Restoring An Aging Smile

Restoring An Aging Smile

How Cosmetic dentistry can bring an aging smile back to life

As we age, our teeth are subjected to years of wear and tear that cause our once-bright smiles to start fading away. Discolored teeth, chipped edges, cavities, and gaps can make us feel self-conscious and embarrassed to smile. It is a known fact that our appearance affects our self-confidence, leading us to shy away from social situations and interactions. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry can provide you with a solution to your worries and help revitalize your aging smile.

Teeth Whitening

As we age, our teeth undergo natural discoloration due to factors such as coffee, smoking, and certain foods. Teeth whitening is an effective cosmetic dentistry solution that can significantly improve the color of your teeth and give you a brighter smile. A professional teeth whitening treatment can help remove stubborn stains and brighten your teeth by several shades, providing a noticeable difference and restoring your confidence.

Veneers

Veneers offer a long-lasting solution for those with chipped, worn, or discolored teeth. They are made of high-quality porcelain that is custom-made to fit your teeth. Veneers can correct the appearance of gaps, misaligned teeth, and stains that are resistant to teeth whitening. They provide a natural, beautiful smile and are known to last for up to 15-20 years.

Dental Implants

Missing teeth can cause significant discomfort, decreased function, and a lack of confidence when smiling. Dental implants are a permanent solution that replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and feel like real teeth. They are extremely durable, making them a long-lasting and effective cosmetic dentistry option that can improve not just your appearance, but also your quality of life.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are ideal for patients with significant tooth decay or damage. A crown can restore your natural tooth shape and size while also improving your overall oral health. A crown is a customized cap that is bonded to an existing tooth, providing it with extra strength and durability. They provide a long-lasting cosmetic solution that’s effective and also helps in maintaining good oral hygiene.

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring reshapes and sculpts the gum line to create a more symmetrical, proportionate smile. It transforms the appearance of teeth that appear too short due to excessive gum tissue, giving you a more youthful and attractive smile. The procedure is relatively painless and can be completed in just one visit.

Contact Us

Cosmetic dentistry offers a wide range of solutions that can restore the confidence of those with aging smiles. Teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, crowns, and gum contouring can fix a variety of dental problems and revitalize your smile. If you’re embarrassed by your smile, it’s time to explore the benefits of cosmetic dentistry. At Green Dental Care, we’re committed to helping our clients achieve the dental look they desire, and we provide a wide range of cosmetic dentistry options to suit every need. Schedule a consultation with us today, and let our experienced team of dental experts help you bring your smile back to life.

Dental Implant Recovery Process

Dental Implant Recovery Process

Dental Implant Recovery Process

Dental Implant Recovery Process

A Guide to the Dental Implant Recovery Process: What to Expect

If you have recently undergone a dental implant procedure, congratulations! You are now on your way to a beautiful, functional smile. However, the recovery process can be a bit intimidating, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. In this guide, we’ll take you through the different stages of dental implant recovery, so you can be prepared for what’s to come. Whether you need a single tooth implant or a full-mouth restoration, our tips will help you heal faster and maintain optimal oral health.

Immediately After Surgery

After your dental implant surgery, your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your implant site. You’ll need to avoid smoking, using straws, and eating hard or sticky foods for a few days. You should also use ice packs to reduce swelling and avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours. You may experience some discomfort, but your dentist will prescribe pain medication to help you manage it. It’s important to keep your mouth clean to prevent infection. You can rinse your mouth with saltwater but avoid brushing or flossing the implant site for the first week.

First Few Days

During the first few days of your dental implant recovery, you may experience some bleeding, swelling, and bruising. This is normal and should subside within a week. You can manage these symptoms with over-the-counter pain medication and by applying ice packs to the affected area. Make sure to get plenty of rest and avoid activities that may increase swelling, such as bending over or exercising. It’s also important to stick to soft and lukewarm foods, such as soup and mashed potatoes, to avoid irritating the implant site.

First Two Weeks

After the first week, you can resume your oral hygiene routine, but be gentle around the implant site. You can brush your teeth and use a water flosser but avoid touching the implant or using too much pressure. Your dentist may recommend a special mouthwash to help keep your mouth clean and reduce the risk of infection. You should also continue to stick to soft and lukewarm foods, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks.

First Month

By the end of the first month, your dental implant should be fully integrated with your jawbone. You can start introducing harder and chewier foods into your diet, but be careful not to bite down directly on the implant. Your dentist may also recommend a custom-made mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night. This can help protect your new implant and prevent damage. Make sure to attend all your follow-up appointments with your dentist, so they can monitor your progress and make sure your implant is healing properly.

Aftercare

Once your dental implant has fully healed, you should continue to take care of your oral health by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for regular checkups. You should also avoid hard and sticky foods, as they can damage your new implant. If you play contact sports, make sure to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and gums. With proper care, your dental implant can last a lifetime, and you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.

Dental implant recovery can be a bit challenging, but it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions and take care of your oral health. By following our tips and advice, you can speed up your recovery time and minimize the risk of complications. If you’re looking for a dentist in Parker, Colorado, our team at Green Dental Care is here to help. We specialize in dental implants and can provide you with personalized care and attention. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a beautiful, functional smile.

Facts on Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist

facts on choosing a cosmetic dentist

Facts on Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist

facts on choosing a cosmetic dentist

How To Choose A Cosmetic Dentist

Choosing a cosmetic dentist can be a daunting task. With so many dentists to choose from, it’s difficult to know who to trust with your smile. This blog post will provide you with facts on choosing a cosmetic dentist in Parker, Colorado. We will take a closer look at what sets a good cosmetic dentist apart, what to look for, and how to ensure that you’re making the right decision for your dental health.

Credentials and Experience

Ensure that the dentist you choose is licensed and has experience in cosmetic dentistry. Look for a dentist who has a solid educational background in the field and has years of experience under their belt. Ask potential dentists about their experience with the specific cosmetic procedures you’re interested in.

Specialization

If you’re looking for a specific cosmetic procedure such as dental implants, veneers or teeth whitening, look for a dentist who specializes in that area. Cosmetic dentistry requires a high level of specialization, so finding a dentist who has skills in your specific area can make a huge difference in your outcomes.

Referrals and Recommendations

Before making a decision, collect referrals and recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues. You can also check online reviews of the dentist you’re interested in. Word-of-mouth referrals provide insight into the quality of service, level of expertise, and overall satisfaction you can expect from a specific cosmetic dentist.

Technology and Techniques

Look for a cosmetic dentist who uses modern technology and up-to-date techniques. A good cosmetic dentist will have invested in the latest equipment and technology to provide the best dental care to their patients. Ask the dentist about the technology and techniques they use and how they work. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect during your visit.

Comfort and Communication

A good cosmetic dentist should make you feel comfortable and at ease during your visits. A cosmetic dentist’s communication style is important, especially when discussing procedures and treatment options. The right cosmetic dentist should provide clear and detailed explanations of treatments, procedures, and what to expect during and after each visit.

Choosing a cosmetic dentist is an important decision. It’s essential to take your time, research your options, and choose a dentist that you feel comfortable with. Consider factors such as education, experience, specialization, referrals, technology and techniques, and communication when making your choice. Remember, a good cosmetic dentist will have your best interests in mind, provide quality care, and help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. Green Dental Care in Parker, Colorado is here to help you with all of your cosmetic dentistry needs.

How To Save A Tooth When It Gets Knocked Out

How To Save A Tooth When It Gets Knocked Out

How To Save A Tooth When It Gets Knocked Out

How To Save A Tooth When It Gets Knocked Out

What To Do When Your Tooth Gets Knocked Out 

Losing a tooth is a frightening event, and it can happen in several ways. Most commonly, teeth are knocked out or loosened due to an accident or trauma. In this situation, staying calm and seeking medical attention immediately is important. In the meantime, avoid touching or moving the affected tooth, as this could damage the root and make it more difficult to save. If the tooth is loose, gently rinse it with warm water and attempt to replace it in the socket. If the tooth is completely knocked out, hold it by the crown (the white part) and rinse any dirt or debris. Do not attempt to reinsert the tooth into the socket, as this could damage the root. Instead, place the tooth in a cup of milk or saline solution and bring it with you to the best dentist Parker Co. With prompt medical treatment, saving your tooth and avoiding further complications may be possible.

First Thing, Pick Up From The Root Of The Tooth 

When your tooth gets knocked out, it is important to handle it correctly so that it can be used for dental implants. The first step is to pick the tooth up by the top (the part that chews). You want to avoid touching the tooth’s root, as this can damage it. Once you have picked up the tooth by the top, you should rinse it off with water. You must put the tooth in a milk or saline solution container. This will help keep the tooth alive and prevent it from drying. If you follow these steps, you will increase the chances that the tooth can be used for dental implants.

Rinse The Tooth Off If It’s Dirty

If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with water. Do not use soap or chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. Do not scrub the tooth or try to dry it off, and do not wrap the tooth in any type of dry tissue or cloth. The best way to preserve the tooth is to keep it moist. Place the tooth in milk, saline solution, or water container, and get to the dentist as soon as possible. Time is of the essence when it comes to saving a knocked-out tooth, so act quickly!

Push The Tooth Back In The Socket 

Dental emergencies can be painful and stressful, but it’s important to remain calm and take quick action to ensure the best possible outcome. If you have a tooth knocked out, the first step is to place it back in the socket. If the root is still intact, gently push the tooth back into the socket and close your mouth. You can keep it in place by biting down gently or holding it steady with your finger. Then, seek professional dental care as soon as possible. With prompt treatment, it may be possible to save the tooth and avoid further damage to your smile.

Contact Green Dental Care Today!

Green Dental Care is committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care. We offer a wide range of services, from preventative care to cosmetic dentistry. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our patients receive the best possible treatment. Please contact us today if you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your dental goals.

 

Cosmetic Dental Procedures In Parker Co

Cosmetic Dental Procedures In Parker Co

Cosmetic Dental Procedures In Parker Co

Top Common Cosmetic Dental 

In the past, achieving a beautiful smile typically involved a lot of time and effort. For example, teeth Whitening usually took multiple visits to the dentist, and people with gaps or crooked teeth often had to wear braces for years. However, advances in cosmetic dentistry have made it possible to achieve exceptional results in less time. Our practice offers a full range of cosmetic dental services, from teeth whitening and veneers to Invisalign. We understand that everyone’s needs are different, and we work closely with each patient to develop a treatment plan to give them a smile they’ve always wanted. Whether you’re looking for a subtle change or a complete transformation, we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Find out what cosmetic dental procedures in Parker Co have for you.

Tooth-Colored Fillings Near Parker, Co

At Green Dental Care, we understand that a healthy smile is also beautiful. That’s why we offer our patients the option of tooth-colored fillings. Unlike traditional mercury-amalgam fillings, which can contain harmful metals and increase teeth sensitivity, tooth-colored fillings are made from a durable resin that closely matches the color of natural teeth. As a result, they can restore the appearance of a filled tooth without sacrificing function or comfort. In addition, our friends over at Park Hills Family Dentistry, the best dentist in Lexington, Ky, believe that tooth-colored fillings are less likely to stain and discolor over time, making them an ideal choice for patients concerned about their smile’s long-term aesthetics. 

Types Of Porcelain Crowns Dr. Green Offers 

Porcelain crowns are a restorative and cosmetic dental procedure used to cover teeth that have been seriously damaged or stained. They are also perfect for replacing gold or steel metallic crowns. Dr. Green, the best dentist in Parker Co,  crafts each crown to match your existing teeth perfectly so that it will be completely indistinguishable from a natural tooth. The porcelain used in the crowns is also resistant to staining, providing a long-lasting solution to your dental problems. Porcelain crowns may be the perfect solution if you want to improve your smile.

Green Dental Care Teeth Whitening 

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that uses peroxide-based bleaching agents to remove tough stains on teeth. Teeth whitening is affordable, fast, and non-invasive, and it is almost always the most affordable way to restore your smile. The most common side effect of teeth whitening is tooth sensitivity, which is temporary and typically resolves within a few days. If you are considering teeth whitening, please consult your dentist in Parker Co to determine if it is right for you.

Contact Green Dental Care To Start Your Smile Journey 

We are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality dental care at Green Dental Care. We offer a wide range of dental services, from preventative care to cosmetic procedures. We also offer dental savings plans to make dental care more affordable. Our goal is to help our patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. If you are looking for a new dentist, we invite you to contact us today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to meeting you and starting you on your smile journey.

5 Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

5 cosmetic dentistry procedures

5 Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

5 cosmetic dentistry procedures

You know that your dentist and good oral healthcare can help you to keep your teeth healthy and functional. But just how much do you know about what cosmetic dentistry can offer you? Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that offers a focus on the aesthetic improvement of your smile. While most cosmetic procedures are elective, there are some situations where the treatments can be considered to have restorative benefits.

Dr. Christopher Green and Dr. Ionescu, each considered to be the best dentist in Parker CO, can offer a range of cosmetic dentistry solutions to help you to achieve your aesthetic goals.

There are several cosmetic solutions you may benefit from. We’ve assembled a list of the top five popular cosmetic solutions to help you to get that white and bright smile that you deserve.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic procedures. Also known as teeth bleaching, this treatment can be done by using our take-home teeth whitening trays. While there are many over the counter teeth bleaching products, they are not always the safest and most effective way of getting the results that you’re hoping to achieve.

Our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, says whitening your teeth should be done only after your teeth have been cleaned professionally and thoroughly. Teeth can become stained from the foods and drinks we enjoy, and also sometimes from the medications that we take. In-office treatments can help you to see the results that you’re looking for.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers use a form of dental bonding to adhere thin ceramic shells to the natural teeth. Each of the veneers is custom-made to fit your teeth so that you are assured of the best fit. Veneers can resolve several cosmetic concerns, including cracked and damaged enamel, gaps between teeth, and crooked teeth.

Patients can use veneers to take their smile several shades whiter, which is often the reason patients opt for this cosmetic solution.

Replacing Older Fillings

Today’s dental solutions for cavities typically use tooth-colored fillings that are blended to match the shade of the natural tooth. Older style fillings were often made from metal and can prove to be very visible in your mouth when you smile. Replacing old metal fillings with white fillings is one of the quickest ways for you to transform your smile.

Implants, Permanent Solutions

Dental implants are a permanent replacement for the root of a tooth that has been extracted or lost. A titanium post is surgically inserted into the jaw, replacing the missing tooth. The post will serve as the anchor for a prosthetic tooth or a crown. Once the healthy bone in the jaw has fused to the implant, the implant is secured permanently. Implants should be cleaned just as you would clean your natural teeth, to keep your surrounding natural teeth healthy and to promote positive gum health.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Braces can help to resolve several concerns with bite and jaw alignment, but they can also offer cosmetic solutions for those who may have slightly misaligned teeth. Many adults opt to consider their orthodontic options once they have resolved other concerns with their teeth. There are several options, including discreet braces that are almost invisible once in place.

When visiting with a cosmetic dentist, Parker CO patients should take the time to ask the questions that will help them to make the right decisions to meet their cosmetic goals. Remember that cosmetic treatments cannot typically be considered until any functional concerns with the teeth have been addressed.

How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist

how to choose a cosmetic dentist - Green Dental Care

How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist

how to choose a cosmetic dentist - Green Dental Care

These days, cosmetic dentistry has grown in popularity to the extent that a large number of people have either heard about or actually undergone a cosmetic dentistry procedure. With so many cosmetic dentists out there, the task of picking the best to transform your teeth and smile can be a daunting challenge. If you are looking for a cosmetic dentist in Parker, CO, dental care experts at Green Dental Care, recommend the following.

Check Their Credentials

Your quest for the best cosmetic dentist should start by looking into the credentials. For example, is that dentist a member of a professional association for cosmetic dentists? For example, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry?

Dr. Christopher Green, the best dentist in Parker CO, has made a huge mark as a cosmetic and general dentist that he was even named among the top 40 under 40 by Incisal Magazine (the leading lifestyle magazine in dentistry). When you make Green Dental Care in Parker CO, your home for all your cosmetic dentistry needs, you will have selected one of the best professionals in the area.

Ask for Referrals

Our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, one of the top dentists in Georgetown, KY, says that asking around for referrals is a great option for choosing a cosmetic dentist. There is a high likelihood that someone in your social and professional circles has had a firsthand experience of undergoing a cosmetic dental procedure, such as getting dental veneers, undergoing teeth whitening, or even Invisalign. That friend, colleague, or family member will, therefore, point you in the right direction. That way, you don’t spend time and money trying out different cosmetic dentists.

Find Out What Services Are Offered

If you are looking for a cosmetic dentist, you must select one who offers a broad range of cosmetic and restorative services. This is important because you’ll want to get all the services in one place.

You wouldn’t want to be sent to different dental offices all over Colorado, right? Luckily, it’s much easier to find a cosmetic dentist online. All you have to do is to check their website and reviews.

At Green Dental Care, all the dental care needs of you and your entire family can be addressed whether you require restorative dentistry services (implants, bridges, and crowns, for example), general dentistry (root canals, TMJ treatment, and fillings, for example) or cosmetic dentistry (dental bonding, veneers, teeth whitening and Invisalign, for example).

Schedule a Meeting with Your Parker Dentist

It is always good to talk to the cosmetic dentist first. You can meet either in person or talk on the phone. This will achieve several things.

First, you will have a chance to ask and get answers to all your questions. 

It is important that you select a cosmetic dentist that you are comfortable with, and this discussion will give you a chance to evaluate whether their office is a good fit or not.

At Green Dental Care, Dr. Christopher Green is always happy to talk with potential or current patients. Take advantage of this open door. You will soon be convinced that we are the best providers of cosmetic dentistry services in Parker, CO.

Ask About Payment Options

As you may already know, cosmetic dentistry procedures are usually elective, so most dental care insurers don’t cover these procedures. It is, therefore, prudent for you to find out what type of payment they take. Whether the cosmetic dentist that you wish to select accepts credit cards and other forms of payment so that you can select the option that suits your needs.

At Green Dental Care, we even have an in-house Dental Savings Plan for people who have no insurance. Talk to us today and learn how this savings plan can help you and your family.

Don’t take chances with your smile. Cosmetic dentistry can produce remarkable transformations if done right. Dr. Christopher Green and the entire team have the skills and experience to offer all the services that you need. So, call today and schedule a consultation.

Foods to Avoid with Veneers

foods to avoid with veneers - green dental care

Foods to Avoid with Veneers

foods to avoid with veneers - green dental care

You may need dental veneers if your natural teeth have gaps, have become discolored, are chipped, worn down, or have an awkward shape. Dr. Christopher Green, the best dentist in Parker CO, has ample experience in providing veneers to patients. So, visit Green Dental Care in Parker, CO, if you would like to improve the appearance of your smile or protect mildly damaged teeth from further deterioration. As a way of preparing you to transform your smile using dental veneers, we have compiled the following information about the dietary choices that you are advised to keep in mind so that your veneers can last for as long as possible.

Temporary Veneers

In most cases, permanent veneers are made at an external dental lab. Since this process takes approximately 2-3 weeks, Dr. Green cannot allow you to leave without giving you protection while you wait for the permanent veneers to be made. In the interim, you will leave the Green Dental Care office in Parker, CO, with temporary veneers.

Foods to Avoid If You Have Temporary Veneers

Temporary veneers are made to last for only a short while until you can get your permanent veneers. For this reason, Dr. Christopher Green, the best dentist in Parker CO, will attach these temporaries to your teeth using temporary cement. When this temporary cement is exposed to high levels of stress, it can give way, and the veneers may drop off. So, we recommend that you refrain from eating the following foods during the time when these temporary veneers are in place:

  • Tough meats
  • Toasted or crusty bread
  • Hard foods, such as raw vegetables, candy, popcorn, ice, etc.
  • Pigmented drinks, such as coffee, ketchup, berries, red wine, colas, tomatoes, tea, etc.
  • Sticky foods, such as caramels and taffy

Foods You Can Eat If You Have Temporary Veneers

You don’t have to be on tenterhooks each time you are eating or drinking with temporary veneers on your teeth because there are foods that are perfectly safe to eat with temporary veneers. The Parker CO dentist recommends foods that are soft and won’t stain the veneers. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Eggs
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Pasta
  • Soft bread
  • Bananas
  • Chicken
  • Soft canned food

Permanent Veneers

While temporary veneers aren’t built to last, permanent veneers are made from carefully selected materials that will last for long. For example, high-grade porcelain can last for up to two decades, and it resists staining quite well. Permanent veneers aren’t easily damaged, so your dietary options will widen once the temporaries are removed and replaced with the permanent veneers. However, permanent veneers aren’t indestructible, so care needs to be taken to avoid the foods that could damage these veneers. Those foods and habits include:

  • Dark liquids, such as red wine and coffee, should only be taken in moderation since they have the potential to stain your permanent veneers eventually.
  • Extremely hard foods, such as popcorn kernels and hard nuts
  • Alcoholic beverages can gradually damage the cement used to attach the veneers onto your teeth, so Parker CO’s best dentist recommends that you limit your alcohol intake.
  • Tobacco products can deliver a double whammy to your teeth and dental veneers. For example, tobacco has chemicals that can react with and loosen the bonding material used to affix your veneers. Secondly, tobacco (whether in cigarettes, snuff, chewing tobacco, or any other related product) will cause your veneers to become discolored. Staying away from tobacco products is, therefore, your best bet to long-lasting and esthetically appealing veneers.

Taking Care of Your Dental Veneers

It goes without saying that the above are only recommendations, and the degree to which each patient implements them will vary — for example, many people like drinking pigmented drinks, such as coffee or red wine. To limit the detrimental effects of these drinks, our friend Dr. Brian Leeson, a dentist in St. Petersburg, Fl, recommends that you rinse your mouth with plain water immediately after consuming dark liquids or berries. You can then wait for half an hour and brush your teeth. The point in taking these steps is that you will reduce the amount of time that those pigmented substances remain in contact with your teeth, so the likelihood of staining will reduce. Taking these drinks with a straw can also reduce how much contact happens between the drink and your teeth or veneers.

It is also a good habit to cut all your food into small pieces and chew it slowly. This will reduce the amount of stress to which your teeth and veneers are exposed. If you can’t resist eating particularly hard food, such as tough meat, cut it into small pieces as recommended earlier. You can chew it using your back teeth since these are designed for that task, and most veneers are placed on the front teeth (for aesthetic purposes).

If you are careful, your dental veneers will last a long time. Contact us at Green Dental Care if you have any questions about getting dental veneers. Our experienced team will give you all the answers that you need to make an informed decision.

Dental Implants vs. Bridges

dental implants vs. bridges

Dental Implants vs. Bridges

dental implants vs. bridges

Two popular options that many people consider when they want to replace missing teeth are dental bridges and dental implants. The key question which each person wants to answer is, “Which option is right for me?” This article discusses dental implants vs. bridges and other related questions.

How Dental Implants Work

A dental implant is an artificial root of a tooth anchored in the position left by the missing tooth. The implants are usually made from titanium, a metal which has distinguished itself as being readily accepted by the body and its high durability. Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, explains that after the implant has been surgically placed, a temporary covering is placed on it as osseointegration (a process through which the dental implant fuses with your jawbone) takes place. Osseointegration can take up to six months to be completed, but this is time well spent because the outcome is a very stable and long-lasting prosthetic. The dental experts at Green Dental Care will remove the protective covering on the implant and replace it with a temporary crown once osseointegration has taken place. This temporary crown has a base which guides the gum on how to grow around the implant. The final stage of this process entails removing the temporary crown and placing a permanent crown in its place.

How Dental Bridges Work

Picture a bridge on a river if you want to grasp how a dental bridge works. The bridge on the river is supported on both sides of the river and the middle of the bridge is suspended over the water. Similarly, a dental bridge replaces a missing tooth by relying on the surrounding teeth to provide support to the artificial tooth. A crown is placed on the neighboring tooth on either side of the gap and the crown taking the place of the missing tooth fills the gap. The process of getting a dental bridge typically takes a shorter time than the time needed to get a dental implant. However, Dr. Chris Green explains that a dental bridge can be seen as more invasive because the neighboring teeth onto which crowns are to be placed have to be filed down to create room for those crowns. This step is irreversible.

Are You Eligible?

Dental bridges and dental implants both have some requirements which one must meet before being found fit for these restorations. Your eligibility will be ascertained during your initial consultation with Dr. Chris Green.

Experts usually wait until someone is passed adolescence in order to be eligible for dental implantation. This milestone is necessary because an implant should be placed when the individual has passed the stage when their bones are still growing. Your dentists at Green Dental Care will also use a CT scan or an x-ray to assess the bone quality and density for successful dental implant placement. People with insufficient bone mass may undergo a bone graft so that ample support for the implant is available. Research has shown that smoking increases the risk of dental implant failure, so you will be advised to quit smoking before dental implantation can take place. People with cancer, diabetes or periodontal disease may need to have those conditions managed before dental implantation.

Eligibility for dental bridges isn’t as restrictive as that for implants because the process is, in some respects, less invasive than dental implantation. The health and stability of the surrounding teeth is the most important eligibility factor, according to Dr. Chris Green. For example, tooth decay may render the neighboring teeth too weak to take on the task of supporting the dental bridge. Additional procedures may be required to fix any issues which may compromise the ability of those neighboring teeth to support the bridge.

The Cost of Dental Bridges & Dental Implants

Many times, patients opt for implants or bridges depending on their immediate ability to pay for either one of those procedures. However, the cost can be a tricky factor to base your decision upon because the price tag you see may not tell the whole story about the cost of these options.

For example, the process of getting a dental implant may cost twice the cost of a dental bridge. This cost excludes the cost of any other procedures, such as bone grafting, which may be needed before you get your restorations.

However, the experts at Green Dental Care in Parker, CO caution that sticker shock should not lead you to discard implants as an option. This is because if well cared for, dental implants can last an entire lifetime. We asked our friend, Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, about the ROI of dental implants. Dr. Kacos says, “Dental implants have incredible durability which makes them more cost-effective in the long term since dental bridges aren’t as durable and will need to be replaced after 10-20 years. The time and money which you spend on replacement bridges can turn out to be higher than what is required for a one-time investment in dental implants.”

Have you lost a tooth or teeth and want to explore tooth replacement options? Contact Green Dental Care and talk to one of our professionals about your needs. Dr. Chris Green and his team will examine you and make recommendations regarding the most cost-effective way to restore your smile.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign Near Me

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign Near Me

Invisalign refers to customized clear aligners which are exchanged approximately every fortnight for a duration that can last anywhere from six to eighteen months, or even longer depending on how severe the misalignment of the patient’s teeth is. Invisalign aligners facilitate orthodontic treatment because the aligners gradually move your teeth until you get your perfect smile. Invisalign is made by taking a mold of the patient’s teeth and then using a computer system to generate clear aligners. The dental impressions are taken by an orthodontist or a dentist in Parker CO.

Invisalign vs. Metal Braces

You may be wondering how Invisalign aligners compare with the traditional metal braces. Dr. Chris Green, a renowned dentist in Parker CO, explains that Invisalign was designed to address the many shortcomings of traditional braces. For example, traditional braces make it harder to maintain oral hygiene since food particles can get stuck underneath the metal wires in the braces. Invisalign gets rid of this inconvenience because the clear aligners can be removed if you want to eat or brush and floss your teeth. Invisalign is also more discreet when compared to traditional braces. This could explain why they are a major hit among adults who want to straighten their teeth without moving around with visible braces in their mouth. We asked our friend, Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO about that Invisalign is gentler on the wearer because the aligners are made from soft plastic, unlike traditional braces with metallic wires which often hurt the wearer’s gums and lips.

Potential Limitations of Invisalign

While every patient would want to get Invisalign, this option isn’t for everyone, as the dental experts at Green Dental Care explain. The clear aligners are ideal for correcting minor bite issues and misalignment, so anyone with a severe orthodontic challenge may not benefit from Invisalign. Another potential shortcoming of Invisalign is that the trays may not do a good job of shifting the positions of the roots of the teeth at the back of the mouth (the molars). For cases where molars with deep roots have to be repositioned, traditional metal braces are still the option of choice. Ironically, one of the key advantages of Invisalign can also become a potential shortcoming. While the removability of these clear aligners is seen as an advantage over traditional braces, this same attribute can also create the potential for delayed completion of the orthodontic treatment if a patient removes the aligner to eat or brush and then forgets to place the tray back in the mouth.

Am I Eligible for Invisalign?

Each orthodontic patient has their own unique circumstances and condition. Consequently, it is best to see Dr. Chris Green for an evaluation in order to get professional advice about your suitability for Invisalign. If you suffer from minor bite issues, such as a mild overbite or crossbite, chances are Invisalign may help to resolve the issue. If for any reason, you are found unsuitable to undergo orthodontic treatment using Invisalign, the capable professionals at Green Dental Care will recommend a remedy that is suitable for you.