Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing or replacing damaged teeth, whereas general dentistry encompasses routine care, including cleanings and exams.
Even if your teeth and gums feel perfectly healthy, it is recommended that adults visit the dentist every six months for routine checkups and professional cleanings. These visits help catch potential issues early and maintain optimal oral health. However, some adults may require cleanings every 3 to 4 months due to factors such as genetic predispositions, underlying medical conditions, or extensive past dental work. Everyone’s oral health needs are different, and more frequent visits can be essential for those at higher risk of dental problems.
Yes. Tooth-colored fillings are more natural-looking and bond directly to the tooth, making them a popular and durable option.
No. Once tooth decay begins, it requires professional treatment to prevent it from spreading or causing further pain.
Crowns, also known as caps, are placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their shape, size, and strength.
Great oral hygiene goes beyond brushing and flossing. To keep your smile healthy:
Teeth can stain over time from coffee, wine, tobacco, or deeply pigmented foods. For a brighter smile:
Prevention starts at home with twice-daily brushing, daily flossing, and a balanced diet. Regular dental checkups are crucial for detecting problems early.
Dental X-rays allow your dentist to detect problems that are not visible during a regular exam, such as cavities between teeth or issues below the gum line.
Tooth sensitivity often causes discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods or drinks. It can result from:
Depending on the cause, treatment may include using sensitivity toothpaste, fluoride treatments, night guards, or addressing underlying dental conditions.
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Made from biocompatible materials, they serve as a sturdy foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures, mimicking the function and appearance of natural teeth.
Dental implants have an impressive success rate, often exceeding 95% when proper care and follow-up are maintained. They are a trusted, long-term solution for replacing missing teeth.
With proper care, dental implants can last 15 years or longer, often for the rest of a person’s life.
Most patients report minimal discomfort. The procedure is done under local anesthesia. Most patients report mild soreness afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Most people with missing teeth can be considered for implants, but a few key factors are evaluated:
A consultation and imaging help determine eligibility.
Implants are permanent and feel like natural teeth. Dentures are removable and may not provide the same level of stability or comfort.
Good oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining the health of your implants. This includes:
While general dentistry focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing oral health issues, cosmetic dentistry improves the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. Cosmetic dentistry encompasses procedures such as veneers, bonding, whitening, inlays, implants, and Invisalign®.
Yes—indirectly and sometimes directly. Before starting any cosmetic treatment, your dentist will ensure that your teeth and gums are in good health. Treatments such as crowns, implants, and Invisalign® not only enhance appearance but also support better function and alignment, ultimately contributing to long-term oral health.
Veneers are long-lasting but may need replacement after 10–15 years. They require a small amount of enamel to be removed.
The main difference between bonding and porcelain veneers is the material and durability. Bonding uses tooth-colored resin applied directly to the tooth and is a quicker, more affordable option, but less durable. Porcelain veneers are thin shells custom-made from porcelain that are bonded to the front of the teeth, offering a more natural look and greater strength, but they are more expensive and require more preparation.
Yes. For minor misalignment or gaps, porcelain veneers or dental bonding may be all that is needed to create a beautifully even smile. For more significant alignment issues or bite correction, Invisalign® clear aligners offer a discreet and effective solution.
Here are some examples of why people might seek cosmetic dentistry treatments:
Not at all. Modern cosmetic dentistry uses advanced materials and techniques that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Porcelain veneers, composite bonding, and crowns are color-matched and shaped to match your smile. The results are so natural-looking, people will only notice how great your smile looks!
Most cosmetic treatments are not covered, but some may be partially reimbursed if they also serve a restorative function.
Invisalign® is a treatment approach that uses transparent, detachable trays to gradually align teeth, serving as an alternative to conventional metal braces.
Yes! Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® aligners are removable, so you can enjoy all your favorite foods without restrictions. Just be sure to take them out while eating and brush them before putting them back in.
Yes, usually only at night. Retainers help maintain your new smile by preventing teeth from gradually shifting back to their original positions.
Some people notice a slight lisp when they first start wearing aligners, but this usually fades quickly as your tongue adjusts.
Costs vary depending on your specific needs and the length of treatment. In general, Invisalign® is comparable in price to traditional braces. We will provide a personalized estimate during your consultation.
Treatment times vary from case to case, but most patients complete Invisalign® treatment in approximately 12 to 18 months.
Invisalign® is highly effective for treating a range of alignment issues, including crowding, gaps, overbites, and open bites. More complex cases may require alternative treatments, which we’ll discuss with you.
Most patients find Invisalign® more comfortable than traditional braces since there are no wires or brackets to irritate the mouth. The aligners are smooth, custom-fit, and easy to wear.
A root canal removes infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth to eliminate pain and save the natural tooth.
No. Thanks to modern techniques and local anesthesia, a root canal is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Most patients actually feel relief after the procedure, as the source of pain—the infected pulp—is removed.
A root canal is often necessary when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected due to decay, trauma, or a crack. Common warning signs include:
A root canal usually takes between 60 and 120 minutes. Some cases can be completed in one visit, while others may require two or three appointments, depending on the complexity of the tooth.
After treatment, some mild sensitivity or soreness is normal and should subside in a few days. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored. Your dentist will likely recommend a crown or filling to protect the tooth and restore its full function.
With proper care—including regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups—a tooth that has had a root canal can last for many years. A durable restoration, such as a crown, is key to long-term success.
Antibiotics may temporarily reduce infection, but they won’t eliminate the need for a root canal if the pulp is damaged.
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