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Ohio Cosmetic Dentistry:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cosmetic and restorative dentistry?
In
order to understand cosmetic dentistry you must first understand
one basic principle; something must work right before it can
look good. Therefore, the process of improving aesthetics starts
by preventing
the breakdown of teeth. They will last longer by controlling
the forces that are causing the breakdown to occur. With this problem
solved it is then possible to enhance the appearance of teeth
and
achieve optimal dental health with a treatment plan that is specifically
design for you. Cosmetic dentistry combines advanced techniques
and materials to provide results that are as natural looking as
they
feel.
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What makes a good cosmetic and restorative dentist?
Cosmetics in
dentistry is more than just how teeth look. A cosmetic dentistry
combines art, science, and technology to create a restoration
that is both aesthetic and functional. A good aesthetic dentist
must think like an artist, understand science, and have the
technical skills of a master.
Before choosing a cosmetic dentistry look at their education and
credentials and do not be afraid to ask questions. Be certain that
the person you choose has specific training and expertise, not
just someone who uses the term ‘cosmetic’ in an ad.
Ask to see photos and/or testimonials of actual patients, not just
generic photos that can be purchased and passed on as their own
work. Speak with other patients who have had similar treatment
to discuss their experience and results. This can be a life altering
experience, so talk to the dentist and their staff to make sure
you are where you want to be. Do not let anyone talk you into doing
anything, this must be something you want!
Click
here to learn
more.
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What can I do for discolored teeth?
If the only concern with your
smile is the color of your teeth, there are several whitening
options available for you. We offer
both in office, Zoom Whitening, and take home whitening. After careful
consideration an informed decision can be made for which option
is best for you.
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What can I do for uneven gums?
There are several solutions for
this problem, but the most common is the use of a
laser. When looking at your smile, the gums are just as important
as the teeth. Dr.
Robinson is able to use a laser to sculpt the gums while still providing
a comfortable experience and rapid healing.
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How can I replace missing teeth?
It is not necessary to live with
missing teeth any longer. With the advanced techniques and materials
available today we are
able to offer many options, including bridges, implants, and
natural looking partial or full dentures. A complete set of
teeth will not only improve your self-esteem, but also increase
the
longevity of your natural teeth by removing the stress placed
on them. In addition, you will notice improved speech, digestion,
and taste.
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I don’t like my smile, can you help?
As unique as your smile,
so is your reason for not liking it, but we are certain we can
help. Dr. Robinson is very trained and
experienced in determining key factors to enhancing any smile.
Some key factors are:
The best way to determine your needs and wants is for you to come
in and talk to us. During a consultation we can take close-up photos
and molds of your teeth to help you identify those areas you would
like to improve.
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What should I know about amalgam or mercury fillings?
Amalgam,
or “silver”, fillings are the most commonly
placed filling material according to the ADA. Since the largest
component of amalgam is mercury, not silver, they should be referred
to as mercury fillings. More than 78% of dentist surveyed by the
ADA considered amalgam the material of choice because it is cheap,
easy to place, and it’s longevity.
Dr. Robinson chose years ago to stop using amalgam for the following
reasons:
- Amalgam fillings weaken the tooth over time by expanding
and fracturing teeth from the inside, similar to splitting
wood with
a wedge.
- The material usually contains about 50% mercury and even
though the ADA has deemed it safe, it is still considered a
toxic and
hazardous material outside the mouth. Several European countries
have banned the use of the material and many states within
the United States are regulated on proper disposal. It is important
to remove the amalgam material with the proper technique to
reduce
the exposure to aerosolized mercury which can be readily absorbed
through the lungs.
- Amalgam fillings are very unesthetic and because
of corrosion typically turn dark with time. There are more
aesthetic and environmentally
safer materials to use. And with these new materials and biological ‘super
glues’ it is possible to predictably bond teeth back
together, virtually restoring them back to their virgin strength
without
the invasiveness of full crowns. In the majority of circumstances,
crowns can be replaced with more conservative techniques. It
is therefore possible to preserve more healthy, remaining tooth
structure.
By intercepting the potential of fracture before experiencing
symptoms of hot/cold sensitivity and biting pain, new conservative
treatments
are preventing the side effects of toothaches and broken teeth.
We are also able to diagnose these problems earlier with the
assistance of fiber optics and camera magnification technologies.
Using a
proactive rather than reactive approach to amalgam replacement
is something many patients have chosen.
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What is full mouth reconstruction?
Full mouth reconstruction entails
restoring teeth, bite, muscles and self esteem back to a natural
looking and feeling condition.
Using computerized technology and an artistic eye, full mouth
reconstruction may be an answer to many of your problems. You
no longer have to feel dissatisfied and uncomfortable with
your smile or suffer from reoccurring headaches and sore jaw muscles.
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What is neuromuscular dentistry and can it relieve headaches or
TMJ pain?
Neuromuscular dentistry is a process that involves the
muscles and nervous innervation of the body to create balance,
function,
and comfort with the correct positioning of the jaw. With neuromuscular
dentistry we can diagnose problems and positively change structures
controlled by the 5th and 7th cranial nerves. Since these nerves
contain 60% of the cranial nerve mass they have a profound effect
on how we feel.
For more information check out our TMJ Information section.
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