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Porcelain Veneers – Frequently Asked Questions

March 05, 2010 @ 05:38 PM — by admin
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Porcelain veneers are growing in popularity any anyone looking to have this procedure is bound to have numerous questions on their mind. Here are a few of the most common ones to help people make their decision.

General Information about Professional Teeth Whitening

March 05, 2010 @ 05:38 PM — by admin
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As teeth age they can lose their brilliant white coloration and this is due to a large number of lifestyle and health factors, all of which can usually be treated through a tooth whitening procedure.

Invisalign® Information

September 07, 2009 @ 02:58 PM — by admin
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Invisalign® clear braces offer an innovative approach to orthodontic treatment. New technology makes it possible to avoid many of the disadvantages of traditional metal braces with the comfortable, transparent, removable Invisalign® system.

Treatment Overview

The Invisalign® system, also referred to as "clear braces" or "invisible braces," is an advanced orthodontic treatment system. For many patients, Invisalign® is an ideal alternative to conventional metal braces. Completely unlike dental braces composed of brackets and wires which are attached to the patient's teeth, the Invisalign® system achieves tooth straightening through a series of transparent, removable plastic aligners which fit snugly over the teeth.

Invisalign® aligners are nearly invisible. Constructed of a clear plastic exclusively created for the custom Invisalign® treatment plan developed by your cosmetic dentist, the aligners slip comfortably over the teeth. The aligners can also be removed for cleaning, making it much easier to maintain good dental hygiene throughout your treatment.

Treatment using Invisalign® consists of a sequence of aligners which are switched out about every two to three weeks. Every aligner is independently manufactured to precise calculations that gradually shift your teeth into place. And since your custom-made Invisalign® system is just that, custom made, you know you'll end up with a smile that truly fits your looks and goals.

Contact a Dentist

If you are ready to learn more about transforming your appearance with Invisalign®, contact our cosmetic dentistry center in Indianapolis today.

Smile Makeover FAQs

August 29, 2009 @ 08:30 PM — by admin
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If you are concerned with the appearance of your smile, a smile makeover may be a good option for you. Using one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures, your dentist can help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.

What is a smile makeover?

A smile makeover utilizes one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and dental implants, to improve the appearance and functionality of your smile. The treatments are customized to meet your individual dental health needs and goals.

How do you get started?

An initial consultation with a cosmetic dentist is the first step in the smile makeover process. Your dentist will start by examining your mouth and taking notes of obvious problem areas such as missing teeth, crooked teeth, or staining. As part of the examination, your dentist may utilize computer imaging to help show you how recommended procedures can be used to address your needs.

Will a smile makeover address existing dental health concerns?

Yes, as part of your smile makeover, your dentist will first want to address any existing dental health needs. If you have cavities, missing teeth, periodontal disease, or other concerns, it is important that these problems be corrected before proceeding with cosmetic enhancements. This will give you the foundation for a long-lasting, successful smile makeover.

For more information about using cosmetic dentistry procedures to achieve a brilliant new smile, please contact our practice today.

 

Teeth Whitening Information

July 26, 2009 @ 06:21 PM — by admin
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Whitening your teeth can drastically improve the appearance of your smile and boost your self-esteem and confidence. Deciding which teeth whitening method is best for you can be hard, however, because there are so many options available. If you need fast teeth whitening results that are effective and long-lasting, professional teeth whitening performed by a cosmetic dentist is probably the best option. Professional teeth whitening can dramatically whiten your teeth several shades in as little as an hour.

Treatment Overview

During a professional teeth whitening treatment the cosmetic dentist will start by isolating the gum area before applying a hydrogen peroxide gel to the teeth. The treatment may use a laser or a special light to increase the whitening effect. After the treatment the gel is rinsed off and results can be seen right away.

Treatment Results

Professional teeth whitening is very effective. Most patients achieve whitening between six and ten shades and the results can last a long time with proper care. However, professional teeth whitening will not lighten crowns, white fillings, veneers, or other dental work.

Treatment Safety

Teeth whitening is an extremely safe cosmetic dentistry procedure. Few patients experience any side effects and the side effects that are commonly experienced are minor, such as teeth sensitivity that usually disappears within a day of the procedure.

Before you choose to use a teeth whitening treatment you should visit a dentist for a check up and cleaning. If you have any other dental issues you may have to resolve them before you can have your teeth whitened. A cosmetic dentist can tell you what type of whitening procedure will work the best for you.

 

Dental Bridges Overview

July 26, 2009 @ 06:19 PM — by admin
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Dental bridges are a common option for replacing a few teeth that may have broken, decayed, or fallen out due to age or certain medications. Instead of getting a full set of dentures, a person who is missing a few teeth in their mouth can opt for a dental bridge. The dental bridges look like natural teeth and are secured in the mouth with porcelain crowns affixed to surrounding teeth.

Dental Bridge Treatment

Patients who are missing a few of their teeth may choose to get a dental bridge to replace the missing teeth and restore the appearance and functionality of their smiles. Dental bridges differ from other tooth replacement options in important ways. Unlike dental implants, dental bridges do not include a replacement for the tooth root. Unlike dentures, dental bridges are a permanent fixture in the mouth and do not require removal for cleaning. Depending on your individual dental health needs, your dentist will help you determine if this cosmetic dentistry option is the right choice for you.

Dental Bridge Results

Dental bridges are made of strong porcelain, so they create a natural-looking appearance that functions just like your real teeth. Your cosmetic dentist will craft the dental bridge to match the size, shape, and color of your surrounding teeth to create the most attractive result. Additionally, because the dental bridges are permanently placed in your mouth, they provide a comfortable, secure fit, allowing you to smile, eat, and speak as you normally would.  

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

April 21, 2009 @ 01:41 AM — by admin
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Many people avoid going to the dentist because they suffer from dental phobias. Others need to have extensive dental work completed and want to combine multiple treatments into one appointment. In both of these cases, sedation dentistry can help.Learn more about sedation dentistry by reviewing the answers to the frequently asked questions below.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a treatment used to help patients who have dental phobias or difficulty remaining still during dental visits. The treatment is also used to allow dentists to perform multiple dental procedures while maximizing the patient's comfort.

What Sedation Methods are Available?

The type of sedation available will vary from dentist to dentist, since not all dentists who offer sedation dentistry are qualified to administer all types. There are three basic methods of sedation, including: oral sedation, IV sedation, and nitrous oxide. Each option has advantages and disadvantages that your dentist can review with you in detail prior to your treatment.

Are You Asleep During Treatment?

Although sedation dentistry is often referred to as "sleep dentistry," a patient is awake, although extremely relaxed, during treatment. In many cases, patients may have little or no recollection of the procedure afterward, but the patient is awake and able to follow directions given by the dentist.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

As with other medical procedures, there are some risks associated with sedation dentistry, but as long as the sedative is administered by a qualified professional, sedation dentistry is extremely safe.

For more information about using dental sedation to maximize the results of your cosmetic dentistry or restorative dentistry treatments, please contact our practice today.

 

Porcelain Veneers Overview

January 20, 2009 @ 02:34 AM — by admin
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One of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures available today, porcelain veneers can treat a number of dental problems. Below is a brief list of frequently asked questions about porcelain veneers.

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. They come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. Your cosmetic dentist will work with you to make a custom set of veneers based on your individual needs.

What problems can be corrected with porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are used to correct many problems. Discoloration or staining of the teeth is one of the most common reasons that people opt to receive porcelain veneers. Veneers can also correct chips, misalignment, and gaps.

How long do porcelain veneers last?

Porcelain veneers are very resistant to stain and wear when taken care of properly. They require regular brushing--just like your real teeth--and teeth grinding or jaw clenching will increase the level of wear. Typically, porcelain veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.

How can I get porcelain veneers?

You'll have to visit a dentist's office. Your dentist will do a full oral health exam to determine whether or not porcelain veneers are right for you. For most people, veneers are a feasible option. However, there are some cases in which they are not. If you have severe cracks or chips, or suffer from gingivitis, you may not be a candidate for this cosmetic dentistry treatment.

Cosmetic Dentistry: Popular Treatments

November 23, 2008 @ 11:39 PM — by admin
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Cosmetic dentistry is extremely popular today given the ability dentists have to make significant improvements to the appearance of patients’ smiles. A few of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments currently available are outlined below. While this list is by no means comprehensive, it may give you an idea about what cosmetic dentistry procedures may be right for you.

Teeth Whitening

There are a number of things that can cause your teeth to become discolored: wine, coffee, soda, tea, smoking, medications, and the natural aging process. Thankfully teeth whitening is available to improve the brightness of your smile. There are different teeth whitening systems and options available, and there are even teeth whitening systems that you can purchase for home use, but regardless, each system will help remove stains and help your smile shine.

Porcelain Veneers

Chips, cracks, discoloration, and even minor problems with misalignment can be concealed using porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells that are placed directly over your existing teeth in order to improve the overall look of your smile. The best part about veneers is that they seamlessly blend in with the rest of your teeth. Veneers can accomplish a great deal without extensive and painstaking dental work.

Invisalign®

Invisalign® is the new, discreet, and popular alternative to traditional metal braces. The Invisalign® system utilizes clear, custom-fit plastic aligners that are gradually replaced every two weeks over the entire treatment process. These aligners are practically invisible and are worn at all times save when eating or drinking. While you may wear your Invisalign® aligners as long as you would wear traditional braces, with Invisalign® few people will notice that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Dental Implants

Missing teeth can cause you to feel self-conscious about your smile and can even lead to serious dental alignment problems down the road. Rather than getting dentures or a dental bridge, you may want to consider dental implants. Dental implants are titanium posts anchored directly into you gums and jawbone, capped by dental crowns. Though dental implants require oral surgery and a recovery period, but the end result is a set of sturdy artificial teeth that look and function just like your regular teeth.