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What Does Cosmetic Dentistry Entail? | Glenville Smiles

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 15:48:34 GMT

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Everyone wants to be proud of their smile, but unfortunately for most it doesn’t feel so easy to do so. Gaps in teeth, yellowing, uneven gums, missing teeth, and stains are just a few of the issues that could be keeping you from having your dream smile. Fortunately with cosmetic dentistry these issues can be fixed, and Glenville Smiles can give you the confidence you want in your teeth. Some methods that can help enhance your smile include:

Teeth Whitening:

Teeth whitening is a procedure that can brighten your smile from any discoloration or staining. It is one of the most well-known cosmetic dentistry procedures that can be done at home, but has better and faster results when done professionally.

Cosmetic Dental Veneers:

Veneers are constructed from medical-grade ceramic and are custom made to resemble your natural teeth. They are then cemented to the front side of the tooth with dental adhesive to treat cosmetic dental conditions such as crooked teeth, damaged or cracked enamel, and gaps between teeth.

Cosmetic Tooth Bonding

Bonding helps to cover tooth damage while restoring the appearance of the tooth. This procedure can be used to repair or improve the look of a tooth that has been badly stained, broken, or chipped.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are replacements for teeth that were lost for any reason. Your dentist will insert a small titanium screw where the tooth is missing, allowing a crown to then be placed on the screw to blend with the natural teeth.

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping or tissue sculpting, is a cosmetic procedure that can improve the appearance of a "gummy" smile or uneven gum line. By carefully removing excess gum tissue or reshaping the gums, cosmetic dentists can create a more balanced and harmonious smile that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the teeth.

Cosmetic dentistry continues to evolve, offering patients more options than ever before for achieving the smile of their dreams. Whether you're looking to correct minor imperfections or undergo a complete smile makeover, modern cosmetic dentistry techniques can help you achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results that boost your confidence and improve your overall quality of life. If you're considering cosmetic dental treatment, schedule a consultation with our qualified cosmetic dentist to explore your options and create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.

Schedule an Appointment Today!

There are many options for cosmetic dentistry that should be discussed with your dentist. Be sure to choose an office with the experience and training to give you exactly what you are looking for in your smile. Glenville Smiles provides a great deal of cosmetic dentistry procedures to leave you and your teeth feeling brand new.

Give us a call today to schedule an appointment and talk to our trusted doctors!

The Best Solutions for a Chipped Tooth | Glenville Smiles

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 19:31:38 GMT

Plan Your Smile Makeover Today!

While a chipped tooth may not impact the health of your smile, it can certainly affect your confidence. That’s why, at Glenville Smiles, we provide comprehensive dental services to help you gain a smile that’s both healthy and beautiful. From preventative dental care to cosmetic dental services like chipped tooth repair, we do it all to give you a smile you’ll be proud of.

We Want You To Love Your Smile!

When it comes to chipped teeth, we recommend a smile makeover: a personalized set of cosmetic dental services provided to restore your teeth. We understand that chipped, misaligned, missing, or discolored teeth can cause you to feel insecure, and we can provide a host of dental services to address these concerns.

The type of services we provide will be completely dependent on the size of the chip, our recommendations, and your approval, but a general rundown of our services that could help with a chipped tooth include:

Dental Veneers – An affordable and durable choice, porcelain veneers involve porcelain being bonded to the front side of the tooth.
Dental Crowns – Dental crowns are formed to match your other teeth and then placed on top of your tooth.
Fillings – One of the easiest ways to solve a simple break, fillings or bondings include a roughening of the surface of your tooth, followed by the application of a composite resin that is then shaped and hardened.
Dental Implants – Similar to a dental crown, implants help to replace a tooth that’s too damaged to stand on its own. However, these involve a metal frame implanted under the gums when the tooth isn’t able to support a crown.
Dental Bridges – Another complex option available when the teeth can’t support a simpler solution is a dental bridge. In this dental solution, a dental appliance is applied to the surrounding teeth and used as an anchor for the artificial tooth.

Schedule A Consolation Today!

No matter how bad the break, Glenville Smiles can provide professional cracked tooth repair. Find out more about our wide range of dental services by calling us today . We would be happy to schedule a consultation and show you how we can give you a smile makeover. We serve patients throughout Schenectady, NY and the surrounding areas.

Things You Need to Know About Dental Crowns

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 14:32:48 GMT

Dental Crowns 101

What Are Dental Crowns? What Are The Benefits Of Dental Crowns?

If you have an infected, problematic tooth, you have probably explored the dental crown option. For those that don’t know what a dental crown is, a dental crown is a fixed, prosthetic device that is created to help an infected tooth. Dental crowns are also referred to as caps. Once the dental crown is created, it adheres and molds to your existing tooth. This will protect your real tooth from any further damage. If taken care of properly, dental crowns can last a lifetime. Another benefit of dental crowns is that unlike real teeth, they do not stain. Natural teeth can stain from coffee & tea consumption, aging, and more but dental crowns do not.

Who Is A Good Candidate For Dental Crowns?

Someone who has a tooth with a large filling that needs support because there isn’t enough natural tooth structure remaining
To attach a bridge to replace missing teeth
To protect a weak tooth from fracturing
To restore a fractured tooth
To cover a dental implant

What Are Dental Crowns Made From?

Dental crowns were once popularly made from metal, but due to advancements in technology, we can now create them in porcelain. Porcelain dental crowns resemble natural teeth and are more lifelike.

Dental crowns are created to ensure your teeth don't suffer further damage. Our porcelain dental crowns give a more lifelike appearance than metal ones. If you still have any doubts about our dental crowns & the process, don’t hesitate to contact Glenville Smiles today. We proudly serve Schenectady, NY & the surrounding areas.

Is Teeth Whitening Right for You?

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 15:28:27 GMT

Your Questions About Teeth Whitening Answered

If you’ve been considering teeth whitening, you probably have a lot of questions. Why do teeth get discolored in the first place? How can you determine if you’re a candidate for teeth whitening? How can teeth stay white after professional treatment?

We have great news - we have answers to all of those questions! Read below to learn more about this topic and to discover if you might be a candidate for getting a professionally brighter and whiter smile.

Why do teeth discolor?

Before we discuss tooth whitening, it’s important to address why teeth end up discolored in the first place. As we go through life, regular wear and tear naturally dulls our teeth. The process is impossible to avoid completely. However, there are some habits - like smoking - that can speed it up. Your diet also plays a role in how quickly and how badly your teeth discolor; for instance, red wine, coffee and tea, and certain berries can all stain teeth. Not brushing frequently enough will also lead to teeth that aren’t as bright and white as they could be. And finally, certain medications can also lead to tooth discoloration.

Who is a good candidate for professional teeth whitening?

Lots of people are great candidates for having their teeth whitened! Generally, what’s required is that you have healthy, unrestored teeth and healthy gums. We also recommend that patients be over the age of 16. Finally, we require that patients have a full dental checkup and cleaning before discussing teeth whitening - this way, the dentist can catch any issues that should be addressed before teeth whitening, like cavities or gum disease.

How can teeth stay white after treatment?

Once you’ve had your teeth professionally whitened, you’ll want them to stay that way for a long time! While it’s impossible to keep your teeth pristine forever, there are a few steps you can take to keep that bright, healthy smile and make the time between treatments as long as possible:

Stop smoking. Smoking is a huge reason why teeth become discolored in the first place. Kicking the habit will not only help you live a healthier life - you’ll also keep that smile brighter, longer.
Consider changing your diet. Since your diet can play a large role in the color of your teeth, it might be wise to cut back or cut out problematic foods like coffee, tea, and red wine. Of course, some foods that stain your teeth can be good for you in other ways, so carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks before making any final decisions.
Consider changing your medications. This one is tricky and should obviously only be done in consultation with your doctor. But if your medications are staining your teeth, and if having a brilliant smile is important to you, it’s worth asking your doctor if there might be alternatives available.
Brush, floss, and see the dentist regularly! The cleaner and healthier your teeth are, the better they’ll look! Make sure you’re brushing thoroughly twice a day, flossing once a day, and seeing the dentist every six months for optimal oral health.

If you’re considered teeth whitening , remember that the team at Glenville Smiles is here to help! We regularly give patients in Schenectady, NY and the surrounding areas plenty of reason to smile. Call us today to get started.

What to Expect with a Tooth Extraction

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 14:39:16 GMT

Your dental health is very important. That is why you should see a dentist regularly as they will help keep your mouth free from diseases and take the necessary steps to preserve your natural teeth. However, there may be a time in your life where you need a tooth removed. Tooth extractions are usually minor dental procedures, depending on the location of the tooth. A tooth that has one root is easier to remove than impacted wisdom teeth. Teeth that need to be extracted are usually damaged or severely decayed beyond repair or are causing issues with your smile.

Why are Tooth Extractions Necessary?

You may need a tooth extraction for a variety of reasons. Your family dentist will be able to bring attention to any problems that will lead to tooth extractions and advise you on the best course of action. Reasons you may need a tooth extracted include:

Damaged Tooth- Whether you have suffered an injury to your mouth, have repeating tooth decay, or your tooth is beyond repair, it might be best to get your tooth extracted and replace it with a dental implant.
Stubborn Baby Tooth- Your child's baby teeth will fall out on their own, but sometimes there is a stubborn tooth that does not want to fall out. This will need to be extracted so the permanent tooth can pop through.
Impacted Wisdom Tooth- Your dentist will keep an eye on your wisdom teeth to make sure they are growing in such a way as to not disrupt your smile. Sometimes people do not have enough space in their mouth and these teeth will need to be extracted before they cause problems.
Overcrowded Mouth- Sometimes patients need extractions when there is not enough room in their mouth. This is common in patients who need braces, and the orthodontist needs extra room for the teeth to align.

What is Involved?

The extraction process is not very complicated. First, a dentist will take X-rays of your teeth to determine the position of the tooth's roots and the condition of the bone. Your medical history will be assessed to determine if you are healthy enough for the procedure. Sedation dentistry can be used to make you feel more relaxed and calmer during the procedure. There are two types of tooth extraction procedures the dentist may take including:

Simple Extraction- This is completed when there is a simple extraction. A local anesthetic will be used to numb the area around your tooth, so you do not feel any pain during the procedure. An instrument, known as an elevator, is used to loosen the tooth, and then forceps are used to remove the tooth.
Surgical Extraction- If the teeth are impacted, you will most likely need a surgical extraction. With this procedure, patients are given local anesthesia and intravenous anesthesia to make them calm and relaxed. A small incision will be made in the gums and the tooth is gently rocked back and forth to loosen it from the jawbone using forceps. In some cases, bone tissue covering the tooth may need to be removed before the tooth can be extracted.

How to Care for Your Mouth After Tooth Extractions

After a tooth extraction procedure, you may be given antibiotics to make sure infections don't occur. You may want to take some ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory medication to ease any discomfort you may be feeling. Ice packs can be placed on your jaw/cheek to bring down inflammation. You should only eat soft foods until the area is healed and make sure to brush the area carefully. Avoid sucking through a straw, as well as smoking, to prevent dry sockets.

Contact Us

At Glenville Smiles , serving the Schenectady, NY area, our team of highly skilled and experienced professionals will advise you if a tooth extraction is the best procedure for your dental health. Contact our office today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Do I Still Need to Schedule Regular Dental Visits with Dentures?

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 20:42:28 GMT

If you're asking yourself, "do I still need to schedule regular dental visits with dentures?" The answer is "yes, absolutely!"

Dental health doesn't just include your teeth, it also involves your gums, jawbones, and your overall mouth. Whether you wear full or partial dentures, scheduling regular dental cleanings and appointments is crucial for your overall oral health and to ensure your dentures look good.

Why routine dental visits are important when you wear dentures:

People with partial dentures still have to take care of their remaining natural teeth!

Unfortunately, partial dentures can make people more susceptible to cavities because food can easily get caught between the denture and natural teeth. During a cleaning appointment, your dental team can identify any cavities so they can be taken care of quickly and before they cause further damage.

Over time, dentures may need to be adjusted.

The shape of your mouth and teeth can change over time and it is not uncommon to see wear on your dentures from such constant use. Loose or ill-fitting dentures can increase the risk of dental issues like sores and gum disease. Sometimes, ill-fitting dentures can cause a nutritional decrease as people may find it easier not to eat instead of being in pain while they chew.

Regular dental visits help extend the life of your dentures.

Most dentures are made of acrylic, meaning that they are porous. These pores can harbor bacteria and cause other oral health issues. If your dentures need improvements, they can be addressed at your routine dental visit. If properly taken care of, dentures can last upwards of seven to eight years.

Don't forget about your gums!

Older people tend to have low immunity, which means they may have higher levels of bacteria. Some medications can cause dry mouth, which can help bacteria thrive. Routine cleaning, care, and check-ups can help to prevent gum disease from occurring or progressing.

Just like people with all-natural teeth, it is recommended to schedule a dental appointment every six months.

For comprehensive dental care in the Schenectady, NY area, count on Glenville Smiles ! Our team has the knowledge and experience you're looking for in a dental team. We have worked with patients that have all types of dentures and dental implants, and look forward to adding you to our list of happy patients. To schedule an appointment, don't hesitate and contact us today! Please remember to let a member of our friendly staff know that you have full or partial dentures so we can prepare accordingly.

What You Should Know About Root Canals

proadAccountId-421461 — Fri, 13 Nov 2020 16:05:25 GMT

Answers to the Most Commonly Asked Questions About Root Canals

When people consider the most dreaded dental procedures, root canals may be at the top of the list. In reality, root canals aren’t that scary once you know what’s involved with the process. If you need a root canal or think you may need one, please read on to see answers to the most commonly asked questions that we get about root canals.

How does the root canal procedure work & what can I expect?

A root canal is the process by which an infected root canal is removed, and the tooth is cleaned and sealed. The average root canal usually takes around an hour. Some tooth sensitivity can be expected in the days following the procedure.

Are root canals painful? And will I be awake or asleep during the procedure?

Sedation dentistry will ensure you don’t feel pain during the procedure. There are two types of sedation for this procedure which ensure you don’t experience pain during it: conscious (awake) sedation and unconscious (asleep) sedation. The type of sedation you receive will depend on your preferences and needs.

What are signs that my tooth is decayed?

Signs that you have an infected root canal include tender or darkening gums, pain while biting down, and cracked teeth.

How do I know if a root canal is right for me?

If the decay is deep enough, a root canal may be needed, and a dentist will be the best person to make a diagnosis and suggest a treatment.

Find out more about if you are a good candidate for a root canal and the entire process by calling Glenville Smiles . We can help provide the dental services you need in Schenectady, NY and put your mind at ease about root canals, dental veneers, crowns, bridges, implants, and other dental procedures. No matter what you need to maintain your dental health, we are here to help.

Your Child's First Visit to the Dentist

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 20:21:58 GMT

What You Need to Know About Your Child's First Dental Visit

Starting your child's dental care early is beneficial in many ways. Not only do you set your child up for optimal oral health and teaching them the best dental practices, you're also teaching them that the dentist is nothing to fear. When exposed to the dentist and cleaning procedures at an early age, children are more likely to stay on top of their dental health as they get older.

When Should Your Child See a Dentist?

It is recommended that your child see a dentist within six months of their first tooth coming in, or by twelve months of age. The sooner your child visits the dentist for the first time, the better as it will help them build good future oral habits. Remember, it is never too late to start taking your child to the dentist.

How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Visit

If possible, schedule an appointment in the morning or well before your child's afternoon nap so they are awake and alert. If your child is a bit older, explain to them why the dentist is important and what to expect at their appointment. Play "pretend" and walk them through what the dentist will be doing to check their teeth and gums. Build excitement and understanding so they look forward to this new experience.

What to Expect at Their First Appointment

Your child's first dental visit is a generally short appointment and usually involves very little treatment. The first visit gives your child the opportunity to meet the dentist in a friendly way. We aim to make the appointment comfortable for the child so that may mean sitting in their parent's lap for the exam or having the parent wait outside.

During the exam, the dentist will check your child's teeth, gums, bite, and jaw. Sometimes a light cleaning is necessary to remove any build up on the teeth. Education is a main factor of your child's first dental visit, as well. The dentist is able to teach parents about proper oral health care basics for children and address any questions that may arise.

Choosing the Right Children's Dentist

If you're located in or around the Schenectady, NY area, choose Glenville Smiles! Our team has years of knowledge and experience working with kids of all ages. Our children's dentists aim to make the experience fun for your child, so they do not fear visiting us. Of course, we also thoroughly check their teeth and gums to ensure they are growing correctly and teach them the best ways to take care of their smile.

To schedule your child's first appointment with Glenville Smiles, please don't hesitate to contact us today!

Dental Implants: Are They Worth It?

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 16:49:11 GMT

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are seen as the best comprehensive solution to one or several missing teeth. They are a great option for oral health as they offer a foundation for replacement teeth to be placed on. An implant is a synthetic tooth root which is made of titanium and is securely anchored to the jaw to serve as the root for a dental crown. The dental crown or tooth can either be attached permanently or removable. Once placed, the root will not shift within your mouth. With dental implants, the surrounding teeth are also left untouched. Dental implants have a very high success rate and typically last up to 20 years.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

The placement of dental implants often involves two procedures.

The implant is placed within the jawbone and it is given time to heal. It gradually bonds with the jawbone over a few months.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second procedure involves creating the new tooth and connecting the posts, attachments, and any new teeth to the implant.

Are Dental Implants Worth It?

Dental implants offer many benefits. They are considered the safest, most predictable dental procedure and have been used successfully by 3 million Americans for more than 30 years. As many as 500,000 people receive dental implants each year. They are the strongest device available for replacement teeth. Some other benefits include:

Dental implants can stop your teeth from shifting into a gap in your mouth that may be there from lost teeth.
Dental implants can help maintain your appearance by preventing your face from looking sunken in due to jaw deterioration from missing teeth.
Dental implants do not require any additional maintenance. Continue your regular oral hygiene pattern of brushing and flossing.
Dental Implants behave like natural teeth and can completely restore your chewing power.
A missing tooth gap can act as a trap for food and bacteria which can lead to gum disease. Having a dental implant in place can help keep you free of gum disease.

Contact Our Team Today!

If you are dealing with lost or decayed teeth, dental implants can drastically improve the look of your smile. Glenville Smiles offers a variety of options when it comes to dental restoration. Contact our team to learn more about dental implants today. We serve residents of Schenectady, NY & beyond.

Sedation Dentistry: What to Expect

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 18:16:57 GMT

When was the last time you visited the dentist? If you've been putting it off because the thought of having your teeth cleaned fills you with anxiety, you're not alone. Sedation dentistry is becoming ever more widely adopted as a way to help people who fear the dentist's chair get through the treatments they need more easily. Glenville Smiles offers sedation dentistry services for patients in the Schenectady, NY area. Read on to learn more about what to expect going into your sedation dentistry visit.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to relax patients during dental work. This medication can be administered orally through a tablet, as a gas that is inhaled, or intravenously for a quicker effect. While anesthesia is commonly used for serious procedures that require a patient to be completely unconscious, being sedated will technically still leave you awake and, depending on the intensity, somewhere between relaxed yet alert and veering on the edge of sleep. It can used for anything from invasive surgeries to basic check-ups.

What Will You Experience?

For many people, it is the fear of pain that keeps them away from the dentist. Generally, with sedation dentistry you will not feel any pain, and in the rare event that you do notice a sensation, it will likely register as more of a mild discomfort. Rather, you should experience a sense of calm and perhaps feel lightheaded or as if your limbs are heavier. Most patients leave the office with little memory of their treatment. However, if you've undergone a serious procedure that requires recovery time, you will feel pain normally once the sedation wears off as your teeth and gums heal. The major effects of the medication should dissipate in around a half hour, but it can take a full 24 hours for it to completely leave your system.

How Should You Prepare?

In order to avoid potential negative effects of an interaction between the sedative and other medication, you'll want to thoroughly inform your dentist about your health history. Be sure to make them aware of any prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. Unless you are informed otherwise, you should not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before your appointment. Afterwards, however, make sure to re-hydrate by drinking plenty of fluids. Lastly, arrange for someone to drive you to and from your visit, and if your job involves operating heavy machinery, plan to take the rest of the day off.

Contact the Qualified Dentistry Professional's for More Information on Sedation Dentistry

For any additional information about sedation dentistry and whether it is an appropriate option for you, please contact the caring staff at Glenville Smiles today !

The Pros and Cons of Porcelain Veneers

proadAccountId-421461 — Wed, 03 Jun 2020 20:40:28 GMT

Porcelain veneers are a smile-makeover solution, but they are still a medical procedure that has its pros and cons.

Pros of Porcelain Veneers

Natural Looking

Porcelain veneers can be created to match your existing teeth! Because they are both white and translucent, they will reflect light just like your natural teeth do!

Stain Resistant

Stains do not stick to porcelain, essentially making the veneers stain resistant. This means your teeth will stay white, even if you enjoy stain-producing food and drink on a regular basis.

Durable & Long Lasting

Porcelain veneers are very strong and can last 10-20 years, if they are taken care of well! Because they are so long lasting, they are a great solution for brightening your smile or covering imperfect teeth.

Cosmetic Benefits

Porcelain veneers can cover minor orthodontic problems, such as slight gaps in between your teeth. Perhaps their greatest cosmetic benefit involves the appearance of your teeth. Veneers can make them look whiter instantly!

Cons of Porcelain Veneers

Increased Sensitivity

After the procedure, some patients have reported more tooth sensitivity when they eat or drink hot or cold items. Generally, the sensation will fade over time but tooth sensitivity can be uncomfortable and inconvenient.

High Cost

Unfortunately, porcelain veneers can come with a high price tag. The cost depends on the number of teeth you want restored and can vary from dentist to dentist.

Irreversible

Porcelain veneers are permanent because part of the tooth's enamel has to be removed to securely bond the veneer to the tooth. since the dentist is essentially changing the structure of your tooth, it can not be undone.

Interested in getting porcelain veneers? Discuss your needs with the professionals at Glenville Smiles! We will help you find the right solution for your needs, be it porcelain veneers or another procedure. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!