With 2020 still only a couple months old, we in both the United
States and abroad, find ourselves facing a serious situation as a national
pandemic known as COVID – 19 sweeps across the globe. And at this time, it is
certainly extremely important to take the necessary prevention measures (such
as washing your hands or limiting physical contact with each other) and to keep
abreast of recent developments regarding the matter.
However, for those in need of dental care during this time, you can rest assured in knowing that at Overland Park Dentistry, our offices will remain open and accepting appointments for the foreseeable future, including emergency dental appointments. However, in wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, the American Dental Association has recommended that dentists across the country postpone non-essential dental services until further notice.
If you have visited our website or read some of our previous blog entries, you will know that there are three different types of dental services that we provide at Overland Park Dentistry, these are preventative, restorative, and cosmetic based procedures. While there is a certain degree of overlap between some of the procedures, to reduce any unnecessary health risks for both patents and staff alike, we will only be offering the essential treatments at present time, including emergency dental appointments.
Although we will be temporarily suspending certain services, please remember that if you do require any mandatory treatments, including emergency dental appointments, you will be able to receive the care that you need at our offices. It is important that you do receive the necessary care as oral health problems will worsen if left untreated.
From all of us at Overland Park Dentistry, we would like to
thank you all for your patience and understanding during this unprecedented
situation, and we will be keeping a close eye on the situation as it progresses.
They look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry as well. To schedule your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.
Despite coming into vogue relatively recently, the technology
that would eventually come to be known as dental veneers actually dates back to
the 1930s, in which they were used as a means to temporarily fix the teeth of Hollywood
actors, to create the illusion of a perfect smile. While successful in creating
what’s now known as the classic “Hollywood Smile” the rudimentary technology
could not provide a permanent solution and was not practical for widespread
use.
This changed in 1982 when the modern dental veneer was developed, and in the years that have followed, the veneer technology has only continued to improve thanks to numerous advancements in the dental field, and now is one of the most commonly preformed procedures within the realm of cosmetic dentistry.
What Dental Veneers Do
Although relatively simple, yet highly effective, veneers are a clear, soft, porcelain device that is designed to be sealed over both your upper and lower teeth, creating a sort of protective skin that surrounds the outer layer of your teeth. The purpose is to protect your teeth from hazardous outside elements, while simultaneously concealing any prior received abrasions or blemishes that your teeth may have. Once fully applied veneers are generally unnoticeable, thereby allowing wearer to eat, brush, and live as one normally would, with few (if any) limitations. With this amazing ability to deliver a seemingly flawless smile, there’s little wonder as to why veneers have become so popular among patients from all over the country.
However, despite their obvious benefits, there are a few drawbacks from receiving veneers that are important to keep in mind. The source of these drawbacks is the re-shaping process, which requires the removal of the tooth’s enamel, in addition to filing down the surface of the teeth. While this is necessary for the veneers to be successfully applied to your teeth, if the device is removed, your teeth will be unprotected against outside elements.
Veneers vs. Lumineers: The Difference
As something of an upgraded version of the dental veneers, Lumineers are very similar to veneers in both design and general functionality. Much like veneers, Lumineers are designed to fit over both upper and lower rows of teeth, thereby shielding them from troublesome food particles while shrouding it in a whiter but seemingly natural color tint that greatly improves the smile’s overall appearance. However, what truly gives Lumineers a distinct advantage over their predecessor, is that due to their much thinner nature. Lumineers can be applied to your teeth as they are without reshaping or removing the tooth’s enamel! By eliminating the invasive reshaping process, Lumineers not only provide a quicker, easier solution, but also succeed in preventing any issues in the long run.
As mentioned earlier, although they were once only able to create the temporary illusion of a picturesque smile, thanks to modern dental technology dental veneers can actually deliver a smile that is both beautiful and permanent, and with the recent arrival of Lumineers, the process of receiving the smile of your dreams is now easier than ever!
If you are interested in receiving Lumineers, or have any
questions about the procedure, please contact our offices at Overland Park
Dentistry to schedule your consultation.
Local
dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes,
DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having
the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule
your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland
Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913)
341-2380.
During our current National Emergency concerning the
COVID-19 virus, we would like to assure you that at the offices of Overland
Park Dentistry, your health, safety and well-being is our highest priority.
We will remain open for all treatment & services,
including preventative wellness visits.
You can feel safe knowing that all our clinical areas are,
and always have been, treated with standards that far exceed all state and
federal guidelines. Our team is highly trained annually, using guidelines set
forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Our
training, coupled with our commitment to the highest standards of care, will
see us through this unusual time calmly and successfully.
In addition, you can feel confident that we are taking the
following precautionary measures in the common areas:
We will be increasing the frequency of disinfecting all door handles, reception area surfaces, furniture, credit card terminals, restrooms and more.
We have removed all shared magazines and newspapers.
Remember, all New Patient Forms are available on our website to print & complete at home, before your appointment.
All non-essential items at the check-out desks such as pens, business cards and candies will be removed from the counter and still available by request.
We are counting on you to help us get through this as
well. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, or if you, or someone you have
been in contact with, have traveled out of the country in the last 21 days,
please call our office at 913-647-8700 to discuss rescheduling your
appointment. (There will NOT be appointment cancellation charges at this time.)
Please know that we are closely monitoring the evolving
situation and are following all CDC and ADA guidelines.
Confidence is something that people from all walks of life should have. Whether you’re a hardworking professional managing the rigors of the business world, or a blossoming teenager navigating through those formative (and sometimes tedious) high school years, learning to carry one’s self with confidence is a skill that everyone can benefit from. However, there are numerous obstacles in life that can hurt or be a hindrance to your confidence, and if you are self-conscious about your smile, this can certainly be an issue. We can help you smile with Invisalign!
Smile with Invisalign
Sadly, according to a recent survey conducted by the American Association of Orthodontists, approximately one-third of the U.S. population today report being unhappy with their smile, with many people saying that their smile would be the first thing that they would that they would like to change about their appearance. With such staggering statistics, it’s clear that a person’s smile can have a major positive or negative impact on their confidence, and with so many new innovations in dental technology, there’s simply no reason for your smile to bring you down!
Therefore, at Overland Park Dentistry, we have introduced a fantastic
new technology to our patients known as Invisalign. As an alternative to traditional braces that
has allowed us to restore the smiles of patients of all ages and helped them
regain their confidence!
Invisalign comes in the form of thin, removable, transparent
aligners that are customized to fit over your teeth. These soft, but resilient aligners
are designed to be worn on a daily basis, and only to be removed when eating or
brushing your teeth. Each aligner is to be worn approximately one to two weeks,
after which being discarded and replaced with a new one, thus consistently
adjusting and realigning the patient’s teeth. The realignment process in its
entirety can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months depending on each individual case
and requires the user to make relatively few changes to their daily habits. Due
to their transparency, minimally invasive nature, and of course overall
effectiveness, Invisalign is an ideal solution for those who are eager to
straighten their teeth, but self-conscious about doing so as Invisalign can
effectively improve your smile while remaining virtually unnoticeable.
In contrast to the newly introduced Invisalign, standard
metal braces have been used for many years, and have been well established as the
primary method to straighten one’s teeth and correct their jaw alignment. However,
while sturdy and effective, the downside of braces is the fact that they do
require an extra amount of care and unfortunately, they will require you to
avoid certain food products. Food items such as popcorn, hard fruits, hard
candy, chewing gum, and corn on the cob, are all products that you are
recommended not to eat while wearing braces, as they are likely to compromise
the brace’s structure or get caught between the metal brackets or wires. Additionally,
other less than desirable aspects of braces is the relative discomfort that
users sometimes experience while wearing the devices, as well as their
appearance causing occasional social anxiety. As mentioned previously, these
key differences from braces are perhaps what has led to the recent surge in
Invisalign’s popularity, and while Invisalign isn’t right for everyone, it has
provided an ideal solution for many.
Restore Your Confidence With Invisalign!
At Overland Park Dentistry, we believe that a healthy dose of confidence is something that everyone deserves to have, and if your smile is hurting your confidence, then you owe it to yourself to change that! In addition to the highly sought after Invisalign technology, at Overland Park Dentistry we offer a multitude of different cosmetic, restorative, and preventive based treatments to keep your smile confident and healthy for many years to come! We can help you smile with Invisalign!
Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having
the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule
your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland
Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913)
341-2380.
February is National Childrens Dental Health Month and we want to celebrate the benefits of building healthy habits when kiddos are small that will last a lifetime. That’s why the American Dental Association chose to focus on this particular topic … to bring together thousands of dedicated dental professionals, healthcare providers, and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers, teachers and many others. What’s interesting is that so many of the oral hygiene tips we give to adults should also be followed by children.
Your
teeth are truly an amazing part of your body, and as beautiful as those pearly
whites of yours can be, they are extremely important as well. Being responsible
for breaking down food for consumption, obviously your teeth play a vital role
in daily life. However, with such an important purpose, the hazards your teeth
face on a regular basis are countless.
Indeed,
your teeth are very tough, the constant wear and tear they endure is bound to
take its toll. Additionally, if your teeth are improperly cared for or
neglected, this could spell disaster for your teeth in a variety of different
ways!
First, let’s review the importance of oral hygiene.
Daily Oral Hygiene
It’s
important for our littles to see us leading the way and setting an example. They
pick up on our good habits AND our bad habits, that’s why oral hygiene is so
important.
It can be way too easy to get into the habit of poor oral hygiene and you could be setting yourself up for unavoidable dental health issues.
Sadly,
this has been the case for many people, as progressive diseases such as tooth
decay and gum disease typically manifest slowly over several years, and rarely
display any obvious symptoms until their latter stages.
Unfortunately,
if these conditions have progressed to an advanced stage, the damage at that
point may be irreversible.
Poor Oral Hygiene: The
Consequences
Tooth
Decay
Tooth
decay is a condition in which harmful acidic particles build up in a person’s
mouth over a prolonged period, slowly eroding the tooth’s protective outer
layer and rendering it vulnerable. Unprotected, bacteria descend upon the tooth
causing it to rapidly decay. Once a tooth has fallen into a state of decay, you
are likely to experience increased tooth sensitivity, as well as the appearance
of cavities and eventual breakage.
While not all of the symptoms listed here are definitive signs of tooth decay, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we recommend you contact your dental practitioner to receive a formal checkup.
Unexplained toothaches or spontaneous tooth sensitivity
Moderate to severe pain while consuming hot/cold foods or drinks
Visible holes, stains, or crevices on a tooth’s surface
Chronic foul breath (Read more here about how to stop bad breath)
Alterations in bite or difficulty while chewing
Discoloration of tooth and surrounding gum line
Gum Disease
Although
gum disease is a relatively familiar term to many people, the condition is
often misunderstood and simply written off as little more than a minor
nuisance. However, the truth is that gum disease is an infection of the gum
tissue caused by excess plaque/bacteria build up around the teeth and gumline.
When the gum tissue has become infected, inflammation of tissue surrounding the
teeth will occur. Your gums may bleed while eating or brushing, this is often a
tell-tale sign of gingivitis, or an early stage of gum disease.
Once
gingivitis has been detected, we highly recommend that you visit your dentist
(if you haven’t already) and begin taking a proactive role in treating the
condition before it can spread any further. If the infection is allowed to
progress further, it will continue to spread throughout the mouth, eventually
affecting the teeth and jawbone. This is what’s known as periodontitis or
periodontal disease, which is a later stage of gum disease, and unquestionably
when the disease is at its worst.
Periodontal disease causes irreversible damage to the mouth and may destroy the entire jaw if severe enough. Perhaps most troubling of all is periodontal disease’s tendency to spread to other regions of the body or interact with other preexisting conditions, which could pose serious problems not only to your dental health, but your overall health!
While
tooth decay and gum disease may not sound all that scary at first, the
complications of either condition can truly be a nightmare! As alluded to
earlier, if the bacteria produced by either condition enters the bloodstream it
may likely travel to other areas of the body, spreading and worsening the infection.
If
the infectious bacteria reach the heart, it will inflame the heart’s vessels,
resulting in the formation of numerous blood clots. These blood clots will
slowly begin to cut off the flow of blood, thereby choking the heart and
forcing it to pump faster while producing less and less efficiently.
As
a result of this, individuals suffering from severe tooth decay or periodontal
disease, (or both) have a three times higher likelihood of suffering a heart
attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular-based complications. Additionally,
tooth decay and more particularly gum disease, can also lead to the worsening
of other chronic illnesses such as diabetes, or various types of cancer, which
is likely to have serious if not fatal results.
Common
Dental Problems
Although some of the most common dental problems are not exactly terms that are unfamiliar, the resulting ramifications of such dental health issues can have devastating effects on not just your oral health, but your general health as well.
Of course, we’ve already discussed the dangers of tooth decay and gum disease, listed below are some of the most common dental problems and health issues affecting patients today.
Foul
Breath:
The condition known as halitosis or bad breath can certainly be the cause of social anxiety or embarrassment, however if this remains a persistent problem, there is likely an additional oral issue to blame. Chronic foul breath can be indicative of numerous issues such as cavities, dry mouth, gum disease, buildup on tongue, or even oral cancer. Read more about how to stop bad breath.
Toothaches:
Like foul breath, toothaches or tooth sensitivity can be a tell-tale sign that there may be additional dental health problems that perhaps have not been addressed. Tooth sensitivity may indicate undetected damage (such as cracks, chips or abscesses) or even the early symptoms of tooth decay. Regardless, if chronic toothaches are ignored, they are only likely to worsen over time.
Oral
Cancer:
Oral cancer is an extremely aggressive type of cancer that is responsible for approximately 9,750 annual deaths in the U.S. alone, and remains a major health issue nationwide. While treatable in its early stages, if allowed to spread, oral cancer may not be able to be stopped, thereby having potentially fatal consequences. Read more about oral cancer screenings and how they can save your life, here.
You may not know that these common dental problems can lead to additional health problems. Read more about additional consequences of poor oral health here.
Risk
Factors
These dental health issues obviously pose some serious problems – not only for adults, but for children as well – however, by recognizing the various triggers or risk factors of some of these common dental problems, you may allow yourself to take the necessary precautionary measures to prevent such issues before they occur.
Improper Oral Hygiene: While this may seem like a given, unfortunately it can be very easy to fall into poor oral hygiene habits, and while this may not seem like a big deal, obviously it dose put you at a higher risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease and other related complications.
Dietary Habits: It’s certainly okay to enjoy the occasional treat, however if sugary drinks and snacks are a part of your daily diet, then you might consider cutting back on the sweets. Excess sugar can cause a number of alarming dental health concerns and oral problems are certainly no exception. If reeling in your sweet tooth is an issue, then it is essential that you practice proper oral hygiene.
Smoking/Tobacco Use: As you probably realize, excess tobacco use can be catastrophic on one’s oral health, and cigarette smoke is often the culprit of this. Tooth decay, gum disease, and of course oral cancer can all be caused by smoking, and the likelihood of tobacco users developing any of these issues is exponentially higher than that of nonusers. If you are a regular tobacco user, we strongly encourage you to seek professional counseling and to consider quitting. There’s also a new trend on the rise, vaping. Read more about the dangers of vaping.
Infrequent Checkups: As a rule of thumb, most dentists agree that a dental appointment every six months is the best course of action, effectively resulting in two appointments per year. It’s important to remember that your dentist is trained to not only take care of your teeth, but also to recognize the signs of any additional health issues (both oral and otherwise). By not giving your dentist the time to give you a proper examination, you are preventing your dentist from detecting any health problems and allowing dental health issues to progress and worsen.
Prevention
When
it comes to issues such as tooth decay and gum disease, prevention is always
the best route, therefore Dr. Kimes and his staff at Overland Park Dentistry
are more than happy to provide you with the best guidance and treatment to
address all your oral hygienic concerns or needs.
However, despite the various quality services that are available, it’s important to remember that the determining factor between good oral health and poor oral health always comes back basic oral hygiene. By taking the time to make sure you are correctly brushing, flossing, and caring for your teeth daily you are taking a crucial step in preventing dental health issues before they occur.
Remember
consistency is key! By taking a few extra minutes each day to ensure you’re
practicing proper oral hygiene and incorporating this into your daily routine
until it becomes a habit, in sense you are acting as your own daily dentist!
However, while daily hygienic consistency is in your hands, you should still
make a point to schedule a routine dental checkup twice a year to make sure
that your hygiene efforts are paying off and your teeth are strong and healthy.
Remember,
although taking a few minutes each day to correctly care for your teeth may
just seem like a little thing, sometimes the little things can make a very big
difference!
Local dentist, Dr. Charles R.
Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park
Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity
to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To
schedule your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at
our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park
office at (913) 341-2380.
This month we’re going to feature a Guest Blog from one of our patients, Karen Russell. Recently, Karen needed a new crown on one of her molars and she was so impressed with her new CEREC Crown experience, she did a blog for us!
I Received a New Crown in One Appointment at Overland Park Dentistry
Dr. Charles Kimes at Overland Park Dentistry has been my dentist as long as I’ve lived in Kansas City, for over 22 years! I’ve always referred everyone I know to him and that was BEFORE this incredible experience! Here’s what happened…
During a recent visit for my 6-month dental exam, Dr. Kimes scheduled a follow-up appointment for me to get a new crown.
What I didn’t know, was that I would walk out of his office – after that ONE appointment – with my new crown!! In the past, getting a new crown always took several appointments that included goopy impressions, a temporary crown and waiting for my new crown to be made and delivered from the lab. THEN, at another appointment, my new crown would be placed.
I had NO IDEA that this time would be different! I had NO IDEA that the technology that Dr. Kimes offers is SO ADVANCED that my new crown would be made at his office, while I waited and placed IMMEDIATELY thanks to CEREC technology! Check out my CEREC Crown Experience…
Step 1: It’s ALL DIGITAL
By using an intra-oral camera, all the measurements were taken with a digital impression (not a goopy one) to accurately pinpoint the precise dimensions of my tooth and make an almost perfect replica of my natural tooth.
Step 2: It’s REALLY FAST
My new CEREC crown was made while I watched! Check out these videos of the process – it took less than 5 minutes!!
Step 3: It’s a PERFECT FIT
My new crown was permanently placed over my natural tooth and is virtually unnoticeable, because it was customized to match the exact shade of my teeth!
Step 4: It’s DONE
I was out the door and able to resume my day! The best part is … I don’t have to go back for any follow up appointments to get it finished!
Of course, there are a lot more details that go into this process from a dental perspective. But, from a patient perspective … It was simple, fast and done in ONE appointment!!
Thanks, Dr. Kimes AND Team for always taking such incredible care of my teeth!
See You Soon! Karen
The Details…
Karen mentioned some
additional details … she’s right! There are a lot more details we could share
about the technology of the CEREC same-day crowns that offer as a dental restoration
treatment at our office.
Whether you want to
enhance your smile, restore your smile or just need a dental exam and cleaning,
Overland Park Dentistry can help! Just give us a call to schedule your
appointment.
Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having
the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule
your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland
Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913)
341-2380.
In 1513, noted Spanish conquistador and explorer, Ponce de
Leon, set out in search of a mystical spring known as the “Fountain of Youth”
and while he was successful in discovering what we now know as the state of Florida,
the quest in discovering a way to reverse one’s age, still continues to this
day. Unlike Ponce de Leon however, the dental industry has discovered a way to reverse
the appearance of aging in teeth, and for years has been restoring the smiles
of patients of all ages with this method!
Known as Teeth Whitening, the process is considered one of the primary
components of modern cosmetic dentistry and remains a highly sought-after
treatment amongst our patients at Overland Park Dentistry.
Teeth Whitening In A Nutshell
A tooth whitening is a strictly cosmetic-based procedure and,
in a nutshell, could be summed up as more of a bleaching process rather than a recoloration.
As a person ages, their teeth will inevitably accumulate a certain number of
nicks and blemishes, due to the amount wear and tear that they sustain over the
years. To remedy this, a professional whitening treatment is administered, in
which your dentist applies a bleaching agent to the surface of your teeth. This
process typically lasts approximately thirty minutes and for best results, may
require a follow up appointment.
However, due to the growing demand for a pearly white
picturesque smile, there are always many questions surrounding the whitening procedure
that Dr. Kimes and his team address on a regular basis. In this article, we
have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions and concerns
surrounding this treatment as we address these questions and provide a little
more insight into the process.
Teeth Whitening FAQ: Commonly Asked Questions
Q: Is whitening your teeth safe?
A: If preformed by or under the guidance of a professional dentist, then yes, a whitening is a safe and relatively painless procedure that will produce a whiter and more attractive smile. However, over the counter (OTC) whitening products are generally not recommended by dental practitioners and have been known to cause problems amongst users in the past.
A: The longevity of a whitening treatment may potentially last for a couple of
years, however this varies depending on your lifestyle. If you are a daily
smoker or do not practice proper oral hygiene habits, your newly whitened teeth
can begin to fade in as little as a month. If you are a healthy nonsmoker who
maintains their dental hygiene, you will probably not require another whitening
treatment for a few years.
Q: Are there other ways to whiten my teeth besides a
professional whitening?
A: Yes.
However as mentioned earlier, the alternative to a professional tooth whitening
comes in the form of name brand whitening or strips, that are not recommended
by dental practitioners and have resulted in users suffering blistering or
bleeding gums. Additionally, OTC whitening products are not nearly as effective
as professional grade ingredients, which are required to have received the ADA
Seal of Acceptance prior to being used in a professional capacity.
Q: Will insurance cover the cost of my teeth whitening?
A: Unfortunately, they do not. While certainly many insurance providers offer a
number of great dental benefits, because a professional whitening is a cosmetic
based procedure, they do not provide coverage for dental whitening treatments.
Q: Do professional whitening products damage tooth enamel?
A: Absolutely not! Professional whiting products have no harmful effects on tooth
enamel, nor should they have any adverse effects on a tooth’s nerves or hinder
any pre-existing dental restorations.
Q:Is there anything I can do to maintain my newly whitened smile?
A: Yes! To maintain or elongate the affects there are a number of things that you
can do. Practicing proper oral hygiene habits, as well as brushing after every
meal (especially after consuming sugary or acidic foods) can play a major role to
help prolong the whitening affects. Additionally, avoiding acidic beverages or
using a straw while consuming them will help keep the hazardous products from
staining your teeth, and certainly it’s recommended to avoid tobacco use.
Restore Your Smile!
At Overland Park Dentistry, our team takes great pride in their ability to put smiles on the faces of our patients, and they can certainly do the same for you! If your beautiful smile has suffered from the affects of aging or stains, come see us at Overland Park Dentistry and let’s restore your smile together!
Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes,
DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having
the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule
your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland
Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913)
341-2380.
As you probably realize, your teeth play a vital role in your daily life both in a practical and aesthetic sense. While a person’s natural teeth are certainly strong and durable, in time teeth will age and may slowly begin to deteriorate if they’re not cared for properly.
While this may seem far-fetched, falling into poor dental hygiene habits can be very easy to do and a very difficult habit to break; unfortunately, when this happens, it’s a slippery slope from there. Although the prospect of losing one tooth might not seem like that big of a deal remember, if one tooth is lost then others are likely to follow, as well as a barrage of additional oral health problems, such as Periodontal disease. Read why oral hygiene is such a big deal HERE.
Don’t forget that your lack of oral hygiene can also lead to other disease in your body. Check out one of our previous blogs about The Consequences of Poor Oral Health.
Therefore, if you have one missing tooth or several, we
strongly recommend that you seek treatment and consider tooth replacement
options before things get any worse!
Three Options for Tooth Replacement to Consider
There are three primary options for replacing missing or
damaged teeth. While each option can certainly provide a great solution in the correct
circumstances, your dentist will certainly have the expertise to determine
which of these options is best for you. Keep in mind, while all three of these
options are considered separate procedures, it is not uncommon for two or more
these procedures to be utilized and combined, depending on a patient’s specific
needs.
Options for Tooth Replacement: Full Denture
It’s certainly no secret that dentures are stereo typically associated with the elderly, but are one of the first options for tooth replacement that come to mind. While the word “denture” doesn’t necessarily elicit the most positive reaction, trust us when we say that dentures are not exactly what they are perceived to be. Unlike the cumbersome, ill-fitting dentures of yesteryear, the modern full or complete denture is generally comprised of acrylic material and is customized to be fitted firmly and seamlessly to your upper and or lower jaws. As one could expect, the full denture is designed for individuals who have lost the majority of their natural teeth, thereby requiring extensive replacements.
Options for Tooth Replacement: Removable Partial Denture
Contrasting with the afore mentioned full set of dentures, a removable partial denture (RPD) or half denture is a plate-like device that is designed to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. Economically friendly and easy to maintain, the RPD is fitted to attach to your natural tooth or dental implant (see below) and can be easily adjusted to maximize its effectiveness. While the RPD remains the most widespread partial denture used, a fixed partial denture or fixed bridge may also be employed if the patient desires. Similar to the fixed bridge, the fixed partial denture cannot be removed, thus better resembling the look and feel of natural teeth making it one of the go-to options for tooth replacement.
As perhaps the most popular and sought-after of all options for tooth replacement on this list, modern dental implants have recently caught fire among the general public and continue to receive critical acclaim among the dental community. Acting as an artificial tooth root, a dental implant is fitted within your jawbone, thus creating a base for the crown to be held in place. These screw-like devices are attached to the crown via a connector and can be designed to support the crown, ultimately resulting in a sturdy replacement that looks and functions like a natural tooth! In addition to replacing a single tooth, dental implants can work in conjunction with the fixed partial dentures mentioned previously, if there isn’t a natural tooth present to support the device.
Although it might not seem like THAT big of a deal, missing
teeth and related oral health problems are not something to sleep on! Much like
falling dominoes, if you lose one tooth others are much more likely to follow,
so please consider these tooth replacement options, and come see Dr. Kimes and
his team at Overland Park Dentistry before its too late!
Local
dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having
the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule
your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland
Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913)
341-2380.
The Holidays are here at last, and while the weather outside may
be cold, with the warm embrace of loved ones all around you, and that warm wave
of nostalgia washing over you, it’s hard not to smile during the holiday
season! However, if you are self-conscious of your smile or even consider it a
source of embarrassment, then the prospect of such a scenario may cause a
certain degree of anxiety this time of year.
Fortunately, at Overland Park Dentistry, Dr. Kimes and his team of experts are more than happy to help you in this predicament, by providing you with all the state-of-the-art cosmetic dentistry choices for treatments and technology needed to keep you smiling brightly this holiday season!
Cosmetic Dentistry Choices: ‘Tis The Season for Four Fabulous Options
Since the dawn of the 21st Century, cosmetic dentistry has undergone a radical transformation, thus becoming one of the most sought-after types of treatment within the realm of professional dentistry. This recent surge in popularity is the result of numerous advancements in dental technology, ultimately making the various tried and true cosmetic choices more effective than ever before!
Teeth Whitening:
Teeth whitening treatments are simple, yet effective cosmetic dentistry choices that for many years, has been providing patients from all walks of life, with the picturesque smile of their dreams! Generally lasting little more than 30 minutes, the whitening affect is achieved by applying a bleaching agent directly to the surface of your teeth. This serves to effectively reverse the signs of aging, for a cleaner, sleeker-looking smile than previously seen.
For the past thirty years, porcelain veneers have been
utilized for realigning teeth that are crooked and repairing teeth that have
sustained damage. Acting as something similar to a rain jacket, the translucent
material encases your teeth, thereby protecting them from outside elements, while simultaneously concealing any gaps
or abrasions.
Read more about the difference between Porcelain Veneers and the new technology of Lumineers that are offered at Overland Park Dentistry HERE. Or six reasons you may need to get Porcelain Veneers.
Dental Bonding:
Despite the recent improvements to the ever-popular porcelain veneers, in some scenarios a dental bonding procedure (or filling) is the best solution to restore a tooth. Dental bonding, is a simple procedure in which a composite resin is applied to the damaged area, essentially filling in the area that was broken away. Bonding is used primarily for minor/cosmetic corrections and is generally not recommended for repairing major damage.
Invisalign Invisible Braces:
While traditional metal braces continue to enhance the smiles of teens everywhere, a newer and much more convenient alternative has emerged under the umbrella of cosmetic dentistry choices, known as Invisalign. Invisalign aligners are transparent, thermoplastic aligners that are designed to straighten teeth and correct any jaw alignment issues or irregularities. Supremely popular amongst middle-aged to young adults, the Invisalign aligners are easily removable, require patients to make relatively few (if any) lifestyle changes, and are virtually unnoticeable.
As we descend further into the final weeks of 2019, it’s
important to remember that any unused benefits that you may have from your
insurance provider, will not carry over from one year to the next. Don’t forget
that booking a dental appointment prior to the New Year becomes increasingly
more and more difficult. Therefore, if your holiday wish is to smile brightly
this season then don’t wait, December appointments are going fast so make yours
now, and greet the holidays with a smile!
Local
dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having
the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule
your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland
Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913)
341-2380.
As the days grow shorter and the weather grows colder, we enter the final months of 2019, and while the end of the year may be drawing near, things are as busy as ever! With the forecast of a potentially harsh winter, and the holiday season still ahead, a dental appointment is probably the last thing on your mind. While this certainly an understandable oversight, it can in fact be a costly one as dental insurance benefits do not carry over from one year to the next and any unused benefits are lost. Unfortunately, this is an all too common occurrence and at Overland Park Dentistry, it’s important to us that you are able to maximize dental insurance benefits. By utilizing your remaining insurance benefits before the end of the year, you will have the opportunity to give your smile some much needed attention, without spending more than necessary.
Routine Procedures
As we’ve discussed in previous blogs, the key to sustaining
one’s oral health is prevention, and at Overland Park Dentistry we generally
encourage patients to adhere to what we call “the six-month rule.” The
six-month rule refers to the six-month time period one appointment to the next,
ultimately resulting in two annual appointments per year. This sentiment is
echoed by the coverage plans of many major insurance providers including; Aetna,
Cigna, Delta, Guardian, Humana, MetLife and United Healthcare, all of which are
accepted at Overland Park Dentistry along with the necessary forms and
paperwork, which can be made available upon your request.
Unfortunately, insurance benefits of dental insurance plans do not last forever, and if your teeth have sustained damage or decay, you will require a specialized type of treatment to correct the problem. While certainly the type of treatment varies depending on the degree of damage sustained, advanced procedures such as implants, bonding, or crowns, often require multiple appointments to complete. At Overland Park Dentistry, we are more than happy to assist you in finding a solution that best allows you to maximize dental insurance benefits while receiving the treatment needed; however, the window of opportunity for 2019 is closing fast!
Insurance Benefits: A Terrible Thing to Waste!
2020 is just around the corner, and the time to act is now! Therefore, if you have yet to use all of your provider’s benefits and are suffering from any sort of oral health issues, we highly recommend that you schedule an appointment as soon as possible!
Remember, while those lingering unused insurance benefits
might not seem like a big deal to you, they are a big deal to your teeth! And
although it still seems far away, once the ball drops on December 31st,
those unused benefits are gone forever! So, if you have remining benefits on
your insurance plan, please use them, trust us… your teeth will thank you for
it!
Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes,
DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having
the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule
your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland
Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913)
341-2380.
Overland Park Dentistry
Even though going to the dentist is one of my least favorite things to do, my experience with Dr. Kimes have always been good. They are both very kind and considerate and try to treat you as painlessly as possible.
- Sally M., Olathe, KS
Overland Park Dentistry
Even though going to the dentist is one of my least favorite things to do, my experience with Dr. Kimes have always been good. They are both very kind and considerate and try to treat you as painlessly as possible.
- Sally M., Olathe, KS
Overland Park Dentistry
The staff is always professional and knowledgeable. Dr. Kimes laid out our plans for treatment and got me started on something to handle the pain. Thank You...
- Mary Jo M.
Overland Park Dentistry
Still coming back after many years. Things must be "doing good". Can't think of anything I'd change.
- Warren M.
Overland Park Dentistry
Erica, Amy and Dr. Kimes are so amazing. They have made my visits so easy and comfortable. Thanks for making me smile!
- Antonia F.
Overland Park Dentistry
I absolutely love your office. I never in my life thought I would enjoy visiting a dentist but I do. Thank you for such awesome personal service! I recommend Dr Kimes and the office to anyone looking for a dentist.
- Shelley K.
Overland Park Dentistry
Thank you for your excellent work - everyone in the office is great!
- Jan K.
Overland Park Dentistry
There are good reasons why Cindy and I have been with your dental practice for so long---professional excellence, personal attention and friendliness of your staff come to mind.
- Robert K.
Overland Park Dentistry
The dental hygienist spent a lot of time to properly educating me about how to best floss and overcome tooth sensitivity.
- Laura F.
Overland Park Dentistry
I never dreamed I wouldn't mind going to the Dentist. :) Dr Kimes is amazing and Kay is the best hygienist in the world
- Gisele S.
Overland Park Dentistry
Always treated well. Still coming back after all these years.
