Tag Archives: teeth whitening

Teeth Whitening FAQ: Is it the Fountain of Youth?

Cosmetic Dentistry,

In 1513, noted Spanish conquistador and explorer, Ponce de Leon, set out in search of a mystical spring known as the “Fountain of Youth” and while he was successful in discovering what we now know as the state of Florida, the quest in discovering a way to reverse one’s age, still continues to this day. Unlike Ponce de Leon however, the dental industry has discovered a way to reverse the appearance of aging in teeth, and for years has been restoring the smiles of patients of all ages with this method!  Known as Teeth Whitening, the process is considered one of the primary components of modern cosmetic dentistry and remains a highly sought-after treatment amongst our patients at Overland Park Dentistry.

Teeth Whitening In A Nutshell

A tooth whitening is a strictly cosmetic-based procedure and, in a nutshell, could be summed up as more of a bleaching process rather than a recoloration. As a person ages, their teeth will inevitably accumulate a certain number of nicks and blemishes, due to the amount wear and tear that they sustain over the years. To remedy this, a professional whitening treatment is administered, in which your dentist applies a bleaching agent to the surface of your teeth. This process typically lasts approximately thirty minutes and for best results, may require a follow up appointment.

However, due to the growing demand for a pearly white picturesque smile, there are always many questions surrounding the whitening procedure that Dr. Kimes and his team address on a regular basis. In this article, we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions and concerns surrounding this treatment as we address these questions and provide a little more insight into the process.  

Teeth Whitening FAQ: Commonly Asked Questions

Q: Is whitening your teeth safe?

A: If preformed by or under the guidance of a professional dentist, then yes, a whitening is a safe and relatively painless procedure that will produce a whiter and more attractive smile. However, over the counter (OTC) whitening products are generally not recommended by dental practitioners and have been known to cause problems amongst users in the past.

Related Article: Teeth Whitening Options: Over the Counter vs. Professional

Q: How long does a teeth whiting last?

A: The longevity of a whitening treatment may potentially last for a couple of years, however this varies depending on your lifestyle. If you are a daily smoker or do not practice proper oral hygiene habits, your newly whitened teeth can begin to fade in as little as a month. If you are a healthy nonsmoker who maintains their dental hygiene, you will probably not require another whitening treatment for a few years.

Q: Are there other ways to whiten my teeth besides a professional whitening?

A: Yes. However as mentioned earlier, the alternative to a professional tooth whitening comes in the form of name brand whitening or strips, that are not recommended by dental practitioners and have resulted in users suffering blistering or bleeding gums. Additionally, OTC whitening products are not nearly as effective as professional grade ingredients, which are required to have received the ADA Seal of Acceptance prior to being used in a professional capacity.

Check out what happens when technology and tooth whitening join forces with an at-home whitening kit that is “Dr. Kimes Approved”: No More Whitening Trays with Glo Pro Teeth Whitening

Q: Will insurance cover the cost of my teeth whitening?

A: Unfortunately, they do not. While certainly many insurance providers offer a number of great dental benefits, because a professional whitening is a cosmetic based procedure, they do not provide coverage for dental whitening treatments.

Q: Do professional whitening products damage tooth enamel?

A: Absolutely not! Professional whiting products have no harmful effects on tooth enamel, nor should they have any adverse effects on a tooth’s nerves or hinder any pre-existing dental restorations.

Q: Is there anything I can do to maintain my newly whitened smile?

A: Yes! To maintain or elongate the affects there are a number of things that you can do. Practicing proper oral hygiene habits, as well as brushing after every meal (especially after consuming sugary or acidic foods) can play a major role to help prolong the whitening affects. Additionally, avoiding acidic beverages or using a straw while consuming them will help keep the hazardous products from staining your teeth, and certainly it’s recommended to avoid tobacco use.

Restore Your Smile!

At Overland Park Dentistry, our team takes great pride in their ability to put smiles on the faces of our patients, and they can certainly do the same for you! If your beautiful smile has suffered from the affects of aging or stains, come see us at Overland Park Dentistry and let’s restore your smile together!

Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

Smile Pretty & Be Merry with Cosmetic Dentistry Choices

Cosmetic Dentistry, , , ,

The Holidays are here at last, and while the weather outside may be cold, with the warm embrace of loved ones all around you, and that warm wave of nostalgia washing over you, it’s hard not to smile during the holiday season! However, if you are self-conscious of your smile or even consider it a source of embarrassment, then the prospect of such a scenario may cause a certain degree of anxiety this time of year.

Fortunately, at Overland Park Dentistry, Dr. Kimes and his team of experts are more than happy to help you in this predicament, by providing you with all the state-of-the-art cosmetic dentistry choices for treatments and technology needed to keep you smiling brightly this holiday season!

Cosmetic Dentistry Choices: ‘Tis The Season for Four Fabulous Options

Since the dawn of the 21st Century, cosmetic dentistry has undergone a radical transformation, thus becoming one of the most sought-after types of treatment within the realm of professional dentistry. This recent surge in popularity is the result of numerous advancements in dental technology, ultimately making the various tried and true cosmetic choices more effective than ever before!

Teeth Whitening:

Teeth whitening treatments are simple, yet effective cosmetic dentistry choices that for many years, has been providing patients from all walks of life, with the picturesque smile of their dreams! Generally lasting little more than 30 minutes, the whitening affect is achieved by applying a bleaching agent directly to the surface of your teeth. This serves to effectively reverse the signs of aging, for a cleaner, sleeker-looking smile than previously seen.

Read more about how you can Get the Smile of Your Dreams with Teeth Whitening.

Veneers:

For the past thirty years, porcelain veneers have been utilized for realigning teeth that are crooked and repairing teeth that have sustained damage. Acting as something similar to a rain jacket, the translucent material encases your teeth, thereby protecting them from outside elements, while simultaneously concealing any gaps or abrasions.

Read more about the difference between Porcelain Veneers and the new technology of Lumineers that are offered at Overland Park Dentistry HERE. Or six reasons you may need to get Porcelain Veneers.

Dental Bonding:

Despite the recent improvements to the ever-popular porcelain veneers, in some scenarios a dental bonding procedure (or filling) is the best solution to restore a tooth. Dental bonding, is a simple procedure in which a composite resin is applied to the damaged area, essentially filling in the area that was broken away. Bonding is used primarily for minor/cosmetic corrections and is generally not recommended for repairing major damage.

Invisalign Invisible Braces:

While traditional metal braces continue to enhance the smiles of teens everywhere, a newer and much more convenient alternative has emerged under the umbrella of cosmetic dentistry choices, known as Invisalign. Invisalign aligners are transparent, thermoplastic aligners that are designed to straighten teeth and correct any jaw alignment issues or irregularities. Supremely popular amongst middle-aged to young adults, the Invisalign aligners are easily removable, require patients to make relatively few (if any) lifestyle changes, and are virtually unnoticeable.

Invisalign isn’t just for adults… Brace Yourself with Invisalign TEEN! Read more about how you can Smile Bright with Invisalign Invisible Braces HERE.

Time Is of The Essence!

As we descend further into the final weeks of 2019, it’s important to remember that any unused benefits that you may have from your insurance provider, will not carry over from one year to the next. Don’t forget that booking a dental appointment prior to the New Year becomes increasingly more and more difficult. Therefore, if your holiday wish is to smile brightly this season then don’t wait, December appointments are going fast so make yours now, and greet the holidays with a smile!

Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

Teeth Whitening Options: Over the Counter vs. Professional

Cosmetic Dentistry,

White Teeth: A Universal Desire!

If you could describe your teeth in one word what would it be? While it might seem silly at first, contemplating over such a question might yield some interesting or perhaps even undesirable answers. Unfortunately, this is often the case for many people as according to several recent polls, approximately 65.9% of people across the globe reported being dissatisfied with the color/appearance of their teeth. While it’s important to consider that the dental care in some of the countries in question may lack the resources available to those within in the United States, clearly one’s teeth can have a significant impact on one’s sense of self-esteem!

Certainly, a beautiful white smile is a universal desire shared by folks from all walks of life; however, the question of how to obtain a picturesque smile of your own may vary depending on how you choose to do so. There are in fact, two different ways you can have your teeth whitened, and both of which may present aspects that can be both positive and negative depending on your given circumstances.

Teeth Whitening: Two Different Options

Now before we get into the two different teeth whitening options, lets first refresh your memory on what exactly a tooth whitening is and how it’s done. As a strictly cosmetic procedure, whitening your teeth is the practice of removing any stains or discoloration your teeth may have. As we age, our teeth sustain a significant amount of wear and tear over the years, thus accumulating various nicks and blemishes on the surface of your teeth. Therefore, the purpose of the whitening process is to effectively reverse the effects of aging and restore your smile to its former glory.

This is achieved by first applying a protective coating to the surrounding gums, then a bleaching agent directly to the surface of your teeth. This process can take  upwards of 30 minutes and can be administered a couple of different ways. Naturally, this is where the process may differ depending on your chosen option, as a professionally administered whitening can be performed by your dentist upon your request, or you may elect to undertake the procedure yourself via over the counter whitening products. Obviously, this decision entirely yours to make, however its important to realize the implications prior to making your selection as the results may vary accordingly.

Over the Counter Whitening: Pros and Cons

Pros: Generic name brand whitening materials have been sold at local pharmacies and convenience stores for years and are readily available upon visiting one. Due to the fact that Over the counter (OTC) whitening products are economically friendly and can be obtained relatively easily, these products have been somewhat popular amongst the general public in the past. While the popularity of these products has waned somewhat in recent years, OTC whitening products continue to remain a staple of pharmacies nationwide.

Cons: Whether you select whitening trays or strips, unfortunately there are a number of issues that have been reported by users of OTC products, which has perhaps led to their recent decline in consumer interest. One such issue reported in users of both OTC trays and strips is gum irritation due to exposure the bleaching solution, resulting in bleeding or painful blistering of the gums or throat. Additionally, the bleaching solution employed by OTC products has caused some users to complain of significant tooth sensitivity to particularly hot or cold temperatures, thus causing some to immediately cease use. Another counterproductive drawback is the occasional propensity of OTC whitening trays to stain or discolor teeth, due to the trays fitting incorrectly as unlike customized professional whitening trays, OTC whitening trays are a “one size fits all design” and might not meet your exact specifications.

Professional Whitening Options: Pros and Cons

Pros: A Professional dental whitening is unquestionably the safest and most efficient way to ensure your teeth look better than ever! A professional whitening treatment requires a visit to the dental office, where the dentist will assess the amount of whitening solution needed, (based on the degree of tooth discoloration as well as the preferences of the patient) and proceed to take impressions of the upper and lower rows of teeth, thus providing you with custom-fitted whitening trays. Once the whitening solution has been administered, you will receive your custom trays, as well as a take home touch-up kit. This kit will include a set of detailed instructions on how to the trays are to be correctly worn and how to properly load the amount of bleaching gel into each tray in order to prevent any issues or mishaps. By opting for a professional whitening, you will see instant results as well as receiving high quality materials to ensure the desired results.

Cons: While a professional whiting is clearly superior to all OTC systems, as far as the actual whitening procedure goes, obviously a professional whitening does require you to take the time to come in for an actual dental appointment. Although the treatment is relatively short, (rarely exceeding an hour) this can present an issue for some those with inflexible schedules. Perhaps the only other issue presented by a professional whitening, is the fact that the procedure does cost more than OTC products, and while the price may vary depending on a number of factors, this is something to consider when making your selection.

Related Article: Professional Teeth Whitening: Get the Smile of Your Dreams

The Choice is Yours!

While a beautiful smile is something that everyone wants, the way to achieve the smile of your dreams is up to you. At Overland Park Dentistry we certainly encourage patients to consider a professional whitening for the most effective results, however only you can decide which whitening method is the correct solution for you! Read more here about other Cosmetic Dentistry Options to achieve the smile of your dreams.

If you are unhappy with your smile, considering teeth whitening options, or simply have questions about getting your teeth whitened, please call us at Overland Park Dentistry, and let us help you get the smile that you desire!

Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

Professional Teeth Whitening: Get the Smile of Your Dreams

Cosmetic Dentistry, ,

 

 

professional-teeth-whitening

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!

Related Article: Say Cheese with Cosmetic Dentistry Options!

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.

Related Article: Your Overland Park Dentist: Charles R. Kimes, DDS

 

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.

Say ‘Cheese’ with Cosmetic Dentistry Options!

Cosmetic Dentistry, Uncategorized, ,

cosmetic-dentistry-options

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.

Related Article: Got a Chipped Tooth? We’ve Got Options for YOU!

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!

Related Articles:

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!

Related Article: Your Overland Park Dentist: Charles R. Kimes, DDS

 

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.