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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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Best Dental Implants in Bellevue

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If you live in Bellevue, on the Eastside, or even in Seattle, it helps to know which dentists can best help restore your smile… if need be.

If you need dental treatment, especially dental implants, it is important that you choose the right dentist in Bellevue. Dr. Libbi Finnessy of Bellevue Dental Health is one premier dentist performing dental implants on the Eastside. She can work with you to restore lost teeth with dental implants. She also practices a full range of smile-enhancing general and cosmetic dentistry.

Dental implants are often the “go to” option if you have lost teeth due to injury, periodontal disease, or other reasons. At Bellevue Dental Health, Dr. Finnessy can replace your lost teeth through inserting dental implants, so that you can gain fresh confidence and restore normal tooth function.

But what is a dental implant? Well, a dental implant is a cylindrical tapered post made of titanium that works as a substitute for a tooth’s root.

A dental implant is then placed in the jawbone so that it can fuse with your natural bone and become a strong foundation for replacement teeth. Dental implants can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. Dental implants are the closest you can get to natural teeth.

Dental implants are often the best treatment for missing teeth when you are being treated by an experienced dentist, such as Dr. Finnessy. You may be eligible for dental implants if you:

  • Are in good general health;
  • Have one or more missing teeth;
  • Do not suffer from any chronic illness that can interfere with healing;
  • Have a jawbone that will support dental implants – otherwise, bone grafting may be needed in certain cases.

You should consult Dr. Finnessy at her Bellevue dental office. She will work with you based on your dental history, needs and goals, to determine if you are the right candidate for a dental implant. She will also help you determine which type of dental restoration is right for you.

Bellevue Dental Health believes in a treatment philosophy that is incredibly personalized and care-based. Dr. Finnessy is one of the best dental implant specialists in Bellevue. She treats your overall health and listens intently to your needs and concerns. She brings her unique warmth and sense of humor to even the most routine or complicated dental procedure, and dental implants are no exception.

Dr. Libbi Finnessy and her staff employ the latest technology to enhance the quality of your dental care. For example, they use a 3D scanner for making fast, precise digital dental impressions. With a 3D scanner, they can ensure that they insert dental implants that have an exceptionally well-planned and perfectly executed fit and finish.

The experienced team at Bellevue Dental Health have several years of combined experience in the dental field. They don’t just treat you as any other patient, but as a family member and friend. Dr. Finnessy cares for you as a whole person and not just as a number or a patient.

Dr. Libbi ensures that her office is not the typical, sterile space, but is a warm and welcoming environment, where patients feel comfortable, even as they undergo their dental implant procedure. So, if you need the best dental implants in Bellevue or on the Eastside, visit Dr. Finnessy at Bellevue Dental Health for the best treatment possible!

For more information about the best dental implants in Bellevue, contact Dr. Libbi Finnessy of Bellevue Dental Health at 425-641-3311 or at contact@bellevuedentalhealth.com.

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What it takes to be among the Best Dentists in Bellevue

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These days, it takes a lot to be recognized as one of the top dentists in Bellevue, Washington. It takes an uncompromising adherence to quality, a staunch commitment to your patients, and the provisioning of high-quality, caring, dental services every day.

So, why does any dentist rank as one of the best dentists in Bellevue and on the Eastside of Seattle? Well, there are several reasons for this, here are some of them…

  • Great training and qualifications: Top dentists spend years training to practice and hone their craft. They are adept at their profession and continually upgrade their skills and qualifications, learn the latest tools, techniques and procedures to stay current.
  • A warm, supportive, highly-trained,patient-friendly staff and caring office environment: Top dentists in Bellevue and their staff provide patients with a quality of care and warmth that is all-encompassing. All patients are made to feel at ease, not just the first time they visit, but during every single visit. Top dentists truly care about their patients and need to set the tone for their office themselves, with an unparalleled level of patient care and understanding.
  • General and specialized dental services: Top dentists usually provide a full range of general dentistry and cosmetic services, with expertise including porcelain veneers, dental implants, crowns, bridges, and some types of oral surgery. In this high-tech era, top dentists need to use the best and latest equipment to treat your teeth so they can effectively correct a wide range of cosmetic dental problems and improve your smile.
  • Flexible financial options: Top dentists and their team have one mission only – to provide their patients with the best dental care available. They understand that financing your dental care can be difficult, so they help their patients by providing the best dental care at an affordable price. They can also make arrangements for a monthly payment plan in certain instances.
  • A holistic treatment approach: Top dentists take great care of you with every visit. During your first visit, you typically will be introduced to your “dental team”. They will collect and evaluate your medical and dental history, and understand and address your concerns. Your first appointment will typically consist of a comprehensive exam, and any necessary x-rays to understand your oral health needs. Top dentists also take the time to explain some of the latest medical research findings linking proper dental hygiene to superior overall health and wellness.
  • Ongoingengagement with their patients on a continuing basis: Top dentists treat their existing patients with the same degree of care as new patients. They send reminders and remember key details of their patients’lives. Top dentists typically have a large base of loyal patients who continue to visit and get treated for many years. Patients do this because they receive high-quality care and results earn that their trust, and create relationships that last – often for years or even a lifetime.

These are just some of the reasons why top dentists stand out from others. Dr. Libbi Finnessy of Bellevue Dental Health is recognized as one of the top dentists in Bellevue. She exemplifies a commitment to caring for her patients that is truly unparalleled.

So, if you are in a quandary as to which dentist to choose in Bellevue or on the Eastside of Seattle, choose one of the best…opt for Bellevue Dental Health…and know that your dental health and your smile will be in the best hands…

For more information on the different dental services on offer, consult Dr. Libbi Finnessy at 425-641-3311 or at info@bellevuedentalhealth.com or go to our website www.bellevuedentalhealth.com for more information.

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How does gum disease affect systemic health?

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For several decades, medical specialists have concentrated on treating diseases affecting their respective specialities. Similarly, dentists have treated gum disease to augment oral health. However, recent research shows that oral health significantly impacts systemic health. Which simply means that gum disease causes other diseases ranging from heart disease to rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

The evidence for this link between gum disease and systemic disease is so strong that increasingly, cardiologists are asking their patients about oral health and dentists are asking their patients about systemic health.

Chronic inflammatory dental conditions, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease can adversely affect systemic health. It was previously thought that this was due to bacteria entering the bloodstream and damaging major organs. However, it is now thought that chronic inflammation of the gums can cause inflammation in varied, different parts of the body. Given below are some systemic diseases that can be caused by gum disease and vice versa.

1)   Gum Disease and Heart Disease: Over the years, it has been found that people with poor gum health have been known to have poor heart health, including greater risk of heart attacks. Scientists have found that inflammation caused by periodontal disease may be responsible for the increased risk of heart disease. Periodontal disease can also worsen existing heart conditions, such as infective endocarditis.

2)   Gum Disease and Diabetes: If you have diabetes, you are more likely to have gum disease, and vice versa. Periodontal disease is often considered to be a side effect of diabetes. Also, severe periodontal disease can cause a significant increase in blood sugar.

3)   Gum Disease and Dementia: Gum disease also raises the risk of dementia later in life. Researchers have also found that gum disease may be associated with mild cognitive impairment, such as memory problems, making daily activities more difficult. A recent study found that patients with severe periodontal disease scored very low on memory tests and calculations.

4)   Gum Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune disease, marked by inflammation and painful joints. People with RA are more likely to have periodontal disease, as chronic inflammation is common to both conditions. Although scientists have not found evidence that one causes the other, a 2009 study found that patients with a severe form of RA had less pain, swelling, and morning stiffness after their periodontal disease was treated. Also, people with RA are more likely to have periodontal disease with more missing teeth than patients without RA.

5)   Gum Disease and Premature Birth: Studies that have attempted to link gum disease and premature birth have had conflicting results. Some show that women with gum disease are more likely to deliver a preterm baby, whereas other studies do not show a definite link. Research is still ongoing. However, other research has also shown that treating gum disease in pregnant women helps them carry their infants to term. Also, one recent study showed that pregnant women who completed periodontal treatment before the 35th week were more likely to carry their babies to term.

6)   Gum Disease and Respiratory Problems: Bacteria that are present in the oral cavity may be aspirated into the lungs, causing pneumonia. Also, patients with poor oral health were more likely to suffer from other respiratory problems than those with optimum oral health.

7)   Gum Disease and Stroke: There is also a possible link between gum disease and stroke. Patients diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia were more likely to have an oral infection when compared to patients in a control group.

8) Gum Disease and Osteoporosis: Bone loss is a feature that occurs in both periodontal disease as well as osteoporosis. Also, many studies have found a strong link between periodontal disease and estrogen deficiency. The latter is one of the main causes of osteoporosis.

9) Gum Disease and Cancer: While the link between gum disease and cancer is still unclear, researchers found that men with gum disease were 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer. They were also 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more like to develop blood cancer.

At Bellevue Dental Health, we pride ourselves on caring for your oral health. If you suspect that you have gum disease, you should visit us for a detailed consult. If needed, we can treat gum disease, as well as educate you regarding potential treatment options and risks.

Check-ups with a qualified dentist, such as those at Bellevue Dental Health, should be undertaken on a regular basis, to help prevent gum disease and the risk of other systemic diseases.

For more information on gum disease, and its prevention and treatment, consult Dr. Libbi Finnessy at 425-641-3311 or at info@bellevuedentalhealth.comor go to our website https://www.bellevuedentalhealth.com for more information.

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Achieve a Beautiful Smile with Dental Veneers

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Everyone wants a beautiful smile. To have a beautiful smile, you need beautiful teeth. This is where dental veneers help. A dental veneer may be the reason you can have a dazzling smile. So, what is a dental veneer? Well, a dental veneer is a wafer-thin, custom-made shell of tooth colored material designed to cover the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance.

These tooth like shells are bonded to the front of your teeth changing their color, shape, size, or length. Dental veneers are typically made from porcelain or from resin composite materials. Porcelain veneers resist stains better than resin veneers and reflect light off of your teeth better. In this article, we’ll talk at length about dental veneers and how they can help you achieve that million-dollar smile!

Dental veneers can fix a variety of problems. Some of them are:

  • Teeth that are discolored
  • Teeth that are worn down
  • Teeth that are chipped or broken
  • Teeth that are misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped
  • Teeth with gaps between them

Dental veneers offer a minimally invasive and straightforward technique to make your smile look more bright, natural, and healthy looking. If you are self-conscious or embarrassed about your teeth, you can take advantage of a dental veneer for that beautiful smile. However, dental veneers are strictly cosmetic procedures that restore your smile but do not affect the function and strength of your teeth.

Dental veneers can restore your smile without the need for any surgical procedures. This means that you do not need to resort to expensive, time-consuming, and invasive procedures while eliminating any associated risks or pain. Your veneers will look like real teeth enamel and will mimic their shine and translucent quality. These veneers have high stain-resistant properties as stain-causing substances slide off the smooth surface of the ceramic material.

Dental veneers require some caution but are durable are durable enough to last for years. They generally last from 7 to 15 years, after which they may need to be replaced. Dental veneers do not require any special care. You should continue to follow good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash as you normally would.

The dental veneer procedure can be completed in about two visits to your dentist, over the course of about six weeks. The visits are comprehensive and may require several hours of examination and tooth preparation. Your dentist will typically administer a local anesthetic to make you comfortable. Your dentist will then prepare your natural tooth by minimally shaping it with a small, handheld rotational cutting device called a bur.

If your treatment involves direct composite resin veneers, your dentist will apply the appropriately shaded composite to your teeth, shape the material, and then harden it using a high intensity light. Your dentist may also apply additional layers of composite to build the veneer so that it is the correct shape, length, and form for your smile. When all composite is placed, the veneers will be finished and polished using burs and polishers to create a dazzling smile.

If your treatment involves porcelain veneers, your dentist will make an impression of your teeth from which a mold of your mouth will be made. This impression may then be sent to a dental laboratory where the veneers will be professionally fabricated.

At Bellevue Dental Health, we specialize in dental veneers. We work with each individual patient and create top-quality veneers that will suit their mouth and teeth. You can consult us for any questions or concerns you may have regarding dental veneers. We help restore your smile with carefully crafted dental veneers. So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us and restore your million-dollar smile…today!

For more information about dental veneers, contact Dr. Libbi Finnessy of Bellevue Dental Health at 425-641-3311 or at info@bellevuedentalhealth.com.

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How Smoking Effects Your Teeth

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We’ve all heard about the detrimental effects of smoking on your health. However, did you know that smoking also adversely affects your oral health? Well, it’s true! Smoking causes many oral health problems and the longer you smoke the more severe these problems become.

With there being about 36 million smokers in the United States, (according to the Centers for Disease Control), this amounts to about 15% of the population. That’s a huge number of people risking their oral health by smoking. So, how exactly does smoking affect your teeth? That’s what we’ll talk about in this article…

  • Smoking puts you at greater risk for oral cancer: Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause cancers of your mouth, tongue, lips, gums, and throat. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, about 50,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. An estimated 80% of them are smokers. If you are a smoker as well as a heavy drinker, your risk for oral cancer substantially increases. I screen all of my patients at their dental appointments for oral cancer. It often begins as a white or red patch in the mouth and is not symptomatic. It later can be accompanied by difficulty chewing or swallowing, numbness in the jaw, and pain in the ear. If you have these symptoms for more than two weeks, visit your dentist, as the earlier oral cancer is detected, the more effective will its treatment be.
  • Smoking puts you at greater risk for gum disease: Smoking adversely affects your gums in two ways. If you smoke you are more likely to produce more bacterial plaque in your mouth, which puts your gums under steady attack. Second, smokers have lower oxygen levels in their blood, therefore delaying healing. This means that when your gums become infected, your body is less likely to be able to deal with it. Gum disease progresses at a very rapid rate in people who smoke. Losing teeth is a very real consequence in people who are heavy smokers.
  • Smoking puts you at greater risk for cavities: Due to the plaque and gum problems caused by smoking, smokers are at higher risk for tooth decay. If you smoke, you’re putting your mouth at risk for cavities three times more than non-smokers.
  • Smoking puts you at greater risk for bad breath: Smokers have a greater incidence of halitosis or bad breath. This is because about 4000 chemicals pass through your oral cavity every time you smoke. Many of these end up collecting on the surfaces inside your mouth. Smoking also contributes to bad breath by drying out your mouth. This can trigger gum infection and can irritate your sinuses, resulting in post-nasal drip.
  • Smoking puts you at greater risk for stained teeth: Smokers typically have stained teeth, with unattractive yellow stains that tar and nicotine leave on your teeth. Over time, this discoloration can leak into tiny cracks in your tooth enamel, leading to permanent discoloration and staining.
  • Smoking puts you at greater risk for delayed healing: Smoking results in the increased possibility of tooth extraction and oral surgery. However, at the same time, it results in delayed healing and slows your body’s ability to recover from these procedures. It also lowers the rate of successful dental implant procedures. The more you smoke, the more vulnerable you are to developing further complications.
  • Smoking puts you at greater risk for altered taste and smell: Smoking results in an altered sense of taste and smell. This interferes with your enjoyment of food and is also likely to make you add more salt or sugar to your food to make the taste stronger. Research shows that about one in five smokers have a less precise sense of taste and smell. However, this can be reversed if you stop smoking.

So, now you know how smoking can adversely affect your teeth. At Bellevue Dental Health we can help you manage the effects of smoking on your teeth. We work individually with each patient and take a detailed patient history to determine what treatment options each patient has.

If you are a smoker be sure to have regular dental care and a regular exam. As always, we are here to help at Bellevue Dental Health!

For more information about a dental consultation and different dental procedures,
contact Dr. Libby Finnessy of Bellevue Dental Health at 425-641-3311 or at info@bellevuedentalhealth.com.

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Pros And Cons Of Dental Veneers

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If you’ve admired your favorite celebrity’s smile, chances are it’s because of a dental veneer. So, what is a dental veneer? Well, veneers are thin pieces of porcelain, resins, and other composite materials that are molded to fit your teeth, and which attach to the front of the tooth in order to improve its appearance. The goal of a dental veneer is to change the size, color, and possibly the shape of your tooth.

Dental veneers are typically used if teeth are discolored from root canals, fillings, or other procedures; if teeth are chipped or broken; if teeth are irregularly shaped; if teeth have gaps between them, and for any dental issue that results in a loss of self-confidence. Veneers typically last for about 5 to 7 years and the cost can vary but are more economical than most crowns.

There are four main types of dental veneers. These are porcelain veneers, composite veneers, instant veneers, and removable veneers. While dental veneers are increasingly popular, there are certain pros and cons of dental veneers.

It is important that patients make an informed decision about whether to go in for a dental veneer and consult their dentist after knowing all the facts. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of dental veneers…

Pros of Dental Veneers

Here are some of the pros of dental veneers:

Pro #1: Great effect on your smile: Dental veneers can have a transformative effect on your smile. They can also improve the color and appearance of your teeth and can fill in any gaps and crooked teeth.

Pro # 2: Resistant to stains: Dental veneers, especially porcelain veneers are highly stain resistant and will remain as white as when they were new.

Pro #3: Long-lasting: If cared for properly, porcelain veneers can last as long as 20 years. Other veneers, such as composites can last for as long as 10 years.

Pro #4: Easy to maintain: You should look after your veneers the way you look after your regular teeth. Regular brushing and flossing with scheduled dental visits should keep your veneers in fantastic shape.

Pro #5: Rapid results: Orthodontic treatments like Invisalign can take months to correct slightly misaligned teeth. However, dental veneers are effective as soon as the treatment is complete.

Cons of Dental Veneers

There are some cons of dental veneers too. Here are some of them:

Con #1: High cost: Porcelain veneers along with dental implants are some of the most expensive cosmetic dental treatments. Also, they may not be covered with your dental insurance as it is considered to be a cosmetic procedure. However, if you find porcelain veneers too expensive, you can opt for composite veneers or then, instant veneers.

Con #2: Does not suit everyone: Most people can have dental veneers fitted over their teeth. However, some patients cannot have veneers fitted. These include those with weakened or decayed teeth, those who regularly grind their teeth, those with severe cases of periodontal disease, and those with bad tooth enamel. Also, dental veneers can cause heightened tooth sensitivity to extreme hot and cold temperatures. However, this goes away after some time.

Con #3: Expensive to repair: If a porcelain veneer is chipped or cracked, it needs to be fully replaced. However, composite veneers can often be repaired or patched up. With proper care, dental veneers are extremely durable, but if looked after poorly, or if they are accidentally broken, they are expensive to fix.

Con #4: Long fitting process: While fitting veneers is fairly straightforward, it will require multiple visits to the dentist. The visits will require an initial consultation, doing the prep work, having a temporary veneer fitted, and then, the final fitting itself.

Con #5: Non-reversible process: Veneers are more or less permanent, because your dentist changes the structure of your natural teeth to properly place them. In such cases, the outer layer of your enamel may be removed to make room.

So, now you know a bit more about dental veneers. Consider making an appointment with your dentist to find out if dental veneers are the right choice for you. At Bellevue Dental Health, we place dental veneers after a thorough consultation and I love the difference it makes in my patient’s smile. If you have fractured or broken teeth, discolored teeth, gaps between your teeth and more, you can schedule an appointment to know your options.

For more information on dental veneers and whether they are right for you, contact Dr. Libby Finnessy of Bellevue Dental Health at 425-641-3311 or at info@bellevuedentalhealth.com.

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The Benefits of a Custom Fitted Mouthguard

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If you are an athlete or parent of one, you’ve probably heard of a mouthguard. If you haven’t, you should have! A mouthguard is a mouth protector, and is a flexible device worn over the teeth during athletic and recreational activities to protect them from damage.

If you play ice hockey, lacrosse, field hockey, and football, you absolutely need to wear a mouthguard, as mandated by the U.S. National Collegiate Athletic Association. However, besides these sports, the American Dental Association recommends the use of a mouthguard for 29 different sports and activities.

Some of these include the ones mentioned above, as well as acrobatics, basketball, boxing, gymnastics, volleyball, squash, wrestling, weightlifting, and many others. Whenever there is a chance of contact with other players or contact with a hard surface, wearing a mouthguard makes sense.

There are three different types of mouthguards:

  • Pre-formed mouthguards: These can be bought in sporting goods stores and drugstores and are pre-formed and ready to wear.
  • Mouth-formed mouthguards: These can be either a shell liner, or then a boil-and-bite kind. Both these types mold themselves to the contours of the teeth, using the fingers, lips, tongue, and biting pressure.
  • Custom fit mouthguards: These provide the greatest degree of comfort, fit, and protection, because they are made from a custom model to precisely fit over your teeth. Your dentist creates an impression of your teeth, and a dental laboratory technician then uses the impression as a mold to create the custom-fitted mouthguard.

 

While all of these mouthguards have their own uses, custom fitted mouthguards are the most efficacious when it comes to protecting your teeth. Custom fitted mouthguards are better than off-the-shelf mouthguards at preventing injury, such as concussions or brain damage, jaw dislocation/fracture, fractured or lost teeth, cuts or bruises to the mouth and face, and stress to the neck. In this article, we’ll talk a bit more about the benefits of custom fitted mouthguards. Some of them are:

  1. Customization and proper fit: A poorly fitting mouthguard can do more damage than good. A custom fitted mouthguard is made to properly fit over your teeth, however irregular they may be. Custom fitted mouthguards are designed with your dental history in mind, as well as the sport you are playing. This means that any braces or appliances you have, will be protected as well!
  2. More comfortable than other mouthguards: A custom fitted mouthguard is made from a direct impression of your mouth, so there isn’t any unwanted or unnecessary bulky material left over. This type of mouthguard is more comfortable than other off-the-shelf mouthguards. This makes breathing, talking, and swallowing a lot easier.
  3. Increased protection: A custom fitted mouthguard will cover and protect all your teeth. If impact takes place, this mouthguard will absorb the shock and distribute the impact properly. Custom fitted mouthguards also prevent concussion and other brain injuries.
  4. Correct thickness depending on the sport: If you are planning on playing heavy contact sports, such as boxing, hockey, and football, your dentist will design a custom fitted mouthguard that will have the appropriate thickness to handle the impact and absorb the shock. For low contact sports, such as tennis and racquetball, the custom fitted mouthguard can be thinner.
  5. Available at the right cost: As with more injuries, prevention is key. Wearing a custom fitted mouthguard is better than going in for dental reconstructive surgery after a sports injury to your teeth and mouth. Rather than opting for an off-the-shelf mouthguard, do consider a custom fitted one, as the latter will protect not only your teeth and mouth, but also appliances you may have, such as dental implants and braces. Moreover, this will turn out to be less expensive in the long run.

 

So, these are some of the benefits of custom fitted mouthguards. Consult your dentist and consider getting a custom fitted mouthguard if you need to do so. At Bellevue Dental Health, we design custom-fitted mouthguards for athletes and others, depending on their need and the sport they play. Play hard but play safe!

For more information on custom fitted mouthguards as well as other dental questions, contact Dr. Libbi Finnessy of Bellevue Dental Health at 425-641-3311 or at info@bellevuedentalhealth.com.

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Healthy Cooking for the Sweet Tooth

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Most of us have a sweet tooth that shows up, more often then we like. We, as dentists, are often asked by our patients what would be considered healthy foods that they can eat while occasionally indulging our sweet tooth. While we are often told that indulging that sweet tooth is most often a no-no, there are foods that we can eat that are healthy, even as they satisfy your sugar cravings. In this article, we’ll talk about some of these foods.

  • Dark chocolate: You can whip up several recipes with dark chocolate. This is not as bad as you may think and some consider it good for the teeth even effective at fighting cavities, plaque, and tooth decay in the mouth. Compounds in dark chocolate may even be effective at fighting cavities. Some of the more popular recipes that you can whip up using dark chocolate include chocolate milk, Café mocha, and peanut butter and chocolate pretzels. You can even create a healthy and delicious chocolate pudding in a jiffy and so also, a satisfying hot chocolate drink. You can even create a trail mix, which is a healthy mix of nuts like almonds and pistachios, with a dark chocolate pieces. If you want to be even more creative, you can make Choco-nut popcorn, with 1 tablespoon melted peanut butter or Nutella, and a dusting of shaved chocolate or a sprinkling of cocoa powder.
  • Fresh fruit and other fruit dishes: This is one of the simplest offerings to satisfy your sweet tooth. Fresh fruit offers natural sugar to satisfy your cravings and also provides nutrients and fiber. You can also create other recipes using fresh fruit, such as chocolate-dipped strawberries, frozen chocolate banana, an all-fruit popsicle, banana ice cream, sorbet, and baked apple.
  • Yogurt Parfait and other yogurt recipes: Yogurt is one of the healthiest dishes you can eat and is also very good at satisfying those sweet cravings without hurting your teeth. Some yogurt recipes you can whip up include yogurt parfait, which is plain Greek yogurt with your choice of topping. The latter could include granola, nuts, and fruit with a sprinkling of dark chocolate shavings to boot. Other yogurt recipes include Nutella yogurt dip with fruit. This is a healthier take on chocolate fondue. You need to mix Nutella with Greek yogurt and use it as a dip with fresh fruit or with low-sugar cookies or crackers. You can also make and eat Frozen Greek Yogurt Drops. This consists of combining non-fat plain Greek yogurt with half a cup of frozen berries and stirring it until the fruit has broken down and the mixture has an even consistency. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drop a bit of the mixture onto the sheet, leaving space between the drops. Freeze for a few hours and then store till you are ready to eat.
  • Smoothies: These are easy to make and taste even better, whether they are for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Some smoothies include recipes such as Oaty Banana, Peachy Oat Smoothie, Banana Java, Strawberry Banana, Orange Crush, and so on. As you can imagine, you can create any number of recipes for smoothies, by combining ingredients in a creative way.
  • Peanut butter and jelly sandwich and other bread recipes: A peanut butter and jelly sandwich is a classic recipe that satisfies many a sweet tooth in a healthy way. Take a slice of whole wheat bread and spread peanut butter as well as any fruit jelly you like, such as grape or strawberry. This not only provides sweetness, but also protein and a bit of fiber to boost. You can also make and eat Cinnamon Toast by toasting up a slice of whole-grain bread, adding a half teaspoon of butter, a quarter teaspoon of sugar, and as much cinnamon powder as you want.
  • Cereal and milk: Opt for a healthy, high-fiber, whole-grain cereal and sweeten with a little honey or cinnamon. Again, you can create as many recipes as you like by being creative. You can also combine chocolate with cereal and milk for a sweet but healthy treat. Kick-start your day with cereal and milk and satisfy that sweet craving.
  • Pudding: You can create a pudding with any flavor you desire, such as chocolate, vanilla, pistachio and the like. You can add these flavors with skim milk and then top with berries or other fruit, for added fiber. You can also create Fruit and Cottage Cheese pudding. You can do so by mixing fruit and cottage cheese and then mixing in a teaspoon of chocolate or cocoa powder and a drizzling of honey.

 

These are some easy-to-make recipes for healthy dishes that will help satisfy your sweet tooth, without hurting your teeth. Whip these up and enjoy, content that your teeth are in good shape with these recipes.

For more information on healthy foods as well as other dental questions, contact Dr. Libby Finnessy of Bellevue Dental Health at 425-641-3311 or at info@bellevuedentalhealth.com.

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