Cosmetic Dentistry Directory Blog

If you are missing teeth, it is more than just your smile that is suffering. Your bite, your speech, and other functions may all be affected by your missing teeth. Some dentists may suggest a dental bridge, which is fine for aesthetics and if you are missing several teeth in a row. However, if you are missing several that are not consecutive, the best solution may be dental implants.

Dental implants are literally implanted into your jawbone. This is because when you lose a tooth, you lose the root. The rest of your teeth move toward the gap and throw everything out of alignment. This can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder, causing a lifetime of pain throughout your head, face, and even core. The implant is made of titanium and is very durable. After the several months it takes for the jawbone to grow around the implant, a porcelain dental crown will replace the temporary one you have been wearing.

But are You a Candidate?

Candidates for dental implants include almost everyone. Nearly everyone who is missing a tooth can have their jaw function improved through dental implants. However, dental implants are for those who have adequate jawbone density so the screw can be anchored in the jawline. For patients with narrow jawlines, a flat plate form screw can be inserted. A subperiosteal screw is implanted in patients with short jawlines. No matter what your jaw is like, if you are missing teeth, speak to a cosmetic dentist about dental implants.

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants, please contact us at the Cosmetic Dentistry Directory to find an experienced cosmetic dentist in your area.

Say you have teeth that could use some improvement, but you aren't sure what to do. Say you have some chips or stains, but your teeth are fine other than that. If this is the case, you may want to talk to an experienced cosmetic dentist about the possibility of porcelain veneers.

Veneers are bonded to the front of your teeth, especially those most visible when you speak or smile. They are able to correct fairly minor problems with your teeth in a way that looks natural to you and those around you. Some of the problems porcelain veneers can correct include:

• Chips
  
• Stains or discolorations
  
• Small gaps or diastemas
  
• Slightly crooked teeth
  

Porcelain veneers are sometimes used on people who would rather not have to deal with teeth whitening products because that can sometimes make teeth look fake. Porcelain is used because it absorbs and reflects light much like your natural tooth enamel does. Very often, porcelain veneers will be very hard to distinguish from your natural teeth by those around you.

Porcelain veneers are a simple way to correct minor defects in your teeth that may be bothering you, but don't require something as dramatic as a new crown or bonding.

If you are interested in learning more about porcelain veneers, please contact the Cosmetic Dentistry Directory to find an experienced cosmetic dentist in your area.

The popularity of network and cable television programs that chronicle different types of makeovers provide the evidence. Whether it's the redesign and rebuilding of a home, improving someone's appearance through surgery or getting a smile makeover, people are attracted to the redemptive process of a makeover.

Being able to show off a bright, white smile gives many people a new level of self-confidence. And cosmetic dentists are experienced at providing smile makeovers to improve the overall appearance of your teeth and smile. Smile makeovers combine one or more cosmetic dental procedures to cover problems such as stained teeth, chipped or broken teeth, even missing teeth. Procedures or treatments that are typically used in a smile makeover include:

• Dental bonding
  
• Porcelain veneers
  
• Teeth whitening
  
• Inlays and overlays
  
• Dental crowns and bridges
  

Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you. When creating a good first impression is something that's important to you, the appearance of your teeth and smile are essential. As with all types of makeovers, some procedures are relatively minor while others require more time. Whether your smile needs a "tune up" or a complete overhaul, investing in yourself can go a long way toward improving self image and presentation to others.

If you are interested in learning more about smile makeovers, please contact the Cosmetic Dentistry Directory to find an experienced cosmetic dentist in your area today.

Halitosis is the clinical name for a condition that affects many people. More commonly referred to as bad breath, the unpleasant odor can be a periodic condition or one that is persistent depending on the cause. For many people, the bacteria that live in the mouth are the primary cause of halitosis. For others, there can be more serious causes.

Causes of bad breath include:

• Poor dental hygiene – improper or infrequent brushing and flossing can leave food particles to decay inside the mouth
  
• Infections – Periodontal or gum disease
  
• Respiratory tract infections – Infections of the throat, sinus or lungs
  
• Dry mouth – Salivary gland problems, medications or breathing through the mouth
  
• Systemic Illness – Diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, reflux disease and others
  

Some cases of bad breath such as "morning breath" are considered normal and are not typically a health concern. Others can be serious health conditions and the resulting bad breath may be an indication that helps identify a need for further medical evaluation.

Halitosis is a condition that can normally be treated by your cosmetic dentist. If your dentist determines that your bad breath is caused by another medical condition, they can refer you to a physician to evaluate and address those conditions.

If you are concerned about your bad breath, please contact the Cosmetic Dentistry Directory to find an experienced cosmetic dentist in your area.