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Dentist on Ridgeway in Coquitlam BC>invisalign
burnaby cosmetic dentistry invisalign
FAQ
April 30, 20180

Cosmetic Dentistry: Enhancing your Smile

Cosmetic dentistry continues to lead in popularity, and the technologies and techniques dentists use continue to evolve to provide even better results in a shorter amount of time. While most patients think that it involves little more than teeth whitening and replacing lost or damaged teeth, there’s quite a bit more to it than that.

A beautiful smile has a huge impact on your confidence and how the people around you perceive you. Before we take a look at some of the more popular cosmetic procedures, let’s define what cosmetic dentistry is – how it’s changed, how it impacts your smile, and how it’s perceived by people at large.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a method of professional oral care that focuses on improving the appearance and health of your mouth, teeth, and smile. And although cosmetic dentistry procedures are usually elective, rather than essential, some cases of treatment will also provide restorative benefits.

The most common procedures used in cosmetic dentistry are fairly simple, whereas others are more complex and require specialized care.

How has Cosmetic Dentistry changed?

A number of historians believe that ancient civilizations have been practicing aesthetic dentistry since as far back as 700 B.C. People who had dental problems wore dentures created out of animal teeth, bones and even seashells. Later on, during the reign of the Roman Empire, the people learned the value of ammonia and other similar abrasive substances in removing tooth stains. By the 1700s, dentists began creating teeth covers out of porcelain.

How can Cosmetic Dentistry impact your smile?

It’s endless what cosmetic can do for your smile. Cosmetic dentistry can help whiten your smile (zoom whitening), improved biting and chewing (porcelain veneers), a straighter smile (Invisalign), healthier teeth & gums (bonding & gum contouring), a stronger smile (dental implants), and prevent future damages (dental crowns) which all lead to a more confident smile.

Five Types Of Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

Composite Bonding

Composite bonding refers to the repair of decayed, damaged or discolored teeth using material that resembles the color of tooth enamel. Your dentist drills out the tooth decay and applies the composite to the tooth’s surface, then “sculpts” it into the right shape before curing it with a high-intensity light. Also referred to as simply “bonding,” per the Consumer Guide to Dentistry, this effectively covers the damage to the tooth and gives the appearance of a healthy tooth in its place. Bonding is one of the least expensive cosmetic dentistry procedures available to patients with tooth decay, chipped or cracked teeth and worn-down edges.

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Dental Veneers

Dental Veneers are typically manufactured from medical-grade ceramic and are made individually in a lab for each patient to resemble one’s natural teeth, according to Coquitlam Dentist Dr. Komal Dhir. They look exceptionally realistic and can resolve numerous cosmetic problems, ranging from crooked teeth, to cracked or damaged enamel to noticeable gaps between two teeth. The dentist applies the veneer to the front of each tooth using a dental adhesive.

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Teeth Whitening

One of the most basic cosmetic dentistry procedures, teeth whitening or teeth bleaching can be performed at your Coquitlam Dental Office or at home with our Free Take-Home Whitening Kit for new patients. Whitening should occur after plaque, tartar and other debris are cleaned from the surface of each tooth, restoring their natural appearance. Teeth can also be bleached to achieve an even lighter shade than this original color, according to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA).

Over the years, teeth become stained and worn from food, drinks, medication and personal habits such as smoking. Whitening coats the teeth and this procedure can be done in the dental office or at home. Additionally, patients can use whitening toothpaste to achieve the same effect.

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Implants

Dental implants simply are used to replace teeth after tooth loss. Our dentist will insert a small titanium screw into the jaw at the site of the missing tooth, which serves as the support for a dental crown. These implants are almost indistinguishable from the surrounding natural teeth, and once the bone and supporting tissue fuse to the implant, they are permanently secured into place. Dental Patients need to practice diligent oral hygiene during the implant placement period to clean plaque and food debris from the area.

If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry procedures, it’s vital to find a cosmetic dentist who specifically offers the option you’re interested in. Talk with family and friends to find out if they can refer to you a dental professional.

At Ridgeway Dental Office in Coquitlam, our dentists have placed over 1000’s of implants.

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Invisalign

Invisalign® is a custom-made clear aligner that is interchanged roughly every two weeks for a period of six to eighteen months, or longer depending on the severity of misalignment of the patient. Similar to a mouth or dental retainer (which is designed to keep teeth from shifting out of place), an Invisalign® aligner is used for orthodontic treatment as a technique to move and properly align teeth for a beautiful smile. This clear aligner is usually computer generated from a mold (or impression) of the patient’s teeth—taken by our dentist in Coquitlam—and the fitting is unique to each patient only.

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invisalign dentist
FAQ
September 19, 20170

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign

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.

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 doctor, 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.

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.

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 require 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.

How much does Invisalign cost? We know cost is a big question for anyone considering orthodontic work. In most cases, Invisalign treatment is comparable to the cost of traditional braces. However, as with other medical treatments, only your Invisalign-trained doctor 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, where you live, and additional factors determined by your dentist or orthodontist. Also, check your dental insurance plan—Invisalign treatment is covered by many dental insurance policies. And many doctors can offer flexible and affordable monthly payment plans as well.

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 orthodontists and 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. More than 82,000 dentists and orthodontists worldwide are already trained to treat patients using Invisalign.

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.

What if I’ve had braces, veneers, bridgework or have other special dental conditions will Invisalign aligners work with them? Please consult with your dentist about any special orthodontic cases, such as veneers, braces.

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.

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.

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.

What happens 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 long-term retention options.

Will Invisalign really work for Me? To find out if you’re an Invisalign candidate, first make an appointment with your dentist on the website. In addition to determining if your particular dental problem can be fixed with Invisalign, you 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.

dentist invisalign burnaby
Cosmetic Dentistry
August 31, 20170

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.