What are Veneers?
If your teeth are cracked, broken, or if they are severely stained veneers are a viable option for you. Veneers are made from beautiful and durable porcelain and can completely transform the look of your smile. Your cosmetic dentist can work with you to find the right size and shade veneers to reveal your brightest and most confident smile ever.
Your dentist will work with you to find a shade veneer that will best suit you. It’s important not to go overly white, if your teeth are normally not that white because this will look unnatural. Match your veneers to remaining, untouched teeth in your mouth. When your veneers are applied to your teeth, a few of your teeth may require a root canal, to deaden the nerve, but this is not necessary in every case. Your dentist will take an impression of your mouth to be sure the veneers will properly fit, upon which your custom veneers will be ordered. Then, your bright veneers will be applied to your teeth using specialized cement. Your dentist will take extreme care to make sure your regular bite is intact, and that the veneers do not affect the rest of your mouth.
After your veneers are applied, your teeth will function normally, and you can care for them the same as you would your original teeth. Keep in mind that porcelain veneers can stain the same way regular teeth can, so acidic and deep colored food and beverages like soda, coffee and wine can stain veneers as they would regular teeth. Tooth grinding can also affect the integrity of veneers, so your dentist may recommend a night guard to prevent any unnecessary damage. Take care of your veneers and enjoy a confident and dazzling smile you will love.
Tooth Stains
Everyone is given a set of healthy, white teeth when they are born. However, over time our teeth can endure stains that make many of us feel self-conscious. Even if we take proper care of our mouths, stains can occur over time. Most of us aren’t aware of the fact that a lot of things we eat and a lot of the things we put in our mouths cause stains.
Smoking is the number one culprit of stained teeth. Other culprits include red wine, coffee and soda. However, many other foods like soy sauce, curry, and even fruits like blueberries can cause stains on our teeth if ingested over time, or if eaten without proper after care. Aging is another major cause of teeth stains. Over time, wear can cause the enamel to thin, and this can reveal an underlying layer of yellow colored dentin to show through.
While we can avoid a few of these things to keep our teeth clean and white, our mouths still may endure wear and tear. Many people choose to use an over the counter teeth whitening agent, or a whitening toothpaste. For minor to moderate stains, these products work well. For more persistent stains, you can enlist the help of your dentist. Stronger whitening products can be used under the supervision of your dentist, and these are often called cosmetic cleanings. In as little as thirty minutes you can leave your dentist’s office with a clean and white smile sure to impress. Avoid staining your teeth whenever possible, by avoiding acidic beverages and smoking, and by cleaning your teeth properly on a daily basis. If you do have stains on your teeth, talk to your dentist about the best way to remove them for a brighter smile.
Root Canals
A root canal is a common dental procedure that should not be feared. Every certified dentist performs countless root canals, and they are considered a valuable way to preserve a tooth in the event of extensive damage. There are many events that can cause the need for a root canal.
A root canal is used when a tooth is badly damage or has endured a lot of decay. If you require a root canal, the nerve and “pulp” of a specific tooth is removed, and the inside of the tooth is completely cleaned out and sealed off. If not properly treated this tissue can become infected. Contrary to what many think, the nerve of the tooth is not necessarily vital to the overall health and function of the tooth. In fact, removing the tissue will not disrupt the daily function of the tooth at all. You may need a root canal if the tissue and pulp begins to break down, because this can cause bacteria to build up inside the tooth. The result is often an abscessed tooth, which is painful and potentially harmful. In most cases, a root canal is necessary if the tooth is severely decayed, there have been multiple dental procedures on the same tooth, or the tooth has been cracked and chipped.
A root canal is a routine procedure that may require multiple visits to your dentist. A local anesthetic will be administered and you will likely feel no discomfort. If you have any questions about your root canal, it’s important to speak with your dentist before the procedure is performed. A root canal procedure is common enough that it is nothing to fear. In some cases, trauma to the face can make a root canal necessary. However, regular dental cleanings from your dentist, as well as proper personal dental hygiene can prevent the need for a root canal, making it very important to care for your teeth.
What is a Cavity?
We’ve all heard of cavities, and understand we should avoid getting cavities at all costs. Preventative measures are the best ways to avoid cavities, and dentists explain this to patients of all ages. Yet, few of us stop to ask, what exactly is a cavity?
A cavity happens when a tooth breaks down and decays. Cavities are holes that can grown in a tooth, and can get bigger and deeper over time. Without proper brushing and flossing, plaque can build up in your teeth over time. This sticky substance carries germs that lead to tooth decay and bacteria. Bacteria can make acid in your mouth, and the acid is what eats away at the outer layers of your teeth. Without proper dental care and regular visits to your dentist this, “eating away,” can create a hole in your tooth. Overtime, decay and serious damage can result and this can lead to a cavity. If you notice extreme sensitivity in your teeth, you may have a cavity. Upon making an appointment with your dentist, they will examine your teeth and determine whether or not you have a cavity.
If you do have a cavity, you may have to have some dental work done. Your dentist will administer an anesthetic and will drill into your tooth to remove the entire rotted area. Then your tooth will be filled with silver, porcelain, gold, or an alternative material. Your dentist will discuss any and all procedures with you before moving forward with filling your tooth. Preventative dental care is the best way to avoid cavities, but often they can still occur. Visit your dentist regularly to detect a cavity before it creates a serious problem inside your mouth. Discuss any and all pain and discomfort inside your mouth to detect a cavity for optimum treatment by your trusted dentist.