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What Does a Family Dentist Do? | Litchfield MN
Family dentistry is an approach to oral health care where all your needs can be met at every stage of life. Babies, children, teenagers, and adults have different dental needs at different points in time. A qualified family dentist in Litchfield is skilled in providing comprehensive oral care for both baby teeth and permanent teeth, as well as any tooth restorations or replacements you may require at any point in life.
What to Expect with Family Dentistry
Like general dentists, your family dentist in Litchfield focuses on ensuring good oral hygiene and the optimal condition of your teeth. However, this dental professional can address the unique needs of people of all ages for a number of conditions. Common procedures include:
- Regular professional cleanings
- Dental fillings and crowns
- Gum disease treatment
- Tooth extraction
- Root canal therapy
- Tooth replacement
- Teeth whitening
- Smile makeover
- Orthodontic care
The American Dental Association recommends that you take your child for a dental checkup as soon as the first tooth appears, or by the first birthday. This is important to prevent the most common dental problem for children, early childhood cavities, and other oral issues that can affect your child’s smile, especially by the age of four years.
As you prepare for your child’s first visit to the family dentist, you should create a list of any medical conditions, current medications, and allergies your child has. You should also note down your pediatrician’s contact information in case the dentist needs more information. In addition, it’s important to note down any harmful dental habits that your child has picked and may affect his/her smile in the long run. Sucking habits, whether it’s a finger, bottle, or pacifier may adversely affect the development of primary teeth and the jaw and should be corrected as early as possible.
Dental visits also provide the opportunity to learn about best oral hygiene practices. Depending on your child’s age when visiting the family dentist, there are different things you may want to learn about taking care of his/her mouth. This is an important time to find out about preventative oral care, including proper brushing technique, flossing, diet, the use of sealants, fluoride treatments, and so on.
Schedule Your Appointment
By finding a qualified Litchfield dentist near you, you can have peace of mind that all your family’s oral health needs will be met under one roof, with consistent dental history.
Family Dentist Near Me, Litchfield Dental 55355
As a family dentist, our practice is capable of handling the oral health needs of all your family members, including children, teenagers, adults, and even seniors. We realize that your smile is vulnerable from the moment the first tooth sets in, and even before that. With our skills and experience in preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, you can have peace of mind that your entire family will have convenient access to quality, essential dental care under one roof.
Your Child’s First Visit
Studies suggest that pre-school aged children are more likely to develop cavities if their first dental checkup is delayed. Moreover, an estimated 25 percent of children develop cavities by the age of four years. To prevent this and to ensure optimal oral health for your child, the American Dental Association recommends that you schedule your child’s first appointment with your family dentist as soon as the first tooth erupts. The Academy of Pediatric Dentistry further claims that visiting a family dentist by the age of two years can help reduce the risk of early childhood cavities.
Even if the first tooth is yet to appear, it’s never too early to visit a family dentist for your child so you can discuss oral hygiene, a healthy diet, fluoride options, and so on to give your child a dazzling and healthy smile. Family dentists are different from general dentists in that they are capable of addressing most dental issues for people of all ages, including children, teenagers, and adults. So if you already have access to a quality family dentist, then all that’s left is to introduce your children to the dental office so they can also start their journey for professional dental care.
Visit Your Family Dentist Today
Keep in mind that healthy primary teeth and gums will build a strong foundation for the healthy development of permanent teeth, which in turn affects your child’s bite, ability to chew food, and even clear speech. Moreover, by ensuring good oral hygiene at a young age, you will be helping to develop good habits that promote a healthy smile and self-confidence in the long run.
To learn more about what to expect with family dentistry, schedule your appointment with a Litchfield dentist near you.
Dental Implant Dentist Near Me, Litchfield MN
Dental implants are arguably the best solution for missing teeth. When you have a severely damaged or decayed tooth that cannot be saved with a crown or root canal therapy, then your dental implant dentist may recommend that it be completely removed.
Unfortunately, any spaces left unfilled between your teeth cause adjacent teeth to shift towards the gap, causing bite misalignment and other problems. In addition, without the tooth root to stimulate the underlying bone tissue, the jawbone may begin to lose mass and strength (bone atrophy), which makes your face shrink and look older. If your dentist recommends tooth extraction, he/she will also suggest an appropriate tooth replacement option to prevent this from happening.
What to Expect
A dental implant is surgically placed in the jawbone and allowed to fuse with your natural bone, creating a firm foundation for the replacement tooth. Singular implants can be used to replace one missing tooth or to support bridgework for 2 or 3 missing teeth. Multiple implants can also be placed at appropriate intervals to support dentures and keep them from slipping when eating and talking.
Dental implants are the only restorative option that stops bone atrophy after tooth loss. A dental implant comprises three parts:
- Titanium post – that is surgically placed into the jawbone
- Abutment – used to attach the post to the crown
- Crown – section of the tooth above the gum line that is connected to the post via the abutment
Who is the Right Candidate for Dental Implants?
Although the success rate of dental implants is high, at over 96%, the right candidate should:
- Have good overall health with no signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or jawbone degeneration
- Have sufficient jawbone tissue to support the posts
- Have no conditions that put you at risk of surgical procedures, like over bleeding
If you don’t have enough bone tissue to support an implant, the dental implant dentist may recommend a bone regeneration procedure to build up the base for the implant. This will, however, increase the duration of your dental implant treatment from the usual 4-6 months.
It is important that you discuss with your dentist in Litchfield about your candidacy for dental implants.
Cost of Dental Implants in Litchfield MN
If you are looking to replace one or more missing teeth, or perhaps you’re looking for a more reliable alternative to old dentures, partials, or loose teeth, your dentist may recommend, and restore your oral health, function, and youthful vibrancy with dental implants. Dental implants are a revolutionary tooth replacement option which makes the cost of dental implants worth the expense to achieve the time-tested benefits.
Implants are safe, reliable, and well-proven for permanently replacing one or more missing teeth. Many people have benefited from dental implants as the preferred long-term solution for excellent comfort and function, which they claim to be similar to having your natural teeth.
Unlike other tooth replacement options, like bridgework and dentures, the placement of dental implants involves a minor surgical procedure, during which the implant will be placed in the jaw. This single factor makes the treatment more costly than other options. Dental implants lie in the category of implantology under restoration dentistry. They require specialist care that is typically more expensive than general dental care. Actually, they can only be placed by an oral surgeon, periodontist, or dentist with relevant advanced training and experience.
The other things that affect the cost of implants are:
- Position of the tooth – replacing a front tooth usually involves a lot more work because of the minimal work-space available compared to a back tooth. In addition, the abutment used in the front teeth is usually more costly than the standard abutments used in back teeth placement.
- Thorough examination – the consultation process also includes a number of costly exams including diagnostic imaging (panoramic X-ray).
- Multiple, unique parts – each implant comprises three elements: the implant, abutment, and crown, all of which are made from different materials, through different processes, and are placed at different appointments.
- Additional procedures – some patients require periodontal treatment or bone grafts to prepare your gums and bone tissue for implant surgery and increase your chances of a successful procedure, which adds to the overall cost of treatment.
Please visit your dental surgeon in Litchfield today to find out about the cost of getting dental implants for your specific case.
Cost of Teeth Whitening in Litchfield MN
Nothing gives you a more confident smile than having impeccable white teeth. Whiter teeth are often associated with beauty, good health, and high self-esteem. They stand out and everyone is drawn to you, which is good for your professional and social life. This is why many find the cost of teeth whitening worth the expense for a beautiful, bright smile.
There are different whitening treatments whose effectiveness depends on the cause of the discoloration and the type of whitening system. During your appointment, the dentist will perform a thorough dental examination to determine the condition of your teeth and oral tissues, and identify the source of the discoloration. Before any treatment, the dentist will professionally clean your teeth using specialized tools to remove the plaque and tartar that may interfere with the whitening process. Afterward, your teeth whitening treatment can continue.
Is Professional Whitening Worth It?
Considering that teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure, it’s usually not covered by dental insurance. So if you’re planning to schedule the procedure, then you will likely need to pay out-of-pocket.
The cost of teeth whitening depends on several factors, including:
- Type of whitening treatment and sessions
- The extent of tooth discoloration
- Dentist skill and expertise
- Location of dental practice
- Additional procedures before whitening
- Number of follow-up visits
In addition to the cost of treatment, you should also consider the maintenance needed to keep your smile impeccably white. Even with great results following teeth whitening, the changes tend to fade over time, with the whitening effect lasting about one year. So to maintain your white, dazzling smile for as long as possible, you should avoid stain-causing foods and drinks, or at least rinse your mouth with water after eating and drinking. You should also consider stopping smoking, and scheduling follow-up whitening treatments every 6 to 12 months.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
With affordable teeth whitening options and flexible payment plans, you can get the smile of your dreams today. Please visit your cosmetic dentist in Litchfield today for a consultation and to plan your teeth whitening treatment.
What to Expect with Dental Crowns in Litchfield MN
Dental crowns in Litchfield are a popular treatment because they can be used to repair different kinds of tooth damage, including chips, cracks, fractures, decay, damaged fillings, and even to close small gaps between teeth. They can also be used with dental bridgework or implants to replace one or more missing teeth.
The Procedure
If you’re a suitable candidate for crowns, the dentist will complete your treatment in two appointments. The first visit is for preparing the tooth for repair. Your dentist will first numb the damaged tooth before beginning any work. If the tooth is infected, the decay will be removed and the cavity thoroughly cleaned.
The dentist will then take digital impressions that will be used to create your custom tooth cap in a dental lab, making sure to match the color of your crown to that of your teeth or use a different shade if you wish to improve your smile. A temporary crown will then be placed to help you eat properly in the meantime.
On your next visit, the temporary crown will be replaced with the permanent one, and properly fitted to “cap” the entire damaged or decayed area of the tooth. This will make it look and function like your natural teeth.
Advantages of Crowns
- Dental crown placement is a painless procedure since the dentist administers a local anesthetic before starting any treatment on the tooth.
- Dental crowns in Litchfield are custom-made to your exact needs, including the size, shape, and shade of adjacent teeth. The crown is designed using computer-aided design (CAD/CAM) technology and fabricated through milling a ceramic block.
- While waiting for the permanent crown to be fabricated, you will be fitted with a temporary one to protect the teeth and prevent tooth sensitivity when eating.
When the procedure is complete, your dentist in Litchfield will advise you on how to care for your new tooth to ensure that it lasts forever. Proper care includes brushing regularly, flossing at least once a day, avoiding biting down or chewing hard foods and items.
To learn more about dental crowns and whether they’re good for you, please schedule a consultation today.
Cost of Teeth Whitening in Litchfield MN
Considering that teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure, it’s usually not covered by dental insurance. So if you’re planning to schedule the procedure, then you will likely need to cover the cost of teeth whitening out-of-pocket.
The cost of teeth whitening depends on several factors, including:
- Type of whitening treatment and sessions
- Extent of tooth discoloration
- Dentist skill and expertise
- Location of dental practice
- Additional procedures before whitening
In addition to the cost of treatment, you should also consider the maintenance needed to keep your smile impeccably white. Even with great results following teeth whitening, the changes tend to fade over time, with the whitening effect lasting about one year.
So to maintain your white, dazzling smile for as long as possible, you should follow these tips:
- 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.
- Schedule a follow-up whitening treatment every 6 to 12 months.
It’s possible to cut down on follow-up visits by following the recommended maintenance plan. To find out about the cost of teeth whitening for your specific case, please schedule an appointment with your cosmetic dentist in Litchfield today.
Cost of Dental Implants in Litchfield MN
Implants are one of the most common options for replacing one tooth or multiple teeth when combined with bridgework or dentures. Though the cost of dental implants is more expensive, they are preferred to other tooth replacement solutions because they are more secure and stable, offering the same level of comfort as your natural teeth.
What May Increase the Cost of Dental Implants?
The cost of getting implants varies considerably depending on different factors. For instance, some people may not be good candidates for the procedure because of using tobacco products or having a medical or dental condition that could prevent a successful dental implant placement.
Your oral surgeon may recommend bone grafting for patients with severe bone tissue loss to ensure that they have sufficient bone tissue to integrate with the titanium implant, and subsequently provide strong support for your replacement teeth. If you use tobacco products or have a medical condition or are taking medications that may affect bone healing such as diabetes, you need to get the situation under management before starting treatment. All of these situations increase the cost of your dental implant procedure.
Replacing a front tooth may also cost more because it involves a lot more work, owing to the minimal work-space available compared to a back tooth. In addition, the abutment used in the front teeth is usually more costly than the standard abutments used in back teeth placement. You also need to keep in mind that each implant comprises three elements: the implant, abutment, and crown, all of which are made from different materials, through different processes, and are placed at different appointments.
Specialist Care Costs More
Implants also require specialist care that is typically more expensive than general dental care. Dental implants lie in the category of implantology under restoration dentistry. The consultation for dental implants also involves a number of costly exams including diagnostic imaging (panoramic X-ray). Moreover, they can only be placed by an oral surgeon, periodontist, or dentist with relevant advanced training and experience.
To find out the cost for your dental implants, please visit your dental surgeon in Litchfield MN today.
Dental Crowns Dentist Near Me, Litchfield MN 55355
Dental crowns also referred to as tooth caps, are placed on a damaged tooth to strengthen its structure, restore its normal size, shape, and function, and/or improve its appearance. The dental crowns dentist will place a cap that fully encases the visible portion of your tooth above the gum line, such that it becomes the new outer surface of the tooth.
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
If you’re planning on getting a dental crown, then you should try to learn as much as you can about this versatile treatment before scheduling your dental visit. Although your dentist in Litchfield can provide the information you need, educating yourself about the procedure will allow you to ask the right questions to ensure that the results you get are exactly what you wanted.
Here are a few things to keep in mind about dental crowns:
- Tooth-colored crowns will give you the most natural tooth appearance because they blend in with your natural teeth and make the repair unnoticeable, producing an even, white smile.
- You need at least two dental appointments because dental crowns are created in a lab, which takes time. On your first visit, the dental crowns dentist will prepare the site, take digital impressions, and install a temporary crown. On your second visit, the permanent crown will be placed so it “caps” the entire damaged or decayed area of the tooth. This will make it look and function like your natural teeth.
To learn more about dental crowns and whether they’re right for your case, please schedule your visit.
6 Month Smiles Dentist Near Me, Litchfield MN 55355
For years, people looking for a solution to straighten their teeth or correct problems associated with teeth crowding and a misaligned bite have had to rely on traditional braces. With advances in dentistry, a 6 Month Smiles dentist now provides an alternative way to straighten your teeth that also addresses the concerns of traditional braces. The clear aligner system requires you to wear a series of custom trays made from smooth, translucent plastic that is specially made for wear over teeth.
Each set of aligners moves your teeth incrementally for a period of two weeks and replaced by the next set of trays in the series until the completion of your treatment in 6 months depending on your case.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
Clear aligners have become increasingly popular in recent years for several reasons, including:
- Discreet way to improve your smile without anyone noticing
- Removable aligners – so you can maintain your diet and dental cleaning routine
- Fewer visits to the dentist – dental visits are placed at 6-8 week intervals to assess the progress of the treatment and to receive your next 3-4 sets of aligners
This approach has proven to be helpful for all kinds of patients, from shy teens to social butterflies to active athletes, because the treatment does not interfere with their lifestyle.
The dentist in Litchfield uses an intraoral scanner to create 3D models of your teeth. The images are fed into 6 Month Smiles software to predict how your teeth will be moved over time until they reach the desired position. You can even view the results to expect at any point in the course of the treatment, as well as the final result, which helps to keep patients motivated for the entire duration of treatment.
With the advanced 6 Month Smiles system, straightening your teeth is a more pleasant and hassle-free experience compared to other orthodontic treatments. To learn more about 6 Month Smiles, please schedule your visit with your Invisalign dentist 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.
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