Revere Dental Associates

Products And Services

• General Dentistry

  Teeth are strong, durable structures that endure massive amounts of pressure each day. It is important to protect the teeth and keep them strong through daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional care from a licensed and experienced general dentist. General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a wide range of dental conditions, as well as the maintenance of overall oral health for patients of all ages. This comprehensive care from a general dentist is usually the only source of care patients require for their dental needs. There are several different dental specialties, but general dentistry encompasses the basics of these specialties. General Dentistry Specialties Restorative Dentistry Many dental conditions damage the tooth causing aesthetic and functional changes that require special treatment. Restorative treatments can repair or replace teeth depending on the extent of their damage. Restorative procedures include: Fillings Dental crowns and bridges Dental implants Dental bonding Dentures Root canals Cosmetic Dentistry Many people seek cosmetic dental care after certain dental conditions or because of dissatisfaction with the appearance of their teeth. These procedures can improve the color, shape and size of the teeth and enhance the overall smile. Cosmetic dental treatments often improve self-confidence. Some of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments may include: Teeth whitening Porcelain veneers Bonding Full mouth reconstruction Gum Disease Treatment Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common dental condition that plagues many patients. Gum disease can be managed through treatments such as scaling and root planning, which can be performed by a general dentist. Surgery and other advanced treatments may be performed for later stages of the disease. While there are specialists for many of these dental treatments, a general dentist is able to perform most of these procedures. Complicated issues may be referred to a specialist such as a periodontist or prosthodontist, while age-specific patients may benefit from seeing a pediatric or geriatric dentist. Regular visits to the dentist are recommended at least once every six months in order to maintain proper oral hygiene and screen for any potential problems. Receiving regular checkups can help improve dental health and prevent major problems from developing. It is important for patients to work with their dentist to maintain their oral health. General dentists care for most patients' dental needs regardless of their age or treatment. These dental treatments restore health and beauty to the smile.

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• Cosmetic Dentistry

  Cosmetic dentistry encompasses not only the health of the teeth but also their aesthetic value. Various products and procedures exist within cosmetic dentistry with the goal of improving both the well-being and visual beauty of the teeth, giving the individual a higher level of self-confidence. Services provided by a cosmetic dentist include the following: Tooth bleaching Porcelain veneers Tooth-colored fillings Dental implants Dentures Tooth Whitening Tooth bleaching, also known as tooth whitening, has become so advanced and widespread that certain dental companies have marketed their own form of at-home tooth whitening products. While there is some merit to these home bleaching kits, there is nothing that compares to having a professional, nationally board-certified dentist perform this procedure on your teeth. When performed by a professional, the entire whitening process is abbreviated and can be completed in only a few short visits, compared to weeks of at-home treatment. Veneers Porcelain and composite veneers are effective aesthetic cover-ups for damaged or stained teeth. Although some veneers are designed to be removable, most are permanent and are bonded very tightly to the teeth they are protecting. Advancements in technology have improved the bonding agents to the extent that it is quite common for veneers to remain functional for 10 years or more. Fillings Cavities are painful and unsightly holes in the teeth that must be filled with inert material. Contemporary fillings, called dental composite resin, are much closer in due to the natural color of teeth. This allows the tooth to be protected but still look untouched. Dental Implants A dental implant is an artificial tooth replacement designed to fill the void created by a missing tooth. There are many types of dental implants, ranging from individual crowns to large scale dentures. A cosmetic dentist can ensure that not only will the most comfortable replacement be found, but it will be implanted in the most accurate and aesthetic manner possible. There are numerous options available to improve the overall health and appearance of the teeth and smile. Patients should consult with their dentists to decide which option best suits their specific needs and will most effectively meet their expectations.

  Link: Cosmetic Dentistry

• Tooth Whitening

  Teeth whitening or bleaching products brighten teeth that have been stained or darkened by food, tobacco use, age or injury. There are a variety of in-office and take-home teeth whitening products to reduce or eliminate such stains. In-Office Teeth Whitening In-office teeth whitening, also called chairside bleaching, takes place during a series of appointments at a dentist’s office. Advantages of in-office teeth whitening over take-home whitening include: Professional supervision Fast Safe and simple No sensitivity Take-Home Teeth Whitening Products Take-home bleaching solutions can help improve the color and overall brightness of teeth. These kits are simpler and less expensive than, and can be just as effective as, in-office treatments. Dentists provide patients with customized impression trays, whitening powder and whitening gel, the use of which improves the appearance of teeth over just a few days. Over-The-Counter Teeth Whitening Products Various over-the-counter products, such as whitening toothpaste and bleaching strips, are advertised as being effective teeth-whiteners. However, although based on the same science as professional bleaching, the concentration of effective ingredients tends to be much lower, lengthening the treatment time and often not providing the level of whitening desired. Whitening procedures are effective but not permanent. Depending on the procedure used, whitening may fade over time. Patients are advised to avoid food and drinks that may stain or darken teeth.

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• Veneers

  Veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells of ceramic that are custom-fit and bonded to the front of the teeth. They can create a white, even, and attractive smile. Veneers make it possible to correct a variety of problems, including: Spaces between the teeth Chipped teeth Yellowing or stains Misshapen or crooked teeth Small holes or pits in teeth Uneven or undersized teeth A veneer placed on top of a tooth can quickly and easily help achieve a beautiful smile. Although some veneers are designed to be removable, most are permanent and are bonded very tightly to the tooth they are protecting. The advancements in technology have improved bonding agents to the point where some types of veneers may last for 20 years or more. Types Of Veneers Porcelain Or Indirect Veneers Porcelain veneers are custom-made in a laboratory and applied to the teeth. They resist stains better than composite veneers and better simulate the shine of natural teeth. Two appointments are required for this process: one for taking an impression, and a second for preparing the natural teeth and placing the veneers once they have been created. Lumineers® and Vivaneers® are two types of porcelain veneers that are so thin they don't require any tooth-buffing before placement. Composite Or Direct Veneers Composite veneers are much faster and more efficient than porcelain veneers. They can be set and fixed within one visit and cost significantly less money. Composite veneers are thinner and require less removal of the tooth surface before placement. They can expand and contract with natural fluctuations in tooth size, which makes it the perfect choice for repairing fractured teeth. The Veneer Procedure The placement of porcelain veneers will require three appointments for the following: Diagnosis And Treatment Planning During this appointment, your dentist will examine the teeth to make sure dental veneers are appropriate. An X-ray may also be taken at this time. The dentist will also discuss the corrective abilities and limitations of the procedure, as well as provide the patient with an opportunity to take an active role in designing and discussing the restorative veneer process. Preparation At the second appointment, the teeth receiving the veneers are lightly buffed to prepare the surface for proper adhesion. The tooth is typically reduced by approximately one half of a millimeter. An impression is taken of the teeth and sent to the lab for creation of the custom-made veneer. A temporary veneer can be placed if the patient is uncomfortable with the appearance of the natural teeth. The veneer is usually ready one to two weeks later. Bonding At the third appointment, the dentist will test the veneers onto the teeth with water or glycerin to determine that they are perfect in fit and color. The color of the veneer can still be adjusted at this time by altering the shade of the cement used to adhere to it. Once the color is finalized, chemicals are applied to the tooth to optimize the bonding. Dental cement is then applied between the teeth and veneer. Finally, a special light is used to quickly harden the cement. Care And Maintenance Of Veneers Veneers should be treated just like natural teeth. They should be brushed and flossed regularly. Porcelain or Composite veneers will not be damaged by brushing and flossing, although using non-abrasive toothpaste is recommended. Sensitivity to hot and cold may occur after placement of veneers. This is caused by the reduction of enamel on the prepared teeth. Sensitivity is a very common residual effect that typically dissipates in one to two weeks. New veneers will help achieve the goal of improving the appearance of teeth. With proper home care and regular dental visits, patients will experience long-lasting success with their new veneers and smile.

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• Sleep Apnea Appliances

  Sleep Apnea Appliances are small mouth appliances that are custom fit over your teeth and are fabricated from dental impressions. The appliance gently positions your lower jaw forward while sleeping which opens your airway allowing you to sleep with out snoring. These devices have shown documented clinical success in reducing the effects of snoring and sleep apnea. Studies also show that approximately 50% of patients have difficulty getting accustomed to CPAP/BPAP machines. These intraoral appliances can provide an alternative treatment option for patients who do not feel comfortable using forced air-breathing machines such as CPAP and BPAP.

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• Implants

  Dental implants are an option to replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution to removable dentures. Dental implants are natural-looking replacement teeth that are fixed in the jaw. Implant treatment provides an option to correct the most troublesome cases associated with missing teeth and ill-fitting dentures. An artificial tooth root made of titanium, an implant is surgically placed into the jawbone to support tooth-replacement structures such as crowns, bridges and dentures. While the implant mimics the root of the tooth, the replacement structure looks and feels just like a natural tooth, providing patients with a permanent solution that replicates the fit and feel of natural teeth. Benefits Of Dental Implants Dental implants have many benefits over other tooth-replacement methods. Enhanced Esthetics Implants are placed within the gums. The crowns that are attached to them emerge in a manner similar to a natural tooth. This offers a more realistic and natural look compared to other alternatives. Reduction Of Bone Loss When a tooth is lost, the supporting bone structure gradually recedes over time. Dental implants integrate with the jawbone and stimulate its preservation, allowing the bone to stay healthy and intact while maintaining natural facial contours and appearance. Preservation Of Adjacent Teeth Other methods like fixed bridges must be anchored to adjacent teeth, unnecessarily sacrificing their quality and health. Dental implants are independent and do not rely on the support of other teeth, thus providing the ability to preserve the good teeth. Easier Eating As the jawbone shrinks, chewing efficiency is reduced, making it difficult to eat certain foods. Dental implants can restore chewing efficiency comparable to that of natural teeth, allowing patients to eat their favorite foods with confidence and without discomfort. The Dental Implant Procedure All treatment begins with a thorough exam and consultation. Typically, the process can take from 3 to 6 months. In some cases, the process may take longer because additional treatments, such as bone grafting, may be required to build up the bone so it can support an implant. The procedure and time frame depends on several factors: Dental health Condition and quality of the jawbone Number of teeth involved Dental implant restorations usually take place over a few appointments and involve several steps: The First Step A dentist or oral surgeon will cut into the gum to expose the bone. One or more implants are precisely placed into the jawbone to mirror the location of the root of the missing natural tooth. The Second Step After appropriate healing has taken place to allow for the implant to fuse within the bone, impressions of the teeth and bite are taken to custom-fabricate a connector post or abutment, and crown. The Final Step At the final appointment, the oral surgeon reopens the gum to expose the implant. The abutment and crown are attached to the implant, completing the process. Some patients may experience minor soreness after the dental implant procedure which can be treated with over the counter ibuprofen medication. Dental Implant Results Patients receive all the benefits of natural teeth with their dental implants. It is important to continue good oral hygiene with the implants to prevent bacteria buildup, which can cause gum disease or bone loss.

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• All-On-4/ New Teeth Today

  All on Four, New Teeth Today, or Full arch implant rehabilitation is a revolutionary procedure performed in conjunction with an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon that can allow a patient to restore an entire arch (upper or lower) or their full mouth in as little as one day using advanced dental implant technology. This a great option for patients that have struggled with severe dental diseases their entire lives, are faced with the loss of multiple teeth or who currently wear dentures and are looking to upgrade to much more functional teeth! Benefits Full mouth restoration in as little as one day Immediate ideal esthetic results Restores patients to full functioning teeth Stabilization of the jaw bone No risk of tooth decay

  Link: All-On-4/ New Teeth Today

• Dental X-Rays

  Dental X-rays are a vital part of a dental examination There are two main types of dental X-rays: those taken with the X-ray film inside the mouth (intraoral) and those taken with the X-ray film outside the mouth (extraoral). Intraoral X-rays are the ones most commonly used. They provide detailed evidence of the growth of developing teeth, the health of tooth roots and surrounding bone, including the jaw. They also help the dentist zero in on any cavities. Extraoral X-rays, while they also show the teeth, primarily focus on the jaw and skull. They are therefore more helpful in diagnosing malocclusions, impacted teeth, and possible temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). Types Of Intraoral X-Rays There are three types of intraoral X-rays. Each type helps the dentist visualize a different aspect of the tooth. Bite-Wing X-Rays Bite-wing X-rays, named for the fact that the patient bites down on the film, provide details of both the upper and lower teeth in one section of the mouth. Since each one visualizes an entire tooth, bite-wings are used to evaluate changes in bone density that may result from gum disease and to detect decay. These X-rays are also valuable when the dentist wants to fit a crown or check on the integrity of fillings. Periapical X-Rays Periapical X-rays focus on fewer teeth, but show each entire tooth, from the crown to the root. They include images of any abnormalities of the root or surrounding jaw bone. Occlusal X-Rays Occlusal X-rays are larger than most other X-rays, and are most often used to track tooth development and location in children. Because these X-rays show the entire arch of the upper or lower teeth in the jaw, they help the dentist to evaluate possible bite problems. Types Of Extraoral X-Rays There are many types of extraoral X-rays. Each has a somewhat different purpose. Panoramic X-Rays These X-rays take images of the whole mouth at once, showing all the upper and lower teeth at one time. Panoramic X-rays show positions of developing, fully erupted, or impacted teeth and are also helpful in diagnosing tumors. Tomograms Tomograms are designed to highlight a particular layer of the mouth that might otherwise be obscured by adjacent layers. These X-rays focus on the desired image and intentionally blur those that are in the way of the targeted structure. Cephalometric Projections Cephalometric projections provide an image of the entire side of the head, presenting views of the teeth in relation to the jaw. These X-rays are useful to orthodontists as they develop treatment plans to correct malocclusion. Sialography Sialography enables the dentist to visualize the salivary glands. In order for the procedure to take place, the patient is injected with a dye that allows the salivary glands to be seen on X-ray. This type of X-ray is used to detect blockages of the salivary glands or to investigate conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome. Computed Tomography Also known as CT scanning, computed tomography shows images of internal structures in three dimensions. This variety of X-ray, sometimes used to evaluate problems of the bones of the face, including fractures or tumors, is also employed to evaluate precise locations for dental implants and complex tooth extractions.

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• Emergency Services/Visits

  We offer 7 day a week emergency availability with one of our doctors whether it is during office hours or late at night. New patients are welcome on an emergency basis however please note prescriptions will NOT be called in over the phone without clinical evaluation for patients who are not of record in our practice.

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• Periodontal Scaling And Planing

  Scaling and root planing or "deep cleaning" is a procedure that is used to treat patients with periodontal disease or the lose of bone surrounding the teeth. This procedure is generally completed in 1-3 visits based on severity, and involves a below the gum cleaning of teeth. This is usually performed with local anesthesia (“novocaine”) and requires a follow up visit to evaluate the success of the treatment. Patients with periodontal disease generally require more frequent dental cleanings (3-4 months) to ensure stabilization of the disease process.

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• Complete Dentures

  Dentures are prosthetic devices designed to help patients with missing teeth, chew food, improve speaking habits, and improve the patient’s facial aesthetics. The absence of teeth can lead to a sunken, collapsed appearance to the mouth area. By restoring the physical presence of teeth, this malformation is corrected, the patient’s mouth is supported and the appearance is improved by aesthetic standards. Aesthetic dentures are custom crafted to provide a precise comfortable fit, and to enhance overall facial features. The color of the teeth is carefully selected and the natural differences in tooth shape and size are carefully chosen based on each individual’s age, gender and unique facial qualities. In addition, dentures are made to replicate the gum tissue naturally while providing the proper structure and support for lips, cheeks and face. Types Of Dentures There are three types of dentures: Complete Dentures Complete or full dentures are only required for people who have lost all or most of the teeth on either of the two arches of the mouth. Fixed Partial Dentures Most patients missing only a few teeth opt for fixed partial dentures, also known as "crown and bridge." These must be precisely installed, especially when in between healthy teeth. Removable Partial Dentures Removable partial dentures are different from fixed partial dentures in that they are normally only used by people who have lost too many teeth for fixed dentures, but too few for full dentures. Stability Of Dentures A frequent issue with dentures is their ability to remain in place during usage. This is based on the following factors: Support The denture may have a tendency to clasp tighter and tighter to the gums as the mouth chews food. The better the support, the less likely the denture is to move vertically closer to the arch upon which it is situated. Stability Movement in the horizontal plane, sometimes described as "slipping" front to back or side to side, can be hazardous to the patient. The quality of a denture base is responsible for preventing movement and maintaining continuous contact with the gums. However, this is heavily dependent on the patient's oral anatomy. Retention Retention describes the tendency of the denture to move vertically away from the gums, into the lumen of the mouth. The craftsmanship of the denture is tested here, as the better the intaglio or the inside of denture, copies the oral topography, the more effective the seal is. Maxillary dentures, used for the top teeth, achieve better unification with toothless gums due to the improvement in suction from the smooth surface. However, mandibular dentures, used for the bottom teeth, are much more effective if the patient still retains some teeth.

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• Cosmetic Bonding

  Dental bonding is a special procedure used to restore, reshape and rejuvenate teeth, improving both their function and appearance. Dentists apply a thin layer of tooth-colored plastic to the front of the tooth and sculpt it to perfect the patient’s appearance. Dental bonding is used to repair chipped, cracked, broken, misshapen teeth or stained teeth or to fill in the spaces between teeth. Dental Bonding Material The dental bonding material is made of a composite resin, or plastic, that hardens and fuses to the tooth when the dentist shines a special light on it. Once in place, the bonding material is shaped to correct the specific defect, colored to match the patient’s natural tooth and polished until it is smooth. The Dental Bonding Process Applying bonding to a patient’s teeth requires a three-step process. Step One An etching solution is applied to the tooth or teeth to prepare them to receive the bonding material. This solution gently roughens the surface of the tooth for a stronger bond between the tooth and the plastic. Step Two A thin layer of the bonding resin is placed on the surface of the tooth and is sealed in place using a special light. Several layers of resin may be added and hardened in turn. Each layer takes only a few minutes to harden. Step Three The bonding material is sculpted to the desired shape and colored to match the shade of the natural teeth. Finally, the bonding material is polished until it is entirely smooth. The dental bonding procedure takes 1 to 2 hours, and its results may last for up to 10 years before any restoration is necessary.

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