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Invisalign® is a relatively new cosmetic procedure yet is quickly growing in popularity. Anyone looking to have this procedure is bound to have a number of accompanying questions, and here are just a few of the most common ones.

Dental implants are growing in popularity, largely due to their effectiveness at repairing people’s smiles. But can anyone benefit this procedure, and who makes the ideal candidates?

Whether you have a dental phobia or you have a medical condition that makes it hard for you to be still, it is important for you to know more about sedation dentistry.

Invisalign® is a nearly invisible alternative to dental braces for straightening teeth and improving bite and spacing. Because the aligners are transparent and removable, they are particularly popular among young adults.

Zoom!® teeth whitening is an effective professional dental treatment that whitens teeth to give patients a beautiful white smile. With treatment, your teeth could look several shades lighter. Here are some frequently asked questions about Zoom teeth whitening.

What is Zoom!® teeth whitening?

Zoom!® teeth whitening is a bleaching process that lightens the discoloration of teeth’s enamel and dentin. It uses a special designed peroxide gel and a light for maximum results.

How long does Zoom!® teeth whitening take?

The complete treatment takes a little less than an hour including preparation time and the bleaching procedure.

How does the Zoom!® teeth whitening process work?

Zoom!® teeth whitening uses a light activated whitening gel that contains hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is activated by the Zoom!® light which causes oxygen to enter the tooth enamel and dentin and bleaches the colored stains while leaving the structure of the tooth unchanged. The average improvement seen by Zoom!® teeth whitening patients is up to eight shades lighter.

What is the Zoom!® teeth whitening procedure like?

It is similar to a cleaning; patients recline comfortably and can watch television or listen to music while the dentist applies the treatment.

How long do Zoom!® teeth whitening results last?

With proper dental care after the Zoom!® treatment your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. To maintain maximum results long after the treatment touchup gels are available from your dentist in a professional strength formula.

Is Zoom!® teeth whitening safe?

Clinical studies have shown that Zoom!® teeth whitening is safe and effective for the majority of patients. Zoom!® whitening is one of the safest whitening procedures available for adults but is not recommended for children under 13.

Are there any side effects to the Zoom!® teeth whitening treatment?

The most common side effect to Zoom!® teeth whitening is sensitivity during the treatment. Occasionally some patients experience a minor tingling sensation immediately after the procedure but these side effects do not last long.

Who will benefit from Zoom!® teeth whitening?

Almost anyone can benefit from Zoom!® teeth whitening but results will vary from person to person depending on what type of stains they have on their teeth and their level of discoloration. The Zoom!® teeth whitening treatment may not be as effective for some patients as it is for others and your cosmetic dentist can determine what type of results you can expect. For more information on Zoom!® teeth whitening as well as Invisalign®, dental implants (implant dentistry), porcelain veneers, dental bridges and crowns, and more, we encourage you to visit our cosmetic dentistry office in Abilene, Texas.

There are many different dental care treatments that you can turn to if you want to improve your smile. Below you will find some basic information on some of the most popular cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry treatments that people turn to in order to enhance their smiles.

Teeth Whitening

Stained teeth can pose a problem if you want to have a nice, wonderful smile. There are a number of substances that cause teeth to become stained (e.g., tobacco products, coffee, tea, soft drinks, wine, the natural aging process) so it’s good to know there is a professional treatment to enhance your smile. Professional-grade teeth whitening can lighten your teeth by several shades, restoring the luster and appearance of your smile.

Porcelain Veneers

Chipped teeth, cracked teeth, severely stained teeth, and crooked teeth can all harm the appearance of your smile. Thankfully there’s porcelain veneers. These wafer-thin ceramic shells are able to mask a number of different dental imperfections, making your smile look refreshed and wonderful for years to come.

Invisalign®

If you have crooked teeth, you may immediately think that braces are the only option. That isn’t always the case. If you have a certain degree of crookedness to your teeth, you may be a good candidate for Invisalign®, which are a series of plastic aligners that can gradually improve the straightness of your teeth.

Dental Implants

Missing teeth can run a smile and even cause other health problems down the road. If you are missing some teeth, the remaining teeth may shift out of place due to the spaces left behind. One of the most effective ways to remedy problems with missing teeth is dental implants. These artificial tooth roots are capped by natural-looking crowns and appear and function just like a natural tooth.

Sedation Dentistry

If multiple treatments are required and you experience some degree of dental anxiety or nervousness, you may be a good candidate to undergo sedation dentistry, which will ease your anxiety and help your dentist complete the necessary treatment with as little discomfort as possible. For more information on any of the above dental care treatments as well as others that can benefit your or your family visit our Abilene, Texas cosmetic dentistry office to schedule a consultation.

Your smile is one of the first thing people notices about you. If you have dental problems, though, you may be reluctant to smile or show your teeth. On top of that, crooked teeth or missing teeth can have a negative impact on your ability to chew or speak. If you have some sort of dental problem, your dentist will be able to assist you in some way. Below is a lost of common dental problems along with typical treatments for these problems.

Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth and misaligned teeth can cause a number of aesthetic and functional problems. If your teeth are just slightly misaligned or crooked, porcelain veneers can help even them out and make your smile look even. If you have more significant misalignment, you may need more invasive treatment, such as traditional braces or Invisalign aligners. The latter of these is virtually invisible and is a popular option today for those who wish to avoid the stigma and discomfort sometimes associated with metal braces.

Chipped and Damaged Teeth

Chips, cracks, and other forms of damage to the teeth can truly hamper the appearance of your smile. They can even prevent you from eating certain foods or cause speech impediments. In these cases, porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and dental bonding are often considered the best options. Your dentist will help determine the best possible option for you.

Discolored Teeth

If your teeth are yellowed, stained, or otherwise discolored, you will feel less inclined to show your teeth or smile. Professional teeth whitening systems are the best bet you have for whitening your teeth and improving the overall appearance of your smile. The effects of professional whitening can be enhanced through repeat treatments, proper dental hygiene, avoiding certain foods and drinks, and at-home or over-the-counter tooth whitening options.

Missing Teeth

Missing teeth are serious problems, and not just aesthetically. They can cause speech impediments, have a negative affect on your ability to chew, and if you are missing teeth, the teeth adjacent to the gaps can shift, causing your remaining teeth to become crooked. In such cases, the best treatment options are dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures. Each of these options can address the aesthetic and functional problems that are caused by missing teeth. For more information on dental care treatments, visit our Abilene, Texas cosmetic dentistry office to learn more.

Invisalign braces are becoming more popular everyday and the reason is the advantages they offer over traditional braces. They do the job as quickly if not quicker than traditional braces and in the process, they are more comfortable. They are less trouble and allow for better care of your teeth while you are wearing braces. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are clear removable braces. They do the same job of aligning your teeth without the unattractive look of traditional braces. Invisalign braces are invisible braces that are molded and designed for your teeth. Each set of braces is specifically designed to move your teeth into a specified position where the next set will take over and move your teeth to the next position. Each set of Invisalign braces are worn for two to three weeks, and then changed to the next set. There are many differences between traditional braces, and Invisalign braces that bring joy to people that need braces. For one thing, Invisalign braces can be removed if you like for special occasions. The one thing to be aware of is if you want to achieve the results that you want in the time period that your dentist said you need to wear them exactly as he has prescribed. If you leave them off too much you may be setting the timetable for your treatment back. Another critical feature of Invisalign braces that attracts many people to use them is the fact that they have smooth edges. There are no wires to irritate other parts of your mouth. Also, it will be much easier to maintain and properly clean your teeth. Invisalign braces have been found to be more effective than traditional braces at correcting the various problems that cause people to need braces in the first place. They are more effective at correcting an overbite, or an under bite. They are also a very effective treatment for teeth that have gaps between them cross bite and teeth that are too close together. If you have any of these troubles with your teeth, Invisalign is the answer for you. For additional information on Invisalign and other treatment options such as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and implant dentistry, visit our Abilene, Texas cosmetic dentistry office to learn more.

Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option that can remedy a wide array of problems, such as tooth discoloration, chips, cracks, and misalignments. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about porcelain veneers.

Why choose porcelain veneers over other cosmetic dentistry procedures?

Porcelain veneers provide you with an immediate effect. You’ll feel as though you’ve found an entirely new smile in an extremely short amount of time. The porcelain veneers last between 10 and 15 years, and require only the regular maintenance of brushing and flossing to keep looking good.

Why are porcelain veneers recommended for some people over teeth whitening procedures?

Teeth whitening doesn’t work for some people because they are sensitive to the chemicals in the bleaching products. For others, staining is so deep it can’t be bleached out. Porcelain veneers also have the added bonus of correcting some tooth shape problems without braces.

How long will it take to have porcelain veneers applied to my teeth?

First, you’ll have a consultation with your dental professional and be scheduled for a porcelain veneer application. Porcelain veneers are usually applied in two, 1 1/2 hour sessions with your dentist.

Are there any side effects from having porcelain veneers applied?

While teeth are usually not altered or removed before the procedure, your dental practitioner will tell you beforehand how much alteration needs to be done to your original smile. Some people experience minor tooth sensitivity after the procedure, but this usually passes quickly.

Will I have trouble talking after receiving my porcelain veneers?

You’ve created an entirely new smile, so your teeth will feel a little funny in your mouth until you grow accustomed to them. Some people find they have trouble pronouncing certain words, or that they sound different than they used to. Your cosmetic dentistry practitioner can adjust the veneers to reduce this effect.

What if I grind my teeth or suffer from bruxism?

Your new porcelain veneers can be damaged by grinding your teeth, clenching your teeth, or if you suffer from bruxism. Ask your dental professional about a custom mouth guard to wear while sleeping to protect your new smile from chipping and cracking caused by grinding your teeth. To learn more about porcelain veneers as well as dental implants, Invisalign, and more, schedule an appointment with a skilled cosmetic dentist in Abilene, Texas.