Throughout life, teeth can become stained and take on shades of yellow. This is not usually the result of poor hygiene, but rather a compilation of staining beverages, age, medications, and lifestyle. The good news is that when you are ready to regain those pearly whites, you can do so with a professional teeth whitening appointment.
A visit to your dentist for an in-chair whitening appointment can almost effortlessly send you on your way with a brighter smile in no time.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
It depends. Yes, it is most definitely a frustrating answer, but it is the truth. The length of time your whitening treatment will keep shining depends. It could last a year or two. Maybe even three. Though it could also only last about six months.
Giving your teeth a fresh start from all their staining means you can’t keep doing what you’re doing if you don’t want them to be stained again. The better you treat your teeth after your professional whitening appointment, the longer it will last.
What Stains Teeth?
Teeth can be stained over time. In fact, sometimes it happens so slowly you don’t even realize it. This can be the result of the foods and beverages you consume, lack of oral health, bad habits, poor treatment, genetics, and more. Let’s take a closer look at the things that cause teeth to stain:
- Acidic foods and those with heavy dyes.
- Beverages such as coffee, soda, red wine, grape juice, and the like.
- Failure to brush and floss properly or get professional dental cleanings.
- Certain medical conditions, diseases, and medications.
- Smoking and chewing tobacco.
Enamel also begins to wear down as you grow older, causing your teeth to appear stained and discolored.
Lifestyle Changes to Keep Your White Teeth
There is no time better than right now to start making lifestyle changes that will help keep your mouth – and your teeth – healthy. And, if you choose to get your teeth whitened, you will most definitely want to put these changes into practice so that you can reduce the chance of re-staining your teeth — and prolong the whitening.
- Let go of the tobacco. Whether you chew it or smoke it, it’s time to quit.
- Reduce your consumption of staining beverages. In other words, think twice before regularly consuming that morning coffee.
- Schedule regular dental cleanings — and make it a point to show up for them.
- Develop good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly.
- Avoid foods that have heavy dyes in them or overly acidic foods. If you do, immediately brush your teeth or, at the very least, rinse your mouth.
Talk to your dentist during your teeth whitening appointment to see if there are any other recommendations for maintaining that bright smile for as long as possible.
Learn More About Teeth Whitening
If you have more questions about teeth whitening or you are ready to get started, schedule a consultation with Smiles on the Upper Westside. Contact us today at 212-222-5225 . We have several different whitening systems to choose from and we are confident you will find the best one for your teeth.
New York City is home to some of the country’s best cosmetic dentists, so there’s truly no place better to makeover your smile. If you’re wondering how much you can expect to pay for your cosmetic dental treatment, read on to find out.
Cosmetic Bonding
Cost: $300–400 per tooth
With cosmetic bonding, we can improve the appearance of your smile by covering over or filling in the imperfections on one or more teeth. This treatment is a more affordable alternative to porcelain veneers, although the downside is that it doesn’t last as long and bonded teeth are prone to staining. Still, bonding is a budget-friendly option that allows you to correct gaps, chips, discoloration, cracks, and uneven tooth lengths.
Teeth Whitening
Cost: $250–800
Teeth whitening is one of the most frequently requested cosmetic dentistry treatments at our UWS dental practice—after all, who doesn’t want a brighter smile? Although there are countless over-the-counter teeth whitening products available on the market, nothing gives you the level of results as professional teeth whitening from a dentist. An in-office teeth whitening procedure helps you achieve the fastest results in the shortest amount of time, while at-home teeth whitening is a more affordable option that can be performed on your own time, from the comfort of home.
Dental Veneers
Cost: $2000-4000
When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, you might consider porcelain veneers the gold standard. They are designed by your dentist to fit your unique facial features and proportions, then they are fabricated by a skilled dental technician who uses several thin layers of porcelain to mimic the appearance of a natural tooth. Veneers can be used to correct all of the same complaints as dental bonding, along with correcting slightly misaligned teeth, but the key difference is that they last much longer and are more resistant to stains. To apply dental veneers, a thin layer of enamel is removed from your tooth, then the veneer is bonded to the prepared surface.
Dental Crowns
Cost: $1,000–$2,500
Dental crowns are a restorative procedure that has both functional and cosmetic benefits. If you have a tooth that is malformed or badly damaged, a crown is often the best solution available. When crowns are made with a high-quality tooth-colored material, they blend in perfectly with the rest of your smile for a seamless appearance.
Invisalign
Cost: $4,000-$8000
Invisalign is another treatment with both cosmetic and oral health benefits—you might be interested in aligner therapy to beautify your smile, but straighter teeth are also healthier teeth because they’re less prone to decay and abnormal wear. Invisalign allows you to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted without the hassles of traditional braces!
Skyce
Cost: $250-350
Skyce is the newest service offered by our Upper West Side cosmetic dental practice and our patients are loving it! Also known as tooth jewelry or tooth gems, it involves adding some sparkle to your smile by bonding jewels to the surface of your teeth.
Learn More About Cosmetic Dentistry in NYC
If you’d like to schedule an appointment for a consultation, contact us today at 212-222-5225.
If you are missing teeth, you’ve undoubtedly heard about the benefits of dental implants. Because they prevent and even reverse bone loss in the jaw, they’ve become the preferred option for restoring missing teeth. Still, it’s important to take a step back and consider the potential downsides of dental implants too. Here are some pros and cons of dental implants to help you make your decision.
What Are Dental Implants?
Unlike dentures and bridges, dental implants address the consequences of tooth loss both above and below the gum line. A typical implant-supported restoration includes a dental implant (the post or screw that is implanted into the jaw), a restoration (a crown, bridge, or denture), and an abutment piece that connects the two.
Dental implants are a permanent replacement for the roots of your missing teeth. They provide a stable base of support for restorations and result in a strong bite and more youthful appearance.
Pros of Dental Implants
For most patients, the pros of dental implants outweigh the cons. We recommend dental implants because:
Dental implants last a lifetime.
While getting dental implants is both a financial and time investment, they have a very high success rate and for most patients they are a permanent solution that never needs to be replaced. You may need to replace the restorations that attach to your implants at some point, but the implants themselves can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.
Dental implants are easy to care for.
While different types of implant-supported restorations require different levels of care, for many, your oral hygiene practices will be much the same as with your natural teeth. Simply brush for two minutes twice a day, floss at least once a day, and go to the dentist every six months for comprehensive oral evaluations and dental cleanings.
Dental implants prevent bone loss in the jaw.
We mentioned this above, but it bears repeating. There is no other option available that maintains bone density in the jaw and even reverses bone loss. With jawbone loss, your bite is weaker, your other teeth can become compromised, and you may suffer facial collapse, which can result in a prematurely aged appearance.
Cons of Dental Implants
In some circumstances, the cons of dental implants outweigh the benefits, particularly if you have other medical issues that complicate surgery. You may decide not to get dental implants because:
Dental implants may require supplemental procedures.
One of the most common procedures needed to prepare for dental implants is tooth extraction, but typically if you have a tooth that must be extracted for dental implants, it will also need to be extracted for dentures or bridges. If your teeth have been missing for some time, you may have already experienced bone loss in the jaw, in which case you may need bone grafting or a sinus lift prior to implant surgery. These procedures add to the cost and time involved in the dental implant process.
Dental implants are costly.
Because dental implants replace the tooth above and below the gum line, they are more expensive than dentures and bridges. Compounding this, the full cost of dental implants is rarely covered by dental insurance. Paying for dental implants out-of-pocket may not be feasible for you. If this is the case, ask us whether you qualify for a monthly payment plan when you come in for your consultation.
Dental implant surgery is invasive.
Getting dental implants is a surgical procedure. If you have health issues that impede your healing or that put you at a higher risk for complications, you may decide that the risks of dental implant surgery for you outweigh the potential benefits.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Are dental implants right for you? To schedule a consultation at Smiles on the Upper Westside, contact us today at 212-222-5225.
Dental veneers are a fantastic way to rejuvenate and restore your smile. Ideal for patients who have healthy teeth with cosmetic imperfections, porcelain veneers are a long-lasting solution that allows us to create the perfect smile you’ve always dreamed of. Even a single veneer on a tooth that is chipped or deeply stained can make a dramatic difference in your overall appearance. Despite these benefits, many of our patients have concerns about the costs of veneers in NYC, which is understandable—veneers are a significant investment. Here’s what you should know.
What do porcelain veneers cost in NYC?
The average cost of porcelain veneers is $2,000 to $4,500 per tooth. These veneers can last up to 15 years, and sometimes even longer with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Because veneers are meant to last a decade or more, it’s important to invest in a skilled cosmetic dentist who takes the time to create custom porcelain veneers that fit your facial features and proportions. Poorly done veneers call unwanted attention to your smile, while veneers that are customized to your needs simply make you look like an improved version of yourself.
How much does a full set of veneers cost?
Many patients request a “full set of veneers,” but realistically, there’s no need to put veneers on all of your teeth. Only teeth that show when you smile need veneers and the number of teeth required for this varies from patient to patient, depending on the size of your smile. We do offer discounts when multiple veneers are needed; we can provide you with an exact cost during your consultation appointment.
Will my dental insurance plan cover the cost of veneers?
Because dental veneers are used to correct aesthetic imperfections in your smile, they are not usually covered by dental insurance.
Can you pay monthly for veneers?
Yes, we are pleased to offer flexible monthly payment plans for porcelain veneers, with 12 months of interest-free financing for patients with approved credit. We work with CareCredit to make veneers and other dental procedures fit into your budget so you can feel confident in your smile.
Are there cheaper alternatives to porcelain veneers?
Yes, there are cheaper alternatives to porcelain veneers, but they’re usually only cheaper in the short-term. While the upfront costs for these veneers may be less, they also have a much shorter lifespan, so in the long-term, you’ll save money by choosing porcelain veneers. Not only do these veneers not last as long, they also don’t look as realistic, as they’re made with a lower quality material. Many inexpensive veneers are not customized for each patient, resulting in a boxy, cookie-cutter appearance.
Why are veneers so expensive?
Porcelain veneers are designed to stand the test of time and to look completely natural. To achieve this, they are carefully fabricated by expert ceramists in a dental laboratory. Just like a natural tooth is made with layers of enamel, a veneer is made with thin layers of porcelain. This painstaking process produces highly realistic results, but it also requires an investment.
Are porcelain veneers worth it?
Yes, porcelain veneers are worth the cost—our patients are thrilled with their new smiles! If you’ve felt self-conscious about your teeth for years or even decades, your veneers will make you proud to share your smile with the world.
Learn More About Veneers in NYC
If you’d like to schedule an appointment to discuss the cost of veneers for your unique needs, contact us today at 212-222-5225.
Dental implants are an investment in both time and money. Just like a car, furniture, or any other item that has a significant price tag, it’s understandable that you’d want to know how long dental implants last before making the investment, but the answer to this question is a bit more complicated than you might expect.
What Are Dental Implants?
When most people outside of the dental profession talk about dental implants, they use the term to refer to a wide range of restorations for missing teeth. “Dental implants” could mean a single tooth restoration or an All-on-4 restoration that replaces an entire arch of teeth.
A more accurate definition of dental implants is that they are the posts or screws that are placed into the jaw to support a restoration; you might even think of them as replacements for the roots of your missing teeth. In addition to the dental implant and the restoration, there’s usually a third piece, called an abutment, that connects the implant and restoration.
In short, only the implant posts themselves are actually dental implants. The crowns, bridges, and dentures that attach to them are restorations. Each of these components has a different expected lifespan.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants have up to a 98 percent success rate and are designed to last a lifetime. Once osseointegration occurs—the process in which your dental implants and your jawbone fuse together—your implants are permanent. You won’t have to worry about replacing them or going through the dental implant process again in a few years’ time.
This doesn’t mean that your implants can never be compromised, though. The roots of the teeth are also meant to be permanent, but just as you lost your tooth and needed an implant, you can also lose your implant. While failed osseointegration is the most common cause of implant failure, peri-implantitis is an infection that attacks the implant and bone surrounding it. You may be at higher risk for this if you smoke, have certain medical conditions, have oral habits like teeth grinding, or don’t practice good oral hygiene.
How Long Do Dental Implant Restorations Last?
Your dental implants will last a lifetime, but what about the restorations attached to them? The average restoration will last 10 to 20 years, but it’s not uncommon for them to last even longer with regular dental visits, diligent oral hygiene, and good overall habits.
Just like your natural teeth, restorations need to be brushed and flossed; while they can’t get cavities, the restorations that attach to dental implants can leave you susceptible to gum disease if they’re not cared for properly, which can compromise your dental implant and any neighboring teeth.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Are you considering dental implants to restore one or more missing teeth? Do you have questions about the process? If you’d like to learn more about getting dental implants, contact us today at 212-222-5225 to schedule a consultation at Smiles on the Upper Westside.
If you’re considering dental implants, it’s important to know the different options that are available. Technically speaking, the term “dental implant” only refers to the implant post that is surgically placed in the jaw. These posts can be used to support a wide range of restorations, with a piece called an abutment to connect the implant and the restoration. Dr. Massiah and the team at Smiles on the Upper Westside are among the premier providers of dental implants in NYC and we make the process seamless by handling the entire procedure right in our office, from start to finish.
We offer the following types of dental implants at our Upper West Side location:
Single-Tooth Dental Implants
Single-tooth dental implants are a close replica of your natural tooth, with an implant replacing the root and a dental crown replacing the tooth above the gum line. This type of restoration is used when only a single tooth needs to be replaced with a dental implant or when you have more than one tooth that needs to be replaced, but they are not adjacent to each other. Your crown will be fabricated to match the rest of your teeth, so no one will notice you have a dental implant when you smile.
Implant-Supported Bridges
If you have a few teeth in a row that need to be replaced, an implant-supported bridge is a more economical solution than replacing each individual tooth with its own dental implant and crown. This restoration involves replacing the two outermost missing teeth with dental implants and using these implants to support a span of pontics, or prosthetic teeth.
When compared to traditional dental bridges, implant-supported bridges are a better solution because they prevent bone loss in the jaw and they offer more stability and strength. In addition, implant-supported bridges don’t require the support of adjacent teeth like a traditional bridge, which means they don’t place stress on other teeth and put them at risk for fracture and decay.
Implant-Supported Dentures
An implant-supported denture is more comfortable and stable than a traditional denture, which is secured in place with adhesive or paste. This means they feel more natural and allow for better overall function. Implant-supported dentures can be full or partial; fixed or removable (also known as snap-on dentures). Because implant-supported dentures prevent and reverse jawbone loss, they result in a more youthful appearance.
Full Arch With Only Four Implants
If you need to replace all of your teeth on the upper or lower arch, you may wish to consider this solution. The full arch with only four implants uses four implants to support an arch of fixed replacement teeth. Many patients who are not candidates for traditional implant-supported dentures are able to have this procedure and it can be performed on the same day as your teeth are extracted.
Learn More About the Types of Dental Implants
Wondering which of these options is best for you? Contact us today at 212-222-5225 to schedule a consultation at Smiles on the Upper Westside.
Interest in smile makeovers has grown leaps and bounds in the past decade, likely because options for cosmetic dentistry have also advanced during this time. Now, it’s possible to completely transform your smile while still achieving results that look completely natural. If you’re considering a smile makeover, here are the answers to some common questions you might have.
What’s the difference between a full mouth reconstruction and a smile makeover?
Sometimes these two terms are used to refer to the same type of dental work, but there is a subtle difference—a smile makeover typically focuses on correcting aesthetic imperfections, while a full mouth rehabilitation restores teeth that are missing, damaged, or compromised due to injury or disease. A smile makeover may include some minor restorative work like a crown or even a bridge, but a full mouth rehabilitation is almost exclusively restorative.
What does a smile makeover cost in NYC?
It’s not possible to give a precise answer for this because every smile makeover is different—they usually involve a combination of procedures, each with its own price point, and they can include different numbers of teeth and different materials, all of which impact cost. Generally speaking, a smile makeover that does not include any dental implants can range from $20,000 to $30,000. When surgical treatment is needed, as with dental implants, the cost will be higher.
What is included in a smile makeover?
A smile makeover is a completely customized treatment plan. What sets it apart from other forms of cosmetic dentistry is that it’s a comprehensive plan that addresses all aesthetic issues; it usually involves two or more procedures and multiple office appointments. Your smile makeover will usually include cosmetic dental treatments like teeth whitening, Invisalign, porcelain veneers, cosmetic bonding, and microabrasion, and it may also involve some restorative work as well. Dental implants, bridges, and crowns all offer aesthetic benefits in addition to improving function and bite strength. Occasionally, periodontal procedures like gum grafts or crown lengthening may be part of a smile makeover too.
Is a smile makeover covered by dental insurance?
Dental insurance won’t cover cosmetic dentistry that doesn’t offer any functional benefits, which means procedures like teeth whitening and veneers are not covered. In some circumstances, other procedures that are included in a smile makeover may be at least partially covered if they will also improve your oral health.
Even if your smile makeover isn’t covered by dental insurance, we’re committed to easing your financial burden and making the dental care you need affordable. We offer flexible and convenient payment plans for qualified patients through CareCredit, including interest-free financing.
Learn More About Smile Makeovers in NYC
The best way to find out the cost of a smile makeover in NYC is to visit us for a consultation. Contact us today at 212-222-5225 to schedule an appointment at Smiles on the Upper Westside and learn more about how we can improve your smile.
Are you considering Invisalign for yourself or your teen? Invisalign is gaining popularity for a variety of reasons. Adults and teens like the fact that the clear aligners are virtually invisible and also removable so you don’t have to change your eating habits. Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces, as the aligners are made of smooth plastic and move your teeth more gradually.
So why doesn’t everyone choose Invisalign? In the past, Invisalign was more expensive than traditional metal braces, which was a deterrent, especially for parents choosing the best option for their children. But now, Invisalign is comparable in price to metal braces, taking cost out of the equation when it comes to choosing the best orthodontic treatment.
Average Cost of Invisalign
The average cost of Invisalign is between $3,000 and $7,000. The average cost of traditional metal braces is $3,000 to $6,000. The only difference is that the range for Invisalign goes a bit higher than braces, but what you actually pay depends on a variety of factors. Clear ceramic brackets and lingual braces (metal braces that go behind the teeth) are more expensive than both traditional metal braces and Invisalign.
Factors that Contribute to the Cost of Invisalign
Not every patient will pay the same amount for Invisalign. Pricing depends on a few different factors.
- Location. Where you live will be a big factor in the cost of Invisalign. You’ll likely find higher prices in densely populated areas with a higher cost of living than in a smaller town or rural area.
- Complexity of Treatment. The extent of the corrections you require will affect the cost. With Invisalign, a series of clear aligners are created at the start of treatment. You switch from one aligner to the next per your dentist’s instructions. The more your teeth need to be moved, the more aligners you will require, and the higher the overall cost will be.
- Time Frame of Treatment. The more aligners you will require to achieve the final result, the longer your treatment will take. Invisalign treatment does include visits to the dentist to monitor your progress. The longer the treatment takes, the more consultations you will require, which will increase the cost of treatment.
- Dentist vs Orthodontist. One advantage to Invisalign over braces is that it does not require an orthodontist to administer. Invisalign is completely created through a computer software program that takes digital images of the teeth and creates the necessary aligners to reach the final goal. A dentist can monitor the progress of Invisalign without a specialist, which saves you money.
- Insurance Coverage. If you have dental insurance, a portion of orthodontic treatment may be covered. In most cases, insurance offers a lump sum amount toward braces, which can be applied to Invisalign in most cases. Having some insurance funding helps to bring down the amount you’ll pay out of pocket.
- Financing. If you don’t have insurance, or if insurance doesn’t cover all of the cost of Invisalign, financing can make your out of pocket cost more affordable. Options such as CareCredit are designed to finance medical costs and allow you to pay them in monthly installments, without interest for 12 months.
Invisalign is Affordable at Smiles on the Upper West Side
If you’re interested in Invisalign in New York City, Smiles on the Upper West Side is a certified Invisalign provider. You don’t have to go to an orthodontist for Invisalign as we offer it in our dental office. Smiles on the Upper West Side provides comprehensive dental services so you can get all of your dental care and maintenance at the same convenient location. We accept a long list of insurance plans and offer affordable financing.
Call 212-222-5225 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve a confident smile.
Are you considering a dental implant? Dental implants are most often the recommended solution for teeth that are missing or cannot be saved. Whether a tooth is so severely decayed that it cannot be filled or fitted with a crown, your tooth is cracked or broken beyond repair, or you have a tooth that has been missing for a while, a dental implant can replace it.
A dental implant is the closest possible option to your natural tooth in both function and appearance. It is considered to be the gold standard for tooth replacement, which is why it costs more than a bridge.
How much do dental implants cost on the upper west side of New York City? Here’s what you can expect.
Average Cost of a Dental Implant Procedure
A single dental implant to replace one tooth can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $3,000. Where the actual price will fall within that range depends on a variety of factors.
Factors that Affect the Cost of Dental Implants
It is difficult to determine what the cost of a dental implant will be without a consultation with a dentist because there are so many factors at play, such as:
- Type of Tooth. The type of tooth and where it is located can make a difference in the cost. An implant to replace a back molar will likely cost more than a front tooth because it is more difficult to access.
- The Dentist’s Level of Experience. A well-established dentist with experience and a good reputation in the community may charge more than other dentists. But many patients are willing to pay more for the reassurance of their expertise.
- Location. Where the office is located will help to determine the cost. In a densely populated area with a higher cost of living you will find higher prices than in smaller towns and rural areas.
- Preparatory Procedures. Not all patients are ideal candidates for dental implants right away. An implant requires a certain amount of bone density to hold it in place. If your tooth has been missing for a while, the jaw bone may have weakened and deteriorated over time. This can be corrected with a bone graft procedure, but it will add cost and time to the process.
- Insurance. If you have dental insurance your plan may cover a portion of the cost of a dental implant. However, some plans do not cover implants. Contact your insurance provider before the procedure to determine how much, if any, of the cost will be covered.
Why Are Dental Implants Worth the Cost?
Yes, having the tooth pulled would be cheaper. Yes, getting a bridge still costs less than an implant. However, there are many benefits to getting an implant, such as:
- Natural Look. A dental implant looks as close as possible to a natural tooth. The crown attached to the top of the implant is made to resemble your natural teeth in color, size, and shape.
- Superior Function. Because the implant root securely bonds with the jaw bone, you have the same bite strength as you do with your natural teeth.
- Prevent Bone Loss. When you have a tooth that can’t be saved, replacing it with an implant right away can prevent bone loss in the jaw. If a tooth is lost or extracted and not replaced, the part of the jaw bone that once held it in place will weaken and eventually dissolve.
- Keep Surrounding Teeth Healthy. By replacing a missing or hopeless tooth with an implant, the other teeth in that part of the mouth are more easily maintained. A missing tooth can cause the surrounding teeth to become loose or shift out of place. A dental implant is also healthier than a bridge, because a bridge requires the teeth on either side of the missing tooth to be shaved down and fitted with crowns that hold the artificial tooth in place. You lose healthy tooth material in the process.
These benefits and more are the reasons patients choose dental implants over other options.
Smiles on the Upper West Side Makes Dental Implants Affordable
At Smiles on the Upper West Side, we believe that no one should have to settle for less than the highest quality dental care. If a dental implant is the best option for you, we offer ways to make it affordable. After insurance, the remainder of the cost can be financed through CareCredit with zero interest for 12 months. CareCredit is designed to help patients pay for medical procedures that are not covered or partially covered by insurance.
Call 212-222-5225 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to helping you restore your smile with a dental implant.
Teeth whitening is one of the most commonly requested treatments from cosmetic dentists. Unfortunately, as we age, tooth discoloration is inevitable—and a whiter smile is a small change that can make a dramatic difference in your overall appearance.
Since cosmetic dentistry isn’t covered by dental insurance, many patients are concerned about the cost when considering whether they should pursue professional teeth whitening treatment. Here’s what you need to know about the cost of teeth whitening on the Upper West Side in NYC.