Invisalign takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using a custom-made series of aligners created for you and only you. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic that you simply wear over your teeth. Wearing the aligners will gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements Dr. Lee will plan out for you. There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. You simply pop in a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks, until your treatment is complete and you achieve the confident smile that you’ve always wanted. The best part about the whole process is that most people won’t even know you’re straightening your teeth.
Whitening/Bleaching
Over time our teeth tend to become discolored or stained. Whether this is from smoking, coffee, or any other foods, a beautiful smile could be closer than you think. We offer a safe, inexpensive solution to an unsightly smile. Whitening your teeth is a very simple procedure that can be completed in relatively short period of time.
Non-metal Crowns
As we get a little older, our teeth begin to change and are prone to decay. There are many possible reasons for this change in your smile. These reasons can include bruxism(teeth grinding), general decay, cracked fillings, root canals, and many others. If your tooth is beyond repair with a filling material, we may recommend that the best viable option to save the tooth is a full crown. The reasons for this type of restoration in a badly damaged tooth are durability, cosmetic appearance, and overall support of the chewing function. For health and aesthetic reasons we choose to only do non-metal crowns.
Dental Hygiene
In addition to the meticulous cleaning, polishing, and examination of your teeth, we also take the time to help our patients develop proper oral hygiene habits at home. We will evaluate your hygiene techniques and make adjustments to your routine where needed. Our doctors and hygienists will also make suggestions for preventative measures such as dental sealants or nightguards to protect against bruxism and TMJ.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are becoming more popular in todays dental society for a number of reasons. Implants are utilized to offer patients a foundation for new restorative teeth where natural teeth are missing or have been extracted. The implant offers the patient the opportunity to regain normal function of the tooth without being forced to resort to a bridge or a denture.
Benefits
- The new implant will support your teeth firmly and safely.
- Your new implants are aesthetically pleasing.
- You will no longer have pain during talking or eating.
- The dental implant will prevent progressive bone atrophy.
- Implants have a proven scientific basis.
Bonding
A bonding is a composite resin that is used as an alternative to amalgams and veneers. This is an excellent cosmetic option for those patients who do not want the look of silver and do not want the expense of veneers. A bonding is matched to the color of your natural teeth. Bondings can be used on teeth that are decayed, cracked, or stained.
Bridges
A bridge, by definition, is a link or connection between two permanent structures. A dental bridge is very similar in that it attaches the restorative teeth (bridge) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. This bridge acts as your new teeth, closing the gap and restoring your smile. Bridges are often constructed of gold or metal foundations with porcelain fused to the foundation. This ensures that the bridge will support the normal functions of the mouth.
Crown Lengthening
A crown lengthening is often done to allow for restorative dentistry to be achieved. It is also done to improve a smile that shows too much of your gums. During the gum lengthening procedure, we will reshape your gum line to expose more of the natural tooth.
Extractions
During the procedure, the patient will be given a general or local anesthetic. This decision will be determined by the difficulty of the extraction as well as the individual needs of the patient. In the case of an impacted tooth, the gum and overlying bone tissue will be removed to expose the tooth. The dentist will then rock the tooth back and forth to loosen it in the jawbone. The tooth is extracted and sutures may be placed to secure the site. A blood clot will form in the area where the tooth was removed. It is important to be very careful with the site within the first 24-48 hours following extraction.
Inlays/Onlays
Inlays and onlays are sometimes referred to as partial crowns. These partial crowns are utilized when there is still a healthy enamel portion of the tooth. An inlay or onlay is a like a puzzle piece that will be fitted into the remaining portion of the tooth to help increase its strength. This piece is usually crafted out of porcelain or gold, but can also be made of a composite material. We will make the determination as to which restoration will work best in your specific situation.
Oral Cancer Screening
During your dental exam, we will check your entire mouth for any lumps or patches. Screening for early changes in the oral tissue can help detect cancer at a stage when it can be more successfully treated.
When decay occurs below the gumline, it may be necessary to remove a small amount of bone and gum tissue. Your dentist may ask for this procedure before he or she makes a new crown for your tooth.
Root Canal (Endodontics)
Root Canal, or endodontics, is the process of removing the nerves from the roots of a tooth. A root canal is often necessary to save an infected tooth. If an infected tooth is left alone for a long period of time, an abscess can form. An abscess will show up on an x-ray as a dark spot below the apex of the root. This is actually bone loss in the jaw. It is very important to catch this problem before it deteriorates too far.
Scaling and Root Planning
Scaling and root planning often consists of a fine ultrasonic tip being placed between the tooth and gum tissue. This is done to remove any plaque and calculus buildup below the gum line. Once the deposits have been removed, the surface of the root is smoothed. This procedure keeps the area clean and allows the periodontal ligaments to reattach. We may recommend an antibiotic or prescription mouth rinse to help control the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. You can expect to be very comfortable during this procedure and there is rarely any pain following the procedure.
Veneers
Porcelain veneers are extremely thin casings of ceramic that are bonded to the front of the patients tooth to create a new smile. Porcelain veneers are placed over the front of teeth that appear too small or large, slightly discolored, or simply are not cosmetically pleasing to the patient. For many patients, teeth may have chipped, become discolored, or are slightly crooked. For the majority of these patients, porcelain veneers can prove to be the perfect solution.