It is safe, quick, and inexpensive. At any appointment, just let us know if you would like to begin the bleaching process. You can lighten only your upper teeth or both the upper and lower depending on how much you show when you talk and smile.
Bonding is an amazing procedure used to conservatively alter the shape of teeth. We commonly use bonding to close gaps, spaces between teeth, and even black triangles at the gum line. Because bonding depends on the addition of material to under contoured or deficient surface areas of teeth, it is best suited to teeth that are not discolored or badly broken down by decay. Bonding does not cover the entire surface of the tooth. Bonding is most appropriate for teeth that are an appropriate color or can be bleached (whitened) to an appropriate color.
We are a mercury-free practice. However, many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, silver/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Porcelain inlays and Tooth Colored Restorations (onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth.
Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, which is similar to a dental filling is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.
Crowns are extremely durable and can be used in most situations. Crowns can be made of a variety of materials from gold alloy to ceramic or porcelain. The choice of materials depends on the specific demands being addressed. Crowns are typically fabricated by a dental lab and require a second visit for final cementation.
The use of all ceramic or porcelain fused to ceramic allows us to make crowns that are virtually undetectable. Crowns are most appropriate for teeth that have been weakened by decay, suffer from very heavy function, or when very significant changes in form are required to achieve the desired cosmetic goal.
Bridges are used to replace missing teeth. When there is a tooth or teeth missing between other teeth a bridge may be an appropriate way to address the problem. A bridge is possible when the tooth or teeth being replaced are attached to a crown on each end. The restoration is cemented in place and is not removable. Like crowns, bridges are fabricated by a lab to match your specific tooth color and shape and can be very esthetic. The entire process can be completed in just a couple of weeks.
Veneers are the procedure of choice when we want to significantly alter the shape and color of teeth. Veneers cover the entire face of the tooth and can be made of porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin. Porcelain and ceramic are a more durable choice, and they are typically more esthetic. Since a veneer is applied to the surface of the tooth it is common to mildly prepare or reduce the surface so that the final form of the veneered tooth is not over contoured or bulky. Veneers may not be appropriate if the teeth have a history of large fillings or if the teeth are heavily worn due to a history of heavy grinding. Unlike bonding, veneers are fabricated by a dental laboratory and require a second visit to cement the final restoration.
Dentures are a common method used to replace teeth. Dentures are typically removable and can replace some missing teeth or an entire arch of missing teeth. Denture fabrication is extremely technique sensitive. Today we can offer to use implants to stabilize and retain dentures. With implants we can even make dentures that are not removable.
This is a process of restoring every tooth in a patient's mouth. This is usually required only when the teeth are so worn and broken-down that it is not wise or practical to do a little at a time and try to repair teeth in unhealthy surroundings. A full mouth reconstruction often will employ several of the various tooth restorative techniques and might include crowns, bridges, implants, and even orthodontics.
The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.
Cleft lip and cleft palate are the most common birth defects in the United States. It is estimated that one of every 600 newborns is affected by cleft lip and/or cleft palate.
Bruxism is also known as grinding or clenching. This often happens during the day and at night. Stress is believed to make this worse. Habit awareness can often reduce daytime habits. Chronic bruxism can lead to muscle spasm and pain, tooth wear and even tooth fracture. Bite guards help to
manage habits as well as reduce pain and damage. Over the counter guards can help but a custom os made guard is often the best option.
Implants are used to replace missing teeth. An implant is a titanium fixture that is anchored into the jawbone. A crown is attached to the implant. Implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. The implant restorations are designed to last a lifetime. A careful evaluation will help you decide if an implant restoration is right for you. 3D x-rays are used to plan for the implant procedure. The typical implant restoration does not receive the crown immediately. It usually takes three months prior to placement of the crown or bridge but there are situations when the implant does receive an immediate restoration.
Orthodontic tooth movement can be accomplished with conventional braces or clear aligner therapy. Orthodontics can be done to address esthetic issues or to move teeth into more ideal positions to aid restoration with veneers, crowns, bridges or implants. Orthodontic tooth movement can be accomplished in children as well as adults of nearly any age.
Sleep Apnea is an underdiagnosed medical condition that occurs when the airway is restricted to a point that so little air flows into the lungs that the blood is inadequately oxygenated. Screening for sleep apnea is part of routine dental care. Patients found to be at risk are advised to see their medical provider for testing and diagnosis. Many treatment options are available through medical or dental providers. Medical providers typically prescribe CPAP machines as the first line therapy. Dentists can make oral appliances to manage sleep apnea.
Bay area, your new dentist is here to answer any of your questions!