Litchfield Dental Dental Blog

FAQs – In-Office Teeth Whitening in Litchfield MN

White teeth are associated with beauty, increased confidence, and a healthy lifestyle. However, smoking and chewing tobacco, drinking black tea or coffee and wine, using medications such as tetracycline, swallowing too much fluoride, and aging can cause your teeth to become stained.

Teeth whitening or bleaching involves the use of simple and non-invasive treatments designed to change the color of your natural tooth enamel to give you a dazzling smile. Having white teeth is the leading aesthetic concern for most dental patients. Fortunately, there are multiple ways – including home and in-office – to whiten teeth, with varying degrees of effectiveness. 

Reasons to Consider Teeth Whitening 

Some of the reasons why people consider teeth whitening include:

  • To improve their smile
  • To increase their confidence
  • To prevent discoloration from worsening

Teeth whitening can be used to stop the progression of tooth discoloration, especially in combination with lifestyle adjustments

Since improving your smile is an investment, the last thing you want to see are signs of discoloration on your pearly whites coming up only a few months after treatment. To maintain your newly achieved bright smile, you should:

  • Avoid stain-causing foods and drinks – Many colored foods and drinks can stain your white teeth. So, reduce or avoid your intake of tomatoes, berries, grape juice, red wine, coffee, tea, sports drinks, cola, and grape juice. 
  • Rinse your mouth with water after eating and drinking – Every time you indulge in items that can stain your mouth, it is important that you rinse your mouth with clean water right after. Swishing a little water after eating or drinking can help reduce staining. 
  • Stop smoking – Smoking is not only bad for your health, but also your teeth. The nicotine, tar, and tobacco in cigarettes, cigars, and pipes will stain your teeth.
  • Practice proper oral hygiene – Daily brushing, at least every morning after breakfast and at night before bed, and daily flossing will help remove food debris and plaque, and keep your mouth clean and stain-free.  

Final Note 

Tooth bleaching only works for natural teeth, and the results don’t last forever. Artificial dental treatments, including crowns, fillings, and veneers are resistant to stains, which means that these won’t respond to the whitening agents. Moreover, you need a touch-up every year or sooner – as advised by your dentist –  depending on your diet and lifestyle to maintain your bright smile

Please schedule your consultation today to discuss ways to improve your smile.

Top Rated Dentist in Litchfield MN

Whether you’re a busy parent with little time, or just not a fan of the dental chair, finding a dentist near you is important for your oral health. Luckily, with the rise in mobile technology and online services like Google, it’s easier than ever to find a dentist who meets your needs. Whether you’re looking for a general dentist near you or need help finding an affordable dentist near your work, please read further on and consider our office. 

Are you looking for a new dentist? 

If so, it’s important to research the practice before making an appointment. Ask for recommendations from friends, family members, and coworkers. It’s also a good idea to check out online reviews from past patients. By doing this, you can get a better sense of what the practice is like and whether or not you would feel comfortable there.

Whom you choose as your new dentist should depend on a few different factors, including location, availability, and personal preference. 

Keep in mind that not all dentists are created equal: some have more experience, while others have more up-to-date technology. When looking for a new dentist, don’t be afraid to ask questions! You’re likely to find one who is excited to talk with you and eager to help you achieve your dental goals.

We make every effort to ensure that all of our patients are treated as well as possible. Proven by our track record, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. Our team of dental professionals is highly experienced and will give you the best care possible.

Top Rated Dentist Near Me

You can rest assured that selecting a top-rated dentist like us will put your mind at ease. We invite you to call or email us for more information about our dental services and to schedule an appointment to find out how our services can help you.

Are You Looking for a Dentist Near Me?

Contact our office today to schedule your appointment!

Professional In-Office Teeth Whitening in Litchfield MN

Proper brushing and flossing every day can help to keep your smile bright and breath fresh. Factors such as aging, consuming colored foods and drinks, and lifestyle habits such as chewing or smoking tobacco products can cause your teeth to discolor and get darker. 

Fortunately, there are several options for teeth whitening to help improve the shade of your teeth and maintain the shade with follow up treatments as recommended by the dentist. Before treatment, the dentist will examine your teeth to establish the cause and severity of the discoloration, and then propose various whitening options that will be most suitable for your case to ensure that you get the desired results and the smile of your teeth. The results may fade with time depending on your diet, age, and lifestyle choices, so subsequent treatments may be necessary to maintain a white smile. 

Good Candidates for Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is most effective on surface stains, and while anyone from the age of 10 years and above can be a good candidate for bleaching, there are a few cases when your dentist may prevent you from proceeding with the treatment. These include: 

  • Tooth and gum sensitivity – Sensitivities may disqualify you from using certain whitening techniques 
  • The natural color of your teeth – Intrinsic stains are harder to bleach compared to extrinsic stains
  • The presence of crowns, fillings, bridges, or veneers – These do not bleach the same as natural teeth, which means that you may have to replace them after whitening your teeth to achieve a uniform look 
  • Exposed roots – These surfaces are harder to whiten effectively compared to tooth enamel, which means that you may have to consider alternative methods. 

Your dentist will assess your teeth and mouth during your first visit to determine your suitability. 

Final Note 

Teeth whitening is not permanent, and people who expose their teeth to tobacco products and colored foods and beverages that cause staining may realize faster fading of the results. The more you exercise proper oral hygiene after bleaching, the longer you will stay without requiring touch-up whitening treatment. 

Please contact your dentist to discuss ways to improve your smile with teeth whitening.

Dental Veneers Specialist in Litchfield MN

Dental veneers are generally considered a cosmetic procedure because they help to improve your smile by giving you beautifully shaped and aligned teeth. However, the dental materials used are as hard and tough as natural tooth enamel, which makes the repair durable and long-lasting. Moreover, the treatment involves only minimal removal of tooth enamel compared to dental crowns, which helps to maintain the structure and strength of the tooth. 

Here are the basic steps to getting dental veneers:

Step 1: Dental consultation 

Before veneer placement, you will consult your dentist to discuss the best veneer material for your case, and the number of veneers that should be placed depending on the condition of your teeth and budget. In some situations, it may be necessary to undergo other treatments before getting veneers, like using braces to correct uneven or crooked teeth. The dentist will take X-rays to evaluate the health of your teeth. This step is necessary to identify signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other tooth defects that may need to be addressed before getting veneers. 

Step 2: Tooth preparation

On your next appointment, the dentist trims down about 0.5 mm from your tooth enamel using a grinding tool before taking impressions (mold) of the teeth. 

Step 3: Veneer Bonding 

When the permanent veneers are ready, you will schedule another appointment to get them placed. The dentist examines the shape, fit, and shade of the veneers to ensure that it matches your other teeth and bite. Before placement, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned to prevent any bacteria from getting trapped underneath the veneer, putting you at risk of decay. Next, a grinding tool is used to create a rough texture on the front surface of the tooth where the veneer will be applied so it sticks better. The permanent veneer is then placed using dental cement and hardened using ultraviolet light. 

Taking good care of your teeth will help to maximize the longevity of your treatment. Please consult your dentist on the best ways to exercise good oral hygiene and dental care. 

Dental Veneers Treatment Near Me – Contact Us Today! 

Are you interested in dental veneers? Contact our office today and schedule your appointment to discuss treatment options.

Dental Crowns FAQs – Litchfield MN

A dental crown, also known as a tooth cap, is used to strengthen a tooth’s structure, return its normal size, shape, and function, and/or improve its appearance. A tooth crowned fully covers the visible part of the tooth above the gum line, resulting in a new outer surface. 

Common Applications of Dental Crowns 

A dental crown is a permanent tooth repair option that can be used to restore different kinds of dental damage, including:

  • Missing tooth – can be used to support bridgework or paired with a dental implant 
  • Large cavity that would otherwise require a large filling 
  • Weakened tooth due to excess wear or cracks – to support and protect the remaining structure 
  • Decayed tooth – can be used to strengthen a tooth restored with root canal therapy 
  • Poorly shaped or severely discolored tooth – to conceal the imperfection and improve your smile 

Tooth Colored Dental Crowns 

A dental crown, also known as a tooth cap, is used to strengthen a tooth’s structure, return its normal size, shape, and function, and/or improve its appearance. A tooth crowned fully covers the visible part of the tooth above the gum line, resulting in a new outer surface. 

The most natural tooth appearance can be achieved with tooth-colored crowns, which blend in with your natural teeth to make the repair unnoticeable, resulting in an even, white smile. 

To learn more about dental crowns and whether they’re right for you, please schedule a visit with our office.

Dental Treatment Near Me, Litchfield MN

When was the last time you received dental treatment? Typically, you go when you need to, maybe you get a cleaning a couple times a year, and otherwise things are good. Until you have to find a new dentist. Finding the right one can be an overwhelming experience: there are so many different practices and dentists out there that it can be hard to know where to start looking. In this blog post, we’ll give you some tips on what to look for in a new dentist and how to find the best one for you.

What to look for in a new dentist

Are you looking for a new dentist? If so, it’s important to research the practice before making an appointment. Ask for recommendations from friends, family members, and coworkers. It’s also a good idea to check out online reviews from past patients. By doing this, you can get a better sense of what the practice is like and whether or not you would feel comfortable there.

Whom you choose as your new dentist should depend on a few different factors, including location, availability, and personal preference. Keep in mind that not all dentists are created equal: some have more experience, while others have more up-to-date technology. When looking for a new dentist, don’t be afraid to ask questions! You’re likely to find one who is excited to talk with you and eager to help you achieve your dental goals.

Dental problems are a major concern for many adults. While there are a number of easy ways to prevent dental issues, sometimes they will occur despite your best efforts. That’s when it’s time to contact a dental professional.

Dental health maintenance is important not only for you, but also for your child and your spouse. You can improve your chances of having healthy teeth and gums, and preventing infections. By making routine dental visits, you can also save money on dental-care costs in the future.

Are You Looking for a Dentist Near Me?

Contact our office today to schedule your appointment!

Teeth Whitening Treatment in Litchfield MN

An estimated 80 percent of adults want a better smile, which most people relate with having whiter and brighter teeth. As a result, teeth whitening has become very popular in recent years. Bleaching or teeth whitening involves lightening the shade of your natural teeth and removing stains and discoloration. Whitening can greatly improve the appearance of your teeth and smile.

Why Do Teeth Get Discolored?

The color of your natural teeth is created when light is reflected and scattered off the outer layer of the tooth (known as enamel), combined with the color of the underneath tooth layer (dentin). The thickness and smoothness of tooth enamel is unique to every person as it depends on your genes. Thinner enamel means that more of the dentin color will show through. Additionally, smoother or rougher enamel affects how light is reflected, and therefore, the tooth color.

Every day, a thin film (pellicle) forms on the surface of the enamel, which makes it easy for stains to stick to the tooth. Enamel also contains tiny pores that can hold stains if you don’t clean your teeth properly. 

Some of the reasons for teeth discoloration include:

  • Age – tooth enamel is naturally white, but it thins over time due to normal wear, allowing the yellowish dentin to show 
  • Fluorosis – teeth darkening due to excessive fluoride consumption 
  • Food and drink – tea, coffee, red wine, and other food items contain intense color pigments known as chromogens that bond to tooth enamel, causing discoloration 
  • Tobacco use – chewing and smoking tobacco exposes you to two chemicals responsible for creating stubborn stains: nicotine and tar
  • Illness – early tooth decay or illness during tooth development can also cause spots on your teeth 
  • Medications – tooth discoloration can be a side effect of taking certain medication, like antihistamines and antipsychotics. Fetuses and babies may also be at risk of tooth discoloration of the adult teeth if exposed to antibiotics like doxycycline and tetracycline. 
  • Calculus – accumulated plaque can also reduce the sparkle of your teeth 

Anyone Can Enjoy a Whiter Smile

If you desire a brighter smile, you should discuss with a dentist near you about your suitability for teeth whitening to reduce staining and discoloration. This will help to improve your appearance and make you less self-conscious so you can smile more. Schedule your appointment today. 

What to Expect With Dental Veneers in Litchfield MN

Dental veneers provide a great way to conceal crooked, discolored, chipped, or worn front teeth. The ultra-thin shells of tooth-colored material can also be used to fix uneven gaps or large spaces between your front teeth that affect your smile, giving you an even and bright smile. 

There are a few things to keep in mind before getting your veneers:

  • To qualify for veneers, your teeth and gums must be healthy and free from any signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or severe defects, such as malocclusion. That said, you may qualify for veneers if these problems are addressed first. 
  • Porcelain veneers are applied by grinding down about 0.5 mm from your tooth enamel using a grinding tool before taking impressions (mold) of the teeth. Alternatively, no-prep veneers such as composite-resin or Lumineers (0.3 mm thick) can be bonded directly to thin teeth without any preparation. 
  • Porcelain veneers are made from a mold in a process which varies in time of completion; please contact our office for more details. 
  • Once the permanent veneers have been applied, the function of your mouth is fully restored, meaning that you can eat and chew normally. It may take a few days to get used to the repaired teeth, but any rough spots – due to the cement – should wear down within a week. You can also ask your dentist to smooth them out. 
  • Traditional porcelain veneers last for many years. Taking good care of your teeth will help to maximize the longevity of your treatment. This includes not biting on hard objects (ice, fingernails, pens, or bottle/package opening), not chewing with the front/repaired teeth, getting treatment for teeth clenching or grinding, and wearing a mouthguard when participating in sports activities.

Final note 

Before veneer placement, you will consult your dentist to discuss the best options for your case, and the number of veneers that should be placed depending on the condition of your teeth and budget. In some situations, it may be necessary to undergo other treatments before getting veneers, like using braces to correct uneven or crooked teeth. 

Dental Veneers Treatment Near Me – Contact Us Today! 

Are you interested in dental veneers? Contact our office today and schedule your appointment to discuss treatment options.

Dental Crown Specialist Near Me in Litchfield MN

A dental crown or tooth cap can be used to fix chipped, cracked, or broken teeth. Fillings may be used to repair minor tooth damage in some instances. Crowns are preferable to fillings unless the damage is minor and limited to the front teeth. Fillings are less expensive than crowns, but they are not as strong unless the damage is minimal. Otherwise, crowns are preferred. 

Crowns can be successfully used to treat various dental problems, including:

  • Decay – that has affected more than half the tooth, such that a filling cannot be used 
  • To strengthen the tooth structure following root canal therapy 
  • Broken or fractured teeth 
  • To replace large fillings 
  • To fix chips and cracks 
  • To close small gaps between teeth 
  • To support dental bridges when replacing missing teeth 

What’s the Process For A Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are one of the most popular dental restoration procedures for people of all ages, as most people are good candidates for them. Cosmetic improvements to damaged teeth can also be accomplished using tooth caps. 

During your initial consultation, the dentist will examine your teeth to determine if you are a good candidate for dental crowns. The treatments starts by numbing the damaged tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Then, depending on the type of damage, any decay will be removed and the site thoroughly cleaned and disinfected in preparation for placing the filling material in the cavity. The dentist will also take digital impressions that will be used to create your custom crown, making sure to match the color of your crown to that of your teeth, or use a different shade if you wish to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile. 

Contact Your Dentist Today 

Please contact your dentist today to learn more about dental crowns and other dental restorative options that can work for you.

Dental Veneers Near Me, Litchfield MN

A dental veneer refers to an ultra-thin layer of tooth-colored material that is bonded over the facial surface of your front teeth to correct minor, aesthetic dental issues such as uneven tooth spacing or alignment, worn tooth enamel, chipped or broken teeth, cracks, and tooth discoloration. 

Dental Veneers – Your First Appointment 

Before veneer placement, you will consult your dentist to discuss the best options for your case, and the number of veneers that should be placed depending on the condition of your teeth and budget. In some situations, it may be necessary to undergo other treatments before getting veneers, like using braces to correct uneven or crooked teeth. 

The dentist will take X-rays to evaluate the health of your teeth. This step is necessary to identify signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other tooth defects that may need to be addressed before getting veneers. Otherwise, you’d not be a good candidate for veneers. 

Starting the procedure – Taking Impressions

The dentists / and or team will will take impressions to measure the right fit of your dental veneers. When the permanent porcelain veneers are ready, you are ready to get them placed. The dentist examines the shape, fit, and shade of the veneers to ensure that it matches your other teeth and bite. Before placement, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned to prevent any bacteria from getting trapped underneath the veneer, putting you at risk of decay. 

Next, a grinding tool is used to create a rough texture on the front surface of the tooth where the veneer will be applied so it sticks better. The permanent veneer is then placed using dental cement and hardened using ultraviolet light. 

Dental Veneers Treatment Near Me – Contact Us Today! 

Are you interested in dental veneers? Contact our office today and schedule your appointment to discuss treatment options. 

Litchfield Dental Dental Offer

6 Month Smiles

Six Month Smiles is a short term orthodontic treatment that involves wearing clear braces to straighten and improve tooth alignment. This alternative treatment is a convenient approach to a straighter smile without the time commitment.

Learn more