Do you have a missing tooth that needs to be replaced? Are you planning to have a tooth extracted? Planning to replace your tooth in a timely manner will help keep your bite aligned, minimize any embarrassing situations, and allow you to eat all the foods you enjoy. Two of the most popular tooth replacement options in Raleigh include dental implants or fixed bridges. Which is the best treatment? Bridges and implants function completely differently from one another, so you’ll want to consider the advantages of each one. For decades, dental bridges were one of the most common forms of tooth repl ..read more

Do you ever feel self-conscious or embarrassed by the appearance of your teeth? Does your enamel look chipped, stained, or misshaped? Our Raleigh smile design team can help you restore your teeth to look their very best when it comes to crowns vs. veneers. When it comes to a smile makeover, you might wonder if a porcelain crown or veneers are best. Both serve different purposes, so understanding the benefits of each will help you decide which one is right for you.   Cosmetic Dentistry: Dental Crowns vs. Veneers You don’t have to be a movie star to enjoy a gorgeous new smile. Cosmetic dent ..read more

Are you getting cosmetic dental veneers in Raleigh soon? Here are some important post-op instructions to follow whether you’re getting porcelain veneers, no-prep veneers, or composite (chairside) veneer treatments:   The First Few Hours After Dental Veneers Treatment Your mouth may feel numb for 2-3 hours or so if local anesthetic was used during your appointment. Make sure not to accidentally bite or suck on your lips or cheeks, as it could cause significant soft tissue trauma. It’s also probably best not to eat anything until the anesthetic wears off. If you do feel the need to eat anyt ..read more

If you have a weak tooth due to a large amount of decay, a cracked tooth, or recently had a root canal, our Raleigh dentist will likely recommend that you have a dental crown (sometimes referred to as a “cap”) placed over the tooth to protect it. To do this, you’ll typically go through two separate procedures.  After the first appointment, you’ll have a temporary crown to take care of and at your final visit, you’ll leave with your permanent crown.  These restorations are different from each other and need to be cared for appropriately.     Getting a Dental Crown: The First ..read more

If you have a dental insurance policy and haven’t been to our Raleigh dentist lately, then now is the time to get caught up on your to-do list. Did you know that every year you’re allowed a certain “allowance” for benefits and that if you don’t use, you lose it? Why pay into a monthly premium for a policy that is just going to waste? Let’s learn a bit more about how your insurance policy works and how you can take full advantage of its benefits before the end of the year gets here.     Understanding Your Dental Insurance Policy   Every dental plan has a benefit period, which is ..read more

As the holiday season approaches, most of us know we probably need to keep an extra eye on our waistlines. Especially with all of the homemade treats, baked gifts, and feasting that we’ve been waiting to enjoy for so long! But just like our weight and our pant size, our teeth can be dramatically impacted when the holidays roll around. Fortunately, there are simple, smart steps to take that can help keep your mouth healthy (and your smile bright) all season long!   Without having to deny yourself of your holiday favorites, here are some easy tips to follow:     Can’t Brush? Rinse ..read more

    Sleep apnea is a condition where you stop breathing at night, causing you to wake up and drift back to sleep constantly throughout the evening.  When you don’t breathe, your brain and body aren’t receiving the proper amount of oxygen that they need.     Consequences of Untreated Sleep Apnea   That lack of oxygen to your body and brain caused by sleep apnea can really affect your quality of life and put you at risk for other health issues. For example, if this condition isn’t treated, sleep apnea can cause high blood pressure, stroke, cardiomyopathy (enlargeme ..read more

Root canal treatments repair the inner nerve chamber that runs the length of each tooth. Unlike fillings in the crown (top portion) of teeth, root canals run from the top to the tip of the root tip. As you might guess, they’re a bit more complex treatment than a routine dental filling. As such, they also cost more.   Worrying about if you can afford a root canal might get in the way of you and a healthy smile. Understanding what impacts the price of root canals in Raleigh can help you feel more confident about your treatment choices and put your mind at ease.     How Much do Roo ..read more

If you’re about to have a tooth removed or just came home from your dental extraction appointment, the right post-op care is extremely important. The better you’re able to care for your mouth after having a tooth pulled, the less likely you’ll be to experience unnecessary discomfort, infection, or a dry socket.   Whether you’re having a wisdom tooth removed or extractions because of periodontal disease (or anything in-between) your home care instructions will fairly identical. Here’s what you need to know:   After an Extraction: Eat Soft Foods for a Day or Two   In the first few ..read more

Do you have a missing tooth that needs to be replaced? Are you planning to have a tooth extracted? Planning to replace your tooth in a timely manner will help keep your bite aligned, minimize any embarrassing situations, and allow you to eat all the foods you enjoy. Two of the most popular tooth replacement options in Raleigh include dental implants or fixed bridges. Which is the best treatment? Bridges and implants function completely differently from one another, so you’ll want to consider the advantages of each one. For decades, dental bridges were one of the most common forms of tooth repl ..read more