Q. What is the best way to whiten my teeth?
A. Each case is different and the end result is hard to predict with any form of whitening; we offer two. The first is ZOOM system whitening (TM) which takes one in-office session (about 2 hours). The second is custom whitening trays which are worn with whitening gel for about 30 minutes per day for three to four weeks. Both techniques lighten teeth to about the same degree and is dependent upon the original shade. Remember that no matter which method you choose, your teeth will revert back over time and will require touch ups. Also, whitening only works on enamel of natural teeth and will not change the shade of crowns, veneers or fillings, except by possibly removing surface stain.
These are just brief explanations and we encourage you to contact us for more information. We are here to help you.
Q. What's the difference between silver and tooth colored filling materials?
A. The obvious difference is in appearance. Tooth colored fillings look like natural teeth. There are, however, other differences. Tooth colored fillings can, in many cases, be kept much smaller than silver fillings and are thus less likely to weaken the existing tooth. Tooth colored fillings are more likely to get recurrent decay than are silver fillings in an individual that is decay prone. Tooth colored fillings are much harder to do in remote areas of the mouth where it's more difficult to keep things dry during the filling process. Tooth colored fillings are typically more expensive than silver fillings. In terms of longevity, they are about the same. Be sure to ask which would be best for you.
These are just brief explanations and we encourage you to contact us for more information. We are here to help you.
Q. What are porcelain veneers?
A. Porcelain veneers are thin pieces of porcelain which can be bonded onto existing teeth. This procedure is normally used to change the appearance of your teeth in terms of position and color. Veneering has become a very popular cosmetic procedure. If you want to change the appearance of your smile, please ask if this would work for you. Patients that choose not to take the orthodontic route often consider veneers as an excellent alternative. They can usually be done in two appointments.
These are just brief explanations and we encourage you to contact us for more information. We are here to help you.
Q. When are crowns appropriate instead of fillings?
A. Although fillings can usually be done, crowns are often times more desirable when teeth are weakened by previous filling material. Teeth with too much filling material and compromised enamel are very often prone to fracture.* Although the "wait until it breaks" philosophy is an option, this can often lead to more expense in the future and even tooth loss.
*It's not the fault of the filling but the fact that too little tooth exists to support the filling.
These are just brief explanations and we encourage you to contact us for more information. We are here to help you.
Q. What are implants?
A. Implants are titanium cylinders imbedded in the jaw bone to which crowns can be fixed. This is done to replace missing teeth. They can also be used to tighten loose dentures. They have gained much popularity over the years and are used quite successfully today.
These are just brief explanations and we encourage you to contact us for more information. We are here to help you.
Q. How do I know if I have gum disease?
A. Unfortunately, most patients who have gum disease are unaware of it until it is too late for treatment. Often times, patients with gum disease don't even notice their gums bleeding nor do they experience any pain symptoms. This is why routine check-ups are so important. There are many new treatments for gum disease but they are more likely to be successful when the disease is caught in it's early stages. If you smoke or have a genetic predisposition, you are at a high risk for gum disease.
These are just brief explanations and we encourage you to contact us for more information. We are here to help you.
Q. What treatments are available for bite problems leading to grinding and/or jaw joint problems?
A. First, all bite problems do not necessarily lead to grinding or joint problems. For those that do, the following options exist:
1. Orthodontics
2. Tooth surface adjustment - allows teeth to have better contact with jaw
3. Night guard
4. Any combination of the above
In our opinion, this is an area of dentistry which is prone to over-treatment. If your dentist has told you that you need to get all of your teeth crowned to correct this problem, we recommend you get a second opinion.
These are just brief explanations and we encourage you to contact us for more information. We are here to help you.