Dental Veneers or Cosmetic Bonding: Which One Should I Get?

White, straight teeth are beautiful. If it’s your goal to have straight, white teeth, your dentist in Medina, OH can help. At Evanko Dental Group of Medina, we offer a range of cosmetic dentistry procedures that can help you get the teeth you’ve always wanted.

Two potential options are dental veneers and dental bonding. These cosmetic dentistry procedures are similar but have some significant differences. We can help you choose, but first, you should know more about the procedures.

What Are Dental Veneers?

A dental veneer is a thin, tooth-shaped cover attached to the front of the tooth. To make space for the dental veneers, the dentist must shave down the front of the tooth. Once the tooth has been altered in this way, it must always have a dental veneer on it. Dental veneers are a permanent solution to your cosmetic dentistry problem.

Pros and Cons

  • Pro: Dental veneers are permanent.
  • Pro: Dental veneers give your teeth a straight, even appearance.
  • Pro: Dental veneers cover stains, chips, and gaps between teeth.
  • Con: Dental veneers require the dentist to shave down some tooth enamel.

What Is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a layer of composite resin that’s attached to the front of your teeth. Dental bonding looks like your natural tooth, but it can hide stains and other cosmetic problems. Unlike dental veneers, dental bonding can be adhered to your teeth without shaving down the tooth enamel.

Pros and Cons

  • Pro: Dental bonding can be used to cover stains, chips, and gaps between teeth.
  • Pro: Dental bonding is generally more affordable than dental veneers.
  • Pro: Dental bonding can be installed without shaving off part of your tooth enamel.
  • Con: Dental bonding is not permanent. It lasts a few years and then needs to be touched up.

Making A Decision

Are you not sure whether to choose dental bonding or dental veneers? The dentists at Evanko Dental Group of Medina can give you information that can help. If you have questions about veneers and dental bonding in Medina, OH, call today to make an appointment.

What Are Same Day Crowns?

Same-day dental crowns in Medina, OH are made of a ceramic material that matches your tooth’s natural color. While the cost of same-day crowns varies, the quality and durability of each procedure are unquestionable.

Same-Day Crowns in Medina, OH vs. Traditional Dental Crowns

Same-day dental crowns are a modern way to replace your missing tooth. Traditional crowns require two appointments and several weeks for fabrication. During the first appointment, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth and send it to a dental laboratory. Technicians then use this impression to build the final restoration. This process can take several weeks, and you may end up wearing a temporary crown for weeks. But with the help of recent technology, you can get a high-quality, custom-made dental crown in as little as one visit.

How Same-Day Dental Crowns Work

As long as your tooth meets the qualifications, you could be a candidate for same-day dental crowns. With computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing (CAM), the dentist can create your new crown in just over two hours. Using 3-D scans of your tooth, the Medina, OH dentist creates a model and then mills the crown in the office. With a same-day crown, you can be back to your regular activities in just a little over two hours.

Benefits of Same-Day Crowns

Same-day crowns are made from the same material as traditional lab-milled crowns and can withstand typical daily wear and tear. While no dental crown is indestructible, same-day crowns need to be cared for just as you would care for your natural teeth. And because they are made of porcelain, they look just like natural teeth. You and your closest friends and family members won’t even notice that any original tooth structure is damaged or missing. If you have a damaged tooth, same-day dental crowns may be an excellent choice for you. Same-day crowns do not have the drawbacks of traditional dental crowns, plus they can be installed in just one appointment.

If you have one or more damaged teeth, why not consider same-day dental crowns? Contact your Medina, OH dentist today to learn more.

What Causes Teeth to Stain?

Teeth can get stained by certain foods and drinks. Teeth can also be stained by various activities and lifestyle choices. If you want to maintain clean teeth that appear white and pearly, you’re not alone. Knowing what causes teeth to stain can help you avoid things that will cause your teeth to turn yellow, brown or gray.

Staining Agents

There are many foods and beverages that can cause stains on your teeth. Some common staining foods and drinks include coffee, tea, red wine, tomato sauce, soy sauce, beets.

Some lifestyle choices can also stain your teeth. For example, smoking can cause your teeth to turn brown. In addition, poor oral hygiene habits can also cause your teeth to become stained. If you don’t floss once daily or brush your teeth twice per day, your teeth may be more likely to become stained.

What You Can Do

Fortunately, there are many things you can do to make your teeth less likely to stain. One thing you can start doing is swishing with water after eating, especially when you’re eating or drinking something that is likely to stain your teeth. Swishing with water helps wash away some of the staining agents that are left behind after you swallow.

Another thing you can do is pay more attention to your oral hygiene routine. Don’t let yourself slide on brushing teeth in the morning and the evening. Floss daily. Not sure if you are doing a good job flossing and brushing? Talk to your dentist in Medina OH. Your dentist can show you how to brush your teeth properly and ensure that you’re flossing the right way.

Get Your Teeth Whitened

If your teeth have turned yellow or brown and you’re frustrated with the state of your teeth, it may be time for teeth whitening in Medina OH. Professional teeth whitening with a dentist is better than getting your teeth whitened with a whitening kit at home, because professional teeth whitening is more effective and lasts longer.

Want to know more about getting your teeth whitened with the dentist office? contact Evanko Dental Group of Medina. Our dental professionals will help you get the smile you want. Call today to make an appointment.

What Is an Overdenture?

If you need dentures but don’t like the way they must be worn or the possibility of them slipping, you are going to love overdentures. But what are overdentures?

What Is an Overdenture?

Overdenture’s in Medina OH, also called implant-retained dentures, are a removable dental prosthesis that covers and sits on one or more of your natural teeth, the roots of your natural teeth, or one or more dental implants. So in other words, overdentures can be supported by one of your natural teeth or a dental implant. An overdenture looks just like a standard denture. The only difference is in the way you wear them.

What Is the Difference Between a Standard Denture and an Overdenture? 

A standard denture requires a patient’s remaining teeth to be extracted. The dentures will then be cemented onto the gums or affixed using a removable adhesive. Alternatively, an overdenture will be constructed then surgical implants will be placed into your jawbone to serve as anchors for your new overdenture. Then locators (which are essentially ball and sockets) will be attached and are what keep the prosthetic overdentures in place. It is also what gives you the ability to remove them. However, some overdentures are fixed permanently in place.

The Benefits of Overdentures

Most people in Medina, OH find overdentures to be more comfortable than standard dentures. Overdentures also look better, don’t irritate your gums, and allow you to eat anything you want. Additionally, overdentures fit better than standard dentures. This is because overdentures have a better hold on your teeth. And lastly, overdentures give you increased functionality because they have a firmer grasp than standard dentures. That’s why people with overdentures find it easier to eat, speak, and perform other everyday tasks.

How Long Do Overdentures (Implant-Retained Dentures) Last?

Overdentures will usually last somewhere between 10 and 20 years if they are properly cared for. However, removable overdentures tend to need the snap retention piece replaced every 12 to 18 months. This is because of the repeated snapping in and out of the prosthesis.

Do Overdentures Prevent Bone Loss?

Yes, most dentists in Media, OH say that, in most cases, overdentures can help prevent bone loss. This is because there is less friction on the gums as a result of using an overdenture, so the jawbone is preserved, and bone loss is prevented.

Have Questions about Overdentures in Medina, OH?

Contact Evanko Dental Group of Medina today to schedule an appointment or ask any questions you might have about overdentures or any other dental procedures. We look forward to hearing from you.

3 Reasons Invisalign Works Well for Teens

Finding out that your teen needs braces can leave you with several different options for smile alignment, but Invisalign treatment in Medina, OH is often the most preferred. In truth, Invisalign aligners work out well for teens. Here is a look at some of the reasons teens often prefer Invisalign and why the treatment can be highly effective for patients in this age group.

1. Invisalign is not a big change to the appearance

One of the biggest perks for teens facing the smile alignment treatment process is the fact that Invisalign is practically invisible. The teen can undergo treatment without concerns about metal braces changing their appearance, getting in the way of school pictures, or otherwise. Metal braces, on the contrary, are highly visible, can change how the lips are shaped, and do change the appearance of the person undergoing treatment.

2. Invisalign allows food flexibility

When a teen gets standard metal braces, they will be given a list of foods they have to avoid so they do not damage the metal brackets and wires when they eat. For example, hard candy, chewing gum, and even popcorn can be off-limits. With Invisalign aligners, the aligner is actually removed at mealtimes. Therefore, the teen can continue to eat the foods and snacks that they prefer without worrying about damaging their braces.

3. Invisalign is effective for most adolescent spacing issues

Most adolescents will have mild to moderate spacing issues with their smiles. A few examples of alignment or spacing issues include:

  • Gaps between teeth
  • Slight tooth crowding
  • Overbite or underbite

Invisalign is highly effective at correcting these mild to moderate issues, much in the same way that traditional metal braces can correct these issues. Even more noteworthy, the treatment time with Invisalign can be similar to the duration a patient would have to wear regular braces.

Schedule a Consultation for Invisalign in Medina, OH

Invisalign can be just as effective as standard metal braces when it comes to smile alignment issues among adolescents. If you believe your teen would be a good candidate for Invisalign treatment, a good Medina, OH dentist can help. Reach out to us at the Evanko Dental Group of Medina to schedule your consultation today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Veneers  

Dental veneers in Medina are soaring in popularity as more people become aware of their benefits. If you’re interested in dental veneers, here are answers to the most frequently asked questions.

How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

Dental veneers last between five and ten years. With excellent care they will last longer. When it’s time to replace your veneers, visit your Medina dentist.

Aren’t Dental Veneers Only For Movie Stars?

In the past, dental veneers were primarily used by movie stars and celebrities in the public eye. However, since dental veneers have become more affordable, they are accessible—and appropriate—for anyone wishing to improve their smile; no celebrity status required!

Can I Eat Regular Food With Veneers?

When you have dental veneers, you’ll be able to bite and chew just as you would with your regular teeth.You don’t have to “baby” your teeth or worry that your veneers are going to fall off mid-chew. However, you will want to care for your dental veneers just as you would with natural teeth. Certain food items are best avoided; even for people with no dental veneers. These include:

  • Toffee
  • Chewing on ice
  • Rock candy
  • Peanut brittle
  • Jawbreakers

As you can see, any candy or food item that is very hard or extremely sticky or hard on the teeth should be avoided by everyone, especially those with dental veneers. However, you’ll be able to enjoy all “regular” food, including lobster, bacon, steak, apples, etc. If you have a specific food in mind, just ask your dentist in Medina to find out if it’s off-limits for some reason.

What Conditions Can Dental Veneers Help With?

Dental veneers are ideal for permanently stained teeth, etched teeth, gaps in the teeth and chipped teeth. The dental veneers will successfully cover and hide those imperfections and restore your smile to its best version.

Do I Qualify For Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are best for those who have cosmetic problems with teeth; not health problems. For instance, if you have cavities or gingivitis or gum disease, you’ll need to have treatment to take care of those health issues before getting dental veneers. Otherwise, you are just covering up a problem that will worsen over time.

The time has never been better to get dental veneers in Medina. Contact Evanko Dental Group today to learn more about this exciting dental treatment.

 

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Bonding to Close a Gap in My Teeth?

Others may proclaim the gap between your teeth is cute, but if you are the person with the gap between your teeth, you may be self-conscious about the problem. Gaps between front teeth can be caused simply by genetics, but they can also be related to spacing issues that were not corrected when you were a child. While braces can be an option for closing a gap, many patients prefer the quick solution of having their teeth bonded instead. Are you a good candidate to have a gap bonded? Take a look at a few things to consider.

Dental bonding works best for gaps between certain teeth.

Dental bonding tends to work best on teeth on the upper jawline because these teeth are larger with more surface area to work with. However, bonding may be a possibility on lower teeth; it just depends on the location of the teeth, their size and shape, and the size of the gap.

Bonding is best for gaps that are not too wide set.

Bonding procedures work best for gaps that are not excessively wide set. While the procedure can be effective to close a wide gap, the end aesthetic result can be teeth that look much larger than what would be natural. Therefore, if you have an especially large gap, the dentist may recommend alternate treatments to correct the issue somewhat first, such as Invisalign or invisible braces.

Your teeth should be in generally good condition.

Bonding the teeth involves using a composite resin material that adheres to your natural teeth. Therefore, your natural teeth do need to be generally healthy for the procedure to be logical. If you have small points of decay, the dentist will take the time to fix these areas before they will bond your teeth.

Find Out More About Dental Bonding Procedures in Medina, OH

Dental bonding can usually be completed in one visit to your dentist, and you can step away with a smile that you feel more confident about sharing. If you want to know more about cosmetic dental procedures, reach out to us at the Evanko Dental Group of Medina.

4 Ways Modern-Day Dentures Have Evolved

While dental innovations have afforded many new smile restoration options, dentures are still the most popular choice for those who have lost their teeth. If you have been looking into getting dentures yourself, you will be pleased to know that modern-day dentures have really evolved over the years. Here is a closer look at just how much these smile replacements have changed.

1. Dentures are more realistic in appearance than ever.

Many patients who need dentures are under the impression that the mouthpieces always look like fake teeth. However, modern innovations have made it possible to create dentures that look far more realistic than they ever have before. Thanks to changes like lifelike gum tissue to synthetic teeth that boast a natural shade and shape, many people have dentures and the people around them have no idea.

2. Dentures can be better fitting due to digital dentistry.

Not only do dentists take impressions before making dentures, but they may also use digital instruments to garner accurate measurements of the shape of the mouth and jaws. Digital dentistry is an excellent resource during denture creation because these techniques allow for the appliances to be perfectly built to be a perfect fit.

3. Dentures can be more aligned with your natural smile.

When you go in for a consultation about dentures, the dentist will go to great lengths to make your new smile look as much like your natural smile as possible. The dentist may:

  • Take measurements of your existing teeth before they are extracted
  • Look at photos of your smile from the past
  • Work with you to pick the proper tooth and gingival shades
  • Examine your natural bite

4. Dentures can be anchored in place if needed.

For patients who have a great deal of bone loss or have issues with traditional dentures staying firmly seated, implant-supported dentures and partials are now a possibility. These dentures are seated on surgically implanted posts so they cannot shift and move as you speak or chew.

Talk to Us About Dentures in Medina, OH

When all is said and done, modern-day dentures are an excellent way to restore chewing power and your smile. If you are interested in dentures, reach out to us a the Evanko Dental Group of Medina to schedule an appointment.

 

Myths About Dental Veneers Uncovered

If you are unhappy with some imperfection about your smile, cosmetic dentistry offers a world of options to help you. Dental veneers are one of the most straightforward options for correcting smile issues, but there are so many myths about this cosmetic dental treatment. Here are a few of the ongoing myths and the facts you should know.

Myth: You can’t get veneers for only a few teeth.

It is an ongoing myth that veneers are meant to cover all of your teeth. However, the fact is, some people get veneers to cover only one tooth, a few teeth, or pertinent teeth in their smile that cause issues. For example, if you have one tooth that is discolored due to prior root damage, this tooth alone can be covered with a veneer.

Myth: Veneers require permanent damage to the surface of your teeth during application.

Porcelain veneers do not damage your teeth. The bonding products that are applied to adhere the veneer to the tooth is not harmful. In some cases, the surface of a tooth has to be manipulated in order to prepare it for veneer application, but this is usually only necessary in certain situations.

Myth: Most people are not good candidates for dental veneers.

In fact, many people are good candidates for dental veneers because this is a more simplistic cosmetic procedure that does not involve surgical actions. A lot of people assume you can’t get veneers if your teeth have any form of decay, which is also not the truth. Veneers can actually protect teeth with damage from further decay.

Myth: Veneers stain much easier than natural teeth.

Veneers can be made out of porcelain, composite, or other materials. While some materials can be easier to stain than others, most well-designed veneers do a really good job of thwarting problems with stains. Plus, with good dental hygiene habits, you really should see no problems with stains showing up on your teeth.

Let’s Talk About Dental Veneers in Medina, OH

Getting the facts before you choose to opt for or forgo a dental veneer treatment is ever important. If you have questions about dental veneers in Medina, OH, reach out to us at Evanko Dental Group of Medina to schedule a consultation.