Tag Archives: Lafayette Cosmetic Dentist

CEREC

Can a CEREC Crown Look Natural?

I’ve had a CEREC crown before, but only on a bottom tooth which wasn’t very visible. I didn’t really care what it looked like. Now I’ve got a front tooth which needs a crown. I like the convenience of a CEREC crown, but want something that looks natural and will match the adjacent tooth very well. Can a CEREC crown do that?

Anthony

Dear Antony,

A tooth receiving a CEREC crown
Which is better for a Front Tooth a CEREC or Traditional Crown?

So, this is a mixed bag. CEREC crowns are great and Dr. Malone does them as well. They’re made of all-porcelain. While porcelain looks very natural and does a great job mimicking natural tooth structure. However, a CEREC crown is milled out of a single block of porcelain. That won’t have the same subtleties as a traditional crown which can be milled from various blocks which, with the right dentist can make it look exactly like the tooth it’s replacing.

If you’re talking about one of your two center front teeth, then I’d go with a traditional crown. A front tooth further back you could get away with using a CEREC crown. It’s still porcelain and the convenience of one appointment is generally worth it.

Teeth Whitening and CEREC Crowns

If you’re planning on getting any kind of dental crown on your front tooth you may want to consider whitening your teeth first. Once the crowns are made, the color can’t be changed. If you’re perfectly happy with the color of your teeth, there’s no need to do anything. But, if you’ve considered getting them whitened doing it before the crown is made saves you money.

It’s also okay if you want to do it, but just not now. In the future, you can get them whitened. You’ll just want to change the crown after you do. It’s completely up to you when and even if you do it. I just wanted to let you know in case this could save you money in the long run.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.

Porcelain Veneers

Can Porcelain Veneers Cause Gum Disease?

I recently received a set of porcelain veneers. Not very long after my gums started bleeding periodically when I brush. At my last dental check-up, the hygienist told me I’m starting to develop gum disease. I don’t understand what is going on. I’ve never had problems with either cavities or my gums and am very diligent with my oral health care. Is it possible that the porcelain veneers caused my problem? Have you heard of porcelain veneers causing gum disease?

Brenda M.

Dear Brenda,

Porcelain Veneer being placed on a tooth

What’s going on with your gums certainly isn’t normal. If you haven’t changed any habits and the problem started shortly after the placement of your porcelain veneers, it makes sense that you suspect them. However, porcelain veneers on their own will not cause gum disease. Poorly placed porcelain veneers, on the other hand, can cause loads of trouble.

Is it possible your regular family dentist was the one who placed your porcelain veneers? Because the problem started after you received your porcelain veneers, there is likely a connection. Sometimes, an inexperienced cosmetic dentist has trouble getting the veneers flush against the gums. That creates a ridge where bacteria can get caught and will lead to things like gum disease and decay. This could sabotage your oral health. Your hygienist may not recognize it as a problem because that’s how she is used to seeing it in their office.

Dealing with Porcelain Veneers with Margin Issues</h2

There are a few ways this can be dealt with:

  • Water Pick: If you’re otherwise fine with your porcelain veneers and love the overall smile makeover, you may want to invest in a water pick and see if makes a positive difference. It may just give you the extra kick you need to keep bacteria out from the ridge.
  • Have Your Dentist Check the Margins: If your dentist double checks whether the margins are properly fit and admits they’re not, he should fix them at no cost to you.
  • Second Opinion: Some dentists have a hard time admitting if they’d made a mistake. If you want to be certain you can get a second opinion from another dentist to find out exactly.

A word of advice about getting a second opinion. Make sure you don’t tell them what dentist did your work. Then you’re putting the dentist in the position of saying something against someone he may be close friends with. Instead, just tell him to look at the work and tell you what he thinks. Nothing else.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.

Uncategorized

CEREC vs. Traditional Crowns

I’m considering getting a CEREC crown. Are they as good as their traditional counterparts?

Matt.

Dear Matt,

A tooth receiving a CEREC crown
Which is better a CEREC or Traditional Crown?

In one corner we have traditional porcelain crowns. Tried. True. Proven. Strong. Beautiful (with the right dentist). Though, they do take a couple of appointments. They’re milled from more than one block of porcelain.

In the other corner are the CEREC crowns. Tried. True. Proven. Strong. Beautiful (with the right dentist). Made in one appointment. Though, they’re milled from one solid block of porcelain.

Each time I type “Though”, I’m showing the downside of that particular type of crown. While two appointments aren’t horrible, it is definitely more convenient to have it done in one. You miss less work. You use less time. You have your permanent crown from the beginning. So, it would seem that the CEREC crown would be the better bargain. After all, the other features seem to be the same.

So, what’s the big deal about the “Though” for CEREC crowns? Why does it matter if you mill a crown from one block of porcelain or more than one block?

The difference comes from a cosmetic standpoint. Your teeth aren’t of identical translucency from top to bottom. The edges, especially at the bottom, are less opaque than the rest of the tooth. It seems to “thin out” a bit as you move down. There’s also a whiter color in the center than you’d find as you move down.

When you mill from a single block of porcelain, the crown will seem the same from top to bottom. They can look a little flatter because there aren’t those subtle varieties.

When a dentist can draw from more than one block and craft them together, you get the subtleties that reflect light a smidge better in natural teeth.

When to NOT Get CEREC Crowns

In most cases, CEREC crowns are fantastic. They’ll still look beautiful. They’ll still match your teeth. They’ll still hold up to the stresses of daily use. The one exception is on a very front tooth. If you’re getting a crown on one of your very visible front teeth, that’s when I would opt for a traditional crown. This will allow the dentist to use his artistry and make sure every subtle variety of light and color comes through.

Other than in that case, you will get a gorgeous crown with CEREC AND save yourself an additional appointment.

One word of caution. No matter which you decide on, once the crown is completed and bonded on, the color cannot be changed. If you’re going to get your teeth whitened, do it before getting your crown designed.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone

CEREC

Can’t Get CEREC Crowns from My Dentist

I’m so sick of temporary crowns that fall off all the time. Every time I’ve gotten a crown it’s been a disaster from the get-go. I get a temporary and it falls off at every meal. It’s impossible to deal with. Now I find out I need another crown. I told my dentist I want a CEREC crown so I don’t have to deal with a temporary. He insists they’re not as good. I’m seriously considering switching dentists over this. What do you think?

Fanny,

Dear Fanny,
A tooth receiving a CEREC crown

I can understand your frustration. While temporary crowns do occasionally fall out (after all, they’re meant to be temporary) what you’ve experienced is way beyond normal. It says a bit about the skill of your dentist. I wouldn’t normally suggest switching dentists simply because you want a one-day crown, but it seems like your dentist lacks skill.

I’m not sure why he means they’re not as good. They’re just as strong as their traditional counterparts. The biggest difference and the only weakness I can see in comparison is CEREC crowns are milled out of a single block of porcelain. Some dentists feel that for your very front teeth it would look better for you to have a traditionally made crown so the dentist can craft it from several blocks of porcelain giving it more natural variety.

Cerec Crowns and Teeth Whitening

One other thing to consider. Hopefully, your dentist told you that once crowns are milled, their color is permanent. If you want your teeth whitened, you should do it before getting this latest crown if it is in a visible part of your smile.

That way your dentist will match your crown to the new color. Of course, if any of your old crowns are visible, those will need to be re-done to match. If they’re on back teeth which don’t show while you smile, I wouldn’t bother changing them though.

Picking a New Dentist

If you do decide to switch dentists over this issue. May I suggest you consider every type of procedure you may want, even future. If it’s just a good general dentist you want, who keeps up with the latest technology, that won’t be too hard to find.

If, however, you have more cosmetic interests in your future you’ll want to find a highly skilled cosmetic dentist. If they keep up with the advances in cosmetic work, you can be almost positive they keep up with the general side as well. So, how do you find an expert cosmetic dentist in your area? I’d check the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry’s website. You’ll want to be certain to get a dentist who’s reached accreditation level.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.

Invisalign

Doubling Invisalign Trays for Teeth Whitening

I’m getting Invisalign which I’m very excited about. My dentist also offers teeth whitening. It appears that the trays for teeth whitening and the trays for Invisalign are quite similar. I noticed that I can buy the gel online. This will allow me to get both procedures done for so much less. Could I use the aligners as whitening trays?

Miranda D.

Dear Miranda,

A woman placing in her Invisalign aligners

I’ll start by telling you that, yes, your Invisalign aligners can double as whitening trays. The caveat being, you need to make sure you’re a good candidate for teeth whitening. I would not recommend just purchasing whitening gel online to use in the aligners, especially if this is your first time whitening your teeth.

You’ll want to be under the observational care of your dentist during your first whitening because there are complications that could arise which you won’t know the warning signs for. He (or she) can spot them and take helpful steps before any complications become more serious.

Secondly, you have no way of knowing whether the gel you’re purchasing is reputable or even equally strong as the gel your dentist can provide. Even worse, it could be material that will damage your teeth.

Teeth Whitening Only Works on Natural Teeth

If you have dental work, such as fillings or dental crowns, they will not whiten with the whitening gel. Instead, your teeth will whiten and the dental work will remain the same color. So, if they’re visible when you smile, you’ll want to replace them when the procedure is done. The same goes for dental bonding.

You will likely find that once your Invisalign and Whitening are done, you will have a stunning smile. You’ll gain confidence and smile more. In turn, you’ll appear more positive and successful to others, which will bring you opportunities previously hidden.

Also, keep your final pair of aligners. Keep them clean and stored carefully, then once a year or so, you can ask your dentist for another tube of whitening gel for a touch-up. Many dentists are willing to provide that if you keep up regularly with your cleanings and check-ups.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.

CEREC

Do CEREC Crowns Last Longer than Regular Crowns?

My dentist told me I need three crowns. I was shocked because my last checkup didn’t show any decay. He wants me to get CEREC crowns. I like the fact that they can be done in one appointment. But, my insurance only covers the older crowns. Is it worth the extra cost? Do they last longer than the regular crowns?

Elliot

Dear Elliot

Machine for CEREC Crowns
CEREC Crowns are Milled by Computer

When you’re talking about the longevity of crowns, it’s not as much whether you use CEREC or traditional. The length of time any crown lasts, regardless of the kind, depends on two factors—the skill of the dentist and the habits of the patient.

On the patient end, it’s important you keep up with your home care. Regular brushing and flossing are a must. The dentist has several responsibilities. They have to choose the right materials. They have to know the proper techniques for attaching the crown. Traditional crowns are cemented. CEREC crowns are bonded, which is a completely different (and more involved) technique.

Two dentists can make the same crown. One will last five years; the other will last ten. It wasn’t a difference between the type of crown as much as the skill of the dentist. Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist how long his crowns typically last.

The Differences Between CEREC and Traditional Crowns

There are two advantages to CEREC crowns. The most obvious one is you can have all three of your crowns completed in one visit. Second, they’re milled by a computer which generally helps with their fit. They’re actually great for side teeth. Some cosmetic dentists don’t like placing them on front teeth because they’re milled from a single block of porcelain. In that case, they feel they can craft them better traditionally.

Another weakness for CEREC crowns AND traditional all-porcelain crowns are on back teeth. They can’t always hold up to the pressure of the biting forces your molars have to take. In that case, you’d want either a metal-based crown or a zirconia crown if you have any metal sensitivities.

No matter what crown you choose. Once the crown is made, the color is permanent, so if you’ve been considering teeth whitening be sure to do it before you get your crowns if they’re in a visible place. If they’re all back teeth, that won’t matter. You can get your crowns and then whiten later.

Consider a Second Opinion

One thing you said bothered me. You mentioned your last checkup showed no signs of decay and suddenly you need three crowns. That sounds just a bit hinky to me. While it’s possible that you could have decay that spread quickly, if you get regular cleanings there should have been some sign of decay.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.

Porcelain Veneers

Why are my 1-Year Old Porcelain Veneers Staining?

I’ve had porcelain veneers for about one-year. In fact, I’m still paying on them. I noticed today they’re picking up some mild staining between my teeth. I thought they were stain resistant. Is something wrong? What do I do?

Karlyn M.

Dear Karlyn,

A single porcelain veneer being held up by a dental tool

You’re right that porcelain veneers are stain resistant. In fact, they’re more resistant than our natural teeth and should last you many years with proper maintenance. If damage had been done to your veneers, which is possible if your hygienist uses a prophy jet or an acidulated fluoride, the staining is over the entire tooth.

Because your stains are between the teeth, it makes me think you’ve got some composite bonding staining there. Though, I couldn’t tell you exactly without seeing a picture of it. This is fairly easy to solve and is actually just part of routine maintenance for your veneers. However, your average family dentist won’t know this polishing procedure. So, for this particular part of your regular maintenance, I’d go back to the dentist who placed your veneers to begin with.

Proper Maintenance for your Porcelain Veneers

  • Daily Oral Care: Be sure you’re brushing and flossing regularly. While your veneers are decay resistant, the exposed parts of your teeth are not. You’ll need to keep up with your care so you don’t end up needing a filling on a veneered tooth.
  • Toothpaste: I’m sure your cosmetic dentist already told you this, but the ideal toothpaste for you to use is Supersmile toothpaste. It’s specifically designed for use with cosmetic work.
  • Regular Polishing: Just as your veneers were polished when you first received them, you need to schedule regular re-polishing appointments. The hygienist uses ultra-fine polishing strips in this area and an aluminum oxide polishing paste. For smokers, that’s even more important.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.

CEREC

Dentist Won’t Let Me Get a CEREC Crown on Front Tooth

One of my front teeth needed a dental crown. I am tired of going to the dentist’s office and told him I’d prefer the one visit crown. But, he told me he never does those on front teeth. Shouldn’t that be my choice?

Mel

Dear Mel,

Machine for CEREC Crowns

I realize you said you’re tired of going to the dentist. But, let me ask you if going one more time meant the difference between a beautiful, natural-looking smile or something that looked good but just a bit off, would you be willing to make the extra trip?

CEREC crowns are wonderful. They’re attractive, they’re strong. But, they’re milled from a single block of porcelain. Your front teeth are so visible and receive much more light than the rest of your teeth that they need all the natural subtleties that you can only get by using different porcelains. Traditional all-porcelain crowns don’t have that problem because your dentist can craft them using more time.
image of a tooth Notice that as you go down the tooth it becomes more translucent but at the edges it’s a little more opaque. You can’t get that without baking different layers on. To accomplish that with a CEREC machine, you’d need an expert cosmetic dentist.

How to Find a Dentist Who Can Give You a Gorgeous CEREC Crown

Very few dentists can give you a stunning CEREC crown on a front tooth. But, if you absolutely cannot handle the idea of two appointments, you’ll need to go to the right dentist. Ideally, you’ll want a dentist who is accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). These dentists have past stringent exams and demonstrated their artistry in creating beautiful smiles.

Something you should also be aware of is any type of dental work, such as dental crowns, white fillings, or porcelain veneers will not whiten like your natural teeth. The color your dentist makes them is permanent. If you’re considering whitening your teeth, you’ll want to do so before you get your crown so it can be made to match your new whiter teeth.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.

Invisalign

How Do I Purchase Invisalign For a Christmas Gift?

I want to get my wife a mini smile makeover for Christmas including Invisalign and teeth whitening (if I have enough for both). Unfortunately, I’m having trouble getting my dentist to agree to let me pre-purchase. He says she has to come in for an exam first to see what it will entail. If I ABSOLUTELY had to, I will but I’d hate to ruin the surprise. I like seeing people’s eyes light up when they open something. She doesn’t even realize I know she wants them. Is there a way to get them without her finding out ahead of time?

Marvin G.

A woman placing in her Invisalign aligners

It sounds like you’re a thoughtful and attentive husband. I love that you noticed something your wife had on her heart without her telling you. I bet we can find a way for you to surprise your wife, but I’ll explain what your dentist is likely thinking.

It’s hard to totally pre-purchase Invisalign because so many things factor into the cost. In addition to the possibility she not a good candidate, the price is determined by the amount and type of movement needed, the number of aligners required, etc.. All of that will factor into the payment. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t get it ahead of time.

I’d suggest to your dentist you make an estimated pre-payment and then if it turns out she’s not actually a good candidate, you can get a refund. If he’s still resistant, you could just make up a beautiful “announcement” using a free graphic design program, like Canva, and put that under the tree for her. Then, after Christmas, she could head to the dentist’s.

Invisalign and Teeth Whitening

It shouldn’t be too hard to pay for both the Invisalign and teeth whitening. Most dentists will allow you to use the Invisalign aligners as teeth whitening trays. That actually ends up saving you money in the long run.

There is something to be aware of with the limitations of teeth whitening. If she has any other dental work, such as fillings or dental crowns, they won’t whiten with her teeth. The whitening gel only works on natural tooth structure. That doesn’t mean she can’t have it done. But, once she’s attained the level of whitening she wants, you can have them re-made to match. Today, with white fillings, it’s very easy to get dental work to match whatever shade you need, as long as you have a qualified dentist.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.

Cosmetic Dentist

What’s the Difference Between a Cosmetic Dentist and a General Dentist?

I can’t seem to figure out the difference between a general dentist and a cosmetic one. My dentist is a general dentist but he also does cosmetic things like teeth whitening and Lumineers. Is there a difference or do they just label themselves for the kinds of patients they want to draw and do both kinds of work?

Sandy M.

Dear Sandy,

A ugly cosmetic smile and a pretty cosmetic smile

There is no difference as far as a specialty. There isn’t a recognized specialty in Cosmetic Dentistry with the American Dental Association. Any Cosmetic Dentist is actually just a general dentist who also does cosmetic work.

That being said, there is a huge difference regarding quality and beauty that varies from dentist to dentist and it doesn’t matter which label they use. A good example of this is the image above. Both smiles are of the same woman and both smiles had the same type of dental work done. On the left, she had dental crowns. On the right, she had dental crowns. The only difference is the dentist.

The dentist on the left didn’t understand what materials to use to give her a natural looking smile. He technically knew how to make and bond dental crowns and is likely a decent general dentist. But, if you want anything appearance related it will take someone with both technical skill and artistry. That’s what the dentist on the right had.

Fixing Botched Cosmetic Dental Work—A New Industry

Most patients would be surprised how much business comes to high-quality cosmetic dentists, like Dr. Mike Malone, because they are fixing botched cosmetic cases. I suspect your dentist isn’t a high-quality dentist. The only reason I’m saying that without seeing examples of his work is his reliance on Lumineers. These are generally marketed to inexperienced cosmetic dentists as being easy to place. But, the results are often opaque and bulky. So, how do you not end up with a smile makeover disaster?

If I were in the market for a complete smile makeover with porcelain veneers, I’d look for a dentist who’s reached accreditation level with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). There is a difference between being a member of the AACD and an accredited member. Any dentist can pay the fee to join. But, to become accredited, you have to pass stringent oral and written exams as well as demonstrate your artistry in many, many recent cases.

They’re among the top 1% of cosmetic dentists in the country. If you’re looking for a beautiful smile, they’ll create one for you. In fact, many of them have a beautiful smile guarantee.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.