Category: Cosmetic Dentistry | Merrillville Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Why Should I Get a Dental Bridge?

December 6, 2022 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.

How to Choose the Right Dentist for Dental Implants?

November 4, 2022February 28, 2022 by Admin

When you decide to invest in dental implants to restore your smile, you want to make sure you find the perfect dentist. Quality dentistry you can count on is important to ensure your implant procedure is successful.

There are many things to look out for when choosing a dentist in your area. Dentists should have proper training and years of experience in implant dentistry. It is important that the dentist you choose is heavily involved in continuing education. This ensures they are staying on top of the latest trends and techniques available in the dental industry. If you need a source or list of dentists in your area, you can visit the American Academy of Implant Dentistry website to locate an implant expert.

What Are Tips To Consider When Choosing My Dentist?

Complete research on your own and find out what services your dentist offers, and how many years they have been treating patients.
Check on their continuing education experience to ensure your dentist is providing the highest level of care and technology to all patients.
Research or ask questions about the dentist’s experience and background on implant dentistry, and how many patients they have treated successfully.
Ask friends or neighbors that have had implant surgery, and have them provide feedback on the procedure and recovery process.
Look for a full-service practice that can handle the entire process from start to finish. You don’t want to have to visit multiple offices when you are going through an extensive process like dental implant surgery.
Talk to your dentist about sedation options and what may work best for you. It is important to feel comfortable about the dental implant process, and your dentist should want to help choose the best option for sedation that works for you.

At Idlewild Family Dentistry, we are a full-service practice, and our passion is restoring smiles for our patients. If you are unhappy with your smile, or have broken or cracked teeth, our team can help. We have years of experience in implant dentistry, and we love to help patients restore their confidence with a brand-new smile.

Don’t live with a smile that causes you to be embarrassed around others. Implants offer a permanent solution, and can last a lifetime if cared for properly. Dental implants are durable, and can function just like our natural teeth.

Looking for a Dental Implant Specialist in Your Area?

If you are interested in finding out more about how dental implants can benefit you, contact Idlewild Family Dentistry today. Our staff would love to welcome you to our practice, and help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Dental implants are a big decision and can be life changing. Let our doctors get you started with our dental implant consultation process today.

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

Are Porcelain Veneers Better Than Composite Veneers?

December 30, 2021 by Admin

If you have chipped, cracked, stained, or uneven teeth and are embarrassed to speak around others, veneers can transform your smile. Veneers can make your teeth look natural and the process is easy and minimally invasive. The veneers are bonded to your teeth using a cement material and little preparation is required. The two common types of veneers used today are porcelain and composite veneers. Both materials can correct imperfections and match the shade of your natural teeth.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are durable and made out of ceramic. This material is easily customized to fit your teeth and is great for correcting chips, gaps, or uneven teeth. The thin shells of porcelain are applied to the outer surface of your teeth, and the process typically only requires two office visits.

During the veneer procedure, we gently prepare your teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel. This helps the material to bond to your teeth. Our team will take impressions of your teeth and these are sent out to a lab. We can place temporary veneers while we wait for your permanent veneers to be fabricated. When you return for your second appointment, we will bond the veneers to your teeth and restore your smile.

Porcelain veneers tend to be more durable and last longer compared to composite veneers. On average, porcelain veneers last between 10-15 years and have less risk for breaking or chipping. We do recommend patients be careful with their porcelain veneers. If a veneer is damaged, the entire veneer must be replaced. Porcelain veneers look natural and are stain-resistant. They do tend to cost more compared to composite veneers, and this is because both placement and the overall process are more time-consuming.

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are similar to porcelain veneers and also help to correct gaps, chips, or uneven length. The overall process for composite veneers is a lot faster, and can be completed in just one appointment. Composite veneers are durable, but not as durable as porcelain veneers, and may not last as long. On average, composite veneers can last between 4-8 years and cost less compared to porcelain veneers.

If your composite veneers are damaged the composite material is easier to fix compared to porcelain veneers. During the composite veneer process, we prepare your teeth by cleaning the surface to ensure the veneer can bond properly to the tooth. The composite resin material is added to your teeth, and the area is cured. We then polish the teeth leaving you with a brand-new smile.

Which Type of Veneer Is Best for Me?

When choosing the best type of veneer, we will begin with a detailed consultation to examine your teeth. The veneer used will depend on the severity of the correction required and the work that is needed to restore your smile. Our team will educate you on the different types of veneers and the benefits of each to help you make the best decision.

What Are the Benefits of Veneers?

Veneers look and feel natural and comfortable.
There is little preparation required for veneers.
Veneers can be placed in only two appointments.
Veneers can help correct cracks, chips, or uneven teeth.
Veneers can close gaps between teeth.
Veneers are durable and stain-resistant.
Confidence is increased and self-esteem restored.
Veneers are low maintenance.
Veneers cost less compared to other cosmetic treatments.

Ready To Find Out More About Dental Veneers?

If you have cracked, chipped, or an uneven smile and are looking for a solution, then veneers may be what you are looking for. Veneers are cost-efficient compared to other solutions and require little preparation. Our team at Merrillville Family & Cosmetic Dentistry and help you achieve the smile you have always wanted with our cosmetic services.

At Merrillville Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we create a welcoming and friendly environment for our patients, and our treatment rooms are equipped with the latest technology. Let our team help you feel comfortable talking and smiling around others again with our cosmetic services.

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