When many people think about dentists and how they care for their patients, they focus on how we keep teeth clean and healthy only as long as the teeth remain in your mouth. The truth is that it is sometimes in your best interest to remove a tooth rather than attempt to treat it. There 
are a number of scenarios in which a tooth should be extracted entirely rather than treated with a dental restoration like a filling or crown.
This or That: Teeth Whitening vs. Porcelain Veneers
Cosmetic dentistry is an accessible, effective way to improve the way you look without the need for plastic surgery or invasive treatments. Teeth whitening, the most popular cosmetic dental treatment in the country, and porcelain veneers, a Hollywood favorite, are two of several available procedures available to our patients. How do you know which of the two is best suited to your unique needs?
Perks of Professional Teeth Whitening
Of the two, teeth whitening from your cosmetic dentist requires less of an investment, although the results do not last as long. Bleaching can last several months if the teeth are cleaned regularly and properly maintained. We offer free refills on our teeth whitening formula and kits for life, so there is no need to pay for future touch-ups; the same cannot be said for over-the-counter whitening products. Whitening is also ideal for gradual improvements and works best for patients teeth show minimal to moderate signs of staining.
Versatility of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are capable of achieving the same results as teeth whitening, but their benefits are not limited to making teeth look whiter. First, though, it bears mentioning that veneers are often recommended for patients whose teeth show severe staining that is not treatable with professional bleaching. Each veneer has several super-thin layers of porcelain that actually cover the surface of your tooth, and in doing so they hide discoloration, no matter how severe.
Veneers do require a greater investment, but they last several years. Some patients have kept their veneers for as long as twenty years. If whitening is not your only goal, you may be a candidate for veneers. We use these popular restorations to treat everything from chips and minor cracks to gaps between teeth. In some cases, we can even use veneers to make your teeth look straighter without the need for orthodontic treatment.
About Your Conroe Cosmetic Dentist
For more details about cosmetic or sedation dentistry in Conroe, TX, or to schedule an appointment with At the The Dental Centre of Conroe, John M Richards DDS delivers distinctive cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry for residents of Conroe, Houston, The Woodlands, Willis, Huntsville, and the neighboring communities. For more information about our services, or to schedule an appointment, contact us by calling(936) 441-4600.
Why Grinding Causes Grief for Your Teeth
Obviously calling something a “bad” habit implies a problem, but some tics and habits are more destructive than others. Tapping your fingers on the desk? Annoying. Smacking your gum? Awful. Grinding your teeth? Downright destructive. Whether you realize it or not, your teeth can take a real beating from even the most seemingly harmless behaviors. If you find yourself grinding your teeth, a condition called bruxism, it’s time to seek alternate means of coping with your stress.
Benefits of Using Modern Dental Technology
Some aspects of dentistry will almost certainly remain the same throughout your life. You will continue to visit us for twice-yearly cleaning and exams, just as you will always brush your teeth two to three times a day. Flossing a minimum of once daily will always be in vogue, and a healthy, white smile is always in style. Other things, such as dental technology, have changed greatly in the past few years. Let’s look at some of the modern dental technology making your dental appointment more comfortable and effective.
Considering Dental Implants? Ask Yourself These Questions
When many people think about the effects of aging on their physical health and appearance, their concerns center on things like gray hairs and weight gain. What not everyone understands is that growing older (and wiser) also means big changes for your teeth and gums. Tooth loss, once thought to be an issue only for older adults and a natural consequence of aging, has now been determined to be not only very harmful, but preventable as well. If you have lost one or more teeth, it’s time to explore your options.
Free Teeth Whitening Touch-ups for Life? Do Tell!
Did you know that whiter teeth are at the top of more Americans’ wish lists than any other cosmetic dental treatment? The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry reveals that no other procedure has the same universal appeal as teeth bleaching, so we are pleased to offer a professional-strength alternative to whitening strips and drugstore whitening products. Here are three compelling reasons to consider professional teeth whitening over so-so whitening kits from the toothpaste aisle.
December 2014 Picks for Healthy Events in Conroe
December isn’t exactly a month known for inspiring healthy habits–isn’t that what New Year’s resolutions are for?–but that doesn’t mean you can simply ignore your oral health. Even when holiday stress threatens your sanity, it’s important to take good care of your body. Here are a few health-friendly events we’ve heard about in the Conroe area this month. By the way, December is an excellent month to squeeze in one last professional cleaning and dental checkup–just saying.
Dentistry Gets Dreamy: An Overview of Sedation Dentistry
Going to the dentist sure isn’t what it used to be. Years ago, a dental exam had unpleasant connotations. Fortunately, modern dentistry has much to offer the equally modern patient. One such benefit, sedation dentistry, affords a convenience and comfort not usually experienced in traditional dental offices. Understanding the advantages of sedation dentistry is essential to making an informed decision about your oral health.
3 Compelling Reasons to Choose Dentures
Have you considered full or partial dentures to restore your smile but come up with reasons to avoid them? Do you feel like you aren’t quite sure what to do about your smile, but you are tired of dealing with the negative side effects of tooth loss? Patients often have preconceived notions about this restorative procedure and end up missing out on a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a beautifully restored smile. Consider three compelling reasons to choose this treatment and you may find that dentures are truly something to smile about.
Say “Yes” to Tooth-Colored Fillings
Your teeth are composed of translucent tissue layers, which is why a metal filling can cause a tooth to appear dark. Fortunately, with tooth-colored fillings, your tooth continues to look just like it did before your cavity. Wondering what else makes this restorative treatment so fantastic? Consider three reasons to say, “yes.”
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