(217) 546-3333Gaining New Confidence with Cosmetic Dentistry
April 14, 2014
Many people feel self-conscious about their smile. If you have a crooked smile, missing or discolored teeth, you may be trying to find ways to cover up that smile in public. Why shy away from those work functions and social outings? Consider cosmetic dentistry, and be on your way to a whole new you, with a beautiful smile you can’t wait to show off!
There are several types of cosmetic dental procedures that can help give you the smile you have always wanted. Some of the most common are teeth whitening, crowns, dental bonding, and veneers.
If you have stained or discolored teeth, professional teeth whitening systems can be provided to you by your dentist. Whether it is an in-office procedure where you see same-day results, or a take home set custom molded for your mouth, your teeth can become several shades whiter in no time. Unlike the over-the-counter whitening kits, dental offices can use a stronger concentration of the whitening chemical, and they have staff properly trained to apply it. For you, this means faster and safer results.
If you need to fill gaps between your teeth, or want to change the color of your teeth, you may want to consider dental bonding. Dental bonding can also be used to fill cavities in a way that makes the tooth look healthy and natural, without any of those embarrassing metal fillers. Dental bonds use a tooth-colored material and are one of the quickest and easiest methods of tooth restoration in cosmetic dentistry.
However, dental bonds are more susceptible to chipping and staining than some other cosmetic options. If you have a habit of chewing on hard objects, eating or drinking staining foods, you may want to consider veneers or crowns.
Dental Crowns are often used when teeth are cracked, decayed, or damaged. They fit over the existing tooth and work to strengthen your tooth while improving the way it looks. In most cases, crown installation occurs over a few office visits, although new technology is allowing for crowns that can be installed in just one visit.
Your teeth will be reduced to make room for the cap, and a mold will be created of your smile. If you’ll be receiving your crown over the course of two visits, while your mold is sent to a lab for crown fabrication, you will be fitted with a temporary crown. On a subsequent visit, your dentist will cement your crown into place. Crowns can last for many years with proper care.
If you’ll be receiving your crown in one visit, it will be fabricated and placed all in one visit to the office.
Veneers are similar to crowns, but only cover the front area of the tooth. Veneers are created out of porcelain and can be used to fix a variety of cosmetic issues including discolored, crooked, or uneven teeth. Veneers are very resistant to staining, so they are a great long-term option.
To gain back your confidence with a brand new smile, contact Dr. Matt VanderMolen at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield today! (217) 717-4551.
Dental 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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Restorative Dentistry for an Improved Smile
December 9, 2013
Repairing missing, broken, or damaged teeth
Restorative Dentistry, performed by Dr. Matt VanderMolen, focuses on repairing teeth that are missing or have become damaged or broken. The purpose of restorative dentistry is to bring the teeth back to a healthier condition while at the same time, also improving the smile. There are many procedures offered by Advanced Dental Care of Springfield that qualify as restorative dentistry and two of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures include dental implants and dental crowns.
Dental implants are permanent, artificial teeth that are made to look and function exactly like a natural tooth. The implants are anchored directly onto the jawbone to ensure they are sturdy and strong. Dr. VanderMolen will carefully examine the teeth to determine if a patient is a good candidate for dental implants and he will then customize the implants for each individual patient. The end result is ultimately healthier gums, teeth, and a beautiful smile to be proud of.
Dental crowns are used to repair teeth that have been damaged but are not missing. A dental crown is used to replace cracked or damaged teeth and is designed to match the color of the natural tooth. The crown is placed over the tooth with cement to ensure longevity and strength. Dental crowns can be easily placed onto the teeth and will instantly improve their appearance and the strength.
To restore your natural teeth and improve your smile, contact Advanced Dental Care at (217) 546-3333 to discuss the Restorative Dentistry procedures that are right for you. Come see us today and be on the way to the beautiful smile you have been longing for.
Cosmetic Dentistry: Repairing Worn Teeth
November 11, 2013
Restoring Worn Down Teeth
Tooth wear is a very common natural phenomenon that occurs as we age. The constant grinding of teeth against each other due to biting or swallowing is responsible for attrition or the wearing down of teeth. Reduction in the length of the teeth and chipping off from the sides can occur. Due to the loss of tooth structure, the nerve endings may be exposed causing sensitivity. This process can be severe in individuals who have bruxism (involuntary grinding while sleeping). Worn-down teeth create an uneven smile line; cosmetic dentistry can restore the aesthetics of the smile.
To prevent further damage from teeth grinding, nightguards are often recommended. These are fabricated from the impressions of the patient’s teeth. They prevent the tooth-to-tooth contact while sleeping and thereby help in prevention of further wear and tear as well as the jaw pain that can result from grinding and clenching during sleep.
Dental bonding can be a cosmetic treatment option in mild cases of wear of front teeth. Composite resins are used for this technique. These do not have enough strength to withstand heavy loads so they cannot be used for back teeth. Dental bonding can be a cost-effective way to enhance the smile and hide worn areas.
Dental crowns are an extremely durable and highly aesthetic treatment option. These are suitable for both front and back teeth. The most common type is a porcelain crowns that covers the entire tooth. Dental crowns serve as a great solution for teeth that have lost vitality (when attrition reaches the level of pulp which is the innermost part of the tooth).
Dental veneers are thin layers of tooth-colored material that are cemented to the prepared tooth surface. They are commonly made of porcelain for durability and a natural look. An advantage is that only a very small amount of tooth surface needs to be removed to make room for the veneers.
Now, there is no need to get upset about your worn-out teeth. Call (217) 546-3333 for an appointment with Dr. Matt VanderMolen. His team will work to remove the worn-out look and bring a youthful smile to your face!
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Options Available in Cosmetic Dentistry
October 14, 2013
I'm interested in changing the shape of my teeth. What options are available?
If you have crooked teeth or you wish your teeth were more attractive; changing their shape is possible with a number of different cosmetic dentistry treatments. Smile enhancement procedures are common, safe and easy. A change of shape can be achieved by these popular methods:
Crowns
A crown is a dental restoration in which the whole tooth is capped or covered. The crown is fabricated from materials like porcelain. Crowns can cover many problems including cracked or otherwise compromised teeth.
To attach the crown, the tooth has to be prepared. It is trimmed down to create space needed to accommodate the crown. Once preparation is over, impression of the prepared tooth is taken and the cast made out of it is sent to the lab for crown fabrication. Finally, the dentist glues the crown to your prepared tooth.
Veneers
Veneers are thin layers of restorative material that are adhered to the teeth to change their shape or to obscure discoloration. They are a treatment of choice for people with dental problems like mild to moderate fluorosis, small gaps and shape adjustments. Veneers cover only the outer or the facial surface of the teeth. Most commonly, the upper front teeth are veneered as they are the most prominent teeth while smiling.
Some amount of tooth reduction is required but lesser than the extent required for crowns. Once the teeth are trimmed down, the impression is made and the casts are sent to the lab for fabrication. The finished veneer is adhered to the prepared tooth surface.
Bonding
Bonding is one of the simplest and less expensive types of dental restoration which can be used to modify the shape of the teeth. A tooth-colored resin material is used for dental bonding.
The teeth are etched to allow the resin to bond. A coat of resin is applied and cured with curing light. Layer by layer application is performed meticulously by the dentist to give the teeth the desired shape. Finally, finishing and polishing is done for a smooth glossy surface.
You can trust Dr. VanderMolen to help you get the perfect smile you are looking for. For more information and to schedule an appointment, contact us now at (217) 546-3333. We can help you smile confidently in no time.