Comprehensive Examination
As part of a comprehensive dental exam at Edmonds Family Dentistry, you can expect Drs. Jonathan and Michiko Huang to provide the following services:
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• An examination of any diagnostic x-rays (as needed). This is essential for the early detection of tooth decay. X-rays also help the doctors determine tooth and root positions, as well as identify tumors, cysts, and bone loss.
• An oral cancer screening. Drs. Huang will check areas of your face, neck, lips, gums, tongue, throat, and surrounding tissues for any signs of oral cancer. Personal preventative measures include smoking avoidance, limiting alcohol use, and practicing good oral hygiene.
• A gum disease evaluation, where the gums and bone around your teeth are examined for any signs of periodontal disease.
• An examination for tooth decay, where special instruments are used to check tooth surfaces for signs of decay.
• An examination of any existing fillings, crowns, and tooth restorations.
• And possibly intraoral and facial pictures.
Composite Fillings
A filling is used when a dentist needs to restore tooth structure commonly caused by fractures or decay. Dental fillings are also used to restore decayed cracked, or chipped teeth, improve the appearance of stained teeth, change the shape of teeth, or close spaces between gapped teeth.
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Before a filling is placed; cracks, decay and all old defective restorative materials (usually amalgam, gold, ceramic or old composite) are completely removed. Dental composite (white filling material) is placed over a bonding agent, which bonds composite to tooth structure.
Crowns and Veneers
In cosmetic dentistry, porcelain veneers are thin layers of durable, restorative material that are custom crafted in porcelain by a professional dental laboratory. As part of a cosmetic (or smile enhancement) consultation with Drs. Huang, your porcelain veneers are carefully fashioned to meet the tooth color and shape requirements you desire.
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Porcelain veneers typically requires two visits to see Drs. Huang, where teeth impressions are made and a custom mold is created. Once your desired color and shape are selected, the veneers are custom shaped and bonded onto the surface of the existing teeth. The process is painless and the result is beautiful and natural in appearance.
Custom veneers, as with most dental restorations, can dramatically reshape your teeth and smile – creating a greater confidence in your smile and improving self-esteem. In certain situations, porcelain veneers are a modern alternative to crowns and other dental restorations.
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As with some dental restorations, porcelain veneers are long-lasting but not permanent. Your porcelain veneers will certainly create a beautiful, enduring smile that you can be proud of for many years to come, but they may require replacement at some future date. Treat your new veneers just as you would your natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing and dental visits.
Many patients come to Edmonds Family Dentistry for custom porcelain veneers. Of the many reasons for veneers, our patients typically see us for the following:
• To create a beautifully-white, uniform, smile.
• Correct visual aspects of crooked teeth.
• Cover worn, discolored, or misshapen teeth.
• Change the appearance of teeth that are too large or small.
• Cover the appearance of uneven spaces.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that can be used as a replacement for natural tooth roots. Replacement teeth, supported by dental implants, look and feel like your own teeth and can be placed in either the upper or lower jaws. Due to their unique and bio-compatible properties, titanium dental implants fuse well with natural bone and act as an anchor for replacement teeth. Dental implants provide many advantages and can be used in situations that call for the replacement of single or multiple missing teeth.
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Why Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a replacement for natural tooth roots, without which the jawbone can shrink. Unlike traditional dentures or dental bridges, dental implants can prevent jawbone shrinkage and the unwanted physical appearances of this malady. Any person who is missing one or more teeth is a candidate for dental implants. Drs. Huang may discuss the role of dental implants in your overall dental care assessment.
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How will dental implants affect my life?
Replacement teeth, as supported by dental implants, have all of the look and function of normal teeth. Chewing capacity is not diminished, meaning that you can eat and drink as you normally would. Furthermore, your dental implants and replacement teeth will allow you to smile again as normal.
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How will I care for my dental implants?
Your new replacement teeth are just like your natural teeth. Brush and floss as recommended. See your dentist every six months for regular maintenance.