Your Guide to a Healthy, Beautiful Smile

I’m Interested In Getting Some Cosmetic Dental Work Done. Will I Be Able To See What The Result Would Look Like?

Yes. When patients want cosmetic work done, we have a 3D model of it made. We take a digital scan of their teeth, make a 3D design, and print a wax-up of what their smile would look like. They can hold it, try it in, and make any changes they’d like. The patient generally wears their temporary crowns for two weeks, which allows them time to decide if they want any changes made. We also make sure the patient loves the final look of their crowns or veneers before being permanently cemented.

How Can I Make My Crowns Last Longer?

Get regular cleanings and get a checkup every six months. I also recommend using an electric toothbrush twice a day, as well as flossing and using a Waterpik at night. A nightguard is helpful for patients who grind or clench their teeth. If patients have what we call a traumatic occlusion, we will refer them for orthodontic treatment first.

I Feel Like I Might Be Clenching Or Grinding My Teeth. What Can I Do?

We would do a TMJ, muscular, and tooth surface assessment. If you wake up with a headache, tight jaw, or soreness in your face, you might be grinding. The first and most conservative step would be prescribing a professionally made night guard. We also assess teeth for any damage that could require crowns, fillings, or extractions.

Do I Really Need To Go To The Dentist Every Six Months?

Absolutely you should go every six months. This is mostly preventative care to keep periodontal disease from forming and preventing cavities. Teeth don’t hurt until something is getting close to the nerve. Fixing the focus on preventing issues as opposed to repairing ones will, in the long run, save you time, money, and pain.

Why Have My Gums Been Bleeding?

Bleeding gums are usually a sign of inflammation. This can be caused by gingivitis, periodontal disease, cavities, or underlying system conditions. In periodontal disease, there is calculus hiding below the gum line that you can’t remove on your own at home and ultimately causes bone loss. When a hygienist mechanically removes calculus, your gums can heal. Daily flossing will help prevent these issues from arising. A Waterpik is great if you have crowns or implants because you can get deeper under the tissue than using floss alone.

Are Some People Just More Prone To Cavities? Any Mouthwash I Should Use To Prevent Cavities?

Yes, some people are more prone to getting cavities. One major factor is the pH of your mouth. Some people are just blessed with good buffering saliva. People with a more acidic mouth, which can be caused by dry mouth, or those who frequently consume coffee, lemon water, or bubbly water tend to be more prone to cavities. As far as mouthwash, we love Listerine. If you have dry mouth, we recommend ones that don’t contain alcohol, like Biotene or Stellalife, a homeopathic option.