FAQ

How often you need x-rays depends on your oral health. A healthy adult who has not had cavities or other problems for a couple of years probably won't need x-rays at every appointment. If your dental situation is less stable and your dentist is monitoring your progress, you may require more frequent x-rays.

If you are unsure why a particular x-ray is being taken, ask your dentist. Remember that dental x-rays deliver very little radiation; they are a vital tool for your dentist to ensure that small problems don't develop into bigger ones.

If you are missing any teeth, dental implants can help restore both your natural function and aesthetics. Make sure to book an appointment with your dentist right away to discuss your options.

Dental x-rays have come a long way and with the current technology in digital x-rays, patients are exposed to up to 70% less radiation than regular x-rays, hence they are increasingly safer. Your dentist's decision to take x-rays always considers the risks and is patient specific.

Early detection of oral cancer can improve a patient's chances of successful treatment. That's why many dentists recommend having regular oral cancer screenings that examine the entire mouth. Adults over the age of 20 should have a screening every three years while those over 40 should have annual screenings.

Your teeth stain over time due to the colourants in the food and drinks you consume. To keep teeth whiter for longer, avoid drinks that stain enamel such as coffee, tea and red wine. Smoking also causes stains on teeth so you need to avoid smoking as well. Brushing your teeth regularly and chewing on water dense fruits and vegetables also helps keep the stains away.

This information allows Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla to identify the type and severity of certain underlying medical conditions. Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla may also determine possible adverse drug interactions and potential problems from the use of non-prescription drugs, such as an increased bleeding time with the use of Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) or some herbal supplements.

Some of the early signs that your teeth and gums are unhealthy are soreness and pain in the gums, bleeding gums, tooth sensitivity, bad breath or dry mouth. It's best to see Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla as soon as possible if you experience anything similar.

If you are prone to anxiety when visiting Roots on Whyte Dental, it's better to avoid caffeine, however you can drink a cup of decaffeinated coffee.

It is very important to choose a dentist that you feel comfortable with and who can relate and talk to you about your concerns. Some things to consider are:

• Is it easy to schedule an appointment and do they work with your schedule too?
• Is the office conveniently located?
• Is the office clean and neat?
• Are you comfortable and relaxed in the dental office?
• Is the dentist willing to engage with you and answer your questions?

Ask questions. It sounds simple enough, but sometimes we feel embarrassed to ask simple questions. There is no need to feel that way.

You will feel much better, and be able to make a better decision, if you understand the dental procedure that is recommended to you. If you don't say anything, your dentist may think that you already understand.

Here are some tips when asking questions. Ask:

1. If you can see any pictures of the procedure or what it looks like when it is done;
2. How much it will cost;
3. How long it will take;
4. If it will need to be redone in the future;
5. If there are alternatives to the procedure and if so, what are the pros and cons of each option.

The final decision about how and when to proceed with any treatment is yours. To help you understand what is involved in the treatment, your dentist may give you some printed material to read.

If you have already left the dental office without asking questions, call us back later. Be careful about getting information from unknown sources (some of this information from the internet may not be reliable).

Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla have been doing what's called "non-vital" bleaching for many years. Non-vital bleaching is done on a damaged, darkened tooth that has had root canal treatment. "Vital" bleaching is done on healthy teeth and has become more popular in recent years.

Vital bleaching, also called whitening, may be carried out in the dental office or the dentist may instruct the patient on how to do the bleaching at home. There is also a wide variety of products for sale in stores. Not all products are the same and not all give you the same results.

Different products, including those used by Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla, may also have different risks and side effects.

Here is an overview:

Whitening toothpastes with abrasive ingredients are really not bleaching products at all, but work on surface stain only. These products are sold in many stores.

Some whitening toothpastes do contain a chemical ingredient (or "bleach") that causes a chemical reaction to lighten teeth. Generally, they have the lowest amount of "bleach." They may not whiten as well as stronger products, but they have less chance of side effects. These pastes are brushed onto teeth and rinsed off, like regular toothpaste.

Bleaching kits sold in stores stay on your teeth longer than toothpaste and contain stronger bleach." These store-bought products do not come with the added safety of having your dentist monitor any side effects. They also come with a one-size-fits-all tray that holds the "bleach" and is more likely to leak the chemical into your mouth.

Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla may use products with stronger "bleach", but they give patients careful instructions to follow. They are also trained to spot and treat the side effects that patients sometimes report during bleaching. In addition, if a tray is needed to apply the "bleach", dentists supply custom-made trays. Because products used by dentists are strong, they tend to produce the best results.

Patients should be aware that the long-term use of whitening or bleaching products may cause tooth sensitivity or tooth abrasion. Please consult with Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla before using a whitening or bleaching product.

How often you go for a dental exams depends on your oral health needs. The goal is to catch small problems early. For many people, this means a dental exam every six months.

Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla may suggest that you visit more or less often depending on how well you care for your teeth and gums, problems you have that need to be checked or treated, how fast tartar builds up on your teeth, and so on.

Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do I floss every day?
2. Do I brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and follow my dentist's instructions on how to brush properly?
3. Do I eat a well-balanced diet, including food from all food groups, and limit sweets and sticky foods?
4. Do I smoke?
5. Do I have a history of cavities or gum disease?
6. Is my overall health good?

The answers to these questions are all factors that affect your oral health. They will help you and Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla to decide how often you need to visit for dental exams. It's worth noting that you should not determine your need for dental care on what your dental plan covers.

When you visit Roots on Whyte Dental, it's Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla's role to make a treatment plan based on your oral health needs. Your needs may be different from what is covered by your dental plan. It is your right to decide whether or not to go ahead with any treatment.

You should not decide based on what your plan covers. If you agree to have the treatment, it's your responsibility to pay for it. It is the responsibility of the benefits carrier's to reimburse you for the amount covered by your dental plan.

We at Roots on Whyte Dental, are willing to contact your benefits carrier, to find out if a treatment is covered. You have to pay the portion that's not covered.

I don't have dental insurance and can't afford to go to the dentist.

If you do not have a dental plan and cannot afford to pay your entire bill at once, ask the staff at Roots on Whyte Dental about a payment plan. If you cannot afford care, even with a payment plan, contact the nearest:

1. Social services agency to see if you qualify for government-funded dental care;
2. Dental school where senior dental students provide treatment at a reduced cost.

Dental services may seem expensive. In Canada, we don't have to pay directly when we visit a doctor or hospital, so we may not realize the high cost of providing health services. Overhead costs are high for dentists. They have staff, equipment and other operating costs.

The good news is that you can avoid costly dental treatment by brushing, flossing and visiting Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla regularly for a dental exams. Regular dental exams cost money, but they are less expensive than fixing serious dental problems that stem from neglect.

It's important to get an early start on dental care, so that your child will learn that visiting Roots on Whyte Dental is a regular part of health care.

The dental association encourages the assessment of infants, by a dentist, within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth or by one year of age.

It's important to make the first visit a positive experience for your child - one reason why it's best to visit before a problem develops. If you think there is a problem, however, take your child to see Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla right away, no matter what age.

If you are a nervous dental patient, ask your spouse or another family member to take the child for the appointment. If your child senses that you are nervous, he or she may feel nervous too. When you talk to your child about going to the dentist, explain what will happen without adding things like "it won't hurt" or "don't be scared."

Be sure to get an early start on regular dental care at home. Start cleaning your child's mouth with a soft damp cloth before teeth come in and continue with a soft toothbrush once he or she has a first tooth. Limit the number of sugary treats you give your child, and focus on healthy food choices from the very beginning.

For us at Roots on Whyte Dental, your health is very important. Our dental professionals helps you stay healthy by preventing the spread of germs. One of the best ways to do this is to use barrier protection such as gloves and masks.

We sterilize equipment used in the dental office and clean the furniture and fixtures in the examining rooms after every patient. This system is referred to as standard precautions, every patient is treated in the same way.

If you would like to know how the sterilization is carried out at Roots on Whyte Dental, ask us to show you how it's done. We welcome the opportunity to ease your concerns, rather than have you leave the office with unanswered questions. Once you see the work that goes into making the dental office a clean and safe environment, you will feel reassured.

Tell Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla of changes in your health. This will help Dr. William Yoo, Dr. Terence Clark & Dr. Ruby Aujla to suggest the right choices of treatment for you.

As a patient, you have the right to get copies of any or all of your dental records. If you and/or your authorized representative requests a copy of your complete file from your dentist (chart records, x-ray images, referral slips, study models, photographs, correspondence), this information can be provided.

Original dental records belong to the dental office who provided the treatment, and not the patient, because the dentists have to keep all of their records for a period of time, as set out by their provincial dental regulatory body. You can request that a copy of your records be transferred from your previous dentist.

You may be required to sign a release form from your former dental office and you may also be charged an administrative fee for having your records copied and sent to another dental office. If you have questions about the records transfer process (in or out), ask us at Roots on Whyte Dental and we're happy to help.

Aside from its aesthetic benefits, there are several advantages to cosmetic dentistry: overall better dental health, an improved quality of life, better self-esteem, and a variety of choices of procedures to choose from.

Learn more about cosmetic dentistry to see if it's right for you. In addition to whitening, cosmetic dentists use a variety of techniques to produce an even, white smile.

Bonding involves applying tooth-colored resins to your teeth in order to fill in chips or excess spaces and to cover stains.

Veneers are porcelain or composite covers that last longer than bonding and cost less than crowns. They also improve the appearance of chipped, stained, or misshapen teeth and create a perfect smile offering the same contour, shape and color. The dentist will take an impression of your tooth and then have a custom veneer made in a laboratory.

Crowns cover an entire tooth. In addition to cosmetic improvement, crowns are used to restore or protect a broken or weak tooth and in order to stabilize large fillings.

Implants replace the root of a tooth by fusing to the jawbone. Then, the implant will require a crown similar to the natural tooth. This is a surgical procedure which must be done by a specialist.

Inlays/Onlays are indirect fillings made from porcelain or other composite materials used to treat tooth decay or structural damage. They are created in a dental laboratory and then fitted and bonded into the damaged tooth.

Smile makeovers involve one or more cosmetic treatments, such as dental implants, dental veneers, teeth whitening to improve the overall appearance of your mouth.

Full mouth reconstruction is needed to correct functional problems of your teeth, muscles, bite and bone structure.

Yes, our practice carries alternative products and materials with similar benefits. Ask your dentist today about your options!

The level of fluoride found in dental products is considered safe for the general population. However, individuals can be exposed to fluoride through other sources: food, beverages, some medications, and Edmonton’s city water supply.

While fluoride brings local benefits in strengthening teeth and combating tooth decay, repeated exposure to high levels can have negative impacts. As fluoride is repeatedly absorbed into the body, it can lead to health complications such as dental fluorosis, thyroid deficiency, depression, and even increased incidence of bone fractures.

As a result of their multi-piece design, titanium implants offer more versatility. Moreover, they offer solutions in areas of limited space and bone support.

Due to their one piece design, ceramic implants are easier to maintain. Likewise, they can be placed immediately following extraction in one single appointment. Lastly, ceramic implants are both hypoallergenic and biocompatible.

Our practice offers both metal-free ceramic dental implant and conventional titanium implant options. Ultimately, it is your health history and clinical situation that may elect one option in favour of the other.

Whether or not you are a suitable candidate for dental implants can depend on multiple factors. Your dentist will need to take into consideration aspects such as your medical history, any underlying conditions, medications, and even social habits.

Though cosmetic dentistry is generally intended for adults, some treatments can also be applied to children. For more information, book a consultation for your child today!

Yes, we offer a number of procedures such as whitening, microabrasion, tooth reshaping and recontouring, composite veneers, porcelain/ceramic veneers and crowns, dental implants, gum life and rejuvenation, as well as Invisalign.

Cosmetic dentistry refers to any procedure used to enhance the overall aesthetic of your smile. A variety of techniques and procedures fall under this category.

We use Admira Fusion by Voco, which is a ceramic filling material that does not contain BPA or any other classic monomers.

While there are a myriad of materials produced and developed by dental companies, the most important criteria for us when choosing are biocompatibility and longevity. Ceramic fillings are one such innovation that allows our practice to offer patients safer alternatives that are long-lasting.

While some conventional composite resins can contain safe levels of Bisphenol-A (BPA), a compound speculated to have estrogen-mimicking effects, the material used by our practice is BPA-free.

Our practice does use generally-accepted safe mercury amalgam removal procedures. Book a consultation today and our staff will be more than happy to walk you through the process.

We offer injectable ceramic fillings, ceramic inlays or onlays, and ceramic crowns. For any personal concerns, feel free to contact the office for more details on alternative restorative options.

While scientific studies have not verified whether or not mercury amalgam is a known risk factor for illness, there are some areas of concerns. Minute amounts of mercury vapour are released by amalgam fillings over time, which can then be reabsorbed by the body. Overall, Health Canada advises individuals to minimize their daily exposure to mercury as much as possible.

A baby’s first meeting with the dentist can be stressful for both the child and the parent; however, we recommend that all children over the age of one come in for their first dental visit.

Bad breath, known medically as halitosis, is a common affliction for many. In addition to brushing twice daily, flossing, and cleaning any removable appliances (such as dentures), we recommend seeing your hygienist for regular cleanings. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact us for further treatment.

We accept both employer-sponsored and private dental insurance. Likewise, we might be able to set-up a payment plan for any large-scale procedures. For any payment inquiries, feel free to contact us in advance.

If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or continual bleeding, or if you have suffered trauma of any kind to your teeth, please contact us immediately. Such symptoms may be indicative of a dental emergency which should be treated right away.

You should be seeing your dentist every six months. Though you might be feeling alright, we recommend getting a professional cleaning and exam twice a year to ensure the best dental health possible.

Yes, our eco-friendly clinic is accepting new patients! Book an appointment today online or by phone, at 888-396-4932.

Bad breath (halitosis) can be an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. Many of us may not realize that we have bad breath, but everyone has it from time to time, especially in the morning.

There are various reasons one may have bad breath, but in healthy people, the major reason is due to microbial deposits on the tongue, especially the back of the tongue. Some studies have shown that simply brushing the tongue reduced bad breath by as much as 70 percent.

• Morning time – Saliva flow almost stops during sleep and its reduced cleansing action allows bacteria to grow, causing bad breath.
• Certain foods – Garlic, onions, etc. Foods containing odor-causing compounds enter the blood stream; they are transferred to the lungs, where they are exhaled.
• Poor oral hygiene habits – Food particles remaining in the mouth promote bacterial growth.
• Periodontal (gum) disease – Colonies of bacteria and food debris residing under inflamed gums.
• Dental cavities and improperly fitted dental appliances – May also contribute to bad breath.
• Dry mouth (Xerostomia) – May be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous mouth breathing.
• Tobacco products – Dry the mouth, causing bad breath.
• Dieting – Certain chemicals called ketones are released in the breath as the body burns fat.
• Dehydration, hunger, and missed meals – Drinking water and chewing food increases saliva flow and washes bacteria away.
• Certain medical conditions and illnesses – Diabetes, liver and kidney problems, chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia are several conditions that may contribute to bad breath.

Keeping a record of what you eat may help identify the cause of bad breath. Also, review your current medications, recent surgeries, or illnesses with your dentist.

• Practice good oral hygiene – Brush at least twice a day with toothpaste and toothbrush. Floss daily to remove food debris and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gumline. Brush or use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue and reach the back areas. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. If you wear dentures or removable bridges, clean them thoroughly and place them back in your mouth in the morning.
• See your dentist regularly – Get a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. If you have or have had periodontal disease, your dentist will recommend more frequent visits.
• Stop smoking/chewing tobacco – Ask your dentist what they recommend to help break the habit.
• Drink water frequently – Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria.
• Use mouthwash/rinses – Some over-the-counter products only provide a temporary solution to mask unpleasant mouth odor. Ask your dentist about antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate bad breath, but also kill the germs that cause the problem.

In most cases, your dentist can treat the cause of bad breath. If it is determined that your mouth is healthy, but bad breath is persistent, your dentist may refer you to your physician to determine the cause of the odor and an appropriate treatment plan.

Brushing and flossing help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease.

Plaque is a film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks to the teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque convert certain food particles into acids that cause tooth decay. Also, if plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). If plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone, causing periodontal (gum) disease.

Plaque formation and growth is continuous and can only be controlled by regular brushing, flossing, and the use of other dental aids.

Toothbrushing – Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste.

Brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums, gently using a small, circular motion, ensuring that you always feel the bristles on the gums.

Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth.

Use the tip of the brush head to clean the inside front teeth.

Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

Electric toothbrushes are also recommended. They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time.

Flossing – Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.

Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.

Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.

Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.

Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.

Rinsing – It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also after meals if you are unable to brush. If you are using an over-the-counter product for rinsing, it’s a good idea to consult with your dentist or dental hygienist on its appropriateness for you.

You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, though your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend more frequent visits.

Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing dental problems and maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. At these visits, your teeth are cleaned and checked for cavities. Additionally, there are many other things that are checked and monitored to help detect, prevent, and maintain your dental health. These include:

• Medical history review: Knowing the status of any current medical conditions, new medications, and illnesses, gives us insight to your overall health and also your dental health.
• Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
• Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
• Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
• Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
• Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
• Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for sometime and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line, and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
• Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!
• Teeth polishing: Removes stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during toothbrushing and scaling.
• Oral hygiene recommendations: Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed (electric dental toothbrushes, special cleaning aids, rinses, etc.).
• Review dietary habits: Your eating habits play a very important role in your dental health.

As you can see, a good dental exam and cleaning involves quite a lot more than just checking for cavities and polishing your teeth. We are committed to providing you with the best possible care, and to do so will require regular check-ups and cleanings.

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort, it is possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms. Having regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important and will help detect if periodontal problems exist.

Periodontal disease begins when plaque, a sticky, colorless, film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva, is left on the teeth and gums. The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that inflame the gums and slowly destroy the bone. Brushing and flossing regularly and properly will ensure that plaque is not left behind to do its damage.

Other than poor oral hygiene, there are several other factors that may increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:

• Smoking or chewing tobacco – Tobacco users are more likely than nonusers to form plaque and tartar on their teeth.
• Certain tooth or appliance conditions – Bridges that no longer fit properly, crowded teeth, or defective fillings that may trap plaque and bacteria.
• Many medications – Steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure meds, oral contraceptives. Some medications have side affects that reduce saliva, making the mouth dry and plaque easier to adhere to the teeth and gums.
• Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and puberty – Can cause changes in hormone levels, causing gum tissue to become more sensitive to bacteria toxins.
• Systemic diseases – Diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV / AIDS, etc.
• Genetics may play role – Some patients may be predisposed to a more aggressive type of periodontitis. Patients with a family history of tooth loss should pay particular attention to their gums.

• Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen.
• Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
  Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
• New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.
• Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
• Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.
• Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.
• Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Brushing our teeth removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from all tooth surfaces, except in between the teeth. Unfortunately, our toothbrush can’t reach these areas that are highly susceptible to decay and periodontal (gum) disease.

Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.

Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that cause cavities and irritate and inflame the gums. Also, when plaque is not removed above and below the gumline, it hardens and turns into calculus (tartar). This will further irritate and inflame the gums and also slowly destroy the bone. This is the beginning of periodontal disease.

How to floss properly:

• Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
• Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
• Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.

Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.

Daily flossing will help you keep a healthy, beautiful smile for life!

Porcelain veneers are very thin shells of tooth-shaped porcelain that are individually crafted to cover the fronts of teeth. They are very durable and will not stain, making them a very popular solution for those seeking to restore or enhance the beauty of their smile.

Veneers may be used to restore or correct the following dental conditions:

• Severely discolored or stained teeth
• Unwanted or uneven spaces
• Worn or chipped teeth
• Slight tooth crowding
• Misshapen teeth
• Teeth that are too small or large

Getting veneers usually requires two visits. Veneers are created from an impression (mold) of your teeth that is then sent to a professional dental laboratory where each veneer is custom-made (for shape and color) for your individual smile.

With little or no anesthesia, teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the front surface of the teeth to allow for the small thickness of veneers. The veneers are carefully fitted and bonded onto the tooth surface with special bonding cements and occasionally a specialized light may be used to harden and set the bond.

Since teeth whitening has now become the number one aesthetic concern of many patients, there are many products and methods available to achieve a brighter smile.

Professional teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel, and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile. Over-the-counter products are also available, but they are much less effective than professional treatments.

As we age, the outer layer of tooth enamel wears away, eventually revealing a darker or yellow shade. The color of our teeth also comes from the inside of the tooth, which may become darker over time. Smoking, drinking coffee, tea, and wine may also contribute to tooth discoloration, making our teeth yellow and dull. Sometimes, teeth can become discolored from taking certain medications as a child, such as tetracycline. Excessive fluoridation (fluorosis) during tooth development can also cause teeth to become discolored.

It’s important to have your teeth evaluated by your dentist to determine if you’re a good candidate for bleaching. Occasionally, tetracycline and fluorosis stains are difficult to bleach and your dentist may offer other options, such as veneers or crowns to cover up such stains. Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is also important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. before bleaching begins. Once the bleaching is done, your dentist can match the new restorations to the shade of the newly whitened teeth.

Since teeth whitening is not permanent, a touch-up may be needed every several years to keep your smile looking bright.

The most widely used professional teeth whitening systems:

Home teeth whitening systems: At-home products usually come in a gel form that is placed in a custom-fitted mouthguard (tray), created from a mold of your teeth. The trays are worn either twice a day for approximately 30 minutes, or overnight while you sleep. It usually takes several weeks to achieve the desired results depending on the degree of staining and the desired level of whitening.
In office teeth whitening: This treatment is done in the dental office and you will see results immediately. It may require more than one visit, with each visit lasting 30 to 60 minutes. While your gums are protected, a bleaching solution is applied to the teeth. A special light may be used to enhance the action of the agent while the teeth are whitened.

Some patients may experience tooth sensitivity after having their teeth whitened. This sensation is temporary and subsides shortly after you complete the bleaching process, usually within a few days to one week.

Teeth whitening can be very effective and can give you a brighter, whiter, more confident smile!

With many state-of-the-art dental treatments and prevention options available in dentistry today, there are fewer reasons for having to extract (remove) teeth. When something does go wrong with a tooth, we try to do everything possible to restore the tooth to its original function. Removing a tooth is the last option because we know that removal may lead to severe and costly dental and cosmetic problems if the tooth is not replaced.

Losing a tooth can be a very traumatic experience and it’s very unfortunate when it does happen. Injury, accident, fracture, severe dental decay, and gum disease are the major reasons for having to remove a tooth. If teeth are lost due to injury or have to be removed, it is imperative that they be replaced to avoid cosmetic and dental problems in the future.

When a tooth is lost, the jaw bone that helped to support that tooth begins to atrophy, causing the teeth on either side to shift or tip into the open space of the lost tooth. Also, the tooth above or below the open space will start to move towards the open space because there is no opposing tooth to bite on. These movements may create problems such as decay, gum disease, excessive wear on certain teeth, and TMJ (jaw joint) problems. These problems and movements do not result immediately, but will eventually appear, compromising your chewing abilities, the health of your bite, and the beauty of your smile.

Removable bridges – This type of bridge is a good solution for replacing one or more missing teeth, especially in complex dental situations where other replacement options are not possible. They are usually made of tooth-colored, artificial teeth combined with metal clasps that hook onto adjacent natural teeth. Removable bridges are the most economical option for replacing missing teeth, but may be the least aesthetically pleasing. This is because the metal clasps on the appliances are often impossible to completely conceal.

Fixed bridges – This type of bridge is generally made of porcelain or composite material and is anchored (cemented) permanently to a natural teeth adjacent to the missing tooth site. The benefit of this type of bridge is that it is fixed (not removable) and it is very sturdy. The disadvantage is that in order to create a fixed appliance, two healthy, natural teeth will have to be crowned (capped) to hold the bridge in place.

Dentures – This type of tooth replacement is used when most or all of the natural teeth are missing in one dental arch. Dentures are removable artificial teeth that are made to closely resemble the patients’ original teeth.

Implants – Are a great way to replace one or more missing teeth. They may also be great to support ill fitting dentures. A dental implant is an artificial root that is surgically placed into the jaw bone to replace a missing tooth. An artificial tooth is placed on the implant, giving the appearance and feel of a natural tooth. Implants are very stable, durable, and are the most aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement option.

If you are missing teeth, ask us if they need replacement and what options are available to you. Together we will select the best replacement option for your particular case. Prevention and early treatment is always less involved and less costly than delaying treatment and allowing a serious problem to develop.