My Dentist @ Boundary Park in Surrey, BC offers cosmetic and family dentistry that puts your smile on your face. Our Surrey Dentists offer quality dental care for patients of all ages at a reasonable price.
What are the advantages of composite fillings?
Most patients who choose composite fillings do so because of the cosmetic benefits. Your dentist can create a filling that is personalized to the shade of your teeth, so your fillings will blend seamlessly into your smile. Like all fillings, composites protect your teeth after decay is removed to prevent breakage of the remaining tooth structure. These fillings also help to prevent sensitivity that can occur after the decayed portion of the tooth is removed.
What are the disadvantages?
After receiving a composite, a patient may experience post-operative sensitivity. Also, the shade of the composite can change slightly if you drink tea, coffee or other staining foods. Dentist can put a clear plastic coating over the composite to prevent the color from changing if you are particularly concerned about tooth color.
Why should we choose composite fillings over metal fillings?
The most obvious answer is appearance. All-white fillings will not compromise your gorgeous smile. Another benefit of composite fillings is that they require less removal of healthy, tooth structure, allowing for more conservative restorations.
How can I know if composite fillings are for me?
There are various factors to consider when choosing a material for your fillings. Patients with composites may also be more prone to post-treatment sensitivity. Composite fillings can be stained by coffee, tea, red wine, and other staining foods, and the fillings will not respond to teeth whitening treatments. However, your dentist can put a protective coating on your fillings to reduce staining if this is a concern.
What is the cost of composite fillings?
Prices vary, but composite fillings average about one-and-a-half to two times the price of a silver filling. Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of the composite up to the price of a silver filling, with the patient paying the difference.
What is the process of composite fillings?
Following preparation, the composite is placed in layers, using a light specialized to harden each layer. When the process is finished, the composite is shaped to fit the tooth. It is then polished to prevent staining and early wear.
How long does it take to get a composite filling?
There are many factors that can determine just how long it will take to get a composite filling, including the size of a cavity or fracture, it’s location, and how many fillings you need. Patients should be prepared to sit in the dentist’s chair for up to one hour or more for a filling.
Can my old fillings be replaced by composite fillings?
Many people opt to remove metal fillings and replace them with composites for purely aesthetic reasons. If your old filling starts to crack or leak, you should definitely have it replaced.
Can you eat after a composite filling?
Unlike amalgam fillings, composite fillings allow patients to eat right after getting the procedure. However, dentists do recommend that patients only resume eating after the local anesthetic wears off. It can be quite difficult to eat when your lips and mouth are numb! Plus, you do not want to run the risk of accidentally biting your lip, cheek, or tongue. While composite fillings are very strong, you should probably opt out of chewing anything too crunchy, hard, or sticky right after getting the procedure.
How to make your composite fillings last longer?
Many patients see their composite fillings lasting for about ten years. But if you take really great care of your fillings, they may be able to last you longer than that — and even a lifetime! In order to help your composite fillings last longer, you should always see your dentist twice a year for regular dental cleanings and exams, brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, and eat a variety of healthy food to boost your oral health.
Will people be able to tell if I have a dental crown or bridge?
Today’s crowns and bridges are made of natural-looking composite materials that make them virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
How Long Will They Last?
Both dental crowns and bridges will last a good long while, though how long depends on a few factors.
Good oral health requires you to brush and floss on a regular basis because oral hygiene should be your number one priority if you want the procedures to last and be effective in the long run.
You also need to avoid eating unhealthy foods that have a hard surface because it might damage the crown or bridge. Avoid sticky foods to prevent decay and your crown or bridge should last from five to fifteen years.
How are crowns placed on teeth?
Crown placement is typically completed in two visits. First, we will remove a thin layer of enamel coating and shape the tooth to provide room for the crown. This process allows the crown to be placed without crowding neighbouring teeth or creating an uneven bite. Then we make an impression of the teeth, which is sent to an on-site lab where the crowns will be made from the most advanced materials for long-lasting durability.
The dentist will fit a temporary crown, which is crafted from resin, to protect your tooth while the permanent crown is being made. At the second visit, the temporary crown will be removed and the tooth will be carefully cleaned before the permanent crown is applied using a strong adhesive.
Some people having Crowns with black, darkened lines in between their gums and teeth. Are they cause by Crown or Bridges?
The newer all porcelain crowns are an esthetic improvement over older, porcelain fused to metal crowns as if the gumline would recede, the older crowns often showed a metal edge to the crown that originally was hidden from view. Since all porcelain crowns have no metal, no markings are evident if the gum line recedes.
If having a root canal and it is quite discoloured, can Porcelain Crown be the best approach?
If a tooth that requires root canal therapy discolours, it is an indication that the nerve inside the tooth had died and blood pigments have broken down and been absorbed into the calcified tooth structure. By placing an all ceramic porcelain crown on the tooth, it can restore the tooth to match its neighbours.
Should I replace my old crowns?
If your crowns are worn down or damaged, give us a call so that we can plan replacements. We may need to remove the crown and provide you with a new temporary crown until your new permanent crowns are complete.
If you’ve had your crowns for several years, you may be troubled by their aesthetics. Older materials used to create crowns were not as natural-looking and lifelike as today’s modern crowns. Metal crowns and porcelain-fused-to-metal may be a giveaway that you’ve had dental work done, and we completely understand that you want your smile to look its best.
We are happy to examine your teeth and provide a recommendation as to whether your crowns should be replaced. Give our My Dentist @ Boundary Park in Surrey, BC a call to schedule your evaluation.
Which foods should avoid for not damaging your Bridges?
Patients fitted with dental bridges are advised by dentists to avoid chewing extensively on foods such as raw vegetables, hard candies, and ice. These foods can cause damage to the bridge, which may require replacement if it cannot be repaired.
How many types of Dental Bridges?
There are three types of dental bridges:
Traditional Fixed Bridge: A dental bridge is a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is fused between two porcelain crowns to fill in the area left by a missing tooth. This is known as a fixed bridge. This procedure is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Fixed bridges cannot be taken out of your mouth as you might do with removable partial dentures.
Resin Bonded Bridges: The resin bonded bridge is primarily used for your front teeth. Less expensive, this bridge is best used when the abutment teeth are healthy and don’t have large fillings. The false tooth is fused to bands that are bonded to the abutment teeth with a resin which is hidden from view. This type of bridge reduces the amount of preparation on the adjacent teeth.
Cantilever Bridges: In areas of your mouth that are under less stress, such as your front teeth, a cantilever bridge may be used. Cantilever bridges are used when there are teeth on only one side of the open space. This procedure involves anchoring the false tooth to one side over one or more natural and adjacent teeth.
Which foods should avoid with a temporary dental crown?
Because temporary crowns are made from acrylic, which is less strong than the metal, ceramic or porcelain material of a permanent crown, you must take extra precautions. Limit the amount of chewing you do on the side of your mouth where your temporary crown is located. Avoid chewing on hard candies, nuts and very crunchy fresh vegetables such as carrots on the same side of the mouth as your temporary crown. Until your permanent crown is in place, don’t eat sticky desserts or candy, including caramels, licorice, jelly beans, taffy, toffee and gummy bears, as they could pull the temporary crown off your tooth. Avoid chewing gum for the same reason.
Which foods should avoid for permanent dental crowns?
Hot foods: Some individuals experience a mild-to-severe sensitivity in and around a crowned tooth when eating hot foods, particularly if they are affected by gum recession. If the problem persists, consult your dentist as the crown’s fit may require adjustment.
Cold foods: Although they do not harm your crown, such foods can trigger sensitivity similar to that caused by hot foods if any part of your gum recedes enough to expose the root above a crowned tooth. Your dentist may suggest that you use a toothpaste made especially for sensitive teeth; such toothpaste work by blocking the sensation traveling from the tooth to the nerves.
Sugary foods: Avoid constant exposure to sugary drinks, candy or gum, keep snacking to a minimum, and brush or rinse your teeth after eating chewy or sticky foods such as dried fruit.
How do I care for my crowns and bridges?
It is important to maintain excellent oral hygiene, making sure to brush and floss twice a day. Avoid biting on hard foods like nuts and candy that can potentially fracture the restoration.
What should I expect on my first visit?
Our Dentist’s goal during the first visit is to assess your condition to see if you’re a good candidate for dentures and give you a reasonable expectation of the function, appearance, and cost of those dentures. Our Dentist will perform an examination of your mouth as well as a general health assessment. They will ask if you’re under a Physician’s care or if you have any health conditions or allergies that may affect the denture process. Your information will not be shared with anyone and is taken in the strictest confidence. After the examination, our Dentist will give you a detailed overview of the results you can expect from new dentures, including an approximate cost.
What is the average cost of dentures?
Denture fees vary widely based on many factors including the complexity of your particular treatment and the time required to accomplish the treatment. The best way to determine the fees is to contact our My Dentist @ Boundary Park in Surrey so we can discuss the payment and care you may need.
What are different types of dentures available?
There are four main types of dentures to consider.
Complete Dentures: When most people think of dentures, they tend to picture complete dentures, which are full replacements for all of your teeth. This can be a full set of either upper or lower teeth or a combined set for your entire mouth.
Complete dentures have to be properly fitted for optimum comfort and can last 5 to 10 years given proper care. These can typically be made six months after tooth extraction, once your gums have had time to heal.
Immediate Dentures: Immediate dentures are put into place immediately after tooth extraction and are used as a temporary set while your bone and tissue stabilize following tooth extraction. There are a number of benefits to immediate dentures, although they may require frequent adjustments while your jaw heals into place.
Overdentures: Overdentures are similar to complete dentures. The difference is that not all teeth are extracted and one or more natural teeth are used for support. This type of denture provides greater stabilization during chewing. Overdentures can be more costly than complete dentures and usually require more appointments to get them properly fitted in place.
Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are designed to correct the gaps in your smile when only some of your teeth are missing. Metal attachments anchor the dentures to your natural teeth. Partial dentures maintain tooth alignment by preventing your remaining teeth from shifting. Partial dentures can also help you prevent further tooth loss due to decay or gum disease.
When will I receive my dentures?
The length of time it takes to receive a completed set of dentures depends on your individual condition. Our Dentist will give you an estimate based on your individual situation. Our Dentist needs time to ensure the new set is properly crafted and fitted, but they also understand your desire to have them fast, and they will do their best to balance these two factors.
Do I have to wear denture adhesives?
Dentures are custom-designed for a comfortable and good fit for you. As a result, they often don’t require the regular use of an adhesive. Poor-fitting dentures must be checked by your dentist as soon as possible to eliminate discomfort and the potential for irritation.
Will the dentures fit properly?
Our Dentist will skillfully assess your personal physical characteristics to create a pair of customized dentures that will support and protect your delicate gums; allow you to speak, chew and use your mouth naturally; blend in with existing teeth; and compliment your natural facial structure and characteristics. The base materials, tooth materials, and colors of teeth are all chosen based on the shape of your face, your natural complexion, and the presence of existing teeth, and are completely unique to you.Our Dentist is a highly skilled craftsman, and you can be sure your new dentures not only fit well, but look natural, complimenting your existing facial features.
Well crafted dentures are designed to feel as natural as possible in your mouth, however, there may be a brief adjustment period. Most patients find that after a week of continuous wear, the oral cavity has adjusted to the new teeth perfectly, although it can take a bit longer for others. Be patient and continue to wear your dentures. They will feel as if you’ve been wearing them forever in no time.
When can I wear my dentures?
This is personal preference, however, we recommend that you wear your dentures as much as possible. It is widely agreed upon that you should sleep without your dentures, however, if you choose to sleep with them it is important to keep your denture extremely clean. Remove them at least once a day and brush the tissues underlying the dentures with a soft toothbrush. This removes any plaque build up along with any food debris; it also stimulates the blood vessels which is an essential part of healthy tissue.
Will dentures affect the way I eat?
Like anything new, you need time to adapt to your new denture. Chewing is one of the skills that need to be adapted when you receive either replacement dentures or you are first dentures. You can help yourself accommodate by taking smaller portions and chewing slowly and avoiding sticky or tough foods for a little while. You should soon see an improvement due to the new dentures being more efficient as the chewing surfaces have less wear.
How do I care for my dentures?
Whitening: It is not possible to whiten dentures like natural teeth because dentures are made of plastic. To minimize staining, properly clean your dentures daily to remove food and plaque bacteria. Brushing with a denture brush or soft toothbrush will prevent dentures from becoming permanently stained and keep your mouth healthy. Moisten the brush and apply a non-abrasive soap or denture paste (regular toothpaste is too abrasive). Brush every surface, inside and out, scrubbing gently. A variety of over-the-counter denture cleanser products may be safely used (by following the manufacturer’s instructions) to remove most stains. Do not use bleach on your dentures unless your dentist or prosthodontist gives you special instructions on using bleach. Dilute household bleach can be used to clean and disinfect your dentures, but don’t use bleach until you see your prosthodontist for instructions. More stubborn stains may require removal by your prosthodontist.
Brushing: Do not brush your dentures with normal toothpaste. Toothpaste are designed to be used on teeth, and they often contain materials and chemicals that help whiten and strengthen teeth but may harm dentures, which are made of a very durable plastic. Even though the plastic is strong, it is not as strong as the enamel of teeth and may be scratched by using toothpaste to clean your dentures. You should use a dishwashing liquid and a special denture brush to clean your dentures by hand every day. After rinsing them thoroughly, soak your dentures in water-based cleaning solution overnight.
Moreover, it is advisable to rinse your dentures and your mouth after every meal however at least once a day the dentures should be brushed to remove any plaque accumulation and food debris, and then use a denture soak. It is also advisable to brush your gums to remove any debris including any residual dental adhesive.
Repairing broken dentures: The best solution is to return to the prosthodontist who made your dentures and have the cracked denture repaired professionally. It may seem easy to fix, but it is important that the repair is done correctly to prevent problems with chewing and to avoid any sore spots. The prosthodontist also needs to check the denture and adjust it after it is repaired. The denture may be too old and may no longer fit closely to your gums, and you may need a new denture.
What kind of denture cleaner should I use?
There are many brands of denture cleaners on the market and what brand to use is usually down to personal preference. However, it should be noted that household bleach and everyday toothpaste can harm the denture. If you notice a lot a tartar or plaque buildup you may also use white vinegar to soak your dentures and then brush off any residual build up. Remember that you can have your denture professionally cleaned by a Dentist in a matter of minutes.
How often should I visit my Denturist after getting my dentures?
You should have a check-up with your Dentist once a year for optimal performance of your dentures. During this annual visit, you Dentist can spot any issues or abnormalities that need to be taken care of, and they can recommend you to a specialist should you require further medical attention.
What is a Root Infection and How Do I Know If I Have One?
When the bottom section (below the gum) of a tooth develops a cavity, either through decay or a fracture, this gap quickly fills up with nasty bacteria. This is very bad for the health of teeth and gums and puts a great strain on surrounding tissues. If left untreated, it can cause tooth loss, bone degeneration, and gum disease.
The symptoms of a root infection can sometimes be very easy to spot and a little trickier at other times. In fact, you really do not want the symptoms to be too obvious because if they are, you likely have an abscess. This is a very painful condition and it only occurs if a dental problem has been allowed to deteriorate.
In some cases, root infections may present mild pain, but to make sure that they are spotted early, keep up with regular dentist appointments. That way, a root canal can be scheduled before any irreversible damage is done to the pulp inside the affected tooth. This will give you a very high chance of being able to keep it. On the other hand, if the infection has been allowed to fester for too long, the tooth may need to be extracted.
Is it expensive?
Saving your tooth through endodontic treatment is less expensive and less invasive than an extraction and replacement with a bridge or implant. The cost will depend on your dental insurance coverage. Our staff will help with getting your insurance information and let you know the cost of your root canal.
How long does the repaired tooth last?
Potentially, the repaired tooth lasts a lifetime! If the patient has a good oral care routine and visits the dentist twice a year for cleanings and exams, the restored tooth should have a long life.
What is a root canal procedure?
During root canal treatment, the tooth pulp and tooth roots are cleaned to remove microbes that cause infection, and a filling material is placed in the roots.
The procedure is performed when the tooth pulp has become infected (a condition is known as pulpitis) or when the infection has spread to the roots or jawbone.
Microbes and infected tissue are removed from the pulp and roots using special needles and chemical rinsing substances. After the tooth has been disinfected, a filling material is placed in the root canal.
What problems and pain can occur due to the root canal procedure?
Root canal treatment usually requires multiple relatively long visits (30-90 minutes per visit). The mouth has to be kept open during the treatment, and as a result, jaw joints and the muscles that keep the mouth open often get tired.
Local anesthesia used in dental procedures is effective in preventing root canal pain during the treatment. It may not work properly in rare cases, such as when the infection has spread widely and caused changes in the acidity of the surrounding tissue.
Sometimes, teeth become discolored and turn dark or grey following a root canal treatment. This discoloration is caused by bleeding inside the tooth or by the filling material used in the procedure. Discolored teeth can be whitened.
What can I do if root canal therapy doesn’t work?
At times, a root canal won’t be able to save your tooth. One of the best alternatives to root canal therapy is a tooth extraction. If your dentist recommends this dental procedure, you will also need a tooth implant or dental bridge in order to restore full functionality of your mouth and smile.
Should I be worried about X-rays?
No. While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontic treatment, we use an advanced non-film computerized system called digital radiography that produces radiation levels up to 90 percent lower than those of already low dose conventional dental x-ray machinery.
Is there any other method to reduce my anxiety besides local anesthesia?
We are very sensitive to the fact that, no matter how well-informed you are about the procedure, you may still experience anxiety. Protecting your oral health is our top priority, and we don’t want you to forgo treatment because you’re fearful about the procedure. In that case we offer sedation options that will calm you so that you can get the treatment you need.
How will I feel after a root canal?
Your tooth may feel a little sensitive after the procedure, but you’ll finally be out of pain! If you’re experiencing soreness or sensitivity, you can take over-the-counter medications.
Will the tooth need any special care or additional treatment?
After your root canal procedure, you should be careful not to bite or chew on the treated tooth until it has recovered. We encourage all patients to practice good daily oral care that includes flossing and brushing.
Who should get dental implants?
Dental implants are not for everyone, but certain conditions and circumstances may make dental implants the better option:
How expensive are dental implants?
Dental implants require a significant investment but hold up over time to make the process worth the price. Surgical fees often cost $2,000–5,000 for a single tooth, on top of the price of required materials the procedure. However, ignoring the need for an implant costs much more over time. A missing tooth or prolonged use of dentures leads to bone and gum decay, while also exposing more surface area of the surrounding teeth to continuous wear and tear. Eventually, issues such as nerve exposure and bone loss cause increased discomfort for the patient. The corrective procedures done at this point are exponentially more painful and expensive for a patient. Dental implants prevent bone loss and allow patients to live a much more comfortable life.
Why do people choose dental implants instead of other options for missing teeth?
Dental implants are the most natural-looking and natural-feeling replacement for missing teeth. Unlike many other tooth replacement options, dental implants do not slip or click when talking, laughing or eating, making for greater confidence in social situations. Dental implants are also considered a healthy option because they help to maintain the jawbone, keeping the facial structure intact.
How long will dental implants last?
Dental implants last upwards of forty years if taken care of properly. They often last a lifetime for patients that regularly brush, floss, and follow the dental recommendations made at their check-ups. While a dentist cannot guarantee the long-term success of a dental implant, the dentist can provide guidelines and suggestions to better care for your teeth. These suggestions are based on proper hygiene procedures, your own genetic history (including diseases that run in your family), and your nutritional habits. Following the recommendations put in place by your dentist ensures the implant has the best chance to last the rest of your lifetime.
What Are Common Side Effects and Complications? What are the disadvantages of dental implants?
Dental implants are one of the most successful procedures in dentistry, with an average success rate of 95%. Dental implant failure occurs most frequently in heavy smokers, as the toxins and nicotine inhibit the body’s healing process. In fact, the success rate for smokers drops dramatically, to 50-70%.
Like any minor oral surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, inflammation, and pain, but your dentist will discuss how these can be managed for your specific situation. If there is no available bone to place the implant, then bone and gum grafting procedures may be required, which can increase the cost of your treatment. However, the upfront investment can pay off in the long term.
Does the body ever reject an implant?
Very rarely does a person’s body reject a dental implant. The jawbone readily accepts the implant, and the few rejections that do occur are caused by rare allergies to the titanium alloy that makes up the implant. Another reason for implant failure comes from the patient’s care after surgery. Without great oral hygiene, regular teeth fail and eventually fall out. A dental implant is no different. Taking care of your teeth, even the implants, prevents gum decay and structural failure in the long run.
What is the process for getting a dental implant?
Your dentist, who should be a credentialed dental implant expert, will place the implant into the jawbone. As you heal, your implant will fuse with your natural jawbone. Once the implant bonds with the jawbone, a small connector is placed on top of the dental implant to connect the implant to the replacement tooth or teeth.
What’s the Recovery Time for Dental Implants?
The procedure happens in several steps: first implant placement and then the placement of the crowns. While the implants need anywhere from six to 16 weeks to secure in the mouth, there should be little to no downtime. You may feel mild soreness or swelling for the first few days, but these can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications and shouldn’t affect your daily routine. Your dentist may also suggest a soft or liquid diet for a few days to a few weeks. Once the implants have healed, the crowns will be placed.
Does the surgery require time off?
Most people go back to work the day after the surgery, although it depends on your individual experience and the difficulty of the surgery. Some people prefer to take a day off to completely recover and allow their mouth to rest after the procedure.
How Do I Take Care of My Dental Implants?
Dental implants should be treated like your natural teeth, with daily brushing and flossing, and twice a year check-ups. Your dentists may suggest investing in an electric toothbrush and a water flosser. With the right care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Dental Implant Maintenance
The daily care of dental implants is very similar to the care of natural teeth. Restored dental implants should be kept clean and plaque free twice a day using a brush and floss. Cleaning is especially important after meals. This is accomplished by gently brushing, giving special attention to all sides of the implant.
Oral hygiene aids may include:
Other supplies that may be recommended by the doctor can include:
Antimicrobial mouth rinses
What can happen if I do not take care of my Dental Implants?
Vancouver implant problems dental implants can develop problems without consistent daily care. The earliest sign of a problem begins with the observation of bleeding. This is known as mucositis. The current scientific evidence suggests that this may be successfully treated and is reversible if caught early. Unfortunately, if it progresses to bone loss, also known as peri-implantitis, the bone loss is not reversible. If peri-implantitis is not treated it can lead to advanced bone loss and the removal of the implant.
What should my Dentist check for at every cleaning visit?
For an accurate assessment of implant health, dentists and hygienists need to probe and measure the gums around the implant the same was as around teeth, check and compare x-rays annually, look for looseness, check the bite and check all of the components that are attached to the implants to make sure that they are functioning properly.
What are aligners made of, and what do they look like?
The virtually invisible aligners, which are made of a thermoplastic material uniquely developed for the Invisalign treatment plan, look similar to teeth-whitening trays. A series of Invisalign aligners are custom-made for you, to move your teeth in the sequence determined by your doctor.
How do the aligners straighten teeth?
Over the course of treatment, you will be supplied with a series of aligners. Each aligner will make slight adjustments to tooth position. During each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, a process that is mapped out in advance by your doctor, specifically for your situation. When the aligners are placed on the teeth, they cause the teeth to gradually shift from their current position. The main difference is that Invisalign not only controls the force but also the timing of the force application. After approximately two weeks, you will begin using the next set of aligners, which will continue the teeth straightening process.
Is Invisalign really effective?
More than 3 million patients have been treated with Invisalign worldwide with great success. The aligners move teeth just as effectively as traditional metal and wire braces.
What are the other primary benefits of Invisalign comparing to Traditional Braces?
Invisalign aligners are removable and you can eat whatever you want. For the best results and a timely outcome, aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. However, unlike with braces, you have the flexibility to remove your aligners to eat and drink what you want during treatment. And you can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would, for fresh breath and good oral hygiene.
Avoid Pain and Irritation. The metal wires in traditional braces are notorious for causing pain, discomfort, and mouth sores. And since the treatment is long-term, patients are forced to live in discomfort for months. Invisalign straighteners are made of smooth plastic that is carefully molded to your teeth for a comfortable, pain-free fit. Some people might experience temporary discomfort for a few days at the beginning of each new stage of treatment. This discomfort typically goes away in a couple of days.
Visit the Dentist Less Often. Traditional braces require frequent visits to the dentist for tightening and correction. And since they compromise your oral health, you might also need more cleanings and intensive treatments. Patients who choose Invisalign straighteners instead typically only need to see a dentist every four to six weeks. That is an easy commitment to fit into a busy schedule.
How much does Invisalign cost?
We know cost is a big question for anyone considering orthodontic work. In most cases, Invisalign treatment is comparable to the cost of traditional braces. However, as with other medical treatments, only your Invisalign-trained doctor can determine the cost, based on your specific needs. Other factors may include your treatment goals, the difficulty of your case, how long you are in treatment, where you live, and additional factors determined by your dentist or orthodontist. Also, check your dental insurance plan—Invisalign treatment is covered by many dental insurance policies. And many doctors can offer flexible and affordable monthly payment plans as well.
Can I go to any dental for treatment with Invisalign?
While Invisalign can be used with virtually any treatment philosophy, special training is needed. All orthodontists and dentists interested in treating patients with Invisalign must attend training to become qualified and proficient in the various requirements for treating patients before treatments will be accepted from their office. More than 82,000 dentists and orthodontists worldwide are already trained to treat patients using Invisalign.
Will Invisalign still work if I am an adult/older?
Many adults are choosing to get their smiles into alignment – in fact, nearly one-quarter of our orthodontic patients are adults! While traditional braces are becoming more accepted for both adults and kids, Invisalign is a great option for adults who may not want the full “braces” experience and would prefer a lower-profile, nearly invisible option.
What if I’ve had braces, veneers, bridgework or have other special dental conditions will Invisalign aligners work with them?
Please consult with your dentist about any special orthodontic cases, such as veneers, braces.
Can I just wear the aligners while I sleep?
No. The aligners must be in place a minimum of 20 to 22 hours a day for the treatment to be effective.
Can I smoke while wearing the aligners?
Smoking is discouraged while wearing aligners because it is possible for the aligners to become stained or discoloured.
What is the best way to clean my aligners?
The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water and using the Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or special cleaning tablets. It’s important that you brush your teeth after each meal and prior to re-inserting your aligners to maintain proper hygiene.
What happens after the Invisalign treatment is completed?
Is there a retainer necessary? Wearing a retainer after any orthodontic treatment is an important step because it keeps teeth stable in their new positions. If you want your teeth to remain in their ideal position, it is best to wear a retainer as directed by an Invisalign Provider. In many cases, your last aligner will be your temporary retainer, until your retention option is determined. Your Invisalign Provider can advise you on long-term retention options.
Will Invisalign really work for Me?
To find out if you’re an Invisalign candidate, first make an appointment with your dentist on the website. In addition to determining if your particular dental problem can be fixed with Invisalign, you need to assess your lifestyle to determine if Invisalign will work for you. When you select traditional braces, they remain in your mouth 24 hours a day, but Invisalign is removable for eating, brushing and flossing. You still need to wear the aligners 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing them when absolutely necessary. Wearing them only while you sleep is not enough. If you tend to lose things or are forgetful, Invisalign might not be as effective for you.
Who should use teeth whitening?
Generally, anyone with healthy gums and teeth that are looking to brighten up their smile can benefit from the professional teeth whitening system. It has been shown to be highly effective at removing stains from teeth, including tobacco, coffee, tea, tetracycline, and various other tooth stains. A professional tooth whitening system will not affect existing dental work.
Does the whitening system work on Dentures, or Veneers?
The process was designed to enhance the natural whiteness of the enamel. Existing restorations such as tooth-colored fillings, dentures, crowns, bonding, veneers, and bridges do not lighten. This means that any pre-existing dental work may need to be replaced to match the new tooth shade achieved in the natural teeth, should a bleaching process proceed. Clients typically apply the gel product only to their natural teeth, allowing these treated teeth to lighten up to match a cap, crown, or veneer.
Is tooth whitening bad for your teeth?
Studies of teeth whitening products using 10% carbamide peroxide showed no effect on the hardness or mineral content of a tooth’s enamel surface. Professional teeth whitening does not cause permanent damage to the enamel on your teeth and is considered harmless by most dental health professionals.
How many shades whiter can I expect my teeth to get?
The amount of whitening varies from client to client and cannot be predicted or guaranteed; but in general use, teeth may lighten anywhere from 6 to 12 shades on the whitening shade guide. The results depend greatly on how discolored the teeth were originally. Yellow or brown teeth, surface stains, and uniformly darkened teeth are easiest to whiten. Additional whitening treatments may be needed to achieve the desired shade, especially with heavily stained teeth.
How long do the teeth whitening effects last?
Teeth whitening is not permanent. People who expose their teeth to foods and beverages that cause staining may see the whiteness start to fade in as little as one month. Those who avoid foods and beverages that stain may be able to wait one year or longer before another whitening treatment or touch-up is needed.
How long does the treatment take?
The process takes only 30-minutes, (2 – 15-minute applications) to achieve a whiter and brighter smile. It is broken down into two 15-minute applications to allow for maximum gel concentration and light exposure, without being under the light for too long of a period to cause gum irritation. Individuals with sensitive teeth may reduce the intensity of the bleaching unit by choosing a lower power setting and those with very heavy stains may need additional treatments.
What happens during teeth whitening?
When you visit your dental office for professional tooth whitening, your dentist will have you wear a tray during the treatment that will cover your teeth with a specially formulated whitening gel. Also, your dentist may use a type of light to enhance the whitening effects of the gel.
Does the treatment hurt?
Teeth whitening may cause sensitivity during or after treatment and slight discomfort in the gums. Both side effects are usually temporary and will disappear a few days after treatment. It is important to tell your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms as the dentist will be able to advise how best to cope in the meantime.
How can I make my results last longer?
Luckily, there are several steps that you can take to help retain your tooth whitening results. First, avoid eating or drinking any items that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, soda, berries, and anything tomato based. If you do choose to eat and drink these items, be sure to rinse your mouth or brush your teeth afterward. Finally, keeping up with twice-daily tooth brushing and biannual dental cleanings can help prevent stains from building up on your teeth.
Why is professional whitening better than other options?
The greatest benefit that you will gain by seeing a dentist for tooth whitening is speed. Unlike over-the-counter kits, professional whitening uses a stronger formula that can provide you with a noticeably whiter smile in a single treatment. At-home kits that you can pick up at the drugstore often take a week or longer to provide noticeable results.
My Dentist @ Boundary Park in Surrey, BC offers cosmetic and family dentistry that puts your smile on your face. Our Surrey Dentists provide access to dental care for patients of all ages.
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