Having a smile you feel confident about is so important in life. Unfortunately, those with underbites often feel self-conscious and discouraged which prompts them to seek treatment from their dentist.
Any patient dealing with this type of misaligned bite wants a solution that will not draw more attention to their mouth – which makes the nearly invisible Invisalign a great option.
But can Invisalign fix an underbite? Let’s find out.
Do You Have an Underbite?
Simply put, a patient has an underbite when their lower jaw extends out past their upper jaw. While it is not always the case, some patients have an underbite that is very noticeable.
Having any misaligned bite like an underbite can lead to some issues that may or may not be disruptive to your life, including:
- Difficult eating/chewing
- Speech issues
- Excessive wear
- Self-esteem/confidence issues
Underbites may be caused by genetics, but a lot of times there are contributing factors that can be prevented, such as thumb-sucking and mouth breathing.
How is an Underbite Treated
For many patients, underbites can be treated easily. This often involves the use of traditional braces, crowns, or veneers. And, much like braces, Invisalign has also proven itself to be a great option for treatment when it comes to correcting misalignments.
With the help of these treatments, underbites can often be corrected quickly and surgery can be avoided.
Invisalign Treatment for Underbites
Even though its primary purpose is to straighten teeth, Invisalign can transform smiles and is an effective treatment for all types of misaligned bites, gaps, and crooked teeth – including underbites.
Using clear aligners that are custom-made for you, the teeth will slowly begin to move into a position that will correct the underbite. It is really an easy, removable form of treatment.
Depending on the severity, it may take Invisalign several weeks – or several months – of applying pressure to the teeth to get them where they need to go. The important part is that you wear them as much as possible, about 20 to 22 hours every single day – the more the better.
It should be noted that Invisalign treatment for underbites will not work for everyone. For underbites that are severe sometimes alternative treatments are required.
Leaving an Underbite Untreated
Many patients seek treatment for underbites due to the way in which it impacts their appearance. And while this can truly take a toll on the patient’s level of self-confidence, an underbite requires treatment for more than just aesthetic purposes.
Leaving an underbite untreated could result in quite a few complications. For instance, it may lead to toothaches, chronic pain, bad breath, TMJ disorders, earaches, sleep apnea, cavities, and more.
Underbite Treatment with Invisalign
If you are interested in Invisalign treatment for your underbite, then the dental team at Smiles on the Upper West Side can help.
Remember that not every underbite can be treated with Invisalign. Contact us today at 212-222-5225 to schedule an appointment.
We are here to transform your smile using the best treatment available.
Invisalign is an excellent solution to many orthodontic problems. In addition to straightening teeth, it can fix minor to moderate dental bite issues, including overbites.
What Is an Overbite?
An overbite happens when the top front teeth stick out beyond the bottom front teeth. It is a common orthodontic condition that sometimes causes no ill effects but can lead to problems like gum disease, tooth decay, or jaw pain. If you or your older teen has an overbite, Invisalign can be a quick, discreet way to correct it. Medical studies indicate it is effective.
How Invisalign Corrects Overbites
Invisalign corrects overbites by gradually moving the teeth and jaw into the optimal position. Invisalign applies constant pressure that shifts the teeth as effectively as traditional metal braces.
Dentists sometimes use rubber bands or elastics with Invisalign treatment for overbites. The elastics’ targeted pressure helps shift the teeth and jaw into the proper positions. The dentist may use bonded resin to create “buttons” or attachment points on the teeth.
Advantages of Invisalign
Invisalign treatment has several advantages over braces:
- Faster in many cases, though overbites in adults with fully formed jaws may take longer to correct than in adolescents
- More discreet than braces
- More comfortable to wear
- Ability to eat most foods without the diet restrictions of braces
- Better oral health due to ease of removal and keeping teeth clean
Treating a mild to moderate overbite with Invisalign may be more difficult as the patient ages. For maximum benefit, don’t wait to get Invisalign. Correct your bite problem as soon as you can for the best results.
Patients should remember that traditional braces may work better in certain situations. If you have questions about whether Invisalign is appropriate in your case, call us for a consultation appointment.
Tips for Invisalign Success
To receive successful treatment with the Invisalign system, wear your aligners for 22 hours daily. Treatments may take significantly longer if you don’t wear your aligners for the required time. Remove them only to eat, drink, and care for your teeth.
Change your aligners on the prescribed day (usually every two weeks) and attend all planned dental appointments. Your dentist can then check the progress of your treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
Taking responsibility for your dental health requires discipline, but if you follow all of your dentist’s instructions, you will soon be free of your overbite and enjoy a healthier smile.
Call Smiles on the Upper West Side
Invisalign is an effective way to fix many orthodontic problems, including mild to moderate overbites. The system is discreet, comfortable, and sometimes even faster than braces.
To find out what Invisalign can do for your overbite and why you may prefer this system over traditional braces, call our NYC office at 212-222-5225.
Dental implants are beautiful, lifelike replacements for damaged or missing teeth. Many patients may believe the dental implant process is lengthy, with many appointments over several months. However, receiving an implant on the same day is possible.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a surgically placed dental appliance that looks and feels natural. Implants are unique because they bond with the jawbone, preserving its strength and providing a secure foundation for chewing and speaking.
Full Arch on 4 Implants
While many patients are familiar with single-tooth implants, our practice offers one-day full arch tooth replacements using four dental implants. Once you are comfortable, the dentist will place the four implant posts into your jawbone.
The dentist administers appropriate anesthesia. They open the gum to access the jawbone and place the posts. They screw the implant posts into the jaw, where they will integrate with the bone and provide a solid anchor. The dentist adds a stainless steel abutment that will anchor the artificial teeth.
The next step is placing a temporary fixed denture that will protect the implant sites and provide chewing ability. The temporary denture will remain until the four implant sites heal completely.
During this period, the restorative dentist will create your final dentures. They will be ideal replacements for your original teeth.
After the healing period, the dentist places your final total arch replacements.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
To be a successful candidate for implant-supported dentures, you need the following:
- Good oral and general health
- Adequate jawbone structure to support the implant
- Healthy gums free of untreated periodontal disease
If you do not have sufficient jawbone height for implants, you may be able to receive a dental bone graft. This procedure inserts a bone matrix material into your jawbone and allows it to stimulate natural bone growth. A bone graft adds a few months to the dental implant process.
Implants vs. Traditional Dentures
Implant-supported dentures have many advantages over the traditional type:
- No slippage when you eat or speak
- Preserves your natural jawbone structure, unlike traditional dentures, which may weaken it
- No food particles or plaque caught under the denture, which can lead to bad breath and gum problems
What Implant-Supported Dentures Can Do For You
You may feel self-conscious and unwilling to smile if you have problems with your teeth. Implant-supported dentures can give you a boost of confidence and restore your quality of life.
Call Smiles on the Upper West Side
If you need full arch dentures but want to know more about our implant-supported system, call our NYC office at 212-222-5225 for a consultation. We can help you understand your options and whether you can receive dental implants in one day.
After undergoing dental implant surgery, it is essential that you follow a healthy diet to ensure a successful healing process. Eating the right kinds of foods can help you maintain a healthy mouth and body while aiding in the recovery of your gums and dental implants.
This article will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the best healthy foods to eat after your surgery to ensure a full and speedy recovery. From nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables to lean proteins and dairy products, we will provide you with everything you need to know about healthy eating after dental implant surgery.
Overview of dental implant surgery
A dental implant is a surgical procedure that replaces an individual tooth by fusing an artificial tooth to the surrounding bone in your jaw. The artificial tooth is used to replace a missing tooth, bridge a gap between teeth, or hold a dental bridge in place.
Dental implant surgery is generally used when all other tooth replacement options have been exhausted. An infection-free environment is required for successful implant surgery, which may include the removal of all your existing teeth.
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth and are now considered one of the best methods for tooth replacement. However, like any surgical procedure, dental implant surgery does come with certain risks, such as excessive bleeding, infection, swelling, and nerve damage. Therefore, it is important to discuss these risks with your dentist prior to surgery.
Nutritional needs after dental implant surgery
After dental implant surgery, it is important to make sure you are getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet. A healthy diet after dental implant surgery will help your body recover more quickly and reduce the risk of infection following surgery.
An implant is a foreign object within your body and as such, your body’s immune system will recognize it as a pathogen and try to attack and remove it. This can cause inflammation and can be dangerous if not addressed quickly. To ensure a successful healing process, you need to make sure you are getting enough nutrients.
A healthy and balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy immune system and will help your body recover from dental implants more quickly. To maximize the benefits of a healthy diet, make sure you are getting enough of the following vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin A – Helps to keep your gums and teeth healthy, prevents oral infections, and boosts metabolism.
- Vitamin B – Necessary for the growth and repair of cells, helps fight infection, and is necessary for metabolism.
- Vitamin C – Boosts your immune system and is essential for tissue and bone formation.
- Vitamin D – Helps to prevent tooth decay and boosts the health of your bones and muscles.
- Iron – Necessary for energy production and tissue growth.
- Calcium – Helps to prevent osteoporosis, tooth decay, and gum disease.
By eating a healthy diet after dental implant surgery, you can help prevent the following health issues: Tooth decay – Eating healthy can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, particularly if you are consuming plenty of calcium and vitamin D.
- Osteoporosis – A diet rich in calcium can help prevent osteoporosis and can help you recover from dental implant surgery more quickly.
- Anemia – Eating a well-balanced diet that is rich in iron can help prevent anemia and boost your energy levels.
- Metabolic disorders – Eating healthy can help prevent metabolic disorders and reduce your risk of developing diabetes.
Healthy fruits and vegetables to consume
A healthy diet after dental implant surgery should include a variety of fruits and vegetables. These foods are rich in vitamins and minerals that your body needs to stay healthy. The following fruits and vegetables are particularly good after dental implant surgery:
- Bananas – Bananas are high in potassium and are excellent for boosting your energy levels. They are also rich in fiber, which is great for regulating your digestion.
- Apples – Apples are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and a number of other antioxidants that are great for your overall health.
- Broccoli – Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin C and is also rich in iron and calcium.
- Carrots – Carrots are high in beta-carotene, which is a great source of vitamin A. Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
- Oranges – Oranges are rich in vitamin C and are great for boosting your immune system.
Dairy products to add to your diet
Dairy products are essential to a healthy diet and are especially important after dental implant surgery. They are rich in calcium and vitamin D, which are important for maintaining a healthy mouth. The following dairy products are particularly beneficial after dental implant surgery:
- Yogurt – Yogurt is a great source of probiotics and calcium. It also contains vitamin B, which is important for repairing cells and fighting infection.
- Cheddar cheese – Cheddar cheese is a rich source of calcium and vitamin D. It is also rich in protein, which is useful for tissue growth and metabolism.
- Cottage cheese – Cottage cheese is rich in protein and is also a good source of calcium.
Lean proteins to include
After dental implant surgery, you want to consume plenty of lean proteins. These proteins are necessary for tissue growth and can help support your immune system. The following lean proteins are particularly beneficial after dental implant surgery:
- Eggs – Eggs are a great source of protein.
- White fish – White fish, such as cod, halibut, and sole, is full of protein and is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Tofu – Tofu is made from soybeans, which are rich in protein.
Foods to avoid after dental implant surgery
After dental implant surgery, these foods can cause damage to your gums and teeth, which can make the healing process more difficult.
- Hard or sticky foods – Hard or sticky foods, such as nuts, hard candies, and caramel, can cause damage to your teeth.
- Hot and spicy foods – Hot and spicy foods can irritate your gums, so it is best to avoid them after dental implant surgery.
- Sweet and carbonated drinks – Sweet and carbonated drinks can cause damage to your teeth and gums.
Dental Implants on the Upper West Side, NYC
Following a healthy diet after implant surgery will help you maintain a healthy mouth and body while aiding in the recovery of your gums and dental implants.
Although no dental procedure is right for everyone, most people can receive dental implants. Contact us at 212-222-5225 today to learn more about dental implant surgery and to book an appointment.
Deep cleaning of your teeth performed by your dentist or dental hygienist is a procedure known as scaling and root planing. It is a non-surgical treatment that removes plaque, tartar, and calculus that has developed beneath the gum line. The treatment may take a couple of hours, depending on the amount of plaque that needs to be removed. For that reason, deep cleanings are often spread out over two appointments.
Why Would My Dentist Recommend a Deep Cleaning?
If your dentist has told you that you need a deep cleaning it is because you have gum disease. Gum disease develops as the result of plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth below the gum line. Without treatment, gum disease can lead to infection, and ultimately periodontal disease and tooth loss.
Deep cleaning shares one major characteristic with regular dental cleaning: it removes plaque. However, during deep cleaning, the plaque is located near the root of the tooth, so the hygienist or dentist must use specialized tools to carefully remove the plaque without damaging the gum tissue. The teeth are first cleaned of plaque and tartar (scaling). Then the roots of the teeth must be smoothed (root planing) to promote reattachment of the gum to the tooth root.
What To Expect During Your Deep Cleaning
When you arrive for your deep cleaning, you’ll have a topical numbing agent applied to the gum surrounding the area to be treated. Then you will receive lidocaine to completely numb the area of the mouth to be treated.
The dentist or hygienist will then begin scraping plaque and tartar from the teeth, before smoothing the roots of the teeth. Your mouth will be treated one quadrant at a time. Each quadrant will undergo the same treatment.
Because a deep cleaning takes longer than a regular dental cleaning, some patients may grow tired of holding their mouths open. That’s why deep cleanings are often spread across two appointments. Other patients may prefer to have the entire treatment performed in a single visit.
Recovery from Dental Deep Cleaning: What To Expect
After your treatment, it is normal for your mouth to remain numb for a while. Do not eat anything while your mouth is numb, as you run the risk of biting your cheek or your tongue.
You may experience a bit of tooth sensitivity in the days immediately following your treatment. You may also experience tenderness of the gums. An over-the-counter medication often provides relief.
You will likely be most comfortable sticking with soft foods on the day of your treatment, and potentially the following day. Once you feel comfortable, you are free to eat normally, though you should avoid any foods that can become trapped in the gums for the first week. These may include seeds, nuts, popcorn, or other crunchy, small items that can get pushed into the gum. Within a week, your gums will be reattaching to your teeth, and you will be free to resume your normal diet.
If your dentist finds signs of infection in the gum during your deep cleaning, you may be prescribed an antibiotic. Take the medication exactly as prescribed. Your dentist may also suggest a gentle saltwater rinse after the first 24 hours following your treatment.
Book a Dental Cleaning and Exam on the UWS
If you haven’t had a dental exam or cleaning in the last six months, it’s time to book an exam at Smiles on the Upper Westside. If you have gum disease requiring deep cleaning, our staff will schedule your treatment quickly, to get your gums back to excellent health. Book your appointment online, or call 212-222-5225 to schedule.
Each year, countless teens and adults opt for Invisalign over traditional braces to correct less-than-perfect smiles. Though each person often has specific reasons for selecting Invisalign, there are many benefits of this cosmetic dental treatment you may not have considered. Read on to learn whether using clear alignment trays to correct your smile is right for you.
Aesthetic Benefits of Invisalign
There is no question that Invisalign offers greater discretion when aligning your teeth. Instead of brackets and wires that are impossible to notice when you smile, many people won’t even notice Invisalign trays, as long as you keep them clean. Invisalign’s clear plastic trays are also virtually invisible in photos.
Invisalign also helps you protect your teeth from decalcification, which can happen with bracket braces. Because brackets are cemented to your teeth, it is difficult to remove all of the bacteria on the teeth. Bacteria lead to acid development which can eat away at the enamel of the teeth, in a process known as decalcification. Decalcification causes chalky white spots on the teeth, which are often first seen when braces are removed. Moreover, if you eat and drink a lot of foods and beverages that cause stains such as coffee, tea, white, and red sauces, the exposed area of your teeth may experience discoloration during your treatment, while the part of the tooth beneath the bracket does not.
Because Invisalign allows you to brush the entire teeth, decalcification spots are less likely, and you won’t have to worry about staining or discoloration around the bracket.
Lifestyle Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign also offers a variety of lifestyle benefits. You can enjoy all of your favorite foods while undergoing treatment with Invisalign, as the alignment trays are removable. You won’t need to worry about certain foods causing a wire to snap, or food becoming stuck in a bracket. You remove your Invisalign trays every time you eat, or drink anything other than water.
If you are an athlete, you’ll also be able to remove the alignment trays and replace them with a mouthguard while engaging in sports. This offers you the peace of mind of being able to protect your teeth while enjoying athletics.
Invisalign can be removed for up to four hours per day. This is helpful if you’d like to remove your trays for celebrations, nights out with friends, or if you’ve got business headshots, engagement photos, or other events to commemorate. However, to stay on track with your treatment plan you must wear your trays at least 20 hours per day.
Invisalign is also much more comfortable than bracket braces. The trays are very smooth, making them gentle on soft tissues inside the mouth. You will never have to deal with scrapes from abrasive metal brackets. You also won’t be at risk of cutting your cheek or tongue due to a snapped wire.
Oral Health Benefits of Invisalign
By virtue of being removable, Invisalign can help ensure good oral health while undergoing your orthodontic treatment. You can brush the entire surface of your teeth, which prevents plaque buildup. You can also floss normally. Being able to clean your teeth thoroughly during your treatment can help prevent myriad problems due to plaque accumulation, including cavities, gum disease, and infections.
Want to Learn More About Invisalign on the UWS? Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re interested in learning if Invisalign is right for you, Smiles on the Upper West Side invites you to schedule a consultation today. We will be happy to answer all of your questions. We will also provide you with an estimate of the length of treatment, and the cost of your treatment. Contact us at 212-222-5225 or book an appointment online.
Teeth whitening can help you get the brightest smile you’ve had in years. Both in-office teeth whitening (also known as bleaching) and take-home whitening kits from your dentist can make your teeth several shades whiter. However, teeth whitening may cause brief tooth sensitivity. Moreover, having your teeth whitened doesn’t make them immune from future staining. Read on to learn best practices for keeping your smile beautiful, bright, and free from stains after you’ve had them whitened.
Avoid Stain Causing Foods and Beverages
The first thing to know after you’ve whitened your teeth is that what you eat and drink will determine how long your results will last. Generally speaking, dark and brightly colored beverages and foods will stain your teeth. Examples of beverages known to stain teeth include red wine, tea, coffee, soda, grape juice, prune juice, etc. Likewise, brightly colored sports drinks or slushies will stain your teeth.
If you’re in the midst of whitening your teeth with a take-home kit from your dentist, or if you’ve recently had your teeth whitened at the dentist, it’s best to either avoid these beverages or use a straw when you drink them.
Foods that are known to stain teeth also tend to be dark or brightly colored. Red pasta sauce, for example, causes staining. But other dark sauces and creams such as steak sauce, BBQ sauce, demi-glazes, and gravies may also stain the teeth. Unfortunately, healthy fruits can also stain the teeth. These include cherries, blueberries, blackberries, pomegranates, and raspberries. While whitening your teeth or in the weeks following your treatment, it’s best to get these fruits via juice or smoothie. Just be sure to use a straw.
What to Eat if You Experience Tooth Sensitivity
Brief tooth sensitivity after having your teeth whitened at the dentist or while using a dental-grade take-home whitening kit is common. It is not cause for alarm. Peroxide in whitening gels tends to irritate the nerves in the teeth. For patients who experience sensitivity after teeth whitening, take comfort in knowing that the sensitivity will likely be gone within 48 hours. However, if you’re whitening daily using an at-home kit, tooth sensitivity may last throughout your treatment.
While your teeth are sensitive, it’s best to avoid very hot and very cold food. Extremely sugary, chewy, and hard foods can also cause discomfort. So stick with room temperature, softer foods until the sensitivity subsides. Dairy products such as cheese and sugar-free yogurt may be good options. You may also want vegetables that are roasted, steamed, or sauteed and allowed to cool. Cooled pasta noodles, rice, couscous, and quinoa are also excellent options. Skip the gum, hard candies, and other sweets for the first few days after you’ve whitened your teeth.
If you have naturally sensitive teeth, or if you experience sensitivity after your whitening treatment, ask your dentist which toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth they recommend. You may also wish to switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush or add fluoridated mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine. If sensitivity persists for more than a few days, contact your dentist. Patients with naturally sensitive teeth may also want to discuss other options for brightening their teeth, including dental bonding or porcelain veneers.
Book an Appointment for Teeth Whitening on the UWS
Teeth whitening is the most affordable way to brighten your smile in about an hour. Contact Smiles on the Upper West Side to book a tooth whitening appointment today by calling 212-222-5225. You may also book your appointment online.
Teeth cleanings typically cost between $100-$400 in NYC. Your dental insurance likely covers one or both of your exams. If you don’t have dental insurance, talk with your dentist. They may offer payment plans or a discount for uninsured patients. They may accept third-party financing through CareCredit. It is vital that you make dental cleanings and exams a priority, as poor oral health has been intrinsically linked to a variety of severe, chronic conditions and diseases.
Dental Cleanings: Preventative Screenings are Included
Although you may not realize it, your biannual dental cleaning involves much more than getting your teeth polished. During your appointment, your dentist will be looking for any tissue changes in the mouth that may indicate oral cancer, or underlying conditions such as diabetes.
They will be screening for any signs of infection. They will use digital x-rays once a year to confirm that your jaw bone is healthy and strong. They will also be looking for signs of wear-and-tear on the teeth, indicating that you may be grinding your teeth. They will also screen for signs that wisdom teeth are erupting, and recommend extraction if necessary.
Your dentist will also evaluate your bite during your exam, to ensure that you’re not putting undue pressure on the jaw joints, causing a TMJ disorder. Finally, they will identify any small fractures or internal decay in the teeth that can be treated immediately with a filling or dental crown, to restore the tooth to good health and prevent worsening problems.
Twice Yearly Dental Cleanings: Why Do You Need Them?
The American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) both recommend twice-yearly dental cleanings and exams for plaque removal. Even those who practice excellent hygiene habits should have their teeth professionally cleaned. The reason? Although you’ll remove a lot of decay-causing plaque with regular brushing and daily flossing, you won’t be able to remove it all. The twice-yearly dental cleanings will remove any residual plaque before it has time to harden to the teeth (tartar).
When the plaque isn’t removed, myriad problems begin to develop. The plaque will cause tooth decay. Tiny holes (cavities) will soon develop in the teeth. As the decay spreads, the integrity of the tooth becomes compromised and may become infected. Infection can spread to the gums, resulting in periodontal disease and infection in the pulp of the tooth. Infected teeth must be treated with a root canal, or the tooth will need to be extracted.
Ultimately, missing teeth will need to be replaced with either a dental bridge or a dental implant. Both are more costly than simply having your teeth cleaned and your mouth examined every six months.
Schedule a Dental Exam and Cleaning on the UWS
Whether you’re a recent transplant to NYC, or you’ve been less than perfect about taking care of your oral health, Smiles on the Upper West Side is here to help. We are passionate about providing premium dental care because we are passionate about helping our patients achieve or maintain a beautiful smile, and safeguard their overall health. Book an appointment online, or call or text 212-222-5225 to book a dental cleaning.
Having a bright white smile is all that is needed to boost confidence and have a positive influence on one’s life. The problem is that most people don’t have naturally pearly white teeth. And since no one wants to go through life with lips closed, many turn to teeth whitening.
If you have never tried it before, here is everything you need to know about how teeth whitening works.
Why Teeth Become Stained
We aren’t born with stained teeth, so what causes them to become so discolored? Even those who brush and floss regularly find themselves struggling to maintain a white smile. There are actually many different factors can contribute to the staining, including:
- Foods that are acidic or contain heavy dyes
- Acidic beverages like coffee, tea, red wine
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Tobacco use, whether chewing or smoking
- Aging/Genetics
- Certain medications and medical conditions
Regardless of how they appeared, teeth whitening treatments can often remove stains, leaving you with teeth that are shades whiter.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Professional teeth whitening treatments involve a whitening agent strong enough to give you results in just one visit. Peroxide is one that is commonly used and it contains oxygen molecules that penetrate the stain and dissolve any bond it has to the enamel. The result? The stain is removed and the tooth’s white enamel returns.
There are stains found in the inner layers of the tooth known as intrinsic stains that will not be responsive to whitening treatments. Your dentist will be able to tell you whether or not the stains you are dealing with will be able to be removed from your teeth.
Types of Teeth Whitening Treatment
There are different types of teeth whitening treatments available, some that work better than others.
Professional in-office whitening treatments are often the most effective option as they can allow you to see your teeth shades whiter in just one session. They often involve placing the bleaching agent on the teeth and then activating it with a laser. Though treatment may also use gels in trays. They are quick and painless treatments done under the care of a professional.
At-home professional whitening treatment is purchased from your dentist, but performed at home. They generally take longer to see results – or may be used in between your in-office treatments to maintain a healthy level of whitening. These are still effective treatment options.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments that you buy in the toothpaste aisle of your local discount or grocery store are quite ineffective. You may see your teeth whiten a shade or two over an extended period of time. But if you are looking for noticeable results, this is not the way to go.
Teeth Whitening Treatments on the Upper WestSide
A teeth whitening treatment may be all you need to boost your confidence and feel good about yourself. And there is no better way to do that than with the team at Smiles on the Upper Westside. Treatment options including GLO Professional Whitening and Kör® Whitening allow for professional treatment both in-office and at-home – with quick, effective results.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 212-222-5225.
People with damaged or missing teeth should know that restorative dentistry can help them regain a beautiful smile. Restorative dentistry not only helps to replace damaged or missing teeth but also protects oral and overall health.
Restoring your teeth is essential because it helps you regain function and prevents future oral problems. This blog post will explain why restoring your teeth is vital, techniques for replacing teeth, and what happens if you forgo restoration.
Why Restoring Your Teeth Is a Must
Here are three reasons why restoring your teeth is vital:
It Helps Your Self-Esteem
If you have teeth that are missing or damaged, you already know how they can make you feel. You may avoid smiling or laughing in public. You may cover your mouth with your hand.
You probably don’t smile when someone takes your picture. You may worry about your lost tooth’s impression on the world.
It Prevents Orthodontic Problems
If you’re missing a tooth, it’s not just a cosmetic problem. When a tooth is not there, the other teeth may shift, causing you to lose the benefits of past orthodontic treatment. Having missing teeth could also affect your bite.
It Minimizes Future Decay
Your teeth may become crossed if their positions shift. This problem could bring on more tooth decay. Teeth that are not straight are more challenging to keep clean.
How Dentists Restore Teeth
Dentists restore teeth in one of three ways:
- Crowns
- Implants
- Bridges
Here are the details behind each type of restoration:
Crowns
Crowns are perhaps the most common form of restoration. Dentists use them when the natural tooth is compromised but is salvageable. The dentist prepares the tooth for a crown by removing the diseased area and smoothing it down. Then the permanent metal crown is applied. The crown often has a porcelain coating that makes it match your natural teeth.
Implants
Dental implants involve extracting the tooth, placing a titanium post, and applying a crown. The process can take a few months, counting extraction, post placement, and crown making.
The advantage of a dental implant is that it looks and functions just like a natural tooth. While crowns and bridges sometimes need to be replaced, implants are permanent restorations.
Bridges
A bridge involves building a structure between two healthy teeth and placing a false tooth between them. Bridges are excellent for people who are only missing one to three teeth.
If you are missing a significant number of teeth, you may wish to look into dentures rather than tooth restoration.
What Happens If I Don’t Restore a Tooth?
If you neglect to restore a tooth and leave a space in your mouth for an extended period, you could experience bone loss in the jaw. This problem could give the area around your mouth a sunken look.
The longer you wait between extraction and restoration, the more problems you may encounter. It is better to restore the tooth with a crown, implant, or bridge as soon as possible.
The Importance of Tooth Restoration
Restoring your teeth allows you to be your authentic self and move through life without worrying about a damaged or missing tooth.
If you want to look into restoring your smile, call Smiles on the Upper Westside at 212-222-5225 today.