Dental Restorations - Rivers Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

January 10, 2024November 4, 2022 by Admin

If you have been recommended for dental implants, you may wonder if they will ever have to bereplaced. Implants are a permanent restorative solution for patients seeking that perfect smile.Dentalimplants look and feel natural in the mouth,and last upwards of 25 yearsif they are cared for properly.

At our practice, dental implants are one of the most common restorative options performed. Manypatients are leaning towards this permanent option to give them a durable smile that will last for years.Dental implants can last your entire life, and they are one of the most reliable tooth restoration optionsavailable to patients.

How Successful Are Dental Implants?

Implants have a 95% success rate, andwe encourage patients to use good oral hygiene habits to keepthe implants clean and free of plaque. This helps the implants to last, and prevents infection which canmake them unstable in the mouth. Implants moving or needing replacement is rare. If an implant shiftsout of place this could indicate the bone tissue is not providing enough support, and you should contactourdental office immediately.

Tips to Ensure your Dental Implants Last a Lifetime

Here are some helpful tips that you can start using to get the most out of your dental implants:

Floss daily using an implant specific floss or wax free floss to help keep the area clean and freeof plaque. A Waterpik Water Flosser can be used to assist in removing plaque around theimplants.
Use a low abrasive tooth brush such as a soft type brush on your implants.
Avoid any products, foods, or drinks containing any ingredients that may stain your teeth.
Anti-microbial rinses can be used to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
Avoid products thatcontain stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, or baking soda. Theseingredients can make the implants prone to corrosion.

Interested in Dental Implants?

Caring for your implants at home is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Practicing good oral hygienehabits at home will ensure your implants last for years and never need to be replaced. Our friendly teamis here to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. We are always available to answerquestions and help you every step of the way.

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants and how they may benefit you, contactus to schedule your consultation as soon as possible.

October 19, 2022 by Admin

Professional whitening is effective at removing years of stains and discolorationfrom the teeth. Whether you’re looking to boost your confidence or are going tobe attending a wedding, reunion or another big event, a bright and white smileis sure to improve your appearance. Expert whitening is performed in our officeor provided to you using a professional-grade take-home kit. Whitening resultscan last for months to one or more years, and maintaining your results is key toensuring that you’ll always have a gorgeous smile.

Why Should I Whiten My Teeth?

There are many factors that come into play when it comes to the whiteness andbrightness of your smile. If you’re a smoker, drink a lot of coffee, tea or cola oryou’re taking certain medications, you’ll notice that your teeth aren’t as white asthey used to be. Likewise, just the act of aging can have a serious impact on theway that your smile looks. By professionally whitening your teeth, you canexpect dramatic results that help to increase your self-esteem and confidence.

How Often Should Teeth Whitening Be Done?

It is best to avoid whitening your teeth too often. Over-whitening your teeth canlead to issues with hypersensitivity or even cause the teeth to look translucent.It is often recommended thatyou only whiten your teeth, whether at home orprofessionally, once a year. This prevents issues involving sensitivity and helpsin creating a natural-looking smile. The benefit of utilizing professional whiteningis that results typically last for aboutone year. This simply means that you won’tfeel the need to touch-up or go with another whitening system because of howdrastic the change is when using a professional whitening option.

How Can I Maintain My Results?

The best way to prevent the need for touch-ups is to avoid future staining anddiscoloration of the teeth. If you’re a smoker, now is the best time to quit and agreat way to extend the length of your results. Try to avoid drinking too manydark liquids, like coffee and cola, and opt for waterinstead. You may want toconsider using a whitening toothpaste so help clear away stains anddiscoloration before they are able to get worse. Be sure to speak with theexperts about whitening and always discuss when the last time you whitenedyour teeth actually was before retreatment.

October 19, 2022 by Admin

Cavities are always something we try to avoid with brushing and flossing each day. You may notice youget cavities frequently and others don’t. This doesn’t seem fair,but there are other factors that play intokeeping your teeth free of decay that you may not realize. There are ways to reduce your risk for cavitiesoutside of brushing and flossing regularly.

Why Are Some Prone to Cavities More Than Others?

Diet – Reducing the amount of sugar you eat or drink can help prevent cavities. Your chance ofgetting cavities increases if you eat or drink foods with a high amount of sugar.
Gum Recession – If you suffer from gum disease and your gums are receding,the root of thetooth is exposed. Bacteria can reach the root area of the tooth and cavitiescan develop moreeasily.
Dry Mouth – If you tendtohave a dry mouth your risk for decay increases. We need saliva towash away bacteria in our mouths.
Genetics – Unfortunatelysome people are born with a tendency to develop cavities morefrequently than others. This is because some people are more susceptible to a certain type ofcavity causing bacteria.

How Can I Reduce My Risk for Cavities?

There are things you can do to help reduce your risk for cavities. This doesn’t mean you will never have acavity again, but it does mean you are changing your habits,and putting forth a good effort to try andprevent decay from developing.

Regular Visits to Your Dentist – Make sure you attend your regular visits to your dentist. Theseexams help to identify potential cavities,and allow the dentist to get in front of issues beforethey become worse.
Reduce SugarsinYourDiet – Try and stay away from foods or drinks that are high in sugar.
Keep Up With Oral Hygiene – Stay on top of your oral hygiene with brushing and flossing atleast twice a day. This will help prevent plaque buildup that causes decay.
Use a Toothpaste With Fluoride – Using a toothpaste that containsfluoridecan help preventtooth decay.Use Mouthwash–Mouthwash can help rinse away bacteria,and if the wash contains fluoridethis can help prevent cavities.

Knowing what you can do to help prevent cavities can help you avoid many trips to the dentist. Takingcare of our teeth is very important,and can help avoid dental issues. Always practice good oral hygienehabits to keep your teeth and mouth feeling great.

At our office we discuss what patients are doing at home to help prevent decay. Our staff provides tipsand tricks tohelp our patients keep their teeth looking great. Taking care of your teeth and gums isimportant, and can avoid serious issues from developing. If you have not been to our office for yourregular dental exam, we encourage you to schedule your appointment.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment ?

If you are looking for a dentist near you for your regular dental exam, we’re here to help. Our office hasstate of the art technology and equipment, and we always provide the highest level of service to all ofour patients.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact us today, and our friendly staff will be happy to assistyou.

November 26, 2021November 15, 2021 by Admin

If you have teeth that are decayed, injured, or missing you may require a dental restoration. Common types of dental restorations include crowns, fillings, implants, dentures, and bridges. Never hesitate to call the dentist if you have an issue with your tooth. In many cases our team can save your tooth with a restoration before the tooth damage progresses. It is always important to address any issues with your teeth promptly, or more serious complications may develop.

What Are Dental Restorations?

Dental restorations are various ways your dentist can help restore your teeth. If you are missing parts of your tooth, have an injury, or decay, restorations can help restore your tooth and prevent further damage. If you have a portion of your tooth missing due to decay, or have an old restoration that is in need of replacement, dental restorations can help fix these issues.

Following a good oral hygiene routine at home can help keep your teeth and mouth healthy and prevent decay. We recommend attending your regular exams twice a year to ensure your teeth and mouth look healthy. During your regular visits our doctor will check for cavities, and make sure we don’t see any serious issues.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Restorations?

Fillings: Fillings are the most common type of dental restoration and can help save teeth from decay. There are many filling types from tooth colored composite fillings, to silver amalgam, and composite fillings. Depending on the size of the cavity and location, will determine what type of filling material is used.
Crowns: Crowns are a cap that is placed over a tooth. Crowns restore the shape and size of a tooth, and are matched to blend in with your natural teeth. Crown are used with dental implants, or after a root canal to restore the functionality of a tooth.
Bridges: Bridges are false teeth and help to bridge the gap for missing teeth. Bridges are used along side crowns, and cement is used to permanently secure the bridge into place.
Dental Implants: Dental Implants are similar to a screw that is placed into the jaw. Implants are posts that are made of titanium and attached to a connector or abutment. The implant is then covered with a crown. Implants are permanent and are highly durable, lasting upwards of 15 years.
Dentures: Dentures are made of acrylic resin combined with metal and are a removable replacement for missing teeth. If you still have some of your natural teeth, partial dentures can be used to help bridge the gap and give a natural look.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Restorations?

Dental restorations provide many benefits and help restore your smile. If you are missing teeth or have decay, and are looking to get that perfect smile back, contact Rivers Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to help. Dental restorations can help you speak and eat easier, and give you a smile that restores your confidence.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Restorations?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental restorations contact Rivers Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in dental restorations, and love to help patients get the smile of their dreams. Your oral health is important to us, and we make our patients a priority, and always have your best interests in mind. Let our team get you on the road to a great smile!

To schedule your appointment with us contact Rivers Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

August 25, 2021August 15, 2021 by Admin

If you have stained, chipped, or uneven teeth, veneers can help transform your teeth into a beautiful white smile. Veneers make teeth look uniform, and are bonded to your teeth using a cement material. There are a few different types of veneers, and to determine which type of veneer is best for you depends on the condition of your teeth. The two main types of veneers used today are composite and porcelain veneers.

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are similar to porcelain veneers, and help with chips, gaps, or length. The process for applying composite veneers is quicker and can be done in just one visit. Composite veneers cost less compared to porcelain veneers, but also do not last as long. The average lifespan for composite veneers is 4-8 years.

Composite veneers are more easily fixed compared to porcelain veneers if a patient has a chip or crack. During your visit, your teeth are prepared and the resin material is added to your teeth. We then cure the area and polish your teeth, leaving you with a beautiful smile. The composite material matches the color and shade of your teeth giving you a natural looking smile.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are made out of durable ceramic and are easily customized to best fit your teeth. This type of veneer is also great for correcting chips, gaps, or uneven teeth. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are applied to the outer surface of your teeth. This type of veneer does require at least two visits to our office.

During the procedure we prepare your teeth by removing a thin layer. Impressions are taken and sent out to a lab. Temporary veneers are placed while you wait for your permanent veneers to be fabricated. When you return for your second appointment the veneers are bonded to your teeth, leaving you with a beautiful white smile.

Porcelain veneers are very durable and do last longer than composite veneers. On average, porcelain veneers last between 10-15 years. Porcelain veneers have less risk of chipping or breaking. If you do suffer damage to your porcelain veneers this requires the entire veneer to be replaced. Veneers catch light just like our natural teeth, and really give patients a natural look. Porcelain veneers are stain resistant, and stay bright white once they are applied. Porcelain veneers do cost more compared to composite veneers, but this is because the placement and process takes longer.

Which Type of Veneer is Best for Me?

When choosing the best type of veneer our team will begin with a detailed consultation. Depending on the severity of your teeth and work needed, will determine which type of veneer is best for you. Our team will listen to your goals, and discuss our recommendations for treatment. We want our patients to understand the differences between veneers, how long they last, and the benefits of each type available before making their decision.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Veneers?

If you are looking for a dentist near you that specializes in cosmetic dentistry, Rivers Family & Cosmetic Dentistry can help. Our doctors have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, and love to help patients get that perfect smile they have always wanted. Let us help you restore your confidence, and be proud to speak in front of others. Veneers can restore your smile and give you bright white natural looking teeth.

To schedule your cosmetic consultation with us, contact Rivers Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

March 12, 2021March 1, 2021 by Admin

Dental bridges help to bridge the gap between one or more missing teeth. Bridges have one or more crowns or implants on either side of the gap and false teeth in-between them. If you have a gap caused by a missing tooth and that gap is embarrassing, a bridge may be right for you. Bridges are typically made from porcelain material, and this looks natural and blends in with your other teeth.

There are many different types of bridges available. Depending on how many teeth are missing, and if you have natural teeth on both sides will help decide what type of bridge is recommended.

Types of Dental Bridges

Traditional Bridge

A traditional bridge is a type of bridge with two anchoring crowns on either side of the replacement tooth. This is the most popular type of bridge, and is used when the gap has natural teeth on both sides.

Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth. This type of bridge is not used as much anymore, and it not as common as the other options. Cantilever bridges tend to put too much pressure on other teeth and this can cause damage.

Maryland Bonded Bridge

This type of bridge has metal or porcelain wings, and these are bonded to the existing teeth. Maryland bridges are made out of porcelain or porcelain fused to metal.

Implant Supported Bridge

This type of bridge is similar to the traditional dental bridge, but is supported by a dental implant. The implant is inserted into the jaw and the bridge is attached above the gum line. This type of bridge has an advantage over the other types and helps to prevent bone loss. Implant supported bridges are the most stable compared to other bridge options. Surgery is required to insert the implant and does take longer.

What Are the Advantages With Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge offers an effective solution for tooth replacement. Bridges are aesthetically pleasing and help restore mouth function.
Helps to maintain structure in the mouth and hold teeth in place to reduce shifting and bite issues.
Helps to reduce bone loss and maintains facial structure.
Is comfortable in the mouth and feels like a natural tooth.
Does not require removal for cleaning. Bridges should be cleaned just like natural teeth with brushing and flossing daily.

Looking To Find Out More?

If you are interested in finding out if a bridge is right for you, scheduling a consultation in our office is the first step. Dental bridges are affordable and a reliable solution for missing teeth. Let us help you get that perfect smile!

To schedule your consultation please contact our office, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

December 21, 2020December 21, 2020 by Admin

A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that places a cap over a tooth or dental implant. Crowns help keep the underlying tooth from breaking apart, and can be used to help fix an area on a tooth that is broken. There are different types of crowns available to patients, and depending on the severity of the tooth will determine which type of crown is best. Crowns are typically made of hard materials such as porcelain or ceramic, but can also be made of gold, resin, or stainless steel. They can be made to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth and blend in nicely.

Pros of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns improve your appearance, and can help correct any cosmetic issues in the mouth. There are many benefits to dental crowns, and crowns are commonly used today.

Crowns are used to replace large or worn out fillings in the teeth
Restore dental implants
Restore cracked, injured, or damaged teeth
Correct discoloration or alignment
Reshape your teeth
Keep cracked or damaged teeth from breaking down further
Protect the underlying tooth after a root canal
Crowns are durable and last for years

Cons of Dental Crowns

With any dental procedure there are always some disadvantages patients should consider. In some cases, crowns may need to be repaired or replaced. This is not common but does happen occasionally. During a crown procedure the tooth has to be filed down to ensure the crown can be securely placed. If a crown is not fitted properly there is risk that it can fall out, or allow bacteria to enter underneath the crown. Patients may become more sensitive to hot or cold after their crown is placed. Our office typically recommends a sensitive toothpaste to help with this issue.

If patients ever have an issue with a crown we encourage them to contact our office right away. Leaving a damaged crown untreated can lead to further issues or complications. Overall, crowns are extremely helpful in preserving teeth, and give patients a beautiful natural white smile. The benefits of crowns definitely outweigh the risks.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental crowns, or if you have a damaged or discolored tooth, a dental crown may be the right solution. Our team is available to help you take the next step towards that perfect smile.

To schedule your consultation with our team contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!