Litchfield Dental Dental Blog

White, Tooth Colored Filling – FAQs | Litchfield MN

Here are some frequently asked questions about white, tooth colored fillings.

What is White Tooth Colored Filling?

Tooth colored filling refers to a dental treatment or procedure that is used to fill cavities or restore a decayed or damaged tooth. During the procedure, the dentist uses the tooth-colored filling material to fill the cavity, restoring the full form and function of your teeth, as well as your beautiful smile.

Why is White Tooth Colored Filling a Good Option?

White tooth colored filling remains an excellent option to restore your teeth because of the numerous benefits it offers. It can help restore decayed teeth, repair chipped teeth, and close unsightly gaps between your teeth.

Do they Look Natural Compared to My Own Teeth?

Yes. The filling material is matched to your natural tooth color and then bonded directly to the tooth, giving you a restoration that is both discrete and understated.

What White, Tooth Colored Filling is Right for Me?

To determine whether white tooth colored filling is right for you, it is important that you consider your dental treatment requirements. This will require you to visit your dentist for a thorough examination of the damaged or decayed tooth, followed by customization of the tooth-colored fillings to match your enamel so it blends in when you smile. Please call our office to book your consultation appointment. 

How Long Does It Take To Get White fillings?

The time taken to get the white fillings depends on different factors, including the cavity size, its location, and the number of fillings required. The procedure can take up to one hour or longer for a filling.

Contact Us Today!

If you still have more questions about white tooth colored filling, contact our dental practice today. Our dentists will be available to discuss with you and provide suitable answers to your questions and concerns.

Best Rated General Dentist Near Me, Litchfield MN

Your natural teeth should last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. That is why you need a reliable dentist near me to help provide adequate care for your dental health, treat dental issues, and adjust your overall dental hygiene routine as your needs change. But before choosing a new dentist, it is important that you carry out detailed research. If you need a top rated dentist near me, our dental practice is the ideal place to turn to. 

At our dental office, we work with a team of experts who have the necessary experience to address various procedures for patients of all ages. We work with a dedicated team with several years of experience in various dental procedures. We offer dental exams, routine cleanings, and other advanced dental procedures at our deluxe dental office.

Preventative Dental Care 

We believe in taking preventive measures, such as brushing your teeth and flossing at home to reduce the risk of dental problems. We also encourage regular visits to our office for professional teeth cleanings. Our dentist can help you with this to reduce the risk of dental problems in the future. In addition, routine exams can allow us to repair teeth at their earliest possible stage, reducing discomfort and tooth decay.

Restorative Dental Services 

Dental emergencies can happen to anyone when you least expect it. It is important to have a nearby dentist for treatment when necessary. Our experienced dentist and dental team performs a wide range of dental procedures using state-of-the-art dental equipment, the newest techniques, and advanced technology. This translates to pain-free procedures and quick recovery. Whether it is a minor or major issue with your teeth or gums, our dentists will offer a fast, efficient, and lasting solution.

Cosmetic Dental Services 

Building a beautiful, healthy smile through restorative and cosmetic dental procedures is our responsibility to our patients. Our compassionate cosmetic dental services and procedures will help you achieve the healthy gums and brilliant smile you always wanted.

Contact Us Today!

Call our dental team today to get an appointment with one of our experienced dentist. We offer affordable, reliable, and highly professional dental services. Our trusted dental team will be happy to meet with you and discuss your available dental options.

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 cosmetic dental procedures that you 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 cosmetic teeth problems: 

  • 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 cosmetic dentist near you to discuss your case. 

Types of Dental Cleanings in Litchfield MN

Scheduled professional teeth cleaning is a key component of your preventative dental care to maintain optimal dental health and minimize the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. The American Dental Association recommends that dental cleanings be performed every six months by a dental practitioner. However, some people may require more frequent cleanings depending on their risk factors.

Your dentist may recommend one of the following types of dental cleanings after examining your teeth and gums: 

1. Prophylaxis (prophy) 

This is commonly referred to as “teeth cleaning”, and involves the removal of accumulated plaque from your teeth, which cannot be removed by regular brushing at home. The process also includes tooth polishing, and should be done every 8 to 16 weeks. Generally, a good candidate for prophylaxis should have firm, pink gums with no bleeding or gum pockets over 3mm. 

2. Full Mouth Debridement 

If your teeth are not professionally cleaned for more than a year, your teeth may have heavy plaque and tartar (calculus) build-up. In such a case, regular prophylaxis may not be sufficient. So your dental professional may recommend full mouth debridement using hand tools and a micro-ultrasonic scaler to remove the plaque and calculus from your teeth and gums, and restore the health of your mouth. 

3. Scaling and Root Planing 

Commonly referred to as “deep cleaning”, this procedure is usually recommended for patients who exhibit signs of periodontal disease, such as deeper gum pockets (over 3mm), inflammation and bleeding gums, accumulation of plaque and tartar below the gumline, and/or loss of bone tissue supporting the teeth. 

4. Periodontal Maintenance 

Following treatment for periodontal disease through scaling and root planing or periodontal surgery, your dental professional may recommend this specialized cleaning every 8 – 12 weeks as part of your periodontal treatment follow up to reduce the risk of gum disease recurrence. 

Schedule Your Dental Cleaning Today 

The right type of dental cleaning in Litchfield MN will be determined by your dental professional depending on the clinical condition of your teeth and gums, as well as your risk and history of periodontal disease and treatment. Please visit your dentist to discuss your cleaning needs today.

What to Expect with Dental Crowns in Litchfield MN

When it comes to repairing a cracked, chipped, or fractured tooth, dental crowns are the most common treatment option, except in few cases where dental fillings may be used for minimal tooth damage in the front teeth. 

One key difference between dental crowns and fillings is that the latter draw their strength from the tooth, whereas crowns strengthen the tooth by enclosing it with a cap. Depending on the extent of damage, a well-placed filling may last between 5 and 15 years, whereas a dental crown should last a lifetime. In general, if more than 50% of the tooth is damaged, then a crown should be placed. If a filled tooth continues to deteriorate, then it can be strengthened by a crown. 

Your dentist may recommend dental crowns to address the following problems:

  • 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 

Living with a Dental Crown

Crowns are intended to last a lifetime, which means that they are made from tough and durable materials that are also wear and stain-resistant. That said, the exposed section of your natural tooth – that has not been enclosed by the tooth cap – is still susceptible to decay if you don’t exercise good oral hygiene. It’s important that you brush and floss your teeth every day, and visit the dentist every 6 months for professional cleanings to ensure optimal oral health. 

Just as the crown material is stain resistant, it also cannot be bleached. So if you plan on whitening your teeth, your dentist may recommend that you start with it. This way, the shade of your crown can be selected based on the color of your new, sparkling white smile to create a uniform look. 

To learn more about dental crowns and whether they’re good for you, please schedule a consultation with your dentist.

Dental Fillings Cost in Litchfield MN

Dental fillings are one of the most popular procedures in dentistry because they can be used to restore the common types of tooth damage, such as chips, fractures, and decay. If you have a broken tooth, and are expecting that your dentist will recommend dental fillings to repair the damage, then you’re probably wondering what the procedure will cost you. 

The cost of a dental filling is not the same for every person. It depends on many factors, such as the severity of your tooth damage, the location of the damaged tooth, and additional procedures that may be required, among other factors. 

Here is a breakdown of individual procedures that may add up to the total cost of dental fillings:

  • Tooth examination – before any dentist recommends dental fillings, they need to thoroughly examine the extent of damage on the tooth, which usually requires an X-ray. 
  • Tooth preparation – after determining that a dental filling can successfully repair the damage, your dentist proceeds by preparing the tooth for the filling. This process involves administering an anesthetic to numb the tooth, removal of any decay from the tooth, and placement of the filling material. 
  • Type of filling material – there are different types of dental filling materials, and your choice of material will also impact the cost of treatment. 

Silver or amalgam fillings are the cheapest treatment. For tooth-colored composite resin fillings, you will need to pay a little more. Ceramics or porcelain fillings are also tooth-colored, but are usually much more expensive than the other options.

Are fillings covered in my dental insurance plan?

Dental fillings are mostly used in dental emergencies, so your dental insurance may cover it. That said, you may also need to pay some or all of the cost out-of-pocket. The dental team will examine your insurance plan to determine whether you’re covered for dental fillings, whether there’s a waiting period for the cover to kick in, and for how much you’re covered each year. 

What to Look For In A Family Dentist in Litchfield MN

There are many factors to be considered when choosing a good family dentist. You want to find a professional who helps you maintain not only your pearly white smile, but also great oral health for you and your kids. This also partly depends on being able to maintain your regular visits, which means that you should at least have good rapport with your dentist to easily forge that long-term association. 

When choosing a quality family dentist, you should ensure that your entire family’s dental needs can be properly addressed, especially for your children because their teeth are still developing. It’s essential to find a gentle and patient dentist for your children, who has experience working with them, maintains a positive attitude, and helps them feel comfortable and safe. 

Training and experience 

It’s expected that any professional dentist will only provide the services that they’re trained for. If your dentist graduated from an accredited dental school, and is registered with a dental association, then it means that they’re skilled and committed to ongoing education in order to be familiar with emerging technologies and procedures for improved safety, efficiency, and effectiveness. 

So you should find one offering a broad range of services that you and your loved ones will need to ensure that you get the proper oral care you deserve. Generally, your family dentist should be capable of performing most types of restorative and cosmetic procedures, for people of all ages, in order to address any issues that arise during regular visits, as well as dental emergencies. 

Some of the important dental procedures include:

  • Kids dentistry – such as sealants 
  • Preventative dentistry – regular teeth cleaning 
  • Restorative dentistry – fillings, crowns, root canal treatment
  • Gum disease treatment 
  • Emergency procedures – wisdom tooth removal, tooth extraction
  • Cosmetic dentistry – teeth whitening 

By choosing a family dentist in advance who provides these and additional services, and establishing a positive relationship with them, you can have most of your family’s oral care needs handled under one roof, without the inconvenience of bouncing around different dentists to fulfil every new need.

Cost of Dental Exam & Teeth Cleaning in Litchfield MN

Routine dental checkups and professional cleaning form a vital part of preventative oral care. These preventive visits may also include additional services, such as X-rays, fluoride application, cancer examination, and so on depending on your personal dental care needs and your last oral checkup. Combined with a proper at-home oral care routine, these visits help you maintain optimal dental health, reducing the risk of tooth loss and expensive dental procedures. 

But how much can you expect to pay for these routine dental visits?

The national average costs of popular dental services such as exams and cleaning vary from one region to the other, and from dentist to dentist.

If you have a dental insurance plan, your cost of preventive care may be considerably lower, or nothing more than your monthly premium. Since dental insurance plans typically emphasise preventative care, most of them cover two annual dental checkups. That said, you should consult your dental insurance company to determine the various dental services covered by your policy, as well as the extent of the coverage. 

Final note 

Dental insurance can provide savings when receiving preventive care services such as routine exams, professional cleanings, sealants for children, topical fluoride, and x-rays (usually one set per year). The frequency and benefits for each service depend on the type of plan you have, so you should always read the plan details carefully. Even if your employer does not offer dental insurance as a perk, you can purchase an individual or family plan to enjoy reduced cost of most preventive and restorative dental treatments.

Best Dentist in My Area | Litchfield MN

In the world of dentistry, there are many types of dentists, including those who give great service and treat you with the utmost care, like here at our office. If you’re looking for a dentist who will listen to your concerns and needs, while providing quality services in a gentle and friendly environment — you may want to start by contacting our office. 

General dentists are also known as primary care dentists and they provide preventive, restorative, diagnostic and surgical services for patients of all ages.

Are you looking for a new dentist? 

The first thing to consider when looking for a dentist near me is the location. If you live in an area with limited access to dental care, it might be best to find a new provider before your condition gets worse. If you have time, you can also look for dentists who offer evening and weekend hours and appointments that are convenient for your schedule.

When you find your next dentist, make sure he or she is experienced in treating root canals, crowns and fillings. A good dentist will also be able to give you a detailed oral health history and recommend the best treatments for your teeth and gums.

Your dentist is your best bet when it comes to maintaining overall health and well-being. Not only does it help keep your teeth healthy, it also helps keep your mouth healthy and helps prevent other health conditions related to your mouth. If you have any questions or have any concerns about your dental health, feel free to contact us during our normal business hours. We look forward to helping you maintain your smile!

Are You Looking for a Dentist Near Me?

Contact our office today to schedule your appointment!

Common Questions – Professional Teeth Whitening in Litchfield MN

The aging process, your diet, and other lifestyle choices can discolor your teeth over time. Whiter teeth are associated with beauty, success, and good health. They also draw attention away from other features, giving you a more youthful and vibrant appearance. 

Teeth whitening provides a fast and cost-effective way to get the smile of your dreams. It involves removing stains and discoloration to brighten your teeth and improve their appearance. 

Why Do Your Teeth Change Color?

There are many reasons why few people have impeccably white teeth, including:

  • 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 medications, 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 

Any of these reasons can lead you to find a dentist near you for teeth whitening. 

Final Note 

Please keep in mind that teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that may help to improve your self-confidence, but to maintain the results for as long as possible, you must be prepared to uphold your dental hygiene by brushing and flossing properly, avoiding smoking, avoiding colored drinks that stain your teeth, drinking plenty of water, and getting professional cleaning twice a year. 

Please schedule a consultation with your dentist to learn more about teeth whitening and other ways you can improve your smile.

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