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Dr. Libbi Finnessy

About Dr. Libbi Finnessy

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What Causes Teeth Stains and How to Fix Your Stained Teeth

 

Types of Discolorations

Teeth stains and discolorations occur for many reasons, including food consumption choices, oral hygiene, and the use of certain medications. They generally appear on the surface of the tooth or the lower side of the tooth enamel. The dentist has identified three main categories of teeth stains: 

Extrinsic Teeth Discoloration: An extrinsic tooth stain is a discoloration on the surface of a tooth. This occurs when the teeth come in contact with pigmented foods or drinks. These pigments then build up around the teeth in the form of stain particles. This strain is generally caused by the use of tobacco or by drinking coffee, tea, wine, or cola. Such stains can be cleared with either regular dental cleaning or brushing with whitening toothpaste.

Intrinsic Teeth Discoloration: Intrinsic teeth stains are natural discolorations below the surface of the tooth. This occurs when stain particles get through the exterior of the tooth and gather within the enamel. Excessive use of fluoride can result in intrinsic stains, especially in small children. As this is a natural tooth stain, it is difficult to remove – but it is not impossible. An intrinsic tooth discoloration would require bleaching by a professional or using teeth-whitening products at home. 

Age-Related Teeth Discoloration: Age-related teeth discoloration is a result of both intrinsic and extrinsic tooth staining. The core of your teeth, the dentin, naturally yellows over time. As we grow old, the enamel that covers the teeth becomes thin, allowing the yellowed dentin to show through.  This coupled with the consumption of certain foods, beverages, and tobacco throughout one’s life can cause one’s teeth to discolor with age.

 

What causes stained teeth?

 

  • Tobacco: Use of tobacco in any form, be it smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco, contributes to stained teeth.

 

  • Poor Oral Care: Poor dental care and oral hygiene (such as a lack of daily brushing or flossing), will lead to discoloration.

 

  • Food & Drink: Coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, some fruits, and vegetables are proven causes of discolored teeth.

 

  • Trauma or Disease: Any trauma or disease that affects the enamel development in infants – either during the developmental stage in the womb or while their teeth are growing – can cause discolored teeth. Trauma and diseases that affect adult teeth, such as radiation, can also cause stained teeth. 

 

  • Medications and Treatments: Some medical treatments including antihistamines, chemotherapy, and some antipsychotic drugs, can also cause teeth discoloration.

 

How White should my Teeth be?

It can be difficult to tell how white teeth should be, especially since some teeth discolorations are natural and there is no universal standard of teeth whiteness.  A study conducted in 2004 showed that even dental professionals have different standards on tooth whiteness when evaluating the same set of teeth. Nevertheless, you should still consult with your dentist on dental care and teeth cleaning.  

Teeth-whitening products also have different standards of teeth whitening. One method of checking the effectiveness of any Teeth-whitening product involves taking high-resolution images of your teeth before, during, and after applying the product, and then judge the whitening effects based on a decrease in yellow/redness in the teeth, and increase in lightness in the teeth.

How to Remove Teeth Stains

Luckily, there are methods to address and prevent discolored teeth. 

You need to maintain a regular oral health routine. This includes daily brushing and flossing, visiting your dentist twice a month, and limiting your consumption of teeth-staining foods and drinks. Taking good care of your teeth will keep them looking clean and bright.

Regardless of the type of tooth stain you may have, there are many over-the-counter teeth whitening products available to help fix your stain. Ask your dentist for input on what kinds of teeth whitening products to use. 

Regular dental check-ups and conscious consumption of food and drinks is also an important part of dental care. Remember to do these little things to avoid teeth discoloration. 

Keep caring, keep smiling! 

 

Book an appointment today or call (425)641-3311

 

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All you need to know about Dental Bridges

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What are Dental Bridges and How Do They Work? A dental bridge “is a custom-made replacement tooth or teeth that fill the space where one or more teeth are missing. This bridge retains the natural shape of your face.” Why would someone need a bridge? Sometimes due to an injury or poor oral hygiene, teeth can be lost. A missing tooth will give an unsightly gap that could be more than a cosmetic concern.    Other benefits of Dental Bridges
  • A simple and minimal procedure that can enhance the look of your teeth
  • It improves speech that can be affected by missing teeth
  • It eliminates problems you might experience when you’re eating
A missing tooth can cause a host of problems, as teeth are made to work together. A missing tooth is a serious matter. With a missing tooth, there is space leading to tilting surrounding teeth, change in shape of the facial jawline and also stress on the remaining teeth causing pain and damage. The other risks associated with missing teeth are:
    • Putting other teeth at higher risk for tooth decay and gum disease.
    • The bone may shrink making the face look older.
  • You could also experience pain when chewing or discomfort in your jaw.
Understanding how a bridge works Let’s look at how a bridge is placed… Typically, the dentist makes use of the existing natural teeth on both sides of your missing tooth (or teeth) to help hold your bridge in place. The bridge gives a natural appearance while helping to restore the tooth. The dentist usually checks the teeth on both sides of the gap that needs the bridge. By taking an impression of the teeth or the gap, the same is sent to the dental lab for making the bridge. Most often, a temporary bridge is placed until the permanent bridge is ready. Once the permanent bridge is ready, the dentist fits it in the gap and adjusts the same with cement if need be, the bridge here is permanent and can be taken out only by a dental expert. Types of bridges | The options available
  • Bridges are made from metal, ceramics, or a combination of the two. Looking at individual cases, requirements and budget involved the dentist will discuss the various options and suggest the best for you. 
  • A traditional bridge makes use of fake teeth held in place with crowns that are cemented to the teeth surrounding the tooth that is missing.
  • Yet, another option is a cantilever bridge. Here, it is supported by a crown on only one side. 
  • Other options include using porcelain or metal framework to hold the fake tooth in place. 
  • The final type is an implant-supported bridge.  Many times, dental implants may be used to support a bridge. The implants are surgically placed in the jaw and bone helps hold the implants in place.
Caring for your bridge A bridge can fail if the support teeth or the jawbone is damaged by dental disease. Here are a few tips that will help you in marinating proper dental care:
  1. Using a floss threader
  2. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss every day. 
  3. Make sure you clean between your teeth and under the bridge. 
  4. Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
  5. Consume a proper, healthy diet.
Other important notes The procedure is not surgical, and if need be, a topical numbing jelly can be placed on your gums to minimize the discomfort of the shot. There could be some discomfort or soreness in your jaw that can be tackled with over-the-counter pain relievers. Placing an ice pack on the outside of your jaw will help too! Recovery details  The recovery process is simple and minimal, to say the least. Most patients have no trouble adapting to the bridge, so you can eat normally soon after. For any discomfort, the dentist can fix by performing an adjustment. We at Bellevue Dental Health believe that a beautiful and healthy smile helps build the foundation for overall dental health and confidence. So it is important to take charge of your smile and our team will offer their best care to achieve what you desire for your smile. Discover how dental bridges will enhance your appearance and self-confidence with us! Schedule an appointment today by calling (425)641-3311 or by visiting https://www.bellevuedentalhealth.com/
15-10-2019-

Dental Crowns: Why dentists advise dental crowns!!!

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Let’s get to the basics: What are dental crowns?

Whenever a tooth gets damaged or weak, dentists suggest a dental crown. The dental crown is like a cap used to protect damaged teeth. For these, impressions of the teeth are taken and customized crowns are made using special equipment. Typically, used to restore a tooth’s shape and improve its strength and performance. The best part about crown caps is that “The crown feels and looks like a natural tooth.” A crown procedure usually spans two appointments.  However, the patient has a lot to be thankful for once the dental crown is fixed since a crown relieves tooth pain and protects a damaged tooth. A dental professional is the best person who can advise when and why a patient needs a crown. The dentist must discuss the procedure as well as the materials that work best. The best dental professionals are the ones who present their patient’s comprehensive information, procedures, techniques before starting any treatment. This is especially true for crowns. Dental crowns are used for children and adults, to correct dental problems.

There are different types of dental crowns:

  • All-porcelain or all-ceramic dental crowns are best as they have a natural appearance and good for people with metal allergies.
  • Porcelain combined with metal crowns is strong and durable.
  • Composite resin crowns are inexpensive but weaker too
  • Metals and metal alloys make permanent dental crowns. 

Now, let us look at why a dentist will suggest dental crowns

When a tooth is decayed or infected, a root canal is suggested and upon completion, a crown is used to restore strength to the weakened tooth. Dental crowns that protect and prevent a weak tooth from breaking. When a tooth is discolored or an unpleasant filling a crown can be used to cover it up, too. Crowns are used as part of cosmetic dentistry. Cracked teeth lead to extreme sensitivity and the tooth crown protects the structure of the tooth offers relief and makes the tooth much stronger. They are used to protect cracked, worn down, or weak teeth. The crown is also used as part of a permanent restoration. They protect the tooth that doesn’t have much of a natural structure.
  • A crown enhances the appearance of a dental bridge.
  • A crown is used to complete a root canal and dental implant procedure.
  • Temporary stainless steel crowns for children protect the teeth that are at high risk of decay.
  • Dental crowns are important corrective procedure for Protection and Pain Prevention

Everything You Need To Know About Dental Crowns

Dental crowns should last on average from 10 to 20 years. Crowns, however, can be fractured hence proper brushing and flossing around crowned teeth ensures they do need replacement too often. 

Does the procedure involve pain?

For the procedure, the tooth that is being restored is numbed with lidocaine or another local anesthetic. Post-procedure, once the anesthesia has worn off, the patient may feel some sensitivity with the temporary crown or some soreness in the gums around the tooth. The pain is very minimal though and shouldn’t last long.

Post-Dental Crown Care

  • Avoid hard or chewy foods
  • Wear a mouthguard if you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth
  • Good dental care like regular brushing and flossing will prevent decay and gum disease 
  • When done properly, a crown provides strength and stability, protecting the tooth underneath. The ultimate goal is to protect the tooth and reduce the chance of gum recession
To get the best of dental care from an affordable and trusted dentist call (425)641-3311 or make an appointment Bellevue Dental Health. Bellevue Dental Health offers reasonably priced family dentistry services. Here, our team of experts are gentle, compassionate and provide most dental services. Bellevue Dental Health offers a wide range of basic preventative care services, general dentistry and specialized procedures such as complete dental reconstruction. We believe that the patient must be happy and smile as he walks out of our center. For this, we strive to provide the best, affordable dental care and completely personal care to understand the needs and requirements of the patient. We at Bellevue Dental Health believe that a beautiful and healthy smile helps build the foundation for overall dental health and confidence. So it is important to take charge of your smile and our team will offer their best care to achieve what you desire for your smile. Discover how dental crowns will enhance your appearance and self-confidence with Bellevue Dental Health. Schedule an appointment today by calling (425)641-3311 or by visiting Bellevue Dental Health
26-09-2019

How do Teeth Look Before and After Veneers?

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Looking for options that can improve your smile and make you confident? Dental veneers are here…

Do you have poorly shaped teeth or a gap and want them to look better? Well, “dental veneers are a possible solution to help you achieve the look you desire.” Typically, veneers are used to treat a number of different cosmetic concerns. They usually last for more than a decade, depending on the type of veneer you choose, making them a good investment that can make you more confident in your smile. Simply put, “Veneers are thin coverings that are placed over the front (visible) part of the tooth, giving the teeth a more classic look. The best part is they look natural”.

Dental Veneers

Sometimes, people want something simple, such as improving a smile. Dental veneers help in improving the look and smile. Veneers are made of either porcelain or composite resin material. They are used in a number of cases. Veneers can be used to correct a wide range of dental issues, such as:
  • Whitening stained teeth 
  • Rectifying chipped or worn teeth, crooked or misshapen teeth
  • Correcting uneven spaces or a large gap between teeth

What are the different types of veneers?

There are few options and each type of veneer has its own benefits. However, your dentist will help you choose the material that is best for you. 

Porcelain Veneers

A porcelain veneer is made up of a thin shell, which is custom-made to fit on the tooth. With porcelain veneers, there are many advantages: 
  • They are durable and fit for long-term wear
  • They look natural 
  • The tooth enamel that needs to be removed is less for the procedure
  • They are stain-free, mostly

Composite Resin Veneers

“A composite resin veneer is made from a tooth-colored filling material bonded to the tooth.” Advantages of composite resin veneers:
  • Less tooth enamel is removed 
  • The entire procedure takes less time, sometimes just one visit shall do.
  • Cost-effective
  • Easy to manage and fix.

The Pros of Using Veneers

The most obvious benefit to veneers is the improved confidence that comes from having a flawless smile. With veneers being specifically molded for your teeth, its natural look is something that many prefer. Veneers also mean no additional drilling or shaping is needed and no special maintenance is required  Veneers can make any set of teeth appear bright white! These pros make veneers sound pretty great, right? Well, there are a few other things to consider before making the decision. 

Points to Remember

While the rest of your teeth will naturally change over time, the veneer will not, which can lead to awkward differences in your smile. This can be dealt with regular visits to the dentist. With this, you can ensure your smile stays consistent for as long as you have veneers. Veneers are also more prone to chipping and cracking. They are not recommended for people with habits like biting their nails, grinding their teeth, or chewing on ice. It is advisable that people correct such habits that can harm dental health in the future. Finally, teeth can still decay while they are under a veneer. Regular dental visits are a must for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Before one decides to get veneers done remember to treat any mouth disease for a complete effective procedure! Also, discuss all your expectations and treatment options with your dentist. 

Once the Veneers are Fixed:

  • Avoid biting your fingernails and chewing on hard objects.
  • Inform your dentist know if it does not feel right after the veneer has been placed. 
  • Keep your teeth and gums clean by brushing and flossing each day. 

Other Factors

The cost of your veneers depends on factors like the type of veneers you’re choosing, what brand name your dentist has available, etc.  Unlike other dental procedures, the recovery process doesn’t take an extended amount of time. A preliminary appointment with your dentist to discuss which options are right for you and how many veneers you want to have placed is a great idea.  We at Bellevue Dental Health believe that a beautiful and healthy smile helps build the foundation for overall dental health and confidence. Our team will offer their best care to help you find your perfect smile. Discover how dental veneers will enhance your appearance and self-confidence with us! Schedule an appointment today by calling (425) 641-3311 or by visiting https://www.bellevuedentalhealth.com/
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What are the benefits of invisible braces?

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Crooked or misaligned teeth may look unsightly but the damage they cause due to improper cleaning is much more serious. The risks include periodontal disease, gum and bone damage, as well as tooth loss. Dentists across the world suggest braces as the best way to properly align your teeth.  However, conventional braces are prominently visible, uncomfortable and can be painful to wear.  Adults and teens can be especially embarrassed to wear them. 

Benefits of Invisalign

Here is the modern solution: Invisible braces! The benefits of using invisible braces such as the Invisalign system is more than getting a beautiful smile. These braces are removable and offer a host of advantages, including reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

First things first.

Having a perfect pair of straight teeth is something we all want. And if they’re healthy, it’s even more attractive. When orthodontic problems are handled by a professional, a lot of problems such as bad breath (halitosis), gingivitis (gum inflammation) and tooth sensitivity can be prevented and resolved.  “Straightening crooked teeth can have an important impact on overall dental health.” For a very long time, patients only had the option of traditional wire braces for aligning their teeth. Today, we have a great solution with Invisalign that offers flexibility, comfort, and aesthetics and gives the much-needed confidence to the patient.  Let us now look at how Invisalign braces seem to win over dentists and people alike The health benefits of clear aligners like Invisalign are many:

Traditional braces vs. Invisalign braces

Today, invisible braces are sought after because they are designed for comfort and convenience. They are removable and this is yet another feature that makes Invisalign hugely popular. Metal braces can hurt and are visible to all. With Invisalign, comfort and ease is unparalleled. 
  • When you do away with the prominently visible braces you exude confidence.
  • One of Invisalign’s advantages is that it allows the users to remove their aligners whenever they choose for up to two hours per day. 
  • Unlike traditional braces that often trap food with Invisalign, you can simply remove the trays when you would normally brush to access your teeth and replace the aligners when you’re done.
  • Invisalign users can participate in a whole lot of extra-curricular activities such as sports, play musical instruments, and more that is not always an option with uncomfortable wire braces.
  • Invisalign aligners come without the painful brackets and wires. They are made from medical-grade polyurethane resin that is invisible, safe to use and extremely flexible.
  • With Invisalign, you can brush and floss your teeth regularly. Whereas traditional braces get food trapped in the wires and brackets, leading to gum disease.
  • Invisalign aligners have a smooth edge that gives the user comfort and provides control over the entire process of teeth straightening.
  • The treatment duration for metal braces generally can take up to 5 years. But with Invisalign, it takes about a year and a half to straighten your teeth.

Confidence!

There’s evidence that says “youngsters can particularly benefit from Invisalign in the form of a boost to self-confidence. Problems like protruding or crooked teeth affect many teens and can result in feeling unattractive. Teenagers who experience lack of self-confidence during adolescence are more vulnerable to negative influences of their peers and are more likely to become depressed.” Invisalign can be the answer to a host of dental problems. Fortunately, the treatment cost for Invisalign is the same as that of conventional braces and is covered by many orthodontic insurance plans. Overall, Invisalign offers distinct advantages over conventional metal braces. As you can see, the benefits of Invisalign braces are numerous. Why wait? Make your dental procedure appointment today!  If you are looking for a dentist with Invisalign certification and experience, Bellevue Dental Health is your destination. Our dentists are specialized in Invisalign technology and are trained to provide you with the best fitting, comfortable and beautiful aligners that will correct your smile and give you the confidence to take over the world! We at Bellevue Dental Health believe that a beautiful and healthy smile helps build the foundation for overall dental health and confidence. So it is important to take charge of your smile and our team will offer their best care to achieve what you desire for your smile. Discover how Invisalign braces will enhance your appearance and self-confidence with us! Schedule an appointment today by calling (425)641-3311 or by visiting https://www.bellevuedentalhealth.com/
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How Do You Treat Receding Gums?

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Receding gums is a growing concern for patients and dentists alike. Read more to know all about this dental condition…

Receding Gums: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Receding gums is quite a common problem that causes gaps to form between the gum and tooth. Dental problems that arise out of this are multiple, with the primary issue being build up of disease-causing bacteria. With this bacteria built up, there are many associated risks such as damage to the surrounding tissue and bone structures of the teeth — leading to tooth loss. Simply put, a healthy gum structure is pink and consistent around the teeth. However, receding gums often look inflamed with the tissue wearing away, exposing the tooth.

Diagnosing Receding Gums

A dental hygienist or dentist can usually spot receding gums right away. While the dental problem is quite common, many are not aware of this condition for a long time. However, here are some symptoms of receding gums:

  • Long Teeth: This visible symptom gives an appearance of lengthened teeth.
  • Exposed Roots: This is caused by harsh brushing of teeth and can make them extremely sensitive making the roots vulnerable.
  • Loose teeth: With receding gums, your teeth will get loose as the gums are affected due to loss of structure.
  • In addition to what’s mentioned above, there are a few more noticeable symptoms such as bad breath, swollen, red gums and a weird taste in the mouth.

Causes of Receding Gums

Numerous factors can cause your gums to recede, with periodontal disease being the main cause of gum recession. Other causes may include genetics, brushing teeth aggressively (causing the enamel to wear), improper dental hygiene, fluctuating hormones, use of tobacco, smoking, teeth grinding, health conditions like diabetes, and trauma to the mouth. 

Treating Receding Gums

Deep cleaning:

Gum recession is not reversible; however, you can keep the problem from getting worse. Minor gum recession is easily treated by an expert/dentist with deep cleaning in the affected area. Here, plaque and tartar is removed and the exposed root area is smoothed over.  A dose of antibiotics are also prescribed to kill any remnants of bacteria. If the condition is severe, receding gums surgery may be required.

Switch brushing style:

If hard brushing or poor dental hygiene is the reason, discuss the same with your dentist and switch to healthier brushing and flossing habits.

Mouth wash:

Using a daily mouth rinse that fights plaque or any interdental cleaner may also help keep hard-to-reach areas clean.

Dental procedure:

For some serious gum recession problems, the dentists may require to perform occasional deep cleaning treatments called “scaling and root planing”. For other serious cases, a procedure called gum grafting can restore lost gum tissue. As the name suggests, the procedure involves taking gum tissue from somewhere else in the mouth and attaching it to the place where the tissue is lost.

Braces, bands:

In many other cases, the gap between teeth is treated with braces.  Depending on the size, cause, and location of the space between your teeth, the dentist will help you choose the best procedure to fix the gap or gaps in your teeth with braces or tooth bands. 

Simple ways to prevent gum recession

The simplest way is good oral hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing is the best way to prevent gum recession. Lifestyle changes such as not smoking, having a balanced diet, and eating fresh fruits and vegetables will go a long way in maintaining healthy mouth health.

The best advice to anybody would be to visit the dentist at least twice a year to detect problems early on, maintain dental hygiene and live a problem free dental life.  

Follow your dentist’s instructions about proper oral hygiene. The earlier you or your dentist can spot problems, the more likely you’ll be able to prevent them from getting worse.

If you are considering fixing the gaps in your teeth, and want to get it right the first time, set up an appointment for a consultation. If your gums are receding or you have other dental concerns, it is best to get it checked by one of Bellevue Dental’s experienced cosmetic dentists. We have highly skilled and experienced dentist team who will guide you to the optimal solution.

For more information, visit https://www.longevityexpertise.com/

You can book an appointment at LongevityExpertise.com/contact/

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Why Are Dental Implants Best For Tooth Replacement?

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Our teeth are one of the strongest body parts and are quite essential. They help us chew food, speak and provide good aesthetic value to our face. However, a natural set of teeth may be lost due to various reasons, like tooth decay or gum disease. These missing teeth must  be replaced, as they are responsible for some important functions.

Teeth made of ceramic or zirconia, are considered common options for replacement of missing teeth. However,  the most recent advancement in the world of dentistry is a dental implant, which are becoming widely popular.

What is a dental implant?

Natural teeth are made up of a visible portion known as the crown and lower portion known as the root. The roots of teeth are embedded into the jawbone and are not seen.

A dental implant also consists of parts similar to the natural tooth. The root portion of the dental implant is made up of titanium material, which is easily compatible with the jaw bone and strong enough to withstand chewing forces. Titanium has a special quality of fusing with the bone, which is known as ‘osseo-integration’.

Why dental implants?

The answer is simple. Dental implants function the same way as your real teeth. Instead of natural tooth roots, your tooth is held in with a titanium implant post that is surgically implanted in your jawbone. Over time, your jawbone heals in and around the titanium implant, through a process called osseo-integration. The strength of your jawbone, and your jaw’s ability to heal around the implant directly influences the strength and stability of the implant. Implants also have excellent stability. They provide optimal support and are very comfortable. Moreover, they are one of the most aesthetic tooth replacement options.

Who can get implants?

While living with missing teeth can be distressing and difficult, dental implant surgery is a completely comfortable procedure. It is minimally invasive and leaves little to no post-procedure discomfort. For most people, the placement process is very simple. In more complex cases, the procedure can span over several months. However, people with basic cases can  get same day dental implants. Thanks to advances in dentistry, same day dental implants are becoming more common. To see if you’re a candidate for treatment, you first have to get a complete dental examination. If you have a sufficient amount of jawbone, you can have the procedure at any time. If not, you will need to strengthen the bone with bone grafts, which can increase the cost of dental implants.

Implant placement procedure

Dental implant placement is a simple procedure. There are  3 basic steps.

Step 1

The first step is placing an implant post, or the root. It is fixed deep into the gums so that it can support the implant, just like the root of a natural tooth. It is a minor surgery and is done under local anaesthesia.  At this point your tooth may still appear missing, as the upper portion of the crown has not been replaced yet. A type of temporary cover prior to replacement is done for appearance, if required.

After this step is done, there is a waiting period for bone growth around the metal post. During this time, the process of jaw bone fusing to the implant material begins. This is known as osseo-integration.  During this process, the jawbone grows in and around the surface of the dental implant and locks it in place. The process can take several weeks or months. It will mainly provide strong support for the new artificial tooth.

Step 2

Your dentist will do a thorough assessment of the bone growth with the help of an x-ray or a CBCT and decide whether you are ready for the next step. Once the osseo-integration is complete, you will need to place the upper portion (support for the crown), known as the abutment. This is where the crown will eventually be  attached.

In some cases, the abutment is attached to the dental implant post when the post is implanted. That means you may skip this surgical step. Some people don’t like that appearance and prefer to have the abutment placed in a separate procedure.

Step 3

After the abutment is placed, your gums will adapt and heal around it. This will take another week or two.  Then the artificial tooth, matching the shade and colour of your other natural teeth, can be attached to the abutment. Your dentist may take certain measurements and impressions during the entire procedure. These impressions are mainly used to fabricate the crown of your implanted new tooth. The crown can’t be placed until your jawbone has enough strength to support the use of the new tooth.

At Bellevue Dental Health, we believe in providing the best services to give you a beautiful and healthy smile. You can discuss with our team to know the best tooth replacement options for you. Our surgeons are highly skilled and we promise you affordable and durable dental implants. Our aim is to create a healthy smile for you, that can help build the foundation for overall health and confidence. So, make a decision today to have a functionally sound smile.

Discover how cosmetic dentistry will enhance your appearance and self-confidence with us!

Request an appointment today at https://www.bellevuedentalhealth.com/ or by calling (425) 641-3311.

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What Are The Various Features of Cosmetic Dentistry?

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Both men and women consider their personality to be their most important asset, and a smile is undoubtedly a big  part of it. Whether it is used in an interview, giving a presentation or making a good impression, your smile plays a crucial role. As the desire of having an aesthetically appealing smile has increased, newer cosmetic dentistry procedures and trends have been discovered and practiced by dentists.

Features of cosmetic dentistry include

  • It is a combination of art and science in  re-designing a smile.
  • It preserves your natural tooth structure.
  • It comprises of simple, as well as advanced procedures, to improve  your smile’s aesthetic .
  • It preserves the biological health of teeth.
  • It comprises of techniques that are unique to patient requirements.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures in a nutshell…..

Veneers

A veneer is something that very closely resembles your natural tooth. Unlike crowns, veneers keep your teeth intact and require minimum tooth preparation. Custom-made veneers are capable of resisting coffee and tea stains, as well as cigarette smoke. Veneers can help teeth look lighter, can correct minor flaws, overlaps and small gaps. Taking care of veneers is also quite simple. All you have to do is brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly.

Teeth Whitening

Also known as teeth bleaching. This procedure can brighten and whiten your teeth from discoloration and staining. The procedure can be done in the dental office or at home, however,  it is still necessary to consult a dentist in order to know if your teeth are suited for whitening and to what kind of procedures should be followed.

Dental Implants 

A dental implant is an artificial unit which best mimics your natural tooth. Implants are usually made of titanium and are surgically placed into the jawbone, where a  tooth is missing. Unlike a dental bridge, an implant is permanent. They are designed to act as the root of a tooth and anchor an artificial tooth or teeth such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Orthodontic Treatment 

Gone are the days when orthodontics was just for kids. Increasingly  more adults are seeking treatment from orthodontists for getting their teeth aligned. If you have  crooked or misaligned teeth and are looking to improve your smile, then orthodontics is the way to go.

Cosmetic Dental Crowns 

Crowns, also referred to as caps, are custom made to fit over your whole tooth after a  cosmetic dentist has prepared it. They are usually made out of acrylic or porcelain that has been fused with metal to withstand biting pressure. Crowns can be used in cosmetic dentistry to treat teeth that are poorly shaped, badly decayed, broken, chipped,  had large fillings, or to cover spaces in between teeth.

Tooth coloured fillings

Bonding is the process in which tooth-colored materials or fillings are adhered (bonded) to the tooth. This is a procedure that can be used to repair or improve the appearance of a tooth that has been badly stained, broken, or chipped.

How can you benefit from cosmetic dentistry?

  • Improves dental hygiene

After getting a cosmetic dental procedure done, you will adore your new smile! With all the compliments you receive, you won’t want to ruin your new smile. Thus, patients end up maintaining their dental hygiene better than before. This involves brushing and flossing regularly, visiting your dentist every 6 months and making healthier food choices.  

  • Strengthens your teeth

Not only do cosmetic dentistry procedures improve the appearance of your smile, they also improve your overall dental health.  Dentists generally perform cosmetic dentistry procedures if your health is in good shape. Many cosmetic treatments actually restore your teeth. When you receive porcelain veneers or dental bonding that covers cracks or chips in your teeth, you are actually protecting your teeth from future damage.

  • Improves  your self-confidence

This is one of the most obvious benefits of cosmetic dentistry. The most common reason why patients seek cosmetic dental treatment is because they are unhappy with their smile. This can prevent people from feeling under-confident. After undergoing cosmetic dentistry treatment, patients find themselves to be more confident and to start to excel in various realms of life.

  • Make you look younger

Another benefit of cosmetic dentistry is it will help you look younger. This is one of the reasons people choose to consider cosmetic procedures in the first place. Cosmetic dentistry is quite popular amongst middle-aged adults, who want to freshen up their appearance. A whiter and straighter smile can definitely make you look younger.

We at Bellevue Dental Health believe in creating beautiful smiles, just like you want. Our goal  is to create a beautiful, healthy smile that can help build the foundation for overall health and confidence. So, give us a visit  and our team will offer their best services to achieve what you desire for your smile.

To help you have and maintain a great smile and healthy white teeth, Dr. Libbi Finnessy at  Bellevue Dental Health provides Smile Makeover cosmetic dentistry that will make you look and feel your best.

Discover how cosmetic dentistry will enhance your appearance and self-confidence with us!

Request an appointment today at https://www.bellevuedentalhealth.com/ or by calling

(425) 641-3311.

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What are the benefits of cosmetic dentistry?

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A person’s smile is most definitely an inseparable part of their  personality. Not just that, it is an expression of self and happiness as well. So why shy away from flaunting that smile?

The cosmetic dentistry field promises to give the best results in modifying your natural smile, while preserving its health. Cosmetic dentistry is beneficial  to patients in so many ways. Lets find out how.

Some of the common cosmetic dentistry procedures…

Teeth Whitening

It is also known as teeth bleaching. This procedure can brighten and whiten your teeth from discoloration and staining. This procedure can be done in the dental office or at home. However, it is necessary to consult a dentist to know if your teeth are suited for bleaching and what procedures should be followed.

Dental Implants 

A dental implant is an artificial unit that best mimics your natural tooth. Implants are usually made of titanium and are surgically placed into the jawbone where the tooth is missing. Unlike a dental bridge, an implant is permanent. They are  designed to act as the root of the tooth and can anchor an artificial tooth or teeth such as a crown, bridge, or denture.

Dental Veneers and laminates

Veneers and laminates are thin layers made out of porcelain or composite material. They are custom made and cemented to the front side of the tooth. A veneer can be used to correct dental conditions such as a slightly crooked tooth, discoloured teeth, chipped teeth or even to cover spaces in between the teeth.

Orthodontic Treatment 

Gone are the days when orthodontics was just for kids. More and more adults are seeking treatment from orthodontists for getting their teeth aligned. If you have crooked teeth and are looking to improve your smile, then orthodontics is the way to go.

Cosmetic Dental Crowns 

Crowns, also referred to as caps, are custom made to fit over your whole tooth after a  cosmetic dentist has prepared it. They are usually made out of acrylic or porcelain that has been fused to metal to withstand biting pressure. Crowns can be used in cosmetic dentistry to treat teeth that are poorly shaped, badly decayed, broken, chipped, have had large fillings, or to cover spaces in between teeth.

Tooth Bonding

Bonding is the process in which tooth-colored materials or fillings are adhered (bonded) to the tooth. This is a procedure that can be used to repair or improve the appearance of a tooth that has been badly stained, broken, or chipped.

Benefits of cosmetic dentistry

  • Strengthens your teeth

Not only do cosmetic dentistry procedures improve the appearance of your smile, but they also improve your overall dental health. Dentists generally perform cosmetic dentistry procedures if your health is in good shape. Thus, after the procedure you know that your teeth are very healthy. In addition, many cosmetic treatments actually restore your teeth. When you receive porcelain veneers or dental bonding, it covers cracks or chips in your teeth. You are actually protecting your teeth from future damage. When you do an orthodontic treatment, you are correcting your alignment, which prevents uneven wear of your teeth and periodontal problems.

  • Improved dental hygiene

After you get cosmetic dental procedures done, you will adore your new smile! As a result, your cosmetic dentistry treatments will encourage you to keep up with your dental hygiene. This will involve changing in your eating and drinking habits, like avoiding food and drinks that stain your teeth. You will find yourself brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist every 6 months to ensure your smile is perfect and is going to stay that way.

  • Improved self-confidence

   This is one of the most obvious benefits of cosmetic dentistry. Most common reasons why patients seek cosmetic dental treatment is because they are unhappy with their smile. This can prevent them from feeling confident. After undergoing cosmetic dentistry treatment, patients find themselves to be more confident and to start to excel in various realms of life. Your improved appearance will bring you the happiness and confidence you are seeking if you don’t like your current smile.

  • Make you look younger

Another benefit of cosmetic dentistry is it will help you look younger. This is one of the reasons people choose to consider cosmetic procedures. Cosmetic dentistry is quite popular amongst middle-aged adults who want to freshen up their appearance. A whiter and straighter smile can make you look younger.

  • Correct joint malfunctions

Misaligned teeth can give you headaches from joint malfunctions. When you undergo cosmetic dentistry procedures like porcelain veneers or orthodontic treatments, your dentist will help fix your alignment so your teeth come together correctly. This will help prevent  any headaches in the future and protect your teeth from tooth wear, which can lead to damaged teeth and cavities. Properly aligned teeth also ensure healthy gums.

As you can see, the benefits of cosmetic dentistry are numerous. Why wait? Make  your cosmetic dental procedure appointment today!

We at Bellevue Dental Health believe that a beautiful and healthy smile helps build the foundation for overall dental health and confidence. So it is important to take charge of your smile and our team will offer their best care to achieve what you desire for your smile.

To help you obtain and maintain a great smile and healthy white teeth, Dr. Libbi Finnessy of Bellevue Dental Health provides smile makeover cosmetic dentistry that will make you look and feel like your greatest self.

Discover how cosmetic dentistry will enhance your appearance and self-confidence with us!

Schedule  an appointment today by calling (425)641-3311 or by visiting https://www.bellevuedentalhealth.com/

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What to Do Before a Tooth Extraction?

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Tooth extraction is generally not thought of as a pleasant experience. In fact the mere use of the term “tooth extraction” can conjure up the thought of pain, swelling, and discomfort; and probably that’s why people often try to avoid or defer the process for as long as possible. But a loose, broken,  damaged or decayed tooth may require your dentist to perform a dental extraction. However, a tooth extraction procedure can be simple, straight-forward and pain-free with the right dentist.

While your dentist will walk you through the list of do’s and don’ts before and after your tooth extraction treatment, here are some pointers that will help you prepare for the tooth extraction surgery and will make the process more comfortable and successful.

Fast the night before surgery

While your doctor would let you know the exact time you need to fast before your tooth extraction procedure, ideally you should not eat or drink anything for 8 to 12 hours before the surgery. Also, you need to stop smoking 12 hours before and one-day post surgery.

Let your doctor know about your medical history

Make sure your doctor knows about any medical conditions you have well in advance to avoid any complications during your the tooth extraction procedure.  For example, congenital heart disease, bacterial endocarditis, liver disorder, artificial joint replacement, impaired immune system, diabetes or allergy to a particular medicine.

Take your medicine as directed

If your doctor has prescribed medicines to be taken before performing your tooth extraction, make sure to take them on time. These are usually pain relief medicines or steroid drugs that will help reduce inflammation and pain during and after the procedure.

Dress comfortably

Dress in clean, comfortable attire on the day of surgery and remove your jewelry. You should limit or restrict wearing makeup.

Be  accompanied

If possible, it is always best to have a friend or family member with you.  Your companion should drive you home after the surgery — especially if you are on anesthetic sedation medication. Having someone with you can also help relieve preoperative anxiety, and they can provide ‘aftercare’ to help you recuperate after the procedure.

Follow these tips and prepare for your tooth extraction like a pro.  At Bellevue Dental Health, Dr. Libbi Finnessy performs all kinds of tooth extractions with compassion and personalized care. For more information, call us at   425-641-3311 or visit www.bellevuedentalhealth.com and get the highest quality and most caring treatment for your teeth.

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