Dental Implant Procedure: New & Improved

August 28, 2018Restorative Dentistrydental implant procedure, dental implants, tooth replacement optionsDr. Charles R. Kimes

Where’s the Tooth Fairy when you need her?

When reflecting on childhood memories, one might fondly remember losing those first few baby teeth. Surly the excitement and anticipation of a visit from the Tooth Fairy, and of course the promise of receiving that oh so precious reward under their pillow the next day is enough to put a huge smile on any child’s face! However, as time goes by and we grow into adults, much like Santa and the Easter Bunny, visits from the Tooth Fairy seem to no longer apply. Therefore, when sitting down to enjoy a meal and hearing an unpleasant crunch followed by a sharp pain, clearly the prospect of losing a tooth isn’t what it used to be!

Why Teeth Break?

“If my teeth are meant to last a lifetime, why would they break?”

As silly as it sounds, if you have broken a tooth, you just might find yourself asking that very question; and as simple as the question may be, the answer is actually a bit more complicated. While your natural teeth are certainly strong and durable, there are numerous factors such as accidents, hard foods, acidic substances, or simply neglect and old age, that can seriously damage or even destroy your teeth. Whether it is sudden damage or long-term decay, obviously broken and or missing teeth present a problem in both a practical and aesthetic sense. Therefore, if you have one or more missing teeth, considering getting the necessary replacements is without question the best course of action.

Dental Implant Procedure: New and Improved!

Although the dental implant procedure has been around for a long time, thanks to the numerous recent improvements within modern dental technology, the dental implant procedure today is much different than it once was. While previous incarnations of the dental implant procedure were sometimes cumbersome and final product occasionally failed to blend in with natural teeth. The modern dental implant procedure makes the look and feel of the finished product less like a synthetic substitute, and more like a natural tooth!

Affordable Dental Implants are a Healthy Investment

Implants – The Next Best Thing to Your Real Teeth

Dental Implant Procedure

The process of receiving one of these sleek new implants is a relatively straight-forward procedure in which the roots of the tooth are surgically replaced with a metal post that is designed to anchor in the implant.

Once in place, an abutment is attached to each post to connect them with the artificial tooth. Although, abutments all serve a similar purpose, they may vary somewhat depending on the type of implant you are receiving.

Finally, once each abutment is in place and the gums have healed, (usually taking one to two weeks) you are ready to receive the artificial tooth. Much like the abutment, the tooth will vary depending on whether it’s a removable implant that’s designed to be removed for daily cleaning; or whether it’s a fixed implant that is permanently fastened in place. This ceramic, customized synthetic tooth will provide a high quality and seemingly flawless replacement.

Something to Smile About

As an adult, losing any of your permanent teeth is never a desired situation. However, with state-of-the-art new dental implants, having damaged or missing teeth replaced has never been easier or more effective. So if you have experienced that unfortunate situation where you’ve lost or broken a tooth, and the Tooth Fairy simply doesn’t visit you anymore, perhaps a dental implant procedure is the answer 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 or dental implant procedure 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.

CEREC Crown: Technology giving you a crown in One Day!

May 8, 2018Restorative Dentistrycerec crownDr. Charles R. Kimes

The Future is Now with the CEREC Crown

Although it’s been said many times before, but in this age of iPhones, YouTube, social media, drones, and of course selfies galore, it appears 2018 is the American future we once dreamed of! With the countless new advancements in technology that we have seen in recent years, and continuous new discoveries and innovations on the horizon, the sky’s the limit for what’s yet to come! While numerous businesses and professional fields have been significantly impacted by this influx of new technology, few have experienced as much change and improvement as the field of professional dentistry. This may come as a surprise to many, given the dental industry age and rather monotonous reputation, however in the 21^st century we have learned that it’s never too late for an old dog to learn some new tricks! Thanks to the increasing advancements in technology and improvements and new alternatives to many of the standard procedures, the dental industry as a whole has received a major 21^st century upgrade, thus enabling dentists across the country to provide their patients with a quality of care not previously thought possible!

Before the CEREC CROWN | Dental Crowns: A Brief History

As a basic but effective tool in the arsenal of dentists for many years, the standard dental crown, has become one of the most well known and commonly preformed procedures within the profession. As you might already know, the conventional dental crown is a method of repairing and ultimately restoring teeth that sustained damage or simply decayed over a period of time. This is achieved through the use of a crown or tooth-shaped cap that is placed over the top of the tooth, thereby covering and concealing the damaged area. This not only prevents any further damage, but effectively replaces the damaged portion of the tooth, thus restoring it to its former self.

Once fully restored, the newly crowned tooth will provide both a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution. While the final product is truly remarkable, the process of receiving a crown is not always the most desirable experience and has caused something of a headache among patients in the past. When receiving a standard dental crown, the process requires at least two separate appointments, in which the patient would likely have to take time off work or adjust their schedules to accommodate. Additionally, in waiting to receive a conventional crown, the patient would be given a temporary crown to wear between appointments. While certainly necessary in preventing future damage and providing a quick fix, the cumbersome temporary crown has been unpopular with patients in the past. Temporary crowns have been known to break easily, or sometimes to even fall out. Tedious as the process may be, the end result will typically be that of a sturdy and dependable crown to serve as a long-term replacement.

Although the standard crown will certainly prove its worth over time, it’s important to remember that the average lifespan of a regular dental crown is approximately ten years. However this may certainly vary depending on both lifestyle habits and the routine practice of proper oral hygiene by the patient. That said, the conventional crown despite its flaws, is a tried and true solution that has helped patients for many years.

The Cerec Crown: A New Era

Okay here’s what you’ve all been waiting for! Now imagine a new type of crown that is ecstatically flawless and permanent unlike the standard crown. Image if this crown could be both made and fitted in your mouth in just one single appointment!

Sounds like an imaginary scenario that’s just too good to be true doesn’t it?

Well imagine no more, because this mythical and seemingly flawless new crown is no myth! As the “Chair-side Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics” or “CEREC Crown” is both a very real and highly regarded new procedure that in a short time has received critical acclaim among dentists and patients alike.

As a concept originally conceived by the dental industry during the 1980s, the CEREC crown concept was shelved due to a lack of technology at the time and for years remained little more than a far-fetched proposal for the future. While few expected the CEREC concept to ever come to fruition, as the 21st century saw technology soaring to never before seen heights, the once elusive CEREC crown was now a possibility!

Related Article: CEREC Crown: Myth OR Magic?

Where Can I Get a CEREC Crown?

Newly available at Overland Park Dentistry, the CEREC crown is a specially customized dental crown. It is created specifically for you through digital imaging as opposed to simply using goopy dental impressions. This cutting edge digital imagining allows Dr. Kimes to scan the inside of your mouth to accurately pinpoint the precise dimensions of your new crown; and thereby create a near perfect replica of your natural tooth! Once placed over a rotten or broken natural tooth, this masterpiece of modern dentistry provides a permanent replacement. Your CEREC crown is virtually unnoticeable and can even be customized to match the exact shade of your teeth!

Although considerably stronger, presenting an exponentially improved appearance, many patients consider the convenient process in receiving the CEREC crown to be among their favorite improvements over the conventional crown.

As mentioned previously… unlike the conventional crown, the CEREC crown only requires one appointment to receive, giving you a complete, permanent replacement, and sparing you the hassle of making it to multiple appointments and having to manage a temporary crown.

CEREC Crown: Let’s Make it Happen!

With 2018 in full swing, CEREC technology is red hot and enormously popular! So, if you’re in need of a crown or crown replacement, we have just what you need! Come see Dr. Kimes and his friendly staff at Overland Park Dentistry and see if the one of a kind CEREC crown is right 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.

Root Canal Symptoms: The Root of Your Fears

March 27, 2018Restorative Dentistryroot canal symptomsDr. Charles R. Kimes

Root Canal Symptoms: What is at the root of your fears?

Are you having root canal symptoms? You don’t have to be an insider within the dental profession to be familiar with the term “Root Canal”, as the mere mention of the term has left many dental patients shaking in their shoes. Perhaps due to its association with pain, or perhaps simply due to its serious sounding name, root canals have seem to have become the dental community’s version of the boogeyman! As result of this, root canals have received something of a bad reputation among patients, and while the thought of getting a root canal may sound a bit scary for some, few people truly take the time to ask what exactly a root canal is?

Well for starters, the term root canal doesn’t refer to a dental procedure, but rather to the pulp-based chambers and canals within and around the tooth. Much like trees and plants, these chambers and canals serve as the inner source of nourishment or (to put it bluntly) the guts and roots of the tooth.

The procedure often mistakenly known as a “root canal” is correctly known as endodontic therapy. And rather than the boogeyman, this procedure is actually something of an angel in disguise. “Endo” being the Greek word for inside, and “Odont” being Greek for tooth, is (as its name implies) the maintenance and restoration of the inner anatomy of your tooth; which as you will see here is often not what its perceived to be.

A Chamber of Horrors: Root Canal Symptoms

Obviously, the chamber and canals within your tooth are of vital importance to the overall health of your tooth; however, if decay, damage or an infection were to contaminate this connective tissue, this otherwise healthy pulp chamber can quickly regress into a chamber of horrors and require treatment! Whether it be decay from improper dental hygiene or simply damage from a chipped or cracked tooth, if the pulp becomes infected, you’re going to notice.

Root Canal Symptoms of an infected root canal may include:

Sharp pain and prolonged tenderness
Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods
Swelling of nearby gums
Pain and/or difficulty when chewing or applying pressure
Noticeable darkening or discoloration of the tooth

While the symptoms of the infected pulp and root may vary at first, chances are likely they will greatly worsen over time. Living with such persistent pain may become increasingly difficult or even unbearable. Therefore, to remedy this pain and prevent any further complications, endodontic treatment is essential.

Root Canal Symptoms: Endodontic Treatment

The process of replacing and restoring the root canal has been one of the more sophisticated and important procedures available in modern dentistry for many years now. As mentioned previously, this procedure has garnered something of a negative perception over the years. However, as illustrated by the above-mentioned symptoms, truthfully the entire purpose of endodontic treatment is to restore the tooth and relieve any discomfort you may be experiencing.

The endodontic treatment process itself is pretty straight-forward and can easily be broken down into five phases:

The initial (and often most stress relieving) phase of the treatment is to prepare the tooth. This includes numbing the tooth and affected area, then creating a small opening through the tooth’s crown into the pulp chamber.
The second and perhaps most important phase is the removal of the pulp or nerve tissue of the tooth. In this phase the pulp is entirely removed from within the tooth and the pulp chamber along with all root canals are cleaned and reshaped. The purpose of this is to remove all infected tissue from the tooth, then prepare it to be refilled.
Much like the second phase, the third phase focuses on the continued expulsion of the infection from within chambers and canals. A sterilizing material is placed within them to rid the tooth of any remaining bacteria. Once complete, the tooth is then sealed with a temporary filling, to prevent contamination.
The fourth phase of the endodontic treatment is a bit of a transitional phase and in some cases, may likely require two separate appointments to fully complete. Upon return, your dentist will remove the temporary filling and re-examine the tooth to ensure the infection has been totally eradicated. In advanced cases antibiotics may be required prevent the infection from spreading.
The final phase is when the dentist ultimately restores the tooth by administering a dental crown or a filling. This step strengthens the tooth, and returns it to its former healthy appearance. While this completes the endodontic treatment process, it’s important to continue scheduling yearly routine dental appointments and practicing proper oral hygiene at home, as failure to do so may lead to additional complications!

Root Canal Symptoms: Nothing to fear but fear itself!

As you can hopefully assume, in spite of the hype and less than stellar reputation, the highly misunderstood endodontic treatment, (or root canal as it’s so often called) is truly nothing scary at all. Yes, like the Loch Ness Monster, the Abominable Snowman and the Boogeyman, this so-called monster is nothing more than myth and at Overland Park Dentistry we are more than happy to prove this to you!

Is having endodontic therapy the most desirable situation to be in? Of course not! But is it the awful, miserable, nightmarish experience that some would lead you to believe? Not at all! So, if a painful root canal is making your life a nightmare, have no fear! Come see us at Overland Park Dentistry so we can treat your root canal symptoms!

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 endodontic treatment or 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.

Affordable Dental Implants are a Healthy Investment

September 12, 2017Restorative Dentistryaffordable dental implantsDr. Charles R. Kimes

Affordable Dental Implants: Your health is an investment, not an expense!

When seeking financial advice, many “experts” are bound to advise you on what you should and should not invest in. While some of this investment advice may or may not prove beneficial (depending on who is giving the advice) one investment that’s sure to never be a mistake is investing in your health.

Surely most people realize, maintaining your health is absolutely imperative in ensuring not only your future security and productivity, but in preserving your longevity and life quality as well. Although the idea of staying healthy may seem relatively easy based on the outward appearance of our bodies, it’s often what’s going on inside our bodies in which we are unaware. Therefore to truly maintain our general health, it is necessary to understand what’s happening inside our bodies, and what better way to get a glimpse inside then by looking in our mouths?

Affordable Dental Implants: Oral health is the key!

That’s right! In many ways your oral health can be the key to maintaining your overall general health. Of course if neglected it can lead to serious health problems that may affect your health in numerous ways. As you can probably imagine, much of your oral health revolves around teeth as the function they serve is both demanding and essential in daily life. However if your teeth are damaged or destroyed, getting a tooth replacement is certainly the best course of action, and there are few (if any) better replacement options than an affordable dental implant.

Affordable Dental Implants: What are Dental Implants?

While you may have heard the term affordable dental implants a time or two before, understanding exactly what they are and how they are used is a bit more complicated. If certain teeth have become damaged or simply just have decayed over time, maintaining proper oral health will likely require these teeth to be replaced.

While there are several options available for those in need of tooth replacements, (such as a removable partial denture or a fixed bridge) affordable dental implants for many have become the sought after solution in such a predicament. The dental implant simply put; is a synthetic custom made tooth that is created specifically to replace the natural tooth. To achieve this, a screw like device known as an implant fixture is placed within the gum via a small incision, thus allowing the implant to be fitted into place, thereby creating a nearly flawless and often permanent replacement. Due to their ability to successfully replace missing teeth, while providing a permanent generally undetectable (implants blend in with natural teeth extremely well) solution, affordable dental implants are considered by practitioners and patients alike as the premier choice for tooth replacement.

Affordable Dental Implants: Invest in your future

While dental implants have gained a substantial amount of prominence outside the dental community, unfortunately they have also become somewhat notorious for being expensive and therefore impractical. While it’s true there are cheaper options for replacing missing teeth, remember it’s a good idea to consider a dental implant as something of an investment, as it will likely save you a considerable amount of time and money in the years to come; which is why we refer to them as affordable dental implants.

Although removable partial dentures and dental bridges are indeed efficient solutions in some situations, it’s important to realize that eventually they will need to be replaced. Although this may vary depending on how well and how regularly they are maintained. Typically removable partials and bridges have a lifespan of about ten years. However, dental implants require considerably less maintenance and can last a lifetime; a wise investment, indeed.

Obviously there is a big difference between these three options, and a major advantage of getting the dental implant the first time. While more expensive at first, in time the affordable dental implant will save you the hassle of performing daily routine maintenance on your dental appliance. In addition to the time savings there is also the cost of having to replace the appliance after several years.

As many patients and practitioners agree, the trade-off is typically worth it as the affordable dental implant is not only a much more permanent solution, but it is also much stronger. Thereby more effective than the traditional denture appliances, as the wearer will experience no limitations while chewing and eating any type of food!

Affordable Dental Implants: Invest in yourself

Remember, you deserve to invest in yourself. In order to maximize your performance and achieve your goals, you need to take care of yourself. As mentioned earlier, taking care of your personal health is perhaps one of the best decisions you can make, and there are few better places to start than with your teeth!

So if you have missing teeth, why not invest in the most effective solution possible? Affordable dental implants are not only the most effective option available, but economically they are a worthwhile choice as well.

So remember if you’re in need of a tooth replacement, consider investing in the highly effective and state of the art dental implant. Why? Because your worth it!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to help you replace a missing tooth! Or with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. To schedule a dental appointment, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

Is a Mouth Guard for Sports a Necessary Precaution?

August 22, 2017Dental Health Tips, Restorative Dentistrymouth guardDr. Charles R. Kimes

Mouth Guard for Sports: Game On!

As the leaves begin to change and fall approaches, we enter the season that both kids and parents often refer to as sports season. This nostalgic time of year is often marked by tailgating, cookouts, trophies, and of course lots and lots of cheering. However in this season of high energy fun and competitive spirit, taking the necessary precautions to ensure your child’s safety is an absolute must!

While a bit pricey at times, many parents will spare no expense in making sure their children have all the required protective gear; such as proper shoes or cleats, knee and elbow pads, and any additional equipment. Although gathering all the required gear may prove to be a bit challenging, there is one particularly important piece of equipment that cannot be overlooked; this of course is a mouth guard for sports.

Mouth Guard for Sports: Accidents Happen

While this will vary considerably depending on your child’s chosen sport, rough and tumble action is a pitfall of almost any sport. As you can imagine, this may lead to accidents and or injuries. While a mouth guard is considered mandatory by many sports today, their overall importance can be easy to overlook.

The primary purpose of a mouth guard is to cushion an impact to the face and jaw, thereby helping prevent or reduce the likelihood of broken teeth or oral injuries. Because the top row of teeth generally take the brunt of the trauma upon impact, the basic mouth guard is primarily designed to protect the upper teeth by covering them. It is a good idea to get your child used to using a mouth guard while participating in sports at an early age. Using a mouth guard should be absolutely essential for teenage athletes as their intensity and overall competitiveness is often much greater.

It should also be noted that it is especially important for a child or teenage athlete with braces to use a mouth guard while competing. Impact may cause damage to the appliance, in addition to causing painful cuts or abrasions within the mouth.

Mouth Guard for Sports: Three Types

As you probably realize, there are several different types of mouth guards available, and the overall effectiveness of mouth guards may vary greatly depending on the type purchased.

Stock Guards:

Stock guards are the most basic type of mouth guard available, and are available at most sporting goods stores. While relatively cheap and easy to come by, many dentists and athletic coordinators do not recommend using stock guards. The pre-formed guards are often bulky and ill-fitting, providing only minimal protection.

Boil and Bite Guards:

Another basic, but certainly more efficient mouth guard is the classic boil and bite guard. Like the stock guards, boil and bite guard (or B&B guard) is readily available at most sporting goods stores. However unlike the stock guard the B&B guard can be shaped to better fit the user’s mouth. As its name implies, the guard is softened in boiling water, then inserted in to the user’s mouth and adjusted to the individual bite pattern. While the B&B guard is sometimes an efficient solution, the rubbery material used to create the guards is often prone to wear and tear and may eventually need to be replaced.

Custom Dental Guards:

A custom-made dental mouth guard, as one can imagine, are by far the most effective and efficient of the three mouth guard types. They are created personally for the user by Dr. Kimes. Although more expensive than the aforementioned options, using professional grade material the custom mouth guard is considerably stronger and more durable than the basic mouth guards. In addition, providing an easier and overall more comfortable fit.

To receive one of these specially designed custom guards, you must schedule an appointment to see Charles R. Kimes, DDS at Overland Park Dentistry. While this may seem somewhat inconvenient, remember by investing in the best protection available now, you may be saving both yourself and your child from much more trouble and expense later if such an accident were to occur!

You should know that there are other reasons for needing a mouth guard … do you clench your teeth or grind your teeth at night? If so, you may want to get additional information that could help you (or your spouse)! Read “Don’t Stress … Get a Mouth Guard for Teeth Grinding” and schedule an appointment with Dr. Kimes.

Mouth Guard for Sports: Safety First!

In a season of sporting events and fun with family and friends, clearly there is much to do; however, taking the time to ensure that your little athlete has the correct amount of protection is without doubt the necessary first priority. So remember although a seemingly small and easy-to-overlook detail, making sure that your child’s smile is properly protected by a mouth guard is an absolute must!

The sports season is a time that’s sure to put smiles on kids’ faces and we at Overland Park Dentistry want to keep it that way! So find the right mouth guard for your kiddo, and trust us when we say that a little extra protection may go a long way in keeping both you and that little athlete of yours smiling!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to help you protect your kiddo’s smile with a sports mouth guard! Or with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. To schedule a dental appointment, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

Missing: 3 Options for Tooth Replacement

June 27, 2017Restorative Dentistrytooth replacement, tooth replacement optionsDr. Charles R. Kimes

Tooth Replacement: A Nightmare Come True!

Having a strange or sometimes vivid dream, is something most people experience from time to time. Although dreams often vary from person to person, one of the most common dreams (or nightmares) revolves around losing one’s teeth. Unfortunately for some people however, this nightmare has ended up coming true as they have sustained a severely chipped or damaged tooth, and are now in need of a tooth replacement. However despite this unfortunate and often untimely problem, there are several great tooth replacement options available, if you should find yourself in such a predicament.

Reasons for tooth replacement

While obviously your teeth are very tough, did you know that your teeth are in fact harder than any bone in your entire body! To some this may come as a surprise. To others it makes a great deal of sense, as your teeth have the extremely important task of breaking down your food for consumption. Unfortunately even as tough as your teeth are, there are many factors such as hard foods, acidic substances, or simply neglect and old age, that can potentially damage or completely destroy your teeth. Therefore it is necessary to replace a tooth if damage or decay has begun to occur.

Tooth replacement can be accomplished three different ways depending on the needs of the patient, each of which are capable of providing an effective long-term solution for the user.

Tooth Replacement Options: The Big Three

There are three primary options available when having one or more teeth replaced; each of these options is designed to accommodate different circumstances surrounding the patient’s overall replacement needs. Each of the three tooth replacement options presents certain advantages and disadvantages, which should be considered upon making one’s section.

Option 1: Removable Partial

Often considered the most economical of the replacement options, the removable partial denture or RPD, is a removable row of porcelain dentures, as its name implies. A RPD can be used both as functional teeth and to serve aesthetic purposes. Despite the RPD’s relative popularity due to it being the least expensive of the options, it is the most accommodating for older individuals who may need several teeth replaced. However, it does present certain drawbacks. Over the years there have been quite a few instances of RPD’s getting lost or going missing, particularly among elderly patients or folks on vacation, thus leading some to seek a more secure solution.

Option 2: Fixed Bridge

A bridge, or sometimes called fixed partial denture, is much like the removable partial. It’s a row of artificial porcelain teeth, fixated within the patient’s mouth. However the differences between an RPD and a bridge are not only the fact that the bridge is fixed (or non-removable) but also that the dental bridge provides greater comfort while chewing, requires less cleaning, and is as convincing as actual teeth. Although more expensive than the RPD, the bridge is in many ways superior overall, in addition to requiring little time to be created.

Option 3: Dental Implant

The final and perhaps most sought after tooth replacement option is the dental implant. As opposed to the two previous options, the dental implant is more like an actual tooth that has been specifically created to replace your old one. This ceramic, custom-made tooth is strategically placed onto the jawbone of the patient, so that it may slowly be enveloped by the bone and gums over time becoming the permanent replacement for the missing tooth. Although dental implants are more expensive than the previously mentioned options, they require the least amount of maintenance and attention as the others, in addition to providing the authentic look and feel as a natural tooth.

Fill in the gap

Although your teeth are tough and can last a very long time, if time has taken its toll and caused damage or decay, the three above-mentioned tooth replacement options are certainly available to replace your broken teeth, and end your nightmare once and for all.

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to help you if you end up with a missing tooth! Or with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. To schedule a dental appointment, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

Got a Chipped Tooth? We’ve Got Options for You!

June 13, 2017Restorative Dentistrychipped toothDr. Charles R. Kimes

Chipped Tooth: When you least expect it

Do you have a chipped tooth? Chipping a tooth is typically an unpleasant surprise that can happen when you least expect it. This is often due to the fact that chipping a tooth can happen countless different ways, and can vary depending on the circumstances and severity of the damage. Although a chipped tooth may sound like a minor problem, the reality is that a chipped or fractured tooth can be quite painful, and may even cause you emotional distress or embarrassment. Fortunately, at Overland Park Dentistry, we are more than happy to help you in such a predicament with several great treatment options.

Chipped Tooth: Four easy options!

The primary options for fixing a damaged or chipped tooth are bonding, crowns, dental veneers, or even Lumineers. All of which are available depending on the severity of damage to the tooth itself. Upon scheduling your appointment, Dr. Kimes will likely select one of the following treatments to fix your damaged tooth.

Option 1: Bonding

Also known as a filling, a dental bond has been a commonly sought after solution by dental patients for many years, and continues to be provided by dental specialists nationwide. This tried and true procedure is achieved by the fusing of composite resin to the damaged tooth; ultimately using the resin to fill in the broken-off section of the tooth. (This is why it’s often called a filling!) Although a bonding or filling may provide an aesthetically pleasing solution that may last for many years, this procedure is limited to cavities or minor chips and abrasions in your teeth. If the damage to your tooth is more severe, a crown may be required to repair the chip.

Option 2: Crown

Differing somewhat from bonding, a dental crown is a more in depth procedure that may be used to repair a tooth that has sustained a substantial amount of breakage in which a larger portion of the tooth has been broken off. A basic dental crown is essentially a cap made from ceramic material, for the purpose of being fitted to your tooth. When applied, the cap will encase much of the tooth and create a protective covering.

The conventional dental crown has proven itself to be an effective solution for dentists and patients alike. However, due to recent advancements within dental technology, the process of receiving a crown is now quicker and easier than ever… thanks to the Cerec crown.

The aptly named Cerec crown, (which stands for “Chairside Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics”) is a cutting-edge crown that requires only one appointment to receive. The Cerec crown is custom made to fit the exact dimensions of your tooth! This exciting new technology has taken dentistry by storm, and has made the prospect of receiving a crown much more appealing.

Option 3: Veneers

A third and perhaps more unfamiliar option to those outside the field of dentistry are dental veneers. Originally introduced in the 1980s, dental veneers appear as a thin shell-like device that is designed to fit directly over your tooth. Concealing any chips, cracks or blemishes, the veneer also acts as a protective covering or shell over your tooth. Despite their overall popularity for their ability to create a seeming flawless looking smile, veneers are not for everyone. Receiving one of these custom-made ceramic devices require certain alterations to be made to your teeth. These alterations may include the shaving and reshaping of your teeth, which in the case of young healthy sets of teeth, may cause more harm than good.

Option 4: Lumineers

Much like the above mentioned veneers, Lumineers are ceramic shells that encase the entirety of your tooth. Ultimately this conceals the chip or damage, while effectively protecting your tooth from any additional damage that may occur. Despite these similarities, two major differences do exist between veneers and Lumineers that lead many patients to consider dental Lumineers to be something of an upgraded version of the veneers.

One significant difference is that unlike veneers, Lumineers do not require any shaving or alterations to be made to your existing smile. This makes the process of receiving a set of Lumineers not only safer, but considerably less invasive.

Another more cosmetically-based difference is the fact that Lumineers are much thinner and entirely transparent, which gives the Lumineers a far less noticeable and consequently more natural appearance.

Be Prepared

As mentioned earlier, while a chipped tooth is certainly something that no one can plan on, you can however plan on what to do in the occurrence of a chipped tooth, and your friends here at Overland Park Dentistry are here to help! Remember there is no need to suffer the effects of a broken or chipped tooth when there are so many great treatments available for you; come see us right away so we can keep your smile beautiful and chip free!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to help you if you end up with a chipped tooth! Or withany preventative, restorative or cosmetic needs you or your family may have. To schedule a dental appointment, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

Don’t Stress… Get a Mouth Guard for Teeth Grinding

May 23, 2017Restorative Dentistrymouth guard for teeth grindingDr. Charles R. Kimes

Mouth Guard for Teeth Grinding: Take a deep breath

In life there is no shortage of stress. Between work, family, and financial concerns, people experience stress for all sorts of reasons. However what is seldom realized is how exactly our stress affects us and what may happen as a result. Like many people, you may need a mouth guard for teeth grinding. Tooth grinding or bruxism is a common but disconcerting issue that typically affects people suffering from excess stress or anxiety. Teeth grinding affects approximately 10% of the adult population today. Left untreated it can cause an unwarranted amount of problems that, in a cruel twist of irony, may cause additional stress.

Mouth Guard for Teeth Grinding: Do you know what really grinds my teeth?

Although the simple act of clenching or grinding your teeth might not seem like a big deal, perhaps the reason why bruxism is so problematic is its chronic and unconscious nature. While recognizing bruxism while you’re awake might be a bit of a challenge, (as typically people grind and clench without noticing it) recognizing it while sleeping is considerably harder.

Unfortunately this is often the case as many people, while unbeknownst to them are grinding and clenching throughout the night, ultimately disrupting their sleep and damaging their teeth.

The amount of damage to ones teeth as a result of chronic grinding is staggering as bruxism can often lead to:

Fractured or chipped teeth
Worn enamel
Increasingly painful or sensitive teeth
Pain in and around the jaw muscles

According to the Bruxism Association, 70% of bruxism cases occur as a result of stress; however, there are multiple factors that can cause or contribute to the occurrence of bruxism.

One of the basic causes of tooth grinding or clenching is a malocclusion or jaw misalignment.
Malocclusion can be caused by misshapen or extra teeth, and can be corrected by dental braces or extracting the extra teeth.
Another and more complicated explanation for bruxism to occur is a reaction to prescription drug use or stimulants. This can sometimes be experienced by patients using medications to treat depression such as Prozac, Zoloft or Paxil, and can be further triggered by the addition of caffeine products such as coffee or energy drinks.
However as mentioned previously, stress, anxiety, and psychological adversity are the primary contributing factors to bruxism as suffers often unconsciously bite down and clench as a natural reaction in dealing with tense thoughts or situations. This may not only be a result of coping with excessive stress, but also as a result of failing to properly manage or release the stress experienced.

Mouth Guard for Grinding Teeth: Not Just for Sports

To combat the damaging effects of bruxism, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS at Overland Park Dentistry has begun implementing the use of a custom mouth guard for grinding teeth, to prevent his patients from continuous grinding and or clenching.

If you chronically suffer from bruxism, ask Dr. Kimes if he recommends using a specialized mouth guard for grinding teeth to prevent any further wear or damage to your teeth.

Using dental impressions, Dr. Kimes will custom fit the mouth guard to your teeth, creating a protective buffer between your upper and lower jaw. This prevents any grinding from occurring. The type of mouth guard for teeth grinding created are typically varied depending on the patient’s comfort level, and reason for use. For daytime use, Dr. Kimes typically create a smaller, transparent mouth guard that a patient can comfortably wear without anyone noticing. On the other hand, nighttime a mouth guard for grinding teeth are larger, stronger, and sometimes more noticeable. This is due to the majority of bruxism suffers being primarily affected at night, in which the grinding or clenching may likely be worse. Additionally your mouth guard for grinding teeth can be created to match your comfort level, as both soft and harder materials are available to be used to create your own particular mouth guard.

Mouth Guard for Grinding Teeth: Fix the problem!

From what you’ve read, it’s clear that bruxism can result in a whole hornet’s nest of problems, and that’s extra stress that you certainly don’t want! If you notice excess grinding during the day, or suspect that you may be clenching and grinding through the night, then you should see Dr. Kimes to get a proper diagnosis and fit for a custom mouth guard for teeth grinding. As stressful as life can be sometimes, there is no need to add to it! Schedule your appointment at Overland Park Dentistry and visit Dr. Kimes soon, and put your mind and your jaw at ease.

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

Don’t Cross the Boss … Get the Same-Day Cerec Crown

May 9, 2017Restorative DentistryDr. Charles R. Kimes

Cerec Crown: Time is of the essence

Let’s face it; work itself can be stressful sometimes, and nothing adds to a stressful work environment more than an angry boss. In the hustle and bustle of today’s working world, time is money. Although this may vary depending on your chosen occupation, it’s pretty safe to assume that your boss would not be happy with you missing multiple days of work. Unfortunately this has been the case for patients needing dental crowns in the past as conventional dental crowns, while very common, require multiple appointments to obtain. This of course presented an issue for many patients, as they were required to set aside large chucks of their work days; resulting in more than one instance of unhappy employers. Fortunately, the field of dentistry has undergone numerous improvements in recent years as advancements in technology have made standard dental procedures not only more efficient, but much faster too. There are few better examples of this than the groundbreaking cerec crown, which has proven itself as a fast and effective solution for busy patients.

What is a Cerec crown?

While the term “cerec” which stands for “Chairside Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics” might not sound familiar, rest assured the cerec crown is a revolutionary new technology that has taken the dental profession by storm, and become a favorite among dentists and patients alike. This cutting edge dental crown is created through digital imaging as opposed to simply using dental impressions. This allows your Dr. Charles R. Kimes at Overland Park Dentistry to determine the exact dimensions of your new crown, and ultimately create a durable, permanent replacement. The aesthetic quality of the cerec crown is so high that the crown is virtually unnoticeable to others, and can in fact be customized to match the exact shade of your teeth! Perhaps one of the favorite aspects of the cerec crown is timely manner in which the procedure can be performed. As mentioned previously, the cerec crown can be created and received in one simple appointment. This will not only save you the significant amount of time that two appointments would take, but will also spare you from the additional hassle managing the sometimes cumbersome temporary crown.

Cerec Crown vs Conventional Crown:

To truly realize the full extent of the advantages that the cerec crown provides, it’s important to understand the pitfalls of the common conventional crown. While the sturdy conventional crown has proven its worth over the years by helping countless patients, the process of receiving the crown could be tedious and time consuming. Unlike the cerec, the process of receiving a conventional crown typically required at least two appointments, and could take a couple of weeks to complete.

Another drawback associated with a conventional crown is the required temporary crown. While waiting for your conventional crown to be finished, you will be required to wear a temporary crown. While essential in preventing further damage to the tooth, the temporary crowns have unpopular with patients in the past, due to their occasional propensity to break or even fall out.

Cerec Crown: Make your boss happy

Being in the hot seat is a place that nobody wants to be, and we certainly don’t want to put you there! If you are in need of a crown, but are concerned about missing too much work, then the cerec crown is the answer for you. Remember no one likes an angry boss, so by receiving the same day cerec crown we hope to provide you with a solution that will have you and your boss smiling!