Frequently Asked Questions

• My smile isn't as attractive as it used to be.  What can I do?
  
       As we age, so do our smiles.  An aging smile is characterized by shorter, darker, uneven teeth.  Spaces and gaps may form as the front teeth get shorter.  An aging smile also effects our facial profile.  The mid-face region may appear collapsed, with the chin appearing to close to the nose.  Dark, vertical crack lines may also appear in the front teeth.
       What can be done about this?  Modern dentistry has much to offer for treatment of the aging smile.  Sometimes, simply bleaching the front teeth is all that is required to restore a more youthful smile.  If bleaching does not adequately restore the smile, porcelain veneers may be recommended.  Porcelain veneers require minimal tooth reduction, and provide spectacular aesthetic results.  If the front teeth are severely fractured, or have large fillings, full porcelain crowns may be necessary to achieve a beautiful smile.  A more youthful smile can be achieved in almost any case. 
  Call Jackie today at (409) 898-4300 and you can help us decide what is best for you.  Also, check out our smile gallery of beautifully restored smiles.
  
  
• What can be done about missing teeth?
  
       Missing teeth can and should be replaced as soon as possible.  Once teeth are lost, the remaining teeth can shift positions and cause bite problems which can lead to further tooth loss.  Several options exist for the replacement of missing teeth.  Dental implants can be a very effective way of replacing teeth.  Typically, an oral surgeon places the titanium implant, and waits 4-6 months for complete healing.  After the implants are firmly attached to the bone, the dentist can make replacement teeth on the implant.
       Conventional bridgework is still the most common method for permanently replacing missing teeth.  In this method, existing teeth are utilized to anchor the replacement teeth.  The replacement teeth (or pontics) are permanently affixed to the existing teeth by use of crowns.  This method has stood the test of time and can produce excellent results.  Don't delay when it comes to the replacement of missing teeth.
  
  
• How can I whiten my smile?
  
  Generally speaking, teeth can be whitened in two ways.
  

1. Bleaching:
        Bleaching of teeth can be accomplished in the dental office or at home.  If the patient chooses 'dental office bleaching', it is usually accomplished in one appointment with light activated bleach.  The appointment length is approximately 90 minutes.  Some patients choose 'at home' bleaching.  This technique requires at least two visits to the dental office and the use of a custom fit dental tray for several weeks.
        Either way, bleaching can produce phenomenal results for many people.  Call today to see if bleaching will work for you.
   
2. Porcelain veneers or crowns:
        For severely stained teeth, or dark teeth which have very large discolored fillings, porcelain veneers or crowns may be the treatment of choice.  Spectacular smiles can be achieved with porcelain.  Not only can you choose how white you want your teeth to be, you can choose the shape of your teeth.  Porcelain can also be used to straighten crooked teeth or repair chipped front teeth.  Today's porcelain is not only beautiful, but exceptionally strong.  Porcelain veneers/crowns produce the most dramatic changes possible in your smile.