(217) 546-3333Dental Implants: A Natural Alternative to Dentures
February 17, 2014
Are you one of the thousands of people wearing dentures which do not fit correctly? Dentures which have not been fit properly can cause discomfort. While many are happy with the look and feel of their dentures, there is a long-lasting, more natural looking alternative. If you are wearing dentures at the moment and would like a change, dental implants may be right for you.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a replacement tooth root that is fixed into the jaw bone and acts as a foundation to support dental prosthetics. When implants are installed, your dentist will drill small holes into the jawbone, and position small, threaded rods made from titanium. When the process has been completed, the dental implants will be tightened and fixed into place so that they will not move. Dental implants are positioned where teeth are missing so that they can act as a foundation for a dental crown or bridge which can be attached to the threaded rod.
There are many benefits of using dental implants. Most importantly, they form a firm foundation for affixing permanent replacement teeth. Because the teeth are permanent, eating and speaking become easier. Dental implants firmly rooted in the jaw, look, and act just as your natural teeth. Titanium rods do not cause allergic reactions and are therefore a great option to those who have sensitivity to those materials. While implants can cost more then dentures, the long-lasting, durable and natural look of them makes them worth the investment. You will smile, eat, and speak as naturally just as if you had all of your original teeth.
If you have poorly fitted dentures, lost or damaged teeth and would like to know more about how dental implants can benefit you, make an appointment by calling Dr. Matt VanderMolen at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield today at 217-717-4551.
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5 Things You Should Know About Restorative Dentistry
January 13, 2014
5 Things You Should Know About Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry works to address dental problems associated with diseases and structures of the teeth. Many patients seek restorative or cosmetic dentistry when they are missing a tooth. From filling cavities to dental implants, here are a few things you should know about dental implants and restorative dentistry.
There are many types of restorative dentistry. While simple fillings are a well-known restorative procedure, there are numerous other types of restorations available which can replace or repair a broken tooth. Crowns, bridges, implants and dentures are just a few of the common solutions available.
Restorative dentistry can improve your overall health. If you have missing or misshapen teeth, there are gaps and irregular spaces for bacteria and food to collect. This can deteriorate the health of the mouth by encouraging tooth decay and gum disease. Missing teeth can cause strain on existing teeth and allow them to fall out of alignment.
Dental implants are a very effective way to replace teeth. Dental implants are nowadays, a common procedure where a metal post is attached to the jaw bone and a natural looking crown is then attached to this post. Implants have little to no physical complications and if taken care of properly, can last a lifetime.
Dental implants may be more costly than other replacement options, but last longer. It’s true what they say, you get what you pay for. While dental implants are a substantially higher investment then dentures or other replacement options, they offer durable and long lasting results. The cost of implants will vary greatly depending on numerous factors. Talk with your dentist today to find out more about the exact costs and payment options.
Restorative dentists are not all the same. It is important that you choose a dentist qualified and experienced in restorations and implants if you want to maintain a natural looking smile. Not all products and procedures are treated the same. Ask your doctor which oral restorative methods and products they use, ask for before and after photographs, and what type of experience they have in the procedures they are recommending for you.
If you are looking for a dentist with experience in restorative dentistry and dental implants, call Dr. Matt VanderMolen at 217-717-4551. The friendly staff at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield will be happy to answer all of your questions and help schedule a consultation today.
Repairing a Chipped Tooth with Dental Bonding
January 6, 2014
If you have chipped or cracked teeth, you will be happy to know there is a safe and easy solution. You no longer have to live with unsightly, damaged teeth. Dr. Matt VanderMolen provides dental bonding and other cosmetic dentistry services at Advanced Dental Care in Springfield IL to help make your smile something you can’t wait to share.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding involves the placement of a plastic-based adhesive which cosmetically fixes flaws in the teeth. The adhesive is colored, shaped, and polished to match the contour of your natural teeth. The entire procedure is quick, easy, and painless. Anesthetics are rarely needed for dental bonding procedures. If you have several teeth that require dental bonding it may be necessary to schedule multiple visits to the dentist; the process requires approximately 30 minutes per tooth.
The Dental Bonding Process
Dr. VanderMolen will perform a general cleaning of your teeth and gums before proceeding with the dental bonding process. A special tool is used to roughen the outer surface of any teeth requiring bonding. A conditioning solution will then be spread to help the bonding material adhere to the tooth. The bonding material, which has been shaped prior to the procedure, is applied on top of the conditioning solution. For long-lasting effects, the bond is then hardened with an ultraviolet light or laser.
Precautions
If you practice good oral hygiene techniques, such as brushing and flossing twice a day and regularly visiting your dentist for check-ups, your dental bond will remain in good condition for many years. However, there are a couple of precautions to take after the procedure.
The material used for dental bonding is not quite as strong as tooth enamel; you should try to avoid biting on hard objects such as the tops of pens, ice cubes or your own fingernails as this can result in a chipped or lost dental bond. For the first 48 hours following the procedure, the resin used in the tooth bonding is particularly susceptible to discoloration. In order to prevent staining your new smile, avoid drinking liquids such as wine, coffee, and tea. Smoking can also discolor dental bonds and should be avoided.
If you have a chipped or cracked tooth and are interested in learning more about how dental bonding can give you back your natural smile, call Dr. VanderMolen at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield, 217-717-4551 to schedule an appointment today.
5 Important Facts about Cosmetic Fillings
December 2, 2013
No longer do you have to worry about unsightly metal fillings! Cosmetic, tooth-colored fillings are now readily available to keep your smile looking natural thanks to materials that mimic the tooth’s natural color and translucency, making them practically undetectable.
Here are 5 important facts about Cosmetic Fillings that make them a great option for replacing unsightly metal fillings:
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Tooth-Colored Fillings Offer Superior Aesthetic Properties
Tooth colored fillings are composed of a composite resin which can easily be matched to your natural tooth color and as a result the filling is almost seamless, making it virtually undetectable on all teeth. Thanks to the fact that most people won’t be able to tell you have cosmetic fillings; these fillings are often preferred over the traditional, unsightly, metal fillings.
- Cosmetic Fillings Chemically Bond To The Tooth
For silver amalgam fillings, the tooth has to be cut and shaped to ensure the filling remains intact within the cavity. Improper tooth preparation can lead to the filling being dislodged. In comparison, with cosmetic fillings little tooth preparation is required because it bonds to the tooth chemically. This means the natural tooth structure is preserved, resulting in a stronger, healthier tooth.
- The Physical Properties Of The Resin Are Close To Those Of Natural Teeth
One of the problems with metal fillings is that it is rigid and not very pliable. This can cause problems such as breakage of the tooth or filling itself. The composite resin used in cosmetic fillings on the other hand, flexes like a natural tooth does. As a result, there are fewer chances for the disintegration or breaking of the filling. Overall, when the physical properties of the filling match those of the tooth, the expected longevity, and durability of the filling increases.
- Cosmetic Fillings Are Versatile In Utility
As with traditional metal fillings, cosmetic fillings are used to fill cavities in both front and back teeth. However, because of their natural, tooth colored appearance, they can also be used to treat chipped teeth or correct gaps in teeth. They can also be used to conceal pits or discolorations on the teeth.
- No Negative Effects On The Body
Today’s composite resins used in cosmetic fillings are completely safe and produce no harmful effects on the surrounding tissues. While there is considerable debate as to the safety of traditional amalgam, metal fillings, most cosmetic fillings are biocompatible and as a result, there is no fear of toxicity.
Are you looking to replace unsightly metal fillings with natural-looking cosmetic fillings? Call Dr. VanderMolen and Advanced Dental Care at (217) 546-3333 for an appointment today! Click here for more information on all the services available at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield.
Cosmetic Dentistry for Seniors
November 18, 2013
Cosmetic Dentistry Benefits All Age Groups
Cosmetic dentistry is most commonly performed on those in their 20s-50s, but this age range is not indicative of who can have this type of dental work done. Most cosmetic dental procedures are within your reach, if you are a healthy senior.
As a senior, your smile mean so much to your self-confidence, so why not keep your teeth looking fresh and pearly with cosmetic dentistry. It's no secret, that a glowing smile at any age is universally pleasing. But, there are many more options out there for seniors to maintain and even improve their smile to a youthful radiance.
Common cosmetic dentistry procedures available to seniors include crowns, porcelain dental veneers, and teeth whitening. Dental implants and crowns provide more of a functional update, while also improving the aesthetics.
Visit Advanced Dental Care to discover what cosmetic dental procedure is right for you. Dr. VanderMolen will check your overall oral health and discuss which options would suit you best.
If you live in the Springfield area, Advanced Dental Care is the cosmetic dentistry office of choice. Dr. VanderMolen works with patients of all ages and is in-tune with the specific cosmetic and general dental needs of seniors. Call (217) 546-3333 today to make your impression on the world a youthful one. Click here for more information on all the services available at Advanced Dental Care.
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