Monday, February 19, 2024
What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?
Monday, February 5, 2024
Understanding the cost of cosmetic dentistry: What you can expect to pay for common procedures
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
Making your teeth look better with veneers
Everybody wants the best smile possible and there’s no need to have it spoiled by gaps in your teeth or by teeth that are stained or badly shaped.
Whether the problem was caused by nature or by an injury, you may be able to have a veneer placed on top of your teeth to restore or improve your smile.
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of teeth.
Your dentist will usually make a model of your teeth and the veneers will be made by a specialist dental technician.
A small amount of enamel has to be removed from your teeth to accommodate the shell so having veneers is usually an irreversible process.
In order to make the most of your veneer, your dentist may suggest that you avoid foods and drinks that could discolor them, such as coffee, tea or red wine.
It’s also possible that veneers might chip or fracture.
But, for many people, veneers are well worth it as they give them a completely new smile.
Wednesday, January 3, 2024
The secrets of avoiding gum disease as an older adult
Gum disease also known as periodontal disease often progresses slowly, without pain, over a long period of time and that’s one reason it is common among older adults.
The longer the disease goes undetected and uncontrolled, the more damage it causes to gums and other supporting tissues.
Although periodontal disease is caused by plaque, other factors can increase the risk or severity of the condition, including:
– Food left between the teeth
– Tobacco use smoking and smokeless tobacco
– Badly aligned teeth
– Ill-fitting bridges or partial dentures
– Poor diet
– Systemic diseases such as anemia
Although periodontal disease is common, it can be controlled and, if caught in its early stages, it can be reversed. However, in advanced stages, it may require surgery.
Look out for the following warning signs and see your dentist if you notice any of them:
– Bleeding gums when you brush
– Red, tender or swollen gums
– Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
– Pus between your teeth and gums when the gums are pressed
– Loose teeth or teeth moving apart
– Any change in your bite
– Any change in the fit of your partial dentures
– Constant bad breath or bad taste
Keeping an eye out for these problems and having regular dental checkups can help you stop gum disease becoming a major and expensive problem.
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
The Benefits of Dental Implants: A Comprehensive Overview
Wednesday, December 6, 2023
How to choose the right cosmetic dentist for your needs
Choosing the right cosmetic dentist is an important decision that
can significantly impact the appearance of your smile. There are several
factors to consider when selecting a cosmetic dentist, including their
credentials, experience, and patient reviews. Here are some tips to help you
choose the right cosmetic dentist for your needs.
- Check the dentist's credentials: Look for a cosmetic dentist who is licensed and accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). These credentials ensure that the dentist has undergone specialized training in cosmetic dentistry and meets high standards of professionalism.
- Review their experience: Choose a cosmetic dentist with experience in the specific procedure you're interested in. Ask the dentist how many similar procedures they have performed and what their success rate is. You may also want to request before and after photos of their previous patients.
- Consider their approach: Find a cosmetic dentist who takes a personalized approach to treatment and takes the time to understand your goals and concerns. A good cosmetic dentist will also explain the risks and benefits of each procedure and provide alternatives to help you make an informed decision.
- Read patient reviews: Look for patient reviews online to get a sense of the dentist's reputation and the quality of their work. You can also ask for referrals from friends or family members who have had cosmetic dental procedures.
- Evaluate the office environment: Visit the dentist's office to see if it's clean and organized, and if the staff is friendly and professional. A comfortable and welcoming environment can help ease any anxiety you may have about the procedure.
Choosing the right cosmetic dentist is a critical step in
achieving the smile you desire. By considering factors like their credentials,
experience, approach, patient reviews, and office environment, you can find a
cosmetic dentist who will help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve.
Wednesday, November 22, 2023
What to do if you have problems with your dentist
Choosing the right dentist for your needs is an important part of giving yourself the best oral health possible.
Sometimes you may find that things are not working out for the best and it’s important to take steps to resolve any problems rather than just put off your dental care.
First, talk to your dentist about any concerns. They will probably be able to accmmodate your needs if you tell them what you are looking for.
In some situations, you may feel that you want to look around at alternative options – maybe there are other dentists who meet your needs better, taking into account factors such as location, office hours, fees and emergency arrangements.
If you are comparing fees, ask for estimates on full-mouth x-rays and a preventive dental visit that includes an oral exam and tooth cleaning.
If you have any doubts about treatment your dentist has recommended, it may be a good idea to set your mind at rest by getting a second opinion from another dentist.
However, even in the best dentist-patient relationship, problems can sometimes occur. If your dentist is not able to resolve your concerns, you can contact your state or local dental association.
They have established systems of peer review that provide an impartial and easy way to resolving misunderstandings regarding the appropriateness or quality of care.
If you are not completely satisfied with the dental treatment you are getting, it’s important to take steps to put it right – whether you sort it out with your own dentist or find another one.