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612 Brighton Ave. Portland, Maine 04102

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What restorative procedures do you offer?

We offer a wide range of restorative procedures, including dental crowns, root canals, orthodontics, cavity removal, and tooth bonding.

Is general anesthesia needed for most restorative procedures?

Most restorative procedures do not need general anesthesia. We take pride in providing our patients with the utmost care and comfort and in doing so, find that patients do very well with local anesthesia.

 

What is the basic procedure for cavity removal?

Cavity removal is done by first removing the decayed section of the tooth, and then filling the cavity in with porcelain or a composite resin.

What is ‘endodontic’ treatment?

It is a technical term for the procedure most people refer to as a ‘root canal’.

What does the term ‘orthodontics’ mean?

Orthodontics is the practice of designing, applying, and adjusting corrective appliances, such as braces, to bring the teeth and jaw into proper alignment.

How many appointments are generally required for restorative dentistry?

A series of appointments may be needed for restorative procedures. This is because they can involve the use of fillings or bonding materials that are custom-made to fit your mouth using dental molds.

Restorative procedures also entail removing decaying dental pulp and filling or bonding the tooth as a first step, before capping or crowning in a later appointment.

If you think you could benefit from the restorative dental procedures we offer, you should contact us today! There’s no better time to improve your smile and improve your life.

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a restoration placed over the entire visible area of a damaged or aesthetically displeasing tooth.

What are dental crowns made of?

There are three types of crowns, each made of a different mix of materials. They can be gold, porcelain, or a mix of porcelain and metal.

What conditions can crowns fix?

Crowns can be used to cover and treat decaying teeth, and teeth that are gapped, chipped, discolored, misshapen, or otherwise damaged.

What are the major differences between the crown types?

There are three different types of crowns that can be used to correct your damaged teeth: metal, porcelain attached to metal, and porcelain. All three types of crowns can repair your teeth, but all-porcelain crowns are the only kind that completely restores both the function and appearance of your teeth.

During your initial consultation, we can examine your teeth and make a recommendation regarding crown type based on your specific needs and desires.

What is the procedure for applying dental crowns?

It’s generally a two step procedure. The first step is to prep the teeth involved and take a mold to send to our ceramist who will make your restoration. After taking the mold, a temporary crown will be made. Once the crown is made by our ceramist , we will get you back and make sure it fits properly then bond the permanent crown in place.

How much do crowns cost?

This will depend on how many crowns you need and what material they are made of. Insurance may cover some of your dental crown costs, and we can help you determine that when you come in for your initial consultation.

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth and think dental crowns might be a good solution, contact Brighton Dental Associates today. There’s no better time to improve your smile and your life!

What is dental bonding material made of?

It is made of a resin that can be matched in color to your natural teeth.

What conditions can dental bonding fix?

It can cosmetically fix teeth that are decayed, chipped, cracked, gapped, too short, or misshaped.

What is bonding best suited for?

It is best suited for small cosmetic changes, and to increase the bite pressure of front teeth.

Do bonded teeth require special maintenance?

No. You just need to keep up with good hygiene practices such as seeing a dentist for regular cleanings and brushing and flossing regularly.

How long does dental bonding generally last?

Depending on the amount of tooth bonding applied, and how well you take care of it, dental bonding can last anywhere from three to 10 years.

Is bonding covered by insurance?

This depends on your specific insurance, but it may be fully or partially covered. If it isn’t covered by insurance, our team will work with you to find a financing option that fits your budget.

f you are ready to experience the natural beauty of a healthy smile, contact Brighton Dental AssociatesJ today.

How much does dental bonding cost?

The cost of tooth bonding depends on the amount of work needed. When you come in for your free cosmetic consultation, we can give you an estimate.

What are dental implants made of?

They are made of titanium, and the bone cells are able to grow and fuse to them.

What types of teeth can be replaced using dental implants?

They can be used to replace any of your natural teeth, whether it is one or several that are missing.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

They are not only aesthetically pleasing, they:

Replace the tooth and fill the hole the tooth root occupied

Stimulate the bone and stop bone loss

Prevent the necessity of having other teeth cut down to build bridges or crowns

Are bio-compatible

What kinds of dental implants are there?

The most common are ‘root form’ implants that are screwed into your jawbone. There are also ‘plate form’ implants that sit directly on top of the jaw. If the jawbone is too short, narrow, or deteriorated for these types of implants, a subperiosteal implant, or jawbone implant can be used.

How long do dental implants last?

This will depend on the specific placement and design of the implant, the physiology of your mouth, gums and jaw, and how well you maintain them. Some implants have lasted up to thirty years.

How old do you have to be to consider dental implants?

Patients need all of their permanent teeth to have come in before implants can be used.

If you think dental implants can improve your smile and your life, contact us today to schedule your free cosmetic consultation.

Why should I replace old fillings that can’t be seen when I smile?

Amalgam fillings are certainly very visible because of being such a different color and texture from tooth enamel. Tooth-colored composite fillings blend in much better. But appearance isn’t the only reason to replace them. As they age, they tend to shrink. They aren’t bonded to the tooth they fill, but just packed in tightly. So if they shrink enough, they can loosen and sometimes fall out. They also expand with heat, which can slowly weaken the tooth.

Has it been proved that mercury in fillings are harmful?

No, it’s controversial and still being debated. The FDA stated in September, 2006 that it stands by its previous decision that mercury in dental fillings isn’t harmful unless you’re allergic to mercury. But several consumer groups dispute this conclusion.

What are amalgam fillings made of?

They’re a mix of silver, copper, tin and mercury, with mercury making up about 50% of their weight. That doesn’t mean they’re 50% mercury though, because mercury is heavy.

How can mercury in your filling hurt the rest of you?

As we continue on with our daily chewing, teeth brushing, and perhaps teeth grinding, the mercury in the filling very slowly gives off mercury vapor, which is absorbed by our soft mouth tissue and builds up in the body.

Many studies have been done worldwide to discover where in the body it resides, and have found it in the brain, adrenal glands, and breast milk, to give just a few examples. Some studies have connected it with diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis.

Despite the many studies, agreement hasn’t yet been established as to exactly how mercury from fillings does hurt us, or even whether in fact it does.

What can fillings be made of besides amalgam?

They can be made of dental bonding material, which comes in a number of tooth shades, and is like putty in consistency.

What advantages do white fillings have besides absence of mercury?

They have many advantages. Amalgam fillings are simply packed into the cavity and therefore need the right shape cavity to hold them in, which means more healthy tooth tissue must be removed. White fillings are bonded to the tooth, holding it together and thus strengthening it.

Very tiny cavities can be given a white filling, as it flows into the cavity, rather than being packed into it. In some such cases, no anesthetic is needed.

The dental composite used for white fillings insulates the tooth from extreme temperature changes.

If you would like to replace the fillings you currently have for aesthetic or health-related reasons, call Brighton Dental Associates today. Your initial cosmetic consultation is always free, so there’s no better time to start experiencing the beauty of a healthy smile!

What is does TMJ stand for?

It is acronym for the “temporomandibular joint”.

Where is the temporomandibular joint located?

It is located directly in front of the ear and consists of two bones – the skull bone and the jawbone.

What causes TMJ dysfunction?

If your bite is not balanced, your jaw muscles can remain strained even in the relaxed position. Due to this, pain and other symptoms can develop. When this happens, it is known as TMJ

What are the symptoms of TMJ?

There are many different symptoms, including headaches, facial pain, neck and shoulder pain, ringing in the ears, jaw popping, and dizziness. For a full list of symptoms, please go to our TMJ Symptoms page.

How can TMJ be diagnosed?

We can perform a digital CAT scan of your head to determine how your bite, jawbone, and its associated muscles are lining up. Using this information, he can tell you if you have TMJ and begin your treatment. He can also use special computerized diagnostic equipment to determine the health and comfort of your jaw muscles.

How can TMJ be treated?

Once a healthy resting position for your jaw and bite has been established, an orthotic (bite positioner) can be worn to allow your jaw to rest in that position. After using the orthodic long enough to cure your symptoms, permanent dental work can be done so that you don’t need the orthotic any longer.

For temporary pain relief during this process, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy can also be performed.

If you think you are suffering from TMJ, you should contact Brighton Dental Associates today. As a leading expert in the field, we can conclusively diagnose your condition and begin relieving you of your symptoms.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is essentially a set of dental procedures designed to enhance a person’s smile. These procedures need to be performed by a cosmetic dentist who has undergone special training for each procedure he or she offers.

What conditions can cosmetic dentistry fix?

It can fix a wide variety of conditions, including chips, gaps, tooth discoloration, missing teeth, unsightly metal fillings, and more.

What dental procedures are considered cosmetic?

Any procedure that improves the smile’s appearance, but is not always medically necessary is considered cosmetic. The most common are porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, dental implants, dental bonding and filling upgrades.

What is a ‘smile makeover’?

A smile makeover is when a cosmetic dentist examines your smile and recommends one or multiple cosmetic procedures to make your smile as beautiful and healthy as it can be.

How should I choose a cosmetic dentist?

This is a very important decision considering cosmetic dentistry is a delicate combination of art and science.How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist gives more information on the topic.

Who are the best candidates for cosmetic dentistry?

Anyone who is unhappy about the appearance of his or her smile.

Is cosmetic dentistry covered by dental insurance?

This will ultimately depend on the specific insurance you have. Some procedures that are also restorative in nature may be covered, but many are not because they are considered ‘cosmetic’ only.

Our team can help you figure out what procedures will be covered for you and which will not. For the ones that aren’t covered, we can arrange financing options to fit your budget.

If you’re ready to experience the natural beauty of a healthy smile, contact us today to schedule your free cosmetic consultation!

What procedures are used for a smile makeover?

Any of the procedures we offer can be used, including porcelain veneers, fillings, teeth whitening, dental implants, and bonding.

How do we decide which procedures are needed for a full smile makeover?

This will depend on the specific features of your teeth, gums, and jaw, and which of these features you would like to change. During your free consultation, you and one of our doctors can discuss this, and he/she will make a recommendation based on their many years of experience.

How long will it take to finish a complete smile makeover?

This will depend on how many procedures are incorporated into the process. Many can be done in as little as one to three office visits.

Who are the best candidates for a smile makeover?

Anyone who would like to improve the look of his or her smile.

If I only want to whiten my teeth, do I need to visit a cosmetic dentist?

There are many over-the-counter products available, but professional whitening produces better, longer lasting results.

Are smile makeovers expensive?

They can be, depending on what procedures you decide to have done. During your free consultation, we can discuss the costs of procedures you are considering in more detail.

Does dental insurance cover smile makeovers?

If the procedures are also restorative in nature, insurance may cover some aspects. Generally speaking, cosmetic dental procedures are not covered by insurance because they are not considered medically necessary.

If you’re ready to experience the beauty of a healthy smile, contact us today!

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are very thin, custom-made, ceramic tooth coverings that are bonded to the front of your teeth.

What kind of conditions can porcelain veneers fix?

They can fix a variety of problems including crooked or misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth, worn teeth, discolored teeth, and broken or chipped teeth.

Are they used on the top and bottom teeth?

This will depend on the look of your teeth currently. In many instances they are used to correct problems on your upper and lower teeth. If only your upper or lower teeth need to be covered with veneers, then those veneers will be created to match the look of your natural teeth still visible.

Can the porcelain veneers be stained?

Porcelain veneers are virtually stain proof, so they will not stain like your regular teeth would when exposed to coffee, tea, or cigarette smoking.

Can plaque build up on the surface of porcelain veneers?

If you brush and floss as you normally should, plaque should not build up on the veneers.

How long will they last?

Since they are permanently bonded to your real teeth, porcelain veneers are very strong. If you take good care of them, they should last in excess of ten years.

Do they require special care?

No. You should continue to follow good hygiene practices, brushing and flossing as you normally should.

If you would like to improve the look of your smile with porcelain veneers, contact us today to schedule your free cosmetic consultation!

When were porcelain fillings first developed?

They were first developed in the 1960s, but did not gain the popularity they have now until they were improved enough to become stronger than metal fillings.

What are the advantages of using porcelain fillings over metal fillings?

Mercury, which a liquid metal used in metal fillings, is considered a toxic chemical. That reason alone is enough for most patients to consider an alternative. In addition, the porcelain fillings are stronger, adhere to teeth better, last longer, and are custom made to have the same color and sheen as your natural teeth.

How long to porcelain fillings last?

If you take good care of your teeth, they should last 15 years or longer.

Are they more expensive than metal fillings?

Yes, they do cost more than metal fillings. However, because they last longer, the monetary investment is about equal to metal fillings over the long term.

Who is a good candidate for porcelain fillings?

Good candidates are anyone who has cavities or decayed teeth that need fillings, or those who have metal fillings they would like removed and replaced.

Why are porcelain fillings stronger and more stable than metal?

They are considered stronger and more durable because they strengthen the cured tooth with many layers of silicon dioxide (a mixture of plastic and glass). They also harden much more quickly than metal and are not affected by extreme hot or cold, which can cause the metal fillings be unstable and expand or contract.

Are porcelain fillings covered by insurance?

Many dental plans do cover their use, but this will depend on your specific insurance coverage.

If you would like to improve your smile and your life, contact us today to schedule your free cosmetic consultation!

Who is a good candidate for teeth whitening?

Anyone who is unsatisfied with the color of his or her teeth. However, if you are unhappy with the shape and appearance of your teeth as well, another solution, like porcelain veneers, may be a better solution.

How does teeth whitening work?

The most effective method uses a light-activated bleach to permanently remove deep stains from the enamel of your teeth.

How much whiter can I get my teeth through teeth whitening?

Many patients can whiten their teeth anywhere from six to nine shades lighter. During your free cosmetic consultation, one of or doctors can examine your teeth and make a recommendation.

How long do the results last?

Depending on how well you take care of your teeth, the results can last two to five years, before the teeth need to be touched up or whitened again.

How can I prevent my teeth from becoming discolored again after teeth whitening?

There are four simple rules you can follow to prevent discoloration:

  1. Continue having your teeth cleaned professionally every six months
  2. Avoid beverages with high stain potential (coffee, tea, red wine)
  3. Always brush right away after eating or drinking anything that can stain your teeth
  4. Avoid abrasive toothpastes that wear down the enamel of your teeth and expose the yellow tooth material underneath

 

Does teeth whitening hurt?

Some people experience a temporary sensitivity in their teeth during and immediately following the bleaching process. This can usually be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication, and should go away within hours.

f you would like to learn more about improving your smile through teeth whitening, schedule your free cosmetic consultation today!

How long has laser dentistry been in existence?

The lasers used in laser dentistry have been used for other surgical procedures for over twenty years. Laser dentistry, however, didn’t become prominent until the 1990s.

What are the advantages of using lasers as opposed to other surgical methods?

Aside from extreme precision, lasers eliminate the need for cutting and suturing; they also offer rapid recovery, long-lasting results, the ability to safely treat patients with diabetes, blood disorders and those on blood-thinning medications, and minimal or no scarring.

What dental procedures are lasers used for?

They are most commonly used for gum recontouring and periodontal (gum) therapy.

Is anesthesia needed for periodontal therapy or gum recontouring?

Some anesthetic is usually required during gum recontouring. Initially, anesthesia may be required for periodontal therapy. A local anesthetic can be used if necessary. Antibiotic therapy is used to prevent infection. As therapy progresses, and gums become healthy, the need for anesthesia generally diminishes.

How long does it take to heal from laser dentistry procedures?

Your gums may be slightly sore, but most patients are able to continue with their regular activities soon after these procedures.

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