Veneers Archives - Adam Brown Dentistry

Teeth Bonding vs. Veneers: Which Is Right for You?

Andrae Bergeron2023-02-24T17:44:04+00:00February 22nd, 2023|Adam Brown DDS, Dental Bonding, Veneers|

Cosmetic and restorative dentistry have seen great advancements in the last twenty years. In the past, if you had a troublesome tooth it had to be removed and you would have to learn to live with that gap in your smile (fingers crossed it was a tooth in the back of the mouth that had to be removed). Missing teeth can be unattractive for sure, but they can also negatively impact your eating habits because these missing teeth make the remaining teeth pick up the slack, which in effect can cause the healthy ones to wear down and need repair as well.

At Adam Brown DDS we repair or replace bad teeth to restore the mouth, and over the years we have gotten quite good at it. This process can involve multiple procedures, including using fillings, crowns, veneers, bridges, bonding, dental implants, and even partial dentures.

The goal of restorative dentistry is to preserve natural teeth as much as possible and give you the smile you deserve. Which types of cosmetic/restorative dentistry do we encounter at Adam Brown? All sorts, but bonding and veneers are done on a regular basis, leading us to two important questions: What exactly are they, and which is better to have done?

Bonding or Veneers - Which one is better. Adam Brown DDS Monroe NC

The Benefits of Teeth Bonding

Of the plethora of cosmetic and restorative dental treatments, bonding is the one of the least invasive procedures. The act of bonding teeth does not require any tooth removal – a good thing! – as it is designed to correct minor imperfections on the face of the tooth or teeth.

Bonding is done by using a composite resin that evenly blends into the tooth so that it completely covers any stains present — even chips, cracks, or uneven spacing between the teeth. As a final touch, the resin is perfectly matched to your tooth’s shade so there is no way of telling which tooth or teeth have been bonded from those that have not been.

Bonding is perfect for patients needing repair who also suffer from sensitive teeth. It’s likely that the bonding will help with the sensitivity since the resin used will cover any exposed nerves that tend to get triggered when eating or drinking things that are hot or cold. Plus, the bonding process itself is quick and easy, not to mention it’s virtually painless.

What’s more is that bonding can actually strengthen your teeth.

After all, it makes sense that adding a thin layer of durable resin would help protect anything it covers.

This durability will also keep the bonded tooth from chipping, staining, or moving again; you shouldn’t have to worry about follow-up procedures.

The Benefits of Veneers

Like bonding, the process of adding veneers is done to cover the front surface of the tooth to hide imperfections and to keep a healthier tooth. However, unlike the resin used in bonding, veneers are made up of a special porcelain that keeps the teeth aligned. This porcelain can be perfectly matched to the coloration of your other teeth, like bonding, so there is no way of telling which teeth are natural and which are veneered.

The porcelain used is incredibly durable, especially if taken care of properly, and it will not damage your non-veneered teeth. This is a big point of sale for both bonding and veneers, as braces and even removable spacers can pose the possibility of slightly damaging teeth that are not in need of repair.

One thing people tend to like about veneers is that the care for them is minimal. Regular checkups with the dentist and a healthy regimen of flossing and brushing should be all that needs to be done.

Which To Choose: Bonding or Veneers?

Your first consideration when judging between bonding or veneers is your budget. Right off the bat, you should know veneers are going to be more expensive than bonding because veneers are more durable (porcelain beats resin in this case), meaning you need to consider the price of longevity.

Will it actually save you money in the end if you end up having the bonding redone? The best way to find the most accurate answer to this controversy is to meet with your dentist and have a conversation. He can let you know how serious your particular situation is and help you determine the ideal option.

The next consideration between veneers and bonding is the current condition of your teeth. Bonding might be your best option if your teeth or tooth in need of care are rather healthy but need alignment or a chip hidden. On the other hand, the ultra-hard shell of a veneer would be a better choice if you are dealing with discoloration and decay. Think of it like this:

Bonding provides great coverage but may wear over time; veneers provide more of a protectant barrier and should last a lifetime.

Teeth Whitening

The best ways of whitening teeth are debatable, and there are always new devices or methods popping up. Take, for instance, the recent popularity of Smileactives, a whitening product that comes in a gel (with its own, special toothbrush and whitening pen). Created by Robert Montgomery, a biochemist and inventor, Smileactives touts an ability to work on all forms of teeth — whether veneered or bonded or not — to remove tough stains.

Does it work? A quick online search reveals primarily positive results, but the real question isn’t whether it works. It’s how harsh it is on your teeth.

For some of us, the chemicals used in whitening gels and toothpastes are too harsh and end up causing mouth pain. So what should you do if you have sensitive teeth?

Your first step is to come in and meet with Dr. Brown and his team. They can successfully assess your teeth and gums to forecast which method(s) might be best for you.

But, if you absolutely must start the whitening process immediately, follow these tips until you can come see us:

Stay away from trays and gels if your teeth are indeed sensitive. The problem with this method is that it can take weeks for results to show. Plus, most people who use the tray and gels report having teeth sensitivity afterward.
Use caution with whitening strips as well. Though results can show in about a week, this can cause irritation over time. Also, your teeth can become sensitive if you use the strips too often.
When you have the time to wait, use paint-ons. The paint-on method solves the problem of the whitening agent interacting with interior soft tissues, such as the gums and inner cheek. You simply brush the whitening gel on each tooth and let it sit for a short period of time. The only downside to this method is it can take months before results can be seen, and you have to be diligent in getting the gel on each tooth daily.
Whitening devices are your best option. Go ahead and do a little research and find an LED lighting kit to order — you can get them off Amazon!

When it comes to choosing between teeth bonding and veneers, it’s essential to consider the big picture. Bonding can be an excellent solution for minor cosmetic issues, while veneers may be more suitable for larger cosmetic changes and long-term durability. Ultimately, the decision is up to you, and your dentist should help you make the best choice based on your individual needs.

Both teeth bonding and veneers are care treatments that can help restore the look of your smile. Each has pros and cons, so remember to discuss these with Adam Brown DDS before making any decisions!

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All About Dental Veneers: Should You Get Them?

Alex Watson2020-10-19T12:57:35+00:00October 15th, 2020|Veneers|

So, you looked in the mirror the other day and thought, “Why can’t I have teeth like Beyoncé?” Or maybe it was more like, “My smile would be complete if I only had a set of chompers like Patrick Dempsey.”

Perfectly-aligned, pearly white teeth can do wonders for your appearance, not to mention all the mental health benefits that come along with them. But orthodontic procedures are not cheap, and they shouldn’t be committed to on a whim.

One type of dental treatment that has increased in popularity over the years is veneers. In short, dental veneers are thin shells that are bonded to your existing teeth to enhance the appearance of those teeth. When everything goes right with the procedure, getting veneers can truly transform your smile (for the better). However, when everything does not go right—and a lot can go wrong—getting veneers can be something you wholeheartedly regret.

Here’s the gist: Getting veneers is a significant investment, and it comes with risks. However, if you determine that it’s right for you, and you go to a qualified cosmetic dentist, it could provide you with a smile you’ve only ever dreamed about.

If you’re considering getting veneers, or even if you’re just looking into it for the first time, then you’ve come to the right place. Not only is there some great information and advice below, but Dr. Adam Brown is the expert cosmetic dentist you want to see!

WHAT ARE VENEERS?

First of all, it will help to understand exactly what dental veneers are. As previously mentioned, veneers are thin coverings that are permanently attached to the front surfaces of your teeth. The most common materials used for veneers are porcelain and composite resin. And ideally, they will match the surrounding teeth in color.

Veneers are being used more and more often by dentists to treat cosmetic issues like stains, chips, and fractures. Typically priced by the individual tooth, you can get a single veneer to fix a defected tooth. However, a lot of people have six to eight veneers put on—usually on the top teeth. While more expensive, this makes it easier to obtain a symmetrical, natural-looking smile.

Most veneers used today are made of porcelain. The procedure for putting on traditional dental veneers is moderately invasive, though not as invasive as implants or crowns. Getting dental implants means replacing the whole tooth, while crowns are caps placed over an existing tooth. Veneers, on the other hand, cover just the front surface of the tooth.

No Prep Veneers

Nonetheless, applying veneers are a conservative approach that requires minimally adjusting the front of the tooth to allow room for the veneer. In many cases, it’s necessary to adjust the tooth past the enamel for the veneers to be placed correctly. The procedure is irreversible and you can expect a local anesthetic to be used.

There is a less invasive option than traditional veneers. “No-prep veneers” don’t require the shaving of a tooth under the enamel, and putting on no-prep veneers is usually a quicker and all-around easier procedure that doesn’t demand an anesthetic. Whether you need traditional or no-prep veneers will depend largely on the condition of your teeth before the procedure.

SCARY STORIES

If you spend as little as two minutes searching the web, you can find a plethora of horror stories of people who have had terrible experiences with their veneers. In most instances, the failing veneers are due to improper application; that is, the dentist did not have the proper experience and skills to do the procedure. However, the materials used for veneers can also cause problems. And when you have an unqualified dentist using cheap materials, it’s a recipe for disaster.

Another thing to consider is that, while the procedure for traditional veneers is irreversible, the veneers themselves are not permanent. Therefore, they often need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. Here are a few of the most common problems associated with dental veneers failing:

Improper Application

No single person has the same mouth. This may sound obvious, but it is sometimes not taken into consideration during a traditional veneer procedure. All dental veneers must be custom-fit to the individual, and this includes being the right size and shape for the smile’s symmetry. Otherwise, you can run into any number of problems, such as “horse teeth” and vulnerable veneers.

Fractures

Chips and cracks happen most often when veneers are fabricated with cheap porcelain materials. And once you start noticing any signs of breakage, it’s essential to seek help from a qualified cosmetic dentist because the problems can turn disastrous fast.

Separation

Dental veneers can also become loose and separated from teeth over time. More times than not, the culprit is either poor oral health or lack of proper custom fitting. For example, if you have tooth decay or gum disease, it makes it difficult for a veneer to remain adhered to a tooth. Along with doing your part by practicing good oral hygiene, it’s imperative that the dentist thoroughly evaluate your oral health and fabricate the veneers to fit correctly before any procedure takes place.

These are just a few of many things that can go wrong with dental veneers if the entire process is not handled properly. Below, we’ll expand on the primary reasons that veneers go bad.

WHY VENEERS GO WRONG

As previously mentioned, when a dental veneer procedure is unsuccessful, it’s usually due to one of two things: The dentist who performed the procedure was not qualified, or the wrong materials were used. Sometimes, it’s an unfortunate combination of the two.

The Dentist

Cosmetic dentistry is not recognized as a separate field from general dentistry, which leads to many dentists undertaking veneer procedures who are unqualified to do so. Fabricating and applying dental veneers is a complex process that requires ample experience and skill. You may have a great dentist, but unless they are an expert in cosmetic dentistry cases, they shouldn’t be the one performing your dental veneer procedure.

A qualified cosmetic dentist will have a unique ability and passion for facial aesthetics, symmetry, and harmony. They will be able to consult what you want in your new smile and evaluate your face shape, complexion, and teeth to determine the ideal size and shape of your new-and-improved teeth. And they will know exactly what materials to use.

The Materials

When a dentist uses the wrong materials for a patient’s veneer procedure, a variety of things can go wrong. For example, using a cheap bonding agent can cause separation and discoloration. Using outdated or low-quality porcelain can lead to chips and cracks.

Also, the materials used in a procedure should be matched to each person’s unique needs. Someone who tends to grind or clench their teeth, for instance, will require harder material for their veneers than someone who does not. However, the denser the material, the more complex the process becomes for making the teeth look as naturally translucent as possible. So, that’s why it’s essential to evaluate each patient to determine what materials should be used.

FIVE FACTORS TO CONSIDER

If you are interested in getting dental veneers (and you have an experienced cosmetic dentist to turn to), here are five key factors to consider before signing the dotted line:

Oral Health Issues

Are your oral health issues strictly cosmetic, or do they go deeper than that? If you have misshapen teeth, dark or internal stains, and/or small cracks, chips, or gaps, getting veneers might be the best path forward. But if you have gum disease, plaque buildup, or cavities, these issues must be addressed before the process of getting veneers begins. Otherwise, you will simply be covering up unhealthy teeth, which will make the issues worse.

Another consideration is if you have microdontia. While it’s not technically a health concern, microdontia is a hereditary condition that leaves a person with underdeveloped teeth and gaps between the teeth. In short, this makes it looks like they still have baby teeth. If this describes your situation, then veneers are likely the best solution.

Going Through the Process

Getting veneers is not nearly as invasive as getting dental implants. However, it’s still invasive and can be quite painful. You will probably need to go under for the procedure, and you can expect your teeth and gums to be sore for at least a few days following the procedure. Plus, there’s the whole process of consulting your cosmetic dentist, undergoing evaluation, and waiting for your veneers to be fabricated. All this to say that you should make sure you are willing to go through a potentially lengthy and uncomfortable process.

Maintenance and Care

Even if your dental veneers are made of the best materials and are fabricated and applied perfectly, you will need to take care of them. Make sure you are up for this responsibility. Brush and floss at least twice a day, wear a night-guard when sleeping if you grind or clench your teeth, and refrain from biting your nails excessively. Moreover, be conscious of stain-causing substances like coffee, red wine, and cigarettes.

The Costs

Getting dental veneers is not cheap, and because it’s categorized as a cosmetic procedure, it’s rarely covered under insurance. Typically, traditional veneers average about $925 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the type and brand name of veneers used, the expertise of your dentist, and the cost of living in your area. No-prep veneers are a little less expensive at $800 to $2,000. However, traditional veneers can last five to eight years longer than no-prep veneers, which makes traditional veneers the more cost-effective choice in the long run.

Alternative Treatments

Are there cosmetic solutions other than dental veneers that would better meet your specific needs? This is something you will need to discuss during the consultation with your dentist. Depending on your concerns and desires, teeth whitening, dental bonding and contouring, restoration, and/or other less-involved procedures might provide you with the smile of your dreams at a lower price tag.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE PROCEDURE

If you and your cosmetic dentist decide that dental veneers are the best path to giving you the smile you envision, then you should know what to expect when it comes to the actual procedure. Your dentist should cover all of this information during your initial consultation, but here is a brief breakdown of how the process typically goes:

You will have a preliminary appointment in which your dentist will examine your teeth and gums. This is when it will be determined whether any corrective measures should be taken before veneers are placed, such as resolving tooth decay or wearing braces for a time to fix crooked or uneven teeth.
Then, you will go in for an appointment to have your teeth shaved down. This usually involves about half a millimeter being taken off with a grinding tool. The dentist will then take a mold of your teeth and send it off to a lab where your custom veneers will be fabricated. At this point, you may be given temporary veneers made of composite resin.
In a week or two, your dentist should have your porcelain veneers, and you’ll be able to schedule the placement procedure.
Before applying them to your teeth, your dentist will thoroughly evaluate the shape, coloration, and fit of your veneers to ensure they are everything you hoped for.
Then, the dentist will deep clean your teeth to eliminate bacteria. They will also roughen the texture of your teeth with a grinding tool to ensure effective adhesion.
Finally, your dentist will bond the veneers to each tooth using dental cement and will harden the cement with ultraviolet light.

All and all, the application of your veneers should take no longer than two to three hours.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to significantly improve your smile, dental veneers might be perfect for you. Along with understanding what to expect from the process, make sure you address any oral health issues beforehand and that you are prepared to maintain and care for your veneers. Also, run through the costs, and rule out any better, more cost-effective treatments for your situation.

Last but not least, make sure you are working with an expert cosmetic dentist who will use the best materials available. Contact Dr. Adam Brown to schedule your consultation now!

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Why Dental Implants May Be the Right Choice for Your Oral Health

monroe2020-07-16T16:59:46+00:00June 28th, 2018|Carolina's Dental Choice, Dental Bonding, Dental Crowns, Dental Implants, Dental Trends, Dentures, Fixed Bridges, Implants, Teeth Whitening, Veneers|

Carolina’s Dental Choice is committed to the philosophy of restorative dentistry, which is reproducing or repairing teeth and adjoining bones and tissue, through the use of metal and ceramic materials. Though dental implants have been around, in some form, for more than 40 years, it’s surprising how many people today don’t know the procedure is an option to replace a missing tooth or even multiple teeth. Implants are the closest in comparison to natural teeth. They are just as secure, long lasting, and easy to manage.

DENTAL IMPLANTS AND HOW THEY WORK

An implant is a titanium “root” which is placed into the jawbone in order to support a crown, bridge or denture. Ceramic crowns, onlays or veneers address the appearance of the “new tooth.” Over time, the human body completes the process, by growing bone and tissue around the tooth. This provides the artificial implanted tooth with even more stability and permanence.

Treatment generally is a three-part process that takes several months, according to the American Dental Association:

Step 1) The dentist surgically places the implant in the jaw, with the top of the implant slightly above the top of the bone. A screw is inserted into the implant to prevent gum tissue and other debris from entering. The gum then is secured over the implant. The implant will remain covered for approximately three to six months while it fuses with the bone, a process called “osseointegration.” There may be some swelling, tenderness or both for a few days after the surgery, so pain medication usually is prescribed to alleviate the discomfort. A diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup often is recommended during the healing process.

Step 2) The implant is uncovered and the dentist attaches an extension, called a post, to the implant. The gum tissue is allowed to heal around the post. Some implants require a second surgical procedure in which a post is attached to connect the replacement teeth. With other implants, the implant and post are a single unit placed in the mouth during the initial surgery. Once healed, the implant and post can serve as the foundation for the new tooth.

Step 3) The dentist makes a crown, which has a size, shape, color and fit that will blend with your other teeth. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant post.

TOP ORAL CARE TIPS FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants can be an option at just about any age, as long a patient has healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant and is committed to maintaining basic oral care. Implants do not require any further care than one would provide for natural teeth, such as rinsing, flossing, and brushing a few times a day.

“Dental implants are very successful and long lasting but as with any surgical procedure, there might be complications,” writes Dr. Anveeta Agarwal, a consultant oral pathologist. “The best way to avoid dental implant failure is to make sure you practice good dental hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for dental check-ups and cleanings.”

Dental implant care tips include:

Practice good oral hygiene – brush twice a day and floss once daily. Using interdental brushes, brushes that slide between teeth, can help clean the hard to reach areas around your implant.

Quit smoking – smoking can weaken the bone structure and can contribute to implant failure.
Visit your dentist – cleanings and exams every six months can help ensure your implant is in good condition, and that it stays that way.
Avoid chewing on hard foods – don’t chew on hard items such as ice and hard candy because they can break the crown and your natural teeth.

The American Dental Association considers two types of implants to be safe. They are:

Endosteal implants — these are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone. Once the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a second surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. Finally, an artificial tooth (or teeth) is attached to the post-individually, or grouped on a bridge or denture.

Subperiosteal implants — these consist of a metal frame that is fitted onto the jawbone just below the gum tissue. As the gums heal, the frame becomes fixed to the jawbone. Posts, which are attached to the frame, protrude through the gums. As with endosteal implants, artificial teeth are then mounted to the posts.

Though some patients may be reluctant to undergo dental surgery — as well as the idea of having titanium pieces implanted to the jaw — dental implants offer a viable tooth replacement option when other attempts have failed. Patients may have tried bridges or dentures and been unhappy with the results, but dental implants are a healthy alternative.

“For some people, ordinary bridges and dentures are simply not comfortable or even possible, due to sore spots, poor ridges or gagging,” states Colgate. “In addition, ordinary bridges must be attached to teeth on either side of the space left by the missing tooth. An advantage of implants is that no adjacent teeth need to be prepared or ground down to hold your new replacement tooth/teeth in place.”

Additionally, implants serve a cosmetic function. Missing teeth may impact a person’s ability to get a job.

How Dental Implants Can Improve Your Ability to Get a Job

“Poor oral health can significantly diminish quality of life in a number of ways – the most obvious being a person’s ability to eat, sleep and speak,” according to a 2016 report from the North Carolina Oral Health Collaborative. “However, there are also social and economic consequences that can impact a person’s job readiness and performance, and ultimately the economic stability of communities. A survey of North Carolina adults revealed that the impact of oral health on job readiness is greatest among those from low-income households.”

DENTAL IMPLANTS AND COST

Because dental implants can be used for one or more teeth, and the replacement teeth can vary in size and complexity, assigning a cost-point for the procedure can be challenging. At Carolina’s Dental Choice we usually see prices fluctuating anywhere from the $1,000 to the $3,000 range. Before making any final decisions on payment though, it is a good idea for a potential patient to consult with a dental practice and insurance company in order to clarify how much of the cost may be covered.

At Carolina’s Dental Choice we provide information about payment, including insurance, Medicaid, and our in-house saving program online, and we are happy to discuss this information with you in person or over the phone.

OTHER OPTIONS TO DENTAL IMPLANTS

In addition to dental implants, Carolina’s Dental Choice offers traditional dentures, bridges, partials, which replace teeth. Cosmetic options we offer include teeth whitening and veneers, which are porcelain and permanently bonded to your natural teeth. They can enhance tooth shape, color, length and size. Dental bonding repairs teeth with a tooth-colored resin (stable plastic material) that enhances your smile and can be done in one quick and easy visit.

CAROLINA’S DENTAL CHOICE IS HERE FOR YOU

It is our practice to have private consultations with our patients to discuss your teeth, your options, and your treatment. Our dental practice embodies family dentistry by treating our patients like family and working with you to make you smile!

You may find information including new patient forms on our website. Contact us today at 704.239.9519 to schedule your appointment!

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Real or Veneer? The Work Behind Celebrity Smiles!

monroe2020-07-16T17:22:49+00:00February 21st, 2018|Veneers|

It’s no secret that many of us look to celebrities in awe, and often envy, of their straight, white smiles, and wonder ourselves why we weren’t born with perfect teeth. But, the truth is, most celebrities are not gifted with the perfect teeth either.

If we look at celebrities, you’ll be surprised and possibly relieved to see how many of them went through dental work to get the brilliant smiles we know and love today. Let’s take a look at some of celebrity smile transformations to see the power of cosmetic dentistry!

Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise, Dental Work, Cosmetic Dentistry, Carolina Dental Choice

In his teenage days before his major fame, Tom Cruise’s teeth had major gaps in the top row of teeth, a mono-tooth in his front middle teeth, and teeth were generally yellowed. Cruise underwent a major transformation with braces and dental veneers.

Experts recommend dental veneers for damaged, stained, misshapen, or worn-down teeth. Veneers are custom-made shells of tooth colored materials to cover the front of your tooth and improve the appearance of your teeth.

A combination of teeth bracing and porcelain veneers gave Tom Cruise the striking, handsome smile he has today.

Hillary Duff
Dental Work, Cosmetic Dentistry, Carolina Dental Choice, Hillary Duff, Hillary Duff's Teeth

Hillary Duff was America’s sweetheart in the early 2000’s for her Disney Channel stardom days on the Lizzie McGuire Show. When she began to transition from acting into a more serious singing career, she chipped her tooth on a microphone during a concert. Instead of fixing the singular tooth, Hillary decided to get upgrade to a full set of veneers. While her smile wasn’t too bad before, her smile now is stunning!

Morgan Freeman

Dental Work, Cosmetic Dentistry, Carolina Dental Choice, Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman is one of the best known and revered actors of our generation, but we probably did not pay much attention to his teeth. Naturally, as we age, our teeth decay and yellow, and Freeman was no exception. Freeman decided to see a cosmetic dentist, close the gap between his teeth, possibly had teeth extractions and teeth implants to get the smile we recognize today. Freeman certainly looks years younger with his straight, whitened smile.

Zac Effron

Dental Work, Cosmetic Dentistry, Carolina Dental Choice

Right before the filming of the first High School Musical, Zac Effron’s gap disappeared. Using Invisalign, the invisible braces options through a clear aligner, in a matter of months, Zac had a straight smile. His charming grin was also improved with a whitening treatment to get a sparkling, white smile. Admittedly, we might not have ever noticed his smile, due to his latest films focusing on his trademark abs. Fans speculate that he might have veneers now, but the heartthrob has never commented on the matter.

Many celebrities have beautiful smiles, but they worked with their dentists to get the smile they wanted. You also have the power to get the smile you want, and Carolina Dental Choice is here to help. You don’t need Hollywood’s most expensive dentists to get the same work done, whether those are teeth implants, veneers, or whitening. In fact, most of the dental work you’ve seen done to these celebrities can and has been done in our office! If you want to talk to us about your smile, give us a call today at 704-289-9519 to schedule your next consultation.

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Seven Ways To Get Your Smile Ready For Summer!

monroe2020-07-16T17:11:15+00:00April 30th, 2017|Dental Bonding, Dental Crowns, Dental Implants, Fixed Bridges, Implants, Teeth Cleaning, Teeth Whitening, Veneers|

With a whole season of fun events ahead you’ll want to make sure you look your best. Whether you are posing for that summer beach picture or smiling at a wedding you want your teeth to look their best. Make an appointment at Carolina’s Dental Choice to have your teeth cleaned or perhaps get a quick fix for a problem tooth.

Teeth Whitening Wilmington

Here are quick ways to improve your smile for the summer:
1 Teeth Whitening
Do you drink several cups of coffee in the morning or eat foods that stain your teeth? Dr. Vaghani or Dr. Luckhardt can remove those stains with a simple, inexpensive teeth whitening procedure within a few weeks. Using a carbamide peroxide gel that stays active for up to 6 hours you should notice a dramatic difference within a day. Our dentist use Opalescence tooth whiten gel. It has a good track record and can safely be administered at home. The gel can stay on for short periods of time or over night. Patients often find this form of teeth whitening easy to use. The Opalescence gel comes in three different flavors and prevents dehydration. The gel works by bleaching your teeth to get rid of stains or discoloration.
2 Teeth Cleaning
Sometimes all it takes is a deep clean to do the trick! A deep clean at Carolina’s Dental Choice is an easy way to give your teeth a lift and help prevent dental issues. It is recommended that patients make it a routine to have their teeth cleaned regularly.

During a routine clean, patient’s teeth are brushed diligently, flossed, and examined for cavities and other dental formalities. This teeth cleaning removes plaque and tar that form on the teeth that can be hard to see and difficult to remove. The dentist will clean each individual tooth and remove all unwanted materials on the tooth through brushing, flossing, scrapping, and special dental techniques.

3 Dental Crowns

Uneven teeth? Discolored teeth? Or a week tooth? That’s where dental crowns can help. Dental crowns are designed to help restore the shape, color, and strength of a tooth. This is a considerable option for dental and cosmetic reasons. One of our experienced dentists will examine your teeth to see if a dental crown is necessary and to identify which crown would bet fit your dental needs. A dental crown is a tooth shaped, porcelain crown that goes over the tooth. This is best for weak teeth that are predicted to crack or break or for teeth that have already cracked. The dental crown can also help support dental bridges or be used for cosmetic purposes.

As a bonus, most insurance companies cover dental crowns if the procedure is necessary.

4 Veneers

Looking for that perfect Hollywood Smile? Veneers are a great choice to cosmetically enhance your smile. The veneer is a thin custom made cover that can be placed over the teeth. They are made of porcelain and look identical to natural teeth. The veneer is permanently bonded to your tooth to keep your smile looking great!

Veneers change the shape, size and color of your teeth. First, a small portion of the original enamel is removed, this allows for room for the veneer to be placed on the tooth and function just like the natural tooth. Veneers may even be placed on the same day with minimally prepped veneers. This type of veneer requires no enamel to be grinded down.

5 Implants

If you have thought about dental implants before, take a second look. This procedure and the products associated with it have changed dramatically over the last six months. Implants are the latest innovation in cosmetic dentistry. If you are missing a tooth or two dental implants are a recommended way to replace missing teeth. The implant is a permanent replacement that is durable and looks natural. It can also be an alternative to getting dentures. Dental implants are embedded into the jaw and covered with an artificial tooth that matches other teeth.

There are two types of dental implants; endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants. Endosteal implants are directly implanted through a surgical procedure that implants directly into the jawbone. After the gum tissue is healed another surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. After these surgeries have taken place am artificial tooth is placed on the post. The subperiosteal implants are metal frames that are placed on to the jawbone just below the gum tissue. When the gum heals, the frame is secured into the jawbone. Then a post is attached to the frame and an implant is attached.

6 Fixed Bridges

The fixed dental bridge is another method done at Carolina’s Dental Choice to help repair missing teeth. A fixed bridge is a procedure used to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge consists of two or more crowns. These artificial teeth can be made using gold, alloys, porcelain, or a mixture. The bridges are supported by natural teeth or implants. Dental bridges have many benefits that can help you obtain the perfect smile, create a proper way of speaking and eating, create structure, and prevent teeth from moving out of place.

There are three main types of dental bridges; Traditional Bridges, Cantilever Bridges, and Maryland Bonded Bridges. Traditional Bridges uses a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth. This is the most often form of bridge and is usually mad in ceramics or a porcelain fused to metal. Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on one side only of the missing teeth. This is not a very common form of bridge. Finally, there is the Maryland Bonded Bridge, these are gums supported by a framework of metal or porcelain and use porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or plastic teeth. The wings are often on one side of the bridge and bond to natural teeth.

7 Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a very quick and easy way to repair teeth that have cavities, cracks, chips, or to alter the shape and size. Dental bonding is a one-trip visit that makes it quick and easy. The bond is very cost effective. The bond is done by using a tooth-colored resin that is a durable plastic material. The dental bond can last anywhere from three to ten years!

To book an appointment before your spring event call Carolina’s Dental Choice at 704-289-9519. Dr. Brown and his team of wonderful dental experts would love to help enhance your smile so you can be confident and smile with pride!

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