Integrity Family Dentist Blog

What Are Veneers Made Of?

May 5, 2022

There are numerous reasons a dentist may recommend veneers to a patient. For some, it is a cosmetic option that results in a whiter, more even smile. For others, veneers can be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth for durable and natural-looking results. This popular treatment option is usually made from either composite resin or porcelain. Understanding each option can help patients make the right decision for their dental health.

Dental veneer materials

Regardless of the chosen material, all dental veneers are crafted into thin coverings that are permanently attached to the front of the affected teeth. Patients can choose between porcelain and composite based on preferences and needs. The same type of care is required for both to maintain durability and overall dental health. All types of dental veneers require:

Careful, consistent brushing and flossing on a daily basis
Routine dental checkups and cleanings every six months
Avoiding foods that can stain the materials, such as beets, red wine, and coffee
Eliminating habits that can damage veneers, such as chewing on foreign objects

Failure to practice proper care can cause porcelain and composite veneers to stain, chip, crack, or come loose.

Porcelain

This type of veneer tends to have the most natural appearance as a finished product, making it a popular choice for both cosmetic and repair treatments. Porcelain, also referred to as ceramic, reflects light naturally and is particularly resistant to staining, making it an excellent long-term solution. In general, porcelain veneers are very strong and can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years with good hygiene and health.

Applying porcelain veneers

First, the dentist will prep the affected teeth by removing the outer enamel layer. Next, impressions are made to create coverings that are customized to fit the patient's unique smile. It can take a few weeks for production so temporary veneers may be placed during this time. Once the veneers are finished, the dentist will permanently bond each covering to each tooth. Finally, the dentist will reshape and polish as needed to achieve the desired results. Due to the nature of the application process, treatment with porcelain veneers is irreversible.

Composite resin

Veneers made of this material can still create a beautiful finished product. However, composite materials are less durable and last only five to seven years. The application process for composite veneers is less invasive and may work well for some patients. In addition, composite resin is much easier to repair than porcelain. With no enamel removal required, a dentist will apply a pliable version of the material to the teeth and then set it with a high-intensity dental light. Then, the veneer is polished and shaped to appear like the natural covering of a healthy tooth.

Conclusion

While there are pros and cons to each option, a dentist can help recommend which material is right for a patient's dental needs. Whether you choose porcelain or composite, you can enjoy a functional and more beautiful smile with dental veneers.

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.

How Does One Become a General Dentist

April 27, 2022

A general dentist is a professional in a position of enormous trust. A dentist’s duties include diagnosing and sometimes treating conditions of the mouth to relieve oral pain, as well as performing prophylactic treatment to prevent dental conditions. Becoming a dentist involves meeting requirements set by the state to obtain a dental license. To get to that point, a person wishing to become a dentist must undergo extensive education and training to receive an advanced degree.

General dentist requirements

It is illegal to practice dentistry without a...

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What if a General Dentist Does Not Treat an Abscessed Tooth

April 20, 2022

A general dentist is frequently called upon to diagnose and treat dental abscesses. Failure to get treatment for this infection can have serious health consequences.

When to seek treatment for an abscess

A tooth is said to be abscessed when a pocket of pus forms due to a bacterial infection. Patients who exhibit symptoms of an abscess should see a dental professional.

Abscess symptoms

People experiencing swelling of the face and fever or difficulty breathing or swallowing should seek immediate medical treatment...

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Ask a General Dentist: Is a Tooth Dead After a Root Canal

April 14, 2022

There is no need to fear if your general dentist has recommended root canal treatment. This dental procedure is performed on millions of patients every year and is similar to a routine filling. It is a beneficial procedure that saves a tooth that has become infected or damaged. Many patients wonder if the tooth is dead after the treatment is completed. The answer to this question lies in understanding the anatomy of a tooth and the root canal process.

Anatomy of a tooth

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What To Ask Your General Dentist When Preparing for a Crown

April 7, 2022

If a general dentist recommends a dental crown, there are a variety of reasons why. Crowns can be used for cosmetic corrections as well as for protection and support. These dental restorations may seem intimidating to those who have never had one, but they do not have to be. Here are some questions to ask a dentist so that the experience can go as smoothly as possible.

Preparing for a crown

Most crowns require two visits to install a permanent version. This first...

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Types of Dental Fillings for Kids Offered by a Kid Friendly Dentist in Denver

April 6, 2022

Choosing a kid-friendly dentist is something many parents are doing nowadays, as there are different types of dental professionals that one can choose from. This type of dental professional is one who has chosen to treat kids, as well as adults, which means they have the skills and knowledge necessary to take care of kids' dental health needs. Ready to learn more about cavities in kids and the types of fillings available to treat them?

How kids get cavities

Wondering how kids get cavities? A kid-friendly dentist is a dental professional who can treat any cavities that a child may have. They can also help parents understand how to prevent cavities, which is important when it comes to having an overall healthy mouth.

The list below includes the two different types of dental fillings that are available to treat cavities in kids.

Amalgam fillings

Amalgam fillings are also known as silver or metal fillings. This type of filling has been used for many years by kid-friendly dentists to fill cavities in people of all ages and they are still one of the more popular types of dental filling materials used by dental professionals today. Parents who choose this type of dental filling choice need to understand that they are very strong, very durable and they are ideal for small to medium cavities. Also, they are often chosen when cavities exist in the back teeth.

Composite resin fillings

Composite resin fillings are also known as tooth-colored fillings. This type of filling is a newer dental filling option and is an option that blends in with the rest of the teeth, making them barely noticeable. This particular type of dental filling is ideal for small cavities. They are only placed on teeth that do not undergo a lot of stress and while they are not quite as strong and durable as silver fillings, they are still a strong dental filling choice.

Preventing cavities in kids

While it is ideal to prevent cavities from forming in kids' teeth in the first place, this is not always possible. Parents can help their kids prevent a cavity diagnosis by making sure they properly brush their teeth at least twice a day and for two minutes each time. Children should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste that is approved by the American Dental Association. As soon as their teeth begin to touch, then they need to also floss at least once a day.

When is the last time your kid was checked for cavities?

Ready to have a kid-friendly dentist check your kids for cavities? It can be difficult for children to brush their teeth as well as they should, which tends to make them more susceptible to being diagnosed with cavities. If they do have a cavity, then you can let the dentist know your preferred type of dental filling. If your child has not been checked for cavities in the last six months, then making an appointment as soon as possible is necessary.

Are you considering using a kid-friendly dentist in the Denver area? Get more information at https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/.

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

A General Dentist Discusses Essentials for Good Oral Health

March 30, 2022

Any general dentist knows that oral health is about more than just strong teeth. It is also a bellwether of overall physical health, which makes maintaining healthy teeth and gums a crucial part of any wellness routine. Showing up for cleanings twice a year is not enough to keep teeth and gums healthy. Patients should always take time to ask questions at the dentist, being sure to address any concerns or uncertainties they may have.

5 things patients can do to maintain good oral health

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Should You Get an Oral Surgeon Referral From a General Dentist

March 23, 2022

A general dentist can provide services ranging from routine cleanings and exams to the detection and diagnosis of periodontal disease. When patients have an oral health condition that requires surgery, the dentist may refer the patient to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for treatment. There are several reasons why it may be necessary to obtain a referral from a general dentist before making an appointment with an oral surgeon.

Health reasons a referral may be required

As part of an exam, a general...

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How Your Health Can Benefit from Regular General Dentist Visits

March 15, 2022

An appointment with a general dentist provides many benefits beyond cleaning the teeth. Oral hygiene is important to help maintain functions like chewing, swallowing, or speaking, but there is also a link between an individual’s overall health and oral health. Routine dental exams support good personal health.

What is the connection between physical health and oral health?

The body is a complex system of many parts working to protect each other and promote optimal functioning. The mouth is the primary gateway to the interior...
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Ask a General Dentist: Is There a Waiting Period After Fluoride

March 8, 2022

If a general dentist recommends fluoride treatments, patients may express concerns about the lasting effects of fluoride. They may also wonder whether eating and drinking are possible immediately afterward. Fortunately, fluoride is one of the easiest dental treatments to undergo with little to no waiting period and great benefits in the long term. Just a few quick aftercare techniques can preserve the fluoride and maintain strong teeth.

Aftercare for fluoride treatments

Fluoride is a mineral that naturally strengthens teeth and helps prevent cavities....
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