Hi! Welcome to the Harris Dental dental blog where we take the time to answer dental questions. Today we are focusing on fabulous veneers, which are used extensively in cosmetic dentistry.
Dental veneers (also called laminates) are custom-made to permanently cover the front part of one or more teeth. Wafer-thin, super-strong veneers can remedy many cosmetic issues such as:
1. Chips 2. Cracks 3. Stains 4. Teeth that are misshapen 5. Teeth that are too short 6. Teeth that are misaligned 7. Gaps between teeth
The first step in the veneer process is to make a model of your teeth. Then, a skilled technician will use the model to fabricate the laminates. In some veneer procedures, a small amount of the enamel from the face of the tooth has to be removed. Today’s veneer process leaves most of your healthy tooth structure.
Tooth whitening has become one of the most popular dental procedures in Arizona. It seems that everyone is whitening their teeth to help their smiles look younger and brighter. Many men and women are turning to over-the-counter solutions to brighten their teeth, however, there can be disadvantages to this approach.
Here is some basic advice on tooth whitening from Harris Dental:
First, we encourage you to visit our office before starting a tooth whitening system. Dr. Harris at Harris Dental can help you determine whether your teeth can be whitened safely and effectively. We can also recommend tooth whitening solutions that will work best for you. There are many pitfalls to be aware of when whitening your teeth.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products will provide varying degrees of whitening. If used incorrectly, they can lead to problems including tooth sensitivity, over-whitening, damage to your tooth enamel, and uneven coloration. Whitening too much can even have a reverse effect, making your teeth look gray.
Avoid Problems By Seeing Your Dentist First
Most tooth whitening product manufacturers recommend that you visit your dentist if things go wrong with your tooth whitening protocol. We recommend you begin with the patient-oriented professionals at Harris Dental to prevent tooth whitening problems.
Our patient-oriented is available to discuss tooth-whitening systems and check your teeth to make sure you will get the best possible tooth-whitening results.
If you will be leaving on an extended trip, make sure it won’t interfere with any dental needs.
It’s always a good idea to have a checkup with your dentist prior to leaving on long vacations, especially if your trip is taking you to developing areas without adequate dental care options. This quick exam will help you be sure that your mouth is ready to travel.
Are You Having Dental Work Prior to Your Trip?
Another important consideration; if you have any dental procedures scheduled before you leave, discuss them with your dentist. Much dental care is actually surgical procedures. This means that your body will need more time to heal than you may realize.
Oral Surgery and Air Travel
Also, if you’re leaving by plane, you should be aware that changes in cabin pressure may cause tooth pain or discomfort for individuals who have just had oral surgery.
In addition, make sure you are aware of any necessary follow-up appointments with your dentist or orthodontist before you schedule a vacation.
Dental Tips for Traveling
Many men and women put their toothbrushes in plastic containers for traveling. If your container isn’t ventilated, be sure to give your toothbrush some air every day. If it never dries out, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
If you don’t trust water safety at your hotel or other accommodations, you will probably buy bottled water to drink. If that’s the case, use bottled water to brush your teeth. If the tap water is contaminated, you don’t want it in your mouth.
Also, stock up on sugarless or Xylitol gum in case you find yourself in a situation where you can’t brush your teeth. Chewing gum stimulates saliva which neutralizes the acid in your mouth.
Hello, and welcome to our Harris Dental cosmetic dentistry blog. Today we are taking the time to answer a common question that many dental patients have. The question is, “What exactly are veneers and how are they used in cosmetic dentistry?”
Porcelain Veneers Give Your Teeth a Makeover
Veneers are thin shells made from durable, translucent porcelain or composite resin. They are custom-made for each patient and are used to improve the appearance of teeth. Unlike a dental crown which covers the entire visible portion of a tooth, a veneer covers just the front part of the tooth. They are generally used to correct teeth that have been chipped, stained, decayed, or that are slightly crooked.
Veneers are Custom Made for Your Teeth
Veneers are not one-size-fits-all. Like a porcelain crown, each veneer is custom-made for your tooth. To design your veneer, your dentist will first make a model of your teeth. Next, a dental technician will use the model to fabricate the veneers, so you can be sure of a custom fit.
Since a minuscule layer of the enamel on the tooth has to be removed so the veneer can be attached, this dental service is usually irreversible.
Harris Dental Cosmetic Dentistry
Harris Dental offers all the care you need to obtain a stunningly beautiful smile. Ask us about gum contouring, smile redesigns, teeth whitening, and invisible braces.
Dental Implants Replace the Whole Tooth
Perhaps you have an extracted tooth. The gold standard in tooth replacement is no longer a dental bridge. A replaces both the root and crown of the missing tooth. It doesn’t require grinding down adjacent teeth to attach a dental bridge.
This is the Year for a Stunning New Smile
If you are looking for a dentist with expertise in creating beautiful smiles, give Harris Dental a call. Dr. Harris has been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry since 1979. We look forward to meeting you and discussing your dental needs and goals.
Dental implants are an investment in a better lifestyle
Dental implants aren’t cheap. We understand that. But you get so much more than a titanium post and porcelain crown or denture.
You get the ability to chew steak and raw vegetables. You gain self-confidence. You preserve the shape of your face. You prevent your teeth from shifting after an extraction. You avoid embarrassing dentures slipping around in your mouth.
Permanent dental implants are a safe, mainstream dental procedure
In healthy patients who are good candidates for the treatment, teeth implants have a success rate of around 98%. They have been used for decades.
Are you contemplating getting a permanent tooth implant? At Harris Dental, we only recommend surgery for people who are good candidates. This helps us maintain a nearly 100% success rate.
According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, 3 million Americans have received implants.
If you get a permanent tooth implant this year, it could last the rest of your life.
Dental implant surgery has very little pain and patients usually recover rapidly
Our dental implant patients are generally surprised after they get their implants placed.
“Wow! That was no more painful than a filling.”
“Have you finished already? I didn’t even feel it.”
“That was oral surgery? It only took a few minutes.”
After dental implant surgery, you may experience:
Minimal pain at the implant site
Minimal bleeding
Swelling and/or bruising of the gums and cheeks
These effects should subside after a few days. Ibuprofen usually takes care of the pain. Ice packs used on the outside of the face can assuage swelling. Call our office if these symptoms persist.
At Harris Dental, we want to share trustworthy information about teeth implants. There are too many myths floating around. It’s sad that incorrect information can prevent people with missing teeth from improving their lives with implants.
If you have questions about dental implant procedures, get your answers from an expert. Dr. Harris has been providing the highest quality dental service since 1979.
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