It is common when patients visit our dental office to ask about solutions to fix stained teeth or fill in gaps between their teeth. Veneers are frequently recommended as the perfect cosmetic solution. Among the cosmetic options available for correcting your smile, veneers are one of the most popular. Here are a few things you should know about veneers and whether they are right for you and your smile.

Veneers: What Are They? 

Veneers are thin covers that are placed over the front surfaces of teeth. Porcelain veneers are typically made from dental porcelain, and they are designed to cover your existing tooth, not replace it. In most cases, people choose veneers for cosmetic reasons to help them achieve the perfect smile.

How do veneers work? 

Veneers are useful for a variety of issues, including fixing broken or chipped teeth, shrinking gaps between teeth, and reducing visible stains on teeth. Our office custom-sizes them to fit your teeth. Since veneers cover your teeth, the structure of your teeth is not affected.

What you need to know about porcelain dental veneers: 

When you have porcelain dental veneers, there is sometimes a slight increase in sensitivity after receiving them, particularly to hot or cold foods and beverages. Typically, veneers are irreversible since a small amount of tooth enamel must be removed in order to place them. Avoiding drinks like wine, coffee, and tea after getting veneers is the best thing to do. These are frequently the sources of staining. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly are still necessary to maintain good oral health. Keep in mind that your teeth are not invincible to staining or decay, so be sure to continue to take good care of them.

The purpose of veneers is to address minor tooth problems such as discoloration, gaps, and misalignment. This is not a substitute for orthodontic treatment, dental bridges, or any other dental work. Porcelain dental veneers offer the perfect cosmetic solution for patients who are not in need of extensive dental treatment and want a less invasive alternative. The procedure can sometimes be time-consuming, but it is actually very simple. You will have a beautiful, natural smile that you can be proud to show off.

If you would like to learn more about how our Vienna VA dentist can help you achieve the smile of your dreams, please contact Vienna Cosmetic & Family Dentistry. We look forward to seeing you during your next visit!

It is important to note that even a healthy mouth contains bacteria. Oral health complications are generally prevented by maintaining a daily oral hygiene routine. However, it is possible to develop an excess of bacteria and fungi, which can result in additional problems. Here is some information you should know about oral thrush and what you can do to prevent it.

What is it?

There is a buildup of the fungus Candida in your mouth that causes oral thrush. The presence of bacteria and fungi in your mouth is natural, but it is important that they do not accumulate. When you have thrush, you may get thick scrapes on your tongue or inner cheek. Alternatively, it may appear as white spots.

Who does it affect?

The risk of developing oral thrush is higher for young children, infants, and the elderly. It is even more imperative that you keep active if you have a weakened immune system or diabetes in order to prevent mouth infections such as oral thrush. Additionally, smokers are more likely to develop oral thrush than non-smokers.

What are the effects of oral thrush?

Symptoms of oral thrush include difficulty swallowing and tasting. As it develops, it may become painful. If you scrape your tongue or cheeks, you may experience slight bleeding if you have oral thrush. There are some who describe the sensation as having cotton in their mouths.

It is possible for thrush to spread. Thrush may move into your lungs, digestive tract, and even your heart if you have a weakened immune system.

What can I do to prevent it?

To prevent oral thrush, we recommend a diligent oral hygiene routine that includes thorough brushing and flossing of your teeth, as well as brushing your tongue. In some cases, we recommend that patients use a tongue scraper to clean their tongues. In the same way that your teeth require daily brushing, your tongue also requires regular cleaning in order to remain healthy and free of bacteria and germs.

According to the American Dental Association, some patients may benefit from using antimicrobial toothpaste or mouthwash. You should consult your doctor to determine which solution is most appropriate for you.

Regular dental examinations cannot be overstated. It is even more critical that you schedule regular visits to our office if you are diabetic. We can work with you to prevent oral health issues like thrush by having your mouth examined by our Vienna dentist.

Please contact Vienna Cosmetic & Family Dentistry if you would like more information about how to keep your mouth healthy or to schedule your next appointment.

A porcelain veneer is a thin layer of porcelain that covers the front of the teeth. If your front teeth have slight chips, cracks, stains, or other imperfections, your dentist may recommend porcelain veneers.

The smile you wear says a lot about your personality. This is why our office can offer you a variety of cosmetic dentistry options to make your smile as attractive as possible.

Read on to learn how veneers can transform your smile.

Embrace your smile with confidence.

Among the benefits of porcelain veneers is that they can restore your confidence in your smile. It is possible to feel self-conscious and unwilling to smile when you have even one imperfection, whether it is one tooth or multiple teeth. You can, however, regain that confidence and smile at the whole world with porcelain veneers.

Restore the front teeth.

Do you need to repair a chipped tooth? You may be a candidate for dental veneers. Veneers are used to conceal cosmetic rather than structural damage. A cracked tooth may require a dental crown if its structural integrity has been compromised.

It is possible to repair minor imperfections with veneers, such as:

• Teeth that are chipped
• Teeth that are misshapen
• Slight gaps between the front teeth
• Stained or discolored teeth

Maintain the structure of the teeth.

In comparison to dental crowns, veneers require less enamel to be removed. As a result, you are able to preserve more of your natural tooth enamel, which can never be replaced once it has been damaged.

Due to the fact that a dental crown covers the entire visible portion of your tooth above the gum line, we have to remove more enamel to make space for the crown. Veneers require only a thin layer of enamel to be removed from the front of the teeth during the procedure. Due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure, you may not even require anesthesia.

You can enjoy whiter teeth.

A veneer is durable enough to last several years when properly cared for. To maintain good oral health, it is important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Additionally, dental veneers have a greater ability to resist staining than natural tooth enamel.

Maintaining good oral health is easy.

Porcelain veneers should be maintained in the same manner as natural teeth. Keep your teeth clean by brushing twice a day and flossing daily to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, ensure that you schedule your routine dental cleaning and examination every six months.

Are you ready for an appointment?

Our Vienna VA Dentist can assist you in exploring your options for cosmetic dentistry, including porcelain veneers. Contact Vienna Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today to schedule an appointment, and we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

The lack of good oral hygiene can contribute to an increase in tooth decay and cavities among children and adults alike. It is directly related to the need for fillings and oftentimes more expensive treatments such as dental implants, crowns, and bridges.

The importance of preventative dentistry

In addition to adversely affecting your oral health, poor oral hygiene can also contribute to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and recurrent respiratory infections. The prevention of oral disease has a direct correlation with the prevention of serious health complications in the future. An inflammatory condition within the gums, as well as the toxins it releases, can have an adverse effect on the gums and bone, which can then spread to other parts of the body. With the help of our dental office, advanced dental issues can be detected before they occur, and we are able to strengthen, preserve, and improve the function of your teeth.

What is the effect of oral hygiene on your health?

There is a strong correlation between dental diseases and overall health. You may experience deterioration in your general health due to ongoing oral disease. To minimize the need for reconstructive dental procedures and health issues later in life, we recommend biannual oral hygiene appointments.

What causes dental problems? 

A high intake of alcohol, sugar, refined foods, and smoking is associated with dental disease. Sugar is more prevalent in our diets today than ever before, resulting in an increase in tooth decay. In particular, sugar causes decay in young children’s primary teeth, which makes them more susceptible to oral disease as adults.

How Can I Take Care of My Teeth?

Sealants for children and adults

A fissure sealant can protect teeth from tooth decay and reduce the need for replacement of missing teeth or restorations in natural teeth. A dental sealant is a thin, protective coating applied to the teeth in order to prevent dental problems in the future. In spite of the fact that dental sealants are usually recommended for children, adults may also benefit from them.

The best way to maintain good oral hygiene 

It is essential to visit your dentist at least twice a year and have your teeth professionally cleaned in order to prevent tartar build-up and prevent dental disease later in life. A healthy lifestyle includes brushing twice a day, flossing, reducing alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and eating a well-balanced diet. When you take care of yourself, you benefit your overall well-being as well, resulting in strong teeth and a healthy body for a lifetime.

What is preventative dental care?

Preventative dental care begins with learning proper oral hygiene. The importance of maintaining your teeth for a lifetime with minimal intervention cannot be overstated. In addition to reducing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, preventative dental care can help you maintain your natural teeth throughout your life.

It’s never too late or too early to start a good oral hygiene routine. Our Vienna dentist can assist you in establishing good oral hygiene habits that will lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Contact Vienna Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today to schedule an appointment.

We have witnessed a number of changes in the last few years that have turned our world upside down. Human connections have become more difficult due to social distance limitations. When we yearned to connect more with our friends and family, it was the little things that got us through tough times. An innocent smile can create a cascading ripple effect of joy throughout a group of people. We live in a world where smiles are contagious. Even though a smile can make someone feel happy, what does it do for the person who provides it?

Taking a moment to smile at someone in public can have emotional benefits.

Improves mood and reduces stress

When you smile, your facial muscles shift upward, revealing the front of your teeth. It’s hard not to smile when you see someone else smile. When you show your teeth through a smile, there is also magic happening behind the scenes through your emotions. When you smile, you relieve stress and release negative emotions.

When you smile, your brain releases endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. Each of these factors has a direct impact on our stress levels and mood. Try smiling more throughout the day if you are dealing with anxiety or negative emotions. It can improve your mood and reduce stress, even if you have to force it initially. Over time, smiling will help you slowly let go of negative thoughts as your mood improves.

It keeps you upbeat

When you’re having a bad day, positivity is hard to find. By improving your outlook on life, smiling can help disrupt limiting beliefs. Smiling makes it difficult to focus on the negative aspects of things. If you are in the midst of a big life transition, such as a move or job change, try adding a few more smiles to your day. Injecting positivity into these scary or intimidating events will boost your confidence. Is there someone you know who sometimes struggles to stay positive? Make them smile and see what a difference it makes.

Obtain happiness and longevity

Our physical bodies can be negatively affected by emotional stress over time. Have you ever had a migraine caused by stress? Your body reacts physically to emotional stress. When we smile, we feel a jolt of happiness for a moment. We are likely to be happier throughout the day if we smile more often.

Practicing a consistent habit of smiling more can create a relaxed lifestyle for someone. Stress-induced illnesses and injuries are less common in people who experience less stress. By living a happier life, they are likely to live longer.

Make happiness a priority

Life is too short not to enjoy it to the fullest. Show off your healthy teeth and smile to prioritize happiness in your life. By doing this, you can not only feel happier but also spread happiness. Adding more smiles to your day can have multiple emotional benefits. When you get the chance, don’t be afraid to show your vulnerability and smile.

We are here to assist you with all of your oral health needs. Make an appointment with Vienna Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today to ensure that you always have a beautiful smile to show off to others. 

You are likely to hear the word “plaque” when purchasing a toothbrush, toothpaste, or visiting our dental office. Due to plaque buildup, it is extremely important to maintain a daily oral hygiene routine that includes brushing twice a day for at least two minutes, as well as flossing regularly. Find out how plaque can harm your smile and what you can do to prevent it.

Plaque—what is it?

If you haven’t brushed your teeth for a while, you might feel a film-like, sticky buildup. Essentially, it is plaque, which is a layer of bacteria that adheres to your teeth. Plaque cannot be prevented, but brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits can minimize its accumulation.

What does plaque look like?

Although plaque is technically colorless, it gives your teeth the appearance of being “fuzzy.” Due to its sticky nature, plaque may cause some discoloration because it can attract food particles. As plaque hardens and becomes yellow, it is referred to as tartar.

How are plaque and tartar different?

Plaque that remains on your teeth for several days hardens into tartar, which must be removed. When tartar builds up in your mouth, your teeth may appear yellow and smell unpleasant, making it difficult to thoroughly clean your mouth.

The Effects of Plaque on Your Teeth and Mouth

Without regular brushing and flossing, plaque accumulates and multiplies. Leaving plaque untreated can lead to the formation of tartar (also known as calculus). In addition, plaque produces an acid that damages teeth, causing them to decay. Your teeth may become stained if tartar is left untreated. Plaque is the main cause of gingivitis, which results in swollen, red, or bleeding gums. By having regular dental cleanings and examinations, you can ensure that any buildup on your teeth is thoroughly removed.

Here are some steps you can take.

Plaque buildup can be prevented by maintaining a daily brushing routine. It is recommended that you brush twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss once a day at the very least. The formation of plaque is a natural process, and when you visit our office for a complete examination, we work with you to remove any buildup. It is critical to maintain regular visits to our office in order to minimize and manage tartar buildup. Brushing your teeth all the way to the gum line is particularly important because the gum line is prone to plaque build-up. It is important to brush gently, as vigorous brushing will only cause more harm than good, especially to the gums.

We invite you to schedule a visit to our Vienna dentist so our experienced, professional dental team can clean and examine your teeth providing you with the healthy smile you deserve. Contact Vienna Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today.

Are you satisfied with your smile or have you considered changing it? Do you feel ashamed, shy, or extremely confident when you smile at people? If you are ready for a makeover, here is a quick guide to how cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve a beautiful, radiant smile that you can share with anyone, anywhere.

What is the role of a cosmetic dentist?

A healthy, aesthetic smile is achieved through cosmetic dentistry by combining art and science to improve your teeth’s health and alignment. Your appearance can be dramatically improved as a result of this procedure. Having even minor procedures can boost your confidence and self-esteem, resulting in a more positive outlook.

Procedures in Cosmetic Dentistry

In cosmetic dentistry, you can improve the appearance of your smile by undergoing a variety of procedures. Whether you want your teeth whiter, better aligned, or to replace missing teeth, there is a cosmetic procedure for you. Here are some examples:

Smile Makeover

A “smile makeover” is a series of dental procedures that are primarily intended to improve your appearance. The procedures can help patients with healthy but misaligned teeth more aesthetically pleasing, often boosting their confidence.

Teeth Whitening

There are several options for teeth whitening, including professional treatments and over-the-counter solutions. Whitening agents are available in the form of gels or strips. If you are interested in professional teeth whitening, you should consult your dentist to find out which option is best for you. A professional teeth whitening treatment can brighten your smile by up to eight shades with safe but effective whitening solutions.

Veneers

A veneer is a thin shell that covers the front surface of the teeth. Using veneers, you can improve the size, shape, color, or length of your teeth. For a beautiful smile, they will create a custom-made shell that will be permanently bonded to your teeth.

Dental Implants

Replacing missing teeth with dental implants is a viable option. Dental implants are metal posts or frames that are inserted by an experienced dentist under the gums into the jawbone. As soon as the dental implant has been placed, the dentist will make a 3D impression in order to create a crown that will attach to the implant and provide you with a tooth that closely resembles your natural teeth.

Orthodontic treatment

Crooked, misaligned, or clenched teeth can be corrected with orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic appliances are most commonly worn by teenagers, but they can also be worn by adults. By using these appliances, you gradually straighten and align your teeth, resulting in a more attractive smile and a normal bite.

If you are concerned about the appearance of your smile, our dental office can help. With our knowledge and experience, we can help you improve your oral health and create the smile of your dreams. Make an appointment with us today.

If you haven’t been brushing, flossing, or getting your teeth professionally cleaned, you may have gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. The good news is that gingivitis can be reversed with proper oral hygiene practices and a little help from our dental team.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal (gum) disease. There are several symptoms, including red, swollen, and tender gums; sensitivity to heat or cold; gums that bleed easily; and lingering bad breath. Untreated gum disease can progress to periodontitis, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Who gets gingivitis?

Gingivitis is very common. Over half of all adults over the age of 30 suffer from some form of gum disease.

There are several factors that increase the risk of gum disease: 

• males, though researchers are unsure of the reason for this. There may be a hormonal component to this, or that men are more likely to contract related diseases. In addition, men are less likely to go to the dentist.
• poverty-stricken individuals and those with less than a high school education. A number of diseases are associated with these factors.
• smokers, since tobacco weakens the body’s ability to resist infection.

Gingivitis: What Causes It?

Plaque and tartar can accumulate on the teeth without good oral hygiene practices and regular dental cleanings. Bacteria in plaque irritate gum tissues, causing inflammation and infection.

Other risk factors for gingivitis include having crooked teeth that are hard to clean; smoking or chewing tobacco; hormonal changes during pregnancy; and dry mouth. Gum inflammation can also be a side effect of certain medications and be caused by certain medical conditions, including diabetes.

How Is Gingivitis Treated?

A deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing is the first line of treatment for gingivitis and periodontitis. The process of scaling is similar to that of a routine dental cleaning. Scalers are used to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line and in between teeth. Root planing involves cleaning and smoothing out the tooth’s root surfaces to encourage the gum tissue to heal.

A gingivitis treatment plan should also include maintaining daily oral hygiene habits, such as brushing your teeth, flossing, and rinsing your mouth with mouthwash. Please schedule an appointment with our dental office as soon as possible if you notice any signs of gingivitis. Our team will evaluate your condition and assist you in restoring your healthy smile.

We invite you to schedule your routine dental examination and cleaning with our dental office. We provide preventive services to ensure your smile remains healthy for as long as possible. You can always count on our team for the highest level of care and service. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment!