How Do You Replace a Missing Tooth?

Tooth loss is a common problem in America. About 178 million Americans have at least one tooth missing, and 40 million have lost all of their teeth. A missing tooth or teeth can affect a person’s self-confidence and other aspects of his life. Fortunately, there are ways to replace your missing teeth and finally restore that beautiful smile. Below are the best solutions available for you.

Flipper or Temporary Dentures

Temporary dentures are an inexpensive way to replace one or more missing teeth. Its purpose is to fill any gaps, so you are more confident about smiling and talking. It’s easy to get temporary dentures. In fact, you can have temporary dentures fitted right after tooth extraction. Keep in mind though, that they can feel bulky and uncomfortable over time.

These are ideal for people looking for a temporary solution for a missing tooth so they can save up for a more effective and sustainable treatment. With flippers, there is no need for multiple dental visits. You do need to regularly visit your dentist for dental health checkups and professional cleaning services. Also, make sure that you always practice good oral hygiene for the denture to last a little longer. 

Removable Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures help replace one or more of your teeth in the same arch. They have metal clasps that will hold your dentures firmly in your mouth while still making it easy for you to remove them. You can wear a partial denture during the day, but you must remove it at night for thorough cleaning. The best way to clean them is by soaking them in a good cleaning solution.

Partial dentures are a lower-cost alternative to dental implants or fixed bridges. They are also effective at filling gaps so you can smile confidently. Depending on the placement of a partial denture, the metal used to hold it in place may be visible to others when you speak. A partial denture can start to be unstable or uncomfortable after extensive wear. For those who wear partial dentures, Dr. Wilmer highly recommends regular dental visits and thorough checkups. And when your dentures start to affect your speech, it’s time to replace them! While dental adhesives help your dentures stay in place, they are not the long-term solution.

If you want another economical treatment, partial dentures would be one of the best solutions. 

Removable Complete Dentures

Low-cost removable complete dentures rest just on top of your gums, and the procedure is non-invasive. Wearing these dentures can enhance your appearance and improve your smile. 

They can also provide the proper support for the lips and cheeks muscles, helping you restore facial dimensions. Also, it can look natural as the dentist usually would match the color of your new teeth to the color of your real teeth. Removable complete dentures can be adjusted, especially when the shape of your jawbone changes. Getting this treatment is not only affordable but also quick. 

Complete dentures are ideal for those who want a better solution but cannot afford dental implants. However, a few disadvantages include: having to remove these dentures at night for cleaning and avoiding sticky or hard food to prevent broken dentures. Over time, they may also become loose as your jawbone changes shape. When this happens, visit a dentist immediately for adjustment. While complete dentures are a method of addressing tooth loss, they are not a permanent solution. 

Fixed Bridges

An alternative to dental implants is fixed bridges. This solution is ideal when you still have other teeth for support. Unlike dentures, fixed bridges cannot be removed. They stay cemented in your mouth, and the procedure may involve cutting down the teeth. Not everyone is qualified to have fixed bridges. You must have enough teeth that will help support the fixed bridge. If you only have one or two missing teeth, fixed bridges are a better solution than partial removable dentures. 

Fixed bridges will feel like and function like natural teeth. The procedure also does not take longer – just about three weeks – the most – to complete. Good oral hygiene is still required so the fixed bridge lasts longer. While fixed bridges have more longevity than temporary or partial dentures, they do not provide enough vital stimulation to the tooth bone to serve as a permanent solution.

Dental Implants

The best way to replace a missing tooth is through dental implants. Implants are permanent and an excellent solution for your dental health because they are the closest thing to having natural teeth. It will feel like you have real teeth, and no one can ever tell you have dental implants. Implants are highly durable and feel so natural. Moreover, implants prevent jawbone loss. 

Dental implants can be expensive, and it may not be the practical solution for some people. Also, there is surgery involved, and the treatment may last longer. If you can afford it, we would highly recommend this treatment. It may be expensive, but it’s also the most effective solution to your missing tooth.

Do Something About a Missing Tooth in Richmond, VA

Keep in mind that missing teeth will result in bone loss. Over time, it will lead to the shrinking of your jaws and changing the shape of your face. You can avoid this with our help. Our dental solutions can help you keep that perfect smile and restore your self-confidence. Contact us today for more information or book an appointment.

 

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Exploring the Link Between Covid and Poor Oral Health

Very recently, dentistry was flagged as a high-risk profession; however, less than 1% of dentists in the U.S. have contracted COVID-19.  How is that, when during a dental appointment aerosolized respiratory droplets are created? Somehow, dentists seem to have discovered immunity. Here’s how they’re staying safe and keeping you safe, too. 

Don’t Gamble with Your Oral Health

During the pandemic, it’s not only safe, but very important to go to the dentist – for more reasons than one. Poor oral hygiene can have serious ramifications. These consequences spread far beyond bad breath and tooth pain. Bacteria in the mouth can easily enter the bloodstream through something as simple as brushing your teeth and can lead to a serious infection in your heart. It can also be inhaled and cause infection in your lungs. The last thing you need during the COVID-19 pandemic is the development of a condition that puts you in an at-risk category, or worse: a lung infection that collides with the virus.

Lower That Bacterial Load

Gingivitis. Periodontitis. These multi-syllable words are not meant to terrorize us into proper oral care. Instead, they’re inflammatory diseases that alert dentists to the possibility of major health crises waiting to happen, including:

  • 3x increased risk of diabetes
  • 25% increased risk of heart disease
  • 20% increased risk of high blood pressure 

These diseases put you in an at-risk category for contracting COVID-19. While there are many manifestations of COVID-19, certain factors can ramp up the severity of the symptoms you experience. What can turn an initially mild case of COVID into a severe case? A high bacterial load. That’s right. A higher bacterial count in your body and in your bloodstream, introduced by gum disease, can increase the impact of COVID-19 on your body. 

COVID-19 Complications

Inflamed lungs. When it comes to people with conditions that put them in at-risk categories, such as those with asthma, life can be much more challenging during the pandemic.  Complications occur when bacteria in your mouth is inhaled into your lungs, causing a secondary bacterial infection on top of a COVID-19 viral infection and your already at-risk condition. The results can be disastrous. 

Take Care of Your Oral Health

Poor oral hygiene exacerbates pre-existing conditions. This increases your COVID-19 susceptibility and your chances of contracting a secondary infection. Bacteria that are a byproduct of poor dental health can inflame the lungs. Of course, this causes your symptoms to become more severe than they would have been otherwise. So what can you do to prevent this? 

Take Care of Yourself

Overall health starts with what you put in your mouth. Eating healthy and a rigorous hygiene routine is paramount. Staying hydrated is extremely important, too. 

Brush your teeth twice a day. If you’re stuck at home to work or attend online classes, you likely have the ability to brush three times a day. If that’s the case, take advantage of it! And don’t forget to floss daily! Studies have shown that when patients with pneumonia implement a regimented hygiene routine, mortality rates are reduced. If you’ve been slacking on your oral hygiene routine, jump back on the bandwagon right now!

Go the Extra Mile in Oral Hygiene

From dental cleanings to regular X-rays, these ordinary procedures are important. It’s only a matter of time before elective work blossoms into major issues. And if the cost is an issue, remember: when a problem becomes more extensive, it becomes more expensive. Most offices have some type of financial assistance to allow you to get your mouth back to 100% healthy!

Visit a Dentist in Richmond, VA

As we’ve discovered, dentists and COVID are unlikely opponents. Dentists are some of the least-risk groups in America, though. You should feel comfortable going to see your dentist even if you’re high risk. After all, they were wearing masks before it was ‘in’! And making sure your mouth stays it’s healthiest could help save your life.

What’s next? Schedule that appointment and follow through. Follow social distancing and masking procedure guidelines to help protect the people around you. Make sure you’re following the individual protocols set by our office, too. 

We’re ready to serve you with the same compassion, knowledge, and gentle care that you’re used to. By maintaining your oral health, we’re also helping to protect you from COVID-19.

From masks, to hand hygiene, to social distancing, that extra barrier of protection is something that we could all use a little more of these days!

Contact us to schedule your appointment and we’ll get you on the books. We look forward to taking care of you!

 

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Top 10 Dental Problems

Your dental health is far more important than you may think. The condition of your teeth and gums impacts your overall health. Poor oral health contributes to heart disease, stroke, diabetic complications, respiratory complications, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, pre-term birth and low birth weight, and certain cancers such as kidney, pancreatic and blood cancers. Studies show that it also puts you at a higher risk for contraction of COVID-19! In addition, having an attractive smile helps boost your confidence in both social and professional situations, which can lead to new job offers, salary increases, and happier relationships. In the next few paragraphs, we will describe the top 10 dental problems that you may have to deal with, and how you can overcome them so you can live life as the happiest and healthiest version of you!

1. Cavities

Cavities are one of the most common reasons people visit the dentist. Cavities are caused by bacteria that eat healthy tooth structure. They often don’t hurt. However, if they are left untreated, cavities can get larger and affect the nerves, leading to more extensive and more expensive treatment, such as root canals and extractions. Cavities develop for multiple reasons. Genetics, poor oral care (not flossing and brushing), a diet high in sweets and carbohydrates, and dry mouth are among the top reasons decay develops. Dentists typically treat cavities with fillings. To avoid cavities, make sure you see your dentist regularly, brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, avoid letting sugars and carbohydrates sit on your teeth for long periods of time (this includes bread, pasta, Gatorade, milk, and juice), and talk to your dentist about ways to protect your teeth (prescription topical fluoride), ways to combat dry mouth, and ways to decrease the amount of the bad bacteria in your mouth.

2. Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a condition that affects millions of people. Symptoms include bleeding gums though, in the early stages, you may have gum disease without any obvious symptoms. Left untreated, gum disease leads to bone loss, which can then lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease has been associated with an increased risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetic complications, respiratory complications, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, pre-term birth and low birth weight, and certain cancers such as kidney, pancreatic, and blood cancers, and, most recently, contraction of COVID-19. Consistent and good oral hygiene practices can help to prevent gum disease. Once it has progressed, however, it needs to be treated by a dental professional. Periodontal disease will not disappear, but it can be halted and maintained through teamwork – you do your part at home, and your hygienist will do their part on a more frequent interval. This is paramount to keeping the disease under control.

3. Tooth Sensitivity

If you have sensitive teeth, you may experience tooth pain when eating sweets or consuming something very hot or cold. Sensitive teeth can be caused by a multitude of factors such as cavities, root exposure from brushing too hard, or loss of enamel from misaligned teeth. In mild cases, you may be able to correct the issue by using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. If the issue is caused by cavities or misaligned teeth, your dentist may recommend other solutions to resolve the problem and prevent further damage. 

4. Misaligned Teeth

Most people are not blessed with perfectly aligned teeth. Crooked or misaligned teeth are often considered a cosmetic issue as many people are self-conscious about their smile and would prefer to have straighter teeth. However, misaligned teeth can make chewing more difficult, contribute to periodontal disease, and make your teeth more susceptible to injuries, including tooth loss. Aligning teeth is easy to do using Invisalign, and is one of the most important things you should do to keep a healthy mouth.

5. Stained or Yellow Teeth

Aside from misaligned teeth, having stained or yellowing teeth is one of the biggest obstacles to having a perfect smile. Stained teeth can be caused by smoking or regularly drinking beverages such as soda, coffee, tea, or wine. Even certain fruits and vegetables can, over time, discolor the teeth. As almost everyone partakes in some of these foods or beverages, it’s difficult to maintain perfectly white teeth. Daily brushing along with regular professional teeth cleaning is the best way to maintain whiter teeth. Dentists can also professionally whiten teeth to give you a brilliant smile. Be careful about over-the-counter whitening products as overuse can cause problems such as damage to healthy tooth structure, damage to previous dental work, or gum irritation.

6. Oral Cancer

Oral cancer screenings are performed at every six-month hygiene appointment. If you have dentures, it is still important to see your dentist yearly to get an oral cancer screening and check for other tissue issues. Factors that increase your risk for oral cancer include smoking, a history of smoking, and alcohol use. If you have anything abnormal, such as sores that don’t heal, lumps in the mouth or difficulty swallowing to name a few, you need to make an appointment to see your dentist.

7. Bad Breath

Halitosis, better known as bad breath, is a common ailment that can be embarrassing. Strongly flavored foods and spices such as garlic and onions can temporarily cause bad breath. It’s also typical to have sour-tasting breath in the morning before brushing your teeth. However, a more persistent condition is often indicative of an underlying problem such as cavities, gum disease or other dental issues. In some cases, digestive ailments can cause bad breath. Remedies such as mouthwash, gum, and mints can temporarily mask the problem but if you consistently have bad breath you should ask your dentist about it.

8. Canker Sores

Aphthous ulcers, commonly known as canker sores, are small, often painful sores that can occur in various places in the mouth. They may also be present on the tongue. They may be red, white, or yellow in color. Canker sores can have many causes, including allergies, immune disorders, smoking, stress, physical trauma, and reactions to certain medications. You can buy over-the-counter medications that can help to treat them. If you have canker sores that persist for more than a few weeks, or that occur frequently, you should consult with your doctor or dentist. One reason to seek professional help is that cold sores, a more serious and contagious condition caused by the HSV (herpes simplex virus), can be mistaken for canker sores.

9. Cracked or Chipped Teeth

Teeth can crack due to sports injuries, accidents, crooked teeth, old fillings, cavities, or biting into something hard. A chipped tooth can be annoying and unsightly, depending on its location. It can also be painful if the injury exposes a nerve. A dentist can fix a cracked or chipped tooth with a filling or veneer. Large breaks can require crowns and sometimes root canal therapy in addition to the crown. If the tooth is damaged beyond repair, it may need to be removed and replaced with another option, such as an implant.

10. Teeth Grinding and TMJ

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a practice that can cause damage to your teeth over time. If you grind your teeth, it could be due to stress or a misalignment of your teeth. People often grind their teeth while sleeping and don’t know it. If stress or an underlying sleep disorder is present, you may need to make dietary or lifestyle changes. For example, excessive caffeine intake can contribute to insomnia and teeth grinding at night.

Two primary treatments for TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders and bruxism (teeth grinding) include Botox injections and nightguards. Botox injections into the jaw muscles can help alleviate muscle tension and reduce the frequency and intensity of jaw clenching and grinding. Nightguards, on the other hand, are custom-made dental appliances worn during sleep to protect the teeth from grinding and alleviate pressure on the jaw joint. Both treatments offer effective solutions for managing TMJ and bruxism, but the choice between them depends on individual symptoms, severity, and patient preferences. Consulting with a dental professional can help determine the most suitable treatment approach for each patient’s unique needs.

Visit a Dentist in Richmond, VA to Keep Your Dental Health on Track

Your dental health contributes to the status of your overall health and your confidence level. You now know how to overcome the top 10 dental issues so you can live life as the happiest and healthiest version of you!

Book an appointment to get started on your journey to total body health, starting with the mouth.

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Understanding Dental Implants: Cost, Benefits, and More

The idea of implants in your mouth might make you nervous, but dental implants are not as scary as you think! On the contrary, filling gaps in your teeth with a more permanent solution than a bridge or partial denture offers you long-term relief from discomfort, aesthetic issues, chewing problems, poor hygiene, and low self-esteem.

Dr. Sarah Wilmer, DDS has a long history of success with dental implants. For patients who have been considering dental implants but are nervous about the process, we have created this guide to show you how safe and beneficial the procedure can be for you.

Oral Health Benefits of Dental Implants

Losing a tooth does more than leave an unsightly gap in your mouth. It also provides room for the remaining teeth to shift and move. This movement can cause these teeth to become crooked, press against other healthy teeth, and negatively impact your jawbone.

Movement in your mouth due to a missing tooth could also affect your chewing, speech, and strength of your remaining teeth. Receiving a dental implant reduces the risk of future loss of teeth and improves speech, chewing, and oral aesthetics.

Dental Implants Can Boost the Appearance of Your Teeth and Self-Esteem 

While Dr. Wilmer and team believe beauty is found within, we also know that the way we look on the outside can impact the way we feel about ourselves on the inside. Our mouths are the one area that is constantly on display to the world. At home, in business, and in social situations, we speak, laugh, chew, and our teeth are on display. (Yes, even during the pandemic! There are more close-up Zoom meetings that ever!)

Missing a tooth not only creates a less-than-even smile, but it can be detrimental to the way your mouth sits. When there is no tooth to support your lips, you may notice the area in front of your tooth loss beginning to dip (bone loss). A dental implant fills this space, preserves your natural bone, and improves the look of your smile inside and out.

Fixing your smile physically can boost confidence and keep you smiling in all future meetings, social gatherings, and dinner dates. It can even make you look younger!

Improved Comfort with Dental Implants 

Comfort is essential for a happy life, and a missing tooth can be extremely uncomfortable. At first, the crevasse left in your gums could expose the root of an adjacent tooth. When you chew food, particles fall into the gap and rub against the root causing pain and discomfort. You may notice that certain foods with grains and seeds become unbearable to eat, or that foods that are extremely hot or cold become too intense to chew.

A dental implant fills this hole, leaving no space for food particles to rub against the exposed root. It also helps protect your gums from bacteria building up inside of the crevasse, which could lead to an infection if not properly cared for.

Dental Implants Promote Better Oral Hygiene 

Cleaning your teeth becomes difficult and bothersome when there are difficult to reach areas, such as a gap. The food that gets trapped can cause the gums to decay or inflame, causing further pain.

Basic toothbrushes are not designed to get deep inside crevasses left by missing teeth. The best fix for a missing tooth is to fill the hole. Closing this gap makes dental hygiene much more convenient. You will find yourself able to clean your teeth faster and more efficiently without missing anything that could cause problems later.

The Long-Term Investment of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a long-term investment. Unlike some other quick dental fixes, your implant will last you years and years and will never decay. They are easy to care for, requiring regular brushing just like the rest of your teeth. They also hold their color, providing you with an opportunity to brighten your smile and enjoy a full mouth of beautiful sparkling teeth.

How Much Dental Implants Cost

The cost of dental implants can vary based on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the complexity of the procedure, the location of the dental practice, and any additional treatments required, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts. On average, a single dental implant can range from $1,000 to $3,000, not including the cost of abutments, crowns, or other prosthetic components. However, it’s essential to consult with a dental professional for an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. Keep in mind that while the upfront cost of dental implants may seem higher than other tooth replacement options, their long-term durability and benefits often make them a worthwhile investment in oral health and quality of life.

Contact a Dentist in Richmond, VA Today

If you have a missing tooth and find yourself looking at the space in the mirror, wishing you had a full set of teeth to chew, chat, and smile with without concern, we invite you to contact Dr. Wilmer and her team of oral specialists. At the Cosmetic and Laser Dental Spa of Richmond, we want you to feel better, look better and take charge of your health with our cosmetic and functional dentistry services. 

Contact us with any questions you may have or book an appointment and let us help you create not only a beautiful smile but also a healthy one!

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Should You Choose Porcelain Crowns or Veneers for your Smile Makeover?

Your smile is one of the first things that people remember about you. How many times have you heard people say, “She has a great smile!”? You can get that reaction, too! Consider having a smile makeover with porcelain crowns or veneers. In this article, you will learn the following information:

  • What is a crown?
  • What are the benefits of getting a crown?
  • What are porcelain veneers?
  • What are the benefits of getting porcelain veneers?
  • Who can help you make the right decision for your teeth?

Crowns vs Porcelain Veneers

Veneers and crowns both restore your smile and improve the functionality of your teeth. Here’s the difference: Veneers cover just the front of the tooth, while crowns cover your whole tooth. Depending on whether your dental work is primarily for cosmetic purposes or to restore the function of your teeth, one or the other may suit your purposes better. 

  • A veneer consists of a thin layer of porcelain about 1 millimeter (mm) thick that bonds to the front of your tooth.
  • A crown consists of a 2 mm thick porcelain shell fused over your whole tooth. It can also be all-metal or metal overlayed with porcelain, although these are highly unaesthetic and not recommended for health reasons.
  • Both have good success rates and can complete your smile makeover. 

Let’s take a look at what crowns and veneers are and what to consider in making your decision with the help of a board-certified dentist.

Considerations

Whether a veneer or crown works for you depends on your reason for seeking dental care. Common causes for getting a crown or veneers include the following:

  • discolored teeth
  • crooked teeth
  • chipped or broken teeth
  • decayed or weakened teeth
  • cracked teeth

The dentist can match both crowns and veneers to your other teeth, or provide you with a smile that is the color you have always dreamed of.

What Is a Veneer?

Since veneers cover just the front surface of the tooth, they are less invasive than crowns. More of your original tooth is left in this procedure. To prepare the surface, the dentist roughens the outer layer of enamel. The rough surface helps the veneer bond to the tooth. You may need a local anesthetic, depending on the type of veneer used. However, you may remain awake for the visit if you wish.

The dentist forms an impression of the tooth using a digital scanner or a mold. Typically, an outside lab prepares the veneer. In the meantime, you receive a temporary veneer while waiting for the permanent one to arrive. You return to the dentist to have the permanent veneer installed using dental cement cured with ultraviolet light. 

If you grind or clench your teeth, you may need a nightguard to safeguard the veneer.

What Is a Crown?

A crown covers the whole tooth, and more of the tooth structure is removed to properly install it. Crowns help restore tooth functionality when you have a broken tooth, large filling, root canal, or deep cavity that impacts most of the tooth.

During the procedure, the dentist repairs the decayed portion prior to creating the crown. Local anesthetics are normal during the procedure. 

The dentist makes an impression of the tooth using a digital scan or a mold. The scan or mold goes to an outside lab that fabricates the crown. When the permanent crown arrives back at the dental office, you return to replace the temporary crown with the permanent one. Sometimes small adjustments to the crown are needed to ensure that you can bite down properly. 

Which One Should You Choose?

A crown often works best if the tooth has a large filling or is worn and cracked. However, if most of the tooth remains intact, a veneer can cosmetically improve your smile. 

What Is the Cost?

The cost of your crown or veneer varies based on the complexity of the work done, the size of the tooth and what else is going on in your mouth.

If your dental insurer considers the procedure to be primarily cosmetic, they may not pay for it or the cost could exceed your annual limit.

How much you pay for crowns depends on the material used and the time needed to prepare the tooth. You can budget between $1,000 and $3,500 per tooth.

Providing a true estimate requires a consultation so that the doctor can see the condition of the tooth and surrounding area. In general, porcelain and ceramic crowns are the most popular and tend to cost you more than other materials. 

If you need to work out payment, check out our carecredit option or apply when you come in for your consultation!

Get Dental Crowns or Veneers From an Experienced Dentist in Richmond, VA

Founded in 2013, the Cosmetic and Laser Dental Spa of Richmond can help you complete your smile makeover. We focus on whole mouth health to prevent bacteria and plaque from damaging your teeth. Great dental care starts with a great dentist. Make an appointment today to find out if veneers or crowns are better for your oral health. We are a full-service dental office and can help your whole family maintain a healthy, gorgeous smile that others will notice and comment on!

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The Benefits of Invisalign Over at Home Methods

Have you thought about trying to fix your own teeth using at-home methods? 

While at-home methods for straightening your teeth are seemingly harmless and certainly less expensive, DIY orthodontics can be downright dangerous. When it comes to your oral health, working with a professional is extremely important.

If you’ve struggled with oral health problems owing to teeth that aren’t straight, you might consider a number of options. But once you’ve read the benefits of Invisalign, you’re sure to understand why this is one of your best options.

Keep reading to learn more about why the choice between Invisalign and at-home methods should be as clear as glass.

At-Home Straightening Methods

The most well-known do-it-yourself method of straightening your teeth involves taking an impression of your teeth with a putty in your own home and sending it to a company. The company then sends the set of aligners to your home, and the DIY orthodontics begins!

The Consequences of At-Home Methods

The chances of actually affecting the alignment of your teeth with at-home methods are very low. Beyond that, you can cause serious damage. First, a dentist is not present to ensure you are a candidate prior to treatment beginning. For example, if you have severe periodontal disease and try to shift teeth, you could end up losing them. If you are taking a bisphosphonate medication for osteoporosis, you could cause osteonecrosis of the jaw (literally, bone death). Without a professional monitoring your treatment, you could cause irreversible TMJ damage, irreversible bone damage, irreversible tooth damage, and permanent tooth loss.  

Remember that moving your teeth is a biological process. Not only are you moving your teeth, but you’re also involving your bones, which is why the safest way to straighten your teeth is under the supervision of an educated and experienced dentist.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is the clear alternative to metal braces. It is removable, comfortable, and virtually invisible. It is a highly efficient plastic tray that moves teeth predictably in the fastest and safest way possible by applying a gentle but consistent force that maintains its elasticity long after other plastics have lost theirs. A digital scan is used instead of gooey impression material, which is about 4x more accurate than the impression, thereby giving us a better fit and a more predictable end result. 

The Benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign is both cosmetic and contributes to better oral health. It not only straightens teeth to create a more beautiful smile, but better alignment also gives you health advantages that affect your entire body. To learn more about the benefits of Invisalign, keep reading below.

Discretion

Invisible. Many people choose Invisalign because it’s so discreet. Also called “invisible braces,” the plastic they’re made of is completely clear. In most cases, you can’t see the alignment trays while you’re wearing them – meaning your smile isn’t compromised while it’s being fixed!

Removable. In addition, Invisalign is removable. Although you should only remove them to eat, floss, and brush, it’s possible to pop them out when needed, and it makes it easier to care for your mouth!

Comfortability

The alignment trays are less than one millimeter thick and slide comfortably over your teeth so you hardly even notice that they’re there! This is far less invasive than the metal brackets and elastic rubber bands that traditional braces employ.

Rapid Results

Your aligners are typically changed every one to two weeks to keep your teeth moving in the desired direction, and your progress is checked by a professional approximately every two months (this can be done virtually, too!).

If you can stick to the schedule and remember to keep your aligners in as often as they need to be, you’ll likely only need between 10 and 20 aligners to fix your problem. Along with a “supercharge” of the teeth, most of our patients complete their Invisalign treatment within 3-6 months! 

Health Benefits

Unlike home methods that actually compromise your health and can cause potentially irreparable damage, Invisalign is completely safe and FDA-approved. But on top of their safety benefit over at-home methods, they can also bring additional health benefits.

For example, abnormal bites can cause oral health issues like tooth loss, gum infection, cavities, periodontal disease, tooth wear, sensitivity, and bad breath! By fixing a non-ideal bite, Invisalign prevents these oral health issues!

Get Invisalign From an Experienced Dentist in Richmond, VA

At-home methods simply aren’t safe. You should never try to straighten your teeth without the oversight of a dentist. Luckily, Invisalign is a safe and affordable alternative to metal braces, with a multitude of benefits, including comfort, discretion, and rapid results, and can give you better oral and overall health. If you’re looking for a beautiful, healthier smile, contact us with any questions or book an appointment to get started.

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Will Teeth Whitening Work for Me?

Your smile is the first thing people notice about you and it makes a lasting first impression. Studies show that your smile has the biggest impact on the success of your personal and business relationships, more than any other part of your appearance. An attractive smile makes you feel more confident. The more attractive your smile, the more you are noticed, liked and remembered. A confident smile will get you that long-lasting relationship or that promotion that everyone in the office was gunning for. Your teeth and your smile are a reflection of how you feel about yourself and how you take care of yourself.

One of the fastest ways to make a drastic change in a smile that you are unhappy with is to whiten your teeth. In our office, we hear stories about the antibiotics our patients had as an infant that discolored their teeth and of the kids who would make fun of them in school. Many of our patients have been told there was nothing that could be done for such a deep intrinsic stain. So when we are asked, “will teeth whitening work for me?” The answer is YES! Here’s what you need to know about teeth whitening.

Advantages of Professional Teeth Whitening

Fastest Results

DIY whitening kits can slowly remove a top layer of stain, however, they don’t work for many people — especially those with deep tooth discoloration. Following professional teeth whitening at Dr. Wilmer’s office, you’ll notice an immediate and drastic change. Patients often tell us they have tried every DIY kit out there over the years and never noticed much of a change until they whitened their teeth in our office.

The Safest Form of Bleaching

Dentists are trained to whiten teeth properly by creating custom-fitted trays to keep the whitening agent in contact with the teeth and away from the gums and by using products that are safe for your teeth. Some DIY whitening products that are advertised as ‘tooth-whitening’ contain only abrasives that may remove tea, coffee, and tobacco stains, but do not actually “whiten” your teeth, and can actually cause harm by embedding the abrasives into the gum tissue. Other DIY products have a diluted bleaching solution and are mostly ineffective, while others contain chlorine dioxide, which can destroy tooth enamel (the protective outer surface of the tooth).

Gum & Tooth Sensitivity are More Controllable

One of the side effects of DIY teeth whitening is sensitivity. Our KöR whitening system produces little to no sensitivity for a few reasons. Our custom-fit tray prevents the whitening gel from contacting the gum tissue. We do not use a UV light or laser which causes a great amount of sensitivity and, contrary to popular belief, is actually ineffective at whitening the teeth. We use a buffering agent, a desensitizing agent, and revolutionary technology to stabilize the product prior to use. Hence, we have found our KöR Whitening system to be the gentlest and most effective whitening system available!

Kills Periodontal Bacteria

A CDC study showed that 47% of adults just 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease. The number jumps drastically as age increases: 70% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease. Professionally whitening your teeth restores your gum and teeth’s youthful ability to absorb oxygen. The oxygen makes it difficult (if not impossible) for anaerobic bacteria (periodontal bacteria) to survive. It also breaks through the slime barrier of biofilm (plaque) to destroy the bacteria’s cell walls. We recommend that all of our patients with controlled periodontal disease stay on a whitening maintenance schedule to reduce the risk of relapse.

Types of Stains Best to Get Removed Professionally

It is best to have most stains removed professionally (would you trust the $29.99 special you saw on TV to remove that chocolate stain from your wedding dress?). Your teeth are too important to risk harming with ineffective and unsafe products.

Aging

As you age your teeth naturally darken in color. They also begin losing some of their integrity, which adds to the potential for damage with DIY whitening kits. Professional whitening agents help reduce signs of aging in your teeth while protecting them from further breakdown.

Consumption of Certain Foods

Coffee, red meat, carbonated beverages, turmeric, red wine, tea, and chocolate are all delicious but come at a price – they drastically impact tooth color. Fortunately, professional whitening performed by Dr. Wilmer can remove these stains. And with your easy home maintenance, these staining foods will have no effect on the long-term brilliant color of your teeth so you can continue to enjoy the foods you love.

Tobacco Use

For smokers, the stains on your teeth tell a tale about the number of years you’ve been using tobacco. Professional whitening can wash this proof away and hopefully encourage you to halt this bad habit.

Tetracycline Stain

Some medications, such as tetracycline, can cause significant discoloration to your teeth. Prior to KöR Whitening, improving the appearance of these teeth was virtually impossible, short of putting veneers or crowns on all of them. Our whitening system is the ONLY system that has proven to improve this appearance, giving us miraculous results over and over again.

Why Smiling is Important

Teeth WhiteningAside from the obvious (you are happy!), there are many reasons smiling is important.

Longevity

Studies show that those who smile and laugh are more likely to live a long and healthy life. Smiling causes you to relax, thereby boosting your immune system, lowering your blood pressure and heart rate, and acting as a natural pain reliever! Whiter teeth will boost your confidence in your smile and you will be more likely to show it off, increasing your chance of living a longer and healthier life!

Social Life

Stained teeth can be embarrassing, causing some people to avoid social gatherings and even avoid dating. It can also turn off others around you who assume the color of your teeth is a result of your lack of a good oral hygiene routine. A healthy bright smile will encourage you to be more social and engage in all the events you don’t want to miss.

Achieving Financial Goals

Having a bright white smile will make you feel more confident in yourself and in your abilities. It influences the way you present yourself at work and in financial interactions. Employers are searching for that self-confident person who cares about themself and their work. Gorgeous, whiter teeth will drastically increase your chances of success and wealth!

Get Your Teeth Whitened By an Experienced Dentist in Richmond, VA

Interested in learning more about teeth whitening and the way it can improve your life? Go ahead – make that drastic positive change you’ve been waiting for in your social life, love life, and career. Contact Dr. Wilmer today, and let us help you create not only a beautiful smile but also a healthy one!

Book an appointment online to get started with the Cosmetic and Laser Dental Spa of Richmond.

Learn More About Our Teeth Whitening Services
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How Dental Hygiene Affects Overall Health

I get these questions all the time. For a long time, dentistry and general healthcare have been treated as separate entities. I am here to guide you and help you to see how the health of your body relies on good dental hygiene. When dentists and hygienists examine patients, we are able to screen you for key overall health conditions based on your mouth health and refer to a healthcare provider who can help you further.

Common Question About Dental Hygiene and Overall Health

“Brushing my teeth can really make me healthier? How can my teeth affect my body?”

Gum disease is something that affects at least 75% of the general population, but what is gum disease? Most people assume that if they had gum disease it would hurt, but in reality, it’s considered a silent and deadly disease. People often ignore the early signs and symptoms, including bleeding every time you brush, bad breath that won’t go away, red swollen gums, loose teeth, pus between the gums and teeth, and even sores in the mouth. Many of you are probably thinking, “I would notice that!” Sometimes it is subtle… until it’s not, and we have to talk about treatment to stabilize your mouth. What’s more concerning is where else that bacteria can go.

The bacteria that causes gum disease can travel through the bloodstream throughout your body and affect other organs and functions. Blood pumps throughout your entire body and your heart is the engine that runs the car. Your heart is one of the most crucial organs, as it allows oxygen and blood to travel throughout the body and keep you running. The inflammation in the gums in the mouth influences inflammation in the heart and plaque build-up in the heart, which can lead to cardiovascular disease or even a stroke. The best way to avoid complications from gum disease is to treat it and then maintain a stable mouth, in addition to seeing your physician regularly for blood work and dental hygiene check-ups.

Diabetes is something that can also link directly to mouth health and oral bacteria. One of the common issues patients with diabetes have is the inability to heal quickly and well. Therefore, people with diabetes are more likely to develop infections, such as gum disease. Gum disease is considered a complication of diabetes (especially uncontrolled diabetes) and diabetes can be difficult to control when gum disease and infection are present, putting patients at an increased risk for diabetic complications.

There’s no bones about it! Osteoporosis can be linked to oral health too! All jokes aside, we examine the bones in your jaw and how they influence your ability to keep your teeth. Over time osteoporosis can affect the density of the bone in your body, including your jaw bones. If the density of the jaw bones decreases enough, you can end up losing teeth.

So who can gum disease really effect?

Virtually, everyone. If it seems like I have already given you enough incentive to take care of your mouth, take a deep breath, because I’m not done yet!

Men with gum disease are more likely than women to develop gum disease AND certain types of cancers. They are 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancers than men without gum disease.  Gum disease in men can also affect prostate health and cause impotence.

Women, you’re not off the hook either. Gum disease can occur with hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and after menopause, putting women at a higher risk for breast cancer, heart disease (the leading cause for death in women in the U.S.), diabetes, pregnancy complications, and osteoporosis. Women with gum disease have a 3-5 times greater chance of pre-term birth, which often means a low birth weight for the baby. Pregnant women also have a higher risk for cavities, gum disease development, and even development of pregnancy tumors (which are not cancerous). Babies are perfect and wonderful and worth every second of everything we go through to get them… but they sure do a number on the body!

dental hygieneThe saying “you are what you eat,” applies to your mouth as much as the rest of your body. The food and drink you consume directly affect the mouth and, more specifically, the teeth. Eating disorders can significantly affect your oral health. Often times when we do our exams, we see early signs of eating disorders or severe acid reflux wearing away the tooth structure. Bulimia is a condition where someone eats and then vomits up the food. This results in acid from the stomach sitting on the teeth and wearing off the enamel, the hard structure that protects teeth from significant wear and cavities. Anorexia, where someone eats very little, is also destructive. It can deprive the teeth and gums of nutrients they need to stay strong. Our goal as dentists and hygienists is to help guide you on a path to treat these diseases, help prevent the long-term damage, and to repair some of the physical damage that may have already occurred.

Oh yes, there’s more. In addition, people who have gum disease and a history of lung problems can actually aspirate oral bacteria into their lungs and cause infections like pneumonia! There are also links between oral health and Alzheimer’s, dementia, and HIV. Early signs of HIV often manifest in the mouth first, which is one reason why oral cancer screenings are so important. An increase in gum disease bacteria can potentially increase the risk for development of cognitive impairments associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s.

As you can see, there are so many reasons that dental hygiene is important. So now you know – brushing your teeth CAN really make you healthier, because dental health and general health are not separate entities. They have a symbiotic relationship. We don’t treat just your teeth. We treat you as a whole person.

Begin Your Journey to Whole Body Health with a Trusted Dentist in Richmond, VA

At the Cosmetic and Laser Dental Spa of Richmond, we believe in treating your body as a whole. We want to help you fix the root cause of your issues, not just the symptoms. Book an appointment to get started today, or contact us with any other questions you have.

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Dental Hygiene for Kids

Over the years I have had numerous questions regarding dental care for babies, infants, and young children from families in our practice. My goal for every patient is to provide comprehensive dental care at all stages in life. So when I can start addressing questions and concerns at a very young age, I am able to educate both children and parents on how important dental hygiene is and start the entire family on a path to perfect dental health for the rest of their lives!

Common Questions About Dental Hygiene for Children

“When should I bring my child in for their first visit?”

First visits for children are such a crucial time to provide a positive experience and start the habit of good dental hygiene. We support the recommendation from the American Association for Pediatric Dentistry that a baby should come to the dentist for their first visit when the first tooth erupts or when they reach age 1 — whichever comes first. At your child’s first dental visit, we try to keep it easy and fun! A dental visit for a little one should be positive and all smiles (from you too, parents)! Typically, what we will discuss includes current homecare habits regarding toothbrushing, gum stimulation, bottle habits, and pacifier habits, and our recommendations if any habit needs an adjustment. My hygienist and I will examine the outside of your child’s face and inside of their mouth to ensure there is nothing abnormal with their anatomy. We both will also check on the health of the existing gum tissue and teeth (if present). When looking at these areas, we want to see pink healthy gum tissue without any red irritation or bleeding. For teeth, we hope to see shiny, smooth, and clean teeth with good spacing. Every mouth develops differently, so I monitor the growth and development of your child’s mouth at each visit.

“It’s just a baby tooth! He’s going to lose it anyway, can we just pull it out? It would cost less.”

dental hygiene for kidsI hear this weekly! In fact, baby teeth are crucial to the development of the bone structure in the mouth for children as they develop physically, not to mention they hold the place in the bone for adult teeth to develop and erupt. In fact, many don’t know that baby teeth are actually softer and more susceptible to cavities than adult teeth and have been identified as one of the top causes of children missing school, due to dental pain. Children should never have to experience this kind of pain, so regular visits at least every 6 months can help to prevent this with baby teeth!

As your child ages, we hone in on good habits for their growing bodies and mouths. The best habits always start at a young age and, as I have learned as a mom of two, children see everything we do! They will watch you for guidance on their dental homecare habits and mimic them without you even knowing. Brushing twice a day for 2 minutes each time helps to remove any bacteria, sugars, and acids from the tooth surface. This prevents long term damage like tooth pain or loss for baby AND adult teeth! And children actually need you to brush their teeth (or at least double check them) until the age of 10, when their dexterity is capable of doing so themselves. My favorite website resource for parents and kids, with tips, tricks, and fun activities is http://www.2min2x.org/

“Well, I can definitely help them brush well—but do I really need to floss their baby teeth?”

dental hygiene for kidsThe answer is YES! Especially when teeth touch, but in general you want to get children used to cleaning the space between the teeth. This is the most common area for cavities to form, and the easiest way to avoid this is to floss regularly. The wonderful thing about toothbrushes, floss and other dental products is that there are so many options now! Between electric toothbrushes that play music, flavored floss picks shaped like dinosaurs, and waterpiks—there are so many options out there to help your child to become comfortable with something that works for their dental homecare. For many small children, it’s so hard for them to wrap floss around their fingers, which makes the floss picks an AWESOME option for them to use! It’s also great for parents to use so your fingers don’t get bitten (ask me how I know!). There are so many fun colors, flavorings, and animals/shapes; I guarantee you will have fun picking them out together!

From toothbrush to toothpaste, you have probably noticed that there are so many products to choose from! For toothbrushes, we recommend a soft or extra soft toothbrush with a small, oval-shaped toothbrush head; soft will not hurt the gums and a small head can reach all the little places in those tiny mouths. There are even some really neat and fun electric children’s toothbrushes that have stickers and music to make them interactive. With toothpaste, it’s hard to pick something that you feel will clean little teeth well but that they won’t just eat right off of the toothbrush. For toddlers, it is often best to use fluoride-free toothpaste until the child understands and demonstrates the difference between spitting and swallowing. Once this has happened, it’s a good time to transition them to a toothpaste containing fluoride. When looking at how much toothpaste to put on the brush, I recommend a dab of toothpaste no bigger than a grain of rice. Once they have reached the age of understanding the difference between spitting and swallowing, you can transition to a pea-size of toothpaste. Goodness knows if you aren’t careful, there will be toothpaste coating the sink and the bathroom mirror (again, ask me how I know)!

When it comes to food for kids, it can be so hard to balance good nutritious meals with what the kids will actually eat. Every parent has that frustration of getting kids to eat their fruits and veggies! However, my general rule is to have juice and sugary treats with a meal. If your baby or child goes to bed with a bottle or sippy cup, make sure it contains only water. Milk, juice, or soda will coat the teeth in sugar and acid and can cause cavities to form. Regular water drinking, in general, can help to keep moisture in a child’s mouth and rinse off cavity-causing bacteria. Sports and energy drinks are often consumed during sporting events and activities, however they contain high sugar and acid levels. These will coat the teeth and leave them susceptible to bacteria and cavities. It’s good to limit these and encourage water intake instead!

Schedule an Appointment for Your Child With a Kid-Friendly Dentist in Richmond, VA

Needless to say, there is so much to consider when it comes to our children and their dental health. Our primary jobs as parents are to protect them and keep them healthy, and the more you understand about their dental health, the easier it is to do! At the Cosmetic and Laser Dental Spa of Richmond, we pride ourselves in maintaining a comfortable and kid-friendly environment for your child. Book an appointment with us today or contact us for more information. 

 

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Important COVID-19 Update

Important COVID-19 Update

Our practice is actively following the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Virginia Department of Health, and VCU Health Systems regarding the Covid-19 pandemic. We maintain the highest standard for infection control and cleanliness outlined by OSHA and the CDC at all times, and are now taking additional precautionary measures to ensure the safety of our patients, including an increased frequency of disinfecting public spaces and high-touch items (door handles, pens, counter spaces, etc.). Please note that if you have traveled outside of the country within the last 30 days or are experiencing upper respiratory symptoms with or without a fever, we ask that you kindly call us to reschedule your appointment. Your safety is our top priority, and we are committed to taking any necessary measures to support our patients, staff and community.

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