cosmetic dentistry

General Information

In the past decade there has been a dramatic interest in cosmetic dentistry.  We all realize that having a healthy, bright, beautiful smile enhances our appearance and allows us to smile with confidence.  Thanks to the advances in modern cosmetic dentistry, we are able to improve our teeth and smiles with quick, painless and surprisingly affordable treatments.

Cosmetic dental treatments can:

• Change the size, shape, and alignment of certain teeth.
• Fill in unattractive spaces between teeth.
• Improve or correct bites.
• Lighten or brighten the color of teeth.
• Repair decayed, broken, cracked, or chipped teeth.
• Replace missing teeth.
• Replace old, unattractive dental treatments.

Remember, your smile speaks before you even say a word!

Porcelain Fixed Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an option to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges.  You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case.  The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal.  Porcelain fixed bridges are most popular because they resemble your natural teeth.  This type of bridge consists to two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

Reasons for a fixed bridge:

• Fill space of missing teeth.
• Maintain facial shape.
• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
• Restore chewing and speaking ability.
• Restore your smile.
• Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.

What does getting a fixed bridge involve?

Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits.  While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown.  Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated.  In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.

At the second visit, you permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit.  Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge.  The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.

You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment.  Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.

Porcelain Crowns (Caps)

A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size.  A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.

Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular, because they resemble your natural teeth.  They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced.  Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

Reasons for crowns:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Cosmetic enhancement.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.
• Tooth has a root canal.

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments.  Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown.  A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown.  Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are permanently inserted to resemble a tooth or set of teeth. They are especially helpful in supporting a crown or fixed bridge as well as securing a removable appliance such as dentures.

Implants can eliminate the need to shave down adjacent teeth to create a bridge and can help maintain your jawbone and your facial structure.

Dental implants with bio-compatible restorations.

At Tranquility Dental, our doctors create strong, stable dental implant restorations from the best bio-compatible materials available locally in St. Louis Park. Dental implants do not rely on your supporting tooth structure for the appropriate fit. Instead, dental implants act as the missing roots of lost teeth. This way, the look, feel, AND function is comparable to your natural teeth.

Dental implants are considered the gold standard of tooth replacement. As a result, a team effort is needed for the complete procedure. Dr. Melissa Naidyhorski and Dr. Michael Perpich team up with in-house periodontists and oral surgeons for accurate, pinpoint placement of your dental implants and bio-compatible porcelain crowns, bridges... even full dentures!

What exactly is a dental implant?

A dental implant is essentially a titanium rod that takes the place of a missing tooth root. With this placement, it anchors the restoration that takes the place of the actual missing tooth. Dental implants are always made out of titanium because titanium has unique properties which allow it to osseointegrate. This means the titanium dental implant eventually blends itself into the jawbone after successful placement.

Dental implants represent a breakthrough in advanced high-tech dentistry. Under the care of a highly qualified dentist, like the dentists and specialists at Tranquility Dental, dental implants offer a very safe and accurate success rate and are the absolute best form of tooth replacement. Call now and ask for a free initial consultation.

How do I know if dental implants are right for me?

If you are missing one or more of your natural teeth or have difficulty enjoy your favorite foods, it is likely that you are a good candidate for dental implants. Your initial consultation with the doctors at Tranquility Dental will determine if dental implants are right for you.

Sometimes there is not enough gum and jawbone support for dental implants. Often when this happens we are capable of regenerating gum tissue and jaw bone lost to periodontal disease. This makes dental implant placement possible for just about every patient.

What is the first step to obtaining dental implants?

The first step is to call Tranquility Dental and ask for an initial consultation for dental implants. Patients come to us from Edina, Chanhassen, Victoria, Chaska, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Hopkins, Wayzata, Deephaven, Shorewood, Excelsior, St. Louis Park, Kenwood, Golden Valley, Plymouth, Maple Grove and other cities near St. Louis Park to determine if dental implants are right for them.

Composite (White) Fillings

A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.

As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced. They are very durable, and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.

Reasons for composite fillings:

• Chipped teeth.
• Closing space between two teeth.
• Cracked or broken teeth.
• Decayed teeth.
• Worn teeth.

How are composite fillings placed?

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment.  While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as necessary. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.

You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory.  They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.

Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile.  They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions.

As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement.  They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

Reasons for porcelain veneers:

• Cosmetically, to create a uniform, white, beautiful smile.
• Crooked teeth.
• Misshapen teeth.
• Severely discolored or stained teeth.
• Teeth that are too small or large.
• Unwanted or uneven spaces.
• Worn or chipped teeth.

What does getting porcelain veneers involve?

Getting veneers usually requires two visits to complete the process, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure.  The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer.  A mold or impression of the teeth is taken and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and the dentist.

On the second visit the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond.  Bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer and a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond.

You will receive care instructions for veneers.  Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new veneers.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a clear alternative to traditional metal braces that has been embraced by hundreds of thousands of patients over the years. They can correct crowing, gaps, cross bites, over bites, open bites as well as various other alignment problems with your teeth. Each set of aligners is custom molded to your teeth and gradually shifts them into place in an inconspicuous way that will keep you smiling throughout the whole process. Every two weeks as you transition to a new set of aligners, you will be able to visibly witness how your teeth become closer to the perfect smile you’ve always wanted.

The comfortable, customized aligners are also removable which allows you to eat and have your teeth cleaned without the bothersome nature of metal braces. It also reduces the affects normal braces may have on your gums and supporting tissue in your mouth, thus creating a less painful affect overall. Come down to Tranquility  Dental  today to see if Invisalign is right for you!

Attention Twin Cities adults!
You can have straighter teeth with Invisalign!

“Braces are just for kids!” “I don't want metal in my mouth!” “I would look hideous with orthodontics!”

At Tranquility Dental, we've heard all the excuses for why adults refuse to consider orthodontics. After all, straight teeth aren't just a problem for children and teens. They are a concern for adults of all ages as well. Not just a cosmetic issue, but a dental health issue. Straighter teeth are easier to care for and tend to be healthier and in better condition that crooked, worn teeth.

I think I've heard of Invisalign! How does Invisalign work?

Thanks to a fairly strong national advertising campaign, many adults are discovering the benefits of Invisalign.

Invisalign is not braces. Invisalign is a series of clear plastic aligners that are custom fit for each patient. The aligners are worn and changed by your dentist as the treatment progresses. Unlike traditional braces, the aligners are practically invisible and difficult to detect by the naked eye. Plus, they are removable for easy eating, brushing, and flossing.

In some cases, Invisalign works faster than traditional braces, making Invisalign an even more desirable form of orthodontic care.

What if I am not a candidate for Invisalign?

Unfortunately, Invisalign is not for everyone. Some patients we see have orthodontic issues that are so developed, they require specialist care beyond what Invisalign can do. The only way to know for sure if you are a good candidate for Invisalign, or any other form of aesthetic orthodontics, is to call us and schedule your initial consultation.

Are they any Invisalign specials for new patients?

Yes! Tranquility Dental is offering special financing to our patients! The first step is to schedule a FREE consultation so our team can go over the treatment with you step-by-step and determine the appropriate treatment time.

Remember: you are never too old to enjoy straight teeth and a beautiful, healthy smile. Call us today to schedule your Invisalign consultation.

Smile Makeover

As Twin Cities cosmetic dentists, we offer a wide variety of cosmetic dentistry operations, but our smile makeover combines them into one brilliant package that will transform your teeth in just a few procedures. Unlike individual procedures that are focused primarily on your dental health, smile makeovers take into consideration the color, width, length, shape of your teeth along with your facial appearance, skin tone and hair color. This culmination of data works to bring out the brightest smile customized specifically to your face.

Besides the color and alignment of your teeth, our dentists will also evaluate your tooth length, smile line, tooth proportions and tooth textures. We work to improve the harmony and balance of your teeth to achieve fuller lips and a brighter smile just for you!

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth.  The most popular method is using a home teeth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically.  Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc.  Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Teeth whitening is not permanent. It is not a once-in-a-lifetime event.  Touch-ups may be needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine. Patients touch up their whitening usually once every six months or year, after their cleaning visit. When your teeth are clean, the whitening is more effective.

Reasons for teeth whitening:

• Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
• Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
• Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).
• Yellow, brown stained teeth.

What does teeth whitening involve?

TAKE HOME TEETH WHITENING

This type of teeth whitening usually requires two visits.  At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary.  The trays are worn with special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile

IN OFFICE TEETH WHITENING

This treatment is done in the dental office and you will see results immediately.  It may require more than one visit, with each visit lasting 60 to 120 minutes.  While your gums are protected, a bleaching solution is applied to the teeth.  Some products require a special light to enhance the action of the agent while the teeth are whitened. Typically this light causes more sensitivity and trauma to the teeth, which is why at Tranquility Dental we have selected an in office whitening product that is just as effective without the light or added discomfort.

Some patients may still experience tooth sensitivity after having their teeth whitened.  This sensation is temporary and subsides shortly after you complete the bleaching process, usually within a few days to one week.