Page 7 – Dentist Indianapolis | Dental Care for You & Your Family

I Need a Dentist to Answer My Questions

I am looking for a dentist to answer questions about oral health

We hear this a lot from new patients who have questions and concerns but do not know where to turn for answers. We provide comprehensive dental care and are happy to answer any questions you may have. In fact, we prefer it. There are many dental myths that circulate on a regular basis, and if you believe them to be true, they can increase the risk of health problems.

It is important, therefore, to visit a dentist who will answer your questions and provide you with factual information that can help you to maintain positive oral health. In the meantime, here are a few things we hear from new patients on a regular basis.

I need a dentist to tell me how to deal with my toothache.

If a patient has a toothache that does not go away, we recommend visiting our dental office for an examination. A common myth is that applying aspirin directly to the tooth will make it feel better, which can actually burn the gums and we do not recommend this procedure. However, it is important to not ignore a toothache if the pain persists.

A toothache can be a sign of a more serious infection that we need to remove or merely a common cavity. In both cases, early detection and treatment are the best ways to prevent future significant discomfort.

I need a dentist to show me how my smile can be improved.

As a local family dentist,Mass Ave Family Dentistry can improve the appearance of a smile using several methods. Teeth whitening is typically a good place to start because it removes stains and yellowing that occur over time. A common myth is that this can be done at home using lemons. We usually warn against at-home remedies, especially in this case, because the acid in lemons can harm the teeth by stripping away the enamel. Once the enamel is gone, the teeth can become permanently sensitive, requiring additional dental care. Whitening them in our office is a safer option.

Once the teeth are white, we can correct other common issues like closing gaps in between the teeth, changing their shape and size, and even straightening them. This can be done with several solutions, including dental veneers, dental crowns, and bonding. All are effective, and we will discuss the pros and cons of each when a patient comes in. We can even replace missing teeth with a dental bridge or dental implants.

Given the variety of solutions we offer, it is important to visit us for a thorough dental examination. We will create a customized treatment plan that addresses all of your needs, answer your questions about the procedures and what you can expect, and work around your schedule. We understand that a smile makeover is a commitment, and we will do our part to make the process as easy as possible.

For answers to your dental questions or to learn more about how we can help you, call and schedule a consultation today.

I Need a Dentist to Answer My Questionsadmin2024-01-25T10:40:05+00:00

We Can Complete a Full Mouth Reconstruction if You Have Suffered Major Dental Trauma

If you need a full mouth reconstruction, Mass Ave Family Dentistry can help. Most people will never have the need for this level of intervention. However, if you have severe dental damage due to a car accident, workplace injury, or sports injury, it is entirely possible to need more than a simple restoration. In this case, something like a dental crown will not be enough to restore your mouth to full functionality and appearance. This is where a full mouth reconstruction becomes useful.

What is involved in a full mouth reconstruction?

Full mouth reconstruction is entirely dependent upon the extent of the damage that the patient suffers. Since dental trauma is unpredictable, each injury is unique from another. Even if two people damage their teeth in the same accident, both may damage different areas of the teeth. To determine what procedures the patient needs, we will first conduct a physical examination and then take X-rays.

This examination will show us all of the areas that we need to address. When creating a treatment plan, we will start by addressing any immediate needs of the patient. For example, if a patient has several damaged teeth, it is crucial to restore these teeth prior to trying to replace any lost teeth. This process will minimize the patient’s discomfort.

Next, we will address any aesthetic challenges that the patient has as a result of the accident. Since multiple procedures are involved in a full mouth reconstruction, it may take several months for them all to be completed. It is important, however, to do things systematically so as not to further irritate the teeth and gums.

A full mouth reconstruction will address both the appearance and functionality of your smile.

When we are creating a plan, we will incorporate treatments that address both the way that the smile functions and how it appears. Many of the solutions we offer address both at the same time. For example, a dental crown can restore a cracked or chipped tooth since it is a cap that fully covers it. We can create the crowns using the tooth-colored material so that it also blends in and looks like a natural tooth.

In some cases, we will place a crown on damaged teeth and the ones next to it for an improved appearance. Another example of this is when we place dental implants. If a patient loses teeth in an accident, we will replace them as part of the full mouth reconstruction. Implants are the best way to do so because we replace both the tooth and the root. The implanted titanium post provides stimulation that the jawbone needs to prevent resorption. It serves as a sturdy anchor for a new, beautiful tooth to be attached to as well.

In this way, an implant improves both the appearance of your smile and strength of the jawbone at the same time. Whenever we are completing a reconstruction, we will suggest solutions that can achieve multiple goals by looking natural and giving you the full functionality of your mouth. To learn more or to schedule a consultation with Mass Ave Family Dentistry, call today.

We Can Complete a Full Mouth Reconstruction if You Have Suffered Major Dental Traumaadmin2024-01-25T10:40:06+00:00

The Reason for Teeth Whitening and the Science Behind It

Teeth whitening is one of those conveniences that have become an integral part of how people improve their appearance today. It was not always so convenient or so easy to get your teeth whitening done. Today, you have the choice of going to see us and having your teeth whitening done by us in the office, or buying a solution from the local pharmacy and doing it yourself. Regardless of what method you chose, it has never been easier or as inexpensive to get your teeth whitened.

An efficient solution

With the number of products that can discolor teeth, it is important to consider teeth whitening as a potential treatment option. Regular beverages such as coffee, tea, soda and wine, all stain teeth. Even with proper oral hygiene and brushing, people still experience teeth staining.

Fortunately, teeth whitening is an easy and efficient process with professional supervision. People who attempt to whiten teeth without professional supervision or services can actually cause more damage to their teeth and increase the chance for other health risks.

Did you know that teeth whitening is actually a chemical process? Most people who whiten their teeth have no idea how the process happens or that the peroxide solution used is designed to make the smallest of changes in your enamel’s natural organic chemical makeup. It is important for you to be aware that when you are whitening your teeth you are not just dyeing the outside of the tooth with a whiter paint, rather you are actually causing the tooth itself, from the inside out, to look whiter with a chemical process known as oxidization.

A chemical process

The peroxide is quickly absorbed into the tooth enamel, where it works to release free radicals that make the tooth more colorless, and hence they appear to be whiter. Our solution is stronger and more effective than what you can purchase from the store so the results that you see will be far more dramatic.

The reason we point this out is that there are many over the counter whitening solutions available, and we would recommend two things if you are going to use one of them. First, we would advise that you consult with us before starting the process regardless of how you are going to be whitening your teeth. Very often, there are minor challenges with your teeth, like a small cavity, for example, that can be exasperated or irritated by the peroxide in the teeth whitening solution.

We can prevent you from feeling discomfort with a simple checkup, and by correcting these issues before they become a problem. Secondly, we recommend that you always follow professional advice as to how frequently you should whiten your teeth. Overly frequent use of teeth whitening products can lead to sensitivity, among other problems.

The Reason for Teeth Whitening and the Science Behind Itadmin2024-01-25T10:40:07+00:00

Visit the Dentist to Keep Teeth Healthy

By visiting the dentist you can stay in excellent oral health. Our office is modern and comfortable, however, we know that the dentist office probably not your ideal spot for relaxing, reading magazines, and catching up on all the celebrity gossip. In fact, most people would prefer to avoid ever having to visit the dentist, and sadly many people do avoid coming in until they have some kind of a dental emergency.

We will tell the patient that the only way to reduce the number of times he or she comes in with an emergency situation is to have a strategy for preventative oral care. This usually involves coming in to see us at least twice per year for a teeth cleaning that allows us to identify and treat any potential problems before they become serious. Coming in for a well-visit is far more enjoyable than having to come in with a severe toothache.

Dental Office Visits

As a dentist, we can clean an individual’s teeth at least twice per year and determine if there are any dental health risks before they get worse. If we find any signs of dental health issues, we will eliminate the issue during the appointment or schedule another one to do so. When patients come in for a wellness checkup, we will also take X-rays to see if there are any issues below the gum line as well.

During these visits, we can also go over a patient’s oral hygiene routine and bring up areas that the patient needs to focus on, which ultimately will improve oral health. The patient needs to make sure to follow these steps as these practices will reduce the potential for both toothaches and dental emergencies. For both are two of the main reasons why people come in to see us, outside of regularly-scheduled visits.

Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies happen quite frequently and can range from a kid knocking out a tooth during soccer practice to severe infection. There is really no way to predict accidents that cause a dental emergency. However, regular teeth cleanings and exams will ensure that a patient’s teeth are strong and more likely to withstand the damage.

As a dentist, we provide preventative care to reduce the likelihood of a future emergency or at least minimize the damage in the event of an accident. If an individual does get in an accident and damages his or her teeth, however minor, we recommend calling our office right away so that we can then advise the individual on the course of action. We may be able to even suggest ways to reduce discomfort.

Toothaches

In a sense, toothaches do fall under the broad categorization of a dental emergency, and they are among the most frequent reasons why people seek out medical attention for their teeth. As a dentist , we always recommend contacting us as soon as a toothache develops, since there could be a number of underlying causes that could be triggering the pain. By examining it right away, we can identify the problem and treat it before the infection spreads further.

Visit the Dentist to Keep Teeth Healthyadmin2024-01-25T10:40:08+00:00

The Benefits of Mercury Free Dentistry

When you live in an era with constant exposure to harmful chemicals, the benefits of a mercury-free dentistry are extensive. It is shocking for many patients to learn those amalgam fillings, also known as “silver” fillings, can consist of nearly 55 percent mercury. For those who are striving to live a healthy lifestyle, it is frustrating to know that even substances restoring teeth can contain harmful components.

At our mercury free dentistry, we know the danger that comes from amalgam fillings. We strive to offer our patients safer options that not only benefit their teeth but also their entire well-being. Continue reading to learn more about the danger of mercury and the benefits we provide.

The Harmfulness of Amalgam Fillings

Some studies find amalgam fillings to be unsafe. Regardless of what other sources state about the safety of the amount of mercury in fillings, once someone places them into the teeth, amalgam is no longer stable. Once complete, it continually releases a mercury vapor into the mouth and body. Mercury is bioaccumulative, meaning that releasing more mercury adds onto the mercury already in the body.

The mercury concentrates the substance in order to cause persistent harm to the patient. Even if the mercury does not visibly affect you, developing fetuses are much more susceptible to the toxic effects of mercury in the body, and they could be born with damaged neurological systems. Amalgam fillings can actually harm the teeth. Since silver amalgam fillings require a larger area for support, placing these fillings requires the removal of healthy tooth structure. As more the process removes more of the natural tooth, the tooth becomes weaker overall.

Even after placing these fillings to prevent further decay, the tooth is at risk for more damage, such as cracking due to the expansion of the amalgam. The tooth can also crack due to consistent use because amalgam creates a chisel-like pressure that gradually wedges deeper into the tooth.

The Benefits of Our Mercury Free Dentistry

At our office, we offer durable filling options that are safe for use in a patient’s mouth. Our fillings do not produce harmful chemicals that enter the body and can potentially hurt the patient. Instead of amalgam, we use other options, like composite resin and glass ionomers. These materials are not only healthier for the body and the environment, but they are also tooth-colored and less noticeable.

We reinforce composite resin and glass ionomer fillings with strong materials that allow them to last for years to come. We can customize the color of these fillings to closely match the patient’s teeth. Both of these options require less removal of the tooth structure, allowing the teeth to remain naturally strong. The fillings we offer at our mercury free dentistry do not act as a wedge and crack the teeth. Our fillings are strong but also share malleable properties with the bone that allows them to take enough pressure to not cause harm to other teeth.

We strive to provide our patients with the best and safest materials at our mercury free dentistry. We guarantee our fillings are not harmful to you or the environment. Our materials are equally strong, attractive, and beneficial. Visit Mass Ave Family Dentistry for your dental work and restorations.

The Benefits of Mercury Free Dentistryadmin2024-01-25T10:40:09+00:00

How a Dentist Can Restore Damaged Teeth

As a local dentist in Indianapolis, we have multiple ways to restore damaged teeth. If your tooth has become cracked, chipped, the enamel has worn away, or it is sensitive, we can address this problem using several methods. We believe in providing patients with options and as such, here is what you need to know.

Dental Restoration Options

Dental Crowns

If the tooth has severe damage, dental crowns are an ideal solution for restoring it because a crown surrounds the tooth entirely. By preventing anything from touching the natural tooth, the patient can bite down with force and eat all of his or her favorite foods without worrying about compromising the tooth or feeling discomfort.

Now, we offer all-ceramic and ceramic-on-metal crowns so that people can have the restoration they need while maintaining the natural appearance of the tooth. We can provide patients with a new crown or replace existing ones as necessary.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are available for addressing many of the same problems that a dental crown can solve. Instead of surrounding the tooth, we place a veneer on the surface of the tooth. As a dentist, we will often recommend this solution if the damage is less severe.

If there is no need to completely surround the tooth, a veneer can be beneficial because the tooth requires preparation in the front instead of on all sides. This makes the procedure less invasive overall.

Bonding

We can add the natural colored bonding material to the tooth and shape the tooth in the dental chair. Thus, we can provide chairside restorations where the tooth requires little to no preparation. A bonding procedure is advantageous for those that are too busy to consider getting dental crowns or veneers.

While effective, one challenge with bonding is that over time stains may develop where the bonding material and natural tooth connect. Since we place both materials on the tooth, some patients also notice that there becomes a color difference between the natural and synthetic material, causing a tooth to appear stained.

As a dentist in Indianapolis, we can perform all of these restorations with relative ease and ensure that the tooth looks completely natural once done. This makes it possible for our patients to have teeth that look fantastic and are also incredibly durable. Since there are unique advantages to each solution, we recommend that you come in for a consultation if you are considering doing something to restore your teeth. Whether they have become damaged or you simply do not like their appearance, we can help you to love your smile again using one or a combination of these options.

In fact, if you are having several teeth corrected, you don’t have to use one solution for all of them. You may benefit by having a dental crown restore a tooth that is overly sensitive due to a lack of enamel while having dental veneers placed next to it to close gaps in between your teeth. We can create a customized treatment plan for your exact needs.

How a Dentist Can Restore Damaged Teethadmin2024-01-25T10:40:10+00:00

A Cosmetic Dentist Can Close Gaps in Your Teeth

As a cosmetic dentist in Indianapolis, we correct a variety of challenges that people have with their teeth, among them closing unsightly gaps. This is a fairly common problem to have. Many people end up with gaps in between their teeth due to the timing of when their baby teeth fell out and the other teeth subsequently moving out of their intended position. For others, this is simply how their teeth formed. Regardless of why the gap exists, it can detract from a beautiful smile and make a person embarrassed to smile fully.

Whether you have several small gaps or a few large ones, we can help. In our dental office, we have numerous tools to correct cosmetic issues with your teeth and this is simply one of them. Many people mistakenly think that they need to wear braces to close gaps between their teeth. While this is certainly an option, it is not the only option. Our solutions are faster and less obvious while producing similar results.

The solutions we use to close gaps in between your teeth

As a cosmetic dentist, we can use both dental veneers and dental crowns to close the gaps in between your teeth. The exception is if these gaps are actually caused by missing teeth, in which case a dental bridge or dental implants are preferable.

The process of closing the gap

When you visit our office for a consultation, we will determine which solution will work best for closing the gaps in between your teeth. In the case of dental veneers or a dental crown, we will do the following.

As a Indianapolis cosmetic dentist, we will begin by taking an impression of the patient’s teeth. We need the impression to include the teeth that are causing the gap along with the ones around them. We will also take measurements and go over a shade card with the patient. During this time, the patient needs to let us know what shade of veneer he or she wants. We can whiten the patient’s teeth before placing the veneers to match them for a brighter smile.

Since they consist of a bleach-resistant material, it is important to undergo the whitening procedure first. Next, the measurements, impression, and instructions will be sent to the lab to create the permanent veneers or crowns.

In the meantime, we will remove a portion of the enamel from the teeth. When closing gaps, the two teeth surrounding the gap will need to have a restoration. In the case of dental veneers, we will remove a portion of the enamel from the surface of the tooth. In the case of dental crowns, we must remove the enamel from all sides of the tooth since a crown surrounds it completely.

Patients will then wear a temporary until the permanent solution is ready to bond to the teeth. We can place both veneers and crowns on the teeth surrounding the gap. Due to the increase in size, we can close the gap in a way that is entirely natural looking. We can complete all of this in a month or less. Patients can visit us instead of wearing braces for two years.

A Cosmetic Dentist Can Close Gaps in Your Teethadmin2024-01-25T10:40:11+00:00

A Smile Can Reflect One’s True Beauty

You can have the picture perfect smile by visiting a cosmetic dentist. We can help you have perfect teeth.

Cosmetic Dentist

A cosmetic dentist can correct alignment issues, crooked teeth and more. If you want to enhance your smile, then give us a call. We can ensure a healthier and brighter smile through multiple possible procedures.

Mass Ave Family Dentistry

At Mass Ave Family Dentistry in Indianapolis, we work to customize your treatment to match your needs and schedule where possible. Our professional team aims to create a calm atmosphere for you during the appointment and treatment process. We will identify any dental issues you are struggling with and work with you to find the solution that works best for you.

Our team seeks to create a comforting environment at the office to ease patients into the procedure. We can help prevent damage to your teeth and set you on track for a lifetime of quality oral health. At Mass Ave Family Dentistry, your dental health is our prime concern.

A Smile Can Reflect One’s True Beautyadmin2024-01-25T10:40:12+00:00

Routine Dental Care Is Essential For Healthy Teeth

Don’t ruin your weekend with dental health issues. Keep up regular routine dental care for a healthier life

Routine Dental Care

Routine dental care is important for a healthy set of teeth. While we can provide routine dental care during appointments, you need to keep it up at home through brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.

Mass Ave Family Dentistry

Routine Dental Care Is Essential For Healthy Teethadmin2024-01-25T10:40:13+00:00

What You Need to Know About Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a popular dental tool that seems almost magical. Teeth whitening seems to be able to turn back the clock, undo stains, create a brighter smile, raise confidence and more. Since brushing and flossing do not seem to improve the overall shade of teeth, whitening solutions are becoming more and more popular. Yet, store-bought solutions do not seem to have a strong effect. Fortunately, we can provide a professional whitening service that works wonders on a smile.

More than just a trend

The infatuation with teeth whitening has led to the growth of an extremely lucrative industry across the nation. From cosmetic dentist solutions to over-the-counter toothpaste, teeth whitening continues to grow as a solution many people invest in for a better smile. While some of our patients come in for teeth whitening solutions, others prefer a do-it-yourself regime. In either eventuality, we strive to keep our patients educated.

First, it is important to understand the process of how teeth whitening works. The peroxide-based solution we use to whiten teeth dissolves into the tooth, where it releases free radicals. These free radicals work to make the tooth more translucent. The more translucent a tooth, the whiter it looks. However, food and other substances work to stain the tooth by covering up the translucency. We are constantly reminding our patients that what one eats and the amount of oral hygiene play a pivotal role in how long the teeth whitening remains effective.

Most people are aware that they need to take care of their teeth and will not do things like smoking. On the other hand, many people do not realize that normally healthy foods, such as raspberries, can actually cause discoloration in teeth. We can help patients take preventative measures and keep brighter teeth.

Preventing teeth from fading

There are many ways common habits can spoil the effects of teeth whitening. All foods have a pH level. The lower the pH level, the more acidic the substance and the more likely it is to adversely affect one’s teeth. The problem is that the teeth will constantly be in contact with the harmful kinds of substances since we all need to eat. An easy way to help prevent this is to brush 30 minutes or so after eating. By doing so, any excessive bacterial acid can be washed away before it influences the enamel.

This can be particularly challenging for people who like to snack regularly. Snacking is one of the most damaging habits people have when it comes to darkening the shade of their teeth. Regardless of the type of snack, all food contains natural or added coloring, which works to color the teeth. Few people think it is necessary to brush their teeth, or at least rinse, after a snack, and this is what causes discoloration.

For more information, give us a call to schedule an appointment and decide if teeth whitening is right for you.

Teeth Whitening

At Mass Ave Family Dentistry, we provide teeth whitening solutions for patients throughout the Indianapolis, IN area. We deliver dramatic results, and your teeth can become up to eight shades whiter in one treatment.

Teeth Whitening

Mass Ave Family Dentistry

What You Need to Know About Teeth Whiteningadmin2024-01-25T10:40:14+00:00

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