Cosmetic Dentistry Archives | Sterling Heights Dentist, Dr. Farhat of Dental 1 Care

Improve Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry

June 28, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Cosmetic dentistry has advanced so much that the options available to those who want to improve their smiles are so abundant that they may need help in selecting the procedure which is best suited for their needs. Here is a brief discussion of some of the cosmetic dental procedures offered at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights. Use this information to narrow down your options as you consider ways to fix any cosmetic defect you or a loved one has.

Teeth Whitening

As you grow older, the foods and drinks you consume, the medicines you take, and other factors take a toll on your teeth, thereby causing them to lose their natural bright color. When that happens, several options are available to you to restore your bright smile. For example, you can ask Dr. Fardi Farhat, a leading dentist in Sterling Heights, to prepare a customized teeth whitening tray which you can use at home to get rid of the stains in a gradual process. Alternatively, the experts at Dental One Care can perform in-office teeth whitening using a stronger bleaching agent than what is contained in at-home teeth whitening kits.

In-office teeth whitening may be more costly when compared to at-home teeth whitening, but you get quicker results, and the process is overseen by a professional. For instance, while at-home teeth whitening may take several weeks to show results, in-office whitening brings results immediately, and you walk out with brighter teeth.

Dental Veneers

You may have heard of veneers on furniture, haven’t you? Well, dental veneers also refer to thin materials that are placed on the front of your teeth for one or several reasons. For example, the veneer may be used to cover a permanently stained tooth, or it can be intended to improve the appearance of a poorly shaped tooth.

Veneers are mainly used to provide a temporary fix to cosmetic defects on the teeth which are visible when you smile or speak. You shouldn’t, therefore, consider them as a remedy for a defect affecting the teeth at the back of your mouth.

At least two visits are needed to get veneers. The first visit to Dental One Care caters for the initial consultation as well as taking an impression of the teeth upon which veneers will be placed. Color matching is also done during this visit. The second visit is for placing the veneers on the teeth once the external dental lab sends the completed restorations back to Dr. Fardi Farhat. Veneers are more complex and therefore, more expensive than dental bonding.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding entails placing tooth-colored resins on a tooth with a minor defect, such as a chip, discoloration, or poor shape. The resin bonds with the tooth under the influence of a special light. This simple procedure can be completed in one visit to Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, unlike veneers, which require several visits. However, the material used during bonding stains and cracks easily, so you want to take better care of the bonded tooth if you want to retain the bond for years.

Dental Crowns

As the name suggests, a dental crown covers your entire tooth in the same way that a cap does on one’s head. Crowns are the cosmetic restoration of choice when serious structural or cosmetic damage occurs. For example, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy may be so weak that only a crown will keep it together for years. Similarly, badly fractured teeth need crowns to retain their structural and aesthetic integrity.

The superior strength of crowns comes from the materials, such as porcelain, gold, and other metals, from which they are made. Crowns can be temporary or permanent. Temporary crowns are made from less durable materials since they aren’t intended to be used for long. Permanent crowns are usually fabricated by an external lab, so you use the temporary crown while you wait for the permanent one to be made. Crowns are more expensive than the cosmetic dentistry procedures described earlier, but they make up for that higher price tag by their durability.

Enamel Contouring and Shaping Procedures

If you want to make minor changes to the size, shape, and position of your teeth, then talk to the experts at Dental One Care. The Sterling Heights dentists will remove some enamel from the surface of your teeth in order to fix the defect which has you bothered. Many times, enamel shaping and contouring is done in combination with dental bonding since the removal of some enamel from your teeth can leave them weaker.

Dental Braces

Braces are primarily used to correct dental crowding, misalignment, bite problems, and jaw muscle issues. Traditionally, braces were composed of metal wires while today there are plastic nearly-invisible aligners used to move your teeth in a more discreet way. Some conditions, such as when you want to move back teeth with deep roots, are better handled by traditional metal braces while other cases, such as minor misalignment, can be fixed using clear braces. Talk to Dr. Fardi Farhat to find out if you qualify for the clear braces (Invisalign, for example). The correction of your dental defect usually takes several months as the braces are adjusted periodically while they slowly move the teeth to their new positions.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most complex and expensive cosmetic dentistry procedures. It involves the surgical placement of a metal screw (usually titanium) in your jaw and letting that metal fuse with your jawbone before a component called an abutment is placed in the implant. The top part of a tooth replacement called a crown is attached to this abutment anchored in the implant. The entire process can take anywhere from three months to more than half a year, depending on how quickly your body can heal after each of the different steps of the procedure. Nearly everyone can get dental implants since some of the limiting factors, such as bone loss, can be corrected through other procedures (bone grafts, for example). We asked our friend, Dr. Matt Laurich, a dentist in Livonia, MI, about dental implants. Dr. Laurich says dental implants are one of the best cosmetic treatments you can choose from at the dentist because they basically pay for themselves since they last forever!

Many more cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as dental bridges and procedures to fix indentations in your gums, also exist. Talk to Dr. Fardi Farhat and an appropriate cosmetic dentistry procedure will be recommended to fix your specific condition. Why stay with an imperfect smile when solutions exist?

Is Dental Bonding for Me?

June 24, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Dental bonding refers to a process through which your dentist in Sterling Heights places a special resin on your tooth to fix a minor cosmetic or structural issue. This procedure is very popular for very many reasons as you will discover in the discussion below.

Defects Where Dental Bonding is Helpful

Discolored teeth. When your tooth or teeth are discolored, Dr. Fardi Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, can apply this special resin to the affected teeth so that their color matches that of the rest of your teeth.

Minor chips. When your tooth is chipped, it can develop an unflattering appearance especially if that tooth is among those that are visible when you smile. In such a case, you can contact Dental One Care so that dental bonding is applied to mask the chipped area of your tooth.

Small teeth. Some people’s teeth are naturally small and those individuals would like to have their teeth made slightly bigger. Dental bonding comes in handy in such situations since the bonding material can be placed on the sides of the teeth to make them look wider than they naturally are.

Short teeth. Some people want to make their teeth look longer than they are naturally. The team at Dental One Care can place the bonding resin on the top surface of those teeth in order to improve their length.

Minor gaps in teeth. Dental bonding can also be used to close the small unwanted gaps between teeth. For patients with this problem, Dr. Fardi Farhat places the bonding resin on the sides of the teeth so that the gaps are eliminated.

The Pros of Dental Bonding

Non-invasive. One of the biggest reasons for the popularity of dental bonding is that the procedure is non-invasive, unlike other procedures such as dental crowns or veneers. Dental bonding is therefore reversible because the structure of your natural tooth isn’t affected during the procedure.

It is quick and simple. Undergoing dental bonding on one or more teeth takes a short time to be completed. This means you can schedule the procedure within your workday and still get back to your to-do list without anyone being the wiser. This is unlike other dental procedures, such as getting dental implants, which take months to be completed.

It is affordable. The simplicity of dental bonding is also reflected in its affordable cost. The materials used for this procedure are readily available and no specialized skill is required to apply the bonding resin. The net result of all these attributes is that the bill you get at Dental One Care for this procedure will be affordable.

Many issues can be addressed at one go. We asked our friend, Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, about the benefits of dental bonding. Dr. Green says dental bonding can also fix more than one issue with the same tooth or teeth. For example, your local dentist can apply a bonding resin on a tooth to make it bigger and also cover the stubborn stain which hasn’t responded to teeth whitening treatments.

Potential Limitations of Dental Bonding

Dr. Fardi Farhat cautions that not every cosmetic problem can be fixed by dental bonding because this procedure best addresses minor defects only. For example, people with severely cracked teeth are better off getting a dental crown because it does a better job of giving the damaged tooth added structural strength.

Additionally, the dentist in Sterling Heights explains that the bonding resin used isn’t very strong, so this makes the procedure suitable for the teeth at the front of your mouth only. The back teeth are exposed to a lot of pressure as you chew and these forces can easily damage the bonding resin.

Dental Bonding Procedure

The initial exam. First, you will be examined by the Sterling Heights dentist to confirm that dental bonding will be helpful for you. Patients with major cosmetic or structural issues may be advised to opt for a more appropriate procedure.

Next, Dr. Farhat may or may not administer a local anesthetic around the tooth to be bonded. Anesthesia is usually not required, but people with chipped teeth or teeth with other abnormalities may need it since their teeth tend to be sensitive.

Once the anesthesia takes effect, the professional at Dental One Care will place cotton pads inside your mouth to keep saliva from interfering with the dental procedure.

An etching solution is now applied to the surface of the tooth to roughen it in preparation for the bonding resin going to be applied. This resin looks like putty and it is shaped before being placed on your tooth. The particular resin used is selected to match the color of your tooth.

Once the resin is in place, the dentist in Sterling Heights will use special tools to put final touches to the shape of the resin before polishing it to remove any sharp edges. The final step involves shining a special light on the resin so that it cures (hardens).

How to Care for Your Bonded Tooth

Avoid using your bonded tooth (or any other tooth for that matter) to bite hard substances, such as nut shells and ice. As already mentioned, the bonding resin isn’t very hard and can easily be damaged if used to bite or chew hard things.

Go for professional dental cleanings every six months so that the tooth beneath the bond remains healthy. Otherwise, the bonded material will detach from your tooth if the health of the underlying tooth is compromised by dental diseases.

Dr. Fardi Farhat also cautions that you should watch your intake of pigmented foods and drinks, such as coffee since these can easily stain the resin bonded onto your tooth. Once stained, the dental bond can only be replaced since it cannot be whitened in the same way that natural teeth can be whitened.

Do you still have questions about dental bonding? Contact Dental One Care for answers to any question you have about dental bonding or any other dental issue. Dr. Fardi Farhat and the entire team are standing by to give you the treatment you need to maintain your smile for the rest of your life.

The Must-Knows About Dentures

April 9, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

The Must-Knows About Dentures

Gone are the days when dentures were ill-fitting, unsightly and uncomfortable. Today, dentistry has taken so many strides that many people are opting for dentures even if other dental prosthetics could suffice for their condition.

Nevertheless, many who could benefit from these replacements don’t get them because they don’t have sufficient information about dentures. The experts at Dental One Care have put together this guide so that you can get answers to many of the concerns you may have had about dentures.

Of course not all your questions may be addressed here, so you may still need to talk to Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI for a personalized assessment of the suitability of dentures for your needs.

Dentures Defined

Basically, dentures are one of the replacement options when you have lost some or all of your teeth. The only distinguishing attribute of dentures is that they aren’t permanently attached or anchored in the jaw or natural teeth.

Dentures are designed to replace many teeth at a go, so they are the go-to option for those who have lost all or nearly half their natural teeth. Dentures can be full or partial depending on the needs of a patient.

When Should I Consider Getting Dentures?

Your Sterling Heights dentist may recommend dentures if you have wide gaps in your mouth due to the loss of several teeth in one or both the upper and lower row of teeth. These wide gaps rule out the use of fillings or crowns as options since there isn’t sufficient anchorage for these alternatives.

Older people who have endured pain and persistent root infections may consider dentures once all other options to save their natural teeth have been exhausted. In this case, the remaining teeth will be extracted and replaced with dentures to put an end to the infections and pain.

Dr. Farhat will recommend either partial or full dentures based on the number of natural teeth that you still have and the location of the gaps which need to be filled.

What Is Based on to Recommend Partial or Full Dentures?

As already mentioned, the dentist in Sterling Heights, MI considers several factors when deciding whether you should get a set of partial or complete (full) dentures. First, the number of teeth remaining plays a role.

If very few teeth are left (only four, for example), then the dentist may extract the remaining ones and give you full dentures. This is because those remaining teeth may no longer be serving any functional or esthetic role, and it could be costlier to design and manufacture a set of dentures that accommodates those remaining teeth.

Secondly, the condition of your remaining teeth will also be assessed before a decision to recommend full or partial dentures is made. If those teeth are extensively decayed or damaged (or have another serious dental issue that gives them a poor prognosis) then the teeth will be pulled and you will get full dentures.

How Are Dentures Made?

The exact process that is followed when creating a set of dentures will depend on the unique requirements of each patient. Generally, a detailed picture of your mouth is usually created by taking numerous measurements. A cast is then made and tried on to confirm that it fits your personal specifications. It isn’t uncommon for several of these casts to be made and tried on since a good fit is critical to the long-term utility of these prosthetics.

You, therefore, need to be patient throughout this process, especially given that you are unlikely to get your final set of dentures until after several weeks have elapsed in case some teeth were pulled.

This wait time is important because your mouth transforms during the healing process and the final fitting should be done once your gums and oral structures have reached some form of stability.

How Do They Stay Firmly in Place in the Mouth?

You may have heard horror stories (most likely exaggerated ones) that dentures dramatically fall out of the mouth when you laugh out loud or while you eat. You may have also been told that one must keep applying some kind of adhesive in order to retain the dentures in place.

Dr. Farhat explains that all those aren’t true because only ill-fitting dentures require an adhesive to stay in place. Fitting dentures rely on suction power to remain firm in the mouth. Your Sterling Heights dentist can only recommend an adhesive if your oral structures, such as the gums, change so much that you feel sore or have pain because the dentures are shifting in your mouth.

Even then, a new set of dentures, or an adjustment of your current set, is sufficient to fix the problem so that you don’t need to apply an adhesive anymore.

Is It Easy to Eat With New Dentures?

The professionals at Dental One Care say that it is normal for the dentures to feel awkward in your mouth during the first few weeks after you get them. This is because your oral structures haven’t gotten used to these devices, but this gradually changes as you use your dentures daily.

Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI recommends that you deliberately chew using both sides of your mouth so that all sides get used to the dentures. You will soon be able to use these dental replacements in the same way that you were using your natural teeth.

The only condition given is that you should avoid consuming very hard or sticky foods (hard toffees, for example) since these can dislodge the dentures. Chewing gum is a no too.

For How Long Should One Wear Dentures Daily?

Generally, dentures can be worn during the day and removed at night so that the gums can rest and repair themselves while you sleep. However, Sterling Heights dentists often ask patients to wear new dentures overnight in order to determine how well those dentures are fitting. Soreness, tenderness or pain in any section of the gum in the morning suggests that an adjustment needs to be made in that part of the prosthetics.

Do Dentures Require Special Care?

We asked our friend, Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO, about the care of dentures. Dr. Dhoon says that many people think that dentures require less care, which is not the case. Although dentures do not require any special care, you should still continue your oral health routine to ensure the longevity of your dentures. It is advisable to place them in a container of water overnight so that they stay supple and clean. You can add a cleaning solution to this water, but make sure to ask Dr. Farhat for his recommendations first.

You also need to brush the dentures after removing them in the evening and before you wear them in the morning. This will keep them clean and protect you from the oral bacteria that may have been breeding on them. Periodic dental visits are still necessary so that the experts at Dental One Care can monitor your oral health and act promptly if a problem develops.

An important tip that Dr. Farhat gives his patients is that they should always place a cloth or bowl beneath the dentures as they are brushing them. This will prevent the dentures from falling to the floor and being damaged if you accidentally drop them.

Aren’t Dentures Expensive?

The cost of dentures depends on several factors. First, the materials from which they will be made affects their price. Dentures made from cross-linked polymers are the most costly.

Secondly, the number of fittings that you need also add to the final cost of the prosthetics. There’s nothing you or your Sterling Heights dentist can do to control this since the unique issues you have may necessitate the use of several casts before the best fitting is achieved.

Thirdly, people who need tooth extractions also end up paying more since this step is charged separately.

It is advisable to talk to your dentist about any payment plans available if you are concerned about the cost of getting dentures. Also, find out about the warranty on the dentures so that you don’t pay more if the dentures fail within the warranty period.

Still have questions about dentures? Contact Dental One Care and all your concerns will be addressed. Or book an appointment today so that you can be evaluated and advised on the suitability of dentures for your needs.

What Happens If I Don’t Replace A Missing Tooth?

March 19, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth? A missing tooth is a very common problem among people due to bad eating habits, tooth damage, wear and tear and gum diseases. At Dental One Care, our dentist Dr. Farhat treats missing tooth problems on a regular basis. However, have you ever thought of the effects that a missing tooth can have on your appearance and overall personality?

The Effects of a Missing Tooth

A missing tooth makes you appear older than you actually are and gives you an unpleasant appearance. Additionally, it also places unnecessary pressure on the surrounding teeth and puts your oral health at risk. This makes it very important for you to consult a professional dentist in Sterling Heights to help you with the issue.

What Other Problems Can Occur Due To A Missing Tooth?

The most evident effect of a missing tooth is obviously reflected on your looks. But if you do not pay attention to it, severe problems can occur and pose a serious threat to your dental and oral health. Some of the common issues pertaining to a missing tooth that people seek treatment for at Sterling Heights dentists include the following:

Crooked Teeth

We asked our friend, Dr. Cody Cowen, a dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, the question of what happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth? Dr. Cowen says that crooked teeth are one of the most common results. Your teeth provide support to each other. When there is a missing tooth, the neighboring teeth begin to shift towards the gap. With time, this leads to crooked teeth, issues in biting and pain in your jaw joint.

Tooth Decay and Gum Conditions

When your teeth shift as a result of missing tooth, you might not be able to properly brush the surface and in-between while brushing and flossing. Due to improper cleaning, plaque deposits on the surface and between your teeth. This condition increases the risk of various gum diseases as well as tooth decay, leading to the loss of another tooth.

At Dental One Care, our qualified and experienced dentist, Dr. Farhat, provides professional treatment for all kinds of teeth and gum diseases.

Loss of Bone

Your teeth provide support to your jaw bone by stimulating the growth of the jaw bone. When you have one or more missing teeth, this can lead to jaw shrinkage, which changes the structure of your jaw and ultimately the shape of your face.

TMJ Disorders

When you have a missing tooth, other teeth shift to take its place, gradually. This puts a strain on the Temporomandibular joints (TMJ) of your jaw bone which is connected to your skull bone. Due to this strain, you are likely to experience headaches, pain, and discomfort in your TMJ joints.

Dietary Changes

Missing teeth not only have adverse effects on your appearance and oral health but also affect your diet. A missing tooth makes it difficult for you to eat many healthy foods, such as raw vegetables, fruits, etc. This harms your health in the long run.

All these problems associated with a missing tooth cause health, social and professional problems. There are several treatment options available at Dental One Care for missing teeth, which include dental bridges, dental implants, and full or partial dentures. Our expert, trained and experienced dentist, Dr. Farhat is proficient in performing all dental procedures with proficiency and care at our Sterling Heights Dentist Clinic.

How to Fix Crowded Teeth

February 27, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

How to Fix Your Crowded Teeth

Crowded teeth are a common occurrence, but that provides little comfort to someone who is living with this condition. Fortunately, many remedies exist, but you need to work with your dentist to understand your specific situation before selecting one of those remedies. Read on and learn more about this condition and what Dr. Farhat at Dental One Care can do about it.

The Causes of Crowded Teeth

According to Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI crowded teeth result when your jaw is too small to accommodate all your teeth, or the teeth can be too large to fit in your jaw. People who have a cleft palate or cleft lip can also suffer from crowded teeth.

Dentists in Sterling Heights have also handled cases of individuals who have crowded teeth resulting from the presence of extra teeth in the mouth or trauma to the jaw. Breathing through the mouth, allergies, asthma, thumb sucking and other similar habits have also been associated with crowded teeth.

Risks Associated With Crowded Teeth

Heightened Risk of Dental Trauma:

People who have crowded teeth are at a higher risk of suffering trauma to their teeth. This is because some of their teeth may protrude from the mouth. Any misaligned teeth can also suffer extensive damage in the event of trauma to the mouth.

Speech Problems:

Dr. Farhat explains that some people with crowded teeth can have difficulties with their speech. This is especially true for people whose crowded teeth prevent their tongues from moving freely during speech. These people may need to undergo speech therapy to correct the problems caused by the crowded teeth.

Potential for Compromised Overall Health:

Numerous studies have pointed to health complications in the rest of the body due to oral health problems. For example, oral bacteria can eventually migrate and cause heart disease if gum disease is left untreated for long. Crowded teeth create favorable conditions for such systemic problems to develop since it can be hard to maintain oral hygiene when you have crowded teeth.

Abnormal Tooth Wear:

Crowded teeth are also prone to wearing out prematurely, especially when bite issues result from that crowding. Many people with crowded teeth have some teeth that don’t align properly with the corresponding teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Consequently, there will be direct contact between the affected teeth as one is chewing. This causes the teeth to wear out sooner than they would have.

Periodontal Disease:

Gum disease or periodontal disease is more likely to exist among people with crowded teeth. As already mentioned, it is hard to clean your teeth properly when those teeth are crowded. Sterling Heights dentists say that many people with crowded teeth have bad breath for this very reason (inability to clean their teeth properly).

Treatment Options for Crowded Teeth

Cosmetic Recontouring:

One of the treatment options that Dr. Farhat considers for someone with crowded teeth is cosmetic recontouring. During this procedure, the crowded and misaligned teeth are reshaped so that they can fit properly again. This method is usually sufficient for people with a minor case of teeth crowding.

Braces:

Your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI can also recommend that you wear braces in order to deal with the problems associated with teeth crowding. This treatment option can last for several months or even years as the teeth are gradually shifted to better positions. Dental aligners are an alternative to braces for this approach. We asked our friend, Dr. Matt Laurich, a dentist in Livonia, MI, about treatment options for crowded teeth. Dr. Laurich says that braces are one of the most common options patients choose. Braces will not only help the crowded parts of your mouth but also enhance the overall look.

Tooth Removal:

In some cases, dentists can opt to extract some teeth in order to deal with a severe case of overcrowding. Once this is done, the remaining teeth may have the space that they need to shift (through the use of aligners) to positions that will offer better esthetic and functional outcomes.

Dentists consider many factors before selecting a treatment plan to deal with crowded teeth. For example, the age at which you seek for help can influence the method that is selected for you. Similarly, the extent to which your teeth are crowded also has a bearing on the method selected to treat your condition. It is therefore advisable for you to contact Dental One Care so that Dr. Farhat or any of the other experts can examine you and recommend the best course of action.

Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

February 18, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

6 Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

Cosmetic dentistry refers to the professional dental care that specializes in improving the appearance of your teeth, mouth, and smile. These procedures are usually elective (optional), but some cosmetic dental procedures can improve the function of your dental structures. The range of cosmetic dental procedures varies from the simple to the complex procedures as the examples below.

Composite Bonding

Composite bonding is commonly referred to as just “bonding.” This cosmetic dentistry procedure is recommended for individuals who have suffered decay, damage or discoloration to their teeth. Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI will apply the composite material after drilling out the damaged or decayed sections of your teeth. He will sculpt that composite material so that it looks like a natural tooth. The tooth will then be cured using intense light so that it hardens and performs like your other teeth. Bonding is an inexpensive procedure suitable for people with decayed, cracked, chipped or worn down tooth edges.

Dental Veneers

These are fabricated from medical-grade ceramic materials, such as porcelain. They are customized for each patient and look realistic after the placement process. Dental veneers resolve a variety of cosmetic issues, such as gaps between teeth, chipped teeth, and crooked or damaged teeth. Dr. Farhat uses a strong dental adhesive to attach the veneer to the front surface of the affected tooth. This cosmetic dentistry procedure is relatively expensive.

Teeth Whitening

We asked our friend, Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO, about the most common cosmetic dentistry treatment. Dr. Dhoon says that teeth whitening is by far the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure out there. Your smile can vastly improve just by a simple teeth whitening session. This procedure can be done at home or at the dentist’s office. The cosmetic dentistry procedure should be done once all the plaque and tartar has been removed from your teeth. The bleaching agent used can then act upon the teeth surfaces to get rid of the stains affecting the color of your teeth. The experts at Dental One Care always select the most appropriate teeth whitening products and methods so that you get the results you want. For example, a bride who has a wedding in a few days may require a different approach to another person who doesn’t have an urgent event for which they want whiter teeth.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are the “caps” placed on damaged or worn teeth to preserve their appearance and function. Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI likes to call them a blend of cosmetic and restorative dental work because the crowns will make you look better while easing functionality in the affected teeth. However, these durable cosmetic or restorative devices may not be recommended for teeth in certain parts of the mouth. Such as areas where the bite force exerted is significant since the crowns will be damaged quickly under that pressure.

Dental Implants

This is one of the most expensive cosmetic dentistry procedures. It is an invasive procedure through which a dental implant is placed in the jaw to serve as the root of a missing tooth. After a healing process of up to six months, a crown is placed on this implant so that you can use that restoration in the same way as you would use your natural tooth. The implant fuses with the bone to make the crown very firm. While the implant may last a lifetime, the crown placed on the implant will need to be replaced after ten or more years.

Dental Shaping

This is an exacting cosmetic procedure in which a Sterling Heights dentist files the misshapen tooth using an electric tool. This is so that what is left has a shape that is aesthetically pleasing and matches the rest of your teeth. The main downside of tooth reshaping is that the procedure removes enamel from your teeth. So, this can eventually trigger problems, such as sensitivity, later on.

Visit Dental One Care if you need cosmetic dentistry in Sterling Heights. Dr. Farhat and his team will discuss all the options available and recommend what’s best for you. Did you undergo a cosmetic dentistry procedure elsewhere and issues have developed? No problem, Dental One Care can help!

What Are Dental Veneers?

February 11, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

You may be considering dental veneers if you have some cosmetic or functional defects, such as discoloration or chips, on a tooth or several teeth. Use the following information to get an accurate idea regarding the suitability of veneers for your situation.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin materials placed over the front surface of a tooth or teeth. Porcelain is the most common material used for this purpose because of its close resemblance to natural teeth. Additionally, Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI explains that porcelain is an ideal material because it doesn’t stain as easily as other materials. Stains can also be polished off the porcelain veneers.

Composite resin is also used to make dental veneers. This material stains more easily because it is slightly porous.

When Would You Need Veneers?

You can get veneers if you would like to change the shape, position, and color of your teeth. For example, a dental veneer can be placed on a chipped tooth so that it looks whole again. Your Sterling Heights dentist will help select the right color for your veneers so that your smile is enhanced without giving your teeth an artificial appearance.

The thickness of the dental veneer will vary in accordance with the defect or unique characteristics of the tooth where it is being placed. For instance, the veneer will be thicker where your tooth was chipped.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers have numerous benefits. First, they protect damaged teeth and help them to last longer. They also give you a brighter smile, especially if you have stained or discolored teeth. The veneers installed by Dr. Farhat fix defects in your teeth and leave your teeth looking as natural as possible. Someone looking at you will get a sense that you did something, but they will be unable to tell what exactly you did! Additionally, getting dental veneers is a minimally invasive procedure. The dentists at Dental One Care have frequently worked on clients who hardly require any preparation before veneers are placed.

What Issues Should One Know Before Getting Veneers?

First, dental veneers are an irreversible procedure. It is therefore advisable for you to have a detailed discussion with your Sterling Heights dentist so that you can proceed when you know that there is no turning back.

Secondly, dental veneers can be an expensive treatment. This fact is even more of concern given that many dental insurance plans exclude this procedure from what is covered. Talk to Dr. Farhat or any dentist in Sterling Heights, MI about a payment plan in case you cannot pay in upfront.

What Preparation Is Required Before Veneers Are Placed?

The dentist in Sterling Heights, MI will talk to you about your smile makeover goals. Dr. Farhat will ask you to decide how many teeth you would like to place veneers on. Remember, you can get just one veneer or several.

Next, Dr. Farhat will remove some of the enamel on the teeth so that your teeth will not look too large once the veneers are placed. The amount of enamel removed is minimal, equivalent to the thickness of the veneer. Think of the veneer as being less than half the thickness of your fingernail.

Thereafter, the experts at Dental One Care will take impressions of your teeth and prepare molds that will be used by a lab to fabricate your custom veneers. You can then return to have your veneers placed.

How Long Does the Dental Veneer Process Take?

You may need at least two dental visits to have your dental veneers placed. The first visit is for the initial assessment and preparation. The second visit will be for installing the veneers. A third visit may be recommended in order to assess how well you are coping with the veneers. Some adjustment can be done in case you experience pain or discomfort several days or a week after the veneer was placed. Some patients may need temporary veneers as they wait for the permanent ones while others may not need these temporary restorations. Dr. Farhat will advise you on this matter during your initial assessment.

How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

We asked our friend Dr. Taher Dhoon, a dentist in Greeley, CO, about the longevity of dental veneers. Dr. Dhoon says that one of the benefits of veneers is that with proper care, they can last a long time. Dental veneers are very strong and can last anywhere from 5-20 years depending on the material used to make them and how well you take care of them. This care includes brushing and flossing daily as well as avoiding using your teeth to bite or crush hard substances, such as hard nuts. Ultimately, you should expect to replace your veneers at some point in the future, so think about this possibility before you decide to receive the first set.

Need More Advice?

Get in touch with Dr. Farhat at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, MI. He will answer any queries that you may have about dental veneers and then advise you about any other alternatives that may be suitable for your needs.

Why You Should Consider Getting Dentures

January 30, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

You may have thought about dentures if you are experiencing any of the precursors or early warning signs such as loose teeth. This article discusses what you need to know about dentures. Use this information to make an informed decision or seek further clarification from Dental One Care before you get a set of dentures.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are usually given to individuals who have only lost a few natural teeth. Your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI will anchor the partial dentures to the nearby teeth using metal clasps. The partial dentures will look and work like natural teeth, and they will prevent your remaining natural teeth from shifting towards the gaps left when you lost the natural teeth.

Conventional/Full Dentures

Conventional or full dentures are the most common type of dentures. These dentures replace all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw (or both in some cases). Your Sterling Heights dentist will give you these full dentures after a month or two has elapsed, and your gums have healed after your teeth were extracted.

Dr. Farhat says that many patients have numerous misconceptions about full dentures. For example, some people think that it is inevitable that these dentures will at one time fall out of their mouth as they are talking or eating. However, such incidents only happen when a defect develops. People who have dentures that fit well can never experience such often embarrassing incidents. Besides, modern dentures no longer require the use of adhesives to hold them in place. Instead, Dental One Care fabricates dentures that have inbuilt supports.

Removable Dentures

Partial and full dentures may be removable. This means that you don’t have to keep them in your mouth 24/7. In fact, Dr. Farhat recommends that people with removable dentures should remove them twice each day in order to clean them. Partial dentures can also be soaked in a special cleaning solution overnight while you sleep. This respite allows your gums to rest in case the dentures had a minor defect that caused the gums to become sore. In such a case, see a dentist in Sterling Heights, MI so that the necessary adjustment can be done to your dentures in order to make them fit properly.

Fixed Dentures

Fixed dentures cannot be removed in the same way that removable dentures can be removed. A minor surgical procedure allows your dentist to place implants in your jawbone. Over time, the titanium implants become fused to the bone and keep stimulating it as you eat. This stimulation averts the bone loss that characterizes people who don’t get replacements after losing their natural teeth. Dr. Farhat also explains that fixed dentures are the strongest form of dentures due to this firm anchorage in the jawbone.

However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for this type of dentures. For example, individuals whose bone density is low may require a bone graft before the implants are installed. Other health conditions may even preclude you from having fixed dentures installed, so first talk to your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI before you zero in on this option.

Other Options for Missing Teeth

We asked our friend Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, about treatment options for missing teeth. Dr. Kacos says, “Dentures are one most sought out treatment options out there. People who have dentures are able to restore their smile and go back to normal eating habits. However, they are not meant for everyone. Consult with your Sterling Heights dentist to find out if they work for you.” Don’t in any way limit yourself to dentures if you have lost some or all of your natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Other options, such as dental implants, dental crowns, and dental bridges may be a better option depending on your specific circumstances. Contact us at Dental One Care and set up an appointment so that our experts examine you and advise you on the best course of action to take to restore your smile.

In Office vs. At Home Teeth Whitening

January 22, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

You’ve probably thought about whitening your teeth if they have become yellow or discolored over time. However, it is hard to decide between all the different treat whitening options on the market. This article compares in-office whitening and at-home teeth whitening so that you can decide which teeth whitening treatment is suitable for you.

Teeth Whitening Options

In-office teeth whitening is done at your dentist’s office. Your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI starts by discussing your teeth whitening goals. Dr. Farhat will then design a custom teeth whitening tray for you. This tray will contain a whitening agent and the dentist will use a special light or heat to accelerate the action of the whitening solution. Depending on your teeth whitening goals, you may get your desired shade in one to two visits.

In contrast, at-home teeth whitening kits are in the form of toothpaste or trays/strips. These use a bleaching agent whose concentration is lower than what may be used when you choose to whiten your teeth at Dental One Care. The at-home teeth whitening product comes with easy-to-follow instructions, such as explaining how long you should wear the tray each day. In a few weeks or months, your teeth will whiten to the desired level.

Comparison of Cost

It usually costs more to have your teeth whitened at the dentist’s office. This is partly because of the costlier materials used (higher concentrations of bleaching solutions, for example) and the labor required to conduct the procedure. However, this cost is justified when you consider how quickly you will get the desired results. Not to mention the longevity of your pearly white smile.

At-home teeth whitening is usually more affordable because the products are mass-produced and use a lower concentration of bleaching solutions. That notwithstanding, the tradeoff is that you will take longer to get the desired outcomes.

Comparison of Results

As already mentioned, professional or in-office teeth whitening yields results faster than at-home teeth whitening methods. We asked our friend Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, to compare at-home teeth whitening treatments and in-office teeth whitening treatments. Dr. Kacos says both methods will give the same outcomes, it’s about how quickly you want results. Your teeth are likely to remain white for the same number of years regardless of the method you used to whiten them. The durability of the results will depend on other factors, such as whether you continue to consume foods and drinks, such as coffee, that can stain your teeth again.

Comparison of Side Effects

The fact that at-home teeth whitening kits or products are mass produced means that those products will not be suitable for everyone. For example, Dr. Farhat, a Sterling Heights dentist, reveals that he has encountered patients who complained that their gums felt sore as they wore a teeth whitening tray bought at a drugstore. Such complaints are common because the generic whitening trays often don’t fit the users well. Teeth and gum sensitivity can also result when people use at-home teeth whitening kits.

In-office teeth whitening has a lower chance of triggering side effects because the professional at Dental One Care will first assess you to establish whether you will react to a certain bleaching agent or not. Additionally, you will be under professional observation throughout the teeth whitening procedure. So the possibility of side effects is greatly reduced when you opt to have your teeth whitened by a Sterling Heights dentist.

All in all, both in-office and at-home teeth whitening methods come with their own unique pros and cons. The ultimate decision regarding which option is best for you will depend on your unique circumstances, and the advice given to you by your local Sterling Heights dentist, Dr. Farhat.

How Dental Bridges Benefit Patients

November 26, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

How Dental Bridges Benefit Patients

Not smiling because of a gap or missing tooth in your mouth can really bring your confidence down. The loss of a tooth isn’t just a cosmetic problem. It can also lead to discomfort and other problems.

The most common solution to the loss of a tooth is a dental bridge. Dr. Farhat will help explain exactly what a dental bridge and the how dental bridges benefit patients.

What is a dental bridge?

When you’ve lost a tooth or have a gap between your two teeth a dental bridge is placed to fill that gap. The reason it is called a dental bridge is that it forms a bridge between the gap with a replacement tooth. The bridge looks like a real tooth, so your smile will look good as new.

Overall, there are four types of bridges that can be fitted to your mouth. The dentist determines the best fit based on the situation. The most commonly used dental bridge is fitted with crowns on both sides of the gap.

The second type of dental bridge is the cantilever bridge, which is used when there is only one tooth next to missing tooth. The crown is placed to one side of the tooth to secure the bridge.

The third type of dental bridge is Maryland bridges, which require a metal framework or porcelain to hold the bridge in place. While this works great, the false tooth position isn’t as strong as it is when it’s cemented in. That is why this particular bridge is not recommended for teeth that exert force while chewing.

The last type of dental bridge is known as the implant-supported bridge. These dental bridges are used when multiple teeth are missing. The teeth are held with dental implants that attach securely to your jawbone for stability. A dental implant is placed for each missing tooth.

How does the procedure occur?

The procedure for fitting a dental bridge is not considered a surgery, which means you will not be sedated when you get your dental bridge. But if you are feeling nervous about the getting dental bridges, you can request to have your dentist sedates you. Your dentist will numb the area where the dental bridge will be.

Before the procedure starts, your dentist will take measurements of the gap so there’s a perfect fit. At times, your dentist may put a crown in the patient’s mouth so they don’t feel discomfort while they wait for the bridge to be made. Once it is made, cement is applied and the bridge is placed.

Will I feel pain during the procedure?

Thanks to the local anesthetic, you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure. But the procedure does take a few hours which means that your mouth will have to remain open. Some patients do experience pain or soreness in their jaw but it isn’t anything too painful and can easily be resolved with the help of painkillers.

Recovering from the procedure

Since dental bridges are artificial, there’s not necessarily a set healing time. So as soon as you leave the dentist’s office you can usually eat whatever you want. It may feel a bit weird having the bridge at first but you’ll get used to it over time.

What are the benefits of a dental bridge?

Dr. Ben Kacos agrees that there are numerous benefits to dental bridges.

A Beautiful smile: The dental bridge removes any gaps in your smile, making it as if you never lost a tooth.
Eating habit back to normal: Bridges allows you to eat without any pain, which means you no longer have to worry about feeling pain in your gums or jaw.
Improves speech impediment: After losing a tooth, many people have trouble speaking. A dental bridge will most likely eliminate the speech impediment that occurs after a loss of a tooth.

Losing a tooth isn’t the end of the world. Luckily there are different types of dental bridge options that can help fill the gap. Just make sure you approach reliable dentists in Sterling Heights, MI to have this cosmetic dentistry procedure done. Going to someone you trust will give you ease of mind and more confidence that you will have your perfect smile back.