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When you are thinking about beautifying your smile, it helps to first clarify your main objectives. What do you hope to accomplish with your cosmetic dental treatment? Do you hope to straighten, whiten, or balance your smile? There are lots of treatment choices that are designed to enhance various aspects of your smile, but your results will be most successful and most attractive when you choose one treatment option that can address multiple aspects at once.
For many patients, porcelain veneers are the answer to a long list of cosmetic challenges. They are a versatile choice that can provide you with nearly instant results that can keep you smiling beautifully for years. So, how can one cosmetic procedure satisfy so many desires for so many patients? Take a look at the characteristics of porcelain veneers: Custom Shaping: Veneers can be shaped, down to the tiniest detail, to complement the rest of your smile. Whether your teeth are longer, wider, rounded, or squared, your cosmetic dentist can design one veneer or several veneers in shapes that appear natural and feel comfortable. Custom Shading: Not all teeth are ultra-bright white. Some have yellowish, brown, or gray undertones. For the most realistic and natural look, you’ll want your veneers to blend well with the shade of your real teeth. This can be easily accomplished due to porcelain’s ability to be expertly shaded. Even very white veneers can be shaded to appear more or less translucent for a more natural result. Space Management: Veneers are an efficient way to close gaps between the teeth or correct teeth that appear to be crowded together, all without braces or oral surgery. Incredible Durability: The porcelain that is used to make veneers is exceptionally strong, an important characteristic since your teeth have hard work to do in addition to looking beautiful. We are in an exciting new, modern age in dentistry in which you only need to state your goals and our cosmetic dentist can recommend the solutions that will help you to achieve them. Schedule a consultation today with Dr. John M. Hucklebridge to find out how porcelain veneers may be helpful.
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Eat your favorite foods and enjoy life again with beautiful, permanent teeth... Bad teeth and ill-fitting dentures can make it difficult or impossible to chew. Loose dentures can come off when you’re eating or in the middle of a conversation. Damaged teeth often make it painful to eat. Instead of enjoying meals, you may lose your appetite because your diet is restricted to soft, mushy foods. Over time, poor diet leads to poor nutrition and reduced quality of life. What’s life if you can’t eat the foods you love? Let your Plano dentist restore your mouth to full health and beauty with solutions like bridges, partial/complete dentures, implant-retained dentures, and dental implants. Dr. Hucklebridge is one of the few dentists in the area offering comprehensive dental services in one location. We perform oral surgery right here in the office, so you don’t have to run around town. Bridges A bridge fills the space left by a missing tooth. The device is composed of an artificial tooth and one or more abutment teeth covered with dental crowns. The replacement tooth is made of durable, natural-looking porcelain that blends seamlessly with your remaining teeth. Partial and Complete Dentures Partial dentures are used if you have some teeth remaining, while complete dentures are used if all of your teeth are missing. Dentures are affordable and effective. They replace missing teeth, support your facial muscles and restore your ability to chew and speak normally. However, they need to be adjusted and replaced over time. Plano Dental Implants Dental implants are small, biocompatible screws that replace your natural tooth roots. Because implants are designed to fuse with your own bone, they are the most secure and long-lasting foundation for permanent crowns or dentures. Implant-Retained Dentures Dental implants are excellent anchors for partial and complete dentures. Instead of removable dentures that sit on your gums, implant-retained dentures are fixed and secure. Most dental experts recommend implant-retained dentures over basic dentures for comfort and function. Contact our dental clinic in Plano, TX to learn more about teeth replacement options. Call at 972-398-2550 or Contact us to request an appointment. Beautiful, healthy teeth from your Plano, TX dentist
Bad teeth can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. You may find yourself smiling less and less, or avoiding social interactions altogether. It’s time to end the misery. Leading Plano dentist Dr. Hucklebridge offers many solutions to teeth damaged by neglect, accident or disease. Our full-service dental clinic provides everything from teeth whitening to high-quality, beautiful restorations. Whether you need a quick touchup or a full mouth reconstruction, we can help. Dr. Hucklebridge is known for his extensive experience in cosmetic dentistry and the quality of his work. He makes sure that you are completely happy before proceeding with treatment. Get started on the road to your dream smile today! Teeth Whitening Teeth discoloration is caused by age, certain medical conditions, and stain-promoting foods and drinks (coffee, tea, tobacco, etc.). Dr. Hucklebridge restores your teeth’s brightness with a professional bleaching process that is tailored to each patient. He offers in-office laser-assisted teeth whitening (including Zoom bleaching) and at-home, dentist-supervised whitening. Both methods produce dramatic results that last a long time. Porcelain Veneers Porcelain veneers are thin laminates that are cemented to the front of the tooth. Veneers hide teeth stains, cracks, chips, gaps, and other major imperfections. Our custom Empress porcelain veneers mimic the properties of real enamel and are twice as strong as standard veneers. The procedure also requires very minimal tooth reduction. Smile Makeovers Dr. Hucklebridge is one of the few cosmetic dentists in Plano, TX offering comprehensive smile makeovers. Depending on what you want to achieve, he may combine tooth-colored fillings with crowns and veneers, or dental implants and teeth whitening. The goal is not just beautiful teeth, but healthy smiles that last a lifetime. Visit Plano Smile Studio today or call 972-398-2550 to schedule a consultation. You can also request an appointment using our contact us form. Experience Comfortable Dentistry at Plano Smile Studio. Many Americans fear going to the dentist, and some postpone treatment until absolutely necessary. Common reasons are fear of the sounds and smells in the dental clinic, and fear of pain. We understand your anxiety about dental work, and how it can be daunting to show up for a routine checkup, let alone a complicated procedure like dental implant surgery. This is why Plano dentist Dr. Hucklebridge designed our office to be a stress-free zone where you can get treated in complete comfort. Here’s how we make every visit pleasant: Spa Atmosphere We are not your typical dental clinic. From the moment you step into our smile studio, you’ll notice the difference: relaxing Zen design, soothing music, soft mood lighting, state-of-the-art operatories and other amenities dedicated to your comfort. Our warm, friendly staff members make every appointment worry-free. Our “one patient at a time” policy ensures that you receive personalized, exceptional dental care. Sedation Dentistry Your Plano dentist offers sedation dentistry to help anxious patients reach an ultimate level of comfort. Dr. Hucklebridge will give you a mild sedative pill (oral sedation) about 30 minutes before your procedure. It will make you relax and forget about your fears. Some patients fall asleep, but they are conscious and easily awakened by the dentist. Stringent Infection Control Our number one goal is your safety. We use the latest infection control and sterilization techniques including daily water line sterilization, the use of disposable items, special waste containers, and frequent hand washing. Advanced Technology We aim to give you the most comfortable experience through sophisticated treatment methods. Cutting-edge procedures and the latest technology mean precise treatment planning and virtually painless procedures. Say goodbye to painful procedures and dental anxiety. Schedule a consultation with your Plano dentist by calling 972-398-2550 or using our contact us form. There is just something about a wide, healthy smile that makes you feel as great as you look. That kind of full and open smile can light up your entire face, making you appear more pleasant and confident. But, what if you have all of your teeth and your smile just doesn’t “pop”? What are your options if you feel that your teeth are crowded together, making your smile appear more constricted than you would like?
Your cosmetic dentist will likely recommend veneers as an option for broadening your smile. In fact, veneers are the most commonly recommended and most frequently requested treatment solution for correcting a host of cosmetic flaws. If your smile doesn’t have the esthetic characteristics that you desire, you’ll be pleased to learn that your desires are not beyond your reach. Without disrupting the roots of your natural teeth, veneers can be used to completely reshape the part of each tooth that shows when you speak or smile. For each front tooth, an individual porcelain veneer can be sculpted to change that tooth’s dimensions. Teeth can be made to look wider, longer, squared at the edges, rounded, or even shorter. These dramatic and impressive changes to the front teeth can be achieved by laminating or bonding a very thin layer of porcelain to the front of each tooth. It is a permanent solution that can last for years with good oral hygiene habits and routine dental care. Porcelain is a strong restorative material that will not break down and separate from the tooth in the presence of normal foods and beverages. Plus, the texture, color, and strength of the porcelain is more similar to real enamel than any other restorative material. A narrow smile can be easily widened and corrected with modern cosmetic solutions like veneers. In the process, you may wish to address the other factors that might be keeping your smile from looking its best. Fortunately, veneers are a dynamic solution that can resolve multiple issues at once. Why not schedule a consultation with our cosmetic dentist, Dr. John M. Hucklebridge, today to discuss your options? If a healthy body is important to you, you might devote a great deal of your time to working out, eating right, and other activities that are geared to better physical fitness. However, a healthy body starts with a healthy mouth, and neglecting your oral health can derail your efforts and sabotage your long-term health.
Just as you may turn to your physician, chiropractor, or Pilates instructor for help with your physical fitness regimen, don’t forget that your dentist has a lot to contribute as well. With just one dental visit, you will discover that you have access to the personalized oral health information that could literally save your life. Keeping your mouth healthy is a responsibility that can be achieved by keeping it free from plaque and tarter, cavities, and even missing teeth. Almost every form of dental disease comes with consequences that can eventually impact the rest of your body, including your heart and your immune system. Our bodies function best when inflammation is reduced or eliminated. Unfortunately, gum disease is marked by chronic inflammation. Bleeding and swollen gums are the hallmarks of gum disease (periodontal disease), and the long-term irritation can send your immune system into a tailspin. In fact, as your immune system fights to unsuccessfully control the bacterial infection, it is unable to ward off the other factors that could threaten your health. During this time, you are more likely to get sick, suffer from complications with diabetes and pregnancy, have a stroke, or a heart attack. Other illnesses such as oral cancer that may start in the mouth or throat can progress quickly and without your knowledge to affect other parts of your body. Did you know that tooth loss is also considered to be a form of dental disease? Missing teeth can signal a decline in your health since it directly affects your ability to receive proper nutrition as well as chew and digest your food. Whole health includes your oral health. To find out more about where you stand, contact Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550 to set up a dental appointment today. Sedation dentistry is becoming increasingly popular among dentists and their patients alike. Many patients need the comfort of the deeply relaxing medications to overcome dental anxiety.
When providing sedation, the dentist is administering an anti-anxiety drug to help put the patient at ease. Patients may feel as though they’re asleep while under sedation—and they won’t remember anything afterward—but they’re actually conscious the entire time. This is why many patients prefer sedation to general anesthesia. Sedation, which is almost always accompanied by a local anesthetic, can be useful in varying circumstances, and the need for sedation dentistry may be unique to that particular patient. Especially fearful patients may need sedation in order to be able to undergo a procedure as simple as a routine cleaning. Patients facing lengthy procedures or multiple interventions can also benefit from sedation, which will allow them to tolerate longer appointments. Once you’ve decided on sedation, you will need to choose your preferred method. The medications can be delivered intravenously or in pill form. Patients can also inhale gaseous nitrous oxide for a sedative effect. Each method has different characteristics. Some take effect more quickly, for example. Discuss the different methods with your dentist in advance so that you can select the one that meets your most important requirements. It’s also important to know what you will need to do to prepare for sedation and what to expect afterward. Patients who opt for IV sedation will need to fast for several hours before the appointment. Those who prefer oral sedatives will need to give the pill enough time to take effect before the scheduled procedure. Furthermore, all patients who use sedation will need to have someone accompany them home from the appointment. The effects of the medication won’t wear off in enough time for you to drive. Patients who have avoided the dentist out of fear or anxiety are encouraged to consider sedation dentistry to help them get the dental care they need. Patients facing complex procedures may also benefit from this approach to dental care. To learn more about your sedation options, contact our dental team at Plano Smile Studio today. Call 972-398-2550 to schedule your visit. Your mother or your nail technician may have encouraged you to avoid nail-biting because it can make your hands look so unattractive. However, your dentist may also suggest that you quit for a more important reason. It has often been said that it takes 21 days to break a bad habit, but most patients who become aware of the dental issues caused by nail-biting are motivated to quit the habit much sooner.
Nail-biting is commonly associated with a nervous habit, anxiety, or stress. It’s a subconscious habit that can range from mild or infrequent to severe and chronic. Most patients are unaware of how often they are chewing the fingernails, pens, pencils, or other potentially dangerous objects. They are your own nails. Just how dangerous can they be? Take a moment to consider the potential consequences: A physical injury or even an infection of the gums, lips, cheeks, or tongue is commonly seen when a sharp fingernail accidentally scrapes the soft tissues inside the mouth. Chronic nail-biting can impact the position of your jaw, the alignment of the teeth, and the appearance of your smile. To grasp the nail between the teeth, you must force your teeth and jaws into an unnatural or exaggerated position. This can certainly lead to a developmental issue as the teeth and jaws begin to adapt to their new positions. Similar to patients who clench or grind the teeth, nail-biters may begin to experience facial pain, joint pain, headaches, and sensitive teeth. These symptoms are mainly due to the long-term stress on the muscles, joints, and ligaments that control the face and mouth. In fact many nail-biters begin to experience clenching and grinding at night, even during sleep, when the fingernails are not in the mouth at all. The constant grinding of the teeth against the nail contributes to chipped and worn enamel. This weakens the teeth and can create cosmetic problems and sensitivity issues. Your dentist understands the risks of nail-biting, but also recognizes its relationship to a stress and anxiety. It is possible to end the habit as well as repair any damage that may have resulted. Schedule an appointment with Dr. John M. Hucklebridge, serving Plano and surrounding areas, today for help. Thanks to the versatile nature of porcelain veneers, almost any aspect of your smile can be enhanced. With help from your cosmetic dentist, the alignment, shape, color, or length of your teeth can be modified to achieve a more esthetic and natural result.
However, once your new smile is finalized, how well will it stand the test of time? When challenged by various foods, moisture, medications, beverages, or chemicals, you may wonder how well your veneers are able to resist staining and discoloration. Fortunately, porcelain veneers are exceptionally durable and highly resistant to staining. To appreciate the stain-resistant quality of veneers, it helps to understand how your veneers will be prepared. In the dental lab, high-quality dental-grade porcelain and ceramics are milled and fired at extremely high temperatures. During this process, the surface of the porcelain will take on a less porous, glass-like quality that will be able to withstand the impact of various elements. With the veneers permanently bonded to your teeth, you will be able to follow a normal oral hygiene routine. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups can keep your veneers in good shape, and you will be free to eat and drink the foods and beverages of your choice. Your veneers are designed to stand up to a normal diet, toothpastes, mouthwashes and medications. It is important to note that porcelain is stain resistant, but not stain proof. To extend the life and the appearance of your new smile, you may be advised to limit your consumption of those foods and habits that could be expected to stain and discolor your natural teeth. This includes smoking, red wine, teas, and coffee. Adhering to the same precautions that you would apply to your natural teeth, it’s best to rinse with water or brush (if possible) after you have enjoyed snacks and drinks. Porcelain veneers are designed to give you a new reason to smile. They are also designed to be low-maintenance and enjoyable. With reasonable care, there is no reason to worry about stains and discoloration. Talk to our team at Plano Smile Studio to learn more about the attractive qualities of veneers. Call 972-398-2550 to schedule your professional consultation today. As you plan for your upcoming dental procedure, you’ll likely be interested in how you will feel once the visit is over. If you are planning to opt for sedation dentistry, you may need to reserve a little extra time for the recovery period. That’s because, in addition to some lingering numbness or a tired jaw, you may also feel a little drowsy or sleepy.
Your sedation dentist will help you to select the sedative method that will be safest and most effective for you. Your options may include oral medications, inhaled sedation, or IV sedation. Depending upon the type of sedation, the dosage that is recommended for you and also your personal metabolism rate, your recovery time could range from a few moments to several hours. During that time, most patients tend to feel relatively sleepy or groggy following the dental visit. In light of these side effects, driving and operating machinery should be avoided until you feel completely alert. In fact, patients who expect to be sedated are generally asked to be accompanied by an adult who is willing to monitor their safety after the dental visit. Your companion will need to remain at the dental office throughout your treatment and should be prepared to drive you home as well. Although the side effects of most sedative options can be expected to linger, there is an exception to the rule. Laughing gas (technically known as nitrous oxide) is quickly eliminated from your system when you begin breathing oxygenated air. Patients who are under the influence of laughing gas will generally feel normal again before they leave the dental office. Sometimes, sedation is recommended when the dental procedure is expected to be lengthy or particularly extensive. The sedatives will help you to relax for an extended period of time. Under these circumstances, the length of the recovery period may be influenced by the extent of the procedure more so than the effects of the sedatives. Learn more about planning your post-operative recovery by contacting the office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge. Thirty years ago, dental implant surgery was reserved for a small and select group of candidates. The surgical procedure was far less sophisticated and the recovery time was somewhat lengthy. Today, with the help of modern technology, the procedure is a restorative option that is available to a broader group of candidates. Terms such as precision, safety, efficiency, predictability, and minimally invasive are now used to describe the procedure for the placement of the implants.
With that, the surgery is smoother and faster, and patients can expect a speedier recovery period. In fact, many patients find that they are able to return to work relatively quickly. The day after surgery, you may feel comfortable enough to resume your normal activities, though you may be advised to postpone very rigorous or strenuous work for a few days. The extent of your recovery may also be influenced by the medications that have been prescribed for you. Certain prescription pain relievers are known to cause drowsiness or sleepiness. According to the advice of your implant dentist or pharmacist, you may need to avoid driving and any other responsibilities that could compromise your safety while you are under the influence of these medications. The state of your general health prior to your implant surgery can also influence the speed of your recovery. When underlying health conditions are under control, your body will be able to recover more rapidly following your surgery. Rest, relaxation, and nutrition are also important contributing factors to the speed at which you can expect life to return to normal. Though you’ll probably feel fine, try to reserve the remainder of the day for plenty of rest in a stress-free environment. This will promote healing and help to ensure that you have the energy to return to work. During the surgical procedure, local anesthetics and sedatives will be used to keep you comfortable. Once you arrive at home, you will be responsible for adhering to the post-operative instructions which have been designed to speed the healing process and get you back to a normal routine as soon as possible. Learn more about what to expect by calling Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550 to schedule a consultation with our implant dentist today. Aesthetic concerns with the smile can have wide-ranging effects on a patient’s quality of life. If you are interested in upgrading your smile, a cosmetic dentist can provide a variety of interventions to address many problems that detract from your appearance. Some patients can get their desired outcomes from minor treatments, while others may need more complex work, involving the combination of a number of interventions. The cosmetic dentist can give you guidance on which devices or techniques will be most beneficial in your case. Here’s an overview of some of the treatments that your cosmetic dentist may recommend. Porcelain veneers – These thin, tooth-shaped shells can cover up any number of blemishes, from stains to chips to cracks. Veneers can even be used to bring slightly crooked teeth into the proper alignment. Patients can see the results of porcelain veneers in as few as two appointments. Veneers are also remarkably durable and can last for a decade with adequate maintenance. Dental implants – Dental implants are titanium posts that replace the roots of missing teeth. They provide the base of a replacement tooth that offers a remarkably lifelike appliance for filling in an empty space left behind by a lost tooth. The implant is topped with an abutment that serves as a base that anchors the prosthetic crown. Dental implants are surgically placed in the jaw, and the titanium fuses with the bone as the patient heals, offering a permanent solution for tooth loss. Teeth whitening – For patients who are merely dissatisfied with the shade of their smile, teeth whitening can have a major impact. Teeth whitening treatments use bleaching gels to erase stains from the teeth and brighten the smile. Patients can complete these treatments in the comfort of their own homes or see results in as little as an hour, courtesy of the ZOOM! Teeth Whitening system available in our office. In addition to using these treatments, your cosmetic dentist may also need to collaborate with other specialists, such as orthodontists, periodontists or oral surgeons, to complete a comprehensive smile makeover. If you’ve resigned yourself to being ashamed of your smile, consider how cosmetic dentistry might be able to give you the smile of your dreams. Contact Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550 and schedule a consultation to learn more about what options you may have. Porcelain veneers are a remarkably versatile tool in cosmetic dentistry. They can be used to conceal unsightly damage to a tooth, to re-contour an undersized or misshapen tooth or even as “instant orthodontics,” straightening out a slightly crooked group of teeth.
Patients with new veneers are eager to show off their enhanced smiles, but at the same time, they want to be sure to extend the devices’ longevity by caring for them properly. The last thing a patient wants is to have to make a return trip to the cosmetic dentist to get veneers repaired or be fitted for new ones. Veneers are made of thin porcelain layers, so patients may think that they are fragile. Typically, that is not true. In fact, veneers can last for up to a decade when you maintain them properly. Veneers are permanently bonded to the teeth using a strong dental adhesive. The adhesive is often cured with light to strengthen the attachment. This characteristic gives veneers their strength. In many ways, taking care of the veneers is the same as taking care of your natural teeth. To protect your new veneers, a little bit of common sense will go a long way. Don’t bite directly into any hard foods, like apples, or non-food objects. Take steps to prevent trauma to the mouth, such as wearing a mouthguard while playing contact sports. Kick bad habits that can potentially harm your teeth, like nail biting or smoking. Your daily oral hygiene routine will remain the same, too, and it’s just as important for veneers as for your biological teeth. Brush twice a day, using proper technique, and floss daily. See your dentist at six-month intervals for exams and cleanings. When you visit the dentist, let the hygienist know that you have veneers. Some instruments and cleaning materials could harm your veneers, and the hygienist might need to adjust the routine cleaning techniques. If you are considering veneers and would like more information about the treatment process, contact the office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge to schedule your professional consultation today. Anxiety and apprehension are common emotions experienced by millions of dental patients each year. The sights, sounds, and smells of the dental office can be overwhelming and unfamiliar, and the anticipation of pain keeps many patients from receiving routine dental care.
Fortunately, there have been a number of advancements in all aspects of the dental field, including sedation dentistry, enabling many patients to put their dental phobias to rest. With your sedation dentist, even your fear of needles can be alleviated with a wide range of injection-free anesthetic options. For non-invasive dental procedures, topical anesthetics such as gels and mouth rinses may be used to numb the surface of the soft tissues without the use of an injection. For patients who are nervous or apprehensive prior to the dental visit, Valium may be prescribed to eliminate the pre-treatment jitters. In the dental office, valium or other anti-anxiety medications may be administered in order to keep you comfortable in the dental chair. These medications may be combined with commonly prescribed pain relievers if necessary. Orally administered medications or inhalation sedation (such as laughing gas) can be used to lull you into a deep state of relaxation while still enabling you to respond to verbal commands. You will also retain your ability to breathe and swallow on your own while under the influence of these sedatives. Without requiring needles or injections, these alternatives are known as conscious sedation and are widely accepted for patients of all ages. The medications are safe and have very few side effects. Should you select these conscious sedation options, you can expect to experience drowsiness or sleepiness and you will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult driver. This safety measure is required in order to ensure that you arrive to your appointment and back home safely. For more extensive dental procedures, a deeper form of sedation may be required. The medications used for general sedation are typically administered intravenously, and may also be combined with other anti-anxiety medications for your comfort. Learn more about your injection-free options by contacting Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550 for an appointment today. John: Hi, I’m Dr. John Hucklebridge; I’ve been practicing cosmetic, implant, and general dentistry for over 20 years. I feel like our practice is very unique here. We see one patient at a time. That’s real important to our patients, they really appreciate that. We see our patients on time. We actually call our patients if we’re running behind, and let them know that you might be 10 minutes, 15 minutes late, and they really appreciate that as well. Many of our patients are not only local patients, but they come from all over Texas and around the world. We guarantee our work for ten years, so if anything happens out of the ordinary, if you break a crown, or things like that we’re happy to replace it for you.
We have a state-of-the-art facility. We offer all different types of cosmetic dentistry including Invisalign, a clear alternative to braces. We have offer teeth whitening, Zoom, it’s America’s number one Zoom whitening. Our practice is also unique in that we have our own in office laboratory where we actually have, when we’re doing complex cosmetic cases, we can actually go in and have our own ceramists custom stain these crowns to make them look very life like. We’ve found this to be the best alternative due to the fact that it just enhances the overall experience for the patient. We truly love what we do here, being in practice for 20 years, we’ve had a lot of opportunity to build significant relationships with our patients. We try to create a nice caring friendly atmosphere for our patients. We feel like it’s more of a family atmosphere. So those are just some of the things that really separate our practice apart from other practices you might choose to go to. If you’ve ever had any questions or concerns, we offer complementary consultations and second opinions. When it comes to repairing damaged teeth, patients prefer the use of the most lifelike materials possible. After all, a visibly artificial restoration is almost as detrimental to the smile’s appearance as the crack or chip it’s intended to conceal.
Porcelain veneers are particularly popular for aesthetically pleasing dental work. A cosmetic dentist can use veneers to cover up any number of problems, including chips, cracks or stains, when conventional whitening treatments have been ineffective. Veneers can even help to straighten misaligned teeth. Porcelain is an excellent choice for veneers for a number of reasons. First, porcelain reflects light in a fashion similar to tooth enamel. This gives the material a lifelike aesthetic, and makes it hard to discern a veneer apart from the real tooth next to it. Porcelain veneers are also much more durable than you would expect. People think of porcelain as a fragile material, but when used in veneers, it is sturdy enough to last for a decade or more. In fact, porcelain is comparable to biological tooth enamel in terms of durability. To maximize the benefits and lifespan of veneers, proper care is essential. Be sure to maintain consistent oral hygiene habits to minimize the presence of bacteria that may compromise the tooth as well as any veneers you have. The thin, tooth-shaped shells are slim enough to sit atop the teeth after the removal of a small layer of enamel, which creates room for the veneers. Depending on the thickness of the veneer, this step may or may not be necessary. The treatment process involved in veneers is speedy. It can be completed in as little as two appointments, separated by just a few weeks. Veneers are placed right in the dentist’s office, too. Patients who want to restore a marred smile will want to look into porcelain veneers and all of the benefits they offer. Contact the office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge to find out if this treatment option will be beneficial to you. If you are planning to have a tooth extracted, or if you have already had a tooth removed, you should be well-aware of your options for replacing that missing tooth. Taking your long-term health and expectations under consideration, you can choose the tooth replacement that will be best for you. Then, with your implant dentist, you can develop a strategy for setting your plan in motion.
Although dental implants are typically the first choice for tooth replacement, it’s not a matter of simply placing an artificial tooth into an empty space. Instead, you’ll need to consider your overall dental health. How many natural teeth are remaining, and what is the long-term prognosis for those teeth? How healthy are the gums and the underlying bone? How strong is your commitment to daily oral hygiene? Are you healthy enough for surgery? How much have you budgeted for dental care? If you are interested in alternatives to dental implants, such as a fixed bridge or a removable partial denture, your care may include fillings, root canals, and periodontal treatments in order to stabilize the teeth that will support your bridgework. That’s because your bridge or partial will only be as stable as the teeth that are used to anchor it. No tooth replacement solution is without limitations. Bridges and partials can create excessive stress on the neighboring teeth and gums. These restorations are also at risk for breaking or needing to be replaced in the future. If the supporting teeth are damaged or need to be extracted, the bridge or partial may no longer be functional. Dental implants are designed to last for a lifetime and should not need to be replaced. Routine dental care and diligent homecare will be required in order to prevent bone loss and implant failure. With far fewer limitations than any other tooth replacement solutions, dental implants continue to be the most ideal alternative to your natural teeth. Contact the office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge today to learn more about your options and find out which one is right for you. Dr. Hucklebridge: When I was 15, I decided that I was looking at art and science, and I like both of them. So, I thought that dentistry would probably be a good combination of both of them.
Narrator: In the 20 years since, Dr. Hucklebridge has raised his medical expertise to an art form as technology has changed. Dr. Hucklebridge: With the advent of the new porcelains, materials, bonding agents, that’s what’s really catapulted dentistry into the cosmetic arena. My emphasis, in my practice, is cosmetic dentistry. That’s where my passion is. Do I practice general dentistry? Absolutely. As far as the type of dentistry that I like to do, smile makeovers, Invisalign, clear braces, implants, teeth whitening, those are all components of cosmetic dentistry, and that’s what we emphasis in our practice. Narrator: Dr. Hucklebridge and his staff are intent on helping each patient decide what will bring the best result. Stephanie: We try to treat all of our patients like they are part of our family. He treats, and I treat, our patients like they’re family members – how we’d want our family to be treated. Dr. Hucklebridge: I like to do everything. As far as the number one procedure that is my favorite, I would have to say full mouth reconstruction. Taking someone that has that debilitated smile, someone who’s had self-confidence issues, esteem issues, and completely revamping that smile and making that person proud to smile and giving them self-esteem that they never had. Narrator: Like this patient. Dr. Hucklebridge: Jason came to me. Actually, I was called in the middle of the night. Jason had an accident. He lost several teeth in the front along with some bone. So, along with working with some excellent specialist here in town, we went in and did some bone augmentation. We had to do some tissue augmentation on top of the bone. We actually had to go in and temporize Jason for months. Once all that healed, we were actually able to place the implants in the areas that we had removed the teeth, and then we had to wait for that to heal. Once that healed, we went in and restored him with porcelain crowns on teeth that we could save, and implant crowns on teeth that we couldn’t. The case turned out great. Jason: I come to John, and I don’t stray from that, because he is the ultimate perfectionist. He absolutely demands that every bit of my mouth, from the guns, to the teeth, to the shape, to the color, has got to be perfect. Carolyn: He’s not satisfied until he has it just right, and even if he thinks it’s fine he wants to make sure you like it. Stephanie: We do see only one patient at a time. Dr. Hucklebridge may have to excuse himself to a hygiene patient, but he’s not doing any other treatment up against our patients. Dr. Hucklebridge: I never aspired to have the model of dentistry where I was going from room to room. I want my one-hundred percent focus to be on the patient that I’m with at that period of time, and from start to finish and run on time, so my next patient doesn’t wait. It’s worked out well the way I want to practice. You know, I love what I do, and I just absolutely love it. Jason: I’ve done the due diligence for you. Just walk in there and you’ll walk out happy. Bleeding is never a sign of good health. Instead, it’s an inflammatory response that alerts you when your body is trying to recover from some form of trauma. It’s a sign that something is wrong. Identifying the cause of the bleeding and taking steps to resolve the issue can prevent the problem from becoming more advanced.
Discussing bleeding as well as your other symptoms with your dentist should be the first step towards resolving the problem. There are a number of factors that could contribute to the presence of bleeding during brushing: · Gum disease (even the very earliest stages of gum disease can cause inflammation and bleeding, symptoms may occur with or without pain) · Dry mouth ( when the gums around the front teeth are dry due to open-mouth breathing, medications, or health conditions, you may notice bleeding and constant inflammation that becomes more aggravated during brushing) · Incorrect Brushing Technique (aggressive brushing and/or hard toothbrush bristles can cause considerable and irreversible damage to both your gums and teeth) · Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, and other changes in hormone levels can cause sensitivity and bleeding and tenderness even with careful brushing and flossing) · Nutritional deficiencies/ Poor health (many underlying health conditions can affect the way that the body responds to plaque bacteria and other irritants, triggering excessive redness and bleeding) Although there are many treatable causes for bleeding gums, you should never ignore or dismiss your symptoms. Sometimes bleeding gums are a signal of an underlying, uncontrolled, or undiagnosed health condition. Seeking a professional dental evaluation as soon as possible can confirm the source of the bleeding and resolve a potentially harmful condition. Your condition may require further dental care, a change in your homecare habits, or a consultation with your physician. If you have noticed bleeding gums or any other abnormal symptoms, visit the office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge to schedule your professional dental exam. During pregnancy, it’s important to protect your overall health, and that certainly includes your dental health. In fact, it is recommended that women who are planning to become pregnant should be free from cavities and gum disease prior to conceiving.
In preparation for pregnancy, during pregnancy, and during the months following the birth, your dentist is prepared to provide the appropriate dental care for your changing needs. Current research has shown a strong link between certain dental diseases and the outcome of the pregnancy. Studies indicate an increase in the incidence rate of low birth-weight babies and pre-term deliveries in mothers who have uncontrolled periodontal disease. Aside from gum disease, there are a number of other dental conditions that are frequently seen during pregnancy: · Hormonal changes can lead to bleeding and inflammation (careful, but thorough plaque control each day can minimize inflammation) · Frequent eating and snacking can contribute to an increased risk for tooth decay (diligent brushing and flossing to remove plaque and food particles are essential during this time) · Acid reflux and nausea can lead to acid erosion and cavities (drinking or rinsing with water and chewing sugarless gum helps to neutralize harmful acids) · Dry mouth due to inflamed nasal passages and nighttime mouth breathing can lead to inflamed gums and tooth decay (increasing the water intake or using saliva substitutes will help to keep the tissues moisturized) A large part of maintaining excellent dental health during pregnancy is based on effective homecare and regularly scheduled dental visits. Though pregnancy is a busy and exciting time, it’s no time to avoid or postpone your dental care. You’ll need a strong support system in order to protect your health as well as the health of your new bundle of joy. With your dentist as part of your support system, you can keep your teeth healthy during your pregnancy and beyond. For your complete examination and checkup, call Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550. Few patients are actually excited about the thought of going to a dental appointment. In fact, most patients will admit that they usually love their dentists and the staff, but just don’t enjoy have dental work done. While some patients may be able to manage and work through these feelings, there are millions each year who find the anxiety difficult or impossible to overcome.
As an alternative to simply ignoring the need for dental care, an increasing number of patients are finding that sedation dentistry can provide the more appropriate solution. With sedation, even the most apprehensive patients can calm their fears and open the door to a wide range of dental procedures. From a routine dental cleaning to a surgical dental implant procedure, it is possible to relax in the dental chair, and even sleep, as your dental work is completed by a team of experienced professionals. There are a number of safe and commonly recommended methods to help you achieve relaxation, and these methods are available for both children and adults. The sedation alternative that is best for you will be dependent upon the extent of your apprehension and the current state of your overall health. You’ll need to discuss any underlying health conditions, allergies, and medications with your dentist during your consultation in order to receive the proper recommendation. For your personal safety, you may also need to be accompanied by a responsible adult driver both before and after your treatment. Your fear of dental treatment may stem from a previously unpleasant dental experience, the inability to tolerate a particularly lengthy procedure, or a general uneasiness in regard to your dental health. Communicating your concerns with your dentist and the dental team can help to uncover the most ideal coping methods for your situation. Choosing sedation dentistry can enable you to receive the essential healthcare that you need in the most pleasant setting possible. You’ll no longer be imprisoned by the fear that has prevented you from enjoying the healthy, beautiful smile that you desire. Learn more by calling Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550 today. To maintain optimal oral health, a delicate balance must be maintained. The management of plaque bacteria, the way that your teeth fit together, your diet, and the proper function of your immune system must all work together in harmony. When one or more of these factors is affected, your oral health can suffer significantly.
The presence of stress, both physical and emotional, is a factor that can throw off the balance that is necessary for your oral health. Your dentist understands the impact of stress on your teeth and gums. That’s why routine dental visits and periodic exams are so important to your dental and your overall health. These visits provide the opportunity for the diagnosis and management of dental conditions that are beyond your control. During times of stress, normal irritants such as plaque bacteria may suddenly become extremely irritating to your gum tissue. The result is inflammation, bleeding, redness, and tenderness. Though these are the common characteristics of gingivitis, the onset of these symptoms may occur more rapidly and may not respond as readily to treatment. For example, it is not uncommon for college students to experience acute gingivitis during final exams, women may experience exaggerated symptoms during menstruation and pregnancy, military personnel are at an increased risk during combat and millions of adults report the onset of symptoms during particularly stressful life events. Untreated gingivitis and chronic or long-term inflammation can be particularly harmful to your general health. These conditions may lead to irreversible periodontal disease and other systemic diseases. Bleeding and tenderness during times of stress should not be overlooked, and in fact may be an indicator that you may need to practice extra careful oral hygiene as you manage the increased stress. Remember that your dentist is here to assist you and guide you through the challenges of protecting your oral health. Additional cleanings, medicated mouthrinses, or other changes to your oral hygiene routine may be recommended to prevent damage and soothe your symptoms. For a personalized examination and the appropriate treatment, contact the Plano dental office of Dr. John M. Hucklebridge.
Your teeth are certainly a reflection of your overall health. In fact, many aspects of your dental health can be directly attributed to the state of your dental health. Like a forensic scientist, your dentist can tell a lot about the state of your health based on the condition of your teeth. Many common health conditions are known to have side effects that can impact your teeth. While you are probably aware of your health conditions, your dentist can help to explain how those conditions may change the way that you care for your teeth. There are many underlying medical conditions that can be diagnosed very early during your routine dental exams. At each visit, should any unexplained dental condition be identified, you may be advised to contact your physician for further investigation. A disorder as common as acid reflux or GERD can contribute to acid erosion on the teeth as well as unpleasant breath. As the enamel becomes eroded, you may notice sensitive teeth or an increase in tooth decay. This type of erosion is also commonly seen in patients who suffer from eating disorders such as bulimia. There are hundreds of prescription and over-the-counter drugs that are known to cause chronic dry mouth. Without an adequate saliva flow, even normal eating and speaking can become painful. The lips and tongue may feel sticky or sore, and the teeth are more susceptible to cavities. Patients who are diagnosed with a large number of cavities can typically look to their diets for answers to their dental problems. Consuming soft drinks, fruit juices, power drinks, and sweetened coffees throughout the day instantly increases your risk for cavities. Many adults who choose to sip drinks at their desks or during breaks are surprised that they develop far more cavities than they had ever experienced as children! What do your teeth say about your health? If you are unsure of the answer, contact Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550 for a thorough examination today. If you have ever experienced anxiety, fear, or even mild nervousness prior to a dental visit, then you are probably quite interested in the advantages of sedation dentistry. The ability to relax in the dental chair, and even snooze, while having your treatment completed, could completely transform your perception of dentistry.
Dr. John M. Hucklebridge, your dentist serving Plano TX, offers sedation dentistry to alleviate your concerns and to create a relaxing and comfortable environment for you. The sedation process has been proven to be safe, and the entire dental staff has the experience to care for you properly during your visit. However, it is still important that you know what to expect once your treatment has been completed. Most patients will feel groggy and sleepy even after leaving the dental office. As with most commonly prescribed medications, it will take several hours for your body to metabolize the sedatives. For your safety, you will be advised to arrive with a responsible adult driver who can transport you from the dental office to your home. Once arriving at home, you should refrain from driving or operating machinery, and you may feel inclined to sleep for a while. In fact, you should plan to relax at home for the remainder of the day or until you feel completely normal. The exact length of time that is required to overcome the effects of the sedatives will depend upon several factors. Everyone metabolizes medications at slightly different rates, and that rate will be influenced by the amount of sedation that is required for your particular procedure. Prior to your treatment, Dr. Hucklebridge will review the plan for your sedation, including the type and dosage of the proposed medications. Sedation dentistry enables millions of patients to receive the dental care that they need, and it proves that fear and anxiety can be overcome. Whether you are plagued by the lingering memory of a previously bad dental experience, or you are anticipating a lengthy and extensive procedure, it is important that you contact our skilled dental team to discuss your sedation options today. In dentistry, we place quite a bit of emphasis on prevention. Preventing disease, preventing damage, and preventing pain can help to protect your health, keep you comfortable, and preserve your teeth. A successful preventive effort involves a strong partnership between you and your Plano dentist. Identifying common risk factors and educating you on how to live a healthier lifestyle enables your dentist to provide you with the customized care that you require.
In general, it helps to understand the root causes of some of the most common dental conditions, in order to prevent them from occurring in the first place. For example, tooth loss is a common dental condition that affects millions of patients each year. Gum Disease and Tooth Loss. Technically known as periodontal disease, gum disease is responsible for the majority of tooth loss cases. When the structures that support the teeth, such as the bone and gum tissue, become damaged and diseased, the ultimate result is teeth that are no longer strong enough to remain functional and the teeth must be removed. Cavities, Trauma, and Tooth Loss. A badly decayed or broken tooth is sometimes compromised to the point that it simply cannot be saved. If possible, restorative measures such as a root canal or crown may be recommended. If these procedures cannot be expected to produce a reasonable chance for success, the only alternate treatment option is typically extraction. Congenital Conditions. It is not uncommon to be born without one or more permanent teeth. Even when the primary (baby) tooth is present, the corresponding adult tooth may not form, leaving a space or gap in your smile. Whenever possible, our goal is to preserve your natural teeth. When that is not possible, our next goal is to determine the cause of the loss in order to prevent future tooth loss. Finally, your dentist will recommend replacing the missing tooth as soon as possible, and the most appropriate treatment options will be presented. Typically, those options include dental implants, dental bridges, or partial dentures. To discuss your concerns about to tooth loss and learn more about your treatment options, call Plano Smile Studio at 972-398-2550. |
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