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When the smile has been affected by tooth loss, most patients want to restore the smile’s beautiful appearance as quickly as possible. Working with an implant dentist to get implant supported dentures can help you to achieve this goal. Implant supported dentures can be placed in a single appointment in some cases, and patients gain numerous benefits from this treatment approach. Patients who are exploring their tooth replacement options for an entire upper or lower arch of teeth (or both) should consider dental implants. Eliminate The Wait With Implant Supported Dentures Each case is different, but many prospective patients for implant supported dentures can get those appliances in a single appointment lasting just a few hours. As few as four dental implants can be placed in the jaw to secure a denture. Because relatively few dental implants are needed for some implant supported dentures, those dental implants can be placed all at the same time. The patient often also can be fitted with the appliance after those dental implants are in place. Your implant dentist can advise you of the most suitable treatment plan for you after evaluating your case. This will help to give you a more concrete idea of what to expect as you prepare to get implant supported dentures. Implant Dentures Outperform Conventional Dentures In addition to the concise treatment timeframe, implant supported dentures offer a number of other benefits to patients in comparison to conventional dentures. Because the dental implants function like artificial tooth roots, implant supported dentures have: Longer lifespan of the appliance More effective chewing capacity Less mess and inconvenience to maintain More lifelike fit and appearance The dental implants allow implant supported dentures to look, feel and function more like your biological teeth and they also preserve the integrity of the underlying jawbone and prevent the atrophy that typically is a consequence of tooth loss. Are you interested in learning more about implant supported dentures and all that they have to offer? Call our office to schedule a no-obligation consultation.
Whenever you are out in public, your teeth are on display. Whether conversing with family, friends, or business colleagues; enjoying a meal out; or exchanging smiles with total strangers, your teeth are a prominent feature that get noticed. So you want them to look their absolute best. If you’ve ever wondered what you could do to improve the appearance of your teeth, a consultation with our cosmetic dentist will identify and outline the enhancements that could help you upgrade your smile. Cosmetic Solutions to Enhance Your Smile Teeth Whitening: Possibly the most often performed cosmetic enhancement, the option of brightening your smile multiple shades in the privacy of your home is readily available. Acquiring teeth whitening from your dentist, a licensed dental professional, allows you to benefit from the most powerful teeth whitening agents available in a take home kit. Your dentist will provide you with a customized tray, teeth whitening solution, and complete instructions that will allow you to improve your smile in the time frame of your choosing. Tooth Colored Restorations: For years, the only solution for dental decay came in the form of dental amalgam, a silver restoration that is noticeable when you smile. Thankfully, we now enjoy the benefit of tooth-colored enhancements that are available to treat dental decay; old silver fillings can be removed and replaced with tooth-colored material. Chipped teeth can also be repaired using a composite that is strong; and through the talent of your cosmetic dentist, these updates are virtually undetectable. Porcelain Veneers: For patients looking to change the appearance of one or multiple teeth, porcelain veneers are very thin shells that can be applied to the front of teeth improving stained, misshapen, or poorly spaced teeth in just a few dental visits. Veneers are a permanent option as a minimal amount of enamel is removed from teeth to be treated so the finished product will provide a symmetrical smile. How Do I Get Started? If you are interested in a smile makeover, the first step is to schedule a consultation with our cosmetic dentist. A treatment plan will outline the program best suited for you. For more information or to reserve your appointment, contact the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan today.
Having a thorough teeth cleaning and dental exam at least twice each year are good guidelines to follow. However, there are individuals who may require treatment more often; following the advice of your dentist is your best option for determining the number of dental visits needed to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. What Occurs During My Dental Visit? With each cleaning appointment, your dental hygienist or dentist will remove the tartar that has been building on your teeth since your last visit. Dental instruments are used to scale away this build-up, or ultrasonic tools may be used to remove calculus. Whichever option is used, this cleaning is necessary as merely brushing and flossing at home is not going to completely eliminate the tartar that forms on teeth especially around the gum line. You will benefit from the dental x-rays performed. Bitewings are taken on back teeth that will detect any decay. The entire mouth is x-rayed at lesser intervals. These x-rays allow for the appropriate monitoring to see any changes that have occurred as well as watching for any new problems that may have begun. Finally, teeth are flossed and polished so they will look their best. The Dental Exam This is an important of your dental visit. While it may only take a few minutes, this one act could actually save your life! What is your dentist looking for? Dental decay; failing crowns; the onset of gum disease or gum recession; and most importantly, signs of oral cancer. Anyone can experience lesions, and all might not be cancerous. But during this check-up, your dentist is looking for anything suspicious. Visits to the dentist should begin around the age of twelve months and continue twice a year for the rest of your life. Once those baby teeth fall out, the teeth that come in as children are the only other ones we get and are expected to serve us well for a lifetime. Given the proper care, it is possible to keep teeth and gums healthy. Follow a regimen of brushing twice daily with a fluoridated toothpaste, floss every day, and make sure you visit our dentist as recommended for teeth cleaning and the dental exam.
Dental implants have become a very commonplace dental solution for tooth loss. Of course, saving a biological tooth whenever possible is ideal, but when one or more teeth succumb to trauma, infection, or decay, it is good to know there is a solution that is as close to your biological teeth as possible. A visit with your implant dentist will reveal the process and qualify you for the procedure that will allow you to eat all your favorite foods, speak clearly, and smile with self-confidence. Things to Consider Before Receiving a Dental Implant While this has become a procedure performed widely, the patient bears some responsibility to make it a success. Questions addressing overall health coupled with a very thorough dental exam will be required to make sure there is adequate jawbone to support a dental implant. If needed, a procedure to augment bone may be required prior to implant placement. Your dentist will explain the importance of keeping the implant area clean to prevent infection, a leading cause of implant failure. Placing A Dental Implant The implant itself is a small titanium device that is surgically embedded in gum tissue where a tooth is missing. Titanium is the metal of choice for its unique qualities promoting bone to graft and encompass the implant to provide a solid support structure for the restoration that will eventually cover it. On the day the implant is placed, plan to return home to rest for the balance of the day. This is oral surgery; you will benefit from inactivity for a day or two. A healing period ensues during which time bone is grafting to the implant (referred to as osseointegration). You will have several dental visits to make sure healing is on track. It is important to keep all scheduled checkup appointments. Once healed, the cosmetic restoration can be cemented into place. Your dentist will attach an abutment to the implant, and try in the restoration for fit, function, and appearance. Once all is correct, the restoration will be cemented into place. Your dental implant process is complete … you are free to enjoy your favorite foods and resume life as if tooth loss never occurred. To learn more about your tooth replacement options, contact the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan today.
A visit to the dentist has revealed the need for one or more dental crowns. What you will learn is that crowns usually require two office visits and several steps. Reasons A Dental Crown May Be Needed Your dentist will always try to save a biological tooth whenever possible. Placing a dental crown does exactly that; they are the ideal treatment option for: A Fractured Tooth: Although teeth are very strong, a fracture can occur from biting down on something hard. Extensive Decay: When placing a filling on a deep cavity risks the integrity of the tooth, your dentist may opt for a crown. In some cases, a partial crown (an inlay or onlay) may be all that is required. Sealing the Opening Following Endodontic Therapy: Endodontic therapy (root canal) is a measure taken when the nerve of a tooth has been damaged. An access point is required to reach the tooth’s root canals; the final step for this procedure is to seal that access point often using a dental crown. Abutments for a Fixed Prosthesis: If tooth loss should occur, a fixed partial or bridge is a treatment option that requires crowning the healthy teeth that surround missing teeth. The pontics (or false teeth) will be made to match neighboring teeth and coupled with the crowns, the patient will have a permanent solution for tooth loss. The Steps for Placing a Dental Crown Depending on the location of the tooth, the type of material to be used for the crown will be discussed. If the tooth is in the smile line, a tooth-colored material like porcelain is desirable. The dentist will anesthetize the area. The tooth is milled down removing a major portion of the tooth leaving enough in place to attach the crown. An impression is taken that will be sent to the dental lab for crown fabrication. A temporary crown is placed on the prepared tooth; it will be left in place until the permanent crown is back. On seat day, the temporary is removed and the new crown is tried in. Your dentist has the capability to make adjustments at this time. When the fit and appearance are correct, the crown is polished and cemented into place. You will likely be advised to avoid biting hard or sticky foods for a day or two. For more information about dental crowns or to schedule a consultation, contact our team today.
Many patients take their teeth for granted and expect them to function properly. However, those who have experienced tooth loss understand just how precious natural teeth are, which should make teeth cleaning a high priority as part of a daily regimen of care. Basic Teeth Cleaning Tips Brushing: For many, little thought is given to the brushing technique required to maintain a beautiful smile. But there are proper tools to use as well as a correct way to brush your teeth. A soft bristle toothbrush is strongly recommended by your dentist … coupled with a fluoridated toothpaste or gel. These are the basic tools you need to use daily. Employ a circular motion and even hand; excessive pressure is not required. Brushing too hard can actually damage the outer surface of your teeth as well as contribute to premature gum erosion. Brush twice a day for two minutes each time. A timer can be used or brush to your favorite song. Or use an electric toothbrush. This can accomplish a couple things. Most come with a timer signaling when you’ve brushed for two minutes; and their rapid action does most of the work for you – you just provide the guidance. Flossing: This is very important. Your toothbrush only reaches about two thirds of the surfaces of your teeth. We rely on floss to remove food debris your toothbrush could not reach. Done properly, flossing helps keep gum tissue healthy and aids in preventing tartar from building on teeth. Daily Diet, Hydration, and Lifestyle What we eat and drink can contribute to oral health. Foods loaded with sugar and carbohydrates should be closely monitored. Drink water and water-based beverages like unsweetened coffee and tea (fruit infused water is a refreshing beverage). Soda consumption is very hard on your oral health; it should be considered a special occasion beverage, if consumed at all. Tobacco use stains dentition and is damaging to both overall and oral health. Finally, make sure you visit the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan every six months for teeth cleaning and a dental exam. We rely on our teeth for so much; their proper care and daily attention will contribute to a beautiful and healthy smile.
Dentures are very beneficial for patients who have experienced tooth loss. A conversation with your dentist will outline all the advantages dentures have to offer such as allowing the patient to chew with ease and speak clearly, to smiling with renewed self-confidence. Whether dealing with the loss of a few teeth or having to replace an entire arch, dentures offer a realistic solution to tooth loss that is affordable and with a treatment plan that can be completed in a short amount of time. What Exactly Is A Denture? Dentures are a prosthetic device made to replace teeth that have been lost due to infection, trauma, or decay (or in some cases for patients whose teeth never developed properly). There are different types of dentures (removable or fixed); and complete or partial (depending on the number of teeth missing). There are a myriad of things to consider when discussing dentures; a frank discussion with your dentist will allow for the patient to receive exactly what they desire. Removable partial dentures are suitable for patients who are missing some of their teeth. For patients wishing for a more permanent solution, they can opt for a fixed partial where abutment teeth are crowned adding pontics where teeth are missing. A complete denture is required when an entire arch of teeth must be replaced. Caring for Dentures Just as you care for your biological teeth, your dentures require daily attention as well. Plaque and tartar can form on dentures – this can impact oral health so daily cleaning is strongly advised. Your dentist will demonstrate the correct way to properly clean fixed dentures. Removable prosthetics can be cleaned using products designed specifically for dentures. A soft bristle brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser are usually adequate to keep dentures clean. Just as with anything new, you can anticipate a brief adjustment period once your dentures are in place. But the rewards are plentiful … chewing comfortably, speaking clearly, and smiling with self-confidence are advantages afforded to denture wearers.
There are a multitude of products on the market today that promise to whiten your teeth. However, in many cases, the products you acquire at the drug store or online bring disappointing results. There is an option available to you that has many more advantages than pastes, rinses, or one size fits all generic teeth whitening products; a visit with our cosmetic dentist will reveal a take-home whitening kit that will get the job done the first time providing excellent results. Things to Look for In Take-Home Teeth Whitening Products The strength to achieve optimal results … your cosmetic dentist has the credentials and licensing to offer you the most powerful teeth whitening products available. Additionally, they have been tested for your safety. Teeth whitening products purchased elsewhere can’t match the quality and provide the fabulous results you can expect from take-home teeth whitening obtained from your dental provider. Customized just for you … your dentist may recommend you have your teeth cleaned prior to beginning teeth whitening. The accompanying dental exam will provide an opportunity for your dentist to make sure you get the most out of your teeth whitening experience. Custom fitted trays will be made specifically for you – you will not have to settle for the one size fits all universal model. Professional advice … if you have any questions or concerns, your cosmetic dentist is available to address them. If you run into a problem or have a question after purchasing a generic product, you either have to guess at the answer or hope you can rely on information found on the internet. Teeth Whitening Products Are Not All Created Equal The goal, of course, is to achieve the whitest and brightest smile you can. And while you may experience a little improvement using some products, why not maximize your investment and just do it right the first time? Pastes, gels, rinses, blue lights, and even charcoal based products all promise to improve your smile. But if you’re going to invest the time and effort, shouldn’t it be with the best products available that will give you that finishing touch you desire? Take-home teeth whitening obtained through your cosmetic dentist will give you optimum results lightening your teeth shade and brightening your smile far better than any other product available on the market today. Contact the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan today to schedule your consultation.
Brushing twice daily is considered sufficient to clean the surfaces of your teeth, but brushing alone only reaches about two thirds of the surfaces of your teeth. Your dentist encourages you to floss daily as flossing reaches that other third of your dentition. Decay and gum disease often begin due to food debris left behind forming harmful tartar – something that might have been prevented with daily flossing. Advantages of Flossing Teeth Daily If you are only flossing once a day (which is considered adequate), it is best to do so as part of your bedtime regimen. That way you are able to remove anything that has become stuck between teeth throughout the day before it has a chance to harden into harmful tartar. When you floss you will be able to see what your toothbrush couldn’t reach. If you do not floss, you are creating an opportunity for what your toothbrush missed to stay on your teeth. Eventually turning to tartar, you are providing an avenue for the onset of gum disease and the formation of dental decay. Flossing takes about one to two minutes daily. There are a variety of products available making it easy to find one that is ideally suited to your needs. There is a right way to floss. Gently move floss between all teeth making sure to touch all surfaces between teeth. Use your floss to gently massage gum tissue. This will help keep gums invigorated. What Can I Expect If I Don’t Floss? Once harmful plaque turns to tartar on your teeth, some of the things you might experience include: Bad breath – Tartar on teeth harbors bacteria possibly resulting in halitosis. Bleeding gums – This is a possible early sign of gum disease or if you floss incorrectly, you may make your gums bleed unintentionally. Dental stain – Brushing and flossing daily helps keep teeth looking their best. What should come first … flossing or brushing? It is believed by many that flossing should come first removing food particles from between teeth. Rinse your mouth thoroughly before brushing to flush away anything flossing did dislodge. When brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste, a quick rinse is sufficient and won’t negate some of the advantages of brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste or gel. Finally, make sure to visit our dentist every six months for a cleaning and dental exam.
A fad is described as an intense and widely shared enthusiasm for something; especially one that is short lived … there are several of these crazes in the dental world right now. But before trying any of these, it is best to consult with your family dentist to make sure you are not doing more harm than good. The Latest Novelties Include: Oil Pulling: Before the creation of toothpastes we use today, people would swish a tablespoon of oil around their mouth in an effort to clean their teeth. The fad today often involves the use of coconut or sesame oil in an effort to whiten teeth and freshen breath. Charcoal Toothpaste: You wouldn’t chew on a chunk of charcoal from your backyard grill, but there are toothpastes available today that contain charcoal. And while there is some evidence that these products can whiten teeth initially, longer term use can lead to diminished enamel. We rely on enamel to protect our teeth from decay; once it is gone, it will not grow back. Also, experimenting with rinses made with lemon juice, vinegar, or carbonated soda is an invitation to disaster. These are very acidic and can promote further loss of enamel. Fluoride-free Toothpaste: There is a reason why fluoride was added to the water supplies of cities throughout America. It is imperative that we use fluoridated products to continue to fortify the protective enamel on the teeth of children and adults alike. Grills and Jewelry: Usually a fad for young people, placing metal in your mouth (unless you are undergoing teeth straightening) is a bad idea. While some think it looks attractive, the destruction that could be going on underneath the jewelry does not seem worth it. Good Dental Habits You Can Live With Your family dentistry office is staffed with caring individuals who work tirelessly to make sure you enjoy all the benefits of great oral health. But you need to do your part. Brush your teeth twice daily using a fluoridated toothpaste, two minutes each time. Floss every day to remove anything that has formed on teeth especially around the gum line. Rinse thoroughly following flossing. And finally, make sure all family members visit the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan every six months for teeth cleaning and dental exams.
Our Response To Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Although the Governor has rescinded the mask mandate, as a Dental Office we are subject to protocols of the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE). The TSBDE has not lifted its COVID 19 emergency protocols, so masks are still to be worn by patients and staff in the dental practice. We will be continuing all of our COVID safety protocols and respectfully request all patients, staff and vendors wear a mask in our office. Thank you for helping us keep the safest environment possible for our patients and staff.
Please contact our office if you have any concerns.