What is Dental Technology?

High-End Dentistry in Florida

When you visit the dentist, you may notice them using certain technologies. These dental technologies can include anything from x-ray machines to CEREC machines. All of the dental technologies we use in-office helps streamline the process of visiting the dentist. 

Types of Dental Technologies

Digital X-rays

If you’ve ever visited a dentist before, you most likely have gotten x-rays taken. Digital x-rays are standard practice at most dental offices. These digital x-rays save time and are safe for any patient. 

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

CBCT scanning allows our team to create images of your teeth, face and neck with just one scan. These images are high-quality and help us gather detailed information to best diagnose every patient. The CBCT machine rotates once around your head while you stand or sit. It is a quick, simple and painless process! 

CEREC

CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic. CEREC creates a state-of-the-art way of reconstructing tooth restorations. For patients who are in need of crowns, CEREC makes it possible to walk out of the office with a new tooth in just one visit! This dental technology has revolutionized ceramic restorations so there is no waiting period preparing the restoration and receiving the final product. 

Intraoral Camera

Intraoral cameras give our team a detailed view of your mouth in pictures and videos. This dental technology is useful for putting specific problem areas on the screen so we can see in greater detail. 

What Dental Technologies are Offered at ESI Dentistry?

At ESI Dentistry, we offer dental technologies to streamline our dental process as much as possible. We use the following technologies in our practice:

If you have any questions about dental technology, or what we use at our practice, please give us a call using the button below. 

Call Our New Port Richey Office Call Our Palm Harbor Office

What Are Dental Implants?

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or secure dentures and other large prostheses. Dental implants consist of an artificial root and a manufactured tooth that can be placed on it.

Why a Dental Implant?

There are several benefits that can make dental implants the best option for replacing missing teeth:

  • Dental implants stabilize bone levels and can prevent bone loss
  • Dental implants provide greater long-term support and functionality
  • Dental implants stabilize dentures
  • Dental implants provide an artificial root system, which keeps the remaining teeth in line
  • Dental implants do NOT require alteration of adjacent teeth.

Are There Different Types of Dental Implants?

Yes. The most common type of dental implant are endosteal implants. Endosteal implants consist of a metal rod installed into the jawbone and a supporting post that secures either a dental crown or a dental bridge.

Another common type of dental implant are All-on-4 implants. These revolutionary systems consist of an entire top or bottom denture that is supported by just four implants. The implants are placed so that replacement teeth remain steady and secure. The advantage of the All-on-4 implants is that they help patients recover faster and reduce the chances of complications.

What Does the Procedure Entail?

First, our dentist will examine the area in your mouth where you’re considering a dental implant. Then, an oral surgeon will need to decide if there are any current teeth that need to be removed and which type of bone graft needs to be done. These procedures will take place first, followed by enough recovery time to heal to ensure an adequate and strong bone is present at the implant site. Then, the dental implant is placed into the bone and a healing cap is placed over the implant. You will need to follow up with regular check-ups after to ensure proper healing and that there is no infection.

Are Dental Implants Right for Me?

If you have loose or missing teeth, or were born without a tooth, dental implants may be right for you. If you’re considering dental implants, give us a call using the buttons below or visit our website at ESI Dentistry – Esthetic Smiles & Implants.

Call Our New Port Richey Office Call Our Palm Harbor Office Learn More About Dental Implants

What to Know Before Getting Dental Veneers

Dental Veneers at ESI Dentistry – Esthetic Smiles & Implants

When it comes to improving your smile, veneers are one of the most effective solutions. They give you a fresh, new look without having to undergo something invasive like cosmetic surgery. These thin shell-like shells are made of porcelain and are attached to the front of teeth. There are many reasons why you might want to get veneers — from having crooked teeth to tooth discoloration, to making your existing teeth look better and more uniform.

Like any type of procedure, there are some things you should know before getting dental veneers. 

What You Can Expect When Getting Veneers

Getting dental veneers is a multi-step process that can take several weeks and a couple of visits to your dentist. 

Your dentist will evaluate your smile, then determine whether you’re a good candidate for veneers and discuss the plan for moving ahead. If you need any fillings or dental implants, these will have to be taken care of first.

Then, your dentist will prep your teeth by shaving a very thin layer of enamel off the front of your teeth. They will then take an impression of your teeth and create temporary veneers that will stay on your teeth until the permanent veneers are finished.  

Once the final porcelain veneers are sculpted, you’ll return to the dentist to have them applied. The temporary veneers are removed and a bonding cement is applied to your teeth. Then, the permanent veneers are carefully installed and you’re ready to dazzle people with your new smile!

Caring for Your Veneers

After your procedure, your mouth and gums will likely be sore for a few days. The discomfort is completely normal and will pass as your mouth heals, but have some Tylenol on hand, just in case. 

You should care for your veneers, just like you would your regular teeth- brush them twice a day and floss regularly. You should stay away from foods that might chip or crack your teeth. The better you take care of your teeth, the longer your veneers will last. 

Most veneers will last 20 years, which, at that point, you’ll need to look into getting a new set due to regular wear and tear. If your veneers are damaged earlier than that, you will probably need to look into fixing them sooner. 

Veneers Aren’t For Everyone

Getting veneers is an investment, so you’ll need to make sure that your finances are in order, or that your insurance will help cover the cost. 

Some other reasons why someone might not be able to get veneers are because they have a habit of teeth grinding, they have a crossbite or underbite, gum disease, poor oral hygiene, or severe tooth crowding. 

If you’re wondering if dental veneers are a good choice for you, talk with your dentist. They’ll walk you through the steps of getting veneers and talk with you about if you’re a good candidate or not. 

Give us a call today using the buttons below and we’ll get an appointment set up to discuss the possibility of you getting veneers!

Call Our New Port Richey Office Call Our Palm Harbor Office Learn More About Dental Veneers at ESI Dentistry - Esthetic Smiles & Implants