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Dental Implants Protect the Jaw

When you lose one or more teeth, you will notice a disruption in your oral function and in the appearance of your smile. If you do not seek prompt tooth replacement treatment from your dentist, you might experience further dental complications, including continued loss of bone, shifting teeth, and changes to your bite.

The treatment of choice for missing teeth is typically dental implants. Unlike removable dental prosthetics (dentures), dental implants function like natural teeth by preserving your jawbone’s integrity and health. Read on to learn more about how missing teeth can impact the health of your jaw and how implant dentistry can help.

How Does Tooth Loss Affect the Jaw?

In healthy dental patients, the tooth’s root extends below the gumline into the jawbone. This root serves as a stimulus to the bone there, keeping it strong and stable. If you lose a tooth, the jawbone no longer receives this stimulation.

In the absence of the tooth’s root, the bone that supported your tooth will deteriorate. This can lead to a sagging appearance in the face and the shifting of any remaining teeth. You cannot prevent this without your dentist’s intervention, such as tooth replacement.

Will Dental Implants Preserve the Jawbone?

Dental implants are a restorative dental solution that your dentist can use to replace your missing teeth and preserve the jawbone. The dentist surgically places a titanium root replacement into the jaw, where it will integrate with the bone as it heals. Ultimately, this will serve as a support for a prosthetic tooth.

When restored with an implant crown, your dental implant will allow you to perform oral functions with ease and fill gaps in your smile. The implant also serves as a substitute for the missing root and provides additional stimulation to the jawbone. This will stop bone degeneration.

You can protect the structure of your face and teeth with this treatment. Removable tooth replacement solutions, such as dentures, only replace teeth above the gumline. Dentures do not offer this restorative dental benefit to the bone.

Will My Mouth Support a Dental Implant?

While the advantages of replacing lost teeth with dental implants are clear, not all dental patients are candidates for immediate dental implant placement. Implants require sufficient bone for predictable and successful placement, as well as proper integration of the fixture. If too much bone has deteriorated after tooth loss, then the jaw cannot successfully support the implant without augmentation.

If this occurs, your dentist might suggest a bone graft. A periodontist or oral surgeon typically performs this procedure. Once the graft integrates, the jaw will have enough three-dimensional volume to retain a dental implant.

Your dentist can evaluate your jaw health and bone density through X-ray imaging taken during a consultation appointment. They can determine your eligibility for implant dentistry based on these images. Call us today or request a consultation below to find out whether dental implants can restore your smile after tooth loss.

 

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Dental Treatments to Whiten Your Smile

Teeth can become darker, duller, yellower, or stained over time. Sometimes this occurs due to consuming foods or drinks that contain staining agents. But your teeth can also stain due to factors beyond your control, such as aging or medication side effects.

Tooth discoloration can make you feel self-conscious about your smile’s appearance. But you can consult your dentist to find targeted dental solutions to brighten your teeth. Read on to learn about the ways your dentist can help you get the whiter smile of your dreams with professional treatment.

How Can My Dentist Brighten My Tooth Color?

Professional Bleaching Treatment

If you want to whiten your teeth, your dentist can provide deep bleaching treatment using KoR whitening materials. This will involve two to three in-office sessions followed by take-home treatment.

The professional whitening process begins with the dentist or assistant carefully applying a strong bleaching gel onto the teeth. The agents in this gel will thoroughly clean and remove stains while avoiding structural damage to the enamel that can cause tooth sensitivity.

Your gums, lips, and tongue will be protected from this gel, which could be irritating if not applied professionally. This expert supervision also ensures an even, careful application, giving you beautiful results that look natural on your unique smile.

The take-home part of this treatment uses a less potent bleaching gel in specialized custom-fitting trays. You wear these trays over your teeth to continue whitening your smile, in line with your aesthetic goals. It is important to use these trays as directed for optimal results.

Other Options to Whiten Your Smile

While all natural teeth will whiten with professional bleaching treatment, some discolorations are more difficult to whiten to the desired result. Also, existing fillings, crowns, and veneers will not whiten. Your dentist will advise you of this in your initial consultation. Your dentist can offer additional cosmetic dental solutions to address any remaining discoloration or restorations that did not whiten, giving you an even brighter, more uniform smile.

Dental Bonding

With bonding, your dentist uses tooth-colored resin sculpted directly onto your teeth to improve tooth color and shape. Bonding offers a less expensive alternative to porcelain crowns or veneers, but it does not last as long. As a resin, it is more prone to staining and discoloration and may need to be replaced every 3-10 years, depending on your diet and home care.

Porcelain Veneers or Crowns

If you want long-lasting smile enhancement, your dentist might suggest porcelain veneers or even crowns to create a more optimal smile in terms of color, shape, and overall appearance. Today, we have several “porcelains” that offer solutions for many situations, including discolored, chipped, fractured, or even slightly misaligned teeth.

These porcelain restorations are individually designed and custom-fit for each smile. They are more durable than bonding and can maintain their esthetic appearance for 15 years or longer in many cases with proper home care.

 

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Do Implants Affect Other Dental Work?

Replacing missing teeth with dental implants will restore the look, structure, and health of your smile. Though the advantages of this tooth replacement solution seem evident, you might worry that these fixtures can interfere with your ability to undergo dental procedures.

Dental implants can last in your smile for up to twenty years or longer. During this time, you can still receive other types of dental work without issue. However, you might require a unique approach to oral health care with these additions in your mouth. Read on to learn more about how implant dentistry could impact other dental care you may need.

Can I Whiten a Dental Implant?

The color of your teeth may change over time, and a yellow or stained smile can make you feel unhappy or insecure. Teeth bleaching treatments from your dentist can lift stains and give you a brighter smile. However, if you have dental implants or other ceramic restorations, the prosthetic teeth will not respond to this whitening treatment.

Although you cannot whiten implant crowns, these fixtures are designed to resist staining. But if you want to brighten the appearance of your implants, you should talk to your dentist about replacing the implant crown.

While dentists can whiten the natural teeth around an implant, the only way to get a whiter look for an implant is to replace the prosthetic teeth. Preserve the color of your smile and your dental work with good oral hygiene.

What If I Get a Cavity Near an Implant?

Dental implants are not susceptible to decay like your natural teeth. However, the surrounding teeth can develop cavities if you do not properly care for your smile.

Your dentist can treat these cavities as they normally would, unless they develop too close to your implant. In some cases, your dentist might need to remove the dental prosthetic to access the decay and restore it properly. They can then replace the implant crown.

To prevent cavities, practice proper oral hygiene, including attending routine teeth cleanings at your dentist’s office. Maintaining good oral health will allow your implant to function as well as it can and keep your natural teeth free of decay and other problems.

Can I Straighten My Teeth with Dental Implants?

If you want to straighten crooked teeth, you might worry that fixed dental implants can stop you from addressing your dental alignment concerns. Implants feature an anchor within the jaw that fuses with the bone to support prosthetic teeth above the gumline. Because of this secure fusion, your implant cannot move during teeth-straightening treatment.

Many people seek to align their smiles before they receive an implant for this reason. But if you already have an implant, talk to your dentist about your smile aesthetic goals. They may refer you to an orthodontist who can target the teeth around your implant and straighten them.

 

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When Do I Need a Dental Check-Up?

As soon as you grow your first baby teeth, it is recommended that you begin visiting your dentist’s office on a routine basis. You may recall needing regular dental visits to have your teeth cleaned, repaired, and to receive dental education as you grew up. But as we enter adulthood, many begin to wonder how necessary it really is to see a dentist for check-ups and how often they need to go.

For many reasons, the answer is yes. It is still necessary to attend regular check-ups with your dental professional, even as an adult. Routine dental visits are crucial for preventive oral health care. Without this regular preventative dental attention, you could face several risks to the appearance, health, and function of your smile.

But how often do you need to undergo routine dental care to maintain a healthy smile? Discover details about the frequency and importance of regular visits to your dentist’s office by reading on.

What Occurs During a Routine Dental Appointment?

You may feel more encouraged to attend a routine dental appointment when you know about the important oral health care that you will receive during the visit. One service you can expect as a patient of record is regular teeth cleaning by your dental hygienist.

Even if you practice diligent oral hygiene at home by brushing and flossing, it is normal to miss some areas of dental plaque occasionally. Plaque that is missed during daily care can quickly become firmly attached to the tooth surface and will no longer be removed with your toothbrush and floss.

This means that your dental hygienist must routinely use specialized tools to scrape hardened plaque (also called tartar or dental calculus) from hard-to-reach areas, such as between the teeth and around the gumline. If this is not regularly performed preventatively, the lingering dental plaque and bacteria will erode your dental structure and make you susceptible to a variety of dental issues, including gum disease and tooth decay.

The dentist will also perform an oral exam during this routine appointment. They check your teeth, gums, and oral tissues for signs of potential problems. If they can diagnose tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues promptly, they can then offer swift treatment to prevent lasting damage to your smile and further complications. Early detection and preventive care are crucial steps to avoid the development of costly, extensive dental needs.

How Often Should I Attend Dental Check-Ups?

The average healthy dental patient should expect to require a routine dental check-up at least every six months. This establishes the ideal window to remove harmful bacteria from your smile before they cause significant deterioration, and ensures your dental hygienist has enough time to reach all areas of your teeth in one visit effectively. It also allows the dentist to find dental concerns in an exam before they have a chance to progress and wreak serious havoc on your oral health.

Some dental patients may need to see their dentist more frequently. There are many factors, such as age, diet, oral hygiene, and even crowded (or crooked) teeth, that may be considered when determining the appropriate interval of time for your routine dental visits. Patients with gingivitis, gum disease, heavy tartar buildup, or certain underlying health issues may need to visit their dentist’s office every 3 or 4 times a year. Call your dentist to find the right preventative dental care plan for your unique smile.

What Should I Do During a Dental Emergency?

Even if you adhere to consistent, thorough preventive care at home and in the office, accidents can still harm your oral health. You might sustain a blow to the face that knocks out or injures a tooth, for instance. While it is always preferred to work preventively in dentistry, your dentist is equipped to help you if a dental problem should arise.

Do not wait until your next regularly scheduled dental check-up to tell your dentist about a dental incident or bothersome dental condition. It is recommended that you contact your dentist right away for an urgent evaluation of a dental emergency. They may ask you to come to their office for an emergency appointment, and they will determine if immediate intervention is necessary. If you notice changes in your smile, do not hesitate to tell your dentist, even if it occurs between your routine dental appointments.

 

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Is Sleep Apnea Silently Harming Your Health?

A visit to Opus Dental Esthetics can do more than help your oral health; it could also help save your life. During your routine dental care visits, Dr. Conover screens for the signs of airway issues that contribute to sleep apnea and snoring. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious medical condition that affects millions of people, and most don’t even know they have it. It’s more than just snoring; it’s a disorder that causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to low oxygen levels, poor sleep quality, and long-term health risks.

The Hidden Danger: How OSA Affects Your Body

Sleep apnea has been strongly linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and even diabetes. In fact, studies published by the American Heart Association and the National Institutes of Health have shown that untreated sleep apnea significantly increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. One review found that people with moderate to severe sleep apnea had nearly three times the risk of suffering a stroke compared to those without the condition.

So why aren’t more people being diagnosed with sleep apnea? Because the symptoms can be easily ignored or dismissed. Daytime fatigue, morning headaches, trouble concentrating, or loud snoring might not seem serious, but they can be signs of a much deeper problem.

Why Your Dentist Is Paying Attention

Increasingly, dental professionals are stepping up to help identify patients at risk for sleep apnea. That’s because your mouth, jaw, and airway health are closely connected. At your next dental visit, our clinicians might ask you a few simple questions about your sleep habits, snoring, or daytime drowsiness. It’s all part of a quick, painless screening process that takes just a few minutes but could make a lifetime of difference. If we suspect you may have sleep apnea, we can refer you for a proper diagnosis and, in many cases, offer treatment options right in our office.

Oral Appliance Therapy in Philadelphia

If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, treatment doesn’t always mean wearing a bulky CPAP machine. In fact, for many people with mild to moderate OSA, a custom oral sleep appliance, similar to a night guard, can reposition the jaw to keep the airway open while sleeping. These appliances are comfortable, easy to use, and can serve as a life-changing alternative for those who struggle with traditional sleep apnea therapies. These appliances are often covered by your medical insurance, not dental, making them a more accessible option for many patients.

Our team can work with you to evaluate your needs and create a custom oral appliance to reduce symptoms and improve your nightly sleep.

Should You Be Screened for Sleep Apnea?

If you or someone you love snores, wakes up feeling unrefreshed, or struggles with unexplained fatigue, don’t ignore the signs. Discuss sleep apnea screening with our dental care team or your primary care provider. It could be the first step toward improving your sleep and protecting your heart and brain health. Great sleep is the foundation for better health, clearer thinking, and a longer, more vibrant life.

 

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The Benefits of Dental Implants for Tooth Restoration

Tooth loss is a common dental issue that can significantly impact a person’s confidence, oral health, and overall quality of life. While traditional solutions like dentures and bridges have long been used to replace missing teeth, dental implants have emerged as the gold standard in modern tooth restoration. Offering unparalleled durability, aesthetics, and function, implants provide a comprehensive solution that closely mimics the look and feel of natural teeth. Understanding the benefits of getting dental implants can help you make an informed decision about your oral health and smile.

Natural Look and Feel

One of the most compelling benefits of dental implants is their ability to replicate the natural look and function of real teeth. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, where they fuse through a process called osseointegration. This creates a stable foundation that mimics a tooth root, allowing for a realistic biting and chewing experience. Unlike dentures, which can shift or click when eating or speaking, implants remain securely in place. This could give you the confidence to enjoy everyday activities without discomfort or self-consciousness.

Preservation of Bone and Facial Structure

When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate due to a lack of stimulation. This bone loss can lead to changes in facial structure, resulting in a sunken appearance and premature aging. Dental implants help prevent this bone resorption by providing the necessary stimulation to the jawbone, much like a natural tooth root would. By preserving the underlying bone structure, implants also help maintain the natural contours of the face. This could contribute to a more youthful appearance.

Improved Oral Health and Hygiene

Dental implants support overall oral health in a way that bridges and dentures often cannot. Unlike traditional bridges, implants do not require the reduction or alteration of adjacent teeth. This means the surrounding natural teeth remain intact and are less likely to decay or weaken over time. Additionally, implants can be cleaned and cared for just like natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, making them a low-maintenance and hygienic solution for tooth replacement.

Long-Term Durability

Another key advantage of dental implants is their longevity. With proper care, implants can last decades or even a lifetime, making them a cost-effective solution over time. Dentures and bridges may need periodic adjustments or replacements. Implants offer a more permanent and reliable restoration. Their durability is especially beneficial for patients who seek a stable, long-lasting solution without the inconvenience of ongoing repairs.

The Advantage of Custom Abutments

A critical component in the success of dental implants is the abutment, the connector between the implant and the crown. While stock abutments are available, custom abutments offer a superior fit and appearance tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy. Custom abutments are crafted to match the angle, depth, and contour of the implant site. This better ensures optimal crown placement and enhances both function and aesthetics.

The use of custom abutments also improves soft-tissue management, helping achieve a more natural-looking gum line around the restored tooth. This often results in a seamless integration with the surrounding teeth and gums, giving the final restoration a more lifelike appearance. In addition, custom abutments can reduce the risk of complications such as crown loosening or gum irritation by promoting better alignment and stability.

A Comprehensive Restoration Option

Dental implants offer more than just a cosmetic fix. They provide a comprehensive, functional, and health-conscious solution for missing teeth. From preserving jawbone density and facial structure to delivering unmatched durability and natural esthetics, implants stand out as the preferred choice for many dental professionals and patients alike. With the added benefits of custom abutments, patients can expect a restoration that not only feels great but also looks and functions at the highest level.

Dental Implants in Philadelphia, PA

At Opus Dental Esthetics, we understand the importance of a complete bite. Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile. If left untreated, tooth loss can lead to worsening dental conditions and even health risks. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how implant dentistry could help you.

 

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Aftercare for Dental Implants

Dental implants are a reliable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. However, the success of a dental implant does not end once the procedure is complete. Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the implant integrates well with the jawbone and maintains its health over time. Understanding how to care for your dental implants in Philadelphia, PA, can help prevent complications and preserve your investment in oral health.

Immediate Post-Procedure Care

In the first few days after a dental implant procedure, the focus should be on managing discomfort and promoting healing. Some mild pain, swelling, and bruising around the implant site are normal. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your face can help reduce swelling. Dr. Vafa may also recommend over-the-counter pain medications to help alleviate discomfort. It is important to avoid disturbing the surgical site, so refrain from touching the area with your tongue or fingers.

Soft foods are recommended during the initial healing phase, and you should avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the implant was placed. Drinking plenty of fluids and maintaining general oral hygiene without disrupting the implant site support healing. Alcohol and smoking should be avoided, as both can interfere with the body’s natural recovery process and increase the risk of implant failure.

Oral Hygiene and Cleaning

Once the initial healing has begun, maintaining excellent oral hygiene becomes critical. Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush is essential, and care should be taken to clean gently around the implant. Flossing or using interdental brushes specifically designed for implants can help remove plaque in hard-to-reach areas that a regular toothbrush can’t reach. Some dentists may recommend antibacterial mouth rinses to reduce the risk of infection during the first few weeks.

It is crucial to avoid using excessive force or harsh products, such as whitening agents or abrasive toothpaste, near the implant site. While implants are resistant to decay, the surrounding gum tissue and bone are still vulnerable to infection. Consistent, gentle cleaning helps maintain both the implant and the health of your natural teeth.

Diet and Lifestyle Considerations

While dental implants allow you to enjoy a wide range of foods, some temporary adjustments may be necessary during recovery. Hard, sticky, or overly crunchy foods can put undue pressure on the healing implant and surrounding tissues. Opting for soft, nutrient-rich foods supports tissue repair and bone integration.

Long-term success also depends on lifestyle choices. Avoiding tobacco products and limiting alcohol consumption not only reduces the risk of infection but also contributes to overall oral and systemic health. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports strong bones and healthy gums, which are essential for the longevity of your implant.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Routine dental visits are a cornerstone of implant aftercare. Drs. Vafa and Conover will monitor the healing process and check for any signs of complications, such as infection, gum recession, or implant loosening. Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that may accumulate around the implant, ensuring that the surrounding tissue remains healthy.

Even after complete healing, implants require the same level of attention as natural teeth. Scheduling regular check-ups, typically every six months, allows Dr. Conover to detect potential issues early and provide timely treatment, preventing more serious complications.

Recognizing Signs of Complications

Being aware of warning signs can make a significant difference in preserving your implant. Persistent pain, swelling, or unusual discharge at the implant site may indicate infection or implant failure. Any mobility of the implant should be reported to your dentist immediately. Early intervention can often save an implant that may otherwise fail due to neglect or delayed care.

Dental Implants in Philadelphia, PA

At Opus Dental Esthetics, we are dedicated to helping you maintain your oral health. If you have a missing tooth, dental implants could restore your bite, smile, and confidence. Both Dr. Conover and Dr. Vafa are dedicated to providing safe and effective implant dentistry services. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options for tooth loss.

 

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What to Do When You Chip a Tooth: Expert Treatment Options in Center City Philadelphia

It happens in an instant. You’re enjoying a meal, maybe relaxing after a long day, and then you feel it, that unmistakable, rough edge against your tongue. You’ve chipped a tooth.

First, take a deep breath. It’s a scary moment, but you’re not alone, and you’re certainly in the right place. Here at Opus Dental Esthetics in Center City, Philadelphia, we often treat chips and fractures. The good news? Modern dentistry offers incredible ways to repair not just the look of your tooth, but its full strength and function.

Step One: Don’t Panic, Do This

If you chip a tooth, here are the two most important steps to take immediately:

  • Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to keep the area clean.
  • Call our office. Even if you aren’t in pain, it’s important to have a dentist look at it. A chip can create a hiding spot for bacteria, which could lead to decay down the road.

When you call Opus, you’ll be met by a team that understands the importance of oral health and comfort. We strive to see patients as soon as possible to address immediate concerns. We’ll work with you to get you in for an exam and schedule treatment. If we aren’t able to see you within a day or two and you have a true emergency, we’ll recommend a nearby emergency dentist who can help immediately because we know that a chipped tooth isn’t just a dental issue. It can affect your confidence and your comfort.

The Right Fix Depends on the Chip

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for a chipped tooth. This is where the expert coordination of care we talk about really comes into play. During your visit, one of our doctors, whether it’s Dr. Conover with his artist’s eye for facial harmony or Dr. Vafa with his prosthodontist’s precision in tooth restoration, will evaluate the break.

Here are the most common paths we take to restore your smile:

For a Minor Chip (Dental Bonding)

If the chip is small and mostly cosmetic, especially on a front tooth, dental bonding is often the quickest and most artistic solution. We use a tooth-colored composite resin, the same material used for white fillings, to carefully sculpt the missing part of your tooth. Dr. Conover and his team have a gift for this. We don’t just fill in the gap; we shape the resin to reflect light just like your natural enamel, so the repair is virtually invisible. The best part? It’s often completed in a single visit.

For a Larger Break (Porcelain Veneers)

If the chip is larger or if you have other minor flaws you’d like to address, porcelain veneers might be the ideal solution. Think of a veneer as a custom-made, ultra-thin jacket for the front of your tooth. We design it to match the color, shape, and even the translucency of your surrounding teeth. Because of our close collaboration with master ceramists, we can achieve results that are not just strong but truly exquisite and natural-looking.

For a Significant Break or Fracture (Dental Crown)

If the chip is so large that the tooth’s structure is compromised, or if the tooth is fractured, a dental crown is needed to protect it. A crown fits over the entire tooth like a cap, holding it together and restoring its full strength so you can chew comfortably again. At Opus, we use advanced digital dentistry to ensure these crowns fit precisely, often resulting in a bite that feels completely natural.

Why Trust Your Smile to Opus?

Your smile is worth protecting. When you come to us with a chipped tooth, you’re not just getting a repair. You’re getting a team that takes the time to understand your goals, your facial structure, and your concerns.

Dr. Conover and Dr. Vafa lead a practice built on unmatched attention to detail. We don’t believe in quick fixes that look like quick fixes. We believe in restoring your smile so you can speak confidently, eat comfortably, and share a laugh without a second thought.

If you’ve chipped a tooth, don’t wait. Contact our Center City Philadelphia office today at 215-772-3100 or request a consultation online. Let us help you get your smile back to its beautiful, healthy best.

 

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What’s the Best Teeth Whitening For You?

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments. In a recent survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, participants were asked to name the one thing they would most like to improve about their smiles. The most common response was “whiter and brighter teeth.” For many patients, teeth whitening is the easiest and most cost-effective way to brighten the smile.

What’s The Best Teeth Whitening For You?

When it comes to teeth whitening, there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. We offer several options and will help you choose the best teeth whitening method for your situation.

The most important step we take in all of our treatments, including teeth whitening, is the exam and consultation. During this appointment, you will meet our dental team, and we will review your oral health. Our team carefully checks for undetected conditions that could affect the esthetic outcome.

Steps to Prevent or Reduce Tooth Sensitivity

Patients concerned about sensitivity will be happy to know that, with new products and refinements in teeth-whitening procedures, patients are reporting significantly less sensitivity. Any sensitivity that occurs during professionally supervised whitening resolves after the treatment is completed.

Making Sure You Get the Best Results

Patients who are considering teeth whitening treatment are often very concerned that their results look natural. We select the highest-quality teeth whitening products to deliver the most natural-looking results.

In addition, we monitor patients’ whitening treatments and give the teeth a chance to stabilize in color before proceeding with other cosmetic or restorative treatments. You can be assured that your whiter, brighter teeth will look attractive and natural.

Schedule a Teeth Whitening Consultation

If you have discolored teeth, contact our Philadelphia dental office to schedule a teeth whitening consultation. Call 215-772-3100 or request a consultation online.

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Dental Implants Q & A

Do you have one or more missing teeth? Do you want to fill the gaps in your smile? Dental implants can be a great option for patients who want to restore a missing tooth or teeth. They provide stability and promote oral health by preventing shifting teeth and overcrowding. Our team offers dental implants and other restorative treatments at our Philadelphia, PA, dental office. We collaborate with patients individually to help them find dental solutions tailored to their specific needs. If you want to know more about implants, learn the answers to frequently asked questions about dental implants below:

Dental Implant FAQs

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a restorative treatment option that consists of a titanium post, abutment, and dental crown. The titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone and allowed a healing period of three to six months so that it can fuse with bone tissue. An abutment connects the titanium post to the dental crown, which covers the implant like a cap. Dental crowns are crafted to look like natural teeth and are made from a sturdy ceramic material.

Do dental implants hurt?

We use anesthesia during the dental implant procedure to numb the treated area. You may feel some pain after the procedure, but not excessive pain. Please contact our office if you are in pain several days after the procedure.

Can you receive dental implants immediately after a tooth extraction?

Sometimes our clinicians can perform a tooth extraction and dental implant procedure on the same day. But this is not the case for all patients. However, waiting too long to place a dental implant can make the procedure more difficult, so it is important to replace a missing tooth or teeth soon after extraction.

What benefits do dental implants offer?

Dental implants offer multiple benefits to patients who are missing teeth. Some of these benefits include:

  • Improved oral health
  • Durability
  • Longevity

Placing dental implants into the jawbone can prevent common problems that arise from missing teeth, such as:

  • Overcrowding
  • Shifting teeth
  • Tooth decay
  • Speech issues
  • Misaligned bite

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Restore missing teeth today with one or more dental implants. Call us at 215-772-3100 or request a consultation below.

 

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Our Practice Location

Opus Dental Esthetics Location in Philadelphia, PA

Opus Dental Esthetics

1528 Walnut St Ste 1800
Philadelphia, PA 19102

Hours

Monday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Tuesday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Wednesday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: Closed

Phone

215-772-3100

Email

[email protected]