Dental Implants

When you are missing one or more teeth, there are a variety of methods to replace them, including removable appliances, fixed bridges and implants. Dr. Scanlon will discuss your options with you and help you decide the method that is best for you.

A Dental Implant is used like an artificial root to support the false tooth or teeth. A custom-made crown is then attached to the implant filling the missing tooth’s space. Dental Implants have advantages over fixed bridges, especially when the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth or teeth are healthy. In order to create a fixed bridge, a dentist must usually place crowns on these adjacent teeth – as they are the support for the replacement tooth or teeth. If these teeth are free from decay and existing restorations, you may prefer to leave them in their natural state, rather than alter them to hold the necessary supporting restorations. Implants replace the missing tooth or teeth while leaving all adjacent teeth unaltered.

Dental implants can involve multiple visits with your dental care professional, including an oral surgeon or periodontist. The specialist will prepare the bone site for implant placement. This process takes between 2-4 months to fully recuperate. A temporary crown will be fitted during the healing period. After the area is healed, an impression is taken of the teeth and gums for permanent crown (artificial tooth). This entire process takes between 6 months to 1-year.

While implants are highly successful, the likelihood of success depends on several factors. The amount of bone available to support the implant, the patient’s health, whether or not the patient smokes and the quality of ongoing home care all effect long-term success. Remember, replacing missing teeth is important to maintaining good dental health. Dr. Scanlon can evaluate the condition of your teeth and discuss whether your oral health would benefit from a Dental Implant.

Professionally Applied Teeth Whitening

Philips Zoom Whitening system is a scientifically advanced teeth whitening procedure applied chairside at your dentist’s office. It’s ideal for anyone looking for immediate results. Years of extensive research and clinical studies confirm that teeth whitening under the supervision of a dental professional is safe.

Almost anyone can benefit from teeth whitening. Of course, there are many reasons for discoloration and not everyone will experience the same results. That’s why it’s important to involve a dental professional. There are many factors that play into what kind of whitening is right for you, and a dental professional will help you get the best results possible.

There is no guarantee with the results but on average we have seen a brightening of 7-9 shades. The lasting effects of teeth whitening vary depending on at-home maintenance and your diet, specifically smoking, wine and coffee usage.

Professionally Prescribed Whitening

Any whitening material dispensed by a dental professional for a patient to use at home either as their main whitening treatment or for maintenance after an in-office whitening is useful as part of an ongoing maintenance program and with potentially excellent results.

Over the Counter

Any whitening material available to purchase for home use without seeing a dental professional, such as those available at drug stores and supermarkets, are not as effective, but do provide limited improvements over a longer period of time.