Posts Tagged ‘smile makeover’

Teeth Whitening
November 24, 2020

How Much Is Teeth Whitening?

by admin / Posted in Dental Care, General Dentistry
Teeth whitening has proven to be one of the most popular treatments in America, with a proliferation of at-home kits, gels, and strips. Professional whitening treatment is also available, but the question remains, what does teeth whitening cost? And is it worth it? In today’s article, we’ll explore the different options that are available on the market and how much they cost. Your journey to a brighter smile starts now!

Professional Teeth Whitening versus At-Home Whitening

First, let’s take a look at the different treatments on the market. 

At-Home Whitening

There are a bevy of options to choose from if you want to whiten your teeth at home. These options include:
  • Whitening Toothpaste. These are used to remove surface stains and gently polish and remove the stains on the teeth. 
  • Over-the-Counter Whitening Strips & Gels. These clear, peroxide-based gels are applied with a small brush to the teeth or are applied using clear plastic strips. These often contain hydrogen peroxide and are used to bleach the teeth. Care must be taken in order to properly bleach the teeth. Results can be seen within a few days and final results are generally sustained for a few months.
  • Whitening Rinses. These are like mouthwashes, in that they freshen breath, reduce dental plaque and gum disease while whitening the teeth. However, this treatment may not be as effective as other over-the-counter treatments. 

Professional Teeth Whitening

When you go to the dentist to get your teeth whitened they often will use a tray-based tooth whitener. These are filled with a gel-like peroxide that then sits in the mouth in order to bleach the teeth.  You can also take advantage of a quick and powerful treatment that involves applying the whitening product directly onto the teeth and then combined with heat, a special light or a laser. Results can be seen within one 30 to 60-minute treatments. Sometimes multiple treatments are needed. This kind of treatment often is the most long-lasting and sometimes can be the most expensive.

The Cost of Different Treatments

When it comes to at-home or over-the-counter treatments they can run as low as a few dollars for a tube of whitening toothpaste, to as much as $40 for an at-home treatment kit. Each kit often will contain enough strips to last about a week or two.  There are also over the counter tray treatments that can cost up to $100. There can be augmented by a custom-fitted tray from your dentist, which will sometimes cost $400 or less. These solutions can be quite cost-effective but they often do not last as long or offer as dramatic of results. They often need a multi-week commitment to their consistent use in order to be effective. This may not work for everyone’s schedule but that is where in-office treatments can help.  When it comes to professional tooth whitening, cost often is the biggest factor to prevent people from going ahead. The average cost of an in-office teeth whitening is $650, but it can climb to $1,000 or more depending on the type of product used and how much your dentist charges.  For most people, this investment pays off. People will often notice the difference after a single treatment. This is because the bleaching ingredient is much stronger than anything that will be available in the store. Generally, those treatments contain 10% peroxide, while professional treatments contain between 25 and 40% hydrogen peroxide.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Teeth Whitening Cost?

Often dental insurances do not cover teeth whitening, as it is considered a cosmetic expense. However many do offer affordable dental plans that may help out with some of the costs. Many dentists will often offer several third-party financing options that can help with the cost of an in-office treatment. If you think that you want to get your teeth whitened, or speak to one of our experts about teeth whitening cost and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
Teeth Whitening
February 24, 2020

Teeth Whitening – Your Complete Guide

by admin / Posted in Dental Care, General Dentistry
Teeth whitening has become a big industry as more and more people want to find ways to make their smiles brighter. There are now so many different options available from state-of-the-art treatments using lasers to at-home teeth whitening kits using bleaching gels. But how do you choose between the many options available? What are the benefits of each method and how effective are they? This guide on teeth whitening will show how each treatment works and the pros and cons of each. With this guide, you can be best informed about how cost-effective each treatment is so you can make the right choice to get whiter teeth.

How to Get White Teeth

There are a number of basic methods in use to whiten teeth today. These include:
  • Using gels, strips, and trays containing a percentage of a special bleach
  • Laser treatment
  • Teeth whitening toothpaste
  • Teeth whitening mouthwash
The best teeth whitening method to choose depends on how much your budget is and how fast you want to see results. Additionally, you must consider how permanent you want the treatment to be and how much discomfort you are willing to go through. Please note that these treatments only work on natural teeth. Things like dentures, fillings, veneers or dental implants will remain the same color.

What Makes Teeth Discolored?

Teeth are generally not naturally bright white. The enamel that coats the teeth is a blueish-white color and is translucent. The dentin — the material beneath the hard enamel — is a yellow color and that shows through the enamel.  The enamel grows thinner as a person ages, so it is natural for teeth to look darker or more yellow as we age. However, there are a number of foods and drinks that are strongly colored and acidic in nature and other factors that can accelerate discoloration. These include:
  • Berries
  • Sauces like curries and tomato sauce
  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Wine
  • Sugary drinks
  • Smoking
  • Braces
While the best way to maintain your smile is to avoid staining them, however, that is always not that simple. You can minimize the staining power of these foods by eating them with foods that prevent tooth staining like cheese, lettuce, celery, carrots, apples, and cauliflower. These foods help clean the teeth through friction and can neutralize the acid that damages the enamel.

In-office Teeth Whitening Treatments

It is prudent to visit your dentist and discuss with them potential teeth whitening options. Their treatments are very effective and they know how to perform them safely and can assist in case of any side effects.  In-office treatments are divided into three general types: Laser teeth whitening, Zoom teeth whitening, and professional bleaching.

Laser teeth whitening

Laser teeth whitening sounds futuristic and dangerous, but it is actually quite simple. Lasers are used to speed up the bleaching effect of a concentrated gel that is applied to the teeth. This makes it the most instant teeth whitening method, but also one of the most expensive. First, a rubber seal is applied around the gums to prevent the bleaching product, likely containing hydrogen peroxide, from bleaching the gums. Then the dentist will shine a laser on your teeth and accelerate the teeth whitening process.  This is an intense teeth whitening process that can give you results after just one visit. It also has the greatest potential for sensitivity after treatment. However, this sensitivity is temporary. Additionally, your dentist can recommend steps to take in case of greater sensitivity.

Zoom teeth whitening

This kind of whitening uses a technology from Philips that uses a powerful LED light to accelerate whitening instead of a laser. This process is less intense, coming with a lower chance for sensitivity but this can mean that you will need to do multiple sessions of about 45 to 60 minutes. Follow this method by an at-home course of teeth whitening treatment to prolong the results.

Professional bleaching

This is the cheapest form of in-office treatment where the dentist will apply professional grade tooth whitening gel via custom trays. This kind of gel is much stronger than the gels available for in-home treatments. This means they can produce much greater results than commercially available kits. The dentist will start by taking an impression of your teeth to create the custom tray. Then, you can go home and use the gels at home. The trays can be left in overnight, which makes it convenient so you don’t have to wear it during the day. Check with your dentist to see what options they have available.

At-home Teeth Whitening Treatments

These at-home kits are best used after a professional treatment to maintain the brightness of your teeth. These treatments include:
  • LED whitening
  • Bleaching trays
  • Teeth whitening strips
  • Whitening toothpaste

LED Whitening

These kits emulate the professional level of LED treatment that is available at an in-office treatment. These come with a tray that sometimes can be molded to fit your teeth, a bleaching gel, and an LED light to activate the bleaching agent.  These may offer good immediate results but they may quickly fade away or require multiple applications.

Bleaching Trays

Over the counter bleaching trays are similar to the LED at-home treatments. They come with an accelerator fluid that is applied directly to the teeth before the gel is used. The treatment can take between five to thirty minutes daily, depending on the strength of the gel.  These treatments will generally require a week to two weeks in order to get better results. Some products require that you combine the beaching trays with products like pens, polishers, and kinds of toothpaste. These combined can create good short-term results. One risk with this kind of treatment is that the whitening kits are not custom fit to your mouth so there is a greater risk of the beaching agent leaking out and burning or blistering other parts of your mouth. Additionally, you may not get the best coverage with these methods.

Teeth Whitening Strips & Toothpastes

These are small plastic strips that are attached to the teeth and are a cleaner and easier way to apply a bleach than gels or trays. Most of the brands generally are required to be placed on the teeth for about 30 minutes and then they are removed, but some even naturally dissolve after the 10-15 minutes of wear.  These can do a good job of brightening your front teeth but they aren’t going to be as effective for the teeth in the back of the mouth. They are a cost-effective method that can be used to produce good results quickly. This is a great solution for quick and painless options if you needed to whiten your teeth in time for a photo shoot. Tooth whitening kinds of toothpaste are good for removing surface stains. These won’t change the natural yellowing that comes with a reduction in enamel. This is also the cheapest option which makes it a very popular option to give your smile a little boost. They can also be used to prolong the results of more powerful treatments.

How Much Does It Cost To Have Your Teeth Whitened?

The cost of teeth whitening depends greatly on the method chosen. You can spend as little as five dollars or less on a tube of teeth whitening toothpaste. Or you can potentially spend much more on in-office laser treatment.  With teeth whitening, what you pay for is what you get. Professional in-office teeth whitening costs are going to be much more than home treatments, but you are gaining the experience and expertise of a trained dentist who can work with you to create a treatment plan that fits with your needs.  Additionally, many dentists offer financing options to help mitigate the cost of treatment. You should also check to see what coverage your dental insurance might provide. If you think you would like to see what tooth whitening treatment is good for you, and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at  (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
February 10, 2020

Invisalign Overview – How Invisalign Works to Straighten Teeth

by admin / Posted in Dental Care, General Dentistry
Many people want to get straighter teeth, but the inconvenience and embarrassment over wearing metal brackets and the discomfort from traditional orthodontic work cause many to put off or rethink that decision. Invisalign presents a great alternative. Invisalign uses nearly invisible aligners to gently move your teeth into position. No metal is used and each aligner is custom made to fit your mouth. They work with a series of trays that gradually shift your teeth into place. Each tray is manufactured to be incrementally straighter than the previous one, generally by only 0.25mm each. Every two weeks, you get a new set of aligners. This slowly moves your teeth into their ideal place. All you have to do is insert the tray! You can forget the old days of uncomfortable and ugly brackets. Invisalign aligners are clear and hardly noticeable which means that they are a perfect option for adults and teens who want to straighten their smile without drawing attention to it.

The Three Steps to Getting a New Smile

Invisalign aligners take three simple steps to acquire.  First, meet with your doctor and get a preview of your new smile. Using a special scanner, your doctor can take a fast and precise 3D scan of your mouth and then map out a treatment plan that is customized for you.  You can also take the smile assessment on the Invisalign website to see if Invisalign is the right option for your needs.  This step is key to setting yourself up for success. Your doctor will ensure that your aligners fit well and they will answer any questions and give you an overview of the treatment. Second, you will begin wearing the aligners and have regular check-ins with your doctor. Continue this routine uninterrupted until the treatment has been completed. Depending on the complexity of the case, Invisalign aligners could transform your mouth in as little as 6 months, but you can expect to see results within a few weeks. Finally, by maintaining your smile with good oral hygiene and potentially with the help of a retainer, you can ensure that your smile shines for many years to come. Invisalign offers its own brand of a retainer, but you can always work with your dentist to see what options best work for you.  Be sure that you are seeing a dentist or orthodontist that is trained in Invisalign. These specialists need to attend a series of instructional sessions and continue with ongoing training. Because of the deep knowledge that is required to successfully treat patients using Invisalign, it is important to see trained specialists like those at Golden Smiles Dental.

Treatment Timeline for Invisalign

For the average adult, the treatment timeline tends to be around 12 months. This varies depending on how complex each case is. Teens may have a more complex and variable timeline.  All patients will work closely with your dentist to develop a treatment plan that is customized to your individual needs.  Additionally, sometimes the dentist will use small attachments to help perfect your smile. These are tooth-colored bumps that can be placed on the teeth in order to help the aligner grip the teeth and create the desired movement.

What Can Invisalign Fix?

What makes Invisalign so special is just how many dental problems it can fix. From gaps in teeth, to over or underbites, to teeth crowding, your dentist can create a special Invisalign aligner just for your mouth. Getting a mouth of straight and aligned teeth is not only good for your confidence, but also for your health. Gapped teeth can leave the gums unprotected and this can cause or make worse periodontal disease. Overbites and underbites can lead to stress on the jaw and joint problems, while overcrowded teeth can lead to plaque accumulation as well as greater difficulty in maintaining the teeth. This can lead to cavities. Invisalign can address all of these issues so that you are able to have the best oral health possible.

Does Invisalign Prevent Me From Eating My Favorite Foods?

Luckily, Invisalign aligners can be removed while eating. This means that you can go about your normal routine without much inconvenience. You simply remove them in the morning and in the evening to clean them. Simply brush them like you brush your teeth!  Remove your aligners when you eat as well. You never have to worry about food being stuck in wires or brackets. Invisalign can actually keep your teeth cleaner as you can maintain your normal oral health routine while aligning your teeth.  And for those athletes out there, you can remove your Invisalign and wear a mouthguard! Just be sure to replace them after the game. One of the best features of the Invisalign system is that you can see the progress of your smile as it happens. You never have to wonder how your teeth will look when the plan is finished!  Additionally, your mouth won’t be irritated by the metal braces. You don’t have to apply messy wax to the braces to prevent them from scratching and cutting the insides of your cheeks.  While the first few days of each treatment stage can be a little uncomfortable, Invisalign is a far easier choice to deal with. The discomfort is generally described as a kind of pressure.

After the Invisalign Treatment

When you have finished reaching your perfect smile, your doctor will likely recommend retainers. This is the same as if you were getting traditional braces or invisible aligners. Retainers are needed to keep the teeth in place after the treatment.  You also need to maintain good oral health. This means brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Be sure to follow any further recommendations made by your dentist following your treatment.  If you think Invisalign aligners are for you, and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at  (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
Dental Implants Illustration
January 21, 2020

The True Cost of Dental Implants

by admin / Posted in Dental Care, Dental Implants
The options available for tooth replacement are many and each has its own costs associated with them, but what is the real cost of dental implants? Unlike traditional dentures, they require no glues or adhesives to stay in place and they often last many years if not decades. They also have the advantage of acting very much like a natural tooth and helping to preserve the shape of your face.  It seems like more and more is being said about dental implants and their advantages. They are popular for very good reasons. They look and function very much like natural, real teeth, but they are designed to be durable and strong. But how much is this going to cost you? 

How much does it cost to get a full mouth of dental implants?

On average a full mouth of dental implants only requires four implants per arch, four on top and four on the bottom. These are anchor points on which the arch is placed. Together they hold in place a denture securely and naturally to the gums.  The final cost of your bill will often take in factors such as location, the number of dental implants that are required, the materials that are used for the implant and what if anything your dentist needs to do before the surgery. This can be things like tooth extraction, or molds of the teeth. You are also paying for the dentist’s expertise. Be sure that you are going to a reputable and skilled oral surgeon as your oral health impacts the entirety of the rest of your health.  Getting a full set of teeth replaced can open the door to greater health. You can enjoy the foods you once enjoyed, speak with ease and clarity, and never worry about your smile again. The cost of more than one implant can range from $3,000 to $30,000, and if you opt for the best of all the available options that could go up as high as $90,000. 

How much does a dental implant cost for one tooth?

Getting a dental implant can cost roughly anywhere between $1500 to $6,000 including the cost of the office visits, any x-rays, any anesthesia, and any other associated costs. As with getting a full mouth of implants, the cost is directly related to the location, materials, and any prior procedures that will be required to be done.  While this may seem like a large investment, remember that you aren’t paying for just a quick and simple fix. You are investing in your future health and livelihood. Being able to eat good, healthful foods is going to impact your ability to live a full and healthy life. If you are missing a tooth, you can not only impact your health by not being able to chew the foods you love and need, but your appearance will change as well. The jawbone will naturally recede if there is no tooth root to encourage the bone to grow. This means your face shape will change over time. A dental implant will save you that shift in appearance by being anchored directly into the jawbone. This allows it to act as a natural tooth and it will bond directly to the bone. This creates a stable and secure base for the implant crown.

How much does insurance pay for dental implants?

Often insurance will cover the cost of dental implants if they are being implanted for a medical need. If it is considered a cosmetic surgery then many insurance companies will not cover the cost of dental implants. It is important to check with your dental insurance to see what they will cover and what costs you can expect to have to cover for the surgery, visits and other aspects of the service. Sometimes only portions or parts of the dental implant procedure will be covered, such as the initial consultation, office visits and more.  Call your insurance as soon as you are considering to get dental implants and you may save yourself a ton of money. Some Medicare Advantage plans may include dental implants, so it is important to know what your coverage will and will not include.

Why do dental implants cost so much?

One of the reasons why dental implants can be so costly is that they are not a single procedure, but require seeing a dentist or oral surgeon multiple times in order to check on your progress and provide consultations. Here is a very basic breakdown of what you can expect to do if you are planning on getting a dental implant:
  • Consultation. During the consultation, your dentist will check your mouth, get x-rays, and give a diagnosis of the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. This is important to determine if you are a good candidate for implants. If you want to proceed with the implant surgery, your dentist will then take a mold of your mouth to be used in the creation of the implant.
  • The setting of the implant. The implant surgery itself generally consists of the dentist or oral surgeon drilling a small hole into the jawbone and inserting the implant. You sometimes will get a temporary tooth after this procedure.
  • The Abutment and Crown placement. After your gum and jaw have healed from the insertion of the implant base, an abutment is placed. This basically provides a surface for the permanent crown to be fixed on to. Sometimes the crown is placed after a period of more healing depending on the needs of the patient.
If you think dental implants are for you, and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at  (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
tooth whitening cost
December 27, 2019

How much does teeth whitening cost?

by admin / Posted in Dental Care
Teeth whitening offers one of the easiest ways to dramatically improve your smile, often without any kind of dramatic surgery but how much does teeth whitening cost really? You may be surprised to know that there are many forms of teeth whitening that are very affordable. According to a survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, an overwhelming majority of Americans think that an attractive smile makes a person more appealing. And of the qualities that make up an attractive smile, whiter teeth were the key to a more attractive smile.  Teeth can become discolored over time as the outer layer of enamel on the teeth is worn away. Things like drinking staining drinks like coffee, tea and wine, smoking, and more can stain the teeth and make them not look as white as they naturally do.

How much does it cost to get your teeth professionally whitened?

How much you can expect teeth whitening to cost depends largely on what options you chose and whether you do it at home or at your dentist’s office.  The cheapest option is going to be teeth whitening kinds of toothpaste and mouthwashes. These often run under $5 or less. Using over-the-counter products like teeth whitening strips or gels will be an affordable option. A single box is generally $20 to $40 a box and contains enough strips to treat your teeth for a few weeks. You could also use over-the-counter trays that are filled with a whitening solution that is then worn to bed. These often are under $100.  These cheap options may be affordable, but they do not offer the same power as in-office treatments. You can expect them to whiten your teeth by one or two shades, but for greater whitening, getting your teeth whitened at a dentist’s office is going to be the best way to go.  The average cost of in-office teeth whitening is $650, but it can climb to close to $1,000 or more, depending on the type of product that your dentist uses and how much your dentist would charge for the treatment.

Is it worth it to get your teeth professionally whitened?

Getting your teeth whitened professionally seems like a bigger jump in cost, and is the teeth whitening cost worth it? In most cases, the in-office treatment is a great return on investment. People notice the change in appearance after their in-office treatment compared to how at-home treatments work.  The bleaching agents that your dentist would use is much stronger than the ones that are used in at-home treatments. For example, the whitening strips in the store often contain no more than 10% of hydrogen peroxide, a common bleaching agent. In-office treatments use stronger solutions that contain 25 to 40% hydrogen peroxide.  It is important to consider the long term maintenance that teeth whitening may require. No teeth whitening solution is going to be permanent. And how long your teeth remain white depends largely on your lifestyle. Refraining from smoking, drinking or eating staining foods, and practicing good oral health can help ensure the results to last for up to a year.  In-office treatments offer the fastest and most noticeable treatment, with treatments often taking no more than an hour and often only a single treatment is needed.

Is teeth whitening covered by insurance?

Typically, dental insurance does not cover cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening. Most dental procedures are strickly related to health and wellness, like routine cleanings, x-rays, root canals, and the like are what the insurance company will cover. Check your benefits to see if your dental insurance covers cosmetic procedures, like tooth whitening, veneers and the like. These procedures are not considered medically necessary and often the patient will have to shoulder the entire cost.  See if your dentist offers a payment plan or other options to help you achieve your perfect smile.

Is it bad to get your teeth whitened?

Any bleaching treatment will cause some tooth sensitivity. This is a natural result of the peroxide gel that is used and is common among 66% of people. The severity of the sensitivity varies based on the condition of your tooth enamel. If you have concerns about tooth sensitivity, speak with your dentist before doing any kind of tooth whitening treatment, at home or in-office.  The lasers that are used won’t make your teeth hurt more, but a higher dose of peroxide will.  If you have questions about teeth whitening cost, the treatment, or want to schedule a consultation, and you live in Rancho Cucamonga, California, call Golden Smiles Dental at (909) 481-8990 today.
dental implants cost
December 17, 2019

How much are dental implants?

by admin / Posted in Dental Care, Dental Implants
The cost can be a major sticking point to some, but depending on your oral health needs and the goals of your smile, it may be that dental implants cost much less thank you think. When it comes to teeth replacement options, there are none more effective at preserving jaw bone, chewing strength, and even the natural shape of your face like dental implants.  

How much does a full mouth of dental implants cost?

There are many dental-health related reasons to consider getting dental implants. If you have lost one or many teeth there may be a loss of confidence and over time there can even be a loss of jawbone which can lead to a less aesthetically pleasing smile.  Dental implants act very much like natural teeth. By anchoring them in the jaw, they encourage the bone to grow around them, giving them a stable base that is unmatched by other tooth replacement options like dentures.  Dental implants have been around for many decades, and as the technology improved to both make the implants and install them, the dental implant’s cost has reduced as well.  When it comes down to it, your dental implant’s cost can vary based on what coverage your provider will give and the number of teeth that are being replaced. It can also vary based on where you are getting the implant and what kind of material is used for the crown.  Generally, the cost of a single dental implant can range between $3000 to $4500. This includes the surgery for the placement of the implant, the components, and the implant crown. When replacing a full jaw of teeth, it is more common to do something like a bridge instead of replacing each individual tooth. This may reduce the cost per-tooth of the implants. This may seem like a large investment, but consider how your mouth is the main indicator of your overall health. Being able to chew foods you enjoy dramatically impacts your quality of life. Further, dental implants often last decades where traditional dentures may only last years.  Think of dental implants not as an expense, but as an investment in your health from years to come. The best part is, they are often indistinguishable from natural teeth! It’s the closest thing to getting your natural smile back.

Does any dental insurance cover implants?

You should check with your individual provider to see if they cover dental implants. Your dental team will be able to help you make an informed decision about your insurance and financing options.  If you are feeling stressed or anxious over the cost of implants, your insurance may have your back. Dental implants may be covered by your insurance and even include the costs of exams, x-rays, follow-ups and the materials used in the surgery.  Getting a dental implant means seeing a specialist oral surgeon, and your insurance may even help you out with that. Some may help pay for the implant crown. There are even grants to help pay for your implants that could be worth exploring. Just look for cosmetic dentistry grant programs. Be sure to see what your benefits will cover, as some insurance companies see dental implants as a kind of elective procedure, despite dental implants becoming standard care for the replacement of missing teeth. They have become the favored option because they have a proven and predicable result with a 98% success rate. 

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants offer a long-lasting and highly effective solution for missing teeth. With proper maintenance, dental implants can last for more than 25 years. That is huge when compared to traditional dentures that last only a few years and can result in greater bone loss in the jaw.  Dental implants are designed to be a permanent tooth replacement solution. They support the dental structure and are attached firmly to the jawbone so there is never any slipping when chewing or biting.  A dental implant looks and feels just like your natural teeth and this improves your confidence and self-esteem. You can smile with pride with your new implant, knowing that it looks natural and aesthetically pleasing.  Do you want to spend the next 25 years fiddling with denture glue, watching your face change shape as your jaw disappears? Or do you want to see your smile restored and confident that you can eat the foods you love and do every day essential things like talk and smile with confidence? If you think dental implants are for you, and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at  (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
teeth whitening
November 23, 2019

How does a dentist whiten my teeth?

by admin / Posted in Dental Care
A brighter, whiter smile is highly sought after by many people, but finding the right teeth whitening solution can be a bit of a problem. You have two options: getting your teeth whitened by a dentist or trying to do it at home.  Both options use a peroxide-based bleaching agent, with at-home options generally having a lower concentration at 3% to 10% peroxide, and in-office systems contain 15% to 43% peroxide.  As a general rule, the longer you keep a stronger solution on your teeth, the brighter your teeth become. However, when you have a higher percentage of peroxide in the whitening solution, the shorter it should be applied to the teeth. If the gel is kept on longer, the tooth can dehydrate and increase its sensitivity. 

At-home whitening vs teeth whitening at the dentist 

When you get your teeth whitened by a dentist, you can see results much faster. The bleach solution is much stronger than at-home kits could be. A dentist can also use heat and light in combination to speed and intensify the whitening process.  You can expect dramatic results, with teeth getting three to eight shades brighter, but this may require several 30 to 60 minutes visits, but some dentists can complete the procedure in a single 2-hour appointment.  At home, you can use tooth whitening strips, gels, and toothpaste. Each of these options offers a convenient way for you to bleach your teeth on your own. But you should be careful as incorrectly used home kits can lead to burned or temporarily bleached gums.  You should also consider if you can incorporate something like a tray-based tooth bleaching system, which can range between $150 to $600 to get a custom-fitted one. These trays are filled with a peroxide bleaching gel and they are placed over the teeth for several hours a day for up to four weeks. Be sure that you have the time and willpower to commit to faithfully using the tray for the treatment to work. 

How much does teeth whitening cost?

The cost can vary but generally ranges from $500 to $1000. This may seem like a lot of money, especially when compared to at-home solutions which can be as cheap as a tube of whitening toothpaste, but the effect is stronger and the results last longer.  At-home kits can often run much cheaper, varying from $3-$5 for tooth whitening toothpaste, to $10 to $55 for tooth whitening strips and gels. Keep in mind that these require a much longer commitment of many weeks to see a result. And that result is often weaker than in-office treatments. You might also be able to get some or part of the treatment covered by your insurance. Be sure to check with your insurance company, especially if the discoloration is due to a dead nerve, or due to tooth trauma, infection, or illness. If so, this kind of discoloration is likely going to need professional help to make it white again.

Is teeth whitening permanent?

Teeth whitening can often last a very long time, but it is not permanent. There are things you can do to maintain the results. Keep your teeth bright and white by maintaining good oral health by brushing, flossing, and rinsing daily. Avoid acidic and tannin-rich foods and drinks like:
  • Black teas and coffee
  • White and red wine
  • Sports drinks
  • Carbonated beverages no matter the color
  • Berries and other strongly-colored foods
  • Sauces
Most teeth whitening lasts a few months to up to 3 years, and this number varies from person to person. By avoiding the above foods, you can make sure that your teeth are kept nice and white for as long as possible. 

Is it safe?

The many different options that you have to whiten the teeth can all be done safely. If you are especially concerned about getting your teeth whitened and preventing gum burns, then a professional in-office treatment is the best option for you. There are some side effects to consider. Bleaching the teeth can make them more sensitive. This may occur in the first or second treatment and should diminish with time. Your dentist can prescribe treating sensitivity with products that contain potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride gel. you may also experience irritated gums sometimes called gingival irritation. This can happen because of your gums coming into contact with the peroxide-based whitening product. These side effects should go away after your treatments. Remember that you can’t whiten your teeth permanently. Any teeth whitening process will be temporary. You’ll need to seek new teeth whitening treatments at regular intervals to keep your smile bright and white. You’ll also want to ask your dentist about what to do if you have implants, crowns, bridges, or dentures.  If you are interested in getting your teeth whitened and you live in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, speak with our team of expert dentists by calling Golden Smiles Dental at (909) 481-8990.
dental implants cost
November 13, 2019

Benefits of All on 4 Implants vs. Dentures

by admin / Posted in Dental Care
When it comes to options you have for tooth replacement, it can sometimes seem like there are too many choices. How can you tell which option would work best for you? The answer depends on several factors that you and your dentist have to consider when trying to develop a treatment plan, from your oral health to what options your insurance covers. Today we are going to take a look at the benefits of All on 4 implants versus dentures. Which one is right for you? Find out below.

What is an All on 4 Implant?

Let’s first take a look at dental implants. Essentially, a dental implant is a small titanium screw that is fitted inside the jaw bone and completely replaces the missing tooth. The screw actually will bond to the jawbone and help prevent the jawbone from receding. Once the screw is set, a crown is attached to give a highly realistic-looking and exceptionally functional prosthetic tooth. But what if you have more than one tooth missing? What if you need a full mouth dental implant restoration? That is where All on 4 implants come in. All on 4 implants use just four implants in the top or bottom jaw to restore your smile. The full-arch implant has a unique ability to directly fuse to your jaw and strengthen them due to the titanium used in the implant. This means your new implants can serve as a strong and lasting foundation for your new teeth. The fusion of the implant into the jaw can even prevent bone loss. This has the effect of maintaining your facial structure as well as your oral health. All on 4 implants can quickly change your life by almost completely restoring your teeth. 

Benefits of All on 4 Implants

All on 4 implants are a great solution for those patients who need all or the majority of teeth replaced on the upper or lower jaw. Unlike dentures, which adhere to the gums with a sticky and messy cement, all on 4 implants can replace an entire jaw of teeth with only four simple implants.  The biggest benefit of the all on 4 implants is how quickly you can get your smile restored. While they do require minor surgery for the implants to be installed, they offer a long term solution to missing teeth. Dentures often last only a few years, while implants can last decades. They are about as close to getting your natural teeth back as you can get. 

Cost of All on 4 Implants

When it comes down to it, the biggest factor that many people consider is the cost of all on 4 implants. The cost of the all on 4 implants can vary based on the materials chosen and how much your insurance will cover. The materials of all on 4 implants vary from acrylic to composite. An acrylic denture can typically cost between $20,000 to $30,000. You may go to more than one dentist or specialist for this procedure and that may increase the cost.  Porcelain or composite dentures are often more realistic than acrylic and often last much longer, but often run about $5,000 more per jaw. Replacing a broken porcelain denture can cost roughly $15,000. The expense of getting an All on 4 implants may be intimidating for many patients, but remember that insurance and discounts could apply.  It is important to remember that your oral health is perhaps the biggest factor that determines your overall quality of life. Good oral health impacts everything from brain health to speaking comfortably to your diet. Being able to eat foods you enjoy and ones that are important to you is important and can only be done with good oral health. 

What is the Procedure Like for All on 4 Implants?

Getting any implant for the first time can be intimidating. Gaining a good understanding of the process can help soothe your fears, so here is an explanation of the process from start to finish. The procedure begins with a consultation between you and the dentist in which you can address any fears and have any questions you might have about the procedure. First, your dentist will ensure that you are comfortable and administer either a local or general anesthesia. Next, the dentist or the oral surgeon will prepare your mouth for the implants. This can include removing your remaining teeth that are failing. They will then remove any diseased or infected tissue from your jaw and gums. Then comes the actual implantation process. They will insert the titanium screws into the jawbone, placing two toward the front of the mouth and two toward the back of the mouth so that the anchors can evenly carry the force of the denture.  Once all the Implants have been placed your dentist will thoroughly clean the site and suture all the incisions. Then you’ll be taken into a room to recover and relax while you wake up from the anesthesia.  The recovery time for all on four dental implants can range from 3 to 8 months but you should be functioning much sooner. The reason for the lengthy recovery time is that the implants are fusing to your bone and this will promote stability from the very first day. Your dentist will prepare you for the recovery and you may need to meet with them for checkups during the recovery period. 

How Long do All on 4 Implants Last versus dentures?

It’s important to remember that all in 4 implants are made up of two parts: a dental implant that is placed inside the bone and the visible denture that connects to those implants. Studies have shown that over the past 10 years all on four implants are comparable or better than other dental implant systems.  At five years the implant success rate was at 98% with 95% of patients experiencing not a single dental implant failure. At the 10-year mark, the implant survival rate was at 95% with 94% of patients experiencing not a single implant failure. This study shows how reliable and how stable all on four implants are. If you think all on 4 implants are for you, and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
tooth whitening cost
September 24, 2019

What is a Smile Makeover?

by admin / Posted in Dental Care
Have you ever wanted to reinvent your smile? Luckily for you, there is such a thing as a smile makeover. Smile Makeovers are all the rage and for good reason. They are a process of improving the appearance of your smile through one or more cosmetic dental procedures, like dental veneers, composite bonding, tooth implants, and teeth whitening. What’s more is that the approach is holistic with your facial appearance, skin tone, hair color, teeth – including the color, width, length, shape, and tooth display – gum tissue and lips. There is a variety of reasons for choosing a smile makeover and each is customized for your needs.

Some Smile Makeover Options

Tooth color

Tooth discoloration, whether it is from silver or amalgam dental fillings, or from stained teeth, can often be corrected and even improved. Tooth color and shading are often among the top considerations during the evaluation and preparation of different procedures, such as porcelain veneers, crowns, bridges, composite bonding, and dental implants. Each of these procedures can be useful for whitening the teeth, but each had different levels of involvement and time required. Dark or discolored teeth can be taken as aged mouth, and a white, well-shaped smile can give your face an immediate youthful appearance. And, special consideration is taken to be sure that the shade of white used is appropriate for your overall appearance and help create a natural appearance.

Tooth Alignment and Spacing

Crooked teeth, or teeth that are overlapping, or ones that have gaps between them can often be straightened. When necessary, the teeth can be aligned with options such as orthodontics or products like Invisalign, and be further improved with veneers.

Fix Missing Teeth

If you have one or more missing teeth, this can negatively affect the appearance of your smile. It can also have an effect on your ability to chew food and increase the risk of tooth decay. Replacement teeth can be an integral part of your oral health and facial aesthetics. Missing teeth can be remedied by dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures.

A More Aesthetically Pleasing Smile

A smile that has chipped or cracked teeth, or an uneven appearance can be corrected by a cosmetic bonding, and a smile with a lot of cum can be shaped to help improve the overall look of the smile. Your face can be rejuvenated by cosmetic dentistry procedures that can reshape your whole face. A cosmetic dentist will help you create a treatment plan that is designed to achieve the exact results that you want from your smile makeover. The treatment plan may include both cosmetic and restorative procedures. These could include teeth whitening, composite bonding, veneers, dental crowns, orthodontics like braces, oral maxillofacial surgery, and even gummy smile reduction.

What Things Are Considered in a Smile Makeover?

When creating a treatment plan for a smile makeover you will have a lot of things to consider when working with your dentist to help create your perfect smile. Here are some options that you might consider:
  • Tooth Length: Short teeth or a gummy smile can make your teeth look shorter, and this can significantly age you. Long teeth help to lend a more youthful appearance. This can also change the overall appearance of your face. Long, square teeth on a person with a round-faced individual can often create a very slimming effect. Some procedures that can be used to create this effect include: reshaping and lengthening the two front central teeth with cosmetic bonding or porcelain veneers.
  • Improving the Smile Line: The smile line is the name for an imaginary line that follows the edges of your upper teeth from one side to the other. Ideally, the line runs parallel to the curve of your lower lip when you smile. This is a standard point of reference when you want to determine how long your teeth should be.
  • Keeping your Teeth in Proportions: One of the first things that your dentist will determine is if your teeth are in proportion. Generally, an aesthetically pleasing smile is one that has the two front teeth as the dominant ones and width to length ratio of 4 to 5. This proportion is the guide by which your dentist will keep your smile in balance.
  • Tooth Texture and Characterization: The veneers and crowns can be customized to create a look that matches the look and feel of a natural tooth.

Keeping Your Smile Shining with a Smile Makeover

You will still require regular oral care and will require maintenance in order to keep your smile glowing over time. Teeth whitening will sometimes need to be repeated to maintain brightness. Veneers may chip and require replacement. If you are serious about getting your perfect smile, you will also follow a regular oral health routine, including brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day. Any oral health problems – such as gum disease, or a misaligned bite – will need to be taken care of before cosmetic treatments are applied. If you are interested in getting your own smile makeover, and you live in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, give Golden Smiles Dental a call at (909) 481-8990.