Coquitlam Dentist Accepting New Patients: (604) 420-2545

Cosmetic Dentistry

burnaby teeth whitening
Cosmetic Dentistry

Teeth Whitening

teeth whitening burnaby dentist

Your smile is extremely important because it is usually the first thing noticed when meeting someone. A smile that is brighter and whiter, coming from a more confident person, can make a memorable impression on anyone you meet, as well as make you feel great in the process. It is unfortunate that aging and bad habits can darken and stain your perfect teeth.

Reasons for Stained Teeth

  1. Drinking coffee, tea, pop, wine, etc.
  2. Eating staining foods such as blueberries or blackberries
  3. Keeping bad dental habits such as not brushing or flossing properly
  4. Smoking or chewing tobacco

In-office Zoom whitening: This is a safe, effective, and fast way to whiten your teeth and see instant results. Perfect for the busy patient on the run. With help from your dentist, you will be able to choose the right color and shade for your teeth and have it applied all in one visit!

Reasons for in-office whitening

burnaby dentist teeth whitening
  1. Fast and convenient
  2. Little to no sensitivity issues
  3. Long-lasting
  4. Performed by a cosmetic dental professional

Take-home whitening kits: Custom whitening trays, professionally created at our office, can be sent home with our patients. After the desired effects are achieved with Zoom whitening, our trained dental professionals will go over all the instructions to make sure the patient understands how to properly use the kit. Patients can achieve professional whitening results in the comfort of their own home simply by wearing the teeth whitening kit for only 20 minutes at their convenience.

Since whitening kits contain high levels of peroxide, we advise patients to exercise caution during use. Take extra care when placing the whitening gels in the trays and ensure it is not overfilling the gums, which can lead to sore gums or more serious health problems. Also, do not wear the kit for more than an hour when whitening at home, as it could result in increased teeth sensitivity. If your teeth ever feel sensitive, discontinue use of the whitening kit for a few days to allow the teeth to settle. Contact our dental office for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening

Who should use teeth whitening? Generally, anyone with healthy gums and teeth that are looking to brighten up their smile can benefit from the professional teeth whitening system. It has been shown to be highly effective at removing stains from teeth, including tobacco, coffee, tea, tetracycline, and various other tooth stains. A professional teeth whitening system will not affect existing dental work.

Does the whitening system work on Dentures, or Veneers? The process was designed to enhance the natural whiteness of the enamel. Existing restorations such as tooth-colored fillings, dentures, crowns, bonding, veneers, and bridges do not lighten. This means that any pre-existing dental work may need to be replaced to match the new tooth shade achieved in the natural teeth, should a bleaching process proceed. Clients typically apply the gel product only to their natural teeth, allowing these treated teeth to lighten up to match a cap, crown, or veneer.

Is tooth whitening bad for your teeth? Studies of teeth whitening products using 10% carbamide peroxide showed no effect on the hardness or mineral content of a tooth’s enamel surface. Professional teeth whitening does not cause permanent damage to the enamel on your teeth, and is considered harmless by most dentists.

How many shades whiter can I expect my teeth to get? The amount of whitening varies from client to client and cannot be predicted or guaranteed; but in general use, teeth may lighten anywhere from 6 to 12 shades on the whitening shade guide.  The results depend greatly on how discolored the teeth were originally.  Yellow or brown teeth, surface stains, and uniformly darkened teeth are easiest to whiten.  Additional whitening treatments may be needed in order to achieve the desired shade, especially with heavily stained teeth.

How long do the teeth whitening effects last? Teeth whitening is not permanent. People who expose their teeth to foods and beverages that cause staining may see the whiteness start to fade in as little as one month. Those who avoid foods and beverages that stain may be able to wait one year or longer before another whitening treatment or touch-up is needed.

How long does the treatment take? The process takes only 30-minutes, (2 – 15-minute applications) to achieve a whiter and brighter smile. It is broken down into two 15-minute applications to allow for maximum gel concentration and light exposure, without being under the light for too long of a period to cause gum irritation. Individuals with sensitive teeth may reduce the intensity of the bleaching unit by choosing a lower power setting and those with very heavy stains may need additional treatments.

What happens during teeth whitening? When you visit our Coquitlam dental office for professional teeth whitening, our dentist will have you wear a tray during the treatment that will cover your teeth with a specially formulated whitening gel. Also, our dentist may use a type of light to enhance the whitening effects of the gel.

Does the treatment hurt? Teeth whitening may cause sensitivity during or after treatment and slight discomfort in the gums. Both of these side effects are usually temporary and will disappear a few days after treatment. It is important to tell your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms as the dentist will be able to advise how best to cope in the meantime.

How can I make my results last longer? Luckily, there are a number of steps that you can take to help retain your tooth whitening results. First, avoid eating or drinking any items that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, soda, berries, and anything tomato-based. If you do choose to eat and drink these items, be sure to rinse your mouth or brush your teeth afterward. Finally, keeping up with twice-daily tooth brushing and biannual dental cleanings can help prevent stains from building up on your teeth.

Why is professional whitening better than other options? The greatest benefit that you’ll gain by seeing our Dentist in Coquitlam for tooth whitening is quality and speed. Unlike over-the-counter kits, professional whitening uses a stronger formula that can provide you with a noticeably whiter smile in a single treatment. At-home kits that you can pick up at the drugstore often take a week or longer to provide noticeable results.

dentist invisalign burnaby
Cosmetic Dentistry

Invisalign

invisalign by burnaby dentist

Invisalign is one of the most popular dental solutions of the past two decades; it is basically braces without the hassle of metal wires. Composed of removable aligners made of durable, crafted acrylic, Invisalign provides a comfortable and invisible alternative to traditional braces. In addition, the duration of an Invisalign treatment is, on average, around 12 months. This is a huge step above metal braces, which sometimes take years to properly readjust a patient’s teeth.

When wearing Invisalign for the first time, you’ll notice it doesn’t fit perfectly. This is because it has yet to conform to the shape of your teeth. Each arrangement for an aligner is a two-week process. Each aligner you put into your mouth will not fit right at first because it has been shaped to fit your teeth at the end of the two-week adjustment period. In this way, you can see the progress of each arrangement as you are then given the next aligner that is shaped to fit your mouth two weeks later. This process can continue 10, 20, or possibly 30 times, but the total amount of tooth movement that can be accomplished is substantial.

Reasons for Invisalign

  1. Not having metal braces is preferable
  2. Teeth are twisted or crooked
  3. Little or no confidence in smile
  4. Crowding, Overbite, Underbite, etc
  5. Spacing or gaps in between teeth

Thinking about changing your smile and appearance? Book an Invisalign consultation with one of our highly trained cosmetic dentist professionals. We will be more than happy to answer any questions or concerns you have.

Dentist on Ridgeway: Everything About Invisalign

Remember, when considering Invisalign or any other clear aligners, it is important to understand that the aligners alone will not fix your teeth. Invisalign is just a tool in the hands of an experienced dentist. Only experienced dentist can successfully treat cases with Invisalign. Your dentist, and not Invisalign, is responsible for any good or bad outcomes and your satisfaction. That applies only to those cases where the patient complies with the dentist’s instructions. The treatment success depends not just on a dentist but on the patient’s compliance as well. Without due diligence, Invisalign is not a good choice for you.

At Dentist on Ridgeway in Coquitlam, BC, we’ve placed over hundreds of Invisalign aligners. Call our dental office to schedule a time that’s most convenient for you. All our consultations are free of charge and we will only recommend Invisalign if we think it will benefit you.

We will always discuss the retention protocol after the treatment. Remember, it is not about making your teeth straight, it is about keeping them straight for a long time. You do not want to waste your hard earned money and have crowded and misaligned teeth only a few months after treatment is completed.

Permanent retainers, in most cases, are better than removable retainers. We will make sure retainer prices are included in the total to avoid any surprises.

We will also make sure refinement prices are included in the total. If you do need some braces during the treatment, which sometimes are necessary with Invisalign for the best results, we make sure you do not have to pay extra.

If you need a second opinion, please come and bring any records you have to discuss your concerns and questions. Or you can use online services to obtain a second opinion without leaving your home. If you were ever told by your general dentist that you are not a good candidate for treatment with clear aligners, visit our Dentist on Ridgeway in Coquitlam, BC to gain more knowledge and peace of mind. Remember, there is nothing to lose, just gain.

Most of our patients’ questions are answered in the comprehensive FAQ section found below. You can also read about testimonials from our current and past patients about their feelings on the treatment. Have a question that has not been answered? Give us a call or take a look at our forums. The forums are a great place to communicate with patients or ask questions. To begin your Invisalign journey, give Dentist on Ridgeway a call at our Coquitlam, BC location.

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign

1. What are aligners made of, and what do they look like?

The virtually invisible aligners, which are made of a thermoplastic material uniquely developed for the Invisalign treatment plan, look similar to teeth-whitening trays. A series of Invisalign aligners are custom-made for you, to move your teeth in the sequence determined by your doctor.

2. How do the aligners straighten teeth?

Over the course of treatment, you will be supplied with a series of aligners. Each aligner will make slight adjustments to tooth position. During each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, a process that is mapped out in advance by your dentist, specifically for your situation. When the aligners are placed on the teeth, they cause the teeth to gradually shift from their current position. The main difference is that Invisalign not only controls the force, but also the timing of the force application. After approximately two weeks, you will begin using the next set of aligners, which will continue the teeth straightening process.

3. Is Invisalign really effective?

More than 3 million patients have been treated with Invisalign worldwide with great success. The aligners move teeth just as effectively as traditional metal and wire braces. We have never had a patient who wasn’t satisfied with our Invisalign treatment!

4. What are the other primary benefits of Invisalign comparing to Traditional Braces?

Invisalign aligners are removable and you can eat whatever you want. For the best results and a timely outcome, aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. However, unlike with braces, you have the flexibility to remove your aligners to eat and drink what you want during treatment. And you can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would, for fresh breath and good oral hygiene.

Avoid Pain and Irritation: The metal wires in traditional braces are notorious for causing pain, discomfort, and mouth sores. And since the treatment is long-term, patients are forced to live in discomfort for months. Invisalign straighteners are made of smooth plastic that is carefully molded to your teeth for a comfortable, pain-free fit. Some people might experience temporary discomfort for a few days at the beginning of each new stage of treatment. This discomfort typically goes away in a couple of days.

Visit the Dentist Less Often: Traditional braces requires frequent visits to the dentist for tightening and correction. And since they compromise your oral health, you might also need more cleanings and intensive treatments. Patients who choose Invisalign straighteners instead typically only need to see a dentist every four to six weeks. That is an easy commitment to fit into a busy schedule.

5. How much does Invisalign cost?

We know cost is a big question for anyone considering Invisalign work. In most cases, Invisalign treatment is comparable to the cost of traditional braces. However, as with other medical treatments, only your Invisalign-trained dentist can determine the cost, based on your specific needs. Other factors may include your treatment goals, the difficulty of your case, how long you are in treatment, if you live in Vancouver or Coquitlam, and additional factors determined by your dentist. Also, check your dental insurance plan—Invisalign treatment is covered by many dental insurance policies. And our dentists can offer flexible and affordable monthly payment plans as well.

6. Can I go to any dental for treatment with invisalign?

While Invisalign can be used with virtually any treatment philosophy, special training is needed. All dentists interested in treating patients with Invisalign must attend training to become qualified and proficient in the various requirements for treating patients before treatments will be accepted from their office.

Our Coquitlam Dental Office has 3 dentist with special training in the Invisalign procedure.

7. Will Invisalign still work if I am an adult/older?

Many adults are choosing to get their smiles into alignment – in fact, nearly one-quarter of our orthodontic patients are adults! While traditional braces are becoming more accepted for both adults and kids, Invisalign is a great option for adults who may not want the full “braces” experience and would prefer a lower-profile, nearly invisible option.

8. What if I’ve had braces, veneers, bridgework or have other special dental conditions will Invisalign aligners work with them?

It’s possible. Please consult with one of our dentists about any special orthodontic cases, such as veneers, braces.

9. Can I just wear the aligners while I sleep?

No. The aligners must be in place a minimum of 20 to 22 hours a day for the treatment to be effective.

10. Can I smoke while wearing the aligners?

Smoking is discouraged while wearing aligners because it is possible for the aligners to become stained or discoloured, which will increase the changes of your teeth staining.

11. What is the best way to clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water and using the Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or special cleaning tablets. It’s important that you brush your teeth after each meal and prior to re-inserting your aligners to maintain proper hygiene.

12. What happen after the invisalign treatment is completed? Is there a retainer necessary?

Wearing a retainer after any orthodontic treatment is an important step, because it keeps teeth stable in their new positions. If you want your teeth to remain in their ideal position, it is best to wear a retainer as directed by an Invisalign Provider. In many cases your last aligner will be your temporary retainer, until your retention option is determined. Your Invisalign Provider can advise you on longer term retention options.

13. Will invisalign really work for Me?

To find out if you’re an Invisalign candidate, first make an appointment with one of our highly trained dentists at Dentist on Ridgeway in Coquitlam, BC. In addition to determining if your particular dental problem can be fixed with Invisalign, our dentists need to assess your lifestyle to determine if Invisalign will work for you. When you select traditional braces, they remain in your mouth 24 hours a day, but Invisalign is removable for eating, brushing and flossing. You still need to wear the aligners 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing them when absolutely necessary. Wearing them only while you sleep is not enough. If you tend to lose things or are forgetful, Invisalign might not be as effective for you.

burnaby dentist veneers
Cosmetic Dentistry

Veneers

veneers by burnaby dentist

Dental veneers are what dental professionals call a complete “smile makeover” because of the superb results are seen after just a few short appointments. They are specifically designed to alter dental imperfections such as irregular shape and yellowish color. Each veneer is placed over the surface of the tooth in order to fix these imperfections, thus allowing patients to feel better about their appearance and feel more confident when they smile. At Dentist on Ridgeway in Coquitlam, we’ve successfully placed over 1000’s of veneers.

Reasons for Porcelain Veneers

  1. Misshapen or misadjusted teeth
  2. Chipped teeth
  3. Crooked or gapped teeth (slight or largely noticeable)
  4. Stained tooth enamel

Is a complete smile makeover something that you’ve been debating?

Questions before considering treatment:

  1. Do I feel self-conscious with others when I smile and worry about what they think?
  2. Do I want to improve my confidence?
  3. Do I want to look my best in professional and social situations?

Frequently Asked Questions About Veneers

veneers by burnaby dentist

What happens to my teeth after veneers, and will I ever get cavities? The integrity of veneered teeth is only marginally compromised, and the veneer is bonded to the existing teeth. There is no higher incidence of decay provided the veneers are properly cared for as previously mentioned with regular flossing and brushing with toothpaste. In general, it is good dental advice to keep your sugar consumption low and confined to meal times to prevent decay.

How long will porcelain veneers last? They can last from seven to twenty years. While the veneer itself is inert and non-living, the tooth or teeth to which they are attached and the surrounding gum tissues are living and may change. For example, gum line shrinkage may expose or reveal root surfaces. If a veneer comes off it can generally be rebonded. If it chips it can sometimes be rebonded or otherwise replaced.

How Do I Choose a Dentist for Porcelain Veneers? As with any elective procedure, the most important factor in choosing a dentist is experience. While any dentist can offer porcelain veneers, not all have additional training in cosmetics dentistry. This is where things can get tricky and research (before and after pictures) becomes even more important.

Our dentists at Dentist on Ridgeway are all skilled in cosmetic dentistry.

Do Porcelain Veneers Look Fake? Individual results vary, but the goal is for the porcelain veneers to look and feel like a person’s own teeth, only better. To avoid the too-straight, too-white appearance that many associates with obvious veneers, intentional imperfections like slight rotation, subtle discoloration, and grooves can be made to imitate natural flaws.

A successful case is the result of great teamwork between a dentist and lab technician. The dentist must design the case for long-term success and the ceramist must create custom works of art to give a beautiful and natural look. Cosmetics is not taught in dental school, so it’s important to find a dentist that has extra training and certification showing this education. Experience counts.

Can Veneers Be Removed? Because some tooth structure and enamel are removed prior to placing veneers, this is considered an irreversible treatment. Veneers may be replaced, but removing them for good will leave your teeth permanently scarred, at high risk for damage, and unhealthy looking.

What are the advantages of porcelain veneers over other types of cosmetic dental bonding procedures? Porcelain veneers are superior to other types of cosmetic dental bonding procedures in several ways:

  • Veneers look very life-like
  • Veneers are highly stained resistant
  • Since porcelain is a ceramic, stain-producing products such as coffee, tea, and red wine will roll right off the surface of your teeth. This means after your porcelain veneers are placed, you don’t have to worry about making changes to your lifestyle to accommodate your beautiful teeth.

If my teeth are reshaped for veneers or crowns, what will they look like? Will they be sensitive? Generally, cemented restorations, such as crowns or veneers (see the procedure section), will require two visits: one to shape the teeth and one to cement the restorations to the teeth. Between visits, your Coquitlam Dentist can place attractive provisional restorations to help prevent sensitivity, allow limited function, and provide a nice smile. These temporaries are designed to be in your mouth for a limited time but should be comfortable and natural looking until your new smile is completed.

Do porcelain veneers stain with normal things like tea, coffee, and wine? Porcelain veneers should never stain; however; if your teeth have a propensity to stain you should try to avoid or minimize the behaviors that lead to staining and look after them as recommended above with normal hygiene and maintenance procedures.

How do I get veneers to match my other teeth? This concern will be addressed by your dental professional. Most people get their veneers in a whiter shade than their natural teeth and then under tooth whitening to create a matching aesthetic.

How do I take care of my veneers? Once applied to your teeth, porcelain veneers should be treated just like your natural teeth. Don’t miss your twice-annual visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning and dental exam. And be sure to brush and floss daily to clean your teeth properly. There is no special treatment needed to care for your veneers.

Are you ready for porcelain veneers? Talk to one of our cosmetic dentists at Dentist on Ridgeway in Coquitlam, BC. Simply call us at: (604) 420-2545.

dental implants in burnaby
Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a small post that is made up of titanium, bicarbonate metal or a combination of the two. It is typically inserted into an empty socket of the gums left by a missing tooth. When an implant is inserted, it fuses with the jawbone tissue to become a very stable and painless tooth replacement. Unfortunately, when a jawbone has no natural tooth to support it, it begins to deteriorate. Dental implants are the only dental restoration option that allows the jawbone to not only thrive but to grow and remain stimulated as well. This is because the implant acts as if it were natural bone. Implants are flexible as well; they can be used to support a single crown, or be combined with multiple implants to support a bridge or partial/denture.

Reasons for Dental Implants

  1. Stops teeth from irregularly shifting due to presence of empty space
  2. Conserves the integrity of the jawbone
  3. Ensures stable appearance of mouth
  4. Replaces bothersome missing tooth

Dental Implant Maintenance

The daily care of dental implants is very similar to the care of natural teeth. Restored dental implants should be kept clean and plaque free twice a day using a brush and floss. Cleaning is especially important after meals. This is accomplished by gently brushing, giving special attention to all sides of the implant.

Oral hygiene aids may include:

  • Small, soft, manual toothbrush or an electric brush
  • Low-abrasive, tartar-control toothpaste
  • Dental floss for cleaning around the abutments

Other supplies that may be recommended by the doctor can include:

  • Antimicrobial mouth rinses
  • Inter-dental brushes or other aids for removing plaque between the teeth on either side of the implant(s)
  • Disclosing tablets to stain the locations of plaque accumulation

You must be committed not only to the daily performance of dental hygiene at home but to regular visits to your dentist (Dentist on Ridgeway in Coquitlam, BC is currently accepting new patients). It is recommended that you see your dentist every 3-6 months for a professional exam and cleaning. The implant(s) should be examined with an x-ray annually. 

What can happen if I don’t take care of my Dental Implants?

coquitlam dental implant problemDental Implants can develop problems without consistent daily care. The earliest sign of a problem begins with the observation of bleeding. This is known as mucositis. The current scientific evidence suggests that this may be successfully treated and is reversible if caught early. Unfortunately, if it progresses to bone loss, also known as peri-implantitis, the bone loss is not reversible. If peri-implantitis is not treated it can lead to advanced bone loss and the removal of the implant.

What should my Dentist check for at every cleaning visit?

For an accurate assessment of implant health, dentists and hygienists need to probe and measure the gums around the implant the same was as around teeth, check and compare x-rays annually, look for looseness, check the bite and check all of the components that are attached to the implants to make sure that they are functioning properly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Who should get dental implants?

Dental implants are not for everyone, but certain conditions and circumstances may make dental implants the better option:

  • Having more than one missing tooth
  • Having a jawbone that has reached full growth
  • Having ample amounts of bone to secure the implant
  • Having healthy oral tissues
  • Being unwilling or unable to wear dentures

How expensive are dental implants?

Dental implants require a significant investment but hold up over time to make the process worth the price. Surgical fees often cost $2,000–5,000 for a single tooth, on top of the price of required materials the procedure. However, ignoring the need for an implant costs much more over time. A missing tooth or prolonged use of dentures leads to bone and gum decay, while also exposing more surface area of the surrounding teeth to continuous wear and tear. Eventually, issues such as nerve exposure and bone loss cause increased discomfort for the patient. The corrective procedures done at this point are exponentially more painful and expensive for a patient. Dental implants prevent bone loss and allow patients to live a much more comfortable life.

Why do people choose dental implants instead of other options for missing teeth?

Dental implants are the most natural-looking and natural-feeling replacement for missing teeth. Unlike many other tooth replacement options, dental implants do not slip or click when talking, laughing or eating, making for greater confidence in social situations. Dental implants are also considered a healthy option because they help to maintain the jawbone, keeping the facial structure intact.

How long will dental implants last?

Dental implants last upwards of forty years if taken care of properly. They often last a lifetime for patients that regularly brush, floss, and follow the dental recommendations made at their check-ups. While a dentist cannot guarantee the long-term success of a dental implant, the dentist can provide guidelines and suggestions to better care for your teeth. These suggestions are based on proper hygiene procedures, your own genetic history (including diseases that run in your family), and your nutritional habits. Following the recommendations put in place by your dentist ensures the implant has the best chance to last the rest of your lifetime.

What Are Common Side Effects and Complications? What are the disadvantages of dental implants?

Dental implants are one of the most successful procedures in dentistry, with an average success rate of 95%. Dental implant failure occurs most frequently in heavy smokers, as the toxins and nicotine inhibit the body’s healing process. In fact, the success rate for smokers drops dramatically, to 50-70%.

Like any minor oral surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, inflammation, and pain, but your dentist will discuss how these can be managed for your specific situation. If there is no available bone to place the implant, then bone and gum grafting procedures may be required, which can increase the cost of your treatment. However, the upfront investment can pay off in the long term.

Does the body ever reject an implant?

Very rarely does a person’s body reject a dental implant. The jawbone readily accepts the implant, and the few rejections that do occur are caused by rare allergies to the titanium alloy that makes up the implant. Another reason for implant failure comes from the patient’s care after surgery. Without great oral hygiene, regular teeth fail and eventually fall out. A dental implant is no different. Taking care of your teeth, even the implants, prevents gum decay and structural failure in the long run.

What is the process for getting a dental implant?

Your dentist, who should be a credentialed dental implant expert, will place the implant into the jawbone. As you heal, your implant will fuse with your natural jawbone. Once the implant bonds with the jawbone, a small connector is placed on top of the dental implant to connect the implant to the replacement tooth or teeth.

What’s the Recovery Time for Dental Implants?

The procedure happens in several steps: first implant placement and then the placement of the crowns. While the implants need anywhere from six to 16 weeks to secure in the mouth, there should be little to no downtime. You may feel mild soreness or swelling for the first few days, but these can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications and shouldn’t affect your daily routine. Your dentist may also suggest a soft or liquid diet for a few days to a few weeks. Once the implants have healed, the crowns will be placed.

Does the surgery require time off?

Most people go back to work the day after the surgery, although it depends on your individual experience and the difficulty of the surgery. Some people prefer to take a day off to completely recover and allow their mouth to rest after the procedure.

How Do I Take Care of My Dental Implants?

Dental implants should be treated like your natural teeth, with daily brushing and flossing, and twice a year check-ups. Your dentists may suggest investing in an electric toothbrush and a water flosser. With the right care, dental implants can last a lifetime.[