Professional Teeth Whitening: Get the Smile of Your Dreams

February 12, 2019Cosmetic Dentistryin office teeth whitening, professional teeth whitening, teeth whiteningDr. Charles R. Kimes

It’s the dawn of a new year, and what better way to greet the new year than with a smile? While certainly smiling can go a long way in starting 2019 on a positive note, if you are unhappy with your smile or consider it a source of embarrassment, this might be an issue for you.

While it varies from person to person, perhaps the most common issue amongst people pertains to the color of their teeth. Fortunately, much like 2018 such issues with your smile can soon be a thing of the past. In the consistently evolving world of modern cosmetic dentistry, much can be done to remedy this issue and minimize any stains, blemishes, or sighs of aging that your teeth may have incurred.

If you were to imagine your

ideal smile …

What would it look like?

We’re willing to guess that it would be a beautiful, pearly white masterpiece, or what’s sometimes referred to as the “classic Hollywood smile.” While this may seem far-fetched, thanks to our professional teeth whitening service offered here at Overland Park Dentistry, the smile of your dreams may only be an appointment away!

Professional Teeth Whitening: How It’s Done

Although DIY whitening strips and trays can be purchased at local convenience stores, for the safest and most effective results, utilizing a professional teeth whitening service is your best option. This is a very common dental procedure that can be performed by your dentist in approximately 60 minutes, depending on the severity of the staining and will almost certainly produce the desired result.

In preparation for your whitening, a dentist or hygienist will first need to give your teeth a basic cleaning, to remove any bacteria or plaque buildup that may have accumulated around them.

Once cleaned, a hard resin is administered to protect the gums, shortly followed by a hydrogen peroxide gel which is applied to each tooth. The gel remains coated on the teeth for around twenty minuets as the substance bleaches the teeth to a whiter shade while simultaneously diluting any stains or discoloration they have accumulated.

Once the first coat is removed, a second coat of bleaching gel is applied, and the process is repeated once more to maximize the solution’s effectiveness and achieve the best results.

After your professional teeth whitening treatment is fully complete, your teeth may feel tingly and strange; however, this sensation should subside shortly.

Additionally, your dentist may suggest that you temporarily avoid certain food products, as the artificial dyes in some products may hinder the progress. Although you smile will be noticeably whiter after the treatment, you may be required to return for a follow up exam as it will likely take a matter of days for the treatment to take full effect. Upon your next appointment, your dentist will examine the overall effectiveness of the procedure, to determine if any adjustments are to be made or if any future recommendations are necessary.

Professional Teeth Whitening… Start 2019 With A Smile!

It’s the dawn of a new year, and as we said before, what better way to greet the new year than with a smile? Smiling is one of the simplest joys in life and nothing should keep you from smiling in 2019.

So, if pesky stains and blemishes on your teeth have you frowning, our team of specialists at Overland Park Dentistry is here to help! For questions or more information on professional teeth whitening or any of our cosmetic services, please contact our offices and smile brightly in in this new year!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry options for you or your family may have. 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.

SMILE! We have Porcelain Veneer Options for YOU!

January 22, 2019Cosmetic DentistryLumineers, porcelain veneersDr. Charles R. Kimes

Porcelain Veneers: A Brief History

Ever since the dawn of the industry, professional dentistry has sought to provide patients with physical and cosmetic relief, all their inner oral needs, and while largely successful, addressing every patient’s needs always remains a challenge. However, despite offering a variety of different treatments in the restoration and preventative aspects of dentistry, many patients still found themselves unsatisfied with the overall appearance of their smile.

Therefore, to remedy this, the dental industry began developing a new technology with the goal of providing patients with the picturesque smile they desired. Officially dubbed the “Dental Veneer” or “Porcelain Veeners” this new technology was introduced during the 1980’s. In the time since, porcelain veneer options have become a staple within professional dentistry, and today implementing veneers is perhaps one of the most commonly performed practices in cosmetic dentistry!

Porcelain Veneer Options: How Do They Work?

Simplistic by design, porcelain veneers are a clear, shell-like device that was created with the purpose of being worn directly over your upper and lower rows of teeth. This allows the device to act as a something of a rain jacket, helping protect your teeth from hazardous elements, as well as concealing any prior received abrasions or blemishes that your teeth may have.

Related Article: Reasons to Get Porcelain Veneers

This ability to create a seemingly flawless smile has undoubtedly made porcelain veneer options a hot commodity among both the fashion and entertainment industry.

While certainly it’s hard to argue with this kind of success, it’s important to note that porcelain veneers do present certain drawbacks, that one should consider. These drawbacks primarily stem from the re-shaping process in which some of the surface of your teeth is filed down or removed along with the tooth’s enamel. This unfortunately leaves the tooth unprotected and vulnerable to outside elements should the veneers be removed.

Lumineers: A New Era of Porcelain Veneer Options!

Thanks in no small part to the tremendous success of porcelain veneers, Lumineers were implemented as something of a 21^st century option or upgrade. Much like veneers, dental Lumineers retain the thin, transparent appearance of veneers. However, unlike its predecessor, Lumineers do not present any of the aforementioned issues due to the reshaping process and removal of the tooth’s enamel. Due to the much thinner nature of porcelain Lumineers, (generally around the same consistency as a contact lens) removing your tooth’s enamel or reshaping them is no longer required! 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.

See for Yourself!

With the advent of Lumineers, dentists such as Dr. Kimes can provide you with the pristine smile of your dreams, and with the new advancements of Lumineers, the process is easier then ever!

While we hope this information has been helpful to you, if you have any further questions about Lumineers or want to see if they are an option for you, please come see us at Overland Park Dentistry!

Smile Bright with Invisalign Invisible Braces

December 17, 2018Cosmetic Dentistryinvisalign, invisible bracesDr. Charles R. Kimes

Invisalign Invisible Braces: A New Option!

You can tell a lot about a person from their smile; so what does your smile say about you? As perhaps one of the most basic ways of expressing one’s self, a person’s smile, is a central part of one’s personal identity and often something people take pride in. Unfortunately, if there are irregularities or blemishes in a person’s smile, it can also be a source of embarrassment and anxiety and may even affect their self-esteem.

While traditional dental braces have become something of a hallmark among American teenagers to correct misaligned teeth, for adults looking to correct this issue, metal braces may not seem like the ideal solution. However, with the emergence of Invisalign technology, folks in both the U.S. and abroad now have an alternative option in improving the quality of their smile.

Invisalign Invisible Braces: “Invisa what?!”

As arguably the most popular and sought-after treatment in the realm of cosmetic dentistry, the term Invisalign has quickly become synonymous with cosmetic dentistry, often serving as the poster child representing cosmetic dentistry as a whole. Therefore, it should come as little surprise that since its inception, the technology for Invisalign invisible braces has received critical acclaim among both practitioners and patients alike, and only continues to receive praise as time goes on!

What is Invisalign?? And How does it work??

As an alternative to the standard dental braces, Invisalign is a transparent custom-fitted aligner that is designed to straighten and ultimately realign your teeth. The purpose of the Invisalign invisible braces device is not only to improve the aesthetic appearance of your teeth, but also to correct any jaw alignment issues or irregularities, including: underbite, overbite, crossbite, ect. The Invisalign aligners are temporary, interchangeable aligners that are to be changed every two weeks over a period of generally six to eighteen months or more, depending on the patient’s specific needs.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign invisible braces are easily removable aligners and require patients to make relatively few lifestyle changes. Although highly effective, standard metal braces prohibit patients from enjoying certain foods that are particularly hard, crunchy, or chewy, as the food partials may damage or get stuck in the wires or metal brackets.

Invisalign Requirements/Limitations

To receive these coveted custom aligners, your dentist must determine whether you meet the proper candidacy requirements as Invisalign invisible braces have certain restrictions that conventional braces do not. Although Invisalign can assist with realigning a patient’s jaw, in some cases the jaw is simply too misaligned for the aligners themselves to fix, thereby making braces the only option. Another aspect of Invisalign that you might wan to consider is that while easy to remove, there have been instances of aligners getting lost in the past. Due in part to their transparent appearance and small size, aligners may be easy to misplace and ultimately lose, thus delaying progress as well as wasting time and resources.

Related Article: Invisalign Dentist in Overland Park

What’s in a smile?

There is a lot that you can tell about a person from their smile, so what does your smile say about you? If your smile isn’t saying what you want it to, or is causing you embarrassment, then perhaps Invisalign invisible braces is the answer for you! If you have any questions about Invisalign or are interested in trying it for yourself, please contact us at Overland Park Dentistry to schedule an appointment!

Say ‘Cheese’ with Cosmetic Dentistry Options!

November 27, 2018Cosmetic Dentistry, Uncategorizedoverland park dentist, porcelain veneers, teeth whiteningDr. Charles R. Kimes

In an age of social media, iPhones, tablets, and of course selfies galore, certainly you always want to look your best! While this can be achieved through dressing nicely and always being mindful of the latest fashion trends, if your smile fails to meet your expectations, then life in an era of selfies may prove to be a bit challenging. While unfortunately this is the case of some people, such a situation does not have to persist any longer than necessary. As with social media and other new technology, modern cosmetic dentistry has come a long way in recent years and only continues to get better!

Are Cosmetic Dentistry Options for You?

Through a quick Google search of the term “cosmetic dentistry options” you will undoubtedly receive various definitions and results. Indeed, cosmetic dentistry options is something of an umbrella term that generally refers to image-based dental procedures, ultimately seeking to improve the appearance of one’s smile. To put it simply; cosmetic dentistry is like getting a makeover for your smile in order to restore it to its former glory. However, this “smile makeover” is not strictly for appearance purposes, as it also servers to improve your overall oral health and keep your teeth both beautiful and strong.

Cosmetic Dentistry Options and Procedures

Listed below are several procedures that fall under the cosmetic dentistry category, all of which are offered at Overland Park Dentistry and can be made available to you upon your request!

Invisalign:

As a cutting-edge innovation within the field of dentistry, Invisalign is now one of the most sought-after procedures within the industry today! Invisalign aligners are transparent, easily removable, custom-fitted dental aligners that are designed to realign and straighten your teeth and are minimally invasive. The Invisalign procedure requires approximately 6-18 months to complete and offers a much less invasive approach than traditional braces.

Related Article: Invisalign Dentist in Overland Park

Bonding:

Dental bonding is an easy and relatively inexpensive procedure in which a plastic composite resin is applied to a damaged or decayed tooth, ultimately to repair and restore the tooth to its former self. While bonding is generally used to repair chips and cracks in teeth, it can also be done to fill in troublesome gaps and close spaces between teeth.

Teeth Whitening:

As its name implies, tooth whitening is a simple procedure in which the shade of ones’ teeth is exponentially brightened, creating a much more aesthetically pleasing appearance. The purpose of tooth whiting is to reduce any stains, blemishes, or signs of ageing. While basic dental whitening kits have been sold at convenience stores for years, these generic kits have been known to irritate users’ gums and sometimes cause a great deal of discomfort. Therefore, if you desire a brighter, healthier looking smile, its always best to have your teeth professionally whitened!

Porcelain Veneers or Lumineers:

While terms such as porcelain veneers or Lumineers might still be unfamiliar to some, dental veneers have slowly become one of the most sought after and universally praised cosmetic dentistry options for restoring smiles. Appearing as a clear, shell-like device, veneers may not look like much. However, once fitted over your upper and lower rows of teeth, the veneers act as something of a rain jacket, effectively shielding your teeth from any hazardous elements they may encounter. In addition to the widely popular porcelain veneers, dental Lumineers have also recently been made available! Serving as something of a streamlined-upgrade from veneers, lumineers provide the same protection for teeth while eliminating the need for removing the tooth’s enamel or reshaping them.

Related Article: Porcelain Veneers: A hot new arrival

Dr. Kimes: Your Overland Park Cosmetic Dentist!

Born and raised in the greater Overland Park area, it was only natural that upon graduating from dental school at UMKC, that Dr. Kimes opened his practice in Overland Park, a community he knows and loves. Now with thirty plus years of experience and expertise to offer his patients, Dr. Charles Kimes is also a world class dentist with the ability to provide multiple dental services to those in need. While certainly preventative and restorative dentistry is very very important, cosmetic dentistry might just be his favorite!

“My favorite part of what I do is making patients smile” he said. “I’ve had so many people come into my office that have been unhappy with the appearance of their smile or ashamed and embarrassed by how their teeth look, and I love how happy it makes them when we fix that. It’s truly the best feeling in the world!”

Indeed, making people happy is perhaps what cosmetic dentistry is all truly about and there’s no better way to express ones’ happiness than by smiling. So, remember in a world where pictures are constantly being taken (and are always a click away from being uploaded for all to see) don’t let a simple stain or gap between your teeth keep you from smiling! Come see us at Overland Park Dentistry and keep on smiling!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry options for you or your family may have. 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.

Glo Pro Teeth Whitening: “Mirror, Mirror On the Wall”

June 26, 2018Cosmetic DentistryGlo Pro teeth whiteningDr. Charles R. Kimes

If you will, stop reading this article for a moment and go take a moment to look in the mirror. Were you happy with what you saw? If so then perhaps you should consider purchasing a lottery ticket or making a trip to your nearest casino, as clearly luck is on your side! However, if you found yourself nitpicking and scrutinizing every minute detail of your face, fear not as statistics prove that in a day of social media and pictures galore, concern over one’s physical appearance has never been higher. Fortunately, however there is a great new solution that can provide an improvement the centerpiece of your face; your smile, by using Glo-Pro Teeth Whitening!

Related Article: Professional Teeth Whitening Options

One Giant Leap, For Dentistry

In recent years, modern dental technology has grown by leaps and bounds, and improved in ways never imagined.

With numerous new ways to:

Repair and replace missing or damaged teeth
Check for oral diseases
Restore a smile by whitening the patient’s teeth

Keeping up with the consistent influx of new technology and cosmetic dentistry options can certainly be a challenge for today’s dentists.

Although still relatively new, (having only hit the market a few years ago) a groundbreaking new technology for whitening teeth has quickly become one of the most sought-after treatments within the dental profession today. Known as the Guided Light Optic (or GloPro) technology, this revolutionary whitening system is unlike any other to ever produced.

Glo Pro Teeth Whitening: A Triumph Of Cosmetic Dentistry

The Glo Pro teeth whitening kit consists of an illuminating mouthpiece, an attachable replacement control, charging dock, and g-vial refill accessory. To begin use of the Glo Pro technology, the patient must first fully charge the controller, then apply whitening gel to both the top and bottom rows of teeth. Once complete, you are ready to place the illuminated blue mouthpiece in your mouth for the required eight-minute duration. By repeating this three-step process daily, your results will be a smile that is at least 5 shades whiter than previously seen, thus making your smile brighter than ever!

Glo Pro Teeth Whitening vs. Basic Whitening Trays

Although the Glo Pro system is a revolutionary new whitening system that has taken the industry by storm, it is certainly not the first whitening system of all time. Basic over-the-counter whitening trays have been a staple of local pharmacies and convenience stories for many years and will likely continue to be so in the foreseeable future.

While moderately priced and readily available, basic whitening trays have been subject to a considerable amount of criticism by both dental practitioners and patrons for some inadvertent drawbacks and issues presented. Such known issues due to the use of basic whitening trays may include:

Blistering or irritated gums caused by seepage of the bleach solution
Increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Occasional throat irritation and tenderness

Fortunately, with the science behind the Glo Pro teeth whitening system such hazards are no longer present, and the vast improvement to one’s smile by far exceeds that of its predecessor.

Glo Pro Teeth Whitening: Love Your Smile!

With the Glo Pro and other countless advances in dental technology, clearly there is much to smile about, and no reason not to smile brightly. If you find yourself dreading looking in the mirror or shying away from the all too frequent photo op, don’t let a smile be the cause! Come see us at Overland Park Dentistry and see if Glo Pro teeth whitening is the answer you’ve been looking for!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. To schedule your dental appointment or whitening consultation 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.

Porcelain Veneers: A hot new arrival this summer!

May 22, 2018Cosmetic Dentistryporcelain veneersDr. Charles R. Kimes

As the humidity rises and summer of 2018 looms large on the horizon, clearly excitement is in the air. And while the weather might be hot, modern dentistry might be even hotter! Due in no small part to the recent advancements made in dental technology, professional dentistry is on fire right now and the heat only seems to keep on rising! With the continuous buzz and chatter surrounding the new changes in the industry, many questions have arisen regarding improvements that have made to well-known procedures that have come to define the dental field as we know it.

While this does include improvements to standard, commonly preformed practices such as crowns and fillings, whitening procedures, and even entire tooth replacements, perhaps one of the most frequent inquires is that of dental porcelain Veneers. Although initially introduced during the 1980s, dental porcelain veneers have slowly become one of the most sought after and universally praised methods of cosmetic dental restoration among both practitioners and patients alike! Therefore, to meet consumer’s growing demand, the dental industry has given the wildly popular porcelain veneers something of a 21^st century upgrade, thus introducing the all new Lumineers!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes at Overland Park Dentistry has seen this treatment option become more and more popular over the years and can now offer his patients the choice of porcelain veneers or Lumineers to achieve the smile of their dreams.

Porcelain Veneers: “The Lumineers”

(No, not the band!)

Although certainly a cool band with some very catchy songs, the type of Lumineers that we are actually referring to can do some amazing things none the less! Like their predecessors, Lumineers are a clear, shell-like device created with the purpose of being worn directly over your upper and lower rows of teeth. This allows the device to act as a something of a rain jacket, helping protect your teeth from hazardous elements, as well as concealing any prior received abrasions or blemishes that your teeth may have. This ability to create a seemingly flawless smile, is undoubtedly what made porcelain veneers such a sought-after commodity in the past, and what continues to make the new Lumineers the highly coveted item they are today.

However, the advantages of dental Lumineers don’t end there. While similar, Lumineers have a number of different aspects and features that provide the user with an easier, safer, and much more pleasant experience!

Related Article: Reasons to Get Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain Veneers: Lumineers vs. Veneers – Similarities & Differences

While highly similar to dental porcelain veneers, the newly created Lumineers have a striking number of differences from their predecessors that convey their superiority as a product. Ultimately this proves themselves as a worthy successor to the still highly esteemed porcelain veneers.

Similarities:

As corresponding devices with a mutual purpose, Lumineers and porcelain veneers inevitably have much in common in terms of concept and general functionality. Both products are designed to improve the overall appearance of the user’s smile, by shrouding it in a whiter but seemingly natural color tint, while simultaneously concealing any damage or misalignment as achieved through their thin, but durable porcelain material.

Differences:

Despite the obvious similarities, the advantages that Lumineers have over porcelain veneers are unmistakable and can have a significant impact on your teeth. Though efficient, the process of receiving dental veneers can be less then desirable, and if mismanaged or neglected can create problems later on. This is due to the reshaping process, in which some of the surface of your tooth is filed down or removed along with the tooth’s enamel. While this is necessary to prevent excess clutter and maintain the veneer’s natural appearance, should the veneers be removed, the lack of natural enamel will leave the teeth unprotected and vulnerable to outside agents.

For many years, the removal of the tooth’s enamel was considered by experts to be the only major downside of veneers; however, with Lumineers this is no longer an issue!

Due to the much thinner nature of porcelain Lumineers, (generally around the same consistency as a contact lens) removing your tooth’s enamel or reshaping them is no longer required! 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.

Porcelain Veneers: The next big thing!

Although porcelain veneers remain a fan favorite within the realm of cosmetic dentistry, the up and coming porcelain Lumineers are sure to quickly surpass them! By effectively avoiding the short-comings of dental veneers, yet continuing to help patients achieve a beautiful, picture-perfect smile, porcelain Lumineers are sure to make a big splash for this summer, and many more to come!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. To schedule your dental appointment or porcelain veneer consultation 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.

Invisalign Dentist: Technology is Beautiful

April 24, 2018Cosmetic Dentistryinvisalign dentistDr. Charles R. Kimes

The Future Is Now!

As we plunge further in to into what some may refer to as “The Industrial Revolution of the 21^st Century” we find ourselves continuously engrossed in a quagmire of ever-advancing technology. While some may argue that this recent wave of advancement comes at a price, (overuse, dependence and even addiction to various mobile devices) it certainly has its share of benefits as well! Although frequently overshadowed by an expanding array of sleek, cutting edge tablets, iPhones, and other entertainment devices, perhaps the greatest and most significant impact of our recent advancements in technology are the improvements within the medical field.

Dentistry is certainly no exception to this, as improvements within dental technology have essentially revolutionized the dental field, thus allowing the dentists of today to provide their patients with a level of excellence that previously was not thought to be possible. With dynamic new services available within the realms of preventative, restorative and cosmetic dentistry, the dental industry as a whole has experienced a recent resurgence in both popularity and patient satisfaction.

Invisalign Dentist: Cosmetic Dentistry at Its Finest!

While the recent rise in the dental profession is due to the introduction of numerous new forms of treatment, arguably the most popular and sought-after treatment is the new Invisalign technology. It is recommended that you work with an Invisalign Dentist who is certified with this technology. With a name that is quickly becoming synonymous with that of cosmetic dentistry, the Invisalign aligners are transparent, custom fitted, removable dental aligners that realign and straighten your teeth with very little hassle. An Invisalign Dentist will design them and they are to be worn daily over your teeth, the soft but flexible aligners can be easily removed while eating or brushing your teeth, thereby providing quick access and preventing any limitations.

Another praiseworthy aspect is the quick and effective results produced by Invisalign, typically realigning and correcting one’s teeth at a range of 6 to 18 months. This can be attributed to the frequency in which the aligners are to be replaced, as the aligners are to be discarded and replaced with a new one every two weeks, thus constantly adjusting the teeth to a more desirable alignment.

A third and particularly comforting feature of the Invisalign technology is the generally pain-free and stress-free experience by the patient when using them. Due to their noninvasive nature, Invisalign aligners cause little to no discomfort when in use by a patient, (some of which even admit to forgetting they were on!) And additionally, they are often unnoticeable, thereby preventing any anxiety or embarrassment, as sometimes experienced by patients previously.

Invisalign Dentist: A Bright Smile and a Bright Future Await!

As advanced as modern dental technology is today, chances are that it will only continue to be further build upon and improved, and the Invisalign technology is certainly no exception to this! With continuing advancements in technology, the Invisalign treatment will likely only get better in time, thus providing endless future possibilities!

So, if you are unhappy with you current smile or wish your teeth were straighter, come see Dr. Kimes, the Invisalign Dentist, and his friendly staff here at Overland Park Dentistry, and see what today’s dental technology can do for you!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. 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.

Your Overland Park Dentist: Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS

January 30, 2018Cosmetic Dentistryyour Overland Park DentistDr. Charles R. Kimes

Your Overland Park Dentist: Our Story

As both the head practitioner as well as the owner of the practice, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, your Overland Park Dentist, has been the man at the helm of Overland Park Dentistry since its inception, and continues to steer us towards excellence to this day!

From its humble beginnings in 1984, to bringing you the latest in modern day dental technology, Overland Park Dentistry has dedicated itself to providing the residents of the Overland Park area with quality dental care, and putting smiles on patients’ faces. Here at Overland Park Dentistry we take pride in going the extra mile to ensure our patients receive the best care we can provide, while having the most pleasant and of course pain-free experience possible!

Your Overland Park Dentist: Call him “Mr. Fix It”

On August 15^th, 1956, Charles Robert Kimes was born to Karl and Shirley Kimes, two longtime residents of the Kansas City, Mo area. Known as “Chuck” to his friends, from an early age Dr. Kimes learned the value of hard work, as his father Karl ingrained the benefits of “earning one’s keep” and never being afraid to “roll up your sleeves”. This illustrated that hard work is always the key to achieving success. This belief certainly had quite an impact on the young Chuck Kimes, who soon began discovering his knack for repair work; a natural talent that would go on to shape his future in many ways!

From plumbing to roofing, to building go carts, and rebuilding entire car engines! The young Chuck Kimes quickly began building a reputation as the “go to guy” among both friends and family whenever something needed to be built or fixed. With his useful skills and natural ability, obviously there was ample opportunity for Chuck Kimes to pursue multiple avenues of employment in both building and maintenance.

However, due to economic turbulence at the time, a career in either field seemed problematic to the driven young man. Therefore, heeding the advice of his father, Chuck Kimes enrolled at Johnson County Community College upon graduating from high school in 1974.

Your Overland Park Dentist: A Dream Is Born

While the often-monotonous world of academia was certainly not tailor made for the restless Chuck Kimes, upon transferring to the University of Missouri at Kansas City, he found himself drawn towards the allure of professional dentistry. He quickly realized that his hands-on skill set translated very well within the realm of dentistry. Chuck Kimes began pursuing a career in the field, with the dream of one day owning and operating his own dental practice.

After receiving his B.S. in 1979, and through countless hours spent learning and honing his craft, Chuck Kimes was accepted into dental school at UMKC. It was here that he would go on to receive the “Jim Carter Award” for his distinguished service as a member of the Psi Omega National Dental fraternity in 1982, and a special achievement award from the UMKC Dental Alumni Association, commemorating his remarkable contribution to the dental education program.

Your Overland Park Dentist: A Dream Fulfilled

After receiving his D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree) in 1984, from The UMKC School of Dentistry, Dr. Kimes almost immediately sought to strive for his dream of opening his own private practice; a dream that would be realized later that year with the opening of his practice in Downtown Overland Park. Christening his new practice as the appropriately titled; “Overland Park Dentistry”, Dr. Kimes quickly went to work, providing his patients of all ages with the most thorough and highest quality dental care possible.

Related Article: Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park

With his professionalism and underlining care and courteousness, Dr. Kimes eventually amassed a significant number of loyal patients from all over the Kansas and Missouri area. Therefore, to further accommodate his growing number of patients, Dr. Kimes opened a satellite office in Sedalia, MO in 1985, and an additional south Overland Park location in 2004. Today Dr. Charles R. Kimes continues to actively practice dentistry as your Overland Park Dentist, alternating weekly between all three practices, to guarantee that his patients continue to receive nothing short of the most comprehensive dental care possible!

Your Overland Park Dentist: Education and Technology

Dr. Kimes’ love and interest in the technical aspect of dentistry has continued to push him to keep his offices updated with the latest education and technology. He remains a distinguished member of the American Dental Association, the Kansas Dental Association, the Fifth District Dental Society, the Greater Kansas City Dental Society, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Your Overland Park Dentist: Come See Us!

At Overland Park Dentistry, we are truly dedicated to making your smile beautiful! So whether visiting our Overland Park or Sedalia locations, you can rest assured that at Overland Park Dentistry, making you smile is not just our business, but our pleasure as well!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. 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.

Reasons to Get Porcelain Veneers

December 12, 2017Cosmetic Dentistrydental veneers, porcelain veneersDr. Charles R. Kimes

Fashion Trends: They’re Always Changing!

By simply taking a quick glance around you, it’s plain to see that things are always changing. In fact, there is perhaps no better time than that of the holiday season and the new year, to take note of some of the newly emerging fashion, trends and technology as shopping centers everywhere begin plastering their walls and shelves with all the latest gadgets, accessories and apparel, in the hopes of appeasing the continuous flow of holiday shoppers.

In keeping up with the ever changing world of fashion and commerce, one learns to appreciate those few things in life that are timeless and simply never go out of style, one of which would certainly be a beautiful smile. A beautiful and seemingly flawless smile has long been a necessity in the world of both Hollywood and the fashion industry, and although certain styles may come and go, no fashion model or movie star’s look is complete without the ever-present, pearly white smile!

As result of this, public demand for a beautiful smile has remained a top priority for dentists past and present and thanks to amazing innovations in cosmetic dentistry such as porcelain veneers, (which have proven themselves as one of the premier tools within a modern dentist’s arsenal) the achievement of that coveted beautiful smile has never been easier!

Porcelain Veneers: The Rundown

Originally popularized in the 1980s, porcelain veneers have been used in dental restorations for a good number of years now, and have been considered by a large number of dentists to be one of the most effective ways to create a seeming flawless smile for their patients.

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain Veneers, also called dental veneers, are a thin shell-like device designed to be fitted directly over your teeth. The purpose of this is to provide a protective coating to surround your teeth; protecting them from outside elements, while simultaneously covering up any unsightly aberrations or abrasions in your teeth. By providing a solution that is practical and aesthetically pleasing, dental veneers have become a highly popular and sought-after procedure within the realm of cosmetic dentistry, and continue to remain so!

Porcelain Veneers: Six Reasons to Get Them!

The reasons for getting porcelain veneers generally depend on the specific wants and needs of the patient, and certainly no patient is exactly alike.

Listed below are some of the more common reasons that patients elect to receive porcelain veneers. Do some of them apply to you?

(1) Porcelain Veneers: You have broken or damaged teeth

Accidents happen, and perhaps one of the most common reasons you may require porcelain or dental veneers, is that you have through some sort of accident or mishap, and have either chipped, cracked or simply broken a tooth. This can happen to absolutely anyone for all sorts of different reasons, and while there is certainly no way to anticipate the severity of the damage, the porcelain veneer can usually be customized to match the other teeth regardless of the damage.

(2) Porcelain Veneers: You have misaligned or misshapen teeth

While actors such as Steve Buscemi and Gary Busey have made something of a living from their famously odd or crooked teeth, for the majority of people a misshapen smile may present something of an issue in various aspects of life. To remedy this issue, many patients opt for dental or porcelain veneers that can be custom-made to evenly match color, size, and shape of their other teeth.

(3) Porcelain Veneers: You have stained or discolored teeth

It’s not uncommon for people to find themselves unhappy with the color of their teeth, and while there are other (more commonly used) methods such as having your teeth cleaned and whitened, porcelain or dental veneers can be used to achieve a whiter smile as well.

Typically whitening options are suggested prior to implementing porcelain veneers. Unfortunately, if the staining is severe enough, standard cleaning and whitening may not be all that effective. Being the only product capable of providing a truly white smile, porcelain veneers may be used to provide the white smile that the patient desires.

(4) Porcelain Veneers: Your teeth are dull and worn down

It should come as little surprise, that as a person ages, their teeth endure a certain amount of wear and tear over the years. This leads them to become increasingly brittle and less effective. However, porcelain veneers have proven to be a great way to combat this ongoing problem. By encasing the teeth, they provide protection and added strength while chewing food.

(5) Porcelain Veneers: Your teeth have gaps

While not usually serious, having gaps between your teeth can certainly be something of a pain, particularly when eating foods that are sticky or can easily become caught between your teeth. Even though Lauren Hutton and Madonna have famous smiles with gaps in their teeth, a lot of people don’t like those gaps for aesthetic reasons. Dental veneers can be a solution to both of these problems. By covering the teeth, they can simultaneously cover and fill any troublesome gaps that you might have for functional or aesthetic reasons.

(6) Porcelain Veneers: Your smile is causing you stress or embarrassment

There are few things in life more enjoyable than smiling. At Overland Park Dentistry, we believe that everyone deserves to smile and be happy without the persistent fear of embarrassment when they smile. Remember life is too short not to smile, so consider letting porcelain veneers help keep you happy and smiling!

A Beautiful Smile Is Always In Style!

As we prepare for the bombardment of “what’s new” or the “latest” in whatever, we might find ourselves taking the time to appreciate something without all the bells and whistles. As mentioned earlier, a beautiful smile has long been a required feature the fashion and entertainment industry, and not just because it’s beautiful.

If any chips, stains or other issues are keeping you from smiling, then perhaps porcelain veneers are the answer for you. Come see Dr. Charles Kimes at Overland Park Dentistry and his expert team, so we can keep you happy and smiling!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. To schedule your dental appointment and see if you are a candidate for porcelain veneers, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

No More Whitening Trays with Glo Pro Teeth Whitening

November 28, 2017Cosmetic DentistryGlo Pro teeth whitening, whitening traysDr. Charles R. Kimes

Welcome To The Future of Whitening Trays

In recent years, advancements in modern technology are truly something to behold! From smart phones to hands-free personal assistants, (such as Apple’s Siri or Amazon’s Alexa) clearly we as people, have come a long way from the days of throwing stones! As this title wave of technological advancements continues to sweep the globe, we find all sorts of different aspects in our lives transformed in astounding new ways!

While many professions have been affected by the boom in modern technology in varying degrees, there are few professions that have seen more advancements and significant improvements than that of professional dentistry. With numerous new ways to repair damaged teeth, check for diseases such as oral cancer, or create flawless replacements for missing teeth, keeping up with the consistent influx of new technology can certainly be a challenge for today’s dentists.

However, perhaps one of the hottest new brands of cosmetic dental technology has hit the market just recently, and has quickly become a fan-favorite among practitioners and patients alike. Considered the number one highest rated teeth whitening system by practitioners nationwide, the Guided Light Optic technology or “GLO” as it’s commonly known, is a cutting-edge new innovation that has taken dentistry by storm, and many patients smile in the process!

Whitening Trays: Glo What?!

As you can probably imagine, cosmetic dentistry has increasingly become one of the most sought-after dental services in the world today. In an era of daily social media postings, instant access through smart phones, tablets, and of course selfies galore, people today obviously want their smile to look good! In order to meet this demand, basic tooth whitening trays were created and put on the market to provide people with the means to whiten and improve their smile within the convenience and comfort of their own home. The Glo Pro Teeth Whitening System is a method not entirely unlike the use of standard whitening trays; however, as developed through advanced technology and expertise, Glo Pro’s performance can be considered far superior to that of its predecessor.

Originally created and developed by the visionary power couple Dr. Jonathan and Stacy Levine, Glo Pro science is the unique brainchild of two separate professions collaborating to achieve one common goal; a safe and effective way to achieve a beautiful smile. Highly accomplished in both dentistry and prosthodontics, Dr. Levine sought to create a better alternative to the cumbersome and often problematic convenience store whitening products. Enlisting the help of his wife Stacy, (a fifteen-year professional in the beauty retail industry) Dr. Levine created a one of a kind system that has changed the process of whitening teeth in unbelievable ways.

Available exclusively at Overland Park Dentistry and other select dental offices throughout the U.S. the Glo Pro Teeth Whitening Kit consists of a Glo-illuminating mouthpiece, the attachable replacement control, as well as a charging dock, a travel case, and the g—vial refill accessory. By simply charging up the controller, applying the whitening gel to both top and bottom rows teeth, and then placing the blue illuminated mouthpiece in your mouth for a total of eight minutes, you will be well on your way towards a smile at least 5 shades whiter and brighter than before! And … You can Whiten On The GO!

Check out this short video about Glo Pro Teeth Whitening

New vs. Old: How Glo Pro Stacks Up Against Basic Whitening Trays

As mentioned previously, over the counter, take home tooth whitening trays have been available for purchase at local pharmacies and convenience stores across the country for many years. Although relatively cheap and easy to obtain, these simplistic and moderately-priced whitening trays were not without their drawbacks and therefore are not typically recommended by the majority of dentists.

However as recognized by individuals such as Dr. Jonathan and Stacy Levine, the desire for patients to whiten their teeth at their convenience, without having to come in for an appointment every single time, was a genuine concern. And that’s what led to the invention of the Glo Pro Teeth Whitening System.

In addition to providing a happy medium to satisfy both dentists and patients, the Glo Pro science also eliminated some of the hazards and short comings associated with the over the counter whitening trays of the past.

Such known issues due to the use of basic whitening trays may include:

Blistering or irritated gums caused by seepage of the bleach solution
Increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Occasional throat irritation and tenderness

These given drawbacks in addition to the general inconvenience, have often caused consumers to seek out a more professional whitening treatment, to which (and sometimes at the recommendation of their dentist) the Glo Pro Teeth Whitening system is absolutely ideal.

Glo Pro Teeth Whitening: Smile Bright This Holiday Season!

As we enter the holiday season, we find ourselves at a time of year where there’s certainly plenty to smile about! Therefore, in the spirit of the holidays, Overland Park Dentistry will be offering our own in-office whitening special for only $425 (Valued at $631) allowing you to super charge your bright smile experience with the new Glo Pro Teeth Whitening technology that will give you a whiter smile On The GO!

Remember ’tis the season to be jolly, and with the sleek new Glo Pro Whitening System, now you can smile brighter than ever!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. To schedule your dental appointment and Glo Pro Teeth Whitening experience, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.