Cosmetic Gum Contouring for a Better Smile

A great smile does wonders to enhance a personality, increase confidence and the way others perceive you. Ever wondered what exactly makes up a ‘perfect’ smile? An ideal smile is not just white teeth; it is essentially harmony or ‘balance’ of the teeth and gums displayed, with an individual’s face. The size, shape and hue of teeth, the shape of the gum line framing teeth, the degree of lip parting all add up to make a smile ‘just right’.

 

Aesthetic dentistry is aimed at producing dental work that enhances an individual’s appearance, and includes various procedures aimed at modifying dental appearance, especially that of highly visible front teeth. While these include cosmetic teeth reshaping, and veneering to alter the shape and look of teeth, just altering the teeth may not always suffice to change a smile, in some cases the gum line requires alteration as well. The cosmetic procedure of gum or gingival contouring involves selectively reshaping the gums to produce a more pleasing appearance.

 

‘Gummy smiles’ or excessive gum display, small appearing teeth, uneven looking teeth are common issues which though not always, but at many times, can be attributed to excess gum tissue or an imbalanced gum-line, which are amenable to the relatively non-invasive procedure of cosmetic gum contouring.

 

Cosmetic gum contouring can be planned as a part of an overall ‘smile designing’ treatment, where the shape of teeth are changed by veneers or orthodontics, and gingival reshaping is done as well. Orthodontic braces produce changes in position of teeth and predispose to gum inflammation as they make brushing difficult, and are often associated with some gum overgrowth. Thus, when the braces are removed, even though teeth may be aligned, their appearance may be short due to some areas of overgrown gum tissue. This usually requires cosmetic gum contouring to refine the aesthetics.

 

Sally, a 23 year old grad student says;” I had finished my orthdontics at last and had expected a ‘Hollywood’ smile but was disappointed. My orthodontist referred me to a periodontist in Houston. He first showed me on a model how gum contouring would appear and changed my look in one short painless visit!”

 

Prior to planning gum contouring, the dental team usually performs a smile analysis. Gum contouring, technically known as gingivectomy or gingivoplasty can be done in a single sitting under local anasthesia. Being minimally invasive it usually doesn’t require stitches and produces no or mild post-operative discomfort.

Dental Implants – Will my teeth look natural? – DO NOT USE

The decision to get dental implants to replace missing teeth is often influenced at least in part by cosmetic concerns. So, it’s only natural to wonder if your new implants will look, well, natural. With the latest implant technology and the skills of an implant dentist in Houston experienced in placing them, you’ll never have to reveal that your smile isn’t the one you were born with. In fact, if your objective is a smile with a natural appearance, dental implants should be your first choice.

Dental implants can replace either a single tooth or multiple teeth, and in either case, the team that creates the implants will take care to ensure that the appliance fits in with the existing teeth in shade and shape. Additionally, because dental implants offer a stand-alone solution, there’s no need to compromise adjacent healthy teeth, which must be covered with crowns when a bridge is used to replace missing teeth. Bridges carry the risk of permanent damage to nearby teeth, although that certainly doesn’t occur in every case.

You can also use the same oral hygiene routines with your implants as you do with your natural teeth, which will also improve your appearance. In particular, dental implants offer better access to interproximal areas, or the spaces between the teeth, allowing for more thorough flossing.

Beyond the cosmetic benefits, dental implants approximate natural teeth in a number of other ways, as well. Implants tend to be more comfortable than alternatives, and they last longer, too.

Perhaps most importantly, implants prevent bone loss in the jaw. Because an implant is actually anchored to the bone with a titanium screw, it does the best job of simulating an actual tooth from a biological perspective. While bone might begin to erode in the area of missing teeth that are replaced by a bridge or dentures, the implant’s screw serves as a sort of root, encouraging the jaw bone to remain in place. The implant’s more extensive structure also tends to prevent other teeth from shifting to fill the gap left by the missing tooth.

What Should I Look for in an Implant Dentist?

If you are considering dental implants, one of the most important decisions you can make is which dental implant dentist to use. There are several things to keep in mind as you look for just the right person to help you regain your missing teeth. The right dentist can help ensure a successful procedure and long-term satisfaction with your implants.

Implant Dentistry Consultation

Your quest for dental implants should begin with a consultation with a dental implant dentist. You might even consult with more than one to be sure you’re comfortable with the recommended procedure as well as the dentist himself. As you speak to your dentist, there are several things to keep in mind.

  • Am I comfortable with this dentist?
  • Does the dentist answer all my questions?
  • Have I been referred to this dentist by satisfied patients?
  • Does the dentist have a before and after book or online gallery so I can see his previous work?

If you feel comfortable with the dentist, know people who have been happy with his past work, and feel you have gotten satisfactory answers to all of your questions, chances are that you will work well with this dentist.

Deciding on Dental Implants

If you are considering tooth replacement, dental implants are one of your best choices. They will last for many years and do not have to be refitted periodically like dentures. They also remain in your mouth permanently and do not shift or fall out at inconvenient times. The root of the implant is embedded directly in the jawbone, and so stimulates bone growth whenever you chew. This will keep your jaw healthy and prevent your face from changing shape over time, as can happen with long-term denture wearers.

During your consultation, you’ll also determine if you have any concerns or any health conditions that might interfere with your ability to successfully recover from an implant procedure. Be sure to ask any questions you might have, and in the end you are likely to be very pleased with your new teeth.

Contact the office of Dr. Bernard Jin to schedule a dental implant consultation today.

Why Choose a Veneer Instead of a Replacement Crown?

Veneers are a popular choice for cosmetic work on the front teeth. In many cases, they are an excellent alternative to a crown, particularly if the tooth is not severely damaged or has not undergone a root canal. For situations where damage is minor, or where treatment is meant to correct severe discoloration, a veneer is a much better choice.

Veneers vs. Crowns—What is the Difference?

There is a big difference between veneers and dental crowns. The major contrast is between the procedures used to place the restorations. A crown requires significant restructuring of the tooth, while a veneer requires very little modification. A veneer also looks much more natural; because the thin porcelain reflects light much like your natural enamel. A crown, even a natural-colored crown, tends to be more opaque, and does not always look like natural enamel.

Because a veneer is so much less invasive, many cosmetic dentists recommend this treatment over a crown for a number of cosmetic applications. A consultation with your cosmetic dentist will help you decide which treatment is most appropriate for your needs. [pullquote]There is a big difference between veneers and dental crowns. The major contrast is between the procedures used to place the restorations.[/pullquote]

Uses for Veneers and Crowns

Veneers are used for a number of different cosmetic dentistry applications. These include treating:

•    Cracked teeth
•    Pitted tooth surfaces
•    Severe or intrinsic staining
•    Small gaps between the teeth
•    Minor misalignment

Although crowns were once used regularly for similar treatments, they are more often reserved now for more serious issues such as:

•    Anchoring a bridge for tooth replacement
•    Repairing severely damaged teeth
•    Repairing cracked teeth that have already received fillings
•    Treating a tooth after a root canal procedure

Both these procedures require a two-step process. First, the tooth is restructured as necessary and molds are made of the teeth. The veneer or crown is then constructed at an off-site lab and temporary restorations protect the teeth during this period, which usually only takes a few days. At the second office visit, the permanent veneer or crown is placed.

Contact the doctor Family Dentistry and find out which option is best for you and your smile.

How Do I Choose a Dental Implant Specialist?

If you are planning to have dental implants, one of the most important decisions you can make is your choice of implant dentist. Be sure you know what questions to ask and how to determine which dentist you’ll be most comfortable with. Choosing the right dentist will help ensure you get the best possible results from your implant surgery.

How to Choose a Dental Implant Specialist

As with any major surgical procedure, your dental implant procedure will begin with a consultation with your implant dentist. You’ll discuss your goals for your surgery, and the dentist will evaluate your eligibility for the procedure and any issues that might affect your healing or the long-term success of your implants.

During this consultation, be sure to ask any questions you might have about the procedure. Your dentist will want to know if you have any conditions or are taking any medications that could make it harder for you to heal after your procedure, or that could cause other problems, such as some medications to treat osteoporosis. Be sure you feel comfortable with the dentist, and that he answers all your questions clearly. Also ask to look at before and after pictures of the dentist’s work, and speak to previous clients if at all possible. A referral from a friend who has already had implants is invaluable.

Determining Your Eligibility for Implants

There are some conditions that can affect your eligibility for dental implants. In some cases, your implant dentist can help you determine an alternative treatment that can overcome these problems. In other cases, you might discover implants are not the best choice for you. Your dentist should be up front with you about these issues.

Some conditions that can affect your eligibility for implants include:

•    A history of smoking
•    Gum disease
•    Lack of bone mass in the jaw
•    Diabetes
•    Immune system disorder
•    Some medications

If any of these problems are applicable, consult with your dentist to determine if implants are still appropriate. Some treatments, such as bone grafting or pre-surgical treatment for gum disease, can enable your implant procedure to move forward successfully.

Contact our skilled and experienced dental team to learn more about any of our procedures by calling our office to schedule an appointment today.

Chipped Denture: What are my options?

Chips or other damage to your dentures can be quite frustrating. You want to look your best, but damage to your new teeth requires you to visit your dentist for repairs. This can be inconvenient, and if you can’t get in right away, continuing to wear your damaged dentures can be embarrassing. So what options are available if your denture becomes chipped or damaged?

Denture Repair

Dentures can be repaired if they are broken, chipped, stained, or otherwise damaged. In some cases, your dentist can complete the repairs fairly quickly. In other cases, you might require a whole new denture, which can take some time. For minor damage, you can use an over-the-counter repair kit, but this is not a permanent fix, and eventually you’ll have to have long-term repairs if you want your teeth back to normal.

Your dentures might also require repair if they have become loose or uncomfortable. This can be fixed by re-lining the prosthetic, which means your dentist makes an adjustment to the portion of the denture that lies against your gums. It’s common to have to have this kind of adjustment made every few years, since your jaw tends to change shape with long-term denture wear. Eventually, facial changes combined with wear and tear of the denture will require you to get a new prosthetic.

Other Options—Dental Implants

Another option if your denture has become damaged, chipped, stained, or is no longer comfortable, is dental implants. Implants provide a permanent, natural-looking alternative to dentures, and will also eliminate or greatly reduce the tendency of your jawbone to deteriorate as you age. Your dental implant dentist can evaluate your health and the state of your jawbone to determine if implants are a good option for you.

Implants are placed directly in your jaw, with a root made of titanium to support your new prosthetic teeth. The titanium bonds to the bone and stimulates it as you chew, encouraging the bone tissue to grow. Instead of a denture that can break or become loose and uncomfortable, you’ll have a full set of teeth that work and feel just like your original, natural teeth.

Contact the office of Dr. Bernard Jin if you are experiencing problems with your current denture.  Contact us to schedule an appointment today.

How are Crowns, Veneers and Bonding Used in Cosmetic Dentistry?

Crowns, veneers and bonding are all used in cosmetic dentistry, but for slightly different applications. Your cosmetic dentist can determine which treatment or combination of treatments is best for your individual needs. These procedures are used for different types of cosmetic problems and can also be used for restorations.

Dental Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a popular treatment for the front teeth. They can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic issues, including:

  • Severe discoloration
  • Chipping, pitting or minor cracking
  • Slight misalignment
  • Slight gaps

Veneers are affixed to the tooth surfaces with a special bonding agent. They are carefully color-matched and custom-made so they are indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Veneers are now used in many cosmetic applications for which crowns were previously the only option. [pullquote]Crowns, veneers and bonding are all used in cosmetic dentistry, but for slightly different applications. [/pullquote]

Crowns and Bonding

Dental crowns are a more invasive treatment than veneers and so are used less often. To place a crown, the dentist must reshape the tooth to make room for it. The crown is then secured over the tooth and cemented in place. Crowns can be made of metal, porcelain, or metal that is bonded with porcelain. In general, metal or porcelain-bonded metal are better materials for the back teeth, as they must withstand higher levels of pressure. Porcelain crowns are better for the front teeth, since they provide a more natural appearance.

Crowns are used to restore severely damaged teeth, cracked teeth, or teeth with decay that have already had large fillings placed. They are also used to repair teeth after a root canal.

Bonding uses a resin to repair breaks or chips in the teeth. Your cosmetic dentist might also recommend it for misshapen or asymmetrical teeth. The resin is placed on the tooth, cured with a light, then sculpted into the correct shape. Bonding is a much easier way to correct the shape of the tooth than a crown, which used to be the treatment of choice for this type of restoration or cosmetic application.

Contact our skilled team of cosmetic dentists at the doctor Family Dentistry to learn more about which of these procedures is right for you.

Purpose of a Dental Sealant

Dental sealants are an innovation that have greatly reduced the likelihood of childhood tooth decay, especially in the molars, which are particularly vulnerable. Dentists have begun to use sealants on patients as soon as their permanent molars have come in. If your child’s permanent molars have emerged, you should discuss the option of sealants with your dentist.

How Sealants Work

Sealants are a special, protective substance that is painted over the surface of the molars. The sealant fills the small crevices in the molars, making it less likely that food particles will become caught in them, creating an environment friendly to bacteria that cause tooth decay. Although you should be sure your child practices proper oral hygiene to help prevent decay, sealants can provide additional protection.

The procedure for placing sealants is simple and relatively quick. First, a special gel is painted onto the tooth. This gel will roughen the tooth surface slightly so the sealants adhere better. The gel is then removed, and the tooth is clean. Then the sealant is painted directly onto the molars, then hardened with a light. There is no discomfort involved, so you can reassure your child that the process will be comfortable. Your child will have to sit still for several minutes while the sealants are hardened, so discussing this with her before the appointment might help the appointment go more smoothly.

When Should My Child Have Sealants?

Sealants are usually applied as soon as the first set of permanent teeth has completely grown in. This usually occurs when a child is about six years old. Dentists observe these teeth to be sure they have come in all the way, at which point they usually recommend that sealants be used. When your child is about twelve, the second set of molars arrives, and these should also be sealed to prevent decay. Additional applications of sealants might be necessary at intervals, since the sealant can wear off due to everyday wear and tear. Your family dentist at the doctor Family Dentistry will evaluate the state of the sealants over time and determine if they should be redone. Call our office at our office to schedule an appointment today.

Which Teeth are Suitable for Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a great way to spruce up your smile without undergoing an extensive procedure or spending a large amount of money. In general, teeth whitening focuses on the front teeth, which are most visible. Results are dramatic and rapid, giving you a brighter smile as soon as you get up from the dentist’s chair.

Whitening Your Teeth

Most people, when correcting discolored teeth, are most concerned about the front teeth. These are the teeth we see when you smile or talk, so these are the teeth you want to look their best.

In-office teeth whitening uses a bleaching agent on the front surfaces of your front teeth. Your cosmetic dentist paints this on your teeth after applying a protective gel to your lips and gums. The whitener remains in place for about twenty minutes, then is removed so the process can be repeated one or two more times for optimum results. [pullquote]In general, teeth whitening focuses on the front teeth, which are most visible. [/pullquote]

Another whitening process uses special trays custom made to fit your mouth. You place the whitening agent in the trays, and then you wear the trays for about fifteen minutes once or twice a day according to your dentist’s instructions. This type of whitening can extend to some of your back teeth, depending upon how far back the tray goes and how your dentist instructs you to use the whitening agent.

Ways to Whiten Back Teeth

Traditional teeth whitening often causes mild sensitivity to treated teeth. If you are concerned about sensitivity in your back teeth, you might want to avoid exposing them to a whitener. However, if you’d like to see your back teeth look a bit whiter, a whitening toothpaste might be a good option. This way you can whiten your teeth easily while you brush. These toothpastes typically use baking soda to gently remove stains. A whitening mouthwash might also help brighten your back teeth if you are concerned about their appearance.

Contact our team of dentists at the doctor Family Dentistry for additional information about brightening the look of your molars if you are self-conscious about their appearance.

Dental Implants for Completely Edentulous

To be completely edentulous, or without any natural teeth, is a condition for which one can never be fully prepared. It’s a condition that never feels “normal”, and it presents an ongoing challenge for a significant portion of our society. Anyone with dentures can tell you that the simple act of eating or speaking can fill you with anxiety as you feel like everyone in the vicinity can see your false teeth more than they can see you.

That’s because traditional dentures can tend to feel like a foreign object in your mouth, day after day. They can feel like you’re wearing shoes that just don’t fit or glasses that were made for someone else. And, no amount of denture glue or adjustments can provide the long-term relief that you desire.

Fortunately, your dental implant dentist can provide you with a solution that immediately allows you to take your mind off of your teeth and begin focusing on the art of living! By incorporating dental implants with the foundation of a traditional denture, your dentist can provide you with a smile that no longer feels as though it belongs to someone else.

With Teeth to Stay- All in 1 Day (also known as All-on-4), your denture can be anchored with 4 dental implants for permanent stability. It’s exciting to know that you’ll be able to enjoy your new smile on the very same day that the implants are placed. Today, immediate dental implant function is a widely accepted treatment method for permanently replacing missing teeth in edentulous patients.

The ability to immediately rehabilitate a patient who has experienced total tooth loss with hybrid prosthesis represents a viable treatment solution as an alternative to more invasive and extensive surgical procedures. In fact, Teeth to Stay- All in 1 Day is a minimally invasive technique that is safe for virtually all edentulous patients, regardless of age or sex, who are determined to be in relatively good health.

To find out if Teeth to Stay- All in 1 Day could be right for you, contact the office of Dr. Bernard Jin today for a personalized consultation.