Questions and Answers About Your Dental Health

My teeth are stained and yellowed from age. Can anything be done?

Advances in cosmetic dentistry have made it possible to offer several whitening treatment alternatives. Dr. Mishoulam will discuss these options with you to help determine which of these whitening procedures will work best for you.

Cosmetic whitening treatments vary from several hours to several weeks depending on the type of whitening solution and technique that is selected. If an in-office whitening procedure is selected, whitening appointments are usually scheduled one week apart and continue until you and Dr. Mishoulam decide this is the level of whiteness that should be reached.

For those patients that select a special formula for at-home whitening, a custom fitted plastic tray is used. Dr. Mishoulam will determine how long it should be worn for each treatment.

Can not treating my gum disease affect my overall health?

Recent research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association indicates a link between periodontal disease and heart attacks, with additional research being conducted to identify potential associations between poor periodontal health and other medical conditions, such as diabetes and stroke.

What materials are used to make crowns and bridges today?

Bridges and crowns can be made of all porcelain, porcelain over precious metal,or a new zirconia material . We have samples of all of the above in the office. Dr. Mishoulam will be happy to discuss which one is better for you. We also encourage your input into the choice of shade!

What are the benefits of natural color fillings?

If you need to restore a decayed tooth, consider a natural color filling. They are made from resin composites blended to match the color of existing teeth. They blend with surrounding teeth and enhance a youthful appearance.

The process of applying the natural color filling is similar to a silver filling. Once the decay is removed the tooth is prepared to accept the filling. The dentist applies several layers of the composite, which is chemically hardened and cured with a special light. The filling is then polished to complete the process.

How should I determine the right cosmetic dentist for me?

Set up an appointment with the cosmetic dentist you want to meet and interview. At this initial appointment discuss your needs, concerns and your options. Find out what he or she recommends to improve your smile.

Ask to see “before and after” photographs of his or her cosmetic dental work. Once you examine his or her work, you can decide if you want to begin a treatment plan.

What can be done about the gap between my two front teeth?

There are a number of options to correct this problem. Your cosmetic dentist may suggest porcelain veneers, crowns or bonding depending upon the severity of the problem.

Why should I wear a night guard on my teeth?

A night time appliance can help keep teeth from moving, protect restorations and protect teeth from wear damage caused by grinding or clenching while you sleep. A plastic night guard is easy to put on and easy to remove without causing any discomfort.

Is flossing really necessary today?

Even though the newer toothbrushes are more effective in removing plaque than the manual toothbrushes, they are not a substitute for flossing. When you floss, you eliminate the plaque from the surfaces between the teeth.

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