Common Dental Conditions Treated with a Dental Crown

Dental crowns are cap-like fixtures that dental professionals may use to protect, restore, or fortify a patient’s damaged teeth. They may help with a number of dental conditions.

If you have any of the following conditions and want to bring back your perfect smile, a crown may be the best treatment option for you:

Chipped or Broken Teeth

Chipped or broken teeth from injury are usually treated with a filling. However, if the extent of tooth structure lost during an injury is too much for a filling to cover, a cracked or shattered tooth may require a dental crown. 

This is most common on upper premolars and lower molars, which have natural grooves along the tooth’s length.

Because of their closeness to the jaw joint, the molars are subjected to higher occlusal pressures. It is preferable to repair a fractured tooth before you notice any symptoms. This preventative technique can frequently prevent root canal treatment from being required.

Extreme Tooth Decay 

A tooth with significant decay lacks enough healthy enamel and dentin to prevent further degeneration. 

A crown covering may be required to eliminate the current damage to the tooth and safeguard it for years to come. Regular dental visits help detect minor pockets of deterioration before they become more significant problems.

Misshapen or Small Teeth

Teeth that are smaller than usual due to congenital conditions, such as “peg laterals,” can often be corrected with crown coverage. Other concerns such as tooth size and orientation may also benefit from crown covering.

A Misaligned Bite 

Your bite may be misaligned due to losing teeth, teeth grinding, or genetics. Your cosmetic dentist may recommend a dental crown in this case. Having a dental crown can help shorten or lengthen the teeth and correct the misalignment.

Having Existing Damaged or Ill-Fitting Crowns

Crowns marketed as “permanent” are not necessarily such. The typical crown lasts 10-15 years, according to statistics. The lifespan of a crown is determined by the patient’s bite, nutrition, and oral hygiene.

A crown can have repeated deterioration at the margins or fracture, especially if it is porcelain bonded to metal and the porcelain chips off. Occasionally, these problems are merely aesthetic, and retreatment is entirely optional. In some cases, the old crown will need to be removed and replaced after the rot has been eliminated.

Having a Root Canal Done

It is absolutely necessary for a posterior tooth to obtain a crown after root canal therapy. A posterior tooth that has undergone a root canal but has not yet received a crown is six times more likely to fracture. 

This is because a tooth that has gone through a root canal is more fragile. It is essentially hollow as the decay has been removed, revealing the inside of the tooth where the nerves and jawbone may be.

When teeth that have had root canals break, they are typically irreversible. This implies that extraction is the sole option. If you’ve had a root canal to relieve pain and save a tooth, the process is not done until the crown is cemented. 

The coronal seal has been the most critical predictor of a successful root canal. A good root canal with a terrible crown on top will fail more frequently than a bad root canal with a great crown on top.

Conclusion

The dental crown is a valuable and effective tool that a dentist can use to fix several dental problems. Crowns are beneficial for patients who have teeth that have been broken, chipped, diseased, decayed, or that are simply smaller than average.

Are you looking for a cosmetic dentist in Lexington? Lexington Smile Studio offers various dentistry services, including cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implants, laser dentistry, etc. Book an appointment today!

Everything to Know About Teeth Whitening After Braces

After wearing braces for long, teeth can lose their natural color because the brackets that are adhered to your teeth protect the enamel from exposure to your food and drink. 

Some patients prefer not to wait to have their teeth professionally whitened after braces are removed, and there are many ways you can do so. 

Here are some ways you can whiten your teeth after braces.

1) Home Tray Bleaching 

Bleaching trays are simple to use. The manufacturer will send you bleaching gel in a small box. You simply place your teeth in the tray, then place a thin layer of the bleach onto the bleaching tray.

Leave the bleach on your teeth for the recommended length of time, then remove the tray and rinse off your teeth with water.

The results aren’t as visible as professional teeth whitening, but it is an effective way to brighten your teeth.

2) Over-the-Counter Products 

There are many stains that can be removed from your teeth, even the stubborn ones from coffee, tea, and wine.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products work by using a bleaching ingredient like hydrogen peroxide that acts as a solvent and penetrates tooth enamel.

Most over-the-counter products are safe and effective. Since they’re non-prescription, most insurance companies won’t cover the cost unless you need a refill.

3) Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is the most effective way to get a bright smile. Most professional teeth whitening methods use a gel that is applied directly to your teeth.

Teeth typically get whiter in just one session, but some patients need two sessions for optimal results.

4) Mouthwash

For those who want immediate results, several drops of mouthwash can lighten teeth immediately after application. Simply swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for 60 seconds, then spit it out.

These products aren’t as effective as professional whitening, as they don’t contain bleach as an active ingredient, but they can give your teeth a slightly whiter appearance.

What Causes Teeth Stains

A tooth stain is caused when a sticky substance, such as food or beverage, is left on the teeth for too long. It can also be caused by tobacco or the use of chewing tobacco.

The more your teeth are exposed to the stain, the darker they can become. This can happen very quickly, as most stains can spread to the entire tooth in just one day.

Why Get Your Teeth Whitened?

Teeth whitening can give your teeth a much brighter appearance, which can make you look healthier, younger, and more confident. Getting your teeth whitened is an affordable and effective way of improving your smile.

Let your friends and family see how much you’ve changed, and they’ll be impressed by your new confidence. Teeth whitening can also boost your self-esteem and help you live a healthier lifestyle.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Teeth whitening is a very simple process. A whitening gel that contains hydrogen peroxide is applied to your teeth.

The peroxide effectively removes stains from teeth by oxidizing the natural elements in teeth that cause the stains. The gel is applied to the teeth and left there for a few minutes so that it can do its job.

Conclusion

There are many ways you can whiten your teeth at home, and they’re easy to use. Get your teeth professionally cleaned by Lexington Smile Studios. We are the best cosmetic dentist in Lexington that will help you bring back your pearly white smile. Get in touch with us today to learn more.

Dental Care 101: Ways to Prevent Coffee Stains

It might be heartbreaking for all the coffee lovers out there to learn that coffee stains teeth. Despite the fact that it is acidic and contains tannins, many individuals adore coffee and include this in their daily routine. Because of its acidity, coffee erodes enamel and yellows teeth. Excessive coffee consumption is harmful to one’s health and teeth.

Many people also wonder how much coffee it really takes to get coffee stains. Two cups of coffee, without a break, will surely darken your teeth. Meanwhile, in other cases, people drink around four coffees a day. One can only imagine the coffee stains on the teeth, especially without proper dental care. After all, some liquids (like coffee) induce tooth surface erosion.

Read on to learn more about coffee stains and how to prevent this from happening to your teeth!

Care Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Stain-Free

These steps will help you avoid coffee stains on your teeth.

1. Make Use of a Straw

When drinking coffee using a straw, the coffee does not come into touch with the teeth. As a coffee lover, invest in a reusable straw that you can use on a daily basis.

2. Do a Mouth Rinse after Drinking Coffee

If coffee keeps you from keeping your teeth clean and bright, make sure to always rinse with water. This prevents the coffee’s acid from staining and corroding your enamels. 

3. Grab Your Toothbrush

Coffee stains can be avoided by brushing twice daily. Beyond that, you also keep other food particles from causing dental issues in your mouth.

4. Floss Regularly

To lessen the discoloration of teeth caused by retained food particles. Floss once a day to keep your teeth from discoloring.

5. Skip the Sugar and Cream

Increased sugar and cream in coffee cause plaque and enamel degradation. The fact that the coffee is lighter is a huge issue.

6. Don’t Miss Your Dental Appointments

Going to your dentist regularly is ideal for preventing and addressing existing oral hygiene issues; as a result, they should be seen twice a year. Your professional dentist will also suggest the tooth-friendly products you need. They are always there to help with dental difficulties.

7. Try a Sonicare Toothbrush

The toothbrush protects your teeth. Dentists prescribe these toothbrushes to remove stains and strengthen gums. Sonicare brushes are non-shedding and very easy to use.

8. Remember the Mouthwash

After brushing and flossing, mouthwash is another essential. Those who have discoloration issues should use whitening mouthwash.

9. Purchase Over-The-Counter Whiteners

Over-the-counter tooth whitening products can be beneficial. It is gentle on sensitive teeth but effective on discoloration.

Conclusion

While everybody loves white teeth, some people may love coffee more. The good news is that we can have the best of both worlds, and it’s fairly simple to achieve! From using a reusable straw to rinsing your mouth and keeping up with your dental routine, keeping your teeth white and gleaming doesn’t have to be so complicated.

Simply keep these care tips in mind to avoid those pesky coffee stains! Remember, your smile is your best accessory; meanwhile, coffee may be the best remedy.

Are you looking for teeth whitening in Lexington, MA? Lexington Smile Studio is here to give you the best dental care that you deserve. Call us today and learn more about our services!

Enhance Your Self-Esteem with Cosmetic Dentistry

Maintaining a beautiful smile and strong teeth are important, more than just their aesthetic benefits. Your oral health is affected by the attractiveness of your smile. Additionally, your self-esteem and how the rest of the world perceives you will also be influenced. It’s because a person’s smile is often the first thing that others notice about them.

In this article, we are going to discuss the different dental procedures to help you enhance your self-esteem through your smile.

1. Crown

This is the most frequently used dental procedure. It is placed over the top of a tooth to restore its original strength and appearance.

The crown of the tooth is designed and built by your dentist. Then, a mold is taken from the tooth. It is carefully dipped out, and then the tooth is sculpted for a perfect fit. The dentist will bond the crown to the healthy tooth to strengthen it and make it function as it should. 

Additionally, the crown of your tooth is designed to match the color of your teeth and its shape exactly. When you smile with a crown, the first thing that others notice is a beautiful, new smile.

2. Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are thin laminates bonded to the front of a tooth to give you a smile worthy of the envy of your friends and co-workers. They are a cosmetic procedure and are very popular among patients that don’t like the color of their own teeth. Veneers are also a good solution for patients that want to repair their teeth close to perfection.

Also, veneers are either made of dental porcelain or zirconium oxide. Veneers are made with a mold taken from your tooth and then ground down to the desired shape. They are then cemented to the front of your tooth so that your teeth will be the right color, size, and shape.

3. Bonding

Bonding is a procedure in which a resin and filler are applied to your teeth to make them appear smaller, whiter, or to fix chips. Your dentist will take a mold of the tooth and then shape the resin to match the original tooth. Then, it is cured with a special light for the final touches.

In addition, bonding can also be used to change the shape of your teeth or to fix the enamel layer of your teeth. The bonding procedure is permanent, so be sure that you like the regeneration results.

4. Teeth Whitening

This cosmetic dental procedure will give you a beautiful, bright smile. It is quickly performed in your dentist’s office, so it doesn’t take several visits. During your session, your dentist will clean your teeth and then apply a special gel. This gel contains a product that will gently bleach your teeth, making them look whiter.

Furthermore, teeth whitening gels and treatments come in various strengths so that your teeth can look just the way you want them to.

5. Dentures

Dentures are becoming more popular as people age. They can be made from different materials. Your dentist can create a denture that is custom-made for your mouth.

Moreover, the process of making a denture is lengthy, and the denture itself can be uncomfortable for some during the first few days. If you are missing several teeth and have the money to spend, dentures are a good alternative to implants.

Conclusion

A beautiful smile can have a substantial positive impact on your life. It can lead to more job opportunities, better social interactions, and higher self-esteem. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy to enhance your smile takes a little effort and commitment.

Consult a cosmetic dentist to achieve that confident smile. Here at Lexington Smile Studio, we provide a comprehensive range of dental services for your entire family. Among the dental services we offer are cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Contact us for a consultation today!

What You Need to Know about Dental Bridges vs Dentures

Have you lost a few of your teeth but have not been able to get dentures or dental bridges? You may have been thinking about visiting your dentist to discuss the best tooth replacement options for you, such as dental bridges or partial dentures. A dental bridge could be an ideal solution for you. 

This article will discuss essential things you need to know about dental bridges and dentures. This should give you a good idea of which option is a better fit for you. 

Here’s what you need to know:

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges fill the space where a few teeth are missing. They can be fixed or removable. As the name suggests, they fill the gap left by missing teeth by connecting the two teeth next to the missing teeth. The crowns of the two teeth are connected to create a bridge, which helps you close your mouth correctly.

There are three basic types of dental bridges:

Traditional Metal Dental Bridges

Traditional metal teeth bridges use metal teeth or a combination of metal and porcelain to fill a space.

Because metal is strong and sturdy, it is the most widely used material to make attachments or anchor teeth to your existing teeth. These bridges can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on their construction, how well you look after them, and the amount of daily wear they receive.

Cantilever Dental Bridges

Cantilever bridges are also used to fill the space where a few teeth are missing. They are built similarly to metal dental bridges, using crowns to connect the two teeth. In this case, however, the teeth are not side by side. Instead, the two teeth are separated a little bit on either side.

In the case of cantilever dental bridges, the anchor teeth are called the pontics, and the teeth that the pontics are connected to are called the abutments. In this case, the abutments are the two front teeth on either side of the gap.

Maryland Bonded Bridges

Maryland bonded bridges are usually used to replace a gap containing three or more teeth. These bridges are the least common type and the most expensive. They use a combination of metal and porcelain to fill the space.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable teeth replacements. Dentures are designed to follow the shape and size of your natural teeth. A denture will have a metal framework called clasps that secure it to your gums and hold the dentures in place.

When you wear dentures, you will be able to chew and eat your favorite foods, but you may still need help when cutting and grinding your food.

Dentures are made using dental implants, which can be placed into your jawbone by your dentist. If your mouth is missing all of your teeth, dentures may be an option. However, if you have a few teeth missing and a dental bridge could be used, it is worth exploring this option since dental bridges are more natural.

Key Differences between Dental Bridges and Dentures

Because dental bridges and dentures serve the same purpose—to replace missing teeth—they are often compared. But because they are made to do two different goals, they are often used for different situations.

A denture is a removable and false replacement for your teeth. It is not fixed, and you can take it out of your mouth and put it back in whenever you want. Dentures can be used if you have all or most of your teeth but would like something permanent that is easy and less expensive.

A dental bridge is a false tooth replacement fixed in place and secured to your dental structure by a dental crown. A dental bridge is generally used when more than one tooth is missing, as it helps to fill the gap.

The Bottom Line

Dental bridges are used to fill the space created by missing teeth. They can last for about 15 years if taken care of properly. Dentures are removable false teeth that are used to replace missing teeth. They can be used if you have lost all your teeth and need something permanent.

Both options offer a solution to missing teeth, but as stated above, not all solutions are ideal for everyone. If you are thinking of getting a dental bridge, you need to consider your dental health history and lifestyle. The same goes for when you are thinking of getting dentures.

If you are looking for a reliable cosmetic dentist in Lexington, we’re here to help. Lexington Smile Studio was established in 1991. To this day, it sets the standards for exceptional care. We provide a full range of dental services for your entire family. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Contact us today to learn and get started.

Laser Periodontal Therapy as a Good Treatment for Gum Disease

One of the most uncomfortable experiences that a person may encounter would have to be the occurrence of gum disease. This is a condition that can affect a person’s teeth and sometimes their gums.

To be more specific, the inflammation of the gum that causes the disease may start from the thumb-sized pocket of the gum and will slowly but surely destroy the gums, which will, in turn, lead to the destruction of the teeth as well.

This disease can be easily acquired by a person who has had a long time of smoking or chewing tobacco. Another cause of the disease is due to the fact that a person has weak resistance due to their overall health and lifestyle. In addition, if a parent or a sibling of the person afflicted with the disease has suffered the same condition, then it is most likely that that person will also develop the disease.

Laser Periodontal Therapy: A Viable Solution for the Problem

Usually, gum disease is treated with a simple cleaning. However, if the gum disease is caused by periodontitis, then more than simple cleaning is required. A more extreme therapy is necessary for this type of gum disease. This is where laser treatment comes in. Laser periodontal is considered the most effective form of treatment for gum disease. This form of treatment usually lasts just for one hour.

The patient is usually asked to wear a mouthpiece. The laser will then be used to remove the infected tissue in the gum. After this has been done, the gum will be sutured with silk, and the patient will be allowed to go home.

The laser treatment may not be the most effective form of treatment, but it is the most efficient when it comes to the overall results. If you are suffering from gum disease, or if you have a family member who suffers from the same condition, then you should seriously consider laser periodontal therapy to be the best way to treat it.

To Be More Specific, What Are the Common Causes of Periodontal Disease?

There are several factors that may lead to the occurrence of periodontal disease. However, there are some that are more common than the rest.

The ones that are usually associated with the occurrence of periodontal disease are to be found in the patient’s overall health. These factors include diabetes and obesity.

In addition, other conditions that can lead to periodontal disease are poor oral hygiene and poor nutrition. Add in smoking and chewing tobacco as two other factors that may lead to this disease.

Another reason for the occurrence of periodontal disease is the immune system. In cases where an individual has a weak one, they are very likely to get an offset of it.

Is Laser Periodontal Therapy Safe?

Yes, it is. This is due to the fact that lasers are considered to be harmless. They are also painless and will not cause any side effects. In fact, this is one of the best methods of treatment for gum disease.

In addition, laser periodontal therapy is fast and very effective. This means that the patient can expect to be able to start healing in no time.

However, before you decide to get a laser treatment, make sure that you go to a reputable laser periodontist. Another good idea is to check the reviews of the periodontist that you want to see.

Conclusion

If you suffer from gum disease and you are looking for the best solution to this problem, then you should seriously consider laser periodontal therapy as the best way to treat it. Not only is this procedure fast and effective, but it is also painless and very safe.

It is also a very good idea to go to a reputable periodontist to get your treatment done. That way, you can be sure that your investment towards a cure for your gum disease is worth all your expenses by the end.

If you are looking to get laser gum surgery in Lexington, MA, look no further than our expertise here at Lexington Smile Studio. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Call us today to book your very first gum treatment session with us.

Effective Tips for Looking After Your Dental Implants

Dental implants are proven to help people with a beautiful smile feel more confident about themselves and thus more successful. To get the full benefits of your implant, though, you must practice proper dental implant care, so check out this guide.

Effective Tips for Looking After Your Dental Implants

1 – Avoid Abrasive Products

When you are cleaning your teeth, use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Avoid toothpastes with whitening agents, as these could damage your dental fixtures. Also, avoid using abrasive products such as mouthwash, floss, and toothpicks, as these can damage your dental health by scratching your teeth.

2 – Avoid Biting Hard or Crunchy Foods

It is very tempting to sink your teeth into an apple or crunch on some crackers. However, these types of foods are not good for your dental health, and they can damage your dental fixtures. Be gentle with your teeth, and do not bite on crunchy or hard foods.

3 – Avoid Too-Hard Chewing

If you bite into a big chunk of meat or some other hard food item, you can damage your dental implants. While they are exceptionally durable and do not break easily, they are not indestructible. Do not bite too hard on hard foods, and chew carefully on meat.

4 – Avoid Using Tobacco Products

People who smoke or chew tobacco products have a higher risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and other dental health problems. Oral cancer is a common side-effect of using tobacco. If you have dental implants, you should avoid using tobacco products. The smoke and toxins can damage your implants and possibly even lead to a loss of the fixture.

5 – Avoid Ingesting Hot or Very Cold Foods

Hot or cold foods can damage your dental implants. Consuming too hot or too cold foods can injure the tissue around your implant. You should not consume very hot drinks, and you should avoid drinking beverages that are both hot and cold. Also, you should avoid eating foods that are too hot or too cold. Keep these to moderate temperatures.

6 – Visit Your Dentist Regularly

To keep your dental implants in the best possible condition, you should visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Your dentist will examine your implant and make sure that it is in the best possible shape. You should also visit your dentist if you notice any redness, pain, or irritation when you are chewing.

7 – Follow a Good Dental Hygiene Strategy

Besides taking care of your implant, you should follow a good dental hygiene strategy to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Brush your teeth twice each day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use dental floss every day to scrub your teeth. Taking care of your implants is not too complicated because you can treat them like normal teeth.

Conclusion

Replacing one or more missing teeth with dental implants can give your smile a boost. Having a full set of teeth will help you look and feel more confident, and it can even help you to be more successful in your career. To get the maximum benefit from your implant, though, you must practice proper dental implant care. Consult your dentist if you want more information on dental implant care.

If you are looking for a dentist in Lexington, come to Lexington Smile Studio. Lexington Smile Studio sets the standards for exceptional care where we provide a full range of dental services for your entire family. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry.