Integrity Family Dentist Blog

How Long Can a Smile Makeover Take?

April 1, 2024

A smile makeover is a great way to improve the aesthetic, form and function of the smile for those that have unhealthy teeth and/or gums. The process involves anywhere from one to multiple procedures, depending on the patient's desires and goals. The number of procedures tends to dictate how long the entire process can take.

How long does a smile makeover take?

Outlined below is an overview of the smile makeover process, which includes how long the process can take.

Smile makeover

The smile makeover process typically involves multiple procedures; however, there are some patients that only require or desire one procedure. These procedures aim to improve the overall aesthetics of the mouth, as well as the form and function. Once a smile makeover is complete, patients should expect to smile confidently, chew naturally and speak normally.

Outlined below are a few smile makeover procedures that can be considered.

Gum reshaping procedures using laser or cosmetic dentistry
Teeth straightening through clear aligners or traditional braces
Tooth reshaping through dental bonding, fillings, dental crowns or veneers
Stain removal procedures, through teeth whitening sessions, dental bonding or dental veneer placement
Tooth replacement using dental implants or bridges

Depending on the patient's desires and goals, the general dentist may recommend one procedure or multiple over the course of a few months or weeks.

The process

When considering a smile makeover, most people want to know how long the process will take so that they can set expectations. Upon a consultation with a general dentist, the patient will likely be given a rough estimate of how long the process may take. However, there are a few general guidelines that most patients can consider when looking into a smile makeover. These guidelines are outlined below.

Patients that want a quick transformation may only require a simple procedure such as dental bonding or teeth whitening. Dental bonding can be used to cover imperfections or abnormalities, and the procedure does not extend past one appointment. Teeth whitening, on the other hand, may be able to be completed in just one appointment or multiple, over the span of a few months.

In other instances, patients visit their general dentist looking for an extreme smile makeover, which may consist of teeth straightening or tooth replacement. Teeth straightening may take anywhere from six months to one year, depending on the desired outcome. If a bridge is chosen, tooth replacement can be done in a few weeks; however, if dental implants are the preferred choice, the patient should expect a timeline of up to six months.

Additional contributing factors

In some scenarios, there are other factors that determine how long the smile makeover process may take. Individuals that are in good overall health will likely experience a better process, sometimes, the process might even go quicker. Additionally, those that practice good oral hygiene will ensure that their teeth and gums remain healthy throughout the smile makeover process, which can ensure efficient and timely results.

Get started with a smile makeover!

A smile makeover is a great way to transform teeth and gums that are in bad shape. Different procedures can be used to improve the aesthetic, form and function of the mouth based on the patient's desire and goals. Working with a general dentist is the best place to start when considering a smile makeover. An evaluation can be done to determine how long the process might take, which can be helpful during the consideration process.

Request an appointment here: https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/ or call Integrity Family Dental at (303) 337-3000 for an appointment in our Denver office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Smile Makeover in Denver, CO.

The Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

March 27, 2024

Dental implants are an increasingly popular choice for individuals with missing or damaged teeth. They offer a variety of benefits over traditional alternatives. However, they can also come with challenges, and not everyone will benefit from the procedure. This article will explore the pros and cons of dental implants to help you make an informed decision about whether they are the right treatment option for you and your smile’s health.

The pros of dental implants

1. Improved appearance

When people have missing or damaged teeth, it...

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How To Make Your Dental Implants Last Longer

March 19, 2024

Dental implants are long-lasting, permanent tooth replacements. They are a popular choice among patients for their durability and ability to look and feel like natural teeth. However, dental implants are an investment, and they should be cared for as such. Follow the tips below to help extend the life span of your implants and prevent implant failure.

5 tips for looking after dental implants

1. Practice good dental hygiene

Twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and regular dental checkups are integral to caring for dental implants....

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The Benefits of Choosing Dental Implants Over Dentures

March 11, 2024

Getting dental implants as a replacement for removable dentures can be a rewarding move. These restorations are stable and lasting. You can smile, laugh, eat, and speak without worrying that they will slip out of your mouth. Here are the benefits of getting dental implants over removable dentures.

Improves appearance and oral health

Dental implants are effective in restoring teeth. Unlike removable restorations, implants do not wiggle or slip out. The fusion of the titanium rods and the jawbone result in stability and strength. The implants...

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Determining Which Type of Dental Implant Is Right for You

March 4, 2024

Many types of dental implants are available. There are also many ways to attach them to your jawbone and gums. Working with your dentist can determine the right implants. Here are the different types of dental implants that are right for your dental needs.

The types of dental implants

These restorations have titanium rods that the dentist inserts into the jawbone. The rods will stay underneath the gumline and fuse with the jawbone. It will take about nine months for the healing and fusion...

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Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

March 1, 2024

Dental implants are an effective tooth replacement solution. With the help of their titanium rods and screws, implants are the most durable and long-lasting option you can choose. However, with its process being somewhat lengthy and invasive, we must ensure you are an ideal candidate.

The ideal candidate for dental implants is healthy enough to recover from minor oral surgery. Their jawbone should also be thick enough to hold implants in place.

Determining your eligibility for dental implants

Many patients are thinking about getting dental implants. Let us take a look at a few of the things that a dentist goes over when evaluating a patient’s eligibility.

1. Missing teeth

Implants are used to replace missing teeth, so the ideal candidate for implants has one or more missing teeth. When combining dental implants with restorations, they become implant-supported dentures, crowns, or bridges, all of which offer a natural appearance. For patients who need to save on costs, dentists often recommend combining implants with restorations used to replace multiple teeth.

2. Being over 18

Implants are usually not recommended for children or teenagers who have lost one or more of their teeth. At this point, their jawbones are still developing, so they are better off exploring more traditional options, which the dentist can review during an appointment. The jawbone typically stops growing around the age of 20. Adults can get implants at any point in life, though, and dentists often recommend them for missing teeth because they preserve bone tissues in the jaw.

3. Decent overall and dental health

The ideal candidate for dental implants has decent health. They are healthy enough to recover from surgical procedures and are free of chronic conditions, like diabetes and heart disease, that can hinder the recovery process.

Having a health issue like diabetes does not automatically disqualify a patient from getting implants, however. They simply need to be evaluated individually to determine if it is safe to proceed with this process.

Patients are also screened for dental issues that can increase the risk of complications, like gum disease. Such issues are typically treated before proceeding with the installation of implants.

4. No dependency on drugs, alcohol, and tobacco

Drinking or using tobacco products regularly slows down the healing process, which increases the risk of complications developing after implants have been placed. Dentists typically talk to their patients about such habits during the evaluation period. Patients need to be willing to give up these habits during the recovery period to reduce their risk of complications.

5. Adequate jawbone thickness

To qualify for implants, patients need to have enough bone tissues in their jaw to hold implants in place. Not having the needed bone density is not an automatic dealbreaker, though, because bone grafts can be used to thicken a patient's jawbone.

However, bone grafts do increase the length of the process. The patient needs to be healed from the graft before being cleared for implants, which can take up to three months.

Explore dental implants

Do you need to replace one or more missing teeth? Call or visit our Denver clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist to explore treatment options.

Request an appointment here: https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/ or call Integrity Family Dental at (303) 337-3000 for an appointment in our Denver office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Denver, CO.

Cosmetic Dentist Procedure Options for Your Smile Makeover

February 1, 2024

If you find yourself hiding your smile due to imperfections on your teeth, a meeting with the general dentist for cosmetic dentist treatments can transform your smile. Whether you wish your teeth were straighter and whiter with no flaws, there are different dental procedures available to transform your smile. This article covers a few of the procedures available for a smile makeover treatment.

Cosmetic dentist options

Cosmetic dental options are meant to improve the appearance of the teeth by correcting dental issues like stains and discoloration, broken or chipped teeth, worn enamel, gaps between teeth and unevenly-sized teeth. Although the treatments are termed elective, they also have restorative benefits to improve quality of life. The following are a few of the dental procedures available for a smile makeover.

Dental beneers

Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain material that are bonded to the surface of the teeth to enhance their appearance. To place veneers, the cosmetic dentist will scrape off a thin layer of the teeth enamel. Afterward, they will attach the veneers using dental adhesives. Veneers are customized to look like natural teeth. They are typically used to mask flaws on the teeth or as an instant teeth-straightening treatment to cover gaps between teeth.

Inlays and onlays

Inlays and onlays are sometimes called indirect fillings. They are fabricated in a dental lab and are used when a tooth has suffered mild to moderate decay that cannot be repaired with a regular filling. Inlays and onlays can be used to provide additional support to the teeth and restore the tooth's shape, as well as prevent additional damages or decay. Inlays are used when the cusps are intact, while onlays are used when the cusp or a larger part of the tooth is damaged, but the damage is not bad enough to require a crown.

Composite bonding

Dentists can use composite bonding to repair a discolored, decayed or damaged tooth. During the process, the general dentist will remove the decay and apply composite resin to the tooth's surface. The material will be adjusted so the shape matches the teeth. Finally, they will harden the material with a unique high-intensity light. Compared to other cosmetic dental options, composite bonding is one of the most affordable options available.

Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular treatments. Professional teeth whitening can improve the appearance of the teeth. The process eliminates stains and discoloration from the teeth to restore their luster and brightness. For the best outcome, the dentist will perform dental cleaning before whitening the teeth.

Results of a teeth whitening treatment is not a permanent, especially if teeth-staining foods and drinks make up a greater part of one’s meal. However, the results achievable from professional teeth whitening last longer than over-the-counter options, and occasional touch-ups should be enough to keep the teeth looking good.

Final note

A general dentist can help you improve your smile drastically using multiple cosmetic dentist treatments. First, they will evaluate your smile and determine the best way to achieve the desired results. To get started, contact the dental office to book an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/ or call Integrity Family Dental at (303) 337-3000 for an appointment in our Denver office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist in Denver, CO.

Common Treatments Offered by Preventive Dentistry

December 1, 2023

Preventive dentistry aims to keep the mouth healthy by preventing problems rather than waiting to fill a cavity when the patient feels pain or only addressing enamel erosion after teeth become sensitive. These services may include a deep cleaning of the teeth and other treatments that can only be performed by a licensed dentist.

3 common preventive dentistry treatments

Many patients may not understand the importance of general dental visits when it comes to oral health. Preventive dentistry involves any service that aids the patient in avoiding cavities, disease, or other oral health issues.

While every patient is unique and may need different treatments from time to time, there are several services that all patients need on a regular basis in addition to personal oral care routines at home. Consider the three following common dentistry treatments as components of a strong preventive care plan.

1. Oral exams

Perhaps most importantly, visiting a general dentist at least twice a year is of paramount importance to maintaining good dental health. The dentist examines the patient's teeth and gums, notes any problem spots, and takes X-rays to determine if there are cavities, signs of oral cancer, or other issues lurking beneath the gumline. It is a good idea to establish a baseline when the patient is not struggling with oral health problems.

2. Fluoride treatments

The American Dental Association recommends that patients at high risk for cavities take advantage of a safe and effective treatment commonly offered in dental practices: topical fluoride. Fluoride treatments are easily affordable and can strengthen the enamel in addition to reducing the risk of decay.

3. Teeth cleaning appointments

Patients in good health should schedule preventive dentistry cleaning appointments at least twice a year, and patients who are prone to gum and tooth problems may need to visit more often. Along with the oral exam and fluoride treatment, the cleaning gives the dentist the opportunity to inspect the patient's mouth and make additional preventive recommendations for care at home. Cleaning the teeth eliminates large amounts of cavity-causing plaque before it turns into tartar, removes bacteria that can cause gum disease, and boosts the patient's systemic health.

What is the patient's part in preventive care?

There are many steps a patient can take every day at home to preserve oral health and care for teeth, gums, and other soft tissues of the mouth. In between dental appointments, a patient trying to boost dental health could brush twice a day and floss at least once a day, avoid sugary foods, and use a mouthwash after cleaning the teeth.

Conclusion

Preventive dentistry treatments involve taking a proactive approach to managing oral health. These services, such as oral cancer screenings, routine exams and X-rays, regular cleanings of the teeth, and fluoride treatments go a long way to ensuring the long-term dental and systemic health of the patient. Patients who want to protect teeth should address these concerns with a licensed dentist who can help develop a sustainable preventive care plan for oral health.

Request an appointment here: https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/ or call Integrity Family Dental at (303) 337-3000 for an appointment in our Denver office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Preventative Dental Care in Denver, CO.

The FAQ’s of Gold Dental Crowns

November 1, 2023

Gold dental crowns are a type of restoration that sits over the entirety of a severely decayed or damaged tooth. The purpose of these restorations is to provide much-needed support and protection to weakened teeth. Today, dental crowns come in a variety of materials, but once upon a time, gold was one of just a few options from which patients could choose. It prevails today as a standard material because of its durability, one factor that heavily influences the type of restorations people get.

The most frequently asked questions regarding gold dental crowns

Gold dental crowns are a contradiction in and of themselves. Thanks to the addition of other materials, gold crowns are durable, making them the best material choice for restorations on the back teeth. However, because of the inherently soft nature of gold, it does not harm the adjacent or opposing teeth as many tougher restorations do. While for aesthetic reasons gold is not the choice material for patients, many dentists continue to recommend it. If a dentist does recommend it, the patient may have several questions before agreeing to a gold crown.

What are the advantages of gold dental crowns?

Aside from appearances, gold crowns offer several advantages with which other types of restoration materials cannot compete. Some top advantages of choosing gold over other silver, amalgam, porcelain, or another material include the following:

Longevity – gold crowns last for decades
Perfect fit – other types of materials tend to shrink over time
Better overall health – the body tolerates gold better than any other material
Gentle on other teeth – gold does not wear the opposing teeth
Stain-proof – gold does not stain or become rough over time

Are there disadvantages to getting gold crowns?

There are two major disadvantages of choosing gold over another type of filling material. The first is appearances. Gold restorations stand out and make it obvious that a person had dental work done. The second drawback is cost. Gold is an expensive metal. By that, gold dental crowns are expensive.

What is the lifespan of a gold crown?

With the right care, gold crowns can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. However, several factors affect a gold crown’s longevity, including the health of the natural tooth being covered, whether one smokes or drinks alcohol, how frequently one brushes their teeth, and the types of food one eats, to name a few.

How much do gold crowns cost?

The cost of gold dental crowns depends on several factors, including the metal’s current market rate, the size of the restoration needed, and a dentist’s service rates. Patients should prepare to spend as much as $2,500 per gold crown. With insurance, that price may decrease by half.

What other materials are in gold dental crowns?

Alone, gold is not strong enough to serve as a dental restoration. For this reason, dental labs combine metal with other, more durable materials. Materials commonly combined with gold to make crowns include nickel, palladium, and chromium. Each of these materials helps to increase the strength of restorations and reduce their cost.

Conclusion

Though not a favored option, gold dental crowns offer several benefits that restorations made from other materials cannot offer. Patients who need restorations — especially on the back teeth — should consult with a dentist regarding the benefits of gold crowns.

Request an appointment here: https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/ or call Integrity Family Dental at (303) 337-3000 for an appointment in our Denver office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges in Denver, CO.

How Dental Veneers Can Boost Your Confidence

October 1, 2023

If you are not happy with your smile, dental veneers could be just what you need to feel good about yourself. This restorative approach can transform the structure and appearance of a tooth. You do not have to be embarrassed any longer when you look in the mirror. Your dentist can repair even the most challenging cosmetic issues.

Description of dental veneers

In dentistry, a veneer is a thin porcelain shell that attaches to the front of a tooth. Often, the dentist will place it on a front tooth that has visible damage or flaws. The dentist can make a veneer to closely match the size, shape and color of surrounding healthy teeth. This helps ensure that it does not stand out. By doing this, the veneer is virtually invisible, making it appear as though the patient’s natural teeth have no blemishes.

Taking care of unsightly issues

Whether by accident or by poor habits, certain unwanted conditions can arise with teeth. People who do not keep up with good oral hygiene habits of daily brushing and flossing will likely soon see yellow or brown stains on their teeth. Teeth can chip, fracture or crack because of decay. These problems can arise from hard blows to the face, either from an accident or injury from physical activity. Dental veneers can cover up these cosmetic concerns and restore the person’s smile.

Happy to open up again

People who have discolored or misshapen teeth may feel self-conscious about speaking to other people. Tooth damage can have the same effect. It is common for a person to have low self-esteem if their teeth do not look the way they want. Porcelain veneers can help the person once again feel good about smiling and speaking to people at work, in social situations and in everyday life.

Meeting new people

A smile is one of the first things people will notice about someone during a first encounter. Individuals with significant tooth dysfunctions and damage can have a difficult time interacting with new acquaintances. Going on a date or having a job interview can be a scary prospect for a person with broken front teeth or abnormally shaped teeth. Fortunately, dental veneers are an effective way to solve these problems. This treatment can turn a negative first impression into a memorable one.

Worth the time and effort

Getting dental veneers usually requires only one or two visits to the dentist. At the first appointment, the dentist will remove some of the affected tooth’s enamel and reshape it so the veneer fits properly. Meanwhile, the dentist will make the veneer and attach it using cement and a light to accelerate the hardening process. The dentist tests the fit and makes any necessary adjustments.

A whole new you

Discover the mouth and smile you have always wanted. Find a cosmetic dentist near you and get dental veneers today. You can stop avoiding other people and show off your teeth with excitement. Contact your dentist and make an appointment to get started.

Request an appointment here: https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/ or call Integrity Family Dental at (303) 337-3000 for an appointment in our Denver office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates in Denver, CO.