Category: Cosmetic Dentistry

As the holiday season comes to a close, Americans nationwide look towards the future and plan their resolutions. While many Americans make some type of clear resolutions, far fewer actually reach those goals by the time the ball drops again. Self-improvement options are always the most popular resolutions with weight loss and financial improvements heading the pack. Of course, those take a lot more time and effort than most people are willing to accept. You can still win the year by ringing in the New Year with a new smile and your Red Bank New Jersey Dentist can help. But what are some of the most achievable and most effective dental options to help create a new you? 

Professional Teeth Whitening

In-store whitening kits are popular, but those one-size-fits-all claims just aren’t legit. While they can brighten a few shades, they just don’t offer anywhere near the results of in-office dental applications. Moreover, those in-store kits can get expensive and addictive, not to mention cause extra dental issues if they even work at all. Professional teeth whitening can be customized to each patient’s needs, results can be achieved quickly; and it can be as affordable, if not more so, than over-the-counter options in the long run.

Lumineers

Porcelain veneers are the celebrity “secret” to red carpet smiles, but they’re invasive and irreversible. The porcelain shells are about the width of a contact lens and require some prep to affix correctly to existing teeth. Therefore, a small amount of enamel needs to be removed. Once that’s done, the procedure cannot be reversed. Lumineers, however, work just like their veneer counterpart with a few exceptions. They’re about half the width of porcelain veneers, so no extra prep work is required. Enamel remains intact and allows the patient to reverse the procedure if they change their minds or opt for another solution down the road.  

Composite Fillings

You may not have new cavities or need existing fillings repaired. But if you have amalgam (silver) fillings, it may be more beneficial to have them replaced with tooth-colored fillings. Composite fillings use a dental grade resin material that is dyed and cured to match the shade of your surrounding teeth. So say goodbye to metal mouth or spotty smiles. Amalgam fillings also contain up to 50% mercury. And while the ADA insists they’re safe, there’s plenty of scientific evidence to the contrary. If silver fillings have you down, composite alternatives can bring some joy back into your life.

A New Smile Makeover

A smile makeover usually consists of two or more procedures that create a customized new smile for the patient. Your smile makeover may include any number of options including professional teeth whitening and Lumineers, crowns and dental implants, TMJ treatment and dentures, or bonding and composite fillings. Contact your Red Bank New Jersey dentist when you’re ready to discover which options will help you easily reach those resolutions once and for all with a new for the New Year.

If you’re looking at the potential of having to get or replace your tooth fillings, you’re definitely not alone. According to the most recent national survey on adult tooth loss, 91% of adults between the ages of 27 and 64 have cavities. Almost 30% of those adults have untreated tooth decay. And the cavity percentage rises to 96% of adults 65 and older. Modern dental materials are stronger than ever but while fillings are durable, they don’t last indefinitely. If you got your last new shiny amalgams in 1972, guess what? You’re in dire need of replacements. In fact, if your fillings are older than a decade or two, chances are they at least need to be checked for severe leaks and cracks. While you’re there, your Manhattan cosmetic dentist may strongly suggest upgrading to composite fillings. But what are the benefits of tooth-colored fillings?

Tooth-Colored Fillings Are Aesthetically Appealing
If you’ve seen or spoken with anyone who’s had silver, or amalgam, fillings you’ve undoubtedly gotten a visual shock as soon as they opened their mouth. Tooth-colored fillings are matched to the patient’s existing and surrounding teeth. Composite resin is safe and effective for repairing and filling the damage left behind by dental caries without compromising the beauty of your natural smile.

They’re Strong and Durable
Composite dental materials aren’t as strong as metal, but they’re not meant to be. Porous materials like ceramic and resin mold, bend and adjust to each patient’s needs for a better fit and overall lifestyle solution. With the right care such as brushing, flossing, and maintaining proper dental visits, your tooth-colored fillings can last a decade or longer without the need for repair or replacement. You’ll also need to watch the bad habits, however, like grinding your teeth or chewing on pens, ice, or fingernails to avoid accidentally breaking or dislodging your new fillings. But your Manhattan cosmetic dentist can help you toss those bad habits once and for all.

They’re Biocompatible
Amalgams are poured into the damage teeth, forming an eventual seal as they set. However, metal is affected by temperature and can swell or shrink based on something as simple as beverage temperature. This can in turn cause already weakened enamel to crack or split further and lead to more tooth damage. Composite fillings, however, are molded to the teeth and fit carefully without those concerns. Less of the tooth needs to be removed and the materials bond instantly to the existing tooth so you have one less thing to worry about.

Tooth-Colored Fillings Are Mercury-Free
Mercury is one of the most toxic elements found in nature. The American Dental Association may flop back and forth regarding the dangers of amalgam fillings, but silver fillings contain around 50% mercury. Even in small doses, mercury is dangerous at best and potentially toxic vapors continuously emit once placed in the mouth. Those vapors can be absorbed through tissue, saliva, and the bloodstream and then cause potentially serious issues in the body. Composite fillings, however, are completely safe and mercury-free. So the last thing you’ll have to worry about is your dental work messing with the rest of your health. A single call to your Manhattan cosmetic dentist can get the ball rolling on a safer and smarter solution for filling those dental caries or replacing your amalgams.

No one needs to be born with a perfect smile when they can simply buy one. Cosmetic dentistry is such a common option now that there’s no reason to suffer in silence and hide your smile anymore. In fact, according to over a decade’s worth of research from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 86% of patients opt for cosmetic procedures simply to improve their appearance. Almost 50% of patients get a smile makeover for a special upcoming event and 45% of patients rely on cosmetic dentistry to reverse premature aging or look younger. Lumineers are among the most popular solutions for a quick smile transformation. But what are Lumineers and why can they potentially work for you?

What Are Lumineers

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’re likely aware that Hollywood celebrities aren’t born with perfect teeth any more than the rest of us are. But they do have round-the-clock beauty teams, many of which contain dentists that offer the celebrity beauty secret: porcelain veneers. But not everyone can afford the expense or wants the permanence of the original porcelain correctional shells. Meet their cosmetic cousin, Lumineers. Made from the same durable laminate material, Lumineers are about half the width of their predecessors. That means they may be more comfortable and workable for everyday needs.

Lumineers Are Non-Invasive

Traditional veneers are thin in comparison to your natural tooth, but they’re thick enough to require aggressive placement. This always requires removal of some tooth surface to affix the shells. For that reason, traditional veneers are irreversible. However, that’s not the case with Lumineers. The thinner shells can be easily sculpted for a perfect fit and affix right to the existing enamel without any worries regarding tooth removal. And if you change your mind, your Johns Creek Dentist can easily remove them.

Lumineers Are a Durable Investment

Cosmetic dentistry is an investment in personal confidence. And the last thing anyone wants is a shoddy smile makeover. Once you leave your dentist’s office, you should be grinning ear to ear knowing you look as good as you feel. A competent cosmetic dentist can shape, color, mold, and affix Lumineers to help ensure your smile stays beautiful for 10 to 20 years with normal life wear. While Lumineers are less expensive than traditional veneers, they’re still a significant initial financial investment. But considering how long they last and how much enjoyment they provide, they can pretty much pay for themselves over their lifespan.

Lumineers Correct Multiple Issues

There’s no such thing as a magic pill in cosmetic dentistry, but Lumineers may be about the closest thing to one. Stained enamel, chips and cracks, gaps, poor tooth alignment, and misshapen teeth can all be corrected with different and separate procedures. But if you’re dealing with multiple issues or want a quick fix to an otherwise extensive correction, Lumineers can be the solution you’ve been looking for. When you’re ready to change your life for the better, call your Johns Creek Dentist to see if Lumineers are the right fit for your needs.

 

 

Americans may have unrealistic definitions of beauty, but that certainly doesn’t keep millions from attempting to achieve the perfect smile. Cosmetic dentistry provides multiple options to finally obtain the beautiful smile you want and deserve. Porcelain veneers are the go-to option for celebrity smiles, so it comes as no surprise the procedure is a favorite among millions of Americans. The customized smile makeover solution is an investment that can pay for itself multiple times during its lifespan. However, while porcelain veneers have been proven to last up to 20 years with the right care, studies have shown some patients are lucky to get 6 years out of their investment. Fortunately, there are some simple dos and don’t’s to help you keep smiling for years to come.

What to Do

Keep Track of What You’re Eating. Veneers are forgiving, but they’re not impervious to everything. Certain foods can still stain or dull the materials. And if you eat too much junk food, you could potentially have another problem. As veneers are attached to the tooth, plaque and tartar can still attach to the bonding agents and lead to dental caries and decay.

Develop and maintain excellent oral health habits. You should already have excellent home oral health habits prior to getting porcelain veneers. But if not, they should definitely be developed and maintained after your new procedure is completed. Follow suggestions of the American Dental Association by brushing twice and flossing once every day unless your dentist suggests otherwise.

Schedule regular dentist visits. You should see your dentist at least twice a year, especially when you’ve had any significant work done. But when it comes to porcelain veneers, you may also need to schedule polishing appointments. That will help ensure your veneers stay beautiful and the bonding remains strong so you can continue enjoying your stress-free smile.

What Not to Do

Don’t drink alcohol. Yes, it may be a shock, but those with porcelain veneers need to avoid alcohol. Beyond the obvious health and dental risks from the excess sugar, the acids in alcohol quickly dissolve the bonding material responsible for holding the porcelain shells to your teeth. Even social drinking can be problematic as soon the veneers may be completely unusable.

Don’t bite overly down hard on anything. Porcelain veneers are pretty forgiving and strong, so most foods are acceptable. However, if the food choice will require extra effort from your teeth to eat, consider an alternative option. Either cut the food into smaller bite-sized pieces or opt for a softer food. Also avoid chomping on ice, pencils, and any other hard objects. Biting hard can create cracks or chip the porcelain. And you definitely want to avoid that.

Don’t clench or grind your teeth. When life stress hits particularly hard, bruxism is often the result. Tooth grinding can lead to multiple problems including jaw displacement, worn teeth, and headaches. Porcelain veneers are strong, but they can’t resist the extra strain from consistent clenching and grinding. So if that’s an issue, see your Manhattan cosmetic dentist and at least wear a night guard until the problem is corrected.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), research has proven that at least one-third of Americans are unhappy with their smile and 78% of Americans perceive crooked or unattractive teeth are a deterrent to professional success. It may seem unfair and ridiculous in this day and age that something as minor as an imperfect smile could make such a difference in life. But the truth is, we’re a vain nation and physical attraction goes a long way to improve your station. That’s not to say someone needs to be a supermodel or bodybuilder to be happy. Not at all. But having an attractive smile builds trust, improves social standing, and increases attention and interest from potential romantic partners and employers. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend your life’s savings or wait years for the procedure to take effect thanks to modern cosmetic dentistry. But what are the main benefits of cosmetic bonding?

Cosmetic Bonding Is Safe For You and Your Teeth

Dental or cosmetic bonding is a procedure that involves attaching strong dental materials such as resin, composite glass, porcelain, or a combination to a tooth. The dentist then shapes the material to the desired form and light cures it to reinforce its strength. Bonding is best suited for minor cosmetic changes like repairing chips and cracks, improving worn teeth, or filling in gaps. Bonding materials are easily matched to the natural color of your teeth and actually feels and responds like your original tooth. Thus, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry concludes that bonding is the best option for repairing chipped teeth due to its ease, comfort, and strength.

Cosmetic Bonding Is a Fast Solution

A perfect smile and speedy service rarely go hand-in-hand. After all, it takes time to realign and thoroughly correct orthodontic work. However, bonding is a cosmetic procedure, not necessarily a restorative one. That means the procedure doesn’t actually repair or replace the affected tooth, but it covers and corrects the imperfections. Cosmetic bonding is a dental solution that’s strong enough for daily life stress while creating and maintaining the attractive smile you need and deserve. Unlike other cosmetic dentistry solutions, bonding is quick and easy, often completed within an hour or two per affected tooth. So you could effectively get the smile of your dreams during your lunch hour.

Cosmetic Bonding Is Good for Your Wallet

Dental work tends to be a serious investment in both time and financial resources. That’s one reason many people put off having necessary work done. Braces or Invisalign can take years to complete and cost several thousand dollars for the procedure. Porcelain veneers can take a few visits and cost up to a couple thousand dollars per tooth. And while they work wonders, dental implants are surgically inserted and they’re definitely not for those on a tight budget. But cosmetic bonding is different. For as little as $100-$400 per tooth, you can regain or obtain the smile of your dreams once and for all. Give your Manhattan cosmetic dentist a call when you’re ready to see if bonding is the right cosmetic dentistry procedure for you.

Even the slightest dental issues can cause a person to hide their smile. Of course, beauty is subjective and what may seem like a barely visible issue to one person may stand out like a beacon to another. Anything from sudden temperature changes in the mouth to getting hit in the face with a hockey puck can cause a tooth to chip or crack. And they’re not always exclusive. Once a deep crack sets in, the chip is often inevitable. Wait too long to treat it, and the injury can cause extra sensitivity, pain, lower self-esteem, damage tooth pulp, and even require a root canal to repair. But if you act relatively quickly and see your dentist as soon as possible, simple repairs even such as dental bonding or crowns may just save the day and the tooth. But what are the three easiest ways to fix a tooth and how exactly do they work?

Dental Bonding

Bonding is one of the easiest and most affordable dental solutions to repair minor problems. So if the chip is relatively small and uncomplicated, your dentist will likely suggest dental bonding. This is a quick and simple procedure in which your dentist uses a tooth-colored composite material to cover the healthy area of the chipped tooth. They’ll file the enamel slightly and mold the composite to look like a natural extension of the tooth. Light rays harden the material, and once it’s applied a professional dental bonding can last a decade or longer without any issues or worries.

Porcelain Veneers

Larger, more prominent, or otherwise more severe chips that seriously affect your appearance may need the help of porcelain veneers. These wafer-thin porcelain shells are the Hollywood secret for red carpet smiles. But they’re easily adapted to general life needs as well. This procedure takes two to three office visits to achieve, and they are an investment. But if you’ve ever wanted a perfect smile, they’re completely worth it. Your dentist will make molds, color match the porcelain shells to your surrounding teeth, lightly file down the enamel of the tooth or teeth involved, and affix the shells once they’re created. Clinical testing has concluded that porcelain veneers can last up to 20 years without any issues, so they’re a potentially permanent solution for more obvious chips.

Crowns

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped topper or cap that fits over a damaged tooth to correct the damage and restore the strength and structure of the broken or cracked tooth. Dental crowns are suggested for multiple reasons over bonding or veneers. If the tooth in question those surrounding it are especially weak, or the damaged tooth is badly discolored your dentist may heavily suggest a crown. The patient may also request a crown for cosmetic reasons. Crowns are generally applied when the chip is relatively severe, and a significant amount of the tooth is missing. A crown usually requires two visits: one to file the damaged tooth and make the mold, and the second appointment is the fitting once the crown has been completed. Regardless of which option you and your dentist decide upon to correct your chipped tooth, a simple call is the first step to a new beautiful smile.