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Tooth Colored Dental Crowns in Litchfield MN
Dental crowns are a fairly common type of tooth repair option that works by encapsulating a damaged tooth to restore its size, shape, and strength, while improving its appearance.
A few years ago, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns were the preferred option because they combine the benefits of both porcelain and metal crowns (strength and aesthetics). However, the metals used to fuse with porcelain have become expensive in recent years, forcing patients to consider alternative materials. Moreover, either of these materials can be used individually to craft crowns of a satisfactory standard.
Types of Metal Crowns
Crowns made from metal are the strongest and most durable option, plus they’re not abrasive to opposing teeth. Different metals can be used to fabricate crowns, including gold, platinum, stainless steel, copper, and alloys like nickel-chromium and cobalt-chromium. Stainless steel crowns are typically used for temporary applications, like for the repair of primary teeth for children or for temporary crowns as adult patients wait for the fabrication of their permanent crown.
Most metal crowns are made from a blend of metals, like gold and the base metal alloys. They are primarily used to repair back teeth because they’re strong and highly resistant, and they’re not visible when smiling, which makes aesthetics less of a concern. But they may not be suitable for people who’re allergic to metals or those with aesthetic concerns.
Tooth-Colored Crowns
Dental crowns that are fabricated entirely from porcelain are referred to as all-porcelain crowns, while those made entirely from ceramic are known as all-ceramic crowns. These tooth-colored materials give the restoration a natural look, which makes them a popular choice for repairing front teeth in order to preserve the aesthetics of your smile.
Dental composite resin is another tooth-colored material that can give you an aesthetic restoration. All-resin materials don’t contain any metals. They are highly affordable, but are arguably the weakest material for crowns since they’re prone to chipping, cracking, and rapid wear.
Zirconium is a biocompatible dental material that produces crowns that are as strong and durable as metal crowns and natural-looking for an aesthetic restoration. Zirconia crowns don’t cause allergic reactions, and can be fabricated at the dentist’s office for same-day crown restorations.
The Right Material for Your Crowns
Please discuss the pros and cons of each material with your dentist to determine the most appropriate one for your permanent crown restoration.
To learn more about Dental Crowns in Litchfield MN please contact us today.
Dental Checks Ups & Teeth Cleaning in Litchfield MN
Many people today know about the importance of oral health and how it affects your overall health. Optimal oral hygiene requires a combination of proper and consistent daily oral hygiene practices at home and routine professional dental cleanings. This helps to protect your teeth from decay and keep the gums healthy, while keeping your smile bright.
However, one thing that may not be clear is why the American Dental Association recommends dental cleanings every six months. Generally, brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing every day should help to remove most of the harmful bacteria from your teeth and mouth. But the small quantity of bacteria that remains may still pose a threat to your oral health over time, if it’s not removed.
Some of the risks include:
- Excessive tooth wear and cavities from the acid produced by plaque
- Bad breath from improper teeth cleaning
- Teeth discoloration from the colored foods you consume and calcification and mineralization of plaque in the form of tartar or calculus, which attracts more harmful bacteria
- Minor gum infection or gingivitis, which is characterized by gum inflammation, swelling, and reddening. Due to sensitive gums, you may also notice some blood on your toothbrush or when rinsing your mouth after brushing.
- Advanced gum infection – If there are no interventions, gingivitis can advance to a more serious case of gum disease known as periodontitis or periodontal disease. It affects the foundation of your teeth – the bone tissue connecting your teeth to the jaw.
- Exacerbated health issues – the infection can spread from your mouth to other tissues, making it harder to manage other conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and dementia
Cleanings for Optimal Oral Health
Fortunately, most of these problems can be successfully treated or managed with professional dental cleaning and an improved oral care regimen at home. That said, periodontitis is a chronic, progressive, and episodic gum infection. If not treated promptly, periodontitis can cause severe bone loss that loosens your teeth with some even falling out. Though it’s irreversible, dental professionals can help you manage the symptoms and improve your oral health.
Please visit your dentist today to examine the condition of your teeth and gums and determine the best type of dental cleaning in Litchfield MN to improve your oral health and reduce the risk of advanced gum disease and cavities.
How a Cosmetic Smile Makeover Can Improve Your Smile in Litchfield MN
Many people can assess your mood and personality based solely on your smile, before saying a single word. If you have a dazzling, bright smile, then this will work well for both your personal and professional relationships. However, a sparkling smile may lose its vibrancy over time due to discoloration, chips and cracks, decay, excessive grinding, and tooth loss. Fortunately, no matter the problem with your teeth, a cosmetic smile makeover can help to restore your dazzling smile through the right combination of cosmetic and restorative treatments.
Your Cosmetic Smile Makeover
Just as each individual has a unique look, each smile makeover has to be customized by a skilled dentist to address your specific aesthetic needs. A smile makeover can involve multiple procedures, depending on the health of your teeth and gums, as well as other factors such as your facial appearance, hair color, and skin tone.
During your consultation, your dentist will work with you to design the ideal smile, and you will even get to see a smile preview of what you can expect your smile to look like before any actual dental work begins.
Some of the common problems that can be addressed with a smile makeover include:
- Discolored or badly stained teeth
- Chipped or fractured teeth – the right procedure depends on the extent of damage
- Straightening crooked teeth or a misaligned bite – depending on the severity and your age, your dentist will recommend the appropriate orthodontic treatment
- Gaps between your teeth – can be closed to make your smile look more even
- Missing teeth can cause functional problems. Your dentist will recommend an appropriate tooth restoration.
- A gummy smile can also be corrected.
Consult Your Dentist for a Cosmetic Smile Makeover
A smile makeover can change your life by simply improving the shape, color, size, or length of your teeth, or changing the appearance of your lips or gums to make your smile more attractive.
Please visit your dentist in Litchfield MN to discuss the best options to help you improve your smile.
What to Expect with Cosmetic Dentistry in Litchfield MN
Cosmetic dentistry in Litchfield MN is a branch of professional oral care aimed at improving the appearance of your teeth and smile. A beautiful smile is vital for a successful life, both professionally and socially. It makes you appear happy, healthy, and attractive, which gives you great confidence in your various pursuits and makes you feel like you can do anything.
Cosmetic dentistry in Litchfield MN comprises a number of dental procedures designed to improve the appearance of your smile and, essentially, boost your self-esteem. Whether you want to repair tooth defects or improve your appearance for an upcoming event, your professional cosmetic dental team will come up with a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.
What to Expect
A typical cosmetic dental consultation is a brief appointment with the dentist to discuss any issues that you have with your teeth and smile, as well as the various treatments available and the best options for your case. This provides a great opportunity to ask specific details about procedures you’re interested in, such as the treatment process, how it would benefit you, the recovery time, how your life would change, etc.
Even as you express your interests to the dentist, your dental visit will also include a mini-examination, a review of your dental and medical history, and dental imaging so the dentist can have a clear look at your teeth. Next, you will establish clear treatment goals based on your needs and concerns. At the end of the visit, you will know:
- The cosmetic procedures that are right for your case
- What to realistically expect after each procedure – based on previous patients before-and-after pictures
- How long the treatments will take
- When to start your cosmetic dental treatment
- The recovery time
- How your life would change
If you’re self-conscious about your teeth or want to improve your smile, please schedule your free consultation with your cosmetic dentist in Litchfield today.
Reasons to Visit a Dental Implant Dentist Near Me | Litchfield MN
When it comes to repairing your smile after tooth loss, it is important that you work with a quality dental implant dentist in Litchfield MN with multiple options to help you attain the smile of your dreams. Dental implants provide one of the best ways to permanently replace missing teeth and restore the optimal function and beauty of your mouth.
An Artificial Tooth that Feels Natural
Dental implants are a permanent solution for restoring missing teeth that involves the surgical placement of a small titanium post that will bond to the jaw bone. The implant provides a strong anchor for the custom-made crown that will be placed above the gums to fill the gap. This post acts as a tooth root, so it continues to stimulate the jawbone just like your natural tooth. This, in turn, helps to retain your natural face structure and prevents premature aging.
Other benefits of dental implants in Litchfield MN include:
- Dental implants fit into your mouth like a natural tooth because they’re anchored into your jaw bone, so they feel and function like your original teeth
- Permanent, long-term tooth replacement solution that should last a lifetime with proper maintenance
- Easier to speak, eat, and maintain oral hygiene – Implants allow you to bite and chew your favorite foods without fear of the replacement tooth/teeth slipping or falling out of place.
- They don’t require any special cleaning or hygiene practices. You simply brush and floss like your other teeth
- Protects healthy teeth and bone – Dental implants are standalone, meaning that they need to be supported by adjacent teeth. In fact, they fill a gap and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, which helps to maintain proper structure and function.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth, either alone or with dentures. Some additional procedures may be necessary to provide sufficient bone material to bond with the titanium post, like bone grafting. Please visit your dental implant dentist in Litchfield MN to discuss your case and candidature for dental implants.
When Should I Visit a Cosmetic Dentist Near Me? | Litchfield MN
Your beautiful smile forms a central part of your image, which positively affects your relationships, both socially and professionally. Today, there are numerous dental procedures that your cosmetic dentist in Litchfield MN can use to improve your smile. Even a subtle change to your smile can make a huge difference in the way you look, the way you feel about yourself, and the way others perceive you.
Here are some of the most common teeth problems your cosmetic dentist in Litchfield MN can treat:
- Stained or Discolored Teeth – There are many things that contribute to tooth discoloration, including age, food, drinks, medications, smoking, and other lifestyle factors
- Tooth Decay – Decay occurs due to the buildup of plaque, causing it to eat away your tooth structure and create cavities. Depending on the extent of damage, your dentist will remove the infection, treat the site, and then fill the cavity to stop further deterioration.
- Chipped or Fractured Teeth – Teeth can break due to any kind of trauma in an accident, due to a sports injury, or even bad habits such as chewing ice or opening soda bottles with your teeth. Broken teeth can be repaired in a simple in-office procedure to restore the aesthetics of your smile.
- Crooked, Overcrowded, or Misaligned Teeth – The dentist will recommend the appropriate custom dental appliances to gradually move your teeth to the desired position.
- Missing Teeth – There are several options for replacing missing teeth depending on the health of adjacent teeth, the health of the gum and jawbone tissues, age, and personal preferences, among others.
Anyone who has been shy or hesitant about smiling or laughing with other people because of fractures, cracks, stains, or gaps in their teeth is a great candidate for cosmetic dentistry. If you’re self-conscious about your teeth or want to improve your smile, please visit a Litchfield dentist near you to discuss your case.
How Your Oral Surgeon Uses Cone Beam CT for Less Invasive Dental Surgery | Litchfield MN
As dental technology advances, your oral surgeon in Litchfield MN is able to better care for all your dental needs whether preventative, restorative, or cosmetic. One advancement that has had a significant impact on dentistry is Cone Beam CT imaging which gives your dentist a detailed look at your teeth. This advance look means more accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations for all patients.
Understanding Cone Beam CT
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), is a medical imaging technique, which allows our doctors to visualize the jaws and teeth in three dimensions. This technology allows for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning for our patients.
When the CBCT is utilized for patients, the doctor plans surgical procedures, like tooth extraction or surgical implant with precision. This creates a safer surgical environment and a quicker, less invasive surgery for the patient.
Benefits for the Patient
Cone Beam technology not only gives your dentist a better look at your teeth and gums for optimal diagnosis and treatment but also gives you greater benefits for your oral health including:
- A detailed look at your teeth and gums in real-time.
- Better planning means a less invasive procedure.
- An overall safer surgical experience.
Learn more about the latest advancements available at your dental practice by contacting your oral surgeon in Litchfield MN today.
Is Six Month Smiles Treatment Right for You? | Litchfield MN
As an adult, straightening your smile is essential for clear communication and a confident appearance in social and professional situations. Many patients find a newfound boost in their self-esteem and finding themselves smiling and laughing more in crowds because they are no longer afraid to show their smiles. Fortunately, with the Six Month Smiles treatment, your orthodontist can help you achieve a beautiful, confident smile quickly and discreetly.
What is the Six Month Smiles System?
Six Month Smiles is a short term orthodontic treatment that involves wearing clear braces to straighten and improve tooth alignment. For many adults, this alternative treatment is a convenient approach to a straighter smile without the time commitment. On average, Six Month Smiles treatments last just six months which makes it an attractive dental solution for many patients.
What Are the Advantages of Six Month Smiles Treatment?
Although the process is accelerated, the aligners are designed to make sure patients feel comfortable and confident throughout the treatment. Advantages of this treatment include:
- Clear brackets and tooth-colored wires that are virtually undetectable on the surface of your teeth.
- The aesthetic appearance of the brackets that are ideal for many adults.
- Custom fabrication to move your teeth into the desired position in minimal time.
- A possible convenient and often more affordable alignment solution.
Overall Six Month Smiles is a suitable solution for many adults who wish to straighten their smiles for a more confident and radiant appearance. Patients are often surprised by how quickly they begin to see results and how straightening their teeth improves their longterm oral health.
Schedule Your Consultation
To learn more about the benefits of straightening your smile, contact your orthodontist in Litchfield MN to schedule your consultation today. We look forward to helping you achieve your best smile and enhance your oral health!
5 Reasons to Choose Orthodontic Treatment in Litchfield MN
When your teeth and jaws are properly aligners, the overall health of your mouth improved. Crowded, misaligned, and crooked teeth may lead to various problems later on that will need to be fixed through extractions, root canals, tooth replacements, and even surgery. Many of these associated problems can be prevented by choosing orthodontic treatment. Moreover, in many cases, straighter teeth improve your smile and self-confidence, as well.
Here are some reasons to choose orthodontic treatment today:
- Reduction of uneven wear of tooth enamel caused by unbalanced forces on the teeth
- A great smile that improves your appearance. This results in greater confidence and improved self-esteem
- Straight teeth that are easier to clean. This translates in healthier teeth and gums, resulting in reduced risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
- Correction of jaw and joint problems. Misalignment can strain the jaw joints, resulting in TMJ disorder. Temporomandibular jaw disorders (TMD) make it difficult to open and close the mouth, sometimes causing clicking and popping in the jaw, facial pain, and chronic headaches.
- To hold or create space to replace missing teeth, preventing adjacent teeth from shifting. Your orthodontist can also work with your general dentist or specialist to install dentures, implants, or bridgework to give you the best result.
- To reduce bruxism. Malocclusion can strain your jaws, causing you to grind your teeth or clench the jaws (bruxism). Over time, the increased pressure can damage your teeth and jaws. Straightening your teeth can reduce the risk of bruxism.
Final Note
Orthodontic treatment is intended to improve both the function of your teeth and aesthetics of your smile by considering your profile, bone structure, face, and muscular function, and balancing these elements precisely using advanced technologies.
Orthodontic treatment is beneficial to all people irrespective of your age, provided you have interest, enthusiasm, and dedication to participate actively in your treatment. If you do as directed by your orthodontist in Litchfield MN, you can enjoy great results sooner. It’s important that you attend appointments regularly, keep your braces or aligners clean and safe, and avoid hard and sticky foods that can interfere with a successful outcome.
What to Expect with Single Tooth Anesthesia in Litchfield MN
For many patients, avoiding necessary dental procedures because of the treatment process is more common than you think. Some patients may find having part of their mouth numbed with anesthesia uncomfortable or too invasive. Fortunately, advancements in dentistry offer dentists the ability to use single tooth anesthesia to numb only the tooth that needs treatment.
What to Expect
Your dentist will use a computer-assisted system for local anesthesia called The Wand. It carefully guides your dental professional as they are performing dental injections. Patients who experience this new technology will find it offers less pain and more contained numbness for the area that is being treated by using single tooth anesthesia (STA). Additional benefits include:
- Modernization – With STA, your dentist is using the newest one-of-a-kind technology that allows a single out a tooth to be numbed.
- Protection – The patented computer system releases the anesthesia in a painless way but also in a dose that is secure for the patient. Using this procedure, you will not run the risk of receiving too much anesthetic.
- Effectiveness – STA eliminates any guessing as your dentist applies the anesthetic. The effective delivery of anesthesia means the effects are felt faster and last longer.
- Less Pain. This treatment option removes the discomfort out of the anesthesia delivery and protects the surrounding areas of the mouth.
To learn more about what to expect with single tooth anesthesia, please contact your dentist in Litchfield MN today!
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