January 16, 2024October 30, 2023 by PracticeCafe

invisible align concept, invisalign clear aligners

Since its introduction in the late ‘90s, Invisalign clear aligner therapy has been a popular treatment for patients wishing to straighten their smiles. But as Invisalign has grown in prominence, certain misconceptions about the treatment have started to spring up. Below, we debunk some of the most common myths about Invisalign clear aligners.

Myth #1 – Invisalign Takes Longer Than Braces to Straighten Your Smile

One unfounded concern that people have about Invisalign is that it takes longer to see results compared to traditional metal braces. In fact, Invisalign treatment typically lasts the same amount of time as metal braces, and in some cases, it can even straighten your smile more quickly. The main factors that determine treatment time are the complexity of your orthodontic needs and how diligent you are about wearing your Invisalign aligners. Invisalign’s effectiveness is dependent on you wearing the trays for at least 20–22 hours each day! They should really only be removed when eating or drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing.

Myth #2 – Invisalign Can Only Treat Minor Misalignments

Another common myth is that Invisalign clear aligners can only handle minor orthodontic issues. Invisalign is an excellent option for fixing mild to moderate misalignment. You may be surprised at what Invisalign can do!

Myth #3 – Invisalign Is Uncomfortable

All orthodontic treatment is going to cause some discomfort from time to time. That said, compared to a mouthful of metal brackets and wires, Invisalign is the more comfortable choice. Invisalign trays are custom-made from smooth, nonirritating plastic. There are not any wires that can poke your cheeks or gums. The initial soreness of a new set of aligners will diminish over time as your mouth adjusts to your treatment.

Invisalign Clear Aligner Therapy in Hermitage, TN

If you have additional questions about Invisalign or remain unsure that clear aligners will work for you, please schedule a consultation with our team at Hermitage Dental Group. We’ll conduct a brief exam and discuss your orthodontic treatment options. We would be delighted to hear from you!

October 30, 2023September 30, 2023 by PracticeCafe

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from porcelain or composite resin. They are bonded to the front surface of teeth to enhance their appearance.

Dental veneers are popular due to their ability to quickly and permanently address a variety of issues in a natural-looking way. For example, veneers can correct many cosmetic issues, including stained, discolored, misaligned, chipped, or worn teeth.

If you’re ready to take a step in enhancing the appearance of your smile, here are things you should know before taking the plunge!

Irreversible Process

While dental veneers are not permanent, they are an irreversible treatment. Veneer placement involves enamel removal from the tooth’s surface. This means you’ll need to get new veneers when your current ones wear down to keep your teeth protected. Well-maintained veneers can last for 10-15 years or more. Regular dental checkups are crucial for their longevity.

Materials for Veneers

Two common types of dental veneers include porcelain and composite veneers. Porcelain offers a natural look and is stain-resistant, while a composite material is more affordable. The cost of dental veneers varies based on material, location, and the number of teeth treated. It’s also important to note that your dental insurance might not cover getting veneers since it is considered a cosmetic procedure.

Customization

Veneers are customized to blend in with your natural teeth in terms of color, shape, and size, ensuring a harmonious smile.

Temporary Veneers

Temporary veneers may be placed between appointments while permanent ones are being crafted in a dental laboratory.

Maintenance

You’ll need to take good care of your veneers. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, floss every day, routinely visit the dentist, and avoid tobacco products and habits that could damage your veneers, such as biting on hard objects and using your teeth as tools.

Dental Veneers in Hermitage, TN

Dental veneers can be a transformative solution for achieving the smile of your dreams. Understanding these key points can help you make an informed decision about whether veneers are right for you! If you need additional help, our team at Hermitage Dental Group can assess your oral health and discuss your expectations. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

October 31, 2022 by PracticeCafe

brown woman in a yellow tanktop points to her smile after fixing her teeth with dental bonding

At Hermitage Dental Group, we offer comprehensive dental services, including cosmetic dentistry. Today, we want to talk about one of our lesser-known cosmetic services that can fix minor aesthetic issues: dental bonding.

What Is Dental Bonding?

Even though your tooth enamel is the strongest material in your body, it is not invincible. Chipping or cracking a tooth can happen to anyone. If you have a damaged tooth, you may be a good candidate for dental bonding. During the procedure, we use a tooth-colored, composite resin to fix the chip or crack to restore its natural appearance.

Does Dental Bonding Work for Everyone?

Not everyone is a good candidate for dental bonding. We usually use dental bonding on teeth with minor cosmetic damage. Teeth with severe decay or damage may need a different restorative treatment. Also, dental bonding may not be a good option if you’re considering whitening your teeth in the future as the bond material will not change color.

How Long Does Dental Bonding Take?

Dental bonding can usually be completed in a single visit without requiring anesthesia. First, our team will select a composite resin color that matches your natural tooth. Then, we’ll prepare your existing tooth for the bond by creating a rough surface. We’ll add the resin to the damaged area and carefully form it to repair the damage. Last, we’ll set the area with a UV light. Once the area is dry, we can make any necessary adjustments to the shape of the tooth by polishing it.

To ask our team any questions about dental bonding or to schedule an appointment at Hermitage Dental Group, please contact us today! We look forward to hearing from you.

June 30, 2022May 31, 2022 by PracticeCafe

black woman in a striped shirt against a blue wall smiles after cosmetic dentistry

Two big parts of dentistry are preventing issues from developing and then fixing any issues that occur, but they’re not the only specialties of dental care. There’s a whole world of cosmetic dentistry that’s centered on a smile’s aesthetics, like the color, alignment, and shape of teeth. Modern dental patients today have numerous treatment options to get the smile they’ve always wanted.

Here’s how cosmetic dentistry could help boost your confidence:

Make Your Dream Smile a Reality

We use our smile to greet the world and communicate. If you’re not happy with how your smile looks, it could affect everything from how you strike up conversations with people to how you pose in photos to how you handle job interviews. That’s why you really can’t put a price on a beautiful, confident smile.

If there are things that you’ve always wished you could change about your smile, cosmetic dentistry can help make that a reality. With so many different treatments that fall under the umbrella of cosmetic dentistry, you could whiten your teeth with professional teeth whitening, fix chipped teeth with dental bonding, change the shape of teeth with porcelain veneers, and more.

Turn Back the Clock

A whiter, brighter, and more uniform smile doesn’t just look nice, it can also make you look years younger. Think about it this way: when someone looks healthy and fit, you may notice a certain radiant glow about them that makes them seem more youthful than they really are. The same applies to teeth! Boosting the shade of your teeth and replacing any teeth that may be missing can turn back the clock on your smile. And how your smile looks can have a huge impact on your overall appearance.

Interested in learning how cosmetic dentistry can help you get your dream smile? Schedule a consultation with us at Hermitage Dental Group! We are proud to offer a variety of cosmetic treatments at our dental practice.

May 3, 2022July 31, 2021 by PracticeCafe

Brunette woman in a striped shirt smiles after a smile makeover in Hermitage, TN

If a smile makeover sounds tempting to you, we’re here to make your dreams a reality. In this post, we give an overview of this life-changing option available at Hermitage Dental Group!

What Is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is also known as a full mouth reconstruction. This is when we completely transform your smile to address any and all existing cosmetic and functional dental issues. We may utilize a variety of cosmetic and restorative techniques in order to fix what’s not serving you well. The result will be a dazzling smile that will leave you with the confidence to show it off. Improved confidence can contribute to positive changes in every aspect of your life, from your relationships to your career to your overall mental health and happiness!

Who Is a Candidate for a Smile Makeover?

Many of our patients could benefit from a smile makeover. Candidates may simply be unhappy with the look of their smile, but others may be majorly affected by issues like broken, or even missing, teeth. Some of our patients plan their smile makeovers to be done in advance of a major life event, such as a wedding, so that they can look and feel their absolute best on their big day.

Components of a Smile Makeover

Your smile makeover will depend on your unique situation, smile needs, goals, and budget. You can choose from a variety of different procedures to address your smile’s challenges. These can include implants, teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, crowns, dentures, Invisalign, and more!

Smile Makeovers in Hermitage, TN

Ready to take the first step toward a smile transformation? Here at Hermitage Dental Group, we have all of the services you need to completely revamp and perfect your smile, and they’re just a consultation away. Contact us today to schedule a visit!

July 27, 2021April 1, 2021 by GPGDev

Teeth Whitening treatments are popular for patients that have tooth discoloration, or for those that just want a brighter smile. Whitening your teeth can be done safely and there are several options to choose from. If the directions are followed patients can successfully whiten their teeth with no side effects. Teeth whitening boosts self-confidence, can change a patient’s smile quickly, and make you feel great.

What Are My Options for Teeth Whitening?

If you have decided to whiten your teeth there are a few options to choose from. We offer teeth whitening treatments in our office, and this typically is a faster way to get the results you desire. We also offer a treatment you can take with you and whiten in the convenience of your own home.

Both options give great results patients are happy with. In addition to those two options there are over the counter whitening treatments that can help you whiten your teeth. Part of the evaluation process is to take a good look at your teeth and the level of discoloration, your age, and dental history to help you decide what treatment options will work best.

What Are Common Side Effects With Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is perfectly safe, but there are a few side effects that patients can experience.

Teeth Sensitivity

When you whiten your teeth the product gets deep into the tooth enamel. In some cases patients can experience sensitivity after teeth whitening treatments. We may recommend you use a sensitive type tooth paste to help with any sensitivity after whitening.

Irritated Gums

Gum irritation is another common issue when patients decide to whiten your teeth. In some cases patients are sensitive to the whitening treatment. This typically goes away after your treatment is complete.

Whitening treatments can be done periodically to keep teeth looking bright white. Whitening treatments are for patients with natural teeth. If you have implants, crowns, bridges, or dentures and want to whiten your teeth, we recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss your options. If you suffer from many cavities we recommend those are treated before any whitening treatment begins. Depending on each case we can help determine if teeth whitening is right for you.

How To Keep My Teeth Looking White

There are things you can do at home to help keep your teeth looking bright white. Avoiding food and beverages that may stain your teeth like coffee, tea, or red wine. If you do eat or drink something that may stain your teeth it is a good idea to rinse or brush right afterwards to help decrease staining.

Looking To Whiten Your Teeth?

Teeth whitening is a great way to give you a bright white smile. Whitening your teeth is safe and easy, and does not cause many side effects or issues. Scheduling a consultation with our team to examine your teeth and discuss your goals is a great way to start the process. Our skilled professionals will help you decide what treatment is best, and help get you on the road to a brighter smile.

If you are interested in scheduling a consultation to find out if teeth whitening is right for you, contact our office and our staff will be happy to assist you.

July 27, 2021March 15, 2021 by Admin

Choosing to whiten your teeth is a way to brighten your smile and boost confidence. Many patients look for a process that lasts the longest and requires minimal maintenance going forward. Teeth whitening options include in office whitening systems, systems you take home given to you by your dentist, and over the counter treatments. Talking with your dentist about your goals can help you to choose the best treatment that will work for you.

Teeth whitening targets two types of stains. The first is intrinsic, and this type of discoloration is more permanent and caused by an injury, medications, or fluoride overexposure. Intrinsic stains can be harder to whiten and may not respond well to teeth whitening. The other type of stain is extrinsic. Extrinsic stains are stains on the surface or outer layer of enamel. This type of stain is caused by dark liquids or foods. The best way to treat both types of stains is with a professional tooth whitening system.

What Procedure Is the Best and Will Last the Longest?

The systems provided by your dentist in their office are typically the strongest and long lasting treatments. They offer the most dramatic results and are quicker compared to other methods. Typically this type of whitening treatment takes less than an hour, and uses a light to activate the gel to penetrate deeply into your teeth. Once you have completed the in office process you can opt to take a whitening treatment kit with you. This allows patients to keep up with their whitening treatments at home.

Many in office treatments can target both intrinsic and extrinsic stains giving patients amazing results in little time. In office treatments can brighten teeth up to 16 shades lighter and the results last longer. In some cases depending on the treatment used, touch up treatments afterwards are not required.

Scheduling a Consultation

The first step to whiter brighter teeth is scheduling a consultation in our office. This gives our doctor the opportunity to examine your teeth and gums, and determine if you are a good candidate. Our team discusses each patient’s goals, and we work with you to choose the whitening system that will work best. Documenting your progress from start to finish is a great way for patients to track their results.

Interested in Finding Out More?

Take that next step to a whiter smile, and inquire about our whitening treatments. We care about your oral health and want you to be proud of your smile.

To schedule your teeth whitening consultation, contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

July 27, 2021February 21, 2021 by Admin

Cosmetic dentists can help enhance or improve the appearance of your teeth, gums, and jaw. If you are unhappy with your smile, or have cracked, broken, or misshapen teeth, finding a good cosmetic dentist is important. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the overall appearance of your smile. This includes the color, shape, size, and position of your teeth.

Searching for a good cosmetic dentist can be stressful, but knowing what to look out for can help you find a dentist that is perfect for you.

What to Consider When Searching for a Cosmetic Dentist

Check for a dentist’s credentials by visiting their website and reading a biography about the doctor. If this is not available contact the office directly to collect this information.
Ask for referrals and talk to people that have had prior cosmetic dental procedures.
Look for a dentist that has continuing education. Continuing education shows that a dentist is constantly improving their knowledge, learning new techniques using the latest technology, and expanding on skills.
When reading their biography look to see how long they have been practicing cosmetic dentistry and how many procedures they have done over the years.
Look at before and after photos to help get a good idea of the doctor’s skills.
Schedule a cosmetic consultation to learn about the doctor and practice. Consultations allow you to discuss your concerns, and learn about what treatment options are available. This will also give you a good idea if you feel comfortable with the dentist you choose.

Choosing the best cosmetic dentist for you is important. Knowing their background, expertise, and work they have done can help you make a decision. Achieving that perfect smile to boost confidence, or correct an issue can be life changing. Taking charge of your dental health can give you that smile you have always wanted.

Looking to Schedule a Cosmetic Consultation?

Our detailed consultation process gives patients the ability to discuss their concerns and smile goals. Our skilled team will examine your mouth, teeth, and jaw and recommend treatment options that work for you. Starting with a consultation can give you the ability learn about our doctors, practice, and help you decide what treatment may be best.

To schedule your cosmetic consultation and begin the process to that perfect smile, contact our office and our staff will be happy to assist you.

July 27, 2021December 30, 2020 by Admin

Cosmetic Dentists help enhance or improve the appearance of the teeth, gums, or jaw. When patients are not happy with their smile, or those who have chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth, cosmetic dentistry can help give you that perfect smile. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the overall appearance of a patient’s smile including the color, position, shape, and size of the teeth. Understanding what a cosmetic dentist can do will help you decide what type of dentist you may need.

Cosmetic dentistry offers many services to enhance your smile. We offer a detailed consultation process that allows our team to examine your teeth and mouth to determine the recommended treatment. We also take the time to let the patient explain their concerns, and what they like or dislike about their smile. Our team is there every step of the way to help guide our patients, and choose a treatment that works best for them.

What Cosmetic Services Are Available?

Smile Makeovers
Facial Rejuvenation
Teeth Whitening
Invisalign
Gum Contouring
Dental Crowns
Porcelain Veneers
Dental Bonding
Dental Implants

Cosmetic dentistry can help brighten your smile, straighten your teeth, and make your teeth look more uniform and natural. If you have damage or an injury, you do not need to live with these issues. Cosmetic dentistry can help fix these imperfections. Missing teeth can be corrected, and you can enjoy a beautiful smile without anyone knowing you had missing teeth. Leaving missing teeth in your mouth can lead to bone loss or other complications, so it is important to address your issues as soon as possible.

Looking to Take That Next Step?

Taking that first step to call our office is all you have to do to get on the road to a beautiful smile you can be proud to show off. Creating beautiful smiles is what we do, and our team is here to provide the very best care available. Using the latest technology we can transform your teeth into a bright white smile.

If you are unhappy with your smile, or are interested in finding out what procedures are available, contact our office, and our staff will be happy to set up your consultation.

March 6, 2020February 13, 2020 by GPGDev

Although all the ailments and symptoms seem to be attributed directly or indirectly to wisdom teeth, the latter cannot be responsible for everything that happens in the mouth and the face (orofacial region) of a person. The third molars can indeed cause several problems during their development and their eruption, or even after their extraction, but it seems too often that, when one cannot find another cause for certain symptoms in the orofacial region, the wisdom teeth quickly become the ideal scapegoat, sometimes with reason, but very often also without scientific foundation!

The scientific literature reports that several symptoms and problems can be associated with wisdom teeth, which, we say, represent “surprise boxes” when they are not downright “time bombs.” Indeed, a wisdom tooth that has always been asymptomatic can suddenly cause a variety of problems at any age.
We will try here to share things by describing what could be connected to these third molars and what is not or is less likely to be.
In some cases, and they are not uncommon, wisdom teeth do not cause any symptoms, despite the possible complications they can cause. It is, therefore, important to have them regularly monitored by a dentist from adolescence if they are not extracted.

The dentist is the health practitioner who has the expertise to assess them during their growth, determine their direction of eruption and the potential problems they may cause, as well as make recommendations on their management and extraction.

The third molars are sometimes absent, even in adulthood, so it is possible that they are never a problem, but we must not ignore them!

STRONG PROBABLE SYMPTOMS

Symptoms that are most likely related to wisdom teeth are accepted and well documented in the scientific literature; they are part of the common and frequent symptoms. It should be noted that the different symptoms described below can be mild or severe, depending on each individual.

LOCALIZED OR RADIATING PAIN

This pain, when associated with wisdom teeth, is most often felt in the immediate area of wisdom teeth. It can also be felt or irradiated in the region of the temporomandibular joints ( TMJs ), in the back of the mouth near the ears or the upper or lower jaw.

In such a case, pain is often a sign that the third molar is advancing in the alveolar bone and the gum towards the surface or against the adjacent tooth. She is trying to erupt.

This pain can be cyclical, like some other symptoms, because teething can be done “in waves” with moments of calm.

PAINFUL GUMS

Sensitive, swollen, red (inflamed) or bleeding more easily in the back of the mouth can be associated with wisdom teeth.

Be careful, gum bleeding and redness can very often be symptoms of a gum or periodontal disease which must be taken seriously; these symptoms have no connection with wisdom teeth.