Faq

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT:

Dental CT

Teeth whitening

Bleeding gums

Dental implants

Hyaluronic acid

DENTAL CT

Q: Why is Dental CT better than regular medical CT?
It has a plenty good sides but most important is sophisticated digital dental 3D x-ray system which significantly decreases amount of radiation. It enables making accurate diagnoses faster with a more precise treatment plan thus offering better health care to patients.

Q: Is it harmful for health?
No, not at all. For example, during the ordinary medical CT patients are exposed to radiation from 1200 – 3300 μSv. With Pax Duo 3D these amount of radiation is reduced significantly and is from 25 - 60 μSv according to research conducted by dr. Stuart White from Department of Radiology, University of Mitchigan. This is the same radiation as commercial flight from Europe to SAD, or 6 days on the sun. Daily background on which we are exposed to is about 8 μSv, so we can say that this is a Revolutionary product in medicine.

Q: Although it is very reliable, but what is possibility of errors?
Using these 3D pictures possibility of errors is decreased significantly. These pictures reveals all, it s like we have got the third eye. It helps even after canal filling because it measures every detail in patients jaw, and has precision of 0.25mm in three dimension, this size is invisible to human eye, but is  very important to our doctors.

Q: Does it help in edodontics?
Yes, a lot, because with these three-dimensional images we can measure channel length, and after that we can check efficacy of root canal therapy. Now we have a wide range of new diagnostic possibilities in endodontics and also implantology. Today is impossible to work without this technology if you want to be successful in work and we are very pleased that can work in such conditions.

Q: How patients react?
Patients are delighted because all work can do in our premise and in this way save a lot of their precious time. They get their images saved on CD, after that they can send it on e-mail or save it on their computer, DVD etc. This function provides them with sufficient information and helps us to have much better communication with the patient before and during the treatment.

Q: How do dental X-rays work?
When X-rays pass through your mouth during a dental exam, more X-rays are absorbed by the denser parts (such as teeth and bone) than by soft tissues (such as cheeks and gums) before striking the film. This creates an image called a radiograph. Teeth appear lighter because fewer X-rays penetrate to reach the film. Tooth decay, infections and signs of gum disease, including changes in the bone and ligaments holding teeth in place, appear darker because of more X-ray penetration. Dental restorations (fillings, crowns) may appear lighter or darker, depending on the type of material used for the restoration. The interpretation of these radiographs allows the dentist to safely and accurately detect hidden abnormalities.

Q: How often should radiographs be taken?
How often X-rays (radiographs) should be taken depends on the patient's individual health needs. It is important to recognize that just as each patient is different form the next, so should the scheduling of X-ray exams be individualized for each patient. Your dentist will review your history, examine your mouth and then decide whether you need radiographs and what type. If you are a new patient, the dentist may recommend radiographs to determine the present status of the hidden areas of your mouth and to help analyze changes that may occur later. If you have had recent radiographs at your previous dentist, your new dentist may ask you to have the radiographs forwarded.

The schedule for needing radiographs at recall visits varies according to your age, risk for disease and signs and symptoms. Recent films may be needed to detect new cavities, or to determine the status of gum disease or for evaluation of growth and development. Children may need X-rays more often than adults. This is because their teeth and jaws are still developing and because their teeth are more likely to be affected by tooth decay than those of adults.

Q: What are the benefits of a dental radiograph examination?
Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when your dentist examines your mouth. An X-ray examination may reveal:

• small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings);
• infections in the bone;
• periodontal (gum) disease;
• abscesses or cysts;
• developmental abnormalities;
• some types of tumors.

Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money and unnecessary discomfort. It can detect damage to oral structures not visible during a regular exam. If you have a hidden tumor, radiographs may even help save your life.

Q: How do dental X-rays compare to other sources of radiation?
We are exposed to radiation every day from various sources, such as frequent airplane travel and high altitudes, minerals in the soil, and appliances in our homes (like smoke detectors and television screens).

Source: Adapted from Frederiksen NL. X-Rays: What is the Risk? Texas Dental Journal. 1995;112(2):68-72.

*A millisievert (mSV) is a unit of measure that allows for some comparison between radiation sources that expose the entire body (such as natural background radiation) and those that only expose a portion of the body (such as radiographs).

Q: What if I'm pregnant and need a dental radiograph examination?
A radiograph may be needed for dental treatment or a dental emergency that can't wait until after the baby is born. Untreated dental infections can pose a risk to the fetus, and dental treatment may be necessary to maintain the health of the mother and child. Radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low. However, every precaution is taken to minimize radiation exposure. A leaded apron minimizes exposure to the abdomen and should be used when any dental radiograph is taken. A leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from radiation, and should be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid collar is strongly recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children. Dental radiographs are not contraindicated if one is trying to become pregnant or is breast feeding.

TEETH WHITENING

Q: What do you recommend as instant smile improvement?
Teeth whitening or bleaching has become the optimum way to brighten and whiten the teeth and make the smile look great. This makes you appear younger as the teeth look more healthy and vibrant.

Q: What`s the difference between whitening and bleaching?
The term “bleaching” is used only when the teeth can be whitened beyond their natural colour. This applies strictly to products that contain bleach – typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
The term “whitening” refers to restoring a tooth's surface colour by removing dirt and debris. So, any product that cleans (like a toothpaste) is considered a whitener. The term whitening is more frequently used even when describing products that contain bleach.

Q: How teeth whitening works?
In our dental practice we use teeth whitening methods performed with bleaching gel and laser light. A laser is used in conjunction with the gel to accelerate and amplify the tooth whitening process. Bleaching or whitening is generally an oxidation process. Peroxide teeth whitener gel activates a free oxygen molecule and reacts with the large molecules of dental stains. This reaction produces a smaller lighter molecules which cause the teeth to become whiter than before.
The teeth whitening process can be repeated 2 or 3 times and the teeth can be lightened up to 4 shades.

Q: What causes dental stains?
Usually teeth are white when they erupt but prolonged contact with staining food and drinks (coffee, tea, smoking and wine) without regular brushing will give the opportunity of the stains to accumulate deep inside the teeth and become harder to remove.
The less obvious things include pasta sauces, fruit juices and spices like curries. The staining components will get blocked in the ducts and will slowly change the colour. Just listed foods must be avoided at least 14 days after the teeth whitening treatment due to the porosity of the teeth. In this period teeth increasingly receive pigments from food and drinks.

Q: Is bleaching safe and does it damage the tooth?
Teeth whitening treatments are considered to be safe when procedures are followed as directed. However, there are certain risks associated with bleaching that you should be aware of. Such as sensitivity (to temperature, pressure and touch) and gum irritation (it lasts up to several days). Increased tooth sensitivity occurs due to porosity of teeth during the teeth whitening process. The teeth are susceptible to mild dehydration resulting sensitivity. Dehydration is normal and temporary appearance that lasts up to 14 days.

Q: How to treat teeth sensitivity after teeth whitening process?
It`s very easy.  You should use toothpaste and mouthwash with a higher fluoride concentration, e.g. toothpaste associated with organic fluorine as aminfluoride considered a hundred times more effective than sodium fluoride. Market products can be found as Elmex, Curasept, Sensodyne etc.

Q: How long do bleached teeth retain their lighter color and what should we do to maintain the results for a longer period?
It depends on the person, but I hope that it should last at least 2-3 years before it needs to be redone. To maintain the results for a longer period patients have to brush and floss their teeth regularly and avoid staining food and tobacco. Also, if you eat or drink something that will stain your teeth you have to brush just after eating not to give the stains the chance to penetrate deep in your teeth. Regular visit to your dentist every 6 months will improve your dental care and keep your smile shinny and bright.

BLEEDING GUMS

Q: What are bleeding gums?
Bleeding gums or gingivitis is the inflammation, swelling and bleeding of gum tissue.

Q: Signs of bleeding gums
The first sign of gingivitis is bleeding of the gums when brushing your teeth. Other symptoms may include: red, swollen or tender gums, receding gums, persistent bad taste or bad breath in the mouth, loose or shifting teeth, teeth that bleed during and after the tooth brushing, formation if deep pockets between teeth and gums, changes in the way teeth fit together on biting, or in teh fit of partial dentures.

Q: What are the causes for bleeding gums?
The primary cause of bleeding gums is the bacteria that coats your teeth, and if oral hygiene is poor, it forms a white sticky substance called plaque. The bacteria in the plaque proliferates faster and produces toxins that irritates your gums, keeping them swollen and red.

Q: Dangers of bleeding gums
When gingivitis progresses, it develops into periodontitis, a condition in which not only the gums but also the bone that holds the teeth in place is severely inflamed and compromised. Periodontitis is an irreversible form of gum disease that eventually leads to teeth loss.

Q: How to prevent bleeding gums
1. Brush your teeth affter every meal or at least twice each day. Whether you opt for a manual or electric tooth brush, choose one with soft nylon bristles that have blunted ends. Even though you can find  brushes with medium or hard bristles, they may damage the enamel or cause  red and swollen gums.
When you brush, angle the toothbrush to 45 degrees and use gentle, circular motions to clean the teeth and massage the gums. A back-and-forth motion can irritate and damage your gums making them sore and more likely to bleed or recede.
2. Floss daily. It doesn’t take  more then few minutes, but flossing may be the most important thing you can do to prevent gum problems, because it reaches areas that you can not reach with the toothbrush. Be gentle when you floss. Slide it up and down  carefully following the curve of each tooth. Floss it available in string or ribbon form, and can be lightly waxed , waxed, or un-waxed. It is also available in several flavours such as cinnamon, mint bubble-gum and plain. Ribbon floss is the most effective choice where there are ample spaces between teeth  like in children. On the other hand, when teeth have contact points, that is, when they come in contact with another, the prefered choice  is the narrower or string floss.  Waxed or lightly waxed is recommended for use between crowded or crooked teeth.
3. Eat a well-balanced diet. A diet including plenty of vitamin C and calcium may minimize the likelihood of having gum problems.
4. Drink plenty of water. Drinking water after eating can help wash off your teeth and make it less likely bacteria will form plaque.
5. Dont smoke. Using cigarettes and other tobacco products can be extremely damaging to your gums. Your smoking habit can cause sensitivity, bleeding and painfull sores. People who smoke are far more likely  to develop gum deseases.
6. Be cautious about extremely hot or cold food and beverages. When you have gum problems you will be more comfortable consuming  lukewarm  or cool food and beverages.
7. Relax. Being stressed out raises levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) increasing the likelihood of inflammation.

Q:  Is bleeding of the gum a serious problem?
Yes, bleeding gums is a serious problem. It is either indicating the beginning of the destructive process involving the supporting tissue around the tooth or some underlying systemic problems ( for example: hormonal disbalance – puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause, chemotherapy and mouth ulcers).

Q: How are bleeding gums treated?
The treatment of bleeding gums vary based upon the underlying cause. Regardless of the cause, good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist (every 3-6 months) are fundamental. Mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine effectively reduce bacteria present in the mouth to harmless  levels thus reduce plaque and help in treating gingivitis.
More tips and home remedies for bleeding gums:
*dissolve a pinch of salt in a glass of lukewarm water and rinse your mouth twice a day, in the morning and in the evening
*add 2-3 drops of tree oil to your toothpaste
*eat fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C
*drink green tea to keep your mouth fresh
*rinse your mouth with sage tea

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Q:Is there a minimum age for dental implants?
Bone growth should be completed at the time of implant placement. It can be assumed that this is complete by about the age of 18 years. Girls generally finish growing earlier than boys. In case of doubt the state of the bone can be checked by an x-ray examination of the carpal bones.

Q: Is implant placement contraindicated at an advanced age?
It is never too late to improve your quality of life with implants. The treatment is so low-risk that implants can be placed in patients aged 70, 80 or even 90 years. There is no upper age limit. If you are fit for any other routine dental treatment and you are in good health, you can also have implants.

Q: Will metal detectors beep at my implant, such as at an airport check?
No, don't worry about it. Implants are not magnetic and they are also much too small to trigger the detector. And if the detector ever does beep at your implants, you will have your implant pass that will explain the problem quickly and easily.

Q: Is it possible to be allergic to dental implants?
Dental implants have been available for more than 40 years. Over this long period no allergies to titanium implants have become known. Titanium has no allergenic components and is completely neutral in the body. Of the materials used for crowns and bridges ceramic has proven the most compatibility to the body. The allergy risks vary for metals and plastics. Let your dentist advise you what material is best for you.

Q: Is a general anesthetic really not necessary for implant placement?
No. Local anesthetic can completely prevent any pain. When the dentist prepares the implant site in the bone and place the implant in, you will feel vibration and a slight pressure but no pain. For most patients the procedure feels like a normal treatment for caries, which is also conducted under local anesthetic. However, if you still want to „sleep" during the treatment the dentist can explain the implications of general anesthetic.

Q: I only need a couple of implants, but I would also like all my teeth to be whiter or more attractive. What can the dentist do here?
The dentist can frequently bleach darker-colored teeth. Unattractive front teeth can be coated with plastic or fi ne ceramic, referred to as veneers. The crowns for the implants will be brighter from the start or the new tooth shape will be modifi ed accordingly. Ask your dentist. The dentist can offer a solution for almost every problem.

Q: When is bone grafting necessary?
If the jaw has no teeth and is not subject to the associated natural chewing load over a long period, the bone gradually atrophies. This is a similar process to that of a muscle that atrophies because it is no longer used. Certain bacteria can also destroy the bone. This is referred to as periodontitis - otherwise known as periodontosis -, an inflammatory disease of the periodontium. If the bone is weakened or thin and an implant cannot be placed in it, the dentist will recommend bone grafting. The bone tissue is restored with autologous bone or bone replacement material as atraumatically as possible. A mixture of both autogenous bone and bone replacement material is often used. The grafting material is layered directly on the bone and gradually converted by the body to strong bone substance. The bone can be widened or lifted by this method. At the back of the upper jaw the bone is generally raised by a sinus lift procedure. This prevents part of the implant from extending into the maxillary sinus. Bone grafting can often be done during implant placement. However, in other cases a separate outpatient procedure may also be required.

Q: Could implants affect my cardiac pacemaker?
No. Implants have no electromagnetic effect. They cannot affect the operation of your pacemaker in any way.

Q: What material is used for crowns?
Most crowns and bridges are metal or metal alloys and are veneered with ceramic in a color to match the natural tooth. The highquality esthetic alternative is porcelain. Zirconium oxide ceramic with its high strength is particularly suitable for implant-borne dentures. It is suitable for single tooth crowns, and also for larger bridges and it refl ects the light identically to the natural tooth enamel. This means that the denture is virtually identical to the natural teeth.

Q: How can I prepare for the consultation?
You should be thoroughly informed before the consultation. This brochure contains all the important basic information that you should know. You should also take advantage of the consultation to ask any questions that you might have. Make a list of questions beforehand so you don't forget any. Don't forget to inform the dentist of any other diseases and medications that you take regularly. You should also bring a note to remind you of this.

Q: Is the implant placement really a day-surgery procedure?
Yes. The implant dentist works atraumatically and safely so multiple implants can generally be placed without problems in an outpatient procedure in one single session.

Q:How do I care for my implantborne teeth?
Implant-borne teeth not only look like natural teeth. They can be cleaned just as easily with a toothbrush - including an electric toothbrush - and tooth paste. When cleaning implants the spaces between the teeth and the transitions to the gums are particularly important. These areas are colonized by bacteria that attack the gum and over time they can also attack the jawbone around the implant. This can be prevented with dental floss or small interdental brushes. The prophylaxis team at your dentist will show you how to handle the instruments and will provide professional tooth cleaning at regular intervals - such as every three months. This will remove stubborn plaque and your teeth will look as good as new. You should make regular prophylaxis appointments with your dentist. It's worth it.

Q: If I am a diabetic can I still have an implant?
Yes. However, your diabetes must be well controlled. Diabetes that is poorly controlled or untreated may adversely affect the healing processes for metabolic reasons. If there is any doubt the dentist will consult your doctor.

Q: Are there any diseases that would prevent implant placement?
Not really. If you have a serious general disease such as a cardiovascular disease, serious kidney damage, a tendency to hemorrhage or an impaired immune system, you should always inform the dentist. In some cases side effects of medications may affect the healing process, so the dentist should be informed of any medications that you take regularly at the first consultation. The dentist will advise you of the options and assist you to make your own decision on the basis of your health profile.

Q: How long does an implant last?
After the healing phase a correctly inserted quality implant will be more resistant to many infl uences that the natural root of the tooth. A titanium implant with the optimum prosthetic load will not break. And it is immune to caries. Consistent oral hygiene will keep your gums and the implant site healthy. With appropriate care implants can last a lifetime.

Q: Can I bite and eat normally with an implant-borne denture ?
Regardless of whether you have an implant-borne crown, bridge or denture: you will be able to eat, bite, talk and laugh just you could formerly with your second set of teeth. The denture will be firmly attached to your implants and you can feel quite secure with it.

Q: Will implant-borne teeth feel like my own or will I feel as if I have a foreign body in my mouth?
Implant-borne teeth will feel quite natural when you are talking, eating and laughing. You won't feel any difference.

Q: Can implants be placed immediately after removing teeth?
Yes, this is often possible today. The implant is placed in the fresh wound immediately after removal of a tooth. This is referred to as immediate implant placement (not to be confused with immediate loading of implants).

Q: What exactly does „immediate loading" mean and does it apply to me?
The usual plan for implant-borne teeth includes an healing phase with no loading on the implants after they have been inserted. In this procedure the gap is temporarily closed with a classical temporary denture, which is normally attached to the neighboring teeth. However, in immediate loading new implant systems and methods are used that under specific conditions allow the denture or the temporary denture to be attached to the implants immediately. Patients receive their implant and have fixed, naturallooking teeth on the same day. Whether immediate loading is suitable for you will depend on the state of the jawbone and the position of the implants. Ask your dentist about the options.
See also under "Treatment duration"

Q: What are implants made of?
FRIADENT implants are pure surgical-grade titanium. The material has proven to be so good that now 99 percent of all dental implant systems are made of pure titanium. It is extremely stable and is very compatible to the body. Titanium also becomes firmly integrated into the bone tissue. These positive properties have been confi rmed not only in implant dentistry but also in many other medical areas, such prosthetic joints, for many decades. The silvery-gray color of titanium is also not a disadvantage, because implants - like natural tooth roots - are completely buried in the jawbone and are invisible. White implants of ceramic have also been available for some years. The first generations of aluminum oxide ceramic were not strong enough to present serious competition for titanium. Current ceramic implants are now made of extremely stable zirconium oxide ceramic and are still in the testing phase. Titanium is still the gold standard of implant materials.

Q: Are there any interactions with medications?
This is possible with certain medications. For example, cortisone can change the metabolism and immune system of the body in such a way that problems with healing may be encountered. Anticoagulation medications may cause serious hemorrhages during implant placement. If you are required to take medications regularly, you must discuss them with your dentist.

Q: Will I have to remove an implantborne denture at night?
A conventional denture should be removed at night, because it may come adrift during sleep and may block the pharynx or the respiratory passage. An implantborne denture is normally fixed in place and can be left in place at night without danger. Your dentist will advise you about this. You only have to ask.

Q: Will I be in pain after the procedure?
The gum will probably be sensitive in the first few days after the procedure but will not bleed any more. Your cheek may swell for a short time and may feel uncomfortable. However, most patients will not even need a painkiller on the following day and can return to normal life.

Q: Are there difference in quality among implants?
Like virtually any product there are very high-quality implants and lower-quality models. For example, there are differences in the shape of implants, particularly with the surface. The surface of an implant can be modified to improve the principally tissuecompatible material properties of titanium, but they can also be reduced. Always have your dentist inform you about the characteristics of the implant that is to be used. Ask about long-term experience. Also ask about the longterm availability of replacement components in case your denture ever has to be renewed in the future.

Q: Are there any risks involved with implant placement?
An implant placement is a minor surgical procedure. Complications such as injuries to nerves and blood vessels during placement of implants are certainly possible. This is extremely unlikely these days with the advances in diagnostics and planning. When an implant is placed by a qualified dentist, the risks are no greater than when removing a wisdom tooth.
A sudden rejection reaction of a fully healed implant is also very unlikely. However, in rare cases the bone may not hold the implant firmly enough. In this case it cannot be resist loading sufficiently and will most probably have to be removed under local anesthetic. In most cases a new implant can be placed in the same session if you wish.

Q: And if an implant becomes infected?
When detected early enough infections caused by bacteria can usually be treated successfully. If you attend regular appointments for dental care and prophylaxis at your dentist and also clean your teeth regularly at home, you are unlikely to be affected.

Q: Can implant-borne dentures be replaced or, if more teeth are lost, extended?
Yes, the denture can be replaced or modified at any time. A FRIADENT single-tooth implant can be converted into an abutment for a bridge or prosthesis without difficulty, even after many years.

Q: I already have a normal full denture. Do I need a new one for attachment to the implants?
If the existing denture will guarantee optimum load of the implants and good chewing function, it can certainly be adjusted for fixing to implants. Ask your dentist. The dentist can assess your individual situation and will recommend the best solution for you.

Q: What happens if one of my own teeth that is integrated into the denture as an abutment is lost?
If a tooth has to be removed, for example because of a root inflammation, it can generally be replaced by an additional implant without difficulty. The support and possibly also the denture will be modified accordingly.
See "Bone grafting"

Q: Are dental implants advisable for smokers?
The long-term success rate of implants can be endangered by smoking. Discuss it with your dentist. He can assess the risks in your case.
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Q: When and how are the teeth placed on the implant?
In a normal healing process the implants will be fully integrated into the bone in the upper jaw after about six months and in the lower jaw after about three months. Your new crowns can now be fi rmly fixed in place. The dentist uncovers the "head" of the implant and temporarily screws on a small cap, called coping, to shape the gum correctly. An impression is taken at this stage. The dental technician uses the impression as the basis for the fabrication of your denture. After the colors have been precisely matched and a test fit the denture is securely attached to the implants.

Q: Will I be without teeth during treatment and the healing phase?
No. If you had a removable denture before treatment, it will generally only require a minor adjustment to allow you to continue to use it. If you did not have a removable denture beforehand, the gap can still be covered with a temporary denture. In some circumstances it can sometimes be fixed to the implants immediately. In the case of such long-term temporary dentures there are very sophisticated solutions that are virtually indistinguishable from the final crowns and your natural teeth.

Q: How many appointments will be required for my new tooth roots?
This depends on the scope and type of treatment. One session is usually enough for the consultation at which the dentist will be able to answer your questions. The next appointment will be for the preliminary examinations and planning. The new tooth roots can generally be inserted in the jaw bone a short time later in one treatment session. In this procedure the dentist makes a small incision in the gum at the implant position, which is then sutured over the implant after insertion of the implant. The wound is checked to ensure that it is healing properly one or two days after implant placement. After about ten days the sutures are removed. Now you can wait for the bone to regenerate during the healing phase without any more treatment sessions.

Q:When can I go back to work gain?
Your dentist will probably give you a certifi cate for a few days off work. However, you will usually be able to live normally the day after the operation and go back to work a few days later.

Q: Is there anything else I need to worry about?
In brief: no. Think of your implants as a natural part of your body. You can exercise, talk, eat and laugh.

HYALURONIC FILLERS

Q: What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a natural occurring sugar molecule found in every single organic living thing. Its main purpose in the human body is to act as a network that transfers essential nutrients from the bloodstream to skin cells. It is most present in fluids around the eye area and in the joints. Aside from those applications in cosmetology it is also often injected into joints to relieve rheumatism and other kinds of joint pain.

In its purest essence, hyaluronic acid is a clear liquid gel like substance that sits between the skin and connective tissues supporting the skin. When injected, it acts like an inflated cushion to support facial structures and tissues may have lost volume and elasticity due to aging and other causes.

Q: What is hyaluronic acid therapy?
Hyaluronic acid therapy is a non surgical cosmetic technique that is used for facial augmentation. The therapy involves injections in the face to mask/remove facial flaws. It is administrated through a needle and bears the important distinction of being a substance that is very well tolerated by the human body. This means that you don’t have to be tested for an allergic reaction before being injected with it.

Q: How is the treatment administrated?
Depending on how many problems are being treated takes between fifteen minute to an hour during which the practitioner will inject the substance into the area to be treated, using a prefilled, entirely sterile syringe.

Q: It is painful?
The procedure itself is very non invasive and does not require anything but a topical anesthetic administrated to the site of injection. The needles used for this procedure are very thin and tiny. It is an out patient procedure and people return to their normal activities the same day.

Q: When can I ask my practitioner to perform a treatment using hyaluronic acid fillers?
As soon as you see that the wrinkles, folds or the indentations on your face start to become too visible or as soon as you think that you need to enhance your natural beauty it is time to consult your practitioner about hyaluronic fillers.

Q: How long will it be before I am able to see the result? And how long do they last?
You can immediately see the difference on the areas that were treated. Increase of lip volume, enhancement of your lips contour, disappearance of wrinkles, filling of deep folds or depressions … in about 30 minutes you gain 10 years.

The treatment results usually last from between 9 – 12 months depending on your life style, body chemistry and the rate at which you are naturally aging. It is important to realize that this is a temporary solution and not a permanent cure for facial problems. To maintain their youthful appearance most people have hyaluronic injections twice a year.

Q: What kind of treatment can hyaluronic acid fillers be used for?
Hyaluronic acid has many applications and here is a short list of just few of the problems that an injection of this biocompatible substance can correct:

• frown lines between the eyebrows
• vertical lines above the upper lip that may have been caused by smoking
• marionette lines that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth
• worry lines that look like seams running across the forehead
• skin depressions in the jaw or cheeks
• redefining the border of the lip by eliminating lip feathering
• scars including burns, acne and those caused by wounds

Q: Exactly where the hyaluronic acid is injected?
Everyone`s skin naturally contains hyaluronic acid. It is found in the reticular layer of the skin or the deepest layer of the dermis (the dermis is located under the epidermis or the top layer of our skin). The reticular layer contains collagen and elastin, and hyaluronic acid is found between these fibers helping to give your skin its volume and snap. Babies skin is full of hyaluronic acid which explains why a baby has such soft and moist skin. As we age the amount of hyaluronic acid in our skin diminishes; we simply produce less of it.  Don’t forget – applying hyaluronic acid topically will not replace what your skin has lost as it ages.  When applied topically hyaluronic acid simply acts as a great moisturizing agent – nothing more.  Only hyaluronic acid fillers can temporarily replace what has been lost as you age.

Q: Post procedure recommendation
Immediately after the procedure you have to follow just a few simple recommendations:

• do not massage or rub the treated area
• do not use make-up until the next morning
• try to stay in an air conditioned room for 4 hours
• avoid all activities that raise the body temperature for at least 24 hours (for example: sunbathing, hot baths, sauna and spa activities)
• avoid hot drinks and excessive alcohol

Q: Post procedure side effects
Hyaluronic acid injection is a very safe procedure but there are rare side effects such as mild bruising, redness and swelling that may occur around the site of injection. It`s generally only “pin point” in size and can be covered with make up after 12 hours.

Q: What kind of hyaluronic acid fillers do you use in your practice?
In our practice we use Esthelis and Fortelis products that were developed by the Swiss company Antenis, using a unique and patented process. This unique technology gives the Esthelis and Fortelis products exceptional qualities, for natural and long-lasting results.

Fortelis lets the deepest wrinkles be treated, increases lip volume and models the faces contours. Esthelis gels are a perfect complement to the in-depth Fortelis treatment, filling and smoothing, superficially, all types of wrinkles on your face and enhancing the contour and drawing of your lips. Fortelis has a remarkable volumizing power while Esthelis has an instant and absolutely “lifting” effect.