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Does display whiter teeth the exclusive domain of the rich and famous? Presently almost everyone seeks treatments to make their teeth whiter and brighter. A visit to the local grocery or drugstore helps you find their shelves overflowing with whitening remedies. In addition, beauty magazines, websites, and blogs do not lag, offering numerous DIY teeth whitening therapies or natural treatments which they claim are excellent for whitening teeth.

Unfortunately, the products promoted by their proponents are ineffective and dangerous for many. Furthermore, these remedies are impractical because the optimal solutions to whiten teeth are straightforward and affordable from our Fairfax dentist offering in-office teeth whitening treatments.

With information overflowing on the Internet about teeth whitening, you might find it challenging to know which information is authentic and the popular myths about teeth whitening. Unfortunately, most online information promotes myths by providing misinformation about this excellent therapy, which is safe and effective when performed by dental professionals. If you are unaware of the falsehoods spread about teeth whitening, this article sheds light on the most popular myths to help you understand this treatment’s reality.

5 Common Myths about Teeth Whitening

Here are some common myths about teeth whitening:

1. Whitening Toothpaste Helps Brighten Teeth

When walking down the aisles of supermarkets, you will not find it challenging to notice claims made by manufacturers of whitening toothpaste promoting their brand with claims that the toothpaste delivers instant results but charges higher prices. However, the reality is entirely different because the manufacturers do not disclose that the abrasive ingredients must remain in touch with your teeth for extended periods. Two minutes of brushing with whitening toothpaste aren’t sufficient to deliver results unless you use the product for months or longer.

2. Coconut Oil Pulling Whitens Teeth

Using coconut oil in cooking is widespread globally, besides using it as a moisturizer for the skin, hair, and body. The sales of coconut oil are in the region of $250 million annually, primarily due to the health claims made about this product. As claimed by many, coconut oil is undoubtedly healthy but not for whitening your teeth. Oil pulling, as it is known, is an ancient practice, according to the Ayurveda journal. Unfortunately, no scientific evidence supports the claims that coconut oil whitens teeth.

3. Lemons and Strawberries Help Whiten Teeth

Some proponents claim that crushed strawberries mixed with lemon juice are helpful for whitening teeth. Although the remedy initially seems effective, the acids in these fruits cause enamel erosion, state the dental fraternity. Enamel erosion makes you susceptible to receiving additional treatments from dentists for issues like cavities and other problems.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide with Baking Soda Safely Whiten Teeth

In contrast, hydrogen peroxide and baking soda are not ideal for teeth whitening. Baking soda disturbs the balance of good and harmful mouth bacteria to trigger oral health issues. At the same time, hydrogen peroxide creates free radicals to cause tissue damage.

5. Professional Teeth Whitening Isn’t Cost-Effective

Professional in-office teeth whitening, undoubtedly costs more than kits purchased at local drugstores because there are significant differences between the two. It is a personalized remedy, while store-bought whitening kits are generic. Furthermore, whitening teeth from a dentist delivers instant results without making you wait for weeks or months. The dentist supervises the treatments to ensure you don’t experience sensitivity to your teeth and the mouth’s soft tissues from the ingredients they use to whiten your teeth.

Interesting Facts about Teeth Whitening

Here are some interesting facts about teeth whitening:

1. Over-the-counter Whitening Remedies are not as effective as Treatments

Over-the-counter whitening remedies are not as effective as treatments from the dentist near you merely because manufacturers are not permitted to provide concentrated gels to whiten teeth. In addition, the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in store-bought products is around six percent, while dentists use approximately 34 percent for instant results.

2. Ultraviolet Light isn’t always Necessary

Ultraviolet light isn’t always necessary when whitening teeth because there is no evidence to prove the light improves results.

3. Teeth Whitening Treatments are not for Children

Teeth whitening treatments are not for children who must wait until their teeth have developed and maintain appropriate dental hygiene.

4. Professional Teeth Whitening is Affordable than over-the-counter Remedies

Although professional teeth whitening appears expensive, the supervised therapies from dentists help avoid complications that might develop if the ingredients used during the process contact the soft tissues of your mouth. In addition, when you consider the costs of treating dental pain for any reason, you will likely find professional teeth whitening affordable than over-the-counter and unsubstantiated teeth whitening remedies that do more harm than good to your teeth.

Visit a Teeth Whitening Dentist Near You

If getting your teeth whitened is your goal, we at Drummond Dental Care can help you by providing a personalized treatment explicitly designed for you. Contact our practice today to receive Teeth Whitening in Fairfax, VA, and have a brighter smile as you leave the dentist’s office after your appointment.

Most people usually focus on the teeth’s health and almost always forget that gum health is critical. That’s why gum disease catches most people off-guard. Gum disease affects the gums causing them to recede, leading to loose teeth, exposed tooth roots, and eventually bone loss. However, gum disease isn’t the only cause of gum recession; activities such as vigorous brushing can also lead to gum recession.

Whatever the cause of gum recession or gum damage, you need to seek proper treatment by undergoing gum grafting. Our dentist performs gum grafts to repair gums that have receded. Gum grafting is essential in preventing tooth decay and further gum recession.

But if you are scheduled for a gum graft procedure, you must wonder whether the procedure will be painful. Without further ado, let’s get acquainted with the procedure to explore what happens.

A Sneak Peek Into the Gum Graft Procedure

When your gums recede, you will deal with oral health issues such as tooth and root decay. However, your smile will also be affected since your teeth will appear longer and, at times, crooked. That’s why visiting our cosmetic dentist near you is key to restoring your smile to its former glory.

Our dentist performs the procedure by removing healthy tissue from another area of your mouth and using it to cover the exposed root. Our dentist in Merrifield, VA, uses either of the three types of gum graft:

• Free Gingival Graft – The donor tissue is taken directly from the roof of your mouth (palate). It is the best option if your gums need more support.
• Connective Tissue Graft – Our dentist gets the donor tissue from the right beneath the surface of the palate. A connective tissue graft is the most used gum graft
• Pedicle Graft – This donor tissue comes from the area close to your neighboring tooth. Our dentist considers this option only when there is enough healthy gum tissue.

Pain During the Gum Graft Procedure

Gum grafting is a minor periodontal surgery, and our dentist cannot commence without numbing the area. Therefore, you can expect to receive local anesthesia moments before the procedure to give the anesthetic time to kick in.

Once our dentist confirms that the anesthetic has taken effect, removal of the donor tissue will begin. So, you can expect not to feel pain the whole time our dentist is repairing your gums. However, it doesn’t mean that you might not feel anything. You can expect to feel pressure or movement as our dentist performs the procedure. In the off-chance that you begin to feel pain during the procedure, alert our dentist.

In a nutshell, you will not feel pain during the procedure. But you will experience pain or tingling sensations when the anesthesia starts wearing off, usually after a few hours.

Pain After the Gum Graft Surgery

When you feel pain, soreness or even discomfort after the anesthetic wears off, don’t panic. It’s quite normal since the procedure involved some incisions on various parts of the gingival tissues. But the pain tends to reduce in intensity as each day passes.

Most patients experience mild pain, which can easily be managed using non-prescription painkillers. Very few people experience moderate and severe pain. In any case, pain after the surgery should last about two days.

However, if you undergo periodontal plastic surgery and gum grafting is involved, there is a chance that the pain might be a bit intense.

On the flip side, some patients also experience very minimal pain, and the pain levels significantly drop after the first day.

Remember that the pain level depends on your pain tolerance, the type of medication you use after the procedure, and the type of gum graft your dentist uses.

Pain Management After Gum Graft Surgery

The moment anesthesia wears off; there will be a cascade of feelings that you will experience. Therefore, you will need to manage the pain and decrease the levels of discomfort. You can use non-prescription pain medications. In other cases, our dentist in Merrifield, VA, may prescribe pain medication to help you cope during recovery.

Besides taking pain medication, our dentist near you recommends that you do the following:

• Adhere to all the post-surgery instructions concerning dental hygiene
• Don’t disturb the surgical site by prodding or poking with your tongue, fingers, or other objects
• Eat soft foods like jello, mashed potatoes, and yogurt
• Avoid spicy, acidic, and hard foods that could irritate the area

Visit a Dentist Near You

The bottom line is that the gum graft procedure is painless since it’s performed under local anesthesia. Pain comes after the anesthesia wears off. In any case, if you need to know more about getting gum grafting in Fairfax, VA, contact us at Drummond Dental Care.

Missing teeth affect your dental aesthetics, functionality, and overall oral health, and our dentist in Merrifield, VA, recommends you undergo replacement with a dental bridge. Further, our specialist enlightens you on the treatment options available and ensures you select the ideal solution based on your personalized needs. Dental bridges are suitable since they serve as restorative and cosmetic dental appliances.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a dental prosthetic made of artificial material like porcelain and resin to replace your missing natural tooth. It’s connected to dental crowns for anchorage to your natural teeth. Dental crowns cover your teeth and secure the dental bridge in the right position. If you have missing teeth, our dentist at 22031 may recommend you have dental implants to support teeth bridges.

Are You an ideal Candidate for Dental Bridges?

Our dentist in Merrifield, VA, considers various aspects before determining whether dental bridges suit you. Some of the compelling factors for you to have teeth bridges include:

• Missing one or more teeth
• Robust bone structure and strong teeth that can support dental bridges
• Good oral health without infections or underlying oral health conditions
• Following a proper oral hygiene regimen for preserving dental bridges

You’ll undergo a dental examination beforehand to determine whether dental bridges are ideal for you. The cosmetic dentist near you will evaluate the above factors to affirm dental bridges are suitable for your treatment.

Pros of Dental Bridges

Having selected dental bridges for your treatment, it’s crucial to understand the benefits of dental appliances for your oral health. Some of the advantages of having dental bridges include:

• Bridges are Pocket-friendly- having dental bridges doesn’t require much precision, and the procedure is non-invasive compared to dental implants. Additionally, the cost of having teeth bridges is lower compared to other extensive restorative options.
• No Bone Grafting is Needed- if your tooth has been missing for a long, your jaw bone is likely t have receded. Bone grafting is done with other restorative procedures like dental implants to restore the jaw bone. However, with dental bridges, the process doesn’t require bone grafting.
• Restores Your Dental Aesthetics- the cosmetic dentist may recommend you have dental bridges for replacing missing teeth based on their appealing outlook. Teeth bridges are artificially customized with a resin material that matches your natural tooth shade. Additionally, dental bridges restore your facial and dental structure by replacing your missing tooth and preventing bone deterioration.
• Bridges Overweigh Dentures- our dentist at 22031 may recommend dental bridges over dentures if you have teeth that can support bridges since they anchor your bridges, unlike dentures supported by gum tissues using sealants.
• They are Easy to Fix- unlike dental implants that take several months for healing and longer in case of bone grafting, tooth bridges require a few dental appointments.

Cons of Dental Bridges

Having dental bridges also has demerits as compared to other teeth replacement options, and some of the disadvantages include:

• Conventional bridges require healthy teeth– a portion of your dental crown is shaved down to accommodate dental bridges over dental crowns. However, it poses a risk of more damage to your healthy tooth.
• Some bridges can damage the existing teeth– having Maryland bridges involves cemented metal that can permanently damage your healthy teeth. Additionally, the bridges aren’t robust enough to hold pressure while chewing.
• Implant-supported bridges require more dental appointments– Before having the bridges, the dental implant’s healing must occur and requires a few months. Therefore, the implant-supported bridge is done during the final stages of your treatment.
• Dental Bridges can’t address bone degeneration– The jaw bone begins to deteriorate after missing a tooth. Bridges are placed above the gum line and can’t stimulate the growth of tooth roots r the bone.
• They Aren’t more durable than implants– unlike dental implants that can serve you for a lifetime; bridges need replacement. Also, bridges may inflict damage on the anchor teeth and may not remain in place forever.

Visit a Cosmetic Dentist Near You

At Drummond Dental Care, our specialist replaces missing teeth with dental bridges and implants. We determine the viable option for your treatment based on your dental condition. We’ll examine your dental during your appointment and guide the right treatment option for you. If you need to restore missing teeth using dental bridges, call us or book a consultation at our dental office and undergo treatment today!

When you’re suffering a serious tooth infection, there are two potential treatment choices – a root canal or tooth extraction. Both procedures are well-known ways of treating tooth decay. But everyone has their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages.

Typically, root canal and extraction are terms that get combined when they are two completely different oral surgeries. Here we will offer a short guide to help you find the differences between the two.

What is Root Canal?

Root Canal is called endodontic therapy. Root canal therapy refers to a dental treatment where your dentist or endodontist removes the bacteria infecting the pulp or the nerve chamber of the tooth.

A root canal is a therapy used to repair and save a tooth that has got badly infected or harmed. Common causes of pulp damage and reasons behind root canals include:

• A broken or chipped tooth.
• Dental rotting from a cavity.
• An injury to your tooth.
• Multiple dental methods on one tooth.

A root canal is an effective method for eliminating infection and getting a naturally functioning tooth.

What is a Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extractions are another common way to treat serious tooth decay. Unlike RCT, tooth pulling does not restore the tooth. Instead, the process eliminates it from the mouth. By eliminating the tooth, the decay also gets removed.

In addition to complicated situations, you require surgery. Surgical extractions utilize local and IV sedation as the specialist enters the gum to eliminate the tooth before shutting it down with stitches.

Root Canal v/s Tooth Extraction

While the two techniques will fix your tooth, dental specialists at our dental clinic in Fairfax generally suggest a root canal first. Root canals can be inexpensive, quicker, and simple than the other option. Besides this, abstaining from paying for an implant or managing moving teeth, a root canal is the best approach later.

Advantages of Root Canal V/s an Extraction

When weighing root canal versus tooth extraction, a root canal treatment near you does have some advantages over tooth extraction in the long run:

• One of the main advantages of a root canal is that it keeps the smile just the way it was initially.
• Another benefit is that you will not need to stress over problems such as bone loss.
• Also, root canals are a straightforward procedure that rarely brings about disappointments and are substantially less painful than extraction.
• The dental professional suggests a root canal because it saves the natural tooth. While having one’s tooth extracted may appear like a simple and fast choice, a root canal has advantages over tooth extraction.
• It keeps your teeth as it is, keeping your natural smile. RCT also improves the biting ability.
• Overall, a root canal with advanced dental methods is simple, saves your time, and has a high achievement rate.
• The main disadvantage in choosing an extraction is you need to replace your teeth as soon as possible to prevent any issues related to a missing tooth.
• A root canal is one-way dentists maintain your smile natural and healthy. You’ll continuously function better when you can keep your teeth as natural as possible.

Disadvantages of a Root Canal V/s an Extraction

• Tooth extraction removes the pain and infection as your dentist eliminates your broken tooth.
• The costs of root canal therapy are higher, pulling off a tooth cost is usually less costly and does not need extra dental services after the extraction.

Which One You Should Choose?

When discussing whether you should have a root canal versus extraction, everything comes down to the condition of your tooth. If the general structure of the tooth is still strong, then a root canal is for you. But, if the tooth’s structure is not healthy and flawless, then you should have an extraction.

In the Need of a Root Canal or a Tooth Extraction?

Still need more information about – tooth pulling or RCT? Converse with our team today about the choices that are available for you. Your dental health is our need. Our priority is to guarantee your procedure goes as comfortably and as smoothly as possible. Contact Drummond Dental Care Today or call us to schedule an appointment for tooth extraction or root canal in Fairfax, VA!

What is Teeth Whitening?

It is any procedure that can remove stains from your teeth and improve their general whiteness and brightness. At Drummond Dental Care, we recommend whitening teeth in a dental office under the guidance of a dental expert. Ideally, professional teeth whitening has many benefits to your dental health than any other teeth whitening method. The process will entail directly whitening your teeth’ enamels and breaking down stains to improve the general color of your teeth. Some of the benefits of professional teeth whitening are:

1. It is a quick procedure – you should be in an out of our dentist’s office in about 45 minutes. Our dentist near you only needs to apply whitening products to your teeth and activate them with lasers. The whitening process works quickly to break down stains and whiten teeth.
2. It is effective – teeth whitening in a dental office has incredible results, improving the color of your teeth up to 4 shades whiter than the initial color.
3. It is instant – the result of professional teeth whitening is immediate. You will notice an improvement in your teeth’ appearance when you leave our dentist’s office after professional teeth whitening in Fairfax, VA.
4. It lasts for a long time – the results of professional teeth whitening do not dissipate after a few weeks. They can last up to 6 months or longer before you need retreatment. Most at-home whitening regimens last for at most three months.
5. It is safe – you do not need to worry about toxicity levels of whitening agents when our dentist is in charge of your treatment. Besides, the dental expert will apply some protective liquid to protect your gums from the harsh effects of the bleachers.

7 Simple Ways on How You Can Naturally Whiten Your Teeth

People have come up with many ways for changing the brightness and whiteness of teeth without visiting a dentist. While some can reduce the appearance of stains on teeth, several natural remedies are yet to be tested regarding their effects on the color of teeth. Some seven simple ways you can try to whiten your teeth naturally are:

1. Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Paste

Create a whitening paste with 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide.

2. Coconut Oil Pulling

It involves using a high-quality, organic oil that can remove plaque and tartar from your teeth that are typically responsible for discoloration. Swish a tablespoon of liquid coconut oil in your mouth for a few minutes before spitting. Ensure you do not swallow the oil as it has toxins that might harm your health.

3. Whitening Toothpaste

As you brush your teeth twice every day, use whitening toothpaste to improve your teeth’ color. Better yet, ensure you brush your teeth after every meal.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

It has some whitening effects on teeth when used appropriately. Mix 6 ounces of water with 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and swish in your mouth for 30 minutes. Ensure you brush and rinse your teeth afterward.

5. Drink a Lot of Water

Water washes down any food residues and pigments that may remain on teeth after eating and drinking pigmented foods. Besides, water also neutralizes acidity in the mouth, eroding teeth’ enamels and causing yellowing.

6. Eat Fruits and Vegetables

If your diet is rich in fruits and vegetables, it will be good for your body and teeth. Incorporate many fruits with high water content like watermelons. The hydrating effects of the water are great for reducing acidity in the mouth. Besides that, crunchy, raw fruits and vegetables can scrape off plaque from your teeth, improving the brightness of teeth.

7. Watch What You Eat

The easiest way to whiten teeth is by preventing stains before they appear. Avoid highly pigmented, acidic, and sugary foods.

Summary

Ultimately, every dental expert will recommend whitening your teeth professionally. If anything, the natural whitening methods will work well after professional teeth whitening. Instead of being the only way to whiten your teeth, they will act as tips for maintaining white teeth. Besides, most natural remedies do not target intrinsic stains on teeth but rather remove surface plaque and discoloration. If you are looking for teeth whitening in Fairfax VA, call or book an appointment with Drummond Dental Care today!

Having cracks, chips, discoloration, fractures, and missing teeth affect your smile and confidence. Fortunately, modern cosmetic dentistry can help. The various procedures included are designed to improve the appearance of your mouth, teeth, gums, and overall smile.

When you visit our cosmetic dentist near you, they will examine your teeth and gum and determine the type of procedure that is ideal for you.

What are the Different Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures?

We offer different cosmetic dental procedures that can improve your smile. Sometimes, our dentist may use one or a combination of treatments to solve the issue. These procedures include:

1. Teeth Bonding

Dental bonding repairs cracks, chips, discoloration, or lengthens the teeth using a resin material. Bonding is one of the most inexpensive, noninvasive, and fast dental procedures. Our dentist will begin the process with an assessment to check the condition of your gums and teeth.

Local anesthesia is not usually used unless you have decay or the crack is near a nerve. Our dentist will condition the teeth to make it easy for the resin material to bond to the teeth. The teeth are bonded, and a special light is used to harden the material.
The resin material is prone to cracks and chips, and you need to care for the teeth. 

2. Teeth Whitening and whitening

The teeth can get discolored because of various factors, like age, medication, lifestyle, and diet. Our cosmetic dentist in Merrifield, VA, will recommend professional teeth whitening because it is more effective. The in-office teeth whitening involves the application of a whitening solution with high amounts of the whitening agent. Our dentist also uses a protective gel on the gums to protect them from bruising. The teeth whitening process takes a couple of minutes, and it is done in several sessions. Sometimes a fluoride treatment or a tooth-sensitive toothpaste is done to protect the teeth from sensitivity.

Our dentist can also give you take-home whitening kits to supplement the in-office treatment and maintain the whitening results.

3. Gum Contouring

Gum contouring is done by reshaping the receding gum line. The treatment involves cutting away or removing excess tissue around the teeth.
Although gum contouring is an elective procedure, there are times when it is necessary. When you have receding gums caused by gum disease, the dentist may perform contouring as part of your gum disease treatment.

Our cosmetic dentist or periodontist performs the in-office procedure in one visit. Our dentist will use a laser or a scalpel to remove excess gum tissue or reshape them.

Our dentist can also correct receding gum by taking gum tissue from the palate and attaching it to the affected area.

The length of the contouring varies depending on the severity of the condition and how much contouring is needed. 

4. Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are wafer-thin, customized tooth-colored shells applied on the teeth to improve the color, shape, size, length, and appearance. The veneers come in either porcelain or composite materials, and they are used to fix discolored, worn-down, cracked, or chipped teeth.

The dental veneer procedure needs dental visits—one for the consultation and the second one for fixing the veneer.
Our dentist will begin the procedure with examination and treatment planning. The teeth are prepared by trimming the enamel to create room for the shells.
Our dentist creates an impression of the reshaped teeth using a mold or 3-D scanner and fixes temporary veneers to protect them.

After two to three weeks, our dentist will replace the temporary ones with permanent shells.

5. Dental Implants and Bridges

Dental implants and bridges are both used to replace missing teeth. The bridges are restorations that use dental crowns to support the false teeth. They are noninvasive, but the adjacent teeth are trimmed out to create a room, and this process is irreversible. Our dentist will use cement to hold the bridges in place and examine the fit.

Teeth implants are screws made from a biocompatible material and are surgically fixed on the jaw to replace the roots of the teeth.

Schedule an Appointment

Call or book an appointment with Drummond Dental Care for more information about cosmetic dentistry in Fairfax, VA and which procedure is ideal for you.

If your dentist tells you that you will need gum grafting, you don’t need to worry. When your gums start receding, your dentist near you recommends gum grafting. Gum recession exposes the root of your teeth, increasing the likelihood of tooth decay. It can also make the root sensitive and prone to abrasion. Your Fairfax dentist might refer you to a periodontist for this procedure.

By the looks of it, gum graft surgery is very simple, and all the periodontist does is take healthy tissue from the mouth and attach it to the receding gum. The procedure is very quick, and the patient can usually leave as soon as it is done. However, there are a few things that you need to know about this surgery. Firstly, there are various types of gum grafting. So, without further ado, let’s talk about the procedure in a bit more detail.

What to Expect During the Gum Grafting Procedure?

Once you arrive for your appointment, you will be taken to the procedure room, where our Fairfax dentist will give local anesthesia to numb the area where the procedure will be done. In some cases, general anesthesia can also be given so that patient is totally unconscious during the procedure. There are three different kinds of gum grafts. Now, how the gum grafting proceeds, depends on which kind of graft you are going for. Let’s look at the different types of grafts.

Connective-tissue Graft

The first and most common gum graft that we have is the connective tissue graft. During this procedure, our dentist near Merrifield, VA, will cut a flap of skin from the roof of the mouth or palate. Then tissue from under the flap is removed and stitched to the gum tissue that is surrounding the exposed root. Once the graft is placed, the flap is stitched back down.

Pedicle Graft

The next graft is known as a pedicle graft. During this procedure, tissue is not taken from the palate. Instead, it is collected from the gum around the tooth that needs to be repaired. This flap, known as a pedicle, is only partially cut so that one edge remains intact and attached. The gum is then pulled over the exposed root and sewn into place, covering the root. However, there is a catch with this procedure. It can only be performed on patients with sufficient gum tissue near the exposed tooth root.

Free Gingival Grafts

Lastly, we have the free gingival graft. Like a connective-tissue graft, the tissue is extracted from the roof of the mouth during this procedure. However, instead of making a flap and removing tissue from its underside, the tissue is directly removed from the mouth’s roof. It is then attached to the gum area that has to be treated. This method is mostly used for people with thin gums and who need extra tissue to enlarge their gums.

The Recovery Process after Gum Grafting Surgery

Once the gum grafting procedure is over, you will be allowed to go home. However, if the dentist has given you some kind of sedative for the procedure, you will be in no position to drive home, and you will need help to go home. The dentist will give you specific instructions on how to take care of your gums. After the surgery, it is important that you don’t floss or brush the repaired gum line because that may cause damage and hinder the healing process.

You will also be asked to rinse your mouth using a special product to control plaque. Aside from that, you might have to take antibiotics for a couple of days to reduce the risk of infection. For the first couple of weeks after the procedure, patients are asked to eat cool and soft foods such as ice cream, vegetables, cottage cheese, yogurt, Jell-O, eggs, and pasta.

As for the amount of pain after the procedure is concerned; it depends on the type of gum graft that the periodontist performed. If no tissue is removed from the roof of the mouth, you should have little to no discomfort. Otherwise, there will be some pain.

Looking for gum grafting in Fairfax, VA? You can call or book an appointment with Drummond Dental Care today!

Having discolored, chipped, or broken teeth make it more difficult to have a fuller smile. This is not the case anymore. With dental veneers, you can be able to smile once again as the thin tooth-colored shells are installed at the front of your teeth, improving the appearance of your teeth.

Smaller than average teeth can also be made to appear bigger and more appealing with the attachment of these dental veneers. Let us look at the various types of dental veneers, the procedure of getting them fixed, and some of their benefits.

Types of Dental Veneers

The common types of dental veneers are listed below:

Porcelain Veneers

The most common substance used to make dental veneers is porcelain and composite resin. Ceramic materials which are stain-resistant are used to make porcelain veneers. Before your dentist in Merrifield, VA can attach the porcelain veneers; they will have to shape and color the remaining tooth structure by 0.5-mm or greater. After doing so, the natural tooth is replaced with a bonding agent and a porcelain shell.

Composite Veneers

An alternative to porcelain veneers is composite ones. The material used to make tooth-colored cavity fillings is composite veneers. They are an alternative to porcelain veneers as they are slightly cheaper. You can have this type of dental veneer fixed within the same day. The longevity of composite veneers is between five to seven years.

Palatal Veneers

Another type of dental veneer is palatal veneers. They are used to restore the front teeth. Palatal veneers are used to prevent dental erosion and deep biting.

Lumineers

Lumineers are translucent types of veneers that recreate the shape and color of your natural tooth enamel.

The Procedure of Getting Dental Veneers

After our Saturday Dentist takes an impression of your teeth, it takes between a week or two before the dentist can attach them to your teeth. Once your dental veneers are ready, the dentist will look at the shape, color, and how the veneers fit in your teeth.

Next, the dentist will use a grinding tool to make a rough texture on each tooth where the veneer will be attached. The veneer will attach to the tooth more easily due to this. The veneer is then attached to the tooth using dental cement by your dentist.

What are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?

Here are the advantages of getting dental veneers:

• The main benefit of dental veneers is the improved appearance of your teeth. When your Saturday dentist attaches veneers to the front of your teeth, you have a fuller smile as all your teeth appear equal in size and shape. This means that dental veneers give a natural appearance to teeth.
• Another benefit of having dental veneers is that they are stain-resistant, and this means that your teeth are protected from sticky foods and juices that lead to teeth discoloration.
• Compared to other dental restoration treatments, getting dental veneers is less invasive. Patients require little to no anesthetic for this treatment, and the effects are instantly noticeable when the veneers are bonded in place.
• Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant and decay-resistant. This makes them better than real teeth. This is because they are non-porous and therefore can resist stains and cavities as compared to the natural tooth’s porous enamel. Therefore there is the entry of germs and bacteria.
• It is also important to note that dental veneers are durable with minimal care. The same way you care for your natural teeth is how you should care for your veneers. For example, brushing your teeth and regular flossing, accompanied by regular checkups, will ensure your veneers last for ten to fifteen years.
• If you have reduced enamel due to over brushing and overconsumption of acidic foods, veneers are suitable for enamel loss. There is no rejuvenation of worn-out enamel, but veneers are a long-lasting, visually beautiful alternative to the enamel.

Conclusion

Patients who have worked with Drummond Dental Care consider dental veneers to be a valuable investment. This is because the dental veneers are used to achieve vital goals, ranging from enamel replacement teeth whitening to improving your smile.

Even though veneers are way more expensive than some other cosmetic dental procedures available today, people believe it is a worthy investment. The majority of patients report an increase in self-confidence due to getting dental veneers, which is invaluable.

Looking to get dental veneers in Merrifield, VA, you can call or book your appointment with Drummond Dental Care today!

What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are popular tooth restoration solutions to replace missing teeth. Whether you have missing teeth due to extraction, severe decay, or structural damage, dental bridges help bridge the gap left by your missing teeth. Your natural teeth on either side of the gap function as anchors, while the edentulous area in the middle is filled with an artificial tooth. After placement, dental bridges appear and feel natural.

If you think you are a candidate for dental bridges and visit the dentist in Fairfax to replace your missing teeth, the dentist examines the area where the dental bridge placement is needed. Depending on the location of the missing tooth, dental bridges may or may not be ideal. The natural teeth beside the edentulous Gap also need evaluation to ensure they are durable and support dental prosthetics. The underlying structures are also evaluated by dental x-rays or CBCT scans.

If your dentist determines you are suitable for dental bridges, the next step is to determine which type of dental bridge best suits your needs. Four types of dental bridges are currently available, offering different options depending on specific needs. Mentioned below are the four types of dental bridges for your reference.

Types of Dental Bridges

Below are the main types of dental bridges:

Traditional Dental Bridges

Traditional dental bridges are the most common, with one dental crown adhered to the natural teeth on both sides and an artificial tooth in between. The dental crowns function as anchors while the artificial tooth bridges the gap. The primary benefit of traditional bridges is their strength. However, they require compromising the structure of the two adjacent teeth to accommodate the dental crowns.

Cantilever Dental Bridge

Cantilever dental bridges differ from traditional bridges and require only one anchor tooth beside the missing tooth gap. They aren’t as popular as conventional bridges and are often ideal in the front portion of your mouth. If you have lost back teeth, cantilever bridges are not suitable because of the higher biting pressures. However, if your dentist can place cantilever bridges in the back of your mouth, it helps save time and money.

Maryland Bonded Bridges

Maryland bonded Bridges use the same structure as traditional bridges. However, instead of anchoring the bridge to dental crowns, Maryland bridges use porcelain or a metal framework. The framework eliminates the need to modify the structure of the natural teeth making these bridges a more conservative and affordable option than traditional bridges. Unfortunately, the strength of the adhesive and metal framework causes tooth discoloration.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported Bridges also use a similar structure to traditional bridges except for being anchored with dental implants. Implant-supported bridges do not require neighboring teeth and help span large gaps if you have multiple teeth missing. Dental implants are also recognized for their strength, durability, and ability to restore standard functionality. Unfortunately, implant-supported Bridges need invasive placement and a lengthy recovery period.

The four types of dental bridges offer you a variety of restoration options. Traditional and Maryland bridges help in situations where you have teeth on either side of the gap. Cantilever bridges help if you have merely one tooth on one side of the opening. Finally, implant-supported Bridges are helpful when you have multiple missing teeth or don’t have healthy natural teeth adjacent to the gap.

Dental bridges in Fairfax, VA, undoubtedly have their pros and cons. However, the dentists at the facility can advise you which dental bridge best suits your specific situation. Selecting the optimal dental bridge for you helps improve your oral health besides your appearance.

Why Consider Replacing Missing Teeth?

Whether you have a single or several missing teeth getting replacements for them becomes an essential requirement. Missing teeth don’t just affect your smile but also affect your eating and chewing to leave you malnourished besides causing other problems.

The remaining teeth in your mouth gradually begin shifting towards the missing tooth gap to create misalignments in your mouth. As a result, your jawbone starts deteriorating because the missing teeth make your facial features sag to make you appear older. In addition, the edentulous gap becomes a fertile ground for bacteria and food particles to remain trapped and create problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

You can overcome all the issues mentioned by replacing the missing teeth in your mouth as soon as possible using dental bridges. The bridges help restore your mouth functionality and appearance to improve your quality of life.

Conclusion

If you think dental bridges are appropriate for your situation, please visit or book an appointment with Drummond Dental Care to evaluate and receive dental bridges to close the gaps in your mouth.

What is Invisalign Treatment?

Invisalign treatment is an innovative teeth-straightening technique available for both adults and teenagers. The treatment is provided by your dentist, who liaises with Invisalign technicians. Here is more on orthodontic treatment using Invisalign® in Fairfax, VA.

Process of Invisalign Treatment

Below is a rundown of the Invisalign process:

Consultation

The first step for people interested in Invisalign treatment is consulting a dentist. Contact the dentist near you offering the treatment. This dentist will ascertain your suitability for Invisalign. Your ability and willingness to comply with the given instructions are also checked.

Creating a Treatment Plan

The dentist will work with you to create a customized treatment plan. It is based on your needs and dental health goals. First, the dental team takes digital x-rays and an impression of your teeth then sends them to the Invisalign laboratory. At the lab, Invisalign technicians input the information into state-of-the-art computer technology. Then, they determine how your teeth will move towards their proper positions and create a series of suitable trays.

Waiting for Aligners

The aligners take some time to be customized at the Invisalign dental lab. The technicians will consult your dentist about adjustments needed. It may take about a month for your aligners to be custom-made to your specifications.

Wearing the Devices

Once your aligners are ready, your dentist will instruct you on putting them on and their care. Each set is worn for two weeks and then switched for the next one in the series. Your dentist will closely monitor your treatment progress. It ensures that your teeth move according to plan. Then, any changes needing to be made in the course of treatment are made.

Refining your Smile

After wearing your last tray, you may need further adjustments to refine your smile. Our dentist in VA will inspect your teeth to determine if they are as planned. If not, the dentist will get back in touch with Invisalign for refinement trays.

Maintaining the Perfect Smile

Retainers are needed after treatment is completed to help maintain your new smile. The retainers look like the Invisalign trays but are thicker and worn longer.

Invisalign Treatment Cost

The cost of treatment using Invisalign braces is not fixed. It is dependent on factors such as:

The Complexity of Your Treatment

Mild teeth misalignment issues take a shorter time to treat than severe misalignment. Therefore, treating mild cases costs less compared to severe cases. Severe teeth and jaw misalignments need more dental visits and supplies to complete. It translates to higher costs.

Dental Office Location

Where you live determines the cost of treatment. Rent and utilities cost more in cities or big towns. Patients in urban and suburban areas may have to dig deeper into their pockets than those in rural areas.

Aftercare Provided

After complete treatment, teeth may naturally shift to their previous positions. To prevent the change, the dentist will recommend wearing retainers. These retainers have different costs based on the type and duration of wearing them. The cost of adjustments required after treatment also determines the overall cost.

Dentist Expertise and Experience (Invisalign Tiers)

Invisalign recognizes and awards dentists who work with them. A dentist that completes several Invisalign treatments successfully advances into higher tiers. The higher you are, the more discount you get on Invisalign production and design fees. Our Drummond Dental Care dentist passes these savings to you, providing reasonable-priced treatments.

Some other dentists take advantage of their experience and tier levels to increase the treatment cost. A few ones without experience may lower their prices to attract customers. Compare the cost of Invisalign treatment offered by experienced dentists. It will help you choose a dentist in VA that provides the most reasonable cost of treatment.

Invisalign Treatment Aftercare

As pointed out earlier, you must wear Invisalign retainers after completing your treatment. The retainers are made of similar plastic material to the aligners. Yet, some may contain a thin wire on the inside surfaces. They are removable and worn as recommended by the dentist. You should care for the retainers by cleaning them often and taking them off when eating or drinking.

Your new smile may look perfect but is not immune to dental decay, staining or damage. Ensure that you maintain proper oral hygiene. Wear a mouthguard while participating in sports. They protect your teeth from dental trauma. After Invisalign® in Fairfax, VA, the dentist will instruct you on the aftercare.

If you are looking for Invisalign® in Merrifield, VA & Fairfax, VA, you can call or book an appointment with Drummond Dental.