Apr 24, 2025 | Blog, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Topics 3
In today’s world, having a fantastic smile can impact your personal and professional successes. People notice right away the warmth and vitality your smile can convey. Unfortunately, most individuals don’t naturally have a perfect set of teeth. With orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign, you can attain a uniform, attractive appearance.
Often, patients inquire about “instant orthodontics,” a term that describes the cosmetic application of porcelain veneers to create the illusion of a straight smile. Designed to mimic the translucency of enamel, porcelain veneers can transform a worn-out smile into a sensational, new image. Because veneers are a cosmetic procedure, the term “instant orthodontics” is actually misleading.
Porcelain veneers can correct the appearance of front teeth and make your smile look amazing. If you have alignment issues, crowding, or bite problems, porcelain veneers will only cover the imperfections without addressing the root problem.
It’s important to consider the long-term goals and implications of choosing a cosmetic procedure. Veneers are a great way to deal with slight flaws in your smile, including chips, small gaps, and discolorations. However, you need orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign clear aligners to correct the position of your teeth.
Invisalign can not only enhance your appearance, but also improve your oral health since straighter teeth are easier to clean and floss. You should schedule a consultation with the dental team at Brown, Reynolds & Snow, who can evaluate your teeth and bite before making recommendations about the most effective treatment for your desired results.
Are dental issues holding you back? Take control of your oral health by booking an appointment with our experienced team at our Bingham Farms dental office.
Apr 17, 2025 | Blog, Dental Topics 3, Implant Dentistry
If you have lost one or more teeth due to decay, disease or damage, you may be wondering what your options are for restoration. While there are several choices available to replace missing teeth, dental implants are considered the most innovative and advanced treatment option offered in dentistry today. A dental implant is a fabricated tooth root placed in the jawbone to secure a replacement tooth or bridge. With vigilant oral care, dental implants are highly successful and can last for a lifetime.
Dental implants are known to most closely act like your natural teeth. Their feel, function and appearance resemble that of a natural tooth. Unlike dentures, dental implants do not require special glues or adhesives. Implants are cared for exactly like your natural teeth, only requiring you to brush and floss normally and maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Another benefit of dental implants is their ability to preserve your natural facial structure by preventing and slowing the bone resorption caused by tooth loss. Traditional dentures do not offer this advantage.
Patients who choose traditional dentures to replace missing teeth may also find they have trouble eating or speaking due to ill-fitting or slipping appliances. Because they function like natural teeth, with dental implants you will enjoy all your favorite foods and never have to worry about your dental appliance shifting or clicking.
Consult with your dentist to find out more about how dental implants can provide you with a lifelong solution to your missing teeth. Your dentist will assess your specific needs and determine if you are a good candidate for implants, so you can get back to enjoying life with a full set of healthy teeth.
Take the first step towards optimal oral hygiene. Reserve your dental appointment at our Bingham Farms dental office now and experience personalized care.
Apr 3, 2025 | Blog, Dental Information, Dental Topics 3
Modern dentistry allows people to keep their teeth healthy and strong. In fact, dentistry has evolved from folk practices to a medical discipline that follows scientific findings. Some common misconceptions still exist, including:
Myth: If I can’t see a problem with my teeth, they are fine, so I don’t need to visit the dentist.
Truth: Regular checkups are important even if you can’t see anything wrong. Sometimes, problems like decay and gum disease don’t present any signs until the condition progresses. Visiting the dentist for a routine exam twice a year allows the doctor to more effectively monitor your oral health.
Myth: Toothbrushes with hard bristles do a better job cleaning teeth.
Truth: Actually, most dentists recommend soft-bristled brushes because the hard bristles can remove tooth enamel, which makes your teeth more sensitive to hot and cold.
Myth: Root canal procedures cause pain.
Truth: When a tooth is severely damaged by trauma or deep decay, the soft nerve center called the pulp dies and pressure builds inside the tooth. Any discomfort you feel comes from the inflammation and infection. Most people actually feel better after a root canal, a procedure where the doctor removes the damaged tissue and seals the tooth to prevent further problems.
Myth: Teeth whitening will harm my teeth.
Truth: Both in-office and take-home teeth whitening options have evolved over the years. With a dentist’s supervision, you can safely and effectively brighten your smile.
Myth: Chewing sugar-free gum means I don’t have to brush my teeth.
Truth: Although sugar-free gum after meals may freshen breath and reduce plaque build up, you can’t use it as a substitute for brushing twice a day. Only regular brushing and flossing can get rid of the plaque already on teeth and remove food particles from between teeth.
Schedule a dental cleaning appointment today at our Bingham Farms dentists office.
Mar 27, 2025 | Blog, Dental Information, Dental Topics 3
Every hour, one American loses the battle with oral cancer. In fact, oral cancer kills more people than liver, cervical, or testicular cancer. Recently, Michael Douglas shined a spotlight on this illness by revealing his own battle with the disease, after a malignant tumor was discovered at the base of his tongue, near the back of his throat.
Although men have as greater risk of developing oral cancer than women, and tobacco use increases your odds, 25 percent of oral cancer victims have no lifestyle risk factors.
You can follow these tips to keep your mouth healthy:
• Visit the dentist regularly. Your provider is trained to know what is normal and what isn’t. During your routine exam, the doctor will evaluate your teeth and gums, looking for anything out of the ordinary. At Brown, Reynolds & Snow Dentistry, we also offer ViziLite Plus cancer screening. ViziLite Plus uses technology that helps the dentist identify soft tissue abnormalities that may develop into cancer.
• Watch for unusual signs. Common symptoms of oral cancer include unusual bumps or thickenings, unexplained bleeding in the mouth, hoarseness, and voice changes. Contact your dentist right away if you develop any of these symptoms.
• Cut out tobacco and alcohol. Smokers have six times the risk of developing oral cancer as non-smokers. As well, heavy drinking increases your chances of receiving an oral cancer diagnosis.
• Perform a self-exam. Early detection substantially improves your odds of survival with oral cancer, so examine your lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and the roof of your mouth at least once a month.
• Limit sun exposure. When you do go outside, apply sunscreen to your lips for added protection against harmful UV rays.
It’s time for your dental check up at our Bingham Farms dental office.
Mar 13, 2025 | Blog, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Topics 3
Though most people take their kids to the pediatrician or visit a dermatologist when they have skin issues, few people look for a cosmetic dentist to perform smile enhancements. Many individuals assume their family dentist can complete the updates they desire. If you want to change your dental appearance, you should consider the benefits of selecting a cosmetic dentist.
A cosmetic dentist can offer the following advantages:
Advanced Training
If a dentist specializes in cosmetic dentistry, he or she will likely have taken post-graduate classes that focus on this area. Because cosmetic dentistry continues to change and evolve, choosing a cosmetic dentist will help you find a practitioner who is up-to-date on the latest advances.
Specialized Expertise
It may seem like anyone can place a filling or crown, but that isn’t always the case. When you need repair work on a front tooth or on any tooth visible when you smile, going with a cosmetic dentist can ensure that you keep your gorgeous appearance intact.
Artistic Vision
For individuals looking to completely makeover their smiles, a cosmetic dentist has the experience and creativity to produce amazing results. A good cosmetic dentist will meet with you to discuss your ideas, show you examples of other smile makeovers, and then customize a detailed plan for your smile transformation.
Are dental issues holding you back? Take control of your oral health by booking an appointment with our experienced team at our Bingham Farms dental office.
Feb 6, 2025 | Blog, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Topics 3
There are many types of cosmetic dental procedures, from teeth whitening to porcelain veneers. While some procedures like veneers require little to no advance preparation, some procedures require more forethought. Make the most of your visit by making the right preparations.
All cosmetic dental procedures should begin with a discussion with your dentist. Your dentist is skilled and experienced. Your dentist best knows your teeth and your dental needs and can give you the advice you need. Some common cosmetic dental procedures and how to prepare for them are explained below.
Teeth whitening: Cleaning your teeth before a tooth whitening treatment will help you achieve better results. If you clean the plaque and tartar off of the tooth surface, the whitening will affect the entire surface of the tooth. Be sure to look at a shade guide before your procedure to establish your existing tooth color and to choose your goal shade. Teeth whitening is not recommended for expectant or nursing mothers, as the effects of the whitening chemicals on unborn children or infants has not been explored.
Oral surgery: Many cosmetic dentistry procedures involve some type of oral surgery. To prepare for your surgery, follow all of the instructions of your surgeon. Make transportation arrangements, as you may not be able to drive. Get your medication in advance, so you will be prepared to take your pain medication or antibiotics immediately following your procedure instead of having to wait and possibly endure pain. Follow all of your pre-op instructions, including any diet restrictions. Plan your recovery diet beforehand, so you will have a variety of healthy, appropriate foods available to you.
Braces: Before braces are applied to your teeth, you will need a full check-up to look for decay or problems with your gums. After application or adjustment, your mouth may be sore. Treat this with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. Because braces may chafe initially against your teeth and gums, have some specialized wax available to place over the bracket to help shield your mouth until your tongue and cheeks adjust.
Ready to transform your smile? Schedule your appointment today at our Bingham Farms dental office.
