Cosmetic Dentistry Blog at My Dentist USA: August 2008

What are the different types of dental crowns?

Metals used in dental crowns include gold alloy or a base-metal alloy such as nickel or chromium. In comparison with other crown types less tooth structure has to be removed which makes this a very big added benefit for you. They are the most durable out of all the dental crown types, and rarely chip or break. The biggest negative of this type of dental crown is the metallic color. They are ideal for molars in the back of your mouth, that are not visible.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns are not as durable as the metal dental crowns, however, they can be matched, color wise, to your teeth which is an added benefit. The dental crown's porcelain portion can chip or break off. These crowns can be a good choice for front or back teeth.

All-ceramic or all-porcelain dental crowns give you the best possible match for tooth color. They are, however, not very durable and they wear down opposing teeth a little more than the other crowns. All-ceramic dental crowns are a good choice for front teeth

Labels: Dental Crowns

12:36 PM

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Dental Implants: What to Expect?

Initially, you have to consult with you cosmetic dentist to find out if you are right for the procedure. You will need to have healthy gums and enough bone in the area to hold the implant. You also must practice good oral hygiene. Just like all cosmetic dental procedures, each case is unique and some people will be, and some won't be a good candidate for this procedure. The only way to find out is by consulting with a cosmetic dentist, who can give you all your possible options.

The cosmetic dentist will place a tooth root implant, a small titanium post, into your bone socket of the absent tooth. It will take anywhere for 5 - 11 weeks for this to heal. While healing, the jawbone grows around the tooth root implant, which secures it into the jaw.

Once the dental implant is secure in the jawbone, an abutment (a tiny connector post) is attached to securely clutch the new tooth. In order for your cosmetic dentist to create your new tooth, he/she will make a molding or impression of your mouth, so a replica of you bite can be made, and your new tooth will be built around that. Your replacement tooth, a dental crown, is then attached. Your cosmetic dentist is able to match the color of your new tooth or teeth, to your natural teeth, for a natural look. The replacement tooth will feel natural, look natural and function naturally.

Labels: Dental Implants

3:42 PM

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Get the Smile You Want With Cosmetic Dentistry

Everyone wants a beautiful smile. Today's dentistry lets us have the smile we choose, not just the smile we were born with. Cosmetic dentistry is all about getting the smile that you want. It goes beyond the procedures that a person needs for a healthy mouth, and provides choices for all of us to improve the appearance of our smiles.

Your smile makes a major impact on your first impression. What do other people see in your smile? An attractive smile makes us look and feel youthful, healthy, successful and confident. A positive change in your smile will have a dramatic effect, helping you personally, socially and professionally.

Cosmetic dentistry was once thought reserved for celebrities, who always need to look their best. Today, the latest in cosmetic dentistry is available right in our community, making it accessible to people from all walks of life. What's keeping you from your dream smile?

Click here to read this entire article provided by Las Vegas Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Michael Miyasaki

Labels: Las Vegas Cosmetic Surgeon

3:44 PM

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Orthodontics: What to Expect

Your orthodontist will consult with you, and ask questions about your health and goals, to find out if you are a good candidate for the surgery. The orthodontist will also perform an exam, gather impressions of your teeth, take digital images of your face and teeth, and also take x-rays of your mouth. This is all very necessary as this will give you and the orthodontist realistic expectations of what this procedure can do for you. This information helps the orthodontist create a plan based on how best to treat your specific case.

The treatment time varies on a case by case basis, and is completely dependent on the severity of the problem. Key things that influence that, are the distance your teeth must travel, the overall health of your teeth, the amount of room available in your mouth and if you, the patient, follow the rules or guidelines given to you by the orthodontist.

Labels: orthodontics

3:48 PM

Monday, August 25, 2008

Can Teeth Whitening Become an Addiction?

For seekers of physical perfection who live by the slogan, "You can never be too thin," there's a new one to chew on: "Your teeth can never be too white."

Some are taking the attainment of white teeth to the extreme by exclusively -- and excessively -- using over-the-counter teeth-whitening products.

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Labels: Teeth Whitening

2:38 PM

Friday, August 22, 2008

Cosmetic Dentistry Dictionary

When it comes to anything dental, there are so many technical terms used that anyone who is not well versed in the cosmetic dentistry profession would find themselves running for a dictionary every other word.

Luckily, My Dentist USA is one step ahead.

If you find yourself curious as to what a word means or interested in a specific dental procedure, look up the My Dentist USA Dictionary and start your path to Cosmetic Dental Enlightenment today!

And if you run into a word that we don't have covered, let us know, we'd be more than happy to add it to our list.

Anything from Abutment to Xerostomia, My Dentist USA has got you covered. Visit the My Dentist USA Cosmetic Dentistry Dictionary today to find meaning

Labels: cosmetic dentistry, Dictionary

12:33 PM

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Steps to Conquering Dental Anxiety

1. Take control of your life.

You are in charge of yourself and your future. No one else is in control of your life. You are! Say to yourself 'I am going to address this problem and find a solution through seeking out a health care provider that I trust and that I am comfortable with.'

2. Choose a dentist who understands your needs and is willing to help you.

You need a dentist who is determined to provide the finest dental care in an understanding and positive environment where you are the primary focus and a highly professional staff that focuses on you -- the patient. Your dentist should care about each patient rather than how many patients he or she can see each day. The goal should be your care and comfort. Consider finding a dentist who has the confidence of other professionals around them. Go to a dentist that other doctors and dentists choose as their own dentist. What really matters is that you consider the problem in need of resolution and address it.

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Labels: Dental Anxiety

1:29 PM

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Gingivitis - Oral Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis is the most common periodontal disease, affecting 90% of the population, including our local Lexington area community. It is an infection of the gums caused by bacteria that form plaque.

In small amounts (when it is newly formed), plaque is invisible and relatively harmless. But when left to accumulate, it increases in volume and the proportion of harmful bacteria grows.

These bacteria release toxins that result in inflammation of the gum tissue. Eventually, the plaque hardens and forms hard deposits called calculus or tartar.

Information provided by Lexington Cosmetic Dentist, Anthony S. Feck, DMD

Labels: Gingivitis, periodontal disease

3:22 PM

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Cosmetic Dentistry Articles

Gathering information on cosmetic dentistry can be tough. That's why My Dentist USA makes it easy for you to find a collection of great articles all in one spot. Everything from, Teeth Whitening, Veneers, Bridges, Crowns, Dental Implants and more can be found in the articles section at My Dentist USA.

Visit My Dentist USA, click on the "Articles" link on the top navigation bar and you're on your way on reading up on all the cosmetic dentistry procedures offered by dentists.

Start reading today!

Labels: Cosmetic Dentistry Articles

1:42 PM

Monday, August 18, 2008

Dental Bridges - What can you expect?

During the first visit with you cosmetic dentist, the teeth are prepared. Preparation initially involves the removal of a portion of the enamel allowing room for a crown to be placed over it. The second step your cosmetic dentist will take is to take an impression of your teeth, which serves as a clay model for the laboratory, who makes your bridge. Usually, your cosmetic dentist will make a temporary bridge for you to shield the bare teeth and gums, while the laboratory is making your dental bridge.

learn more

Labels: Dental Bridges

4:02 PM

Friday, August 15, 2008

Advantages and Disadvantages of Teeth Whitening

Main Advantages:

Many people associate whiter teeth with beauty and a healthier lifestyle.
Quick results
More youthful look
99.7% of American believe a smile is an important social aspect.

Main Disadvantages:

Sometimes you will have sore gums.
Sometimes your teeth will be sore for a short period of time.
Some people see it as a disadvantage because the change can be noticeable, to people who see you everyday.

Labels: Teeth Whitening

11:27 AM

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Find a Dentist on My Dentist USA

It's bad enough to even have to think about going to the dentist, especially if you're afraid, but to add to the anxiety by having to go through the trouble of finding the right dentist can be even more frightening.

My Dentist USA is here to help!

You can start by using our Dentist Search to find a highly qualified and hand selected dentist near you. You can search by zip code, the dentist's name or simply by choosing the state you live in and going from there.

Finding a dentist has never been easier!

Visit My Dentist USA today to find the perfect dentist near you!

Labels: Dentist Search

2:12 PM

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Confronting Gum Disease

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, gum disease is the most prevalent disease in the world today. Many researchers suspect that gum disease may also be directly linked to heart disease and strokes. Unfortunately, it is perhaps the least diagnosed and treated of all diseases of comparable magnitude. The biggest reason for this may be that it is a somewhat silent disease, and pain and discomfort only occur in its latter stages. By that time, significant bone loss has already occurred.

Gum disease is caused by specific strains of bacteria. There are special ways that a patient can be tested for these bacteria in the dental office. New technology allows us to test for them before damage occurs. Genetics are also another predisposing factor. Genetic testing is available, yet has not been proven to be particularly advantageous.

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Labels: gum disease

3:22 PM

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

How natural will my cosmetic dentist make my teeth look? Will people notice I had this procedure done?

Every single case is 100% unique. Dramatic differences (you are missing a tooth, and a cosmetic dentist fixes that) are noticeable. However, our cosmetic dentists are trained specifically to keep this in mind, knowing that this is a huge decision on your part, and the more natural your teeth look, the better. Funny as it is, our recent poll of patients showed that the top 3 questions/statements after the procedure asked by friends and coworkers were:

a. Have you lost weight?
b. You seem to be full of energy all of a sudden, have you been working out?
c. Is that a new outfit?

It is not uncommon for some patients to be so overjoyed they cry, hug their nurse or dentist! Patients self confidence typically sky rocket, feeling more outgoing, more social, and also showing more and more of there new smile. Business professionals brag about quicker career growth, the list is endless. It really is incredible how much a new smile can change your life, both short term and long term.

Labels: Cosmetic Dentist

4:15 PM

Friday, August 8, 2008

Women Have Better Dental Habits

In a nationwide survey, from the American Dental Association, based on telephone interviews with 1,014 adults conducted in December 2003 it was found that:

25% of those surveyed brush their teeth after every meal, reflecting a steady increase. In 2001, that number was 15%; in 2000, it was 18%; and in 1997, it was 12%.
One in five -- 19% -- brush their teeth once a day (almost the same percentage as previous years).
53% brush their teeth twice a day -- a drop. In 2001, it was 60%, in 2000, it was 63%, and in 1996, it was 64%.
Women were more likely than men to brush teeth after every meal: 29% of women vs. 21% of men.
Men were more likely to brush just once a day: 25% of men vs. 13% of women.
Women were more likely to have a dentist than men: 89% of women vs. 75% of men.
As for daily dental floss use, 51% use it, up slightly from 48% in 1997.

Maybe it's time men started practicing oral hygiene. Are you a male that admittedly needs to start developing better oral hygiene habits? Start by visiting My Dentist USA today to get all the information you need for that sharper smile.

Labels: Dental Habits

1:40 PM

Thursday, August 7, 2008

What is the difference between DDS and DMD, after the dentist's name?

The acronyms stand for:

DDS - Doctor of Dental Surgery
DMD - Doctor of Dental Medicine

This designates the degree awarded to the dentist, from the dental school, upon graduation. There is no difference between the two, as both the DMD and DDS have the exact same education. Both degrees use the same curriculum requirements set by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation. To restate, the only difference is the title given by each particular university, as the educational requirements are the exact same.

Visit My Dentist USA today to find the most qualified dentist in your area!

Labels: DDS, DMD

4:03 PM

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Tampa Cosmetic Dentist - Dr. Richard M. Kernagis

Dr. Kernagis wants his patients to receive every benefit and option that the latest advances in technology can offer. In addition, Dr. Kernagis devotes many hours annually to continuing education so that he can offer his patients a level of the utmost skill and knowledge in the field of cosmetic dentistry.

Click here to learn more about Dr. Kernagis

Labels: Tampa Cosmetic Dentist

3:51 PM

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)

Does your mouth feel dry at mealtime? Do you have trouble eating dry foods? Is swallowing difficult? Do you need to moisten your mouth often or sip liquids often? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be one of the many people who suffer from xerostomia, also known as dry mouth.

If you suffer from xerostomia continue reading the article on My Dentist USA.

Labels: dry mouth

3:49 PM

Monday, August 4, 2008

What types of problems does Cosmetic Dentistry Improve?

If your teeth are dark or worn and make you look older, if gaps or chips make you feel self-conscious, or if crooked or discolored teeth stop you from smiling fully, Cosmetic Dentistry can help. The negative effects of abnormal gum tissue or out-of-date dental treatment are also problems that can be corrected with Cosmetic Dentistry.

Answer provided by Tulsa Laser Eye Surgeon, Dr. Jerome Cha

Labels: Tulsa Laser Eye Surgeon

2:32 PM

Friday, August 1, 2008

Dissecting the Implant Procedure

Implant dentistry involves careful planning and highly trained and experienced dentist(s). The dentist must first discuss with the patient what their goals are, and then must give the patient all of their options, expected outcome, risks and benefits. The medical and social histories of the patient are also important. Diseases that affect the immune system such as diabetes, and habits that reduce blood flow and healing such as smoking, must be identified because they can reduce the success of implant surgery.

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