Dardenne Dental

What Are Dental Veneers?

If you would like to have a brighter smile and you’re looking for a more permanent option than teeth whitening, porcelain veneers could be your solution. These dental fixtures are customized for each patient to closely resemble natural teeth and improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or misaligned teeth.

In this video clip, you’ll learn what dental veneers are and how they are applied. Unlike crowns which fit over the entire tooth, veneers are only applied to the facial surface. Not everyone is a candidate, but your dentist can let you know if you are. Watch this clip to learn more.

If you are interested in dental veneers and live in O’Fallon, contact Dardenne Dental. We offer cosmetic dentistry procedures in addition to general dentistry services. Call us at (888) 752-4175 to schedule an appointment.

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures for Perfecting Your Smile

Your smile plays a huge role in not only how you see yourself, but also in how others see you. Cosmetic dentistry services such as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, crowns, dental bonding, and dental implants can transform a dull, lackluster smile into one that dazzles.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is the most requested cosmetic dentistry procedure. Though teeth whitening techniques can vary, their goal is the same: lighten the shade of the teeth to as white as naturally possible. Over-the-counter whitening kits are available for home use, but nothing can compare to the professional treatment you’ll get from a dentist. Professional treatments not only offer immediate results, but also last for much longer.

Porcelain Veneers and Crowns

If you are unable to achieve your perfect look with whitening alone, porcelain veneers or crowns could be an option for you. Fillings cannot be whitened, but a porcelain veneer can create the look you want. Porcelain veneers are thin shells that cover the front surface of the natural tooth; they can also be shaped to correct minor imperfections such as chips or small gaps between teeth. Porcelain crowns are a good choice when there is not much natural tooth structure remaining. A crown fits over the entire tooth, and looks and functions just like a normal tooth.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding uses a composite material to shape and sculpt small imperfections in the tooth. Bonding is an excellent choice for repairing damage done by an injury, such as chips in the enamel. It is also possible to conceal minor gaps with bonding.

Dental Implants

If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental implant could be an excellent solution. Implants use a metal rod anchored to the jawbone to provide a support structure for a porcelain crown. The end result is one that is stunning, natural, and completely functional.

If you are interested in improving your smile through cosmetic dentistry procedures, contact Dardenne Dental in O’Fallon. We provide all of these services in addition to family dentistry services. Call (888) 752-4175 to schedule a consultation.

For More Useful Information About Your Dental Care, See the Links Below

Do you have more questions about tooth stains, how sedation dentistry can benefit you, and how tooth whitening can do more than just brighten your smile? If so, click through the links below to find answers.  

• For a list of the foods you should avoid to preserve your pearly white smile, check out this slideshow from EveryDayHealth.com. 
• The American Dental Association offers a few easy tips for reducing your dental anxiety.  
• If dental anxiety is keeping you from undergoing the cleanings and treatment you need to maintain optimal oral health, take a look at this article for tips on how to overcome your fears.  
• CBS News asked a dental specialist about which foods to avoid to prevent tooth stains. To learn which foods you may want to cut back on, check out the video.  
• Find out how you can benefit from professional teeth whitening by reading this article from the California Dental Association. 

Dardenne Dental offers preventative dental services, restorative and cosmetic dental treatments, sedation dentistry, and more. To schedule an appointment, call (888) 752-4175 today.

The Top Foods and Drinks that Stain Your Teeth

Unfortunately, many of the healthiest foods to eat are also the hardest on the color of your teeth. To find out which food items are the worst, read through the following list and ask your dentist for more information. Remember this rule of thumb: If the food item can stain your carpet or clothes, it can stain your teeth.

Coffee and Tea
Thousands of people can’t start their day without a rich cup of coffee or tea, but these beverages are some of the worst stain offenders. Despite how hard healthy tooth enamel can be, the outer layer is incredibly porous, making teeth highly absorbent and susceptible to stains. Consider adding milk to your cup of joe to lighten the color, or wait to brush your teeth until after you’ve enjoyed your morning brew. The tannins in teas also cause stains, so switch to green or white tea, add milk, or brush right away. When drinking iced tea, use a straw to minimize contact with the surface of your teeth.

Red Wine
Red wine offers many heart-healthy benefits, but because of its dark, tannin-rich color, it can stain your teeth rapidly, so you may need to cut back if you want to preserve your pearly white smile. But don’t give up wine altogether! Wines can reduce inflammation, which can minimize your risk for gum disease.

Dark, Savory Sauces
Dark sauces like ketchup, soy sauce, and A-1 steak sauce taste great when paired with meaty meals, but just like dark beverages, they can stain your teeth. Use these condiments sparingly and swish your mouth with water after your meal. Also, don’t pair a savory sauce with a dark beverage like wine, coffee, or fruit juice.

Dark Fruits and Vegetables
Blueberries and beets, some of the darkest foods you can eat, are incredibly staining. Strawberries, oranges, red grapes, squash, radishes, and tomatoes can also stain and erode your enamel. You shouldn’t shy away from eating these foods, but remember to take extra care of your teeth after consuming them.

If you need professional tooth whitening treatments, call Dardenne Dental today at (888) 752-4175. We specialize in cosmetic dentistry and offer the incredible Zoom! Whitening system, so choose us for all your dental care needs.

Who is A Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

It’s common to feel anxious about going to the dentist. Many people fear feeling pain, getting bad news about their dental health, and paying for dental treatments. However, avoiding the dentist could lead to serious health problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Sedation dentistry eliminates anxiety and discomfort when visiting the dentist and undergoing treatment. Find out if you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry by reviewing the information below.

People Who Put Off Going to the Dentist
Most people who experience dental anxiety avoid going to the dentist regularly. However, routine checkups, dental exams, and teeth cleanings are crucial for a healthy mouth and body. People who don’t visit the dentist regularly are at an increased risk for developing gum disease and cavities. When these conditions develop, patients require more dental care. Talk to your dentist about sedation dentistry so you can keep your dental visits to a minimum and receive the recommended preventative care.

People Who Experience Anxiety During a Dental Appointment
If you suffer from stress-related symptoms during your dental appointment, ask your dentist about quick and affordable sedation dentistry methods such as nitrous oxide. Symptoms such as a racing heart, sweaty hands, and negative thoughts are all signs that you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry. If you know you’re prone to dental anxiety, ask your dentist about taking an oral sedative before your next appointment.

People Who Are Sensitive to Dental Work
For patients with severe teeth sensitivity, undergoing dental treatment can be difficult and uncomfortable. Those with strong gag reflexes may also be unable to comfortably receive dental work without sedation. Additionally, some people are not as responsive to the numbing effects of local anesthetics and may require a more powerful sedative to feel comfortable and at ease.

If you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry, visit Dardenne Dental for all of your general and cosmetic dental needs. We aim to provide comfortable, stress-free care using cutting-edge dental technologies. We offer preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental services, so call us at (888) 752-4175 to schedule your next dental appointment.