Month: May 2019

3 Common Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry

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With all of the changes to dental care over the years, coupled with our society’s general tendencies to emphasize our appearance or looks, there’s no doubt that the demand for cosmetic dentistry has dramatically increased.

Your Holland dentist wants you to know that if you have questions about cosmetic treatments, this blog is an excellent place to start. Here are just a few of the more common questions we hear from patients and non-patients alike.

Question #1: Do cosmetic dentists have specialized training?

Some dentists have more advanced cosmetic training than their peers, so it’s always a good idea to do some homework before you commit to anyone or anything. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry suggests you take a look at a dentist’s before and after shots to see their previous complete work, ask about their continuing education efforts, and read references and reviews if they’re available.

Question #2: What are some of the most common treatments people ask for?

At our dental office in Holland, we meet so many patients of all ages and walks of life who are ready for a smile makeover with cosmetic dentistry. Sometimes we can achieve this with just one type of treatment, but most cases require a mixture of dental procedures to get the results you’re looking for and deserve. To revamp the aesthetics of their smile, patients often ask for:

1 – Bonding – This tooth-colored material is expertly placed on teeth to help them be more uniform and free from gaps or discolorations. Slightly decayed or chipped teeth can often be fixed with bonding because it can cover the entire surface of your tooth for a change in shape and color.

2 – Whitening – Teeth whitening is probably the most widely recognized cosmetic dental treatment because it’s something we can do in the dentist’s office or the comfort of our own home. This can help lighten and brighten your smile for any big occasion.

3 – Veneers – Usually thin and made of porcelain or plastic, your dentist places veneers over the front of your teeth for an immediate upgrade to the shape and color of your smile. Veneers can help you say goodbye to unevenly spaced, chipped, broken, or discolored teeth.

4- Crowns – Also known as caps, crowns are used to help fix deteriorating teeth by covering your tooth for better appearance and function. They tend to have the longest life expectancy compared to other popular cosmetic restorations.

Question #3: How long will my results last and how much will they cost?

We understand that cost is important when considering any investment, especially in your smile and health. It’s impossible to throw out any numbers as to how much your cosmetic dental care would cost because we don’t know what procedures you’re interested in or would make a good candidate for.

Your smile overhaul should last for many years. It all depends on how well you take care of your teeth at home and if you keep your regular dental checkups and cleanings. You’ll want to make sure you’re not grinding your teeth or using them as tools to open packaging, etc. because it can damage your new dental work.

We hope you’ll talk to your dentist in Holland about how cosmetic dentistry can change your smile and your life. We’re proud to offer trusted cosmetic treatments in the comfort and privacy of our office with a team you know and trust.

3 of the Top Concerns about Pregnancy and Dentistry

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Finding out that you’re pregnant is one of life’s most joyous (and scary) events you can endure. Everyone at our dental office in Holland wants to send plenty of well wishes to all of the parents out there who are expecting a blessing of their own.

We wanted to set aside this blog to talk to the moms out there. Because whether you’re new to pregnancy and experiencing every special moment for the very first time, or a seasoned parental pro who knows exactly how this all goes, it’s essential not to put off your upcoming cleanings or treatments. We understand pregnancy brings up a lot of new concerns about your health and wellbeing, including taking care of your smile. Let’s talk about some of the most common concerns we hear from our patients about going to the dentist during pregnancy.

Common Concern #1: What if I need dental X-rays? Are they safe?

Most dental offices are equipped with state-of-the-art digital X-rays, eliminating the possibility of  overexposure to harmful radiation for you and your baby. If you’re experiencing a dental issue, it’s advisable to get the necessary X-rays to fix the problem before it poses any risk of harming your developing fetus.

Common Concern #2: My gums are really bleeding. Should I call my Holland dentist?

If you’re pregnant and reading this, there’s no doubt in our mind that you would agree that being pregnant can change your body, usually in part due to fluctuations in your hormones. The American Dental Association says that as many as 50 percent of pregnant women can develop “pregnancy gingivitis.” It usually goes away after your child arrives, but it’s important to brush and clean your teeth regularly. If still concerned about bleeding in your gums, you can always reach out to us for help.

Common Concern #3: I’ve got morning, afternoon, and night sickness. Should I tell my dentist?

Sickness and vomiting during pregnancy are one of the most common side effects that most women tend to experience early on in their pregnancy. When you get sick, excess stomach acid can eat away at your tooth enamel leading to decay. Remember these helpful tips you can use at home to help protect your teeth from acid:

  • Wait to Brush. Brushing immediately after vomiting can lead to damage. Acid weakens the enamel, and if you brush while the enamel is soft, you can cause scratches that bacteria can hide in. So wait at least an hour after getting sick to brush.
  • Rinse with Water. While you’re waiting for the right time to brush, it’s a good idea to rinse your mouth out with water initially. Swishing water around in the mouth and spitting it out can remove a lot of acid.
  • Keep Drinking Water. You’re already drinking a lot of water, so keep on doing it. The more water you drink, the less acid will stick around in your mouth.
  • Scrape the Tongue. Don’t forget about your tongue. After vomiting, get a tongue scraper and gently run it down your tongue. You can successfully remove a lot of acid that would actually end up on your teeth.

If you’re really having a hard time and are worried about your smile, contact our dental office in Holland as soon as you’re feeling up to it. Seeing your dentist is crucial during your pregnancy, so let us work with you to determine what your needs are and how to proceed with your care during this special time in your life. We’re always here to help!

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