COSMETIC SERVICES

Cosmetic Services

Bonding

Bonding in Newark, DE

Have your teeth lost their shine? Has your once bright smile, slowly faded over time, looking drab and worn? Are slightly chipped teeth making it uncomfortable to smile proudly? If you can relate to any of these situations, dental bonding may be the solution.

What Is Bonding?

Bonding is a relative simple procedure for restoring the natural appearance of your smile. The process consists of applying a white filling onto the chipped, stained, or misshapen tooth. This process can change your smile overnight, making you look younger and feel more confident. With just a single visit to your dentist’s office, you can get back the smile you deserve.

Tooth Bonding as Filling Material

Many of our patients have asked if there are other options besides unsightly, silver amalgam fillings. The answer is yes. Bonded fillings are a wonderful way to preserve the natural appearance of your teeth while repairing the damage done from tooth decay and used on both the front and back teeth. However, it is important to have a conversation with your dentist to make sure you are a candidate for tooth bonding. In some cases, the tooth location or extent of the decay may affect the ability to use the bonding material.

An Inexpensive Cosmetic Option

More and more patients are interested in tooth bonding because it is more affordable than other cosmetic treatments like porcelain veneers. Patients who opt for tooth bonding appreciate that the procedure is quick and often completed with just one trip to our office.

If you’re interested to learn more about tooth bonding, schedule an appointment with one of our dentists to discuss the particulars of your situation to determine the best treatment options. We will discuss the pros and cons of bonding and give you specific instructions on how to care for your teeth after the bonding material is applied. For example, bonding is susceptible to staining and is not as sturdy as other covering materials like porcelain veneers. However, if the bonding material would break, chip, or become discolored, call our offices right away and we will work with you to correct the problem quickly.

Residents of Newark, DE, who want to improve their appearance with tooth bonding can benefit from the expertise of the dentists at Progressive Dental Arts. Give us a call today to learn more!

Teeth Whitening - Cosmetic Dentists in Wilmington, DE

Bridges

Bridges in Newark, DE

Bridges are used in dentistry today as a method to replace missing teeth. They are also commonly used to reduce stress on your bite and to preserve the shape of your face. At Progressive Dental Arts, we work closely with you to make sure you understand the bridging process and how this dental appliance can improve your oral health.

How Do Bridges Work?

This fixed dental restoration permanently connects an artificial tooth to adjacent natural teeth or, in some cases, dental implants. A successfully affixed bridge can benefit you in many ways. Not only does it look great, but it works to close the gaps between where one or more teeth may have been. The bridge bonds onto the adjacent teeth for additional reinforcement and strength.

Various metals are used to fabricate a bridge. These metals include gold, alloy, and porcelain materials. In some cases, a blend of the different materials may be used.

What Is the Success Rate for Bridges?

As with any restorative dental method, the outcome of any bridge procedure centers on the strength of its foundation. This foundation includes your teeth, bone, and gums. One of the ways that you can contribute to the success of this procedure, and to make sure your bridge stays properly affixed, is to practice good oral hygiene. When you maintain your teeth and protect your jaw and gums from infection or other dental problems, you can expect your bridge to last for a long time.

Don’t forget to stay current with your regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist. During these appointments, we will examine the bridge and make sure that its foundation is still strong.

For more information about bridges and the role they play in your dental health, contact Progressive Dental Arts today to speak with your dentist one-on-one.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry in Newark, DE

Are you ashamed of your smile? Do you find yourself purposely avoiding social situations, so you don’t have to hide your laugh behind your hand? Millions of Americans avoid laughing or smiling because they are embarrassed by damaged, stained, or misshapen teeth. Thanks to the advances in dental treatment options and techniques, achieving a bright, healthy, and stunning smile is easier than ever before for all of our patients.

Are You Ready for a Smile Makeover?

If you’ve been considering cosmetic dental treatment, take a second to consider the following questions:

Do you walk around with a frown on your face because you are avoiding smiling?
Do you feel defeated because of your smile?
Have you had trouble in social and professional situations because of issues with your teeth?

If you’ve answered yes to any of the above questions, you may benefit from our unique cosmetic dentistry services that can greatly improve your smile and confidence. Don’t let dental imperfections hinder your ability to enjoy a good laugh with great friends! Life’s too short not to enjoy it to its fullest.

Cosmetic Dentistry – An Art and a Science

Let us assist you with achieving your smile makeover goals. At Progressive Dental Arts, we believe that cosmetic dentistry is both a science and art. When you call us for cosmetic dental care, you can reap the following benefits:

Smile improvement and enhancement
Smile restoration
Maintenance treatments to uphold your new and improved smile

A healthy, aesthetically pleasing smile is just another part of your overall oral care. At Progressive Dental Arts, we utilize ground-breaking and cutting-edge technology using advanced materials to help you attain a naturally, stunning smile.

Don’t let chipped, discolored, crooked, or missing teeth mess with your confidence. You deserve to have a smile you want to share with the world. If you are ready to take that next step and increase your confidence, give us a call today to schedule an appointment for your smile makeover.

Crowns

Are You a Candidate for a Crown?

Many of our patients wonder what the purpose of a crown is, and if they are candidates for this procedure. Crowns are a type of cosmetic restoration, but they also serve a structural function. This dental restorative improves the shape of a broken tooth or one weakened from decay while strengthening the tooth. At Progressive Dental Arts, we will examine your mouth and let you know if you are a good candidate for a crown. We recommend a crown if it is obvious your tooth is not able to support a filing. In some cases, we may suggest a partial crown, called an onlay, instead of a full crown.

How Are Crowns Applied?

The application of a crown is not as bad as it may sound. The procedure is relatively straightforward and offers numerous of benefits. To begin, we will adhere the crown to your existing tooth, going to great lengths to ensure that the section above the gum line is covered. Once this is completed, the crown becomes the new outside surface of your tooth.

What Type of Material Are Crowns Made Out Of?

Crowns are made from one of two materials: metal or porcelain. Sometimes we may choose to use a crown made of both materials; however, most of the dentists in our practice favor working with porcelain crowns. Not only is this a stronger material, but its natural translucency imitates the color of your natural teeth.

What Is the Procedure for Getting a Crown?

Crowns require, at a minimum, at least two visits to the dentist. The first visit is the preparation part of the process. Because crowns are made at a dental lab away from our offices, we have to make a mold of your tooth first to be sent to the lab. This tooth impression helps the lab technician create a crown that will function according to your jaw’s movements and bite.

To learn more about crowns, contact Progressive Dental Arts today. While we can’t help you achieve royal status, we certainly can make sure your fillings and teeth are protected.

Dentures

Dentures in Newark, DE

At Progressive Dental Arts, our dental practice is all about helping our patients smile with confidence. Acquiring a healthy and attractive smile is what matters to our patients, especially our denture patients. Our dental practice offers personalized denture services that help us meet the unique needs of our patients, and also offer comfort and convenience. You are one-of-a-kind, which is why we make the extra effort to ensure that your personalized experience leaves you with dentures that look natural and feel great!

The Facts about Dentures

Simply stated, dentures are replacement teeth that are removable, but look and feel like natural teeth. Our patients have two options when choosing dentures: partial dentures or full dentures. Let’s take a second to examine the differences between the choices.

Full dentures: Most patients choose this option when complete removal of all their natural teeth is necessary. A person will either receive conventional dentures or immediate dentures based on his or her individual situation.

Conventional dentures are not placed immediately following tooth removal. Instead, the gums are given proper time to heal before placing the dentures. Healing times vary from person to person, but can take several months.
Immediate dentures are just like their name indicates. They are placed in the mouth immediately after an extraction. However, immediate dentures do require regular adjustments the first couple of months and may not be as comfortable.

Partial dentures: This dental appliance is considered a removable alternative to bridges and bonded to a metal frame that is attached to one’s natural teeth. Partial dentures are a good solution to fill in the gaps where permanent teeth used to be. They are a detachable alternative to bridges affixed to a metal frame. This frame attaches to your natural teeth. We use partials to fill the space where permanent teeth used to be.

Choosing the Right Dentures for You

Dentures are not the solution for every patient who has experienced tooth loss. If you are considering dentures, schedule an appointment with us to discuss if this is the right option for you. When you attend your scheduled consultation, we go over all your treatment options and examine your mouth to determine if dentures will work well and help you treat ongoing dental health concerns.

Caring for Your Dentures

Although dentures are not natural teeth, they still require daily care. Dentures can attract bacteria and grow germs just like your natural teeth, which is why it is important to keep your teeth clean and free from bacteria. Here are some suggestions for cleaning your dentures and maintaining your gorgeous smile:

Be careful with your dentures. When taking out or inserting your dentures, stand over a sink of water, or place a folded towel on the sink in front of you. This simple bit of preparation can go a long way toward protecting your dentures should you accidentally drop them.
Brush your dentures on a daily basis. Like natural teeth, plaque and tartar can form on your dentures. Regular brushing will reduce the daily buildup of this sticky substance. Make sure to use a soft-bristled brush, taking care brush the surface lightly. Make sure you don’t bend or crack the appliance. If you have a full set of dentures, include tongue and gum cleaning to your oral hygiene routine. Use a soft-bristled brush to brush your tongue and gums.
Rinse your dentures after each meal to keep them clean.
Use recommended cleaners. Everyday toothpaste, mouthwashes, and other oral hygiene products can be harsh on your dentures. Our dentists recommend using a mild cleaner like hand or dish soap for safe cleaning. Ask us about products approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
Keep your dentures in water when not in use. Dentures that are not kept moist can quickly lose their shape, break, or crack. However, make sure you check with us to ensure you are following the right soaking protocol. Some dentures have different soaking solution requirements.

So You Broke Your Dentures. Now What?

The truth is that accidents happen. If your dentures broke, don’t panic. But do call our offices immediately. Continuing to wear broken dentures can cause irritation and lead to painful situations.

Lastly, don’t be a stranger. Come see us every six months for regular cleanings to keep your dentures looking good as new!

Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening in Newark, DE

Every day we speak with patients that are interested in learning how they can brighten their smiles. Today, there are a variety of techniques and products on the market to make achieving a picture-perfect smile easier than ever before. But, with so many products available, choosing the right method for you can be rather overwhelming. If you’re considering implementing a teeth whitening routine into your regular oral health regimen, give us a call and let one our whitening specialists discuss the different techniques available. We can help you decide between in-office whitening methods and at-home whitening products.

In-Office Teeth Whitening

This professional whitening option is completed in the office using a whitening laser or whitening lamp. These light sources increase the success of the procedure, making the whitening gel work harder for you. In-office teeth whitening procedures are ideal for individuals that desire immediate results. At Progressive Dental Arts, we help patients every day brighten their smiles for weddings, high school reunions, and other events where first impressions matter.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

At-home whitening is the preferred bleaching method for many of our patients because of the convenience and affordability. Let’s take a moment to review the various types of at-home methods, starting from the cheapest to the most effective.

Whitening Toothpastes and Mouthwashes

These products are the least expensive way to achieve a brighter smile. Whitening mouthwash and toothpaste use mild abrasives to buff the surface of the tooth, eliminating or reducing the appearance of surface stains. When using a whitening toothpaste or mouthwash product, it is important that you understand that these products do not have the ability to bleach your teeth by several shades. They are intended to slightly lighten your teeth, and the results may not be as noticeable as you hoped.

Paint-On Teeth Whiteners

You’ve probably heard of over-the-counter, paint-on teeth whiteners. This particular product is available on the shelves of your local drugstore and is quite inexpensive. You apply paint-on whiteners to the surface of your tooth using a tiny brush coated with whitening gel. After a small amount of time, the gel will change into a film that coats the entire surface of the tooth. You don’t have to wipe off the substance. Instead, the saliva in your mouth will help it dissolve.

Paint-on teeth whitening products are inexpensive and convenient, but they are rather ineffective at a dramatically whitening your teeth. And, they don’t always taste the greatest either.

Teeth Whitening Strips

Teeth whitening strips are marketed on television and in magazines and promise spectacular results. Made from thin, polyethylene (plastic) strips with a coating of hydrogen peroxide on one side, whitening strips are a very popular choice for individuals who want to whiten their teeth with spending a fortune. These kits come with strips for both the upper and lower teeth.

Whitening strips can be worn while you are working, watching television, cooking dinner, or doing any other sort of activity. They are worn for 30 minutes at a time, ideally twice a day. Leaving the strips on longer will not produce better results. The results you can expect from these strips depend on the severity of the stains, the strength of the bleaching agent, and whether or not the strips were properly applied.

Tray Bleaching

Tray bleaching can be done by purchasing drugstore kits, but it is best to contact us for custom-fitted trays. Opting for professional whitening trays has many benefits. The tray is customized to match your bite and fits perfectly over your teeth, giving you a custom whitening experience that you simply cannot get from drugstore products.

How does tray bleaching work? Great question! With the help of hydroxadicals, the peroxide in the gel breaks down, bleaching the teeth. Two reasons many people prefer tray bleaching is that the peroxide reaches all the teeth and offers a comfortable fit.

Most people will use the trays up to two weeks, but for maximum results, use the trays for as long as your dentist recommends. Most people will see noticeable results in as little as three days.

Regardless of which whitening product you choose, make sure to talk with us before beginning a teeth whitening treatment. Ideally, whitening should be done under the direct supervision of a dental professional. To learn more about the teeth whitening procedures used at Progressive Dental Arts, give us a call and schedule an appointment with one of our dentists.

Veneers

Stop hiding your smile because of poorly spaced, discolored, chipped, or cracked teeth. Instead, contact Progressive Dental Arts and find out how veneers can benefit you. This cosmetic procedure doesn’t just hide imperfections but corrects them. Veneers look natural and offer optimal results for patients interested in making slight adjustments to tweak the look of their smiles. What results is a striking smile that can help you gain the confidence you’ve been lacking.

Let Us Answer Your Questions about Veneers

Veneers are customized shells constructed from materials such as porcelain that resemble your natural tooth color. The shells are fitted over the front of your tooth, resulting in a perfect fit. To prep the tooth for the application of the covering, we make a 3D model of your teeth. Once this representation is completed, we send it to the lab to create your one-of-a-kind veneers. When the veneers make their way back to our office, we’ll prep your teeth to get them ready for the application. Precise prep work produces the best aesthetic results.

How Do I Take Care of My Veneers?

Taking care of your veneers is as easy as maintaining your regular teeth. However, it is important to pay attention to certain habits. For instance, we suggest that you avoid certain liquids like red wine, coffee, and tea. These products can stain your teeth as will tobacco products. You want to avoid exposing your veneers to agents that can cause discoloration. Although your new veneers are designed to be stain-resistant, if they do become tarnished they cannot be brightened with teeth whitening procedures.

To learn more about how veneers can give you a gorgeous smile, call Progressive Dental Arts in Newark, DE, today for a consultation!