.

• Indemnity Plans: Provide the most freedom in selecting any dentist. They reimburse a portion of the cost for restorative procedures, often requiring higher out-of-pocket payments and premiums.

Each plan type approaches restorative coverage differently, affecting your choice based on your needs and budget.

Coverage for Dental Crowns

Insurance coverage for dental crowns varies significantly across different plans, but general guidelines can help you understand what to expect. Most dental insurance plans typically partially cover crowns under major restorative services, which may account for 50% to 80% of the procedure’s cost. However, several factors influence this coverage.

• Medical Necessity: Insurance plans are more likely to cover crowns deemed medically necessary to restore tooth function, prevent further decay, or address significant structural damage. Cosmetic crowns, aimed at improving appearance rather than function, may not be covered or receive limited coverage.

• Type of CrownL The material and type of crown (e.g., porcelain, metal, ceramic) can also affect coverage. For example, due to cost differences and perceived durability, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns might be more readily covered than all-ceramic ones. Review your policy to understand which types are included.

• Plan Specifics: Each insurance plan has unique coverage details, including deductibles, copays, annual maximums, and waiting periods. Deductibles must be met before coverage begins; copays are the fixed amounts paid per visit. Annual maximums cap the total benefits payable in a year, influencing how much of the crown cost is covered. Additionally, some plans have waiting periods before major procedures like crowns are covered.

Understanding these factors helps you navigate your insurance benefits effectively, ensuring you receive the necessary care with minimized financial surprises.

Understanding Your Insurance Policy

Dental insurance coverage for crowns varies widely depending on the specific plan and provider. Generally, most insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of crowns, especially if they are deemed medically necessary rather than purely cosmetic. To fully understand your coverage, follow these steps:

• Review Your Policy: Obtain your policy document and check the coverage section for restorative services, where crowns typically fall.

• Key Terms to Look For:

• Deductible: The amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance covers expenses.

• Copay: A fixed amount you pay for a covered service.

• Annual Maximum: The maximum amount your insurance will pay in a year.

• Waiting Periods: The time you must wait before certain services are covered.

• Inclusions and Exclusions: Identify specific inclusions and exclusions. Some plans only cover certain types of crowns or exclude cosmetic ones.

• Pre-authorization: Many insurers require pre-authorization for crowns. Ensure you complete this process to avoid unexpected costs.

Navigate Your Coverage With Ease

To maximize your benefits:

• Review Your Plan: Understand your coverage specifics.

• Consult Our Office: Our staff can help determine coverage and estimate out-of-pocket costs.

• Pre-authorization: Work with us to get the necessary pre-authorization.

Pre-Authorization and Documentation

Pre-authorization is crucial for dental crown procedures. It ensures your insurance provider agrees to cover the treatment before it begins, preventing unexpected costs. To secure pre-authorization, you must submit a detailed treatment plan from your dentist, including X-rays and a justification for the crown’s necessity. This documentation demonstrates the medical need for the procedure, increasing the likelihood of approval.

It is also essential to maintain clear communication with your dentist and insurance provider throughout the process. At Rockefeller Cosmetic Dentistry, we assist our patients with pre-authorization, ensuring all necessary steps and documentation are completed for seamless coverage.

Ensuring a Smooth Path to a Healthy Smile at Rockefeller Cosmetic Dentistry!

At Rockefeller Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that navigating dental insurance coverage for crowns can be complex. We are committed to providing exceptional care and support, helping you understand and maximize your insurance benefits. Contact us today at (212) 581-1091 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how your insurance plan can help cover the cost of dental crowns. We are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth path to a healthy smile.