Cosmetic - Edwards Family Dentistry

What Kinds of Foods Are Harmful for Teeth?

October 14, 2022 by Admin

Snacking is an activity we all do and what we choose to snack on is important. Snacks that are full ofsugar such as candy or cake may taste good, but are not good for our teeth. In addition to the sugarthesetypes of snacks contain large amounts of fat. Sugary snacks if eaten regularly can cause toothdecay. At our practice, we provide our patients with guidelines for healthy eating, and always promotehealthy choices to keep teeth free of harmful bacteria.

How Can Sugary Snacks Impact My Teeth?

Our mouths contain bacteria,and this bacteria forms a sticky material called plaque. The plaque stickson or in-between our teeth and this can cause decay. When sugary snacks are eaten the bacteria in themouth gravitates towards the sugar, and turns the sugarinto acids. This acid can damage the hardenamel that covers our teeth,and cause cavities to begin to develop. Staying away from snacksor foodsfilled with sugar can help keep the bacteria in your mouth from producing the acid that causes decay.

How Should I Choose A Healthy Snack?

When you have that urge to snack take a minute to ask yourself if the snack you chose contains sugar. Ifit does, you may want to choose another snack that would be healthier for yourteeth. Staying awayfrom gooey sweets or snacks that are very chewy is a good rule of thumb. These types of snacks canstick to the surface of your teeth and take longer to remove,exposing your teeth to sugar longer. If youdo choose to eat sweets, it maybe best to save that type of snack for after a main meal instead ofhaving that snack between meals.

We work to teach our pediatric and adult patients the benefits of healthy eating. Taking care of our oralhealth not only includes brushing or flossing,but it includes making healthy eating choices. Staying awayfrom snacks full of sugar can help prevent cavities, and keep your teeth looking and feeling great.Brushing your teeth after eating a sweet with a fluoride toothpaste can remove any harmful bacteriathat may cause cavities if left on our teeth.

What Types of Snacks Are a Good Choice?

There are many goodtastingand healthy shacks on the market today that are less harmful to our teethand body. Stickingto snacks that are lower in sugarcan help protect our teeth from decay or otherdiseases. Choosing foods like fruits or vegetables,andcrackers or bread are good choices. It may behelpful to make a healthy food list that you pick from when snacking or eating. This can help you makegood choices and stay away from those harmful sugary foods.

Examples of Smart Food Choices That Are Less Likely to Cause Tooth Decay

Fresh Vegetables of Fruits

Oranges
Bananas
Apples
Grapefruit
Broccoli
Carrots
Cucumbers
Tomatoes

Grains

Unsweetened cereals
Popcorn
Bread
Bagels
Pasta
Crackers

Milk and Dairy Products

Low or non-fat milk
Low or non-fat cheese
Low or non-fat yogurt

Meat, Nuts, Seeds

Chicken
Turkey
Nuts

Looking For a Dentist?

Many foods or snacks are harmful to our teeth and body. At our practice, we careabout the overallhealth of each patient, and always promotes healthy snacking and eating. Checking the label and sugarcontent can help you make the right decision for healthy snacking. Choosing a variety of foods from thebasic food groups can help you eat a balanced diet, and keep your teeth looking and feeling healthy.Brushing and flossing daily as well as attending your regular dental exams in our office can help keepyour oral health in check. Our team works diligently to not only care for your teeth, but care for youroverall health.

If you are looking for a dentist, our team is happy to help. To get more information or to schedule yourdental exam, contact us and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Can Dental Cleanings Damage Enamel?

October 14, 2022 by Admin

Dental cleanings are integral part of our oral health, and are typically recommended twice a year.Keeping our teeth and gums free and clear of harmful bacteria is important. Our team is proud to offergeneral dentaltreatments like dental cleanings. We strive to provide quality services for our patients,and always make sure our patients are relaxed and comfortable during their visit.

However, some patients have asked us if having their teeth cleaned regularly can damage the enamel onour teeth. We hope that this article can help address this common concern.

Can Dental Cleanings Damage Enamel?

Dental cleanings do not damage the enamel on your teeth!Cleanings safely remove the plaque andbacteria that builds up over time on the teeth and under the gums. If teeth are not cleaned regularlyinflammationcan occur,and this can lead to gum disease. Brushing at home is a great way to removebacteria from the teeth, but brushing cannot clean our teeth like a professionalcleaning.Our certifiedhygienists provide quality cleanings to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

If teeth are cleaned improperly at home or by a non-professional, damage can occur to the enamel.Enamel is extremely durable,and it is hard to chip or damageduring cleaning exams. Enamel can wearoff if patients suffer from bruxism, or use harsh brushing strokes while brushing their teeth at home.Acidic foodsor drinkscan also cause erosion to enamel on our teeth.

If you have concerns about the condition of the enamel on yourteeth,please let our team know whenyou schedule your appointment.

What Should I Expect During my Cleaning Appointment?

Dental cleanings in our office typically take anywhere from 30-45 minutes. X-rays are taken if needed,and carefully reviewed during your exam to help our team to provide a customized treatment planforeach patient. Our skilled hygienists use special tools tocarefullyremove the hard layer of plaque from apatient’s teeth, and we ensure your mouth is free of any plaque or bacteria.Our staff will discuss thehealth of your teeth and gums,and will recommend further treatment if needed.

Your oral health is extremely important to us, and we encourage our patients to keep up with regularlyscheduled dental cleanings to keep their teeth looking and feeling great. Regular dental cleanings are agreat way to prevent future issues. Dental exams give us the opportunity to catch any potential issuesearly,and prevent serious issues from developing.

Looking for a quali ty dentist in for your next Dental Exam?

If you are looking for a friendly dentist, contact us for your next dental cleaning. Our goal is to provideexceptional service in a family friendly environment. Our staff is available to answer any questions youmay have, and we welcome all new patients to our office.

If you are interested in scheduling your next dental cleaning with us, please give us a call, and one of ourstaff members will be happy to assist you.

Are Porcelain Veneers Better Than Composite Veneers?

January 18, 2022January 15, 2022 by Admin

If you have chipped, cracked, stained, or uneven teeth and are embarrassed to speak around others, veneers can transform your smile. Veneers can make your teeth look natural and the process is easy and minimally invasive. The veneers are bonded to your teeth using a cement material and little preparation is required. The two common types of veneers used today are porcelain and composite veneers. Both materials can correct imperfections and match the shade of your natural teeth.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are durable and made out of ceramic. This material is easily customized to fit your teeth and is great for correcting chips, gaps, or uneven teeth. The thin shells of porcelain are applied to the outer surface of your teeth, and the process typically only requires two office visits.

During the veneer procedure, we gently prepare your teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel. This helps the material to bond to your teeth. Our team will take impressions of your teeth and these are sent out to a lab. We can place temporary veneers while we wait for your permanent veneers to be fabricated. When you return for your second appointment, we will bond the veneers to your teeth and restore your smile.

Porcelain veneers tend to be more durable and last longer compared to composite veneers. On average, porcelain veneers last between 10-15 years and have less risk for breaking or chipping. We do recommend patients be careful with their porcelain veneers. If a veneer is damaged, the entire veneer must be replaced. Porcelain veneers look natural and are stain-resistant. They do tend to cost more compared to composite veneers, and this is because both placement and the overall process are more time-consuming.

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are similar to porcelain veneers and also help to correct gaps, chips, or uneven length. The overall process for composite veneers is a lot faster, and can be completed in just one appointment. Composite veneers are durable, but not as durable as porcelain veneers, and may not last as long. On average, composite veneers can last between 4-8 years and cost less compared to porcelain veneers.

If your composite veneers are damaged the composite material is easier to fix compared to porcelain veneers. During the composite veneer process, we prepare your teeth by cleaning the surface to ensure the veneer can bond properly to the tooth. The composite resin material is added to your teeth, and the area is cured. We then polish the teeth leaving you with a brand-new smile.

Which Type of Veneer Is Best for Me?

When choosing the best type of veneer, we will begin with a detailed consultation to examine your teeth. The veneer used will depend on the severity of the correction required and the work that is needed to restore your smile. Our team will educate you on the different types of veneers and the benefits of each to help you make the best decision.

What Are the Benefits of Veneers?

Veneers look and feel natural and comfortable.
There is little preparation required for veneers.
Veneers can be placed in only two appointments.
Veneers can help correct cracks, chips, or uneven teeth.
Veneers can close gaps between teeth.
Veneers are durable and stain-resistant.
Confidence is increased and self-esteem restored.
Veneers are low maintenance.
Veneers cost less compared to other cosmetic treatments.

Ready To Find Out More About Dental Veneers?

If you have cracked, chipped, or an uneven smile and are looking for a solution, then veneers may be what you are looking for. Veneers are cost-efficient compared to other solutions and require little preparation. Our team at Edwards Family Dentistry and help you achieve the smile you have always wanted with our cosmetic services.

At Edwards Family Dentistry, we create a welcoming and friendly environment for our patients, and our treatment rooms are equipped with the latest technology. Let our team help you feel comfortable talking and smiling around others again with our cosmetic services.

To schedule your smile consultation with us, contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Long is Wisdom Teeth Recovery?

December 30, 2021 by Admin

Wisdom teeth are the back molars in our mouths and tend to erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. Most people do not have enough room in their jaw for wisdom teeth to properly erupt. Wisdom teeth can be impacted, or cause issues once they erupt such as overcrowding or infection.

If you require wisdom teeth surgery you may wonder how the recovery will be. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure and recovery tends to be pretty easy. The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal is around a week. This depends on the person, and in some cases, the recovery period may take longer if the wisdom teeth are impacted.

What Can I Expect During My Recovery?

Wisdom teeth surgery is done in one appointment, and anesthesia is typically used to help keep patients comfortable and relaxed. After your surgery, you will be brought into a recovery room where you will be monitored until it is safe to go home. We require all patients to bring a family member or friend to the surgery to help get them home safely.

A few hours after your surgery you will regain feeling in your mouth. Swelling and some bleeding are normal, and this should subside after a few days. A cold compress can be used on your mouth at home to help with any swelling or pain. Our team will discuss pain medications, and give you instructions you can take home.

We recommend all patients follow a soft food diet and avoid any alcohol or tobacco products. Patients should avoid using a straw as this can aggravate the surgery area and cause complications. On average patients begin to feel fully recovered around three to four days after their surgery. Patients should follow good oral hygiene habits to help keep the surgery area clean and avoid infection. If you notice any prolonged pain, swelling, or bleeding that does not subside, please call our office to be seen right away.

Looking for Wisdom Teeth Removal and Want To Learn More?

If you are interested in finding out more about wisdom teeth removal contact Edwards Family Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in wisdom teeth removal and provide the highest level of care. If you are experiencing any pain, or think you may have an issue with your wisdom teeth, we recommend contacting us right away. Any issues with wisdom teeth should be addressed immediately to avoid complications.

To find out more, or to schedule your wisdom teeth consultation, contact Edwards Family Dentistry today!

How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Generally Take?

December 22, 2021December 15, 2021 by Admin

Taking care of our teeth is important and can help avoid problems or unnecessary visits to the dentist’s office later in life. We recommend patients visit our office for their cleaning and exam at least twice a year. These appointments are crucial and can help maintain your oral health and detect issues before they become serious. Bacteria and plaque build-up over time and your toothbrush at home can only remove so much. Dental cleanings are easy and the typical dental cleaning and exam only take approximately 30-45 minutes. This depends on the condition of your teeth and if any problems are identified.

At Edwards Family Dentistry prevention is extremely important. We help our patients review their oral hygiene routine at home and recommend changes to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. Many patients avoid visiting the dentist due to anxiety or fear. At Edwards Family Dentistry we create a calm and relaxing experience and can help you get the dental care you need. Our doctors have years of experience and love to help patients achieve the perfect smile.

What Can I Expect During My Appointment?

When you visit our office, we create a calm and welcoming environment. Our treatment rooms are updated with the latest technology and equipment. During the visit, we thoroughly clean each patient’s teeth using special dental tools to remove any plaque or tarter. Our team will examine the condition of both your teeth and gums to ensure everything looks healthy. We take x-rays and create a customized treatment plan for each patient. Our team will perform an oral cancer screening by checking your mouth, throat, neck, and tongue for any areas of concern. Our doctor will meet with each patient to discuss any areas of concern and follow-up visits.

Why Are Dental Cleanings and Exams Important?

Getting comfortable visiting the dentist and attending your regular cleaning and exam appointments can help set the stage for the future. Dental exams allow our doctors to get in front of any issues early on, and this can help prevent serious issues from developing in the future. During your exam, we can detect broken fillings, cavities, or other oral concerns. Our team can remove plaque and tartar that brushing at home cannot reach. We recommend patients brush and floss daily at home to help keep their teeth and gums looking and feeling great. If you ever notice any pain or discomfort, we encourage you to contact our office right away, and we will ensure you are seen as soon as possible.

Are You Due for Your Regular Dental Cleaning and Exam?

If you are ready to schedule your dental cleaning and exam, we encourage you to contact us. Let our team help you care for your teeth and keep your smile looking its best. We provide exceptional service and quality dental care you can trust.

To schedule your appointment and join our dental family, contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

November 14, 2021November 1, 2021 by Admin

Veneers help patients who have discoloration from dental procedures or stains from food and drugs restore their teeth. Veneers can also help those that have chipped, broken, or uneven teeth. Veneers create an even smile, close gaps between teeth, and look natural.

Veneers are similar to shells that cover the surface of teeth. They are made out of a porcelain material and are highly durable. Veneers are stain resistant, and can last between 10-15 years. Once you have your veneers placed it is important to take good care of your teeth. Veneers can become damaged just like any other tooth. Following a good oral hygiene routine at home, and taking good care of your teeth is important to help lengthen the life of your veneers. If you are looking for a long-lasting permanent solution to help restore your smile, veneers can help.

How To Care for My Veneers?

There are things you can do to help take good care of your veneers and lengthen their life. Never bite down on any hard objects or food with your veneers. If you suffer from bruxism or clench your teeth, we recommend wearing a mouthguard to prevent damage to your veneers. Stay away from biting your nails as this also damage your veneers.

Veneers are extremely durable and are a great solution for patients seeking that perfect smile. They can last for years if they are taken care of properly. Always brush and floss your teeth daily to keep your veneers looking and feeling great. We recommend visiting our office twice a year for your exam and cleaning. Our doctors can make sure your teeth are healthy, and your veneers are in good condition.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Veneers?

If you are interested in finding out how dental veneers may benefit you, contact Edwards Family Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in restoring smiles, and love to help patients achieve that smile they have always wanted. Let our team help you restore your confidence, and give you a smile that looks natural, and is long lasting.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Is Dental Bonding Permanent?

September 15, 2021 by Admin

If you have decided to restore your smile dental bonding is a great option. Bonding is not permanent, and can be reversed if necessary. Bonding is very durable, and if you have any wear or tear it can be repaired easily. This treatment can take care of cosmetic issues, is quick, and less expensive compared to other options. Dental bonding is great for repairing decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth. Bonding can even correct discolored teeth, and looks natural.

The composite material used can be shaped to match your natural teeth. Other benefits include changing the length of a tooth, or closing spaces between teeth. The procedure can typically be done in one day, and no anesthesia is needed. Dental bonding can last between 5-10 years before the composite material begins to wear down.

How Does the Dental Bonding Process Work?

Dental bonding does not require any removal of your tooth enamel. During the process your tooth is gently etched using a mild acid solution to help roughen the surface. This allows the composite material to bond to your tooth easily. The tooth-colored resin material is applied to the area, and is then cured with an ultraviolet light. Your tooth is shaped and polished to match your natural teeth. This process takes between 30-60 minutes.

Does Dental Bonding Last?

Dental bonding requires the patients to take care of the area that was bonded. The composite material used is very durable, but is never as strong as your natural teeth. With dental bonding there is risk of the bonding material separating from the tooth. Dental bonding can also chip or break. This is unlikely, but we do recommend patients do take care of the area that was bonded to avoid any complications. The good news is that dental bonding can be repaired. Dental bonding can last between 5-10 years or longer if taken care of properly.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Bonding?

If you are ready to find out more about how dental bonding may benefit you, contact Edwards Family Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, and love to help patients achieve that smile they have always wanted.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

How Can I Remove Coffee Stains From My Teeth?

June 15, 2021 by Admin

Coffee is a popular beverage, and many enjoy that cup or two in the morning each day. The downside to coffee is that it can cause staining on your teeth. There are treatments patients can do at home, or in our office to remove those annoying coffee stains. At Edwards Family Dentistry, we offer many cosmetic dental services, and one of our most popular is teeth whitening treatment.

If you are tired of looking at yellow or stained teeth from coffee, then Edwards Family Dentistry is here to help. Our team provides a detailed consultation process to evaluate your teeth and mouth, and create a customized treatment that will work for you. We will discuss all of your teeth whitening options, and give you tips and tricks on how to keep your teeth white at home.

Why Does Coffee Stain Our Teeth?

Coffee contains tannins, and this helps give coffee that deep flavor and brown color. Our teeth are filled with many little pores, and the tannins tend to stick to our teeth when we drink coffee. Plaque attracts the tannins and those can easily be cleaned away. Stains on the enamel of your teeth will need to be treated with a tooth whitening procedure.

How Can Teeth Whitening Help?

Teeth whitening procedures can be done in our office or in the comfort of your own home. Our treatments use a high-quality gel to whiten your teeth safely, and remove coffee stains. The peroxides in the gel are able to reach through the enamel and bleach the stain away. Teeth whitening can restore your smile, and give you bright white teeth in just a few treatments. Let our team help you transform your teeth and restore your confidence. To find out more about our in-office or at-home whitening services, we encourage you to schedule a cosmetic consultation.

What Can I Do at Home To Prevent Coffee Stains?

Drink your coffee through a straw to avoid direct contact with your teeth.
Use a whitening toothpaste or mouthwash.
Rinse your mouth out or brush your teeth after drinking coffee.
Avoid charcoal toothpaste as this can damage your enamel.

Interested in Whitening Your Teeth?

If you are interested in finding out more about our teeth whitening services, contact Edwards Family Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to help you.

What is the Most Permanent Teeth Whitening Procedure?

March 15, 2021 by Admin

Choosing to whiten your teeth is a way to brighten your smile and boost confidence. Many patients look for a process that lasts the longest and requires minimal maintenance going forward. Teeth whitening options include in office whitening systems, systems you take home given to you by your dentist, and over the counter treatments. Talking with your dentist about your goals can help you to choose the best treatment that will work for you.

Teeth whitening targets two types of stains. The first is intrinsic, and this type of discoloration is more permanent and caused by an injury, medications, or fluoride overexposure. Intrinsic stains can be harder to whiten and may not respond well to teeth whitening. The other type of stain is extrinsic. Extrinsic stains are stains on the surface or outer layer of enamel. This type of stain is caused by dark liquids or foods. The best way to treat both types of stains is with a professional tooth whitening system.

What Procedure Is the Best and Will Last the Longest?

The systems provided by your dentist in their office are typically the strongest and long lasting treatments. They offer the most dramatic results and are quicker compared to other methods. Typically this type of whitening treatment takes less than an hour, and uses a light to activate the gel to penetrate deeply into your teeth. Once you have completed the in office process you can opt to take a whitening treatment kit with you. This allows patients to keep up with their whitening treatments at home.

Many in office treatments can target both intrinsic and extrinsic stains giving patients amazing results in little time. In office treatments can brighten teeth up to 16 shades lighter and the results last longer. In some cases depending on the treatment used, touch up treatments afterwards are not required.

Scheduling a Consultation

The first step to whiter brighter teeth is scheduling a consultation in our office. This gives our doctor the opportunity to examine your teeth and gums, and determine if you are a good candidate. Our team discusses each patient’s goals, and we work with you to choose the whitening system that will work best. Documenting your progress from start to finish is a great way for patients to track their results.

Interested in Finding Out More?

Take that next step to a whiter smile, and inquire about our whitening treatments. We care about your oral health and want you to be proud of your smile.

To schedule your teeth whitening consultation, contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What Should I Look For When Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist?

February 22, 2021February 21, 2021 by Admin

Cosmetic dentists can help enhance or improve the appearance of your teeth, gums, and jaw. If you are unhappy with your smile, or have cracked, broken, or misshapen teeth, finding a good cosmetic dentist is important. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the overall appearance of your smile. This includes the color, shape, size, and position of your teeth.

Searching for a good cosmetic dentist can be stressful, but knowing what to look out for can help you find a dentist that is perfect for you.

What to Consider When Searching for a Cosmetic Dentist

Check for a dentist’s credentials by visiting their website and reading a biography about the doctor. If this is not available contact the office directly to collect this information.
Ask for referrals and talk to people that have had prior cosmetic dental procedures.
Look for a dentist that has continuing education. Continuing education shows that a dentist is constantly improving their knowledge, learning new techniques using the latest technology, and expanding on skills.
When reading their biography look to see how long they have been practicing cosmetic dentistry and how many procedures they have done over the years.
Look at before and after photos to help get a good idea of the doctor’s skills.
Schedule a cosmetic consultation to learn about the doctor and practice. Consultations allow you to discuss your concerns, and learn about what treatment options are available. This will also give you a good idea if you feel comfortable with the dentist you choose.

Choosing the best cosmetic dentist for you is important. Knowing their background, expertise, and work they have done can help you make a decision. Achieving that perfect smile to boost confidence, or correct an issue can be life changing. Taking charge of your dental health can give you that smile you have always wanted.

Looking to Schedule a Cosmetic Consultation?

Our detailed consultation process gives patients the ability to discuss their concerns and smile goals. Our skilled team will examine your mouth, teeth, and jaw and recommend treatment options that work for you. Starting with a consultation can give you the ability learn about our doctors, practice, and help you decide what treatment may be best.

To schedule your cosmetic consultation and begin the process to that perfect smile, contact our office and our staff will be happy to assist you.