Dental Implants FAQs
Dental implants are an increasingly popular option for replacing missing teeth. Learn more about implant dentistry by reviewing the following frequently asked questions.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots capped by artificial teeth that can be permanently implanted in the mouth to replacing one or more missing teeth.
How are they placed?
Dental implants are placed through a two-step procedure. First, the metal post which serves as the root of the replacement tooth is surgically implanted into the patient's jawbone. After a period of healing, the post is topped with a natural-looking replacement tooth.
Can you eat normally with dental implants?
Dental implants function just like normal teeth. After healing is complete, you should be able to eat and speak as you normally do, and your dental implants do not require any special maintenance beyond your normal dental care routine.
What about the results?
Because dental implants offer a natural-looking and highly-functional replacement for missing teeth, most patients are extremely pleased with the results. Additionally, most patients find that dental implants are extremely durable and low-maintenance, providing a secure and convenient tooth replacement choice.
For more information about dental implants or other cosmetic dentistry options, contact our cosmetic dentist today to schedule an appointment.
Smile Makeover Treatments
There are many people who wish that their smile was more attractive. Lots of different factors can affect the way your teeth look, whether it is discoloration from smoking, accidents that have caused teeth to become chipped or broken, tooth decay caused by neglect or improper care, or simply having teeth that are misaligned or crooked. Whatever the problem may be, it’s important to know that there are a number of different procedures that can be performed to achieve the smile that you wish you had or even get back the smile that you once had before. A smile makeover is exactly the type of treatment that you may be seeking.
Treatment Planning
Smile makeovers involve one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures which can consist of many different treatments depending on your specific concerns. After you have sat down with your dentist and discussed what it is that you would like to change about your teeth, he or she can begin to assess which types of procedures will be used to help you achieve the end result you are happy with. This stage of your treatment planning will ensure that your smile makeover addresses your individual goals and any underlying dental health needs which may be affecting your smile.
Treatment Options
Smile makeovers can include treatment options that work to restore or improve both the appearance and functionality of your smile. If dental health issues are a concern, your dentist will first work to address this need before moving on to cosmetic issues. Teeth whitening, dental implants, porcelain veneers, composite bonding, and dental bridges and crowns are examples of some of the different types of procedures that dentists may use to help you with your smile makeover based on your specific concerns and needs. With a smile makeover, the goal is to create a healthy, attractive smile.
Enhancing Your Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry
If you have ever wanted that movie star smile, then you have probably looked into a smile makeover to fix crooked teeth and whiten stained teeth. It may seem like a simple procedure, but getting a smile makeover takes time, and occasionally has a recovery time that is needed after oral surgery procedures.
Smile Makeover Treatments
Smile makeovers for your mouth aren’t always just a single cosmetic or restorative dentistry procedure. If you choose a comprehensive smile makeover, your dentist may decide that several procedures are best for your teeth. Implant dentistry, teeth whitening, porcelain dental veneers, and other treatments may be suited to your needs. Whatever option you want, the best way to decide which is best for you is to consult your dentist to discuss your individual goals and needs.
Maintaining Your Oral Health
In addition to improving the appearance of your smile, a smile makeover can address a variety of oral health needs to restore the underlying condition of your teeth and gums. If missing or damaged teeth or gum conditions are a concern, your smile makeover treatment plan will first work to address these needs. Then, your cosmetic dentist will outline a procedure for restoring the beauty of your smile. This comprehensive approach to your smile makeover will ensure healthy and lasting results.
For more information about the treatments involved in a smile makeover, contact our cosmetic dentistry center in Staten Island to schedule a private consultation.
Porcelain Dental Veneers FAQs
If you’re considering porcelain veneers, you probably have many of the same questions as other patients in your situation. Review the list of frequently asked questions below to learn more about this popular cosmetic dentistry procedure.
Am I a good candidate for porcelain veneers?
Only your dentist can determine if you are a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Generally, your natural teeth and gums should be healthy and all underlying problems such as gingivitis and existing cavities should be addressed. However, porcelain veneers have the ability to create a straighter, whiter, and more uniform smile that is free from cracked or chipped teeth and can last nearly forever with correct after-care.
How are porcelain veneers attached to my teeth?
Your cosmetic dentistry professional will schedule a consultation and take pictures and measurements of your teeth. Then, the dentist will remove the outermost layer of your natural enamel to allow for the best adherence of the veneers. Temporary veneers will be attached while your customized veneers are created in a dental lab, which the dentist will then attach permanently onto the surfaces of your teeth at your final appointment.
How long will my results last?
If you take proper care of your teeth with good oral hygiene and regular visits to your cosmetic dentist, there is no reason your veneers can’t last as long as your natural teeth do. Of course, in the rare case that a veneer is damaged, you will only need to replace the affected porcelain veneer so you can maintain the attractive, healthy appearance of your smile.
Contact an experienced cosmetic dentist to learn more about how porcelain dental veneers can help you achieve a healthy, attractive, and natural-looking smile.
Understanding Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments
- Teeth Whitening – Perhaps one of the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments, teeth whitening, also called teeth bleaching, can brighten teeth that have been discolored from smoking, food, drinks, and poor oral hygiene. Professional teeth whitening procedures can be completed in about an hour and can yield dramatic results.
- Dental Veneers – Both composite and porcelain veneers are laminates that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to repair chips and cracks, to create a straighter smile, to conceal gaps in teeth, and to brighten a smile.
- Dental Implants – Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. Unlike dentures, dental implants replace the root of the missing tooth through a metal rod implanted in the jaw. Implant dentistry treatments not only improve appearance but also help maintain bite alignment by preventing other teeth from shifting.
- Tooth-colored fillings – Tooth-colored fillings are made from a natural-looking composite that matches the color of the teeth. Unlike silver or mercury fillings, tooth-colored fillings are harder to detect.
- Dental Bonding – Dental bonding is a less-expensive alternative to porcelain veneers. The procedure is used to treat many of the same smile concerns as dental veneers through the application of a dental bonding material.