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Porcelain Veneers

Mar 29, 2023

Porcelain Veneers

Get the perfect smile you deserve – Porcelain veneers for a beautiful, natural look!

Do you dream of having a perfect, Hollywood-worthy smile? Porcelain veneers might be the solution you’ve been looking for. These thin, custom-made shells are designed to cover the front surface of your teeth, transforming the appearance of your smile in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re dealing with stains, chips, gaps, or misshapen teeth, porcelain veneers can help you achieve a flawless, natural-looking smile that boosts your confidence and transforms your entire appearance. With the power of porcelain veneers, you can finally have the smile you’ve always wanted and feel proud to show it off to the world.

young woman with beautiful smile

What are Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment that can transform the appearance of your teeth and give you a bright, beautiful smile. These thin shells are made of porcelain and are custom-designed to fit over the front surface of your teeth, covering imperfections and creating a flawless, natural-looking appearance. Porcelain veneers are a versatile treatment that can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic dental issues, such as stains, chips, gaps, misshapen teeth, and more. They are a popular choice among individuals looking to improve the appearance of their teeth and achieve a more confident, radiant smile. If you’re considering cosmetic dental treatment, porcelain veneers may be the solution you’ve been searching for.

DO PORCELAIN VENEERS HURT?

The process of getting porcelain veneers typically involves minimal discomfort or pain. During the initial consultation, your dentist will evaluate your teeth to determine if porcelain veneers are the right treatment option for you. If you decide to move forward with the treatment, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel, which can cause slight sensitivity or discomfort. However, this is typically a painless process and can be managed with local anesthesia if needed.

Once your teeth are prepared, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental laboratory to create your custom porcelain veneers. While your veneers are being fabricated, your dentist may provide temporary veneers to protect your teeth and improve their appearance. Once your permanent veneers are ready, your dentist will bond them to your teeth using a strong dental adhesive, which can cause some slight pressure or sensitivity during the process.

After the veneers are in place, you may experience some sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures for a few days, but this typically subsides quickly. In general, the discomfort associated with getting porcelain veneers is minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary. If you have any concerns about the process or experience significant discomfort, be sure to discuss them with with us.

HOW LONG DO PORCELAIN VENEERS LAST?

Porcelain veneers are a durable and long-lasting cosmetic dental treatment. With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can last many years and even decades. The lifespan of porcelain veneers can vary depending on factors such as oral hygiene habits, diet, lifestyle, and general wear and tear.

To help prolong the life of your porcelain veneers, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting Blackstone Dental for regular check-ups and cleanings. Avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can also help prevent damage to your veneers. Additionally, wearing a mouthguard if you grind or clench your teeth at night can help protect your veneers from excessive wear.

Regular check-ups and maintenance can help ensure that your veneers remain in good condition and continue to provide you with a beautiful, confident smile for years to come.

porcelain veneers before
porcelain veneers after

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE PORCELAIN VENEERS PROCEDURE?

At Blackstone Dental in Central Falls, treatment with porcelain dental veneers begins with a digital impression of your teeth. This impression allows for custom-made veneers to be created specifically for your affected teeth, ensuring a comfortable and precise fit. Once designed, the veneer is color-tinted to match the surrounding teeth or to your aesthetic preference and attached to the tooth with a durable cement. Depending on the type of veneers chosen, temporary veneers may be provided while waiting for the permanent veneers to be returned from the ceramist.

At Blackstone Dental we our experience and aesthetic sensibilities to design veneers that not only look beautiful but also natural. Porcelain veneers are designed to maintain their color over time, so your teeth can remain bright and vibrant.

Porcelain dental veneers can be an excellent solution for addressing common dental problems and achieving a beautiful, natural-looking smile.

ADDITIONAL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PORCELAIN VENEERS

Will getting porcelain veneers affect my speech?

It may take some time to adjust to the feel of your new veneers, but most people find that their speech returns to normal within a few days to a week.

Can porcelain veneers be used to fix severely crooked or misaligned teeth?

Porcelain veneers can help improve the appearance of slightly crooked teeth, but if your teeth are severely misaligned, your dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment instead.

Can porcelain veneers be used to fix gaps between teeth?

Yes, porcelain veneers can be used to close gaps between teeth and create a more uniform appearance.

Can porcelain veneers be used on back teeth?

Porcelain veneers are typically only used on the front teeth that are visible when you smile. For back teeth, dental crowns or other restorative treatments may be more appropriate.

Can porcelain veneers be removed if I don't like them?

Porcelain veneers are a permanent dental treatment that involves removing a thin layer of enamel from your teeth. While it is possible to remove veneers, it may require additional dental work to restore the tooth’s original appearance.

How do I care for my porcelain veneers?

Caring for porcelain veneers is similar to caring for natural teeth. You should brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Avoid biting hard objects like pens and fingernails, and wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth.

Are porcelain veneers covered by dental insurance?

Most dental insurance plans do not cover cosmetic procedures like porcelain veneers, but it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see what’s covered.

Is there a dentist near me in Central Falls that offers porcelain veneers?

Yes.  At our Central Falls dental office we offer porcelain veneers to patients from Central Falls and the surrounding area.  Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Schedule an Appointment

401-722-4086

Porcelain Crowns

Apr 2, 2023

Porcelain Crowns

Transform your smile with the strength and beauty of porcelain crowns

As you age, your teeth age too. Decay, fillings, trauma or even just normal chewing habits can make your teeth break down over time. A porcelain dental crown or a cap is a cover that is placed over a tooth to protect a weakened tooth from further fracturing or deteriorating. A Porcelain crown could also be used to replace a discolored or badly shaped tooth or protect a tooth that has had a root canal. Lastly, a new porcelain crown is necessary to simply replace an old worn down or defective crown. All porcelain crowns are generally considered the most aesthetic choice since they closely resemble the color and appearance of your teeth. Porcelain continues to improve and in fact, there are newly developed porcelain materials, such as zirconium and empress 2 that can better withstand the forces of chewing.

What is a Porcelain Crown?

Porcelain crowns, also known as ceramic crowns or porcelain teeth, provide a viable solution for individuals with damaged teeth. These crowns are personalized caps that are bonded to the tooth, fitting perfectly over it to restore its original size, strength, and functionality.

Crowns are widely regarded as the gold standard for safeguarding and fortifying teeth that cannot be repaired using fillings or other dental procedures. Porcelain crowns are created using tooth-colored porcelain, which blends seamlessly with the rest of your natural teeth, enhancing not only their strength but also their visual appeal.

Different Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns come in various options, such as ceramic or porcelain crowns, porcelain fused to metal, gold alloys, and base metal alloys.

Of all the options, porcelain or tooth-colored crowns are the most popular due to their natural look and ability to blend seamlessly with your actual teeth. This makes them an excellent choice for front teeth or teeth that are visible when smiling or speaking.

Porcelain or ceramic dental crowns are highly durable and can last for many years. However, like other dental crown restorations, they may eventually require replacement.

Even the most durable porcelain crowns can chip or become damaged, requiring consultation with your dentist for repair or replacement.

dentist explaining

Porcelain Crowns Vs Veneers

Both porcelain crowns and veneers are utilized to enhance the look of your teeth, particularly if your front or visible teeth have discolouration or damage.

Veneers are typically used for aesthetic improvements only as they consist of super-thin porcelain and are bonded solely to the front of the tooth. They do not strengthen the tooth but instead enhance its appearance and shape.

In contrast, porcelain crowns cover the entire tooth and provide protection for damaged teeth while also improving the aesthetics of your smile.

Consulting with our dentist at our Central Falls dental office regarding options for enhancing the health, strength, and appearance of your teeth is always advisable. We can recommend the best approaches to make your teeth the best they can be.

 

Porcelain Crowns On Your Front Teeth

When it comes to porcelain crowns, the most common area for treatment is your front teeth. These teeth are the most visible and can benefit the most from porcelain dental crowns, making a significant and noticeable improvement to your smile.

Damaged or imperfect teeth can not only cause health issues, but also impact your self-confidence and self-image. Having healthy and aesthetically pleasing teeth can make a significant difference in your overall appearance, making you look and feel younger and enhancing your quality of life.

Damaged front teeth can be especially challenging, affecting not only your ability to eat and chew but also your confidence in your appearance. Porcelain crowns can transform both your oral health and self-esteem, giving you that “perfect smile” that will bring a smile to your face and enhance your overall quality of life.

dental patient in chair

The Porcelain Crown Procedures

Getting a porcelain crown usually involves two appointments at our dental office, where the first appointment involves preparing your teeth, assessing internal cracks, removing decay, and placing a temporary crown. The temporary crown is placed using non-permanent cement and checked for proper alignment and comfort while the permanent crown is being customised.

At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, the tooth is cleaned, and the new porcelain crown is bonded to the tooth using local anesthesia. The patient’s bite is checked to ensure that the crown fits correctly. We will provide instructions on how to care for the new crown, and it will be monitored during regular dental check-ups.

ADDITIONAL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PORCELAIN DENTAL CROWNS

What to expect after a porcelain crown procedure

After the installation of porcelain crowns and healing, normal eating and drinking can be resumed, and the crowns can be cared for with brushing and flossing like natural teeth. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth may be beneficial. It may take time to adjust to the feeling of the crown in the mouth, and a dentist may need to adjust the crown if discomfort persists.

How long do porcelain crowns last?

Porcelain crowns need to be regularly examined and may need to be replaced if they become chipped or damaged. Loose or falling-off crowns should be immediately addressed as they can cause increased tooth decay and other problems. While properly fitted dental crowns should feel and operate like natural teeth, if they feel loose or insecure, a dentist should be contacted for repair or replacement.

Are porcelain crowns more expensive than other types of crowns?

Porcelain crowns tend to be more expensive than other types of crowns, such as metal or resin crowns. However, they are also more durable, longer-lasting, and provide a more natural-looking appearance. The cost of a porcelain crown will depend on a variety of factors, including the complexity of the procedure and your geographical location.

Can I eat and drink normally with a porcelain crown?

Yes, after your mouth has fully healed, you can eat and drink normally with a porcelain crown. Porcelain crowns are strong and durable and are designed to withstand normal biting and chewing forces. However, you should avoid eating sticky or hard foods that can damage your crown.

How do you care for porcelain dental crowns?

Proper dental hygiene is required for porcelain crowns, as they can still get cavities and tooth decay. Regular brushing and flossing are necessary, as crowns can still stain, especially with coffee and red wine consumption. Teeth whitening products do not work on caps or crowns, so replacement or update may be necessary for white teeth caps.

Is there a dentist near me in Central Falls that offers porcelain dental crowns?

Yes.  At our Central Falls dental office we offer porcelain dental crowns to patients from Central Falls and the surrounding area.  Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Schedule an Appointment

401-722-4086

Smile Makeover

Apr 2, 2023

Smile Makeover Dentist in Central Falls

Let us change your life with a smile you’ll love. Schedule your life changing appointment today!

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. It’s a reflection of your personality, your confidence, and your overall health. But if you’re self-conscious about your teeth, it can be hard to share your smile with the world. That’s where a smile makeover comes in. A smile makeover is a customized treatment plan that can help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you’re looking to fix crooked teeth, whiten your smile, or replace missing teeth, our team of dental experts is here to help you transform your smile and boost your confidence.

handsome man smiling

What is a smile makeover?

A smile makeover is a customized treatment plan that combines cosmetic dentistry procedures to improve the appearance of your smile. It’s a comprehensive approach that takes into account your unique dental needs and aesthetic goals. At our dental office, we offer a range of smile makeover services to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you’re looking to improve the color, shape, or alignment of your teeth, we have a solution for you. Our smile makeover options include porcelain veneers, porcelain crowns, dental implants, and teeth whitening. With our expertise and state-of-the-art technology, we can help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile that you’ll be proud to show off.

What can a smile makeover do?

At Blackstone Dental we offer a full range of cosmetic dentistry options that can conceal or repair nearly any dental concern. Our dentist has experience and expertise in treating conditions that impair the health and/or appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. During a one-on-one consultation we will listen to your specific aspirations, understands your concerns, and designs an individualized approach for giving you that great-looking smile of your dreams.

To schedule a consultation for smile design, please contact us today.

Are You Ready for a Smile Makeover?

If you’re considering a cosmetic dental treatment, ask yourself a few simple questions:

  • Do you feel self-conscious when you smile?
  • Would you like to boost your self-confidence?
  • Do you desire to present your best self in social or professional settings?
  • Are you ready to address any dental imperfections you may have?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, a smile makeover by our dentist is the solution you have been seeking! Blackstone Dental provides an array of treatments to enhance your smile, including Invisalign® clear aligners, porcelain veneers, dental implants, and teeth whitening.

Contact us today to book a consultation with our dentist and embark on your journey towards a brighter, more confident smile!

smile makeover smile sm

ADDITIONAL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SMILE MAKOVERS

How long does a smile makeover take?

The timeline of the smile makeover process can vary considerably. This is because each smile makeover is planned according to the patient’s needs and aesthetic goals, and different combinations of treatments will take longer than others. It is also important to note that certain procedures may warrant multiple visits to accommodate healing periods and the crafting of customized restorations (e.g., veneers or implants), whereas others can be completed in one day. Dr. Emmanuel Frias can provide you with a more concrete estimation after helping you determine the precise course of your makeover.

How long will my smile makeover results last?

The skills of a qualified dental professional like Dr. Emmanuel Frias combined with durable ceramic materials typically make for long-lasting effects; however, the longevity of your makeover will depend on the solutions you choose to incorporate. With proper care, veneers, crowns, fillings, and other restorations can last for years without needing replacements, while teeth whitening often requires multiple treatment sessions. Ultimately, the best way to prolong the results of your smile makeover is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing at least twice daily, flossing regularly, and attending routine exams and cleanings. Additionally, you may want to avoid smoking tobacco and consuming foods or drinks that are prone to staining in order to maintain the shiny, natural-looking results of your smile makeover.

Who is good candidate for a smile makeover?

To determine if a patient is a good candidate for a smile makeover, it is recommended to schedule a consultation with the dentist. While most people can benefit from the procedure, preexisting conditions like gum disease or tooth decay must be addressed first before proceeding with the makeover.

Does dental insurance cover smile makeovers?

Unfortunately, because most treatments included in a smile makeover are chiefly cosmetic, most insurance companies will not cover them. That being said, if non-cosmetic procedures, such as dental implants, are to be incorporated into the makeover, they may qualify for at least partial coverage. We encourage you to ask our team about our financial options.

To find out if Dr. Emmanuel Frias is the right cosmetic dentist for your smile makeover, we encourage you to contact our Blackstone Dental office to schedule a consultation.

Is there a cosmetic dentist near me in Central Falls that offers smile makeover?

Yes.  At our Central Falls dental office we offer smile makeover to patients from Central Falls and the surrounding area.  Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Schedule an Appointment

401-722-4086

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Gum Lift / Gum Contoring

Apr 6, 2023

Gum Lift / Gum Contouring

Transform your smile with a gum lift

Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping or gum lifting, is a cosmetic dental procedure that has gained immense popularity in recent years. It involves removing excess gum tissue to reveal more of the tooth structure, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing and balanced smile. Gum contouring can address a variety of dental issues, from a “gummy” smile to uneven gum lines, and it can be performed using various techniques, including laser technology. With minimal discomfort and quick recovery time, gum contouring can transform your smile and boost your confidence. Read on to learn more about this transformative procedure and how it can benefit you.

gum contoring before and after

What is a gum lift?

Gum reshaping is a cosmetic procedure commonly used to create a more balanced and harmonious appearance between the teeth and gums. Many patients who have excessive gum tissue visible when they smile, also known as a “gummy smile,” may feel self-conscious about their appearance. By opting for a gum lift, these patients can achieve a more proportional smile and experience renewed self-confidence. Laser gum contouring, which is often used in this procedure, typically involves minimal discomfort and requires little downtime, allowing patients to resume their daily activities soon after the procedure. If you’re looking to enhance your smile and boost your self-confidence, gum reshaping may be a great option to consider.

What are the benefits of a gum lift?

If you are dealing with a “gummy smile,” a laser gum lift can offer you several benefits, such as:

  • Improving the appearance of your smile
  • Fixing an uneven gum line
  • Making your teeth look longer
  • Creating a more symmetrical smile
  • Boosting your self-confidence
perfect smile

What can I expect during the gum lift procedure?

Today, modern gum lift treatments usually involve a less invasive method that utilizes soft tissue laser technology. With a soft tissue dental laser, tissues can be reshaped without additional bleeding, swelling, or lengthy recovery after the appointment. The mild cauterization performed by the laser itself ensures a speedier healing process without the typical side-effects of surgical gum lifts.

Most laser gum treatments are essentially pain-free and can be completed in a relatively short in-office procedure.  Due to the minimally invasive technology, we’re able to predictably reshape your gingiva in what feels like everyday, routine dental treatment.

Here’s how it works: Once your gum tissues are completely numb, we use the laser like a handheld pen to retrace the desired shape of your gingiva. There are small flashes of light and sometimes a bit of beeping. As we slowly retrace the new shape from one tooth to the next, the gums naturally lift back to reveal more of your tooth structure. And since no cutting is involved, there’s little to no bleeding or postoperative inflammation. You’ll quickly be on your way to a speedy recovery!

ADDITIONAL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GUM LIFT

Is gum lift or gum contouring a painful procedure?

Most gum lift or gum contouring procedures are performed using laser technology, which is virtually painless. Patients may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity afterward, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

How long does a gum lift or gum contouring procedure take?

Depending on the extent of the treatment, gum lift or gum contouring procedures can typically be completed in one to two hours.

How long does it take to recover from a gum lift or gum contouring procedure?

Recovery time from gum lift or gum contouring is minimal. Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately following the procedure.

How long do the results of gum lift or gum contouring last?

The results of gum lift or gum contouring are long-lasting.

Is gum lift or gum contouring covered by insurance?

Gum lift or gum contouring is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. However, some insurance plans may cover the cost of treatment if it is medically necessary.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with gum lift or gum contouring?

While gum lift or gum contouring is generally considered safe, there is a small risk of infection or bleeding. Some patients may also experience temporary swelling or sensitivity.

Can gum lift or gum contouring improve my oral health?

Gum lift or gum contouring is primarily a cosmetic procedure, but it can also have some oral health benefits. By removing excess gum tissue, it can make it easier to clean your teeth and reduce the risk of gum disease.

How do I know if gum lift or gum contouring is right for me?

If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your smile due to excessive gum tissue or an uneven gum line, gum lift or gum contouring may be a good option for you. Contact our office today to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

Is there a dentist near me in Central Falls that offers gum lift procedure?

Yes.  At our Central Falls dental office we offer gum lift procedure to patients from Central Falls and the surrounding area.  Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Schedule an Appointment

401-722-4086

Helpful Related Links