• Teeth Whitening
• Dental Bonding and Tooth-Colored Fillings
• Inlays and Onlays
• Crowns
• Porcelain Veneers
• Dental Implants
• Clear Aligners

With the increased availability of cosmetic dentistry, has come a boom in the demand for such services. The question then is, what makes cosmetic dental procedures so popular that we are seeing a marked increase with each passing year? Let’s look at some reasons.

Minimally Intrusive

Many who are on the fence about getting cosmetic dental work performed tend to be so because they are worried about the pain associated with the procedures. These fears are, for the most part, unfounded. Many cosmetic dental procedures are minimally intrusive and practically pain-free. This is especially true when talking about teeth whitening and veneers, two of the most popular cosmetic procedures on the market.

A Boost in Confidence

You must never feel guilty about the value you place on how your smile makes you feel. People that have beautiful smiles are looked at by others as being generally beautiful. If you must cover your mouth during pictures because you are embarrassed about your smile, it is time to do something about it. The range of cosmetic dental services available to help improve upon the aesthetics of your smile is truly astounding. Every change for the positive that you make in your smile will help transform yourself into a more self-confident and happier you.

If you are interested in learning more about the world of cosmetic dentistry and how it can transform not only your smile but your overall attitude about yourself, please set up an appointment at Bright Smiles Dental Studio in Glendale, CA, by calling (818) 290-8788 today. You are just a phone call away from a bright, sparkling smile that you are going to want to show off.

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What are fillings

Fillings are a type of dental restoration that fixes a tooth damaged by decay. During the filling procedure, the dentist will remove the decayed area of the tooth and clean it before using a filling material. Many dentists still use silver amalgam fillings which can contain more than 50% mercury.  The good news is that at Bright Smiles when you have a cavity repaired you do not have to worry about having a mouthful of silver. At the office of Dr. Carlos, we utilize tooth-colored fillings made of composite resin.

Types of tooth decay

• Occlusal cavities – Also known as pit and fissure decay, these types of cavities occur on the irregular chewing surfaces of the molar. These are a common type of cavity in both children and adults.
• Root decay – Root decay most commonly occurs in older adults who are dealing with receding gums. Because the root is exposed and not properly protected by enamel it is extremely susceptible to invasion from harmful bacteria.
• Smooth surface decay – These cavities occur on the flat surfaces of the teeth and are caused by inadequate oral hygiene and failure to remove bacterial plaque.
• Interproximal cavity – These are a special type of smooth surface decay that occurs between the teeth and is also caused by improper brushing and flossing.

Why patients need fillings

When a cavity develops in a tooth it can continue to trap bacteria, allowing the cavity to grow larger. Eventually, the cavity can penetrate to the inner pulp chamber of the tooth, causing severe damage and pain, and potentially the loss of a tooth. Filling a cavity stops its growth and protects the tooth.

Tooth-colored-fillings

Repairing a cavity requires the dentist to remove the decayed portion of the tooth with a dental drill. Once this is done, the area is cleaned out and then will need to be filled with a strong material in order to restore appearance and functionality.

Fillings are available in a variety of materials including amalgam, gold, composite, and porcelain. Historically, amalgam fillings were the chosen option for the majority of dental professionals as a more economical alternative to gold. They remained popular due to their longevity.

In recent years, studies have shown the potentially harmful health effects of amalgam fillings. When amalgam fillings expand and contract with temperature change, they can put pressure on the tooth, leading to fractures or breakage. In addition, the fillings can lead to the body’s exposure to mercury, through inhalation and through the blood.

These days, most dentists and patients prefer a more natural looking solution such as composite resin. Composite fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and ceramic.  The plastic material can be shaded to match the existing tooth structure. It is then mixed with a powdered glass to give the final finish translucent and reflective properties of tooth enamel. The filling material begins as a soft, moldable paste which Dr. Carlos applies into the prepared area of the tooth in layers until it completely fills it. A light is then used to cure the composite material for the final restoration.

Advantages of tooth-colored fillings:

• The composite resin is color matched to blend in beautifully with the natural tooth
• Composite resin fillings do not expand and contract
• Long lasting
• Strong and durable
• More economical than options such as inlays, onlays, or crowns
• Metal-free

If you are near the Montrose, CA area and would like to know more about the benefits of tooth-colored fillings, call us today. Don’t neglect your oral health. If you suspect you may have a cavity it’s important to make an appointment for treatment as soon as you can.

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To learn more about tooth colored fillings, or to schedule an annual exam, call us at (818) 290-8788 .

Dental Fillings

When you have a cavity, you need to have it repaired in order to prevent further damage to the tooth. In the past when it came to fillings, many dentists opted for amalgam, which is a silver colored tooth filling. While these fillings were often chosen due to their durability, they are not known as the most attractive solution for the smile. In fact, many patients are often self-conscious of the silver fillings in their smile.

At Bright Smiles, we use a strong, natural-looking alternative. Composite resin fillings are tooth colored fillings that can actually be matched to the tooth’s natural enamel color. Once a composite resin filling is in place, no one outside of you or our staff will ever be able to tell that you have a filling in your smile.

Tooth colored fillings can be used for a number of different reasons, including:

• Repairing a tooth that is cracked or broken

• Filling an area of the tooth that has a cavity

• Filling in areas of worn teeth due to bruxism

Benefits of tooth colored fillings

Obviously, one of the biggest advantages of tooth-colored fillings is how natural they look, but there are still other reasons we choose these types of fillings.

1. Tooth colored fillings are resistant to temperature changes. Amalgam fillings will actually expand and contract with changes in temperature. This could lead to small cracks or breaks in the tooth and leave that area susceptible to bacteria. Tooth colored fillings will not be impacted by changes in temperature which protects the tooth from needing further repair.

2. Tooth colored fillings support the tooth’s natural structure. Once in place, composite resin fillings restore the original strength and functionality of tooth. During a composite resin filling, much less of the natural tooth structure must be removed prior to placing it. This allows patients to keep more of their natural smile.

What to expect with a tooth colored filling

Fillings are a simple, in-office procedure that is typically done under local anesthesia. If the patient suffers from any dental anxiety, additional options can be discussed. During the procedure, a drill is used to eliminate the enamel and the area affected by the cavity. An acid gel is then used to etch the tooth to allow the resin to properly bond to the tooth. The resin is then applied to the tooth and cured with a special light. We continue this process in layers until the tooth is completely restored and sealed. The tooth will then be polished down to its natural size and finish.

Recovery from tooth colored fillings

It’s normal to experience sensitivity to pressure, temperature, and tastes after the local anesthesia has worn off. These sensations are typically mild and should go away within one to two weeks.

It’s important for patients to implement an at-home oral hygiene routine that includes consistent brushing, flossing, and mouthwash. Maintaining routine dental exams and professional cleanings allows us to monitor the filling as well as the health of the rest of the mouth. With proper care, tooth colored fillings can last for up to ten years, sometimes longer before needing to be replaced.

At Bright Smiles Dental Studio in Glendale, CA, our goal is to provide patients with comprehensive dentistry services that improve the health and appearance of their smile. Our goal is to always deliver care that is conservative and effective. If you would like to learn more about tooth colored fillings or any other services that we provide, we invite you to call our office today at (818) 290-8788 to schedule an appointment.

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Credentials count

To practice in the United States, most dentists first complete four years of study to earn a bachelor’s degree, usually with focus in biology, chemistry, physics, or mathematics; then four more years at dental school, including a one- or two-year internship. The DDS/DMD program includes courses such as:

• Dental anatomy
• Dental anesthesiology
• Endodontics
• Geriatric dentistry
• Molecular biology
• Neuroscience
• Oral microbiology
• Oral Surgery
• Orthodontics
• Pathology
• Pediatric dentistry
• Periodontics
• Pharmacology
• Physiology
• Prosthodontics
• Radiology

After successful completion of a written and clinical examination, the individual becomes licensed. Thereafter, a dentist must take a specified number of hours of continuing education as mandated by the state. However, many CE courses focus on practice management rather than emerging techniques.

It is fine to inquire into all aspects of a prospective dentist’s academic background. In what area is his bachelor’s degree? Has he had any specialized training? Is he licensed in other states or countries? Has he received awards, accolades, or recognition for research or achievements? What recent CE has he taken?

The “Meet the Doctor” page on the dentist’s website may provide the information you need. If it does not – ask!

Expect experience

Cosmetic dentistry is not an area of specialization defined by the American Dental Association. Rather, the term describes treatments that are performed to enhance the appearance of your smile. Any dentist licensed to practice in California may offer cosmetic dental services. However, that does not mean quality or results are comparable.

Creating aesthetic outcomes is equal parts technical skill, natural artistry, and experience. Over time, as a dentist sees many patients, he becomes adept at evaluating face shape, skin tone, the shape of lips, and gums. Only with this depth of experience can he recommend the most flattering cosmetic services to complement other features and bring the entire face into balance.

It is important to bear in mind that nearly every restorative treatment also incorporates an element of aesthetics. Even if you are getting a filling, crown, bridge, dental implant, or orthodontics for functional reasons, you want the work to blend with your smile and look natural. That requires experience.

Before committing to treatment, schedule a cosmetic consultation. Talk with the dentist about your concerns and ask what procedures he recommends. Then be sure to request before and after photos of actual patients, to analyze quality of the work. Check consumer review sites like Yelp, Google+, Angie’s List, and HealthGrades to find out what patients genuinely say about their treatment.

Seek out the “click factor” 

You must place a great deal of faith in the dentist you choose for cosmetic treatment. You will ultimately put your budget, time, oral function, and appearance in your dentist’s hands. So, one of the most important factors in selecting this individual is whether your personalities “click.”

After the initial consultation, ask yourself honestly:

• Did I feel relaxed and comfortable talking with this dentist?
• Did I feel rushed?
• Were my questions answered in understandable terms?
• Were treatment options thoroughly explained?
• Were payment and finance options discussed openly?
• Do I like this person?

The click factor can make all the difference between a disastrous or lackluster dental experience, and one that is fully satisfying. 

General and cosmetic dental services in the La Crescenta, CA area

Bright Smiles Dental Studio provides a full range of care for patients of all ages. Dr. Carlos Garcia believes this broad approach helps his patients get the most out of preventive, general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry treatments. His expertise is backed by dual DDS degrees, hundreds of hours of continuing education (far exceeding the statutory requirement), and more than two decades of experience. Yet it is the beautiful smiles of his patients that tell the true story of Dr. Carlos’ dedication to the outcome of every cosmetic and restorative treatment.

If you are considering cosmetic dental services in the La Crescenta, CA area, ask your friends, neighbors, and co-workers who they recommend. Then follow their advice – call (818) 290-8788 to schedule your appointment at Bright Smiles Dental Studio.

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When veneers are a good choice 

A veneer is a thin shell of dental ceramic. It is bonded to the front surface of an anterior tooth to disguise imperfections. Just one tooth may be veneered, all that show when you smile, or even a whole arch.

Veneers are applied to improve the appearance of:

• Minor misalignment – Crooked teeth, spaces, and overlaps.
• Enamel flaws – Chips, fractures, pits, and bumps.
• Shape and size – Teeth that look too long or short, are worn down, or just aren’t formed attractively.
• Color – Internal discoloration that does not respond to whitening, or genetically dingy enamel.

Porcelain veneers vs. Lumineers® 

Dental bonding, a composite resin material for white fillings, is sometimes used as a temporary correction for these problems. However, veneers for long-term smile enhancement are usually classified as porcelain or Lumineers®.

Porcelain veneers are about the thickness of a credit card (one millimeter). A small amount of enamel must be removed from the front surface of a tooth so that the veneer seats snugly at the gum line and looks natural. This change is permanent. The advantages of porcelain veneers are strength, and the range of imperfections they can mask.

Lumineers are a brand that are ultra-thin. Little or no reduction of tooth enamel is necessary – just a mild etching solution. Because they are so thin, Lumineers are translucent for a very natural look. Plus, they can be removed. However, they are more easily damaged or dislodged, and cannot correct some appearance issues.

At Bright Smiles Dental Studio, you always get a personalized treatment plan. Call (818) 290-8788 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Garcia to find out what type of veneers are right for you.

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The teeth whitening trend

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments, and for good reason. It is an economical way to brighten your whole look.

This is how professional in-office teeth whitening works:

• After you are settled comfortably in the chair, your eyes are protected with special glasses.
• A trained registered dental assistant, working under the direction of a licensed dentist, applies a protective medium to gum tissues.
• Prescription strength whitening agent is brushed onto visible tooth surfaces.
• The bleaching process is accelerated with an LED light for a precise period of time.
• Bleaching is repeated several times, until desired tooth color is achieved.
• Gums and teeth are cleansed.
• You leave the office with a noticeably whiter smile.

You can also whiten safely at home, with the oversight of the dental team. Dr. Garcia takes impressions of your mouth to fabricate application trays. You wear the trays, filled with a fresh date, genuine medical-grade whitening gel, for about an hour a day. When teeth are as light as you like, whiten periodically to maintain a dazzling smile. Extra precautions can be taken to minimize risk of sensitivity. 

Use caution if you whiten your teeth naturally 

An internet search will turn up plenty of do-it-yourself teeth whitening treatments. While the ingredients may be natural, please be careful – they can harm your teeth. For example, baking soda is quite abrasive. It scrapes surface discoloration away but leaves scratches that trap more stains. The acids in apple cider vinegar fade stains. However, they also erode enamel, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Strawberries and bananas may have some superficial benefit, but they do not penetrate tooth enamel.

It is only natural to call Bright Smiles Dental Studio for safe, effective teeth whitening. The number in Glendale is (818) 290-8788 .

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TEETH WHITENING

Teeth whitening treatment from a professional can be an excellent way to have a sparkling smile, or to remove stains from your teeth. This procedure can help you achieve a natural and attractive smile. In-office teeth whitening procedures are safe and convenient, and they are chosen by people in various age groups. Most patients choose teeth whitening if they are unhappy with the shade of their teeth and wish to restore a bright smile.

During the treatment, you will just sit and relax in a dental chair. Trained professionals will apply the necessary whitening agents to your teeth to make them shine. These compounds may be further activated with the application of a special light. Your smile will turn brighter once the treatment is over. The Zoom! in-office teeth whitening system could be an ideal choice when you need a dazzling smile.

DENTAL BONDING

Dental bonding will provide you with both cosmetic and restorative benefits. A composite resin material will be applied to your teeth during the treatment. It helps to hide all the flaws present in your smile. For example, cracks, discoloration, and imperfect shape can be concealed with dental bonding. The bonding material has also proven to be effective at repairing cavities and other types of teeth damage. Dental bonding is a vital part of cosmetic dental care in Glendale, CA for appropriate candidates.

TOOTH FILLINGS

When tooth decay occurs and causes damage to your teeth, dental fillings can provide a quick solution. Tooth-colored fillings are aesthetically superior and safe, unlike traditional silver amalgams. Patients increasingly choose safe and effective tooth-colored fillings, which can match the natural shade of your teeth. A dentist designs discreet fillings that are difficult to spot because they resemble natural enamel.

INLAYS AND ONLAYS

Inlays and onlays are used to address tooth decay. In case some of your teeth are decayed or damaged, dental inlays and onlays can be used as an aesthetic dental restoration. If the damage is deep, the dentist may recommend a dental crown instead of an inlay. If you have fractured teeth, inlays or onlays may be an effective treatment. Inlays and onlays can help a patient achieve freedom from tooth sensitivity, too.

CROWNS

If your teeth are severely affected by chips and cracks or deep decay, dental crowns may be the solution to your problems. They reinforce the structure of your teeth and help you get an attractive smile. Dental crowns can provide you with a natural smile all over again. Crowns are custom-made. So, that they blend in with your natural teeth. They are crafted in such a way that they mimic the color, size, and shape of the existing teeth. Crowns also help to restore a patient’s biting ability.

PORCELAIN VENEERS

These are shells that are ultra-thin and made of ceramic. The veneer is attached to the front of the tooth to improve the smile. Porcelain veneers are crafted individually for each patient, according to their teeth structure. Porcelain mimics the qualities of the natural tooth enamel. An experienced dentist can make good use of porcelain veneers to provide cosmetic dental care in Glendale for various corrective treatments — ranging from mild misalignment to improving the color of the teeth.

COSMETIC STRAIGHTENING

Clear aligner trays are designed to correct bite and other spacing issues, including crowding. This discreet orthodontic treatment offers tailor-made aligners that are worn by as advised by your dentist. They are virtually invisible, which helps you to have an attractive and natural smile even while the treatment is active. These clear aligners are hardly noticeable, which patients appreciate over metal braces that are visible in the smile.

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What dental bonding is:

This procedure uses tooth-colored resin to improve smiles. The resin is a durable plastic and powdered glass material that can be matched to your natural enamel. It’s applied to your teeth, then hardened with a light or laser.

What bonding is used to correct:

• Repairs decayed teeth (the resin can be used to fill a cavity).
• Closes spaces between teeth.
• Can lengthen short teeth.
• Protects exposed tooth roots.
• Repairs chipped or cracked teeth.
• Corrects stained teeth that are resistant to whitening treatments.
• Changes the shape of the teeth.

Benefits of dental bonding:

• Cost-effective: This procedure is often considered one of the least expensive cosmetic dental procedures. in some cases. it can have the same effect as veneers or crowns but at a fraction of the cost.
• Quick: Dental bonding can be completed in as little as one dental visit, with no follow-up visits necessary.
• Non-invasive: Often, even local anesthesia is unnecessary for dental bonding treatments.
• Easy to care for: Bonded teeth don’t require special care. You need to create and maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine. This can be done by brushing twice daily, flossing at least once daily, rinsing with antiseptic mouthwash, and maintaining your schedule of regular dental cleanings.
• Long-lasting: Dental bonding solutions are long-lasting with good oral hygiene.

The procedure used to bond your teeth:

This process is simple. After an individual consultation during which we determine that this is the best treatment for your needs, lifestyle and budget, we will use a shade guide to select a resin color that closely matches your tooth. Next, we will roughen your tooth’s surface and apply a conditioning liquid. Then, the putty-like resin is molded and smoothed to the desired shape. At this point, the resin is hardened utilizing a bright light. We then finish trimming and shaping it. At the end, we give it a good polish to match the natural sheen of your tooth enamel.

Reasons why Bright Smiles Dental Studio is the place for you:

• We were voted 2015 Finest Dentist by Crescenta Valley Weekly
• We work hard to put even the most nervous patient at ease!
• We’re multi-lingual! We can converse and serve our patients comfortably speaking Spanish, Armenian, Portuguese, Italian, or Farsi.
• Individualized treatment: We take our time with each patient. You’re our top priority during your appointment time. This shows in our unhurried consultations, and helping make your life convenient through the array of services offered.
• Weekend hours: To better serve the community’s dental needs, we provide Saturday appointments. We don’t want you to feel stressed about missing weekday commitments.
• Sedation dentistry: To help even our most nervous patients feel comfortable, we offer sedation. This also is beneficial to patients that need extensive work done, as more can be completed in one visit, saving your precious time!
• Inclusiveness: Not only do we speak multiple languages, we also serve patients of all ages, from the very smallest to the oldest, and we don’t turn anyone away regardless of insurance status.

Don’t let self-consciousness about your smile hold you back in life! Call us today to schedule your individualized consultation to get started on your brand-new smile. You will interact differently with the world after cosmetic treatment. We promise! (818) 290-8788 .

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The Zoom! Teeth Whitening System:

Unlike drugstore teeth whitening treatments, Zoom! offers professional customization. That’s because a dental professional is with you every step of the way. First, a regular teeth cleaning is recommended. After this is done, we cover your lips and gums, leaving only your teeth exposed. We apply hydrogen peroxide whitening gel evenly to your teeth. Then we use the Zoom Advanced Power Chairside Lamp. This activates the hydrogen peroxide whitening. When the peroxide breaks down, oxygen breaches the enamel into the dentin to bleach the stains off your teeth. The entire process takes less than an hour.

What causes teeth to yellow?

To further understand how Zoom works, it’s important to know that tooth discoloration can result from drinking coffee, sodas, tea, red wine, or smoking. One of the reasons it’s ideal to help you appear younger is because tooth enamel naturally stains and darkens your teeth, Zoom! Restores the brilliance of a youthful smile.

Benefits of Zoom!

• Safe: It works by UV light, this means the gel doesn’t have to be quite as strong to work better than other gels. It doesn’t damage the tooth enamel and the process is carefully calibrated to protect your gums and lips.
• Quick: People see dramatic results after just one treatment. Gone are the days of needing multiple treatments. In under an hour, you will see results.

We’re here to help you find your lifetime of beautiful smiles. Find out if whitening is your solution. Call us today, (818) 290-8788 .

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What are porcelain veneers?

To understand why we love this premier cosmetic dental treatment, it’s necessary to understand exactly what makes veneers so special. Our veneers are crafted from materials that closely resemble tooth enamel. They are wafer-thin, so they slide over your existing teeth and are bonded into place. Because of their size and the materials that are used to make them, they are wonderfully designed to help cover stained teeth, fractured teeth, close gaps, and correct the appearance of minor misalignment issues.

Benefits of veneers:

• Natural-looking: We carefully design your veneers to match the rest of your smile, from the color of the material used to their size and shape.
• Protects your teeth: Veneers are great at keeping teeth with chips or cracks from breaking further. They provide a hard shell around them. This keeps your teeth from needing extensive dental work.
• Easy to care for: Taking care of your veneers is no harder than the excellent oral hygiene routine recommended to keep your smile beautiful and healthy.
• Long-lasting: Veneers last for years.

What sets Bright Smiles Dental Studio apart:

Dr. Carlos Garcia has built a practice that emphasizes the patient. Whether it’s the genuine warmth we greet everyone with, or the comprehensive care, patients go away amazed at the professionalism of both our dentists and the state of the art technology we employ to help make your dental experience one of comfort and quality. Get your lifetime of beautiful smiles! (818) 290-8788 .

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