4 Treatments from a Cosmetic Dentist to Improve Your Smile

Are you looking on information about how a cosmetic dentist can improve the appearance of your smile? A study conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry showed that about 50 percent of adults think that a smile creates a lasting impression on a first meeting. More people are beginning to look for ways to beautify their smile and look flawless due to the popularity of social media.

Nowadays, cosmetic dentistry is intertwined with medical dentistry. A cosmetic dentist finds a way to perform tooth restorations and other dental procedures cosmetically and aesthetically. With the materials available today, any lost, decayed or degraded teeth can be repaired and restored to look natural and still be highly functional.

4 Treatments from a cosmetic dentist

The following are treatments available from a cosmetic dentist to enhance one's smile.

1. Teeth whitening

One of the most common concerns people have about their smile is its color. Teeth whitening, sometimes called teeth bleaching, is a fast and harmless way to improve the teeth’s appearance by eliminating their surface stains and discoloration.

Although at-home kits can be procured from stores, they are not as effective and durable as in-office teeth whitening treatments. The concentration of the bleach is lower, and the results are not always significant. Several factors are responsible for teeth yellowing or discoloration, and the treatment has to be specifically designed for the stain. A cosmetic dentist will evaluate the teeth to determine the best approach for whitening.

2. Dental bonding

Dental bonding is performed to fix chipped or decayed teeth, alter the shape of the teeth or close spaces between teeth. The treatment involves applying a strong plastic resin on the tooth. Using a special light, the dentist will then cure the resin which is customized to match the natural color of the teeth. The result is a better-looking smile that appears natural. The duration of the treatment depends on the number of teeth involved, but about 30 to 60 minutes are required per tooth.

3. Enamel shaping

Also known as enameloplasty, enamel shaping is similar to dental bonding and is used to correct small chips, unevenly shaped teeth and irregular enamel. In contrast to enamel, however, enamel shaping is permanent since the process requires shaving or stripping to remove part of the enamel’s structure.

4. Dental veneers

Also called porcelain veneers or dental laminates, the veneer is the most popular cosmetic treatment choice for patients wishing to correct misaligned, chipped or unevenly shaped or spaced teeth. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells created from resin or porcelain to cover the front surface of the tooth. They are applied with a bonding material and customized to match the tooth’s color. Although it is entirely dependent on personal preference, porcelain is stronger and more resistant to stains than resin and gives off a more natural luster.

In conclusion

To get the best results, consult a cosmetic dentist with expertise and experience. It is important that you receive treatment from someone who is fully trained in the latest techniques and materials.

Request an appointment here: or call John M. Chaves, DDS at (818) 999-2707 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist.

Dental Implant Surgery: What is Osseointegration?

Dental implant surgery can be a scary procedure that causes dental anxiety in patients. By understanding what to expect during dental implant surgery, however, patients can calm their nerves and take each step of the process in stride.

Dental implant surgery

The dental implant process is very detailed, and there are several stages that take place throughout the procedure, including the surgery and osseointegration. The following is everything a potential patient needs to know about dental implant surgery, osseointegration and the entire process in general.

What is dental implant surgery?

Dental implants require a surgical procedure to place the implant component into the jawbone. While it is surgery, the procedure carries very little risk and is a minimally invasive procedure overall. The process involves making an incision into the gums and drilling into the jawbone, after which the implant is inserted deep into the bone. After osseointegration takes place (more on this below), the implant serves as the artificial tooth root.

However, each surgery is different, and the procedure may also involve other surgical components as well, including damaged tooth removal or bone grafting.

What is osseointegration?

The term osseointegration refers to the natural process that takes place when a dental implant fuses with the jawbone. To fully understand what osseointegration is, it is important to understand how the body reacts to foreign objects. Typically, when the body encounters a foreign object it rejects it and tries to expel it from the body. However, there is one exception: Titanium.

When the body experiences titanium, rather than reject it, the bone accepts it and fuses with the titanium - a process called osseointegration. Essentially, osseointegration is the process that takes places when the implant fuses and works in unison with the jawbone to serve as the root of the artificial tooth

How long do dental implants last?

After osseointegration takes place following dental implant surgery, the artificial tooth can be placed on the abutment of the implant. Since the dental implant is fused into the jawbone, the artificial tooth is securely fastened into place. While the exact lifespan of a dental implant is dependent on how well they are cared for, they typically last well over a decade without needing to be replaced. In fact, it is not unusual for dental implants to last for more than twenty-five years.

When compared against other teeth replacement options, dental implants are by far the longest-lasting, most permanent solution available.

Talk to a dentist about dental implant surgery

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and restore the natural appearance of your smile to a point in which you can truly feel confident. If you are considering dental implant surgery - or simply want to learn more about dental implants or osseointegration - contact us and schedule a time to come in for a visit.

Everyone deserves to feel confident in their smile and be able to function each day in a normal manner, and we are dedicated to helping patients accomplish just that through dental implant surgery.

Request an appointment here: or call John M. Chaves, DDS at (818) 999-2707 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants.

How Invisalign® Can Improve Your Smile

Looking for details on how Invisalign can improve the way you look when you smile? If your teeth are not as straight as you would like them to be and, for that reason, you tend to hide your smile, then know that Invisalign is a teeth-straightening option that just may be the right choice for you. Many people who are living with crooked teeth will continue living with their crooked teeth because they do not want to wear braces.

They may not like the way braces look or they do not want to be bothered taking care of braces as they feel they simply do not have the time to give. If this sounds like you, then finding out more about how Invisalign can straighten your teeth is going to be well worth your time.

How Invisalign improves smiles

Invisalign improves smiles by straightening one’s teeth in a very short amount of time. The Invisalign process is a great choice for those who have minimally crooked teeth. This allows them to have an improved smile without the need to wear traditional braces. The following is a list of general information as well as benefits that come with choosing Invisalign to improve someone’s smile.

How Invisalign works

The Invisalign teeth straightening process uses a certain number of clear aligners to straighten one’s teeth. This simply depends on each patient's individual needs. They are barely noticeable when being worn and can be removed from one’s mouth for a certain amount of time every day. The aligners are custom-made for each dental patient and need to be replaced every few weeks. The average amount of time one can expect to have straighter teeth is about nine months.

The aligners can be taken out for a certain period of time every day. Thus, it is possible for those who choose this option for improving their smile to remove them when attending special events, like a wedding or an anniversary celebration.

Choosing the right dental professional

Making a consultation appointment with a dental professional for their advice is recommended. This is the ideal time to ask any questions about the Invisalign teeth straightening process. Once someone has chosen the right dental professional, the dentist will provide them with an Invisalign based treatment plan. This treatment plan is specifically designed for them.

Is Invisalign the right choice for you?

Now that you understand more about how Invisalign can improve the way you look when you smile, is this the right choice for you? The benefits that come with choosing this teeth-straightening option are many. They can give you the straight teeth you want in a very short amount of time.

If you do not feel confident showing your teeth when you smile because they are not as straight as you would like them to be, then making a consultation appointment to find out more about your Invisalign options is highly recommended.

Request an appointment here: or call John M. Chaves, DDS at (818) 999-2707 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.

Check out what others are saying about our Invisalign® services on Yelp: Invisalign.

Visit Us for Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions

Are you wondering if cosmetic dentistry is for you? If you are not completely happy with your smile, then there is likely a treatment that can help you.

In the past, getting a new smile was expensive and only something celebrities could afford. Now, there are many types of cosmetic options dentists are offering their patients at affordable rates. It is easier than ever for anyone to improve their smile.

If you smile limits your self-confidence or affects any aspect of your life, cosmetic dentistry can help.

About cosmetic dentistry

Many people want to improve their smile after years of neglect, discoloration or damage to their teeth. Sometimes, your genetics can affect your smile and how your teeth grow. Cosmetic dentistry provides solutions for any concerns you may have about your smile.

Here are a few common treatments that cosmetic dentists offer.

Professional teeth whitening

A professional teeth whitening treatment can do wonders for a discolored smile. The entire whitening process only takes about an hour or so and can last a year or even longer with proper oral care.

Reshaping teeth

Teeth come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. When one or more teeth look to be out of place, cosmetic dentistry solutions can reshape the teeth to help them blend in with the rest. You may only need to see a dentist for 30 minutes to reshape a problem tooth.

Tooth replacement

When someone is missing one or more of their teeth, it can limit their self-confidence. More and more people who are missing teeth are choosing to have dental implants to replace their missing tooth. A dental implant acts just like a real tooth as it attaches to the jawbone and looks like a normal tooth.

Repairing minor damage to teeth

Dental bonding can repair minor damage to teeth, which includes chips, cracks, stains and cavities. The bonding is made up of a tooth-colored resin material that blends in well. You may need to see a dentist after some time to touch up the bonding material.

Minimizing gaps between teeth

Whether someone has a large gap or a small gap in between their teeth, they can choose to minimize these gaps in a way that allows them to feel confident when showing off their smile. This also uses bonding to fill in the area to make teeth appear closer to one another.

Can cosmetic dentistry improve your smile?

If you have any concerns regarding your teeth or gums, then a cosmetic dentist has a solution like those mentioned above. The process varies with each treatment, but modern technology has made it easier than ever to get a new smile.

That said, you need to practice good oral hygiene to maintain your new smile. Any bad habits like smoking or chewing on hard objects can cause future problems.

If you want to learn more about cosmetic dentistry, then call our office. We can assess your dental health and review your goals to find the best course of action.

Are you considering cosmetic dentistry in the Woodland Hills area? Get more information at .

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist.

Dental Implants Pros and Cons

Dental Implants are an increasingly popular option for patients with missing or damaged teeth. Made to look, feel and function just like natural teeth, dental implants can make a world of difference to a patient’s quality of life. Considering whether to opt for dental implants or not often involves weighing the pros and cons of the procedure. There are many dental implant pros and cons that we will explore in this article.

Dental Implant Pros

By far, the pros of dental implants outweigh the cons. Recipients of dental implants often wonder how they lived without them, as dental implants restore functionality like no other dental technology. Benefits are plenty but will depend on the patient.

Easier eating

Missing or damaged teeth can prevent patients from enjoying the foods they love, or even an entire category of food, such as hard or crunchy foods. Dental implants are made from titanium and are easily accepted by the body, which restores proper chewing strength.

Better appearance

Dental implants are designed for a realistic appearance. Each tooth is made to match the color of a patient’s natural teeth. Even in the event that many dental implants are used to fill a gumline, it is possible to have a beautiful, healthy smile again.

Improved speech

Often, damaged or missing teeth can hinder speech. Teeth are used to produce the distinct characteristics of many sounds that compose spoken language. By restoring teeth to a more natural composition, it is possible to speak more clearly.

Lasting durability

Many traditional alternatives to implants wear down with time, may dislodge or break. Implants, on the other hand, can last decades with proper care. The titanium composition makes them strong and durable.

Improved comfort

Compared to alternatives such as traditional dentures, implants or dentures anchored to implants provide a fixed solution that will not cause irritation by rubbing against the gums.

Cost savings

Since implants can last decades with proper care, it is possible to save money compared to the expense of replacing fillings or broken dentures. Additionally, the use of dentures anchored to implants does not require the purchase of denture adhesive.

Better oral health

Because implants cannot get cavities, a mouth full of implants is much more resistant to disease. Additionally, opting to replace problem teeth stops the advance of an existing disease or other issues.

Dental Implants Cons

No procedure is without some potential pitfalls, and implants are no different. There are some factors patients may want to consider before committing to implants.

Dental implants require surgery

Dental implants are a surgical procedure. Understandably, many patients are not comfortable with the idea of surgery. However, this should be weighed against the potential for surgery on a problem area if an implant is not used.

The cost of implants varies

Implants are not necessarily costly, especially compared to the potential expenses of leaving problem teeth in place. However, the cost will be as steep as the number of teeth that require replacing.

Dental Implant Pros and Cons Conclusion

Dental implants are an increasingly popular solution to a host of oral health concerns. Restoration of the natural function and appearance of damaged or missing teeth make them an excellent option to discuss with a dentist.

Are you considering dental implants in the Woodland Hills area? Get more information at .

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants.

Cosmetic Dentistry for Great-Looking Teeth

A newer dental specialty is becoming more popular in many cities: Cosmetic dentistry. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), "cosmetic dentistry is dentistry aimed at creating a positive change to your teeth and to your smile ... (a)esthetic dentistry must complement the overall general and oral health of the patient."

Cosmetic dentistry procedures

A cosmetic dentist has a wide range of services that they can offer to make your smile more radiant.

Teeth whitening

This is the set of procedures that most people think of when they think of a cosmetic dentist. Teeth whitening is usually done with a peroxide bleach solution and sometimes UV light. An advantage of a dentist performing teeth whitening versus you doing it at home is that the process is much faster (a couple hours instead of a few weeks) and can achieve brighter results than home kits.

Teeth whitening in your dentist's office can take a few hours, though, so be prepared to sit for a while with a UV light shining onto your teeth.

Dental veneers

Dental veneers are a medical-grade (will not cause inflammation or allow bacteria to grow) ceramic made for your individual teeth. A cosmetic dentist can make them look realistic, and they are used for crooked teeth, cracked teeth or damaged enamel. Veneers are applied to specific teeth and can stay for years.

Composite bonding

Bonding is a procedure in cosmetic dentistry that can help fix damaged enamel in your teeth. Enamel can be damaged in a number of ways, including cracks, chips or gum disease. Composite bonding involves the application of a putty-like resin to the damaged teeth. The cosmetic dentist chooses the correct color and then shapes the resin to match the desired shape.

This is another treatment that can last for up to 10 years. Make sure to see your dentist regularly to ensure that the bonding is still properly applied.

Implants

A cosmetic dentist will use dental implants to replace lost teeth. An implant is typically used instead of a denture because dentures can cause damage to the upper and lower jawbones. When an implant is placed, it is almost indistinguishable from a normal tooth.

Be aware that implant procedures can sometimes be very invasive depending on the number of teeth you need implanted. Update your medication list with your dentist beforehand because you might need post-operative care.

Inlays and onlays

An inlay or onlay is known as an "indirect filling." They are a sort of middle-ground between a filling and an implant.

Your dentist will take a mold of the tooth in question and send it off to fit the inlay or onlay. Therefore, this procedure usually takes at least two appointments. An inlay or onlay is a versatile procedure that can last years and produces good results.

How do I find a cosmetic dentist?

A good place to start is our office! Our trained professionals would be happy to help guide you through the process of finding a skilled cosmetic dentist.

Request an appointment here: or call John M. Chaves, DDS at (818) 999-2707 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist.

Invisalign: Foods and Drinks to Avoid

In this day and age, there are more options other than traditional braces for straightening the teeth. Over time, dental technology has improved greatly with things like aligners as an alternative to braces. Aligners are created in a variety of forms but one of the most popular methods is the use of Invisalign.

Invisalign are clear aligners that are changed out every two weeks or so. They work to straighten all of the teeth together as one, instead of braces where the wiring and brackets straighten each tooth individually.

Knowing what foods and beverages to avoid with Invisalign can be helpful to a person that has them. While a person may not be as restricted with their food and beverage intake, there are still certain things that may be best to avoid. Today we will discuss what to avoid when using Invisalign.

Foods and beverages to avoid

Chewy foods

Foods that are especially chewy or sticky may be best to avoid. The substance can cause damage to the Invisalign itself which could halt the process of straightening the teeth. Invisalign is not a cheap form of dental care so it’s best to avoid anything chewy that might cause damage to it. Gums, taffy or jerkies are all considered chewy and they are best to avoid if possible.

Hard foods or candies

Just like with chewy foods, hard foods are also best to avoid because they can cause severe damage to the Invisalign. Candies that are too hard may crack or chip the Invisalign which would again require replacing. It is also advised to avoid meats that may have bones in them because accidentally biting down on the bone could cause damage to the Invisalign as well.

Coffees, teas and wines

While coffees, teas and wines are also harmful to the teeth itself, they also put Invisalign at risk because of staining. These drinks are all high in dyes and can cause a change in color to almost any surface that they touch. If they stain the Invisalign it may cause it to look dirty, thus causing the teeth to look darker than they might actually be.

Conclusion

Invisalign can offer a person a way to straighten their teeth with way less of a commitment than that of braces. They are not only more aesthetically pleasing but they also are easier to manage. Although they can be on the pricier side, if one maintains them responsibly then they have no need to worry about the costs of replacing them. Avoiding these specific foods and beverages for a short time when using Invisalign can be extremely beneficial in the long run.

If you have questions or concerns about Invisalign, then reach out to our office today. Our trained office staff can help guide you through what’s okay to eat and what’s best to avoid. We’re happy to help in any way that we can!

Request an appointment here: or call John M. Chaves, DDS at (818) 999-2707 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign Orthodontist.

Dental Implants are a Solution for Your Missing Teeth

Dental implants are considered a long-term solution for missing teeth because they are permanently fixed in your jawbone. Fixed just like your natural teeth, they are perfect for replacing missing teeth. An added benefit of getting dental implants is the fact that you will not have to worry about tooth decay. Unlike your natural teeth, implants cannot develop cavities.

What can dental implants do?

Are dental implants better than dentures or fixed bridges?

Yes, dental implants are considered to be better than getting dentures or fixed bridges for several reasons. Bridges and dentures affect the neighboring healthy teeth and can also lead to bone loss in the jaw. This is because they are placed over the gums where your natural teeth are missing, but they do not stimulate the jaw bone.

If your teeth have been missing for a long time, your jaw bone loses density and starts to deteriorate, which can lead to damage to your facial structure. This makes you appear older than you really are. Dental implants not only replace your missing teeth, but they also stimulate your jaw bone. This is because the titanium posts that are fused to your jaw act like tooth roots and prevent the bone from deteriorating, allowing you to maintain your facial structure.

Another reason dental implants are considered to be better than dentures or fixed bridges is the fact that they can last a lifetime, which means you only have to pay for them once. Dentures and fixed bridges last 10 to 15 years, which means they have to be replaced at least once, which ends up costing you more than the implants in the long run.

What are dental implants comprised of?

Dental implants have three main components: The titanium posts, the abutment and the crown. The titanium posts are fused to your jaw bone and serve the same function as your tooth roots. The abutment is the part of the titanium post that is used to support the crown. The crown is screwed on to it after your gums have healed, replacing the missing tooth.

What are the benefits of dental crowns?

Dental crowns have numerous benefits, some of which include:

Functionality: Getting used to having dentures take a while because they do not feel right when they are initially put in there. Chewing and speaking are some of the biggest problems people with dentures have because they can slip in your mouth, making it difficult to chew properly and speak without slurring your words. Dental implants are just like your natural teeth allowing you to chew and speak without any hindrance

Look: Dental implants are the closest thing to having your natural teeth and they are almost impossible to differentiate from your real teeth

Easy to maintain: Dental implants do not require any type of special care. You clean them just like you do with your natural teeth by brushing and flossing regularly

Conclusion

Dental implants are the perfect solution for missing teeth because they look and perform like your natural teeth. If you have missing teeth and want to replace them, ask your dentist about getting dental implants.

Are you considering dental implants in the Woodland Hills area? Get more information at .

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants.

A Look at Onlays vs Crowns Longevity

Dental crowns and onlays are restorations to treat a single tooth. They are explicitly made for wide areas of decay that cannot be restored using a filling or inlay. The significant difference between the two is that while an onlay covers the tooth cusp, the inlay only fills parts of the cusps.

Crowns cover the biting surface of the tooth completely, including the tooth structure above the gum line.

In contrast to crowns, an onlay is a minor restoration when possible, since a lower amount of the tooth structure must be scraped to fit the onlay. An onlay is slightly less expensive than a crown.

Most people opt for dental onlays when they have the option. That said, it may take your dentist longer to install and onlay than a crown.

Onlay vs. crown longevity

There is no specific lifetime for onlays, but most will last around 10 years.

Dental crowns, on the other hand, can last between 5 to 15 years, depending on the quality of production and the care given.

The lifespan of these two restorations largely depends on how well you maintain your dental health.

To get the best out of onlays and crowns, you must avoid habits that can put undue pressure on the teeth and shorten your appliance’s lifespan.

Also, note that the teeth below your crown or onlay must remain strong and healthy. If the tooth suffers repeated decay, the appliance may need to be removed and replaced with another form of restoration.

Repeated wear can degrade your restoration, and some habits can hasten the process. Your crown or onlay may suffer damage through:

• Teeth grinding or clenching
• Using the teeth to open packages
• Fingernail biting
• Repeatedly chewing on hard objects such as ice
• Accidents or trauma

Other factors that affect longevity

Poor hygiene

Although the materials used for onlays and crowns are impervious to decay, the underlying tooth is not. If bacteria and plaque find their way below the restoration, a cavity can form. When this happens, your dentist may need to remove the restoration to treat the tooth.

Low-quality design or poor fit

Poorly designed restorations are likely to break early, which is why your dentist will take their time when taking your mold and examining your teeth. The dentist will ensure the restoration fits your teeth snugly. If the bite force is not spread evenly over the dental arch, the crown or onlay will suffer irreversible damage.

Aesthetics

Crowns or onlays made from porcelain-fused to metal contain a metal base. With time, the metal may start to reveal itself, changing the color to a darker shade. To extend the longevity and improve the aesthetics of the crown or onlay, choose a restoration made from porcelain or zirconia.

Should you choose onlays or crowns?

Ultimately, your dentist will examine your teeth and recommend the best option. The biggest factor will be the amount of decay.

Call our office if you would like to learn more about onlays or schedule an appointment.

Request an appointment here: or call John M. Chaves, DDS at (818) 999-2707 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.