Discover theToledo Dental Difference
Our practice offers a full range of dental care in a relaxed and caring environment. We provide the services as listed below, and invite you to learn more by perusing our website, or by calling our office. All of our services include comprehensive treatment planning to establish effective long term success. Emergency care is available, as well as family dental health for children 4 years and older. For patients with anxiety, oral sedation and nitrous oxide are available.
Restorative
If you have been unfortunate enough to lose any (or even all).
Composite Fillings
Fillings are used to restore areas of your tooth affected by decay. At Toledo Dental Care we use composite (tooth-colored) materials to “fill in” the surface of the tooth after all decay has been removed.
Reasons for Fillings
| • | Restoring small to medium sized cavities |
| • | Restoring a chipped anterior (front) tooth |
What Does a Filling Involve?
First, Dr. Millet will answer any questions you have and will apply anesthetic to the tooth requiring the filling. Then your Toledo dentist will thoroughly remove the decay that is present and prepare the tooth for either the composite filling.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are tooth-colored to blend in with the remaining natural part of the tooth. The term composite refers to the actual filling material, which is a mixture of glass or quartz filler in a resin medium.
Composite fillings provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small-to-mid size restorations that need to withstand moderate chewing pressure. In addition to being more aesthetically pleasing, composite fillings are “bonded” or attached with adhesive directly to the tooth surface. This often allows for a more conservative repair than traditional fillings with their inability to bond to the tooth structure. Since traditional fillings do not bond to the tooth, amalgam is packed into the tooth, and may loosen over time. Amalgam fillings often require that more tooth structure be removed to create a space that will hold the filling in place.
Composite fillings require that the tooth be kept clean and dry during the entire filling process, and they are subject to stain and discoloration over time. The life expectancy of a white filling can depend greatly on where it is in your mouth and how heavily your teeth come together when you bite.
Composite filling material is also commonly used to repair front teeth that have chipped or worn. Where possible, aesthetic bonding of composite material to front teeth is generally much less expensive than veneers or crowns. However, bonding typically does not last as long as veneers or crowns.
If your tooth is sensitive for a week or more it is important to call our office at (541) 336-2122 so we can examine the tooth and determine if additional treatment is needed.
Dental Crowns
A crown is a covering that will wrap and protect the entire surface of a tooth, allowing it to look and function just like the original tooth. Crowns work to strengthen the tooth while protecting the existing structure, extending the life of the tooth longer than it would be with a filling or another restoration.
Reasons for Choosing a Dental Crown
Dental crowns can correct a variety of problems that you might be experiencing with your teeth:
| • | Fractured or broken teeth |
| • | Severely decayed teeth |
| • | Cosmetic imperfections |
| • | Fractured fillings |
| • | Tooth protection needed after a root canal |
Types of Dental Crowns
There are three main types of dental crowns available, and we’ll help you choose the right one for your mouth:
| • | All Porcelain: The all porcelain crown is one of the most aesthetically pleasing options, but it is generally only recommended for the front teeth. When placed on the rear teeth, the risk of fracture with these crowns will increase. |
| • | Gold: Gold crowns are extremely durable, and they are best suited for the back molars where they cannot be seen. Gold crowns are useful for people who clench or grind their teeth. Gold crowns tend to be most similar to your natural teeth, which will allow the tissue to quickly adapt to the restoration, and a minimal amount of your natural tooth structure will need to be removed to have the crown put into place. |
| • | Porcelain Fused to Metal: This type of crown will feature a metal base with porcelain attached to the outside, making the restoration more attractive than an entirely metal option. If you want the durability of a gold crown but want your tooth to look as natural as possible, this would be a great selection. Some risk does still exist regarding fractures, but in the event of a chip or break, it is usually just the outer porcelain portion that is damaged. |
The Dental Crown Procedure
If you’ll be getting a dental crown, you can plan on having two appointments to complete the process. At your first visit, the tooth will be prepared by removing decay, and the surface will be shaped so it can fit the crown. We will take impressions of your teeth so your customized crown can be created, and you’ll likely wear a temporary restoration while we wait for your crown to be finished.
At your follow-up appointment, we’ll take off your temporary crown and will carefully place the permanent one in place. We’ll also ensure proper bite and spacing.
After your appointment, we’ll encourage you to follow up with us regularly. While proper oral hygiene is essential, you’ll also need regular dental care to ensure that your crown is in the best possible shape.
Denture
When the condition of the teeth has deteriorated so far that they can no longer be repaired, removal is the only option. Dentures are a “replacement” option for missing teeth. There are two variations of dentures: partial dentures and full dentures. The difference between the two lies in how many natural teeth remain.
A complete denture is a removable prosthesis of white plastic teeth in a pink gum-colored plastic base; the denture rests on the remaining gum ridge once all of the teeth in the arch have been removed.
It is important to note that life with an upper and/or lower denture is a major lifestyle change when compared to natural teeth. Dentures impact the type of food you are able to eat, your self-confidence in social situations and even your self-esteem.
Reasons for a Full Denture
| • | All teeth missing in the same arch |
| • | Restore chewing ability |
| • | Restore a natural looking smile |
| • | Economical alternative to other procedures |
An upper full denture will almost always feel better than a lower full denture. In order to dramatically improve the fit of a lower full denture, we frequently suggest using dental implants as a retentive mechanism. Implants placed in the lower jaw can help anchor the denture and significantly improve comfort. Sometimes, the implants can even be placed in the jaw after a denture has been in use for several years.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a titanium post designed to replace missing teeth. The post is surgically placed into the jawbone where the tooth is missing, and provides a more permanent solution.
Crowns and conventional bridges or dentures may not be your only options when replacing missing teeth. For some people, dental implants offer a smile that looks and feels very natural. Implants are surgically placed below the gums over a series of appointments, and fuse to the jawbone. Implants offer stability because they fuse to your bone, a process called osseointegration. Integration of the implants into your jaw also helps your replacement teeth feel more natural, and some people find the secure fit more comfortable than conventional substitutes. Candidates for dental implants must have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant.
Reasons for Dental Implants
| • | Replace a missing tooth |
| • | Maintain healthy bone levels |
| • | Help support overdentures |
| • | Keep the look and feel of a real tooth where one is missing |
What Does a Dental Implant Involve?
Implant Site Preparation
The gum tissue is opened to expose the bone area where the implant will be placed. In situations where there is insufficient bone structure, bone grafting may be a recommended procedure. Once healthy bone has been established, a special drill is used to prepare the bone to receive the implant.
Placing the Implant
After the bone has been prepared, the implant is placed and the tissue is sutured. After seven to ten days the sutures are removed. The healing process takes three to six months. This is the amount of time it usually takes the implant to become part of the bone of the jaw.
Attaching the Post
When the gum tissue is ready, a special post is attached to the implant; it is the support for the new porcelain crown. Today’s technologies often include zirconium abutments attached to the implant post, to assure that the new porcelain tooth possesses translucency properties similar to a natural tooth.
Placing the Crown
After impressions are taken a crown is made and shaded to match your existing teeth. The crown is then slipped over the post and cemented. This final prosthetic crown appears as a natural tooth.
There is a high rate of failure of implants in patients who smoke, so dental implants tend to not be an option for patients who are actively smoking. We will help you determine whether dental implants will be a good tooth replacement option for you. Proper brushing and flossing will maximize the longevity of your new dental implant.
Root Canal Therapy
A “root canal,” or endodontic therapy, is a procedure available to save a tooth that is infected and would otherwise require extraction. There are many reasons that teeth can become infected, including: cavities, previous large fillings, crowns, cracks, trauma and extreme wear.
Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (nerve and blood supply), bacteria and any decay are removed, and the resulting space is filled with an inert material called gutta percha. After the tooth is healed, getting a crown is recommended, because the tooth will become brittle.
Having a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would die and have to be removed. Many patients believe that removing a problematic tooth is the best (and most economical) solution. Extracting, or pulling a tooth, could ultimately be more costly and cause significant problems for adjacent teeth, as well as causing loss of bone around the extraction site.
While root canal therapy has a high degree of success, it is not 100% guaranteed. It is very important to have a permanent restoration (usually a crown) placed within 30 days of the root canal. If a permanent restoration is not placed, the tooth can fracture or further decay to the point where the root canal must be re-done or, worse, the tooth must be removed.
Reasons for Root Canal Therapy
| • | Decay has reached the tooth’s pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth) |
| • | Infection or abscess has developed inside the tooth or at the root tip |
| • | Injury or trauma to the tooth |
| • | Extreme wear due to bruxism (grinding) |
What Does Root Canal Therapy Involve?
A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by Dr. Greg Herkert. While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and isolated from the other teeth. Your Toledo dentist will then create a hole at the top of the tooth, and clean the infected pulp from inside the tooth. Medicine will be applied to remove any bacteria, and a temporary filling will be placed. When the tooth has had time to heal from the root canal treatment, you will need to return to our office to check the healing of the tooth. If the tooth has healed, then it will be ready to have a permanent crown placed to prevent any further decay or fracturing of the treated area.
At times the tooth requiring treatment has a complex root or the infection is such that it needs a specialist, called an endodontist, to examine and complete root canal therapy. Dr. Millet will work closely with our endodontic specialist to review your treatment case, send necessary records to their office, and place the crown after your root canal is completed. Our office staff will help coordinate your appointments, and help you understand your financial responsibility.
Bruxism & Mouthguards
Bruxism (teeth grinding) can cause moderate to severe long-term damage to teeth. Constant grinding wears down the surface of the tooth, exposing the soft dentin beneath the enamel. Some of the damage that can occur includes:
| • | Chipped teeth |
| • | Tooth flattening and tooth wear |
| • | Cracked tooth enamel |
| • | Cracked, loose or broken fillings |
| • | Tooth loss |
| • | Gum recession |
| • | Tooth collapse |
Bruxing can even cause a root fracture below the gum line, requiring a root canal and crown to restore the damaged tooth.
Mouthguards
When it comes to protecting your mouth, a mouthguard is an essential piece of athletic gear that should be part of your standard equipment from an early age. While collision and contact sports, such as boxing, are higher-risk sports for the mouth, you can experience a dental injury in non-contact activities too, such as gymnastics and skating.
There Are Three Types of Mouthguards
Custom-fitted: These are made specifically for you by your dentist. They may be more expensive than the other versions, but because they are customized, usually offer the best fit.
Stock: These are inexpensive and come pre-formed, ready to wear. However, they often don’t fit well. They can be bulky and can make breathing and talking difficult.
Boil and bite: These mouth protectors can be bought at many sporting goods stores and drugstores, and may offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. They are first softened in water (boiled), then inserted and allowed to adapt to the shape of your mouth.
The best mouthguard is one that has been custom made for your mouth by your dentist. However, if you can’t afford a custom-fitted mouthguard, you should still wear a stock mouthguard or a boil-and-bite mouthguard from the drugstore. Give us a call at (541) 336-2122 to learn more about your options.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition that affects how you breathe when sleeping. During sleep, normal breathing can be interrupted for 10 seconds or more hundreds of times during a single night. Untreated sleep apnea prevents you from getting enough deep, restorative sleep. Without enough deep sleep you may be sleepy, lack mental sharpness and be less productive. Long term health effects can be serious, including weight gain, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
| • | Loud, chronic snoring |
| • | Insomnia |
| • | Breathing pauses for long periods |
| • | Waking up often at night |
| • | Forgetfulness, irritability, depression |
Home Treatments for Light Sleep Apnea
| • | Avoid sleeping on your back, because your tongue is more likely to block your airway |
| • | Elevate your head using extra pillows or a body wedge |
| • | Open your nasal passage via breathing strips, saline nasal flush, or a nasal dilator |
| • | Lose weight |
| • | Exercise |
Treatments for Moderate to Severe Sleep Apnea
| • | Talk to a doctor trained in sleep apnea |
| • | Use supplemental oxygen while sleeping |
| • | Use a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure) machine |
| • | Oral appliances made by Dr. Millet’s office to help keep your airway open |
If you think you may have sleep apnea, please give us a call at (541) 336-2122. We can help identify and diagnose the severity of the sleep apnea and discuss the best treatment options for your unique situation.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are fixed appliances that will work to restore the structure and function of your teeth after tooth loss. These appliances are non-removable, so they will become a permanent part of your smile. There are many different types of bridges, and we can help you to choose the option that is right for your unique dental needs.
A traditional bridge is the most common type of bridge that is used to improve tooth loss, and it is made of metal and porcelain. The bridge contains two porcelain crowns fused to metal that will slip over two anchoring teeth found on either side of the artificial teeth. The bridge then fills the gap that was created due to tooth loss.
Reasons for Choosing a Fixed Bridge
There are numerous reasons that you might choose a fixed bridge to correct your tooth loss:
| • | Restore the smile |
| • | Improve your ability to speak and chew like normal |
| • | Maintain your normal face shape |
| • | Fill in the spaces left by missing teeth |
| • | Prevent the remaining teeth from shifting positions |
| • | Upgrade from removable dentures |
Getting Your Fixed Bridge
The process of getting your bridge will generally require at least two appointments with your dentist. Your teeth will be numbed to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure, and the anchoring teeth will then be prepared by having a thin portion of the enamel removed in order to make room for a crown. Molds will be made of your teeth to be sent into a dental lab, and the bridge is fabricated at this facility. You may also be able to wear a temporary bridge until your follow-up appointment, which will usually be scheduled about two weeks out.
At your next visit, we’ll remove your temporary bridge, and the new bridge will be checked for proper fit. Once it is determined that the appliance is ready, it will be bonded or cemented into place.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Bridges are created to be highly durable, and with proper care, they can last for several years. However, even normal wear can require them to need replacement, so be sure to follow-up with your dentist regularly to ensure that your appliance is still in good shape. You should also be sure to brush and floss properly in order to keep your remaining teeth healthy and avoid future tooth loss.
Composite Dental Bonding
Bonding is a procedure where we apply a tooth-colored composite material to a tooth, shape it, allow it to harden and polish it. It can be used in certain situations where a tooth has been damaged or become stained. These are generally minor repairs that can be resolved through this relatively inexpensive means rather than through a more costly dental procedure.
Here’s How it Works
Dr. Greg Herkert prepares the tooth surface so the bonding material will adhere. Once it has been applied, the dentist will shape it so it has a natural appearance. Then the material is allowed to harden, usually with the help of a light. Finally, the composite is polished and buffed so that the surface is smooth.
This is not a process that is recommended if you are a smoker as smoke causes staining. Also, the material is not as durable as porcelain veneers and crowns so it chips more easily; eventually it may require replacing.
Bonding is a perfectly adequate and more affordable solution to certain dental problems. Dental bonding can take less time to accomplish and may not even require anesthesia. Depending upon the issue, insurance may cover it.
Please don’t procrastinate if you have a dental problem but are worried about the time, cost or pain involved. Perhaps dental bonding can offer you a solution. Give us a call at (541) 336-2122 so we can discuss options with you.
Preventive & Diagnostic
A great smile is a huge asset in our social and professional lives.
Professional cleanings performed by a licensed dentist or hygienist are just as important to your dental health as daily brushing and flossing. Using specialized tools and training, your hygienist at Toledo Dental Care will remove:
| • | Plaque build-up from the surfaces of teeth. Bacteria in the mouth form plaque, which collects on teeth and causes decay, gum disease and gingivitis |
| • | Tartar from teeth surfaces. Tartar, or calculus, is plaque that has become hardened on the teeth; its removal requires scaling |
| • | Surface stains from teeth through polishing |
Some patients will require a deep cleaning due to gum disease and past periodontal treatments. Dr. Millet will review your past dental history and identify any issues you may need treatment for.
Examinations
Regular examinations, by Dr. Millet, help detect and prevent health issues before they become serious. Consistent dental check-ups help catch problems when they are small and easier to treat. Left unattended, small treatable problems become worse and may require more extensive, expensive procedures to repair. Dental examinations generally include the following:
| • | Gum disease screening |
| • | Oral cancer screening |
| • | Visual tooth decay evaluation |
| • | Gum pocket measurement and tracking |
| • | X-ray examination to detect: tooth decay, cysts, tumors, problems below the gums and other hidden issues |
Regular examinations by Dr. Millet are very important for your health. Remember, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” –Benjamin Franklin
X-rays (Radiographs)
Dental x-rays are a primary tool for early identification of dental problems. Your Toledo dentist can detect issues with x-rays before they become problems, saving you money in the long run by preventing the need for more expensive procedures or surgeries. X-rays are primarily used to detect internal tooth decay, cysts (fluid filled sacks at the base of your teeth), tumors, impacted teeth, and teeth that are still erupting.
Periodontal Health
One of the best ways to keep your gums from bleeding when you come in for a cleaning is to floss regularly. Brushing your teeth before or after flossing is less important than whether you floss or not.
Of course, impressing us with gums that don’t bleed isn’t really the point. Bleeding can indicate a need for improved gum maintenance and oral health habits.
Regular Periodontal Checkups Save Lives
Have you been diagnosed with periodontal disease? In addition to your regular dental checkups, it is a good idea for you to also have a yearly periodontal check-up. Once periodontal disease has progressed, it is often a matter of regular maintenance visits to help keep the disease in check.
Annual exams should include periodontal charting and comprehensive x-rays to monitor any bone loss that might have occurred. If you aren’t sure whether you have gum disease, schedule your check-up today and let us evaluate your gum and bone health.
Oral Cancer Screening
Your mouth is part of the oral cavity, which also includes your lips, cheek lining, gums, front part of your tongue, floor of the mouth and the hard palate (roof of your mouth). The throat (pharynx) starts at the soft part of the roof of your mouth and continues back into your throat. It includes the back section of your tongue as well as the base where the tongue attaches to the floor of your mouth.
During your dental visit, your dentist can talk to you about your health history and examine these areas for signs of mouth and/or throat cancer. Regular visits to your dentist can improve the chances that any suspicious changes in your oral health will be caught early, at a time when cancer can be treated more easily.
Symptoms of Mouth or Throat Cancer
| • | Sores that bleed easily or do not heal |
| • | Thick or hard spot or lump |
| • | Roughened or crusted area |
| • | Numbness, pain or tenderness |
| • | A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down |
Make sure to tell your dentist about any problems you have when chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your tongue or jaw.
At Toledo Dental Care in Toledo, our dentists will include a thorough oral cancer screening, including a VizLite scan, during your comprehensive exam.
Digital X-Rays
X-rays are a primary tool for early identification of dental problems. Detecting issues with x-rays before they become problematic can save you money in the long run. Early detection can help prevent the need for more extensive, expensive procedures or surgeries. X-rays are primarily used to detect:
| • | Internal tooth decay |
| • | Cysts (fluid filled sacks at the base of your teeth) |
| • | Tumors, both cancerous and non-cancerous |
| • | Impacted teeth |
| • | Teeth that are still coming in |
At Toledo Dental Care, we use digital x-rays, which have several advantages over traditional film based x-rays. Digital x-rays allow us to take x-rays with 1/5 of the radiation that you would receive from traditional dental x-rays. The worry of exposure to excess radiation is eliminated.
Large on-screen x-rays make patient communication more effective. The immediate observation of the images on the screen allows us to discuss your dental health quickly and accurately.
Digital radiography has greatly enhanced the practice of dentistry. It allows the patient and the doctor to see images of the teeth in higher resolution on a large format for easier detection of problems, all while decreasing the radiation exposure to the patient. The process we use further defines the radiograph, resulting in clinically meaningful images that are sharp, detailed and rich in contrast.
Images are available instantly after exposure, eliminating the wait and effort spent developing and mounting x-rays. If an image needs to be retaken, it can be done immediately. Digital format also allows us to send and receive your images electronically, allowing for a faster consultation with your dentist.
Intra and Extra-Oral Cameras
Patient education is something we take very seriously here at Toledo Dental Care. Knowing what is going on in your mouth means being able to properly take care of your mouth. We use cameras to help us understand growth patterns, identify potential abnormalities, and to identify areas of concern. Intra and extra-oral cameras have done a great job in terms of educating patients in the dental industry.
What is it?
An intra-oral camera is a small, toothbrush shaped/sized camera. The video taken with it is projected onto a monitor that we adjust so you may view the feed. We frequently use inter-oral cameras to show patients issues that have arisen within their mouth, since it is not easy to view much of your own mouth using a mirror. With the camera we are able to show you in high detail what is going on in your mouth.
What to Expect
The experience of having an intra-oral camera used is generally enjoyable and non-invasive. The camera is small enough that it can fit in your mouth the same way the head of a toothbrush might. It can be moved around in the mouth easily while taking video or pictures of the teeth and gums. We are able to show you images of your mouth in real time while we discuss any issues present.
What advantages does it provide?
The most obvious advantage intra-oral cameras provide is the immediate feedback and education for the patient. It can easily reveal oral conditions like cavities and gum disease. The patient benefits greatly from seeing what effects their oral hygiene habits (or lack thereof) have on their mouth. We are often able to make patients aware of issues while they are still reversible with the introduction of good habits.
If you would like to take a look into your own mouth give us a call at (541) 336-2122 and we will get you scheduled for an appointment today!
3D Imaging
At Toledo Dental Care, we utilize a cone beam system to take 3D images of your teeth. 3D imaging allows us to better understand the anatomy of your mouth, which is essential before we perform any type of corrective procedure. By using this state-of-the-art technology, our surgeons will be better prepared to accurately diagnose potential issues and develop the best possible treatment program for you.
How is 3D imaging different from a traditional x-ray?
A typical dental x-ray will just focus on the teeth, and for each image you’ll need one exposure. Therefore, to get the same picture as a 3D image, you’d need many exposures. 3D imaging shows considerably more than a simple 2D x-ray, as this newer technology will provide more accurate and complete visual information from every angle. Additionally, the data can be easily shared and duplicated without the worry of film getting lost.
How does it work?
Our 3D imaging system is essentially a digital x-ray that is mounted to a rotating arm. Similar to a digital camera, the system uses digital technology rather than traditional film to record your images. It’s referred to as cone beam technology because the scanner will project x-rays in the form of a cone-shaped beam.
When it is time for your scan, you’ll sit in a chair, and the scanner will move in a circle around your head. After one revolution, the scanner will have gathered all of the necessary data. You don’t need to make any special preparations before your scan.
Next, your technician can bring up any view that they need on their computer, whether this is a 2D, 3D, or panoramic view of your whole mouth. Your surgeon will be able to view the images from any angle and use different magnifications to zoom in on problem areas, specifically those with the bones, airways, tissues, nerves and teeth. This information is essential for evaluating or planning proper treatment.
What happens after the scan?
After the scan, the information will be used to develop a proper treatment plan for your oral or facial issue. We’ll use this technology to easily and quickly share images of the problem area with your referring dentist or physician. This will allow your doctors to work together on your care to deliver a positive treatment experience.
Cosmetic
We provide the full range of dental treatments, from a simple scale.
ZOOM! Teeth Whitening
Whitening the teeth is one of the easiest and most noticeable changes that you can make to improve the appearance of your smile. Whitening, or bleaching, is a non-invasive and simple dental treatment that will alter the color of your tooth enamel to make your smile look whiter and brighter.
For many people, dull or stained teeth are the primary concerns that they have about their smile. At-home teeth whitening systems are the most popular method for correcting this problem. However, if you have older fillings, crowns, and other restorations, you need to be aware that these whitening systems will only work to improve the appearance of the natural tooth enamel, so you won’t notice any changes on those restorations. It is recommended that you have those restorations replaced after bleaching your teeth so they match the new and improved color of the rest of your smile.
Reasons to Whiten Your Teeth
There are numerous reasons why you might choose to whiten your teeth:
| • | Brown or yellow stains due to smoking or your diet |
| • | Discoloration due to fluorosis (too much fluoride during the development of the teeth) |
| • | Stains due to certain medications |
| • | Normal wear of the enamel |
The Teeth Whitening Process
If you choose to whiten your teeth with a home whitening system, you will generally need two dental appointments. At your first visit, Dr. Greg Herkert will take molds of your teeth to create customized plastic trays to hold the whitening solution.
After your trays have been fabricated, you’ll have a second appointment where we’ll make sure they fit properly. You’ll receive instructions on how to wear the trays for optimal results. In most cases, this will involve wearing them either overnight or twice per day for several weeks.
Caring for Your Whitened Teeth
When whitening your teeth, it is completely normal to experience sensitivity. Fortunately, this discomfort should stop once you have finished your bleaching treatment, but if it doesn’t, sensitivity toothpaste can help with the symptoms.
It is important to remember that teeth whitening isn’t a permanent procedure, so to get the most out of your results, you should be sure to avoid foods and beverages that could stain your smile, including: wine, tea, soda and coffee. If you are a smoker, you should also consider giving up the habit. Additionally, you will likely need an annual touch-up in order to maintain your beautiful, white smile.
Clear Invisalign® Aligners
Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn. Aligners are clear and look similar to tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made to fit better while moving teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as “contact lenses for teeth.”
For years, orthodontists and dentists have used removable appliances for limited treatment. Today, with the application of computer technology and custom manufacturing, Invisalign® treats a broader range of cases with greater precision.
Invisalign® uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan, from the initial position to the final desired position, from which a series of custom-made clear “aligners” are produced. Each “aligner” moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then is replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.
Clear, Removable, and Comfortable
With Invisalign®, you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing. Unlike braces, you can eat and drink what you want during treatment, because you can remove the trays. You can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene. Because there are no metal brackets or wires to cause mouth irritation, you spend less time in the doctor’s chair getting adjustments.
Invisalign® allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
Dental Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening (AKA: “crown-elongation” or “crown-extension”) is a surgical procedure that is done when the tooth is too short to provide adequate retention for a restoration (usually a crown).
When a tooth has a deep cavity, a crown and buildup are usually needed to restore the tooth. If the cavity extends too far below the gums, it becomes impossible to predictably make a crown that will last for any length of time. Performing crown lengthening where indicated improves the prognosis for the tooth.
Crown lengthening nearly always involves removing and re-contouring some of the bone around the tooth. This results in more tooth structure above the gums and smooth flowing gum contours. Not every tooth that needs a crown also needs crown lengthening surgery, it is only necessary when a deep cavity or crack is present.
Reasons for Crown Lengthening
| • | To be able to keep a tooth that would otherwise be removed |
| • | Provide gum contours that make the tooth easy-to-clean again |
| • | Improve the appearance of the gum line (in some cases) |
| • | Provide a restored tooth that lasts longer |
What Does Crown Lengthening Involve?
First, the dentist or periodontist will thoroughly numb the tooth or teeth needing crown lengthening. During this procedure, excess gum and bone tissue is reshaped to expose more of the natural tooth. After the procedure your dentist can now prepare the tooth for a functional, long lasting crown. As always, proper brushing and flossing is key to insuring the maximum life of your new crown.
Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are very thin pieces of durable tooth shaped porcelain that are custom-made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.
Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile. They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many cosmetic dental conditions for the front teeth.
As with most dental restorations, veneers may someday need replacement; however, they are still very durable and will last many years, giving you a long-lasting, beautiful smile.
Reasons for Porcelain Veneers
| • | Crooked teeth |
| • | Misshapen teeth |
| • | Severely discolored or stained teeth |
| • | Teeth that are too small or large |
| • | Unwanted or uneven spaces |
| • | Worn or chipped teeth |
What Does Porcelain Veneers Involve?
Receiving veneers usually requires two visits to complete the process. The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer. A mold or impression of each tooth is taken and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and Dr. Greg Herkert.
On the second visit the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond. Bonding cement is then placed between each tooth and veneer and a special light is used to harden and set the bond.
After your visit you will receive care instructions for your veneers. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your beautiful veneers.