Friday, August 7, 2015

Factors that Affect the Cost of Cosmetic Dentistry

With more patients seeking to cosmetically improve their smiles, the question becomes, “How much does it cost to get cosmetic dental treatment?” There is typically no one price that comes attached to a cosmetic treatment plan. Each dental patient is different in terms of their oral health and what they’re hoping cosmetic dentistry will be able to help them achieve.

If you’re considering cosmetic treatment to make your smile look bright and healthy, all of the following will factor into the overall cost of your plan for care.

Materials

The goal of any cosmetic treatment is to help your teeth look naturally healthy, which is where selecting the right restorative materials becomes important. Certain prosthetics used in dental cosmetics, such as crowns and bridges, can be made from a base of metal that is coated in tooth-colored porcelain – these are typically the most economical. The most life-like prosthetics, though, are those made from solid porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia, which can be more costly, depending on the size of the restoration.

Pre-Treatments

Setting the stage for best results often includes pre-treatment to ensure longevity of care and proper aesthetic.  For some patients, a cosmetic dentist may recommend periodontal therapies before placing a dental implant or a crown. Some other patients may need a tooth extracted and replaced, or may need natural teeth whitened before a veneer can be placed for good color matching. It’s important to consider any additional care you may need, based on outstanding oral health issues, when thinking about the cost of a cosmetic treatment plan.

Surgical Care

Dental implants are a popular cosmetic and restorative dental treatment, as they are long-lasting, strong, and look just like real teeth. Dental implants are durable because they are implanted through surgical processes into the bone in your jaw, where they naturally integrate.  A cosmetic treatment plan that includes surgical procedures will incur additional costs, especially for any sedation medication used during surgery.

The best way to find out what costs your cosmetic dental plan may include is to speak to the dentists at Dynamic Dental Center. We go over all of your options for care, so you can select the procedures and materials that will give you the smile you want, at a cost that you are comfortable with. If you have questions, please call our Queens, NY cosmetic dentists for a consultation.

Tuesday, July 28, 2015

The Benefits of Invisalign

Before the introduction of Invisalign®, patients seeking orthodontic treatment were restricted to traditional metal braces. While metal braces are effective in helping patients achieve straighter teeth, mature patients may find that they prefer a more discreet treatment. Invisalign® offers an alternative way to fix minor dental gaps and cosmetic issues. When compared to traditional braces, Invisalign® offers significant benefits, including:

Discreet Appearance

Since Invisalign® trays are clear, patients are able to maintain a natural-looking appearance during treatment. This is particularly beneficial for adult patients. Invisalign® is also a popular choice for those who need to correct small orthodontic imperfections; rather than getting full braces for up to 24 months, Invisalign® treatment can take as little as 6 months up to a year and produces great results.

Minimal Adjustment Period

The time it takes to adjustment to Invisalign® is minimal. Patients only need to get accustomed to having a covering on their teeth and the general tightness that accompanies new trays. Without the metal brackets and wires of traditional braces, the aligners are non-irritating on soft tissue.

Easy Maintenance

Unlike traditional braces, keeping your Invisalign® trays clean is simple. As the aligners are removable, you can easily clean them and your teeth after each meal. With the removable trays, patients don’t need to visit the orthodontist for adjustments quite as often. Instead, patients are instructed on when and how to change their trays on their own, based on the desired results.

Considerations before Committing

It is important to note a few things about Invisalign® before committing to the process: The results are patient-driven. If a patient wears the aligners for the recommended 23 hours a day and follows their orthodontist’s direction on changing trays, they will most likely get the results they looking for. Younger patients may have a difficult time remembering to reinsert the aligners after eating or in changing the trays on time. In following Invisalign® treatment, it is recommended to use a permanent retainer to keep your teeth in their new alignment, just as you would with traditional braces.

If you feel that you can benefit from Invisalign®, contact Dynamic Dental Work today. Our Queens, NY dentist can help you achieve the vibrant, straight smile without the inconvenience of traditional braces.

Friday, July 10, 2015

Dental Implants vs. Fixed Bridges: Which Should I Get?

Dental patients with missing teeth now have more options for fixing their smiles than they’ve ever had. Of the more permanent restorations available, there are fixed dental bridges and dental implants. You’ve probably heard these terms mentioned before and understand that, in general, bridges and implants are capable of the same things: closing the gaps in your smile created by tooth loss.

However bridges and dentures are very different in terms of how they’re placed in your smile and the ways they contribute to your overall oral health. If you’ve been researching ways to replace missing teeth, consider what each treatment has to offer, and who is candidate for which restoration:

Dental Bridges

In contrast to removable prosthetics, like dentures, bridges are secured in-place by a bonding agent that allows them to last for years with proper care. The standard bridge is a unit made of three pieces: a fake tooth with a dental crown on each end. But dental bridges can be much longer for patients who need more teeth replaced – as long as nine pieces. Bridges work best for patients who have still have teeth on each side of the gap caused by missing or extracted teeth. If these neighboring teeth exist, they can accept the dental crowns that are located on each end of the fixed bridge. 

Most dental patients with a few missing teeth can benefit from receiving a dental bridge and can have their bridges made to look life-like and natural with porcelain and other tooth-colored materials. Bridges are often an economical choice in effectively restoring your smile.

Dental Implants

Getting an implant involves oral surgery to place a new tooth root into bone in your jaw. Implants are extremely versatile and can be useful for patients who have just one missing tooth, or are missing large groups of teeth. Implants are independent as well, so they don’t need to rest on teeth on either side of a gap in your smile. However, not everyone is a candidate for implant surgery. In order to successfully place an implant, you must have healthy bone quality in your jaw. Without healthy bone density, an implant is more likely to fail and become loose.

Dental implants can also be more costly, as fees for surgery factor into the overall price of the treatment plan. But for patients with large amounts of missing teeth, implants offer the most effective, long-lasting and durable solution.

So, Which Treatment is Right for You?

Only you and your dentist are able to come up with the best solutions to meet your treatment goals. But generally speaking, patients with one or two missing teeth often prefer fixed dental bridges over oral surgery for dental implants. For other patients who are experiencing total tooth loss, the investment in dental implants can offer significant benefits for oral function and overall wellness.

If you have questions about the best ways to replace missing teeth in your smile, call our Queens, NY cosmetic and restorative dental office. We’re proud to offer porcelain dental bridges and implant dentistry to provide you with the care you need.

Friday, June 26, 2015

How are Lumineers® Different than Traditional Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic restoration that gives patients remarkable results in as little as two dental appointments, and without the hassle of multiple, complex procedures.  For patients who are interested in improving the way their smiles look, we offer Lumineers® brand porcelain veneers, which are a bit different than standard porcelain veneers.

To help you better understand what makes Lumineers® different, consider the following:

Pre-Treatment Preparation

Traditional veneers are thicker than the no-prep variety  (Lumineers®). Because of their thickness, regular veneers require the buffing-down of natural dental enamel so that, when applied, the veneer does not make teeth look bulky or unnaturally thick. No-prep veneers are so-called because they require virtually no filing of natural tooth enamel to apply. Lumineers® brand veneers are ultra-thin and therefore do not require teeth preparation as in the traditional fashion.

Ability to Correct Cosmetic Flaws

Both Lumineers® and standard veneers are able to cover flaws and improve the shape and alignment of teeth. However, because traditional veneers are thicker, they are often more efficient at camouflaging severe cases of tooth discoloration that cannot be improved by teeth whitening. These extreme cases of discoloration are rare, which is why Lumineers® works for most people, but it’s important to speak to your cosmetic dentist about any potential tooth discoloration that may not be corrected by no-prep dental veneers.

Durability

With improvements in materials for cosmetic dental restorations, as well as agents used to bond veneers in place, both no-prep and standard veneers are able to last for years with proper care. However, because no-prep veneers are thinner, if you are really hard on your teeth, there’s a higher likelihood of causing damage. The good news is that, because no-prep veneers can be removed and replaced more easily in the event of damage, the process for restoring your veneer is less complicated.

Our no-prep porcelain veneers are perfect for patients who are in the market for veneer therapy, but who are concerned about removing too much of their existing tooth enamel to get the look they want. If you have a question about getting cosmetic dental treatment with porcelain veneers in Queens, contact our office for assistance.

Friday, June 12, 2015

Dental Implants: The Closest Thing to Your Natural Teeth

When most of us think of dentures, visions of ill-fitting devices and sticky adhesive gel come to mind. The good news is that there are now many alternatives to traditional dentures, with an effective option being dental implants.

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to anchor a replacement tooth or bridge. They are strong and stable, and function like normal teeth. Better yet, dental implants are a long-term solution, lasting a lifetime with proper care. There is no lengthy adjustment period like with traditional dentures. You will be able to live your life as you’ve always lived it, full of the foods you enjoy, and without fear of your teeth slipping or falling out at inopportune moments.

Dental implants are a great option if you want a beautiful, natural smile, but don’t want to change your lifestyle. However, there are a few instances when getting dental implants can be a little more complicated.

When is Bone Grafting Required?

Occasionally, you will first need to undergo a bone graft before getting dental implants. This is usually necessary if your jawbone is beginning to atrophy, which is caused by a lack of teeth in the jaw. Chewing, for instance, can exert pressure on your jaw bone. If the bone is not sturdy enough, the dental implant can fail. A bone graft will create a solid, strong base for your implant, giving the procedure a better chance of success. The condition of your jawbone determines how your dentist will proceed and sets the procedure timeline.

While bone grafting may sound scary, it’s really a very common and relatively painless procedure that can be done in your dentist’s office. Getting a bone graft done increases the rate of success for your dental implants, and will ensure your smile and facial features stay in place for the rest of your life.

Questions?

For questions or more information, call Dynamic Dental Work today for a consultation. We will walk you through our treatment options and determine if dental implants are the best option for you. Call us to schedule an appointment today. 

Friday, May 29, 2015

6 Great Ways to Whiten Teeth on Your Own

Now more than ever, people are desiring a whiter smile. With an association with good oral health and positive first impressions, white teeth have been in high demand. Your local dentist can provide you with chairside and take-home whitening procedures, but there are also ways to brighten your smile on your own.


Keep up with regular oral hygiene: A bright smile starts with regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental appointments. Oral hygiene will keep plaque at bay, creating a healthier and whiter smile.

Eat healthy snacks: Instead of chips or candy, try eating fruits and vegetables as a daily snack. The consistency of fruits and vegetables helps scrape bacteria from the surface of teeth, helping to brighten your smile over time.

Cut down on staining drinks: Consuming liquids like coffee or red wine stains the teeth, especially in large quantities. Try cutting down on these drinks or drink them through a straw to point the liquid away from the front-facing teeth.

Use over-the-counter whitening kits: Although they typically only target the “social 6” (or the front 6 viewable teeth) over-the-counter whitening kits are an affordable and fast way to gain whiter teeth.

Don’t smoke: There aren’t many benefits to smoking, and improving your oral health is certainly not one of them. If you want to gain a whiter smile, you should eliminate cigarettes.

Contact Dynamic Dental Work: A professional whitening procedure, whether it’s chairside or at-home, is the best and most effective way to target stained tooth enamel and whiten the smile.

The dental health professionals at Dynamic Dental Work would be happy to schedule an appointment with you and discuss a teeth whitening procedure. Contact our Queens dental office today!

Thursday, May 7, 2015

Welcome to our blog!

We're excited to announce the official launch of our Dynamic Dental Work blog.

We'll be posting helpful dental tips, news from the dental industry, news from our practice, and more about the latest in dentistry.

We built our practice on the notion that we're there for our patients when they need us and we want our online presence to be a reflection of that principle. We hope this blog provides an extra level of service to our current and future patients.

If you would like to stay up to date on the latest from Dynamic Dental Work, simply click the RSS “Subscribe to feed” link located on our website and subscribe. Our subscribers will be updated when we make a new blog post.

Here's to your best oral health ever!