TEETH WHITENING

Teeth can be whitened three to four shades lighter using a carbamide peroxide gel without causing any damage to the teeth. This method relies on the ability of the gel to oxidize stains which build up from years of exposure to coffee, tea, smoking, soft drinks, and even chocolate! If the teeth are discolored from early exposure to tetracycline, they can be whitened also. The custom-fitting tray and quality of the gel are what differentiates a professional kit from those available over-the-counter.

If the teeth need to be slightly longer, straighter, or have spaces between them, thin porcelain veneers can be made to accomplish the desired effect. These veneers are only 1/2 millimeter thick, which means that a minimal amount of enamel is removed to make room for the veneer. The porcelain used allows us to create a restoration which is indistinguishable from natural tooth structure. Extremely strong adhesives bond the veneer to the teeth and are meant to be permanent restorations.

Dental crowns, also known as caps, are used to restore broken, cracked or fractured teeth. They may also be recommended for teeth that have large or multiple fillings that are at high risk for fracture, or for severely worn teeth. Crowns reinforce these damaged teeth, rendering them resistant to injury.

Crowns can also be highly esthetic, and can enhance a person’s smile.

Full dentures are meant for patients who have lost all of their teeth. Specially molded dentures sit over the gums and fit the specific contours of the patient’s mouth. Full dentures aid chewing, improve speech, and help to keep the mouth and surrounding facial area in correct alignment. Thankfully, modern advances have made it almost impossible for the average person to differentiate between full dentures and natural teeth. For new denture wearers, teeth can be extracted and new dentures delivered the same day; however there would be some preliminary impressions at a separate visit.

For some people, removable partial dentures are the most suitable option available for replacement of absent teeth. Partial dentures, which are kept in place with metal or tooth-colored clasps, aid chewing, prevent sagging of the cheeks and lips, and improve speech. Modern advances have made it almost impossible for the average person to differentiate between dentures and natural teeth.

Wisdom tooth extraction is a normal part of growing up. Most people have their wisdom teeth extracted at some point, usually in their late teens or early twenties. In most cases, wisdom teeth are taken out to prevent overcrowding and maintain optimal tooth and gum health. We know that many young adults have fears associated with having their wisdom teeth extracted and we refer some of our patients to excellent oral surgeons for sedation.

Some teeth which have had large cavities or extensive restoration may require root canal therapy. Root canal therapy typically becomes necessary when the “pulp” of the tooth becomes inflamed or infected. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels which provide nutrients to the tooth. During root canal therapy, the damaged pulp is removed, and replaced with a sealing material. The tooth may then be restored with a crown. Root canal therapy has a high long term success rate when combined with proper restorative methods.

Implants are used to replace missing teeth or to help give stability to dentures or partials. Implants are titanium posts which are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Once the implant has become integrated into the bone, crowns or dentures are then made to fit on the implant to provide full tooth function. The process from extraction, implant placement, final restoration can take between 6-9 months.

Also known as a night guard or occlusal guard, this is a removalable appliance worn at night to keep the upper and lower teeth apart to prevent wear of the teeth. It can also be used to allieviate tension to the TMJ or jaw joint. The guards we use in our office are custom made for you, providing a better fit than over the counter devices.

This is a custom made appliance which opens the airway so a patient can breathe better during sleep. Many patients find this removable appliance effective in reducing snoring.