If you're feeling somewhat self-conscious about your teeth, or just
want to improve your smile, cosmetic dental treatments may be the answer
to a more beautiful, confident smile.
Cosmetic dentistry has become very popular in the last several years, not
only due to the many advances in cosmetic dental procedures and materials
available today, but also because patients are becoming more and more
focused on improving their overall health. This includes dental prevention
and having a healthier, whiter, more radiant smile.
In today's economic climate, obtaining that career you have strived for
can be very competitive. Having a great smile can increase confidence and
build self-esteem.
There are many cosmetic dental procedures available to improve your teeth
and enhance your smile. Depending on your particular needs, cosmetic dental
treatments can change your smile dramatically, from restoring a single tooth
to having a full mouth make-over. Ask Dr. Williamson how you can improve the
health and beauty of your smile with cosmetic dentistry.
Cosmetic Procedures:
Teeth Whitening: Bleaching lightens teeth that have been stained or
discolored by age, food, drink, and smoking. Teeth darkened as a result
of injury or taking certain medications can also be bleached, but the
effectiveness depends on the degree of staining present.
Composite (tooth-colored) Fillings: Also known as "bonding",
composite fillings are now widely used instead of amalgam (silver) fillings
to repair teeth with cavities, and also to replace old defective
fillings. Tooth-colored fillings are also used to repair chipped, broken,
or discolored teeth. This type of filling is also very useful to fill in
gaps and to protect sensitive, exposed root surfaces caused by gum recession.
Porcelain Veneers: Veneers are thin custom-made, tooth-colored shells
that are bonded onto the fronts of teeth to create a beautiful individual
smile. They can help restore or camouflage damaged, discolored, poorly
shaped, or misaligned teeth. Unlike crowns, veneers require minimal tooth
structure to be removed from the surface of the tooth.
Porcelain & Gold Crowns (caps): A crown is a tooth-colored or gold, custom-made
covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original
shape and size. Crowns protect and strengthen teeth that cannot be restored
with fillings or other types of restorations. They are ideal for teeth that
have large, fractured or broken fillings and also for those that are badly
decayed.
Dental Implants: Dental implants are artificial roots that are
surgically placed into the jaw to replace one or more missing
teeth. Porcelain crowns, bridges, and dentures can be made specifically to
fit and attach to implants, giving a patient a strong, stable, and durable
solution to removable dental appliances. The success rate with dental implants
is over 98%.
Orthodontics: Less visible and more effective brackets and wires are
making straightening teeth with orthodontics much more appealing to adult
patients. Also, in some cases, teeth may be straightened with custom-made,
clear, removable aligners that require no braces.
Thanks to the advances in modern dentistry, cosmetic treatments can make
a difference in making your smile shine!
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Porcelain veneers are very thin shells of tooth-shaped porcelain that are
individually crafted to cover the fronts of teeth. They are very durable
and will not stain, making them a very popular solution for those seeking
to restore or enhance the beauty of their smile.
Veneers may be used to restore or correct the following dental conditions:
Severely discolored or stained teeth
Unwanted or uneven spaces
Worn or chipped teeth
Slight tooth crowding
Misshapen teeth
Teeth that are too small or large
Getting veneers usually requires two visits. Veneers are created from an
impression (mold) of your teeth that is then sent to a professional dental
laboratory where each veneer is custom-made (for shape and color) for your
individual smile.
The teeth are prepared by buffing and
shaping the front surface of the teeth to allow for the small thickness
of veneers. The veneers are carefully fitted and bonded onto the tooth
surface with special bonding cements and occasionally a specialized light
may be used to harden and set the bond.
Veneers are an excellent dental treatment that can dramatically improve
your teeth and give you a natural, beautiful smile.
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Since teeth whitening has now become the number one aesthetic concern of many
patients, there are many products and methods available to achieve a brighter
smile.
Professional teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental
treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel, and is an ideal
way to enhance the beauty of your smile. Over-the-counter products are also
available, but may not be approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
As we age, the outer layer of tooth enamel wears away, eventually revealing
a darker or yellow shade. The color of our teeth also comes from the inside
of the tooth, which may become darker over time. Smoking, drinking coffee,
tea, and wine may also contribute to tooth discoloration, making our teeth
yellow and dull. Sometimes, teeth can become discolored from taking certain
medications as a child, such as tetracycline. Excessive fluoridation
(fluorosis) during tooth development can also cause teeth to become
discolored.
It's important to have your teeth evaluated by your dentist to determine
if you're a good candidate for bleaching. Occasionally, tetracycline
and fluorosis stains are difficult to bleach and your dentist may offer
other options, such as veneers or crowns to cover up such stains. Since
teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is also important
to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. before bleaching
begins. Once the bleaching is done, your dentist can match the new
restorations to the shade of the newly whitened teeth. This is an important
consideration that shouldn't be overlooked by the patient.
Since teeth whitening is not permanent, a touch-up may be needed every
several years to keep your smile looking bright.
The most widely used professional teeth whitening systems:
Home teeth whitening systems: At home products usually come in a
gel form that is placed in a custom-fitted mouthguard (tray), created from
a mold of your teeth. The trays are worn just several minutes per day
until the desired whitening is achieved, typically
in 10 to 14 days. It is important not to skip days during this process.
Some patients may experience tooth sensitivity after having their teeth
whitened. This sensation is temporary and subsides shortly after you
complete the bleaching process, usually within a few days to one week.
Teeth whitening can be very effective and can give you a brighter,
whiter, more confident smile!
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Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be an unpleasant and embarrassing
condition. Many of us may not realize that we have bad breath, but
everyone has it from time to time, especially in the morning.
There are various reasons one may have bad breath, but in healthy people,
the major reason is due to microbial deposits on the tongue, especially
the back of the tongue. Some studies have shown that simply brushing the
tongue reduced bad breath by as much as 70 percent.
What may cause bad breath?
Sleeping - Saliva flow nearly stops while asleep and its reduced cleansing action allows bacteria to grow, causing bad breath.Certain foods - Garlic, onions, etc. Foods containing odor-causing compounds enter the blood stream where they are transferred to the lungs and exhaled.Poor oral hygiene - Food particles remaining in the mouth promote bacterial growth.Periodontal (gum) disease - Colonies of bacteria and food debris residing under inflamed gums.Dental cavities and improperly fitted dental appliances - may also contribute to bad breath.Dry mouth (Xerostomia) - May be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous mouth breathing.Tobacco products - may dry the mouth, causing bad breath.Dieting - Certain chemicals called ketones are released in the breath as the body burns fat.Dehydration, hunger, and missed meals - Drinking water and chewing food increases saliva flow and washes bacteria away.Certain medical conditions and illnesses - Diabetes, liver and kidney problems, chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia are several conditions that may contribute to bad breath.
Keeping a record of what you eat may help identify the cause of bad
breath. Also, review your current medications, recent surgeries, or
illnesses with your dentist.
What can I do to prevent bad breath?
Practice good oral hygiene - Brush at least twice a day with an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste and toothbrush. Floss daily to remove food debris and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gumline. Brush or use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue and reach the back areas. If you wear dentures or removable bridges, clean them thoroughly and place them back in your mouth each morning.See your dentist regularly - Get a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. If you have or have had periodontal disease, your dentist will recommend more frequent visits.Eliminate tobacco products - Ask your dentist what they recommend to help break the habit.Drink water frequently - Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria.Use mouthwash - Some over-the-counter products only provide a temporary solution to mask unpleasant mouth odor. Ask your dentist about antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate bad breath, but also kill the germs that cause the problem.
In most cases, your dentist can treat the cause of bad breath. If it is
determined that your mouth is healthy, but bad breath is persistent, your
dentist may refer you to your physician to determine the cause of the odor
and an appropriate treatment plan.
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Brushing and flossing help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental
disease. Plaque is a film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks
to the teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque convert certain food particles
into acids that cause tooth decay. Also, if plaque is not removed, it turns
into calculus (tartar). If plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin
to destroy the gums and bone, causing periodontal (gum) disease.
Plaque formation and growth is continuous and can only be controlled by
regular brushing, flossing, and the use of other dental aids.
Toothbrushing - Brush your teeth at least twice a day
Brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums, gently using a small, circular
motion, ensuring that you always feel the bristles on the gums.
Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth.
Use the tip of the brush head to clean the inside front teeth.
Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Electric toothbrushes are also recommended. They are easy to use and can
remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush
on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job.
Flossing - Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth
and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces,
it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the
gums, teeth, and bone.
Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your
middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the
floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
Curve the floss into a "C" shape around each tooth and under
the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of
each tooth.
Flossing before going to bed is the ideal time. Think about it, that is 1/3
of your life that your teeth are optimally clean!
Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.
Rinsing - It is important to rinse your mouth with water after
brushing, and also after meals if you are unable to brush. If you are
using an over-the-counter product for rinsing, it's a good idea to consult
with your dentist or dental hygienist on its appropriateness for you.
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Over the years there has been some concern as to the safety of amalgam
(silver) fillings. An amalgam is a blend of copper, silver, tin and zinc,
bound by elemental mercury. Dentists have used this blended metal to fill
teeth for more than 100 years. The controversy is due to claims that the
exposure to the vapor and minute particles from the mercury can cause a
variety of health problems.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), up to 76% of dentists
use silver containing mercury to fill teeth. The ADA also states that
silver fillings are safe and that studies have failed to find any link
between silver containing mercury and any medical disorder.
The general consensus is that amalgam (silver) fillings are safe. Along
with the ADA's position, the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the World
Health Organization, the FDA, and others support the use of silver fillings
as safe, durable, and cost effective. The U.S. Public Health Service says
that the only reason not to use silver fillings is when a patient has an
allergy to any component of this type of filling. The ADA has had fewer
than 100 reported incidents of an allergy to components of silver fillings,
and this is out of countless millions of silver fillings over the decades.
Although studies indicate that there are no measurable health risks to
patients who have silver fillings, we do know that mercury is a toxic material
when we are exposed at high, unsafe levels. For instance, we have been warned
to limit the consumption of certain types of fish that carry high levels of
mercury in them. However, with respect to amalgam fillings, the ADA maintains
that when the mercury combines with the other components of the filling, it
becomes an inactive substance that is safe.
It is interesting to note that populations in third world countries, who typically
have no access to silver fillings, many times have higher mercury levels in their
systems then many Americans.
There are numerous options to silver fillings, including composite
(tooth-colored), porcelain, and gold fillings. We encourage you to discuss
these options with your dentist so you can determine which is the best option
for you.
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You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, though
your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend more frequent visits.
Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing dental
problems and maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. At these visits,
your teeth are cleaned and checked for cavities. Additionally, there are
many other things that are checked and monitored to help detect, prevent,
and maintain your dental health. These include:
Medical history review: Knowing the status of any current medical
conditions, new medications, and illnesses, gives us insight to your
overall health and also your dental health.Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection
of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth
and root positions.Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat,
tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for
any signs of periodontal disease.Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for
decay with special dental instruments.Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc. Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been
left on the tooth for sometime and is now firmly attached to the tooth
surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line, and can only be
removed with special dental instruments.Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms
on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris,
and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the
gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!Teeth polishing: Removes stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed
during toothbrushing and scaling.Oral hygiene recommendations: Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as
needed (electric dental toothbrushes, special cleaning aids, fluorides,
rinses, etc.).Review dietary habits: Your eating habits play a very important role in
your dental health.
As you can see, a good dental exam and cleaning involves quite a lot more
than just checking for cavities and polishing your teeth. We are committed
to providing you with the best possible care, and to do so will require
regular check-ups and cleanings.
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Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don't know it! Most
people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the
early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort, it is
possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms. Having
regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important and
will help detect if periodontal problems exist.
Periodontal disease begins when plaque, a sticky, colorless, film of
bacteria, food debris, and saliva, is left on the teeth and gums. The
bacteria produce toxins (acids) that inflame the gums and slowly destroy
the bone. Brushing and flossing regularly and properly will ensure that
plaque is not left behind to do its damage.
Other than poor oral hygiene, there are several other factors that may
increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:
Smoking or chewing tobacco - Tobacco users are more likely than nonusers
to form plaque and tartar on their teeth.Certain tooth or appliance conditions - Bridges that no longer fit
properly, crowded teeth, or defective fillings that may trap plaque and
bacteria. Many medications - Steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure meds,
oral contraceptives. Some medications have side affects that reduce
saliva, making the mouth dry and plaque easier to adhere to the teeth and
gums.Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and puberty - Can cause changes in
hormone levels, causing gum tissue to become more sensitive to bacteria
toxins.Systemic diseases - Diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV / AIDS, etc.Genetics may play role - Some patients may be predisposed to a more
aggressive type of periodontitis. Patients with a family history of
tooth loss should pay particular attention to their gums.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Red and puffy gums - Gums should never be red or swollen.Bleeding gums - Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously
or use dental floss.Persistent bad breath - Caused by bacteria in the mouth.New spacing between teeth - Caused by bone loss.Loose teeth - Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers
(fibers that support the tooth to the bone).Pus around the teeth and gums - Sign that there is an infection present.Receding gums - Loss of gum around a tooth.Tenderness or Discomfort - Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of
developing periodontal disease.
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Brushing our teeth removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from all
tooth surfaces, except
Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the
gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque
colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.
Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a
growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria
produce toxins (acids) that cause cavities and irritate and inflame the
gums. Also, when plaque is not removed above and below the gumline, it
hardens and turns into calculus (tartar). This will further irritate and
inflame the gums and also slowly destroy the bone. This is the beginning
of periodontal disease.
How to floss properly:
Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your
middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the
floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
Curve the floss into a "C" shape around each tooth and under
the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of
each tooth.
Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional
floss.
Daily flossing will help you keep a healthy, beautiful smile for life!
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The mouth should not be rinsed for at least 24 hours after surgery
or until bleeding has completely stopped . After that gentle rinsing
should be done every 4 hours with warm salt water (one-half teaspoonful of salt
to a full glass of warm water).An ice bag should be applied to the face directly over the site of the
wound for the first twelve hours following surgery. At 20 minute intervals
the ice bag should be removed for 15 minutes. This will help to control swelling.Heat should be applied to the face on the day following surgery. At
15 minute intervals, warm moist heat should be removed for 15 minutes.Moderate bleeding can be controlled by applying sterile gauze rolled
in a ball to the bleeding site and biting firmly on it. Firm pressure
should be maintained to the bleeding site for at least 40 minutes. If bleeding
persists the process should be repeated or a moistened tea bag wrapped in a
single fold of gauze may be applied over the surgical area with moderate
pressure. Stay in a quiet, upright position, and the constant application of
firm pressure over the wound and cold applied to the side of the face will
control most bleeding.For the control of pain , take two pain tablets every three hours. This
should be started at the onset of even slight pain. If pain is not completely
controlled by these tablets, fill the prescription for the stronger pain
medication or call this office.Bed rest for at least 24 hours after extensive oral surgical procedures
will keep pain, swelling and bleeding to a minimum.Diet is regulated by the comfort of chewing. Liquids should always be taken
freely, but do not drink through a straw . If you are a smoker, do not
smoke for at least 24 hours following surgery.
The following anticipated Post-Operative conditions should cause no concern:
Slight oozing of blood for several hours.
Swelling which follows surgery within the first 24 hours.
Moderate discomfort which can be controlled by instruction number 5.
Discoloration of the skin of the face on the side of the surgery.
A slightly elevated temperature within the first 24 hours.
The office or doctor's residence should be contacted should any of the following
complications arise:
Profuse uncontrollable bleeding.
Severe uncontrollable pain.
Swelling which has its initial onset after the first 48 hours following surgery.
A markedly elevated temperature.
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