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Cosmetic Dentistry
Teeth Whitening
o Crest white strips - It has more concentration than what you would get over the counter for better results.
o Take home whitening kits - Whiter Teeth at your convenience- whether your teeth are stained, naturally dark or just need that extra shine- whitening is the answer. North Star offers a broad range of take-home whitening products and is eager to help you find the right solution for you. Whether you are limited by price, time, or application comfort, we have a product for you. Please schedule an appointment to determine the perfect whitening for you. Zoom - Discus Dental, Opalescence - Ultradent, ExcelNite - Discus Dental, Platinum - Colgate.
o In Office whitening - whiten your teeth without sensitivity in about an hour with the state of art, arc-energized Zoom 3- Advanced Power system. It is safe, effective, very fast and performed only by a dental professional. Zoom Advanced Power raises the bar to a new level of performance while delivering an average of eight shades, and sometimes as many as twelve, in less than an hour. Zoom 3 Whitening is ideal for anyone looking for immidiate results! For more information visit www.discusdental.com
Veneers - Porcelain Laminate Veneers, or simply "veneers", are custom-made porcelain wafers that the dentist places over the fronts of the teeth to enhance their appearance and also to repair damage. Veneers can dramatically change a person's smile and help improve their self-confidence.
In the 1920's and 30's, actors, actresses and other performers would often go to the extreme measure of having their teeth extracted and dentures (false teeth) made to improve their smile. Fortunately, this radical procedure has given way to veneers, a far more conservative approach. Veneers are what give many Hollywood movie stars that dazzling smile we see on the silver screen.
Veneers can be used to improve a wide variety of cosmetic dental problems. They can whiten stained or discolored teeth, close gaps between teeth, "correct" a crooked smile without the need for braces, repair chips and imperfections, and create a more attractive or youthful looking smile. The procedure usually involves removing only a thin amount of the outermost layer of the tooth, called the enamel. The dentist then takes molds (impressions) of the mouth. Temporary veneers are then placed for the patient to wear while the permanent veneers are being made. The procedure usually takes between one and a half and two hours.
Next, the laboratory carefully crafts the porcelain into veneers. In about two weeks, the veneers are ready for the dentist to fasten to the fronts of the teeth. This process improves the teeth's appearance and strength.
Porcelain Crowns - Porcelain crowns are porcelain coverings that are used to restore damaged or chipped tooth. They are very similar to Porcelain Veneers with the exception that they are mainly used when a large portion of tooth is missing or the tooth's structure is weak, or the tooth is completely missing. All-porcelain crowns have an amazingly natural look with no unsightly black margins since they have no metal. It replaces the enamel, hence provides strength by reinforcing the tooth. They reflect light just like a real tooth, plus porcelain will not stain like natural teeth. It is durable.
Bonding - Cosmetic bonding can breath new life into your smile. It is used to restore your broken, chipped or discolored teeth. It can also be used to eliminate gaps between your teeth. While cosmetic bonding costs less than veneers, the results may not last as long, as bonded teeth are less durable than teeth with porcelain veneers, however they can be a great choice in creating the smile you've always wanted. Utilizing a natural-colored enamel like material, the doctor can add a new layer to your teeth, correcting minor imperfections, improving surface color, and even creating straighter teeth. Bondings can also be important in improving teeth with a "thin" or "sharp" appearance. The doctor adds some natural enamel thus creating a more fuller and perfect smile. However, bonding cannot replace veneers totally, some patients are more suited for veneers - to determine the best choice for you schedule an appointment today.
Enamel Shaping - Enamel shaping is a process of contouring natural teeth to improve their overall appearance. When teeth are slightly crowed or uneven, or when eyeteeth appear too long, enamel shaping may be used to correct the flaw. Enamel shaping involves modifying teeth by removing or contouring enamel to create harmony and balance in the mouth. This more conservative process cannot solve all problems. However, crowded teeth may need braces. If so, the doctor may provide treatment or refer to a specialist in orthodontics.
Enamel shaping is one of the many terms used to describe a process of shaping natural teeth to improve their appearance. It is also known as odontoplasty, enameloplasty, stripping, recontouring, slenderizing and re-shaping.
When teeth become crowded or uneven or incisal edges appear rough, enamel shaping may be used to correct the flaw. This process cannot solve all problems, however. Sometimes more extensive treatment is necessary or re-shaping may be used in conjunction with other treatments.
Enamel shaping is usually quick and painless. Anesthesia is not necessary and the results can be seen immediately.
Inlays / onlays - to repair damage involving over ½ of the tooth's biting surface, rather than using a simple filling, or crown an inlay, or an onlay is often used. An inlay is similar to a filling and lies inside the cusp tips of the tooth; an onlay is a more extensive reconstruction that covers one or more cusps of a tooth. Inlays and onlays are both traditionally made of gold; however, porcelain is now becoming the material of choice because of its strength and potential to match the natural color of your tooth.
Inlays and onlays are applied in two dental visits.
Typically fillings can reduce the strength of the tooth by up to 50%. Inlays and onlays, however, because they are bonded directly into the tooth with special resins, can actually increase the strength of the tooth by up to 75%; as a result, they can last from 10-30 years, and in some cases, provide a good alternative to a crown.
Restorative Dentistry
Tooth Colored Fillings - Till recently, patients did not have much choice but to get the traditional silver-mercury fillings done; therefore we still see so many people with the old style, dark, unsightly, metallic fillings. These fillings tend to contract and expand with the temperature of the foods we eat, hence causing marginal decay, corrosion of the silver and possible fracture of the teeth over time. However, at North Star we use composite resin ( tooth colored ) with the most natural look to restore your teeth. This remarkable material not only seals but also strengthens the tooth being restored along with giving it a totally natural look!!
Inlays / onlays - Inlays and Onlays restore the integrity of the tooth by replacing damaged and decayed tooth structure, without removing healthy natural tooth structure. An inlay is similar to a filling and lies inside the cusp tips of the tooth; an onlay is a more extensive reconstruction that covers one or more cusps of a tooth. Inlays and onlays are both traditionally made of gold; however, porcelain is now becoming the material of choice because of its strength and potential to match the natural color of your tooth.
Inlays and onlays are applied in two dental visits, as they are fabricated in the laboratory.
Typically fillings can reduce the strength of the tooth by up to 50%. Inlays and onlays, however, can actually increase the strength of the tooth by up to 75%, as they are directly bonded to the tooth with special resins; as a result, they can last from 10-30 years. They preserve more of your natural tooth structure and feel like your own tooth too hence in some cases, provide a good alternative to a crown!
Bridge - a bridge bridges the gap where one or more teeth may have been, with artificial teeth. Unlike a partial denture, a bridge is fixed and cannot be taken out of the mouth. It uses the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth/teeth space, for support.
A bridge has several advantages:
- They fill the unsightly spaces left by the lost teeth.
- They help support the teeth adjacent to, and directly opposite, the missing tooth or teeth.
When a tooth is lost, the adjacent teeth may shift position. The tooth opposite to the lost tooth may begin to extend out of its socket.
Shifted teeth are harder to clean, making them more susceptible to cavities and also leading to permanent bone loss, hence loosing more teeth. - They correct an altered bite, hence improving the functioning of the temporomandibular joint - the TMJ or jaw joint.
- a Bridge improves the chewing ability and speech, which is usually altered due to missing teeth!
- It reduces the stress on the other teeth and muscles of the mouth/jaw, which may be caused by chewing on one side only!
- A bridge helps maintain the natural shape of your face and may help support your lips and cheeks. The loss of a back tooth may cause your mouth to sink and your face to look older.
A bridge procedure is usually completed in two to three office visits, since it is fabricated in the laboratory. It can be made of different materials; gold, metal, porcelain or porcelain fused to metal.
Crowns - Crowns are used when large fillings wear out, when a tooth is cracked, or when making cosmetic improvements to the teeth.
A filling cannot strengthen a tooth, and sometimes there is not even enough tooth structure for a bonded onlay. A crown is placed over a tooth, replacing most of its enamel. It surrounds the tooth, giving it strength and providing a strong, durable biting surface.
Placing a crown requires two office visits. During the first visit, any decayed material is removed and the teeth are shaped to receive the crown. After taking an impression of the prepared tooth, a temporary crown is placed for a short time; while the laboratory creates the permanent crown. On the second visit, the temporary crown is replaced with the permanent crown and the bite is checked and adjusted if needed. The crown and its bond to the supporting tooth are extremely strong. You will be able to use the crowned tooth exactly as you would any other tooth.
Indications for a crown :
- Large fillings involving half to three quarters the tooth or more, resulting in a weakened tooth increasing likelihood for fracture.
- Endodontic therapy (root canal treatment), this weakens the tooth increasing likelihood of fracture, this is especially true for posterior teeth (premolars and molars).
- Cracked teeth in which the crack is deep enough and in a direction which can lead to pulpal death or tooth loss.
- To improve the contours and appearance of existing teeth.
- Teeth that are unfillable with little or no tooth structure to hold a filling above the gum line.
- To correct the occlusal plane (chewing surface alignment).
To provide contours to receive removable appliances.
Porcelain fused to metal crown is perhaps the most common form of crown, and is used where aesthetics and durability are required. PFM crowns give you good fit and esthetic.
Implant supported Crowns -
This method of tooth replacement can be very esthetic and functional for a period of time. However, a tooth supported bridge does not replace the bone that previously surrounded the root.When more than one tooth is missing, there are three common treatment options: the traditional tooth supported bridge, a removable partial denture and an implant supported bridge. In this situation the benefits of implant supported teeth are even more obvious since they look, feel and function just like natural teeth
General Dentistry
Root Canal Therapy - The goal of root canal treatment is saving the tooth! Our teeth are meant to last a lifetime. However, sometimes our teeth are irreparably damaged (damage to the pulp - often from a deep cavity or trauma to the tooth/ broken tooth). If left untreated the pulp ( nerve and blood supply of the tooth) gets infected. As the infection grows it damages the bone around the tooth sometimes causing pain and swelling or darkening of the tooth. The pain may refer to the entire face / head. Some teeth however do not show any symptoms and can flare up any day from a dormant infection!
Rather than doing an extraction, we attempt to save the tooth by performing a rootcanal treatment.
Root canal therapy consists of making a small hole in the tooth and then removing the tiny dead nerves, blood vessels and debris from each canal in the tooth. The roots are then shaped, disinfected and filled with an inert material. We use rotary endodontics which helps in better cleaning and shaping the canals making sure no decay or infection is left behind in the canals, it also helps us work efficiently giving you the direct time advantage.
Root canal treatment typically requires a series of appointments. However, at our office we can complete this procedure in one visit! This means you are numbed once and lesser missed work, school or family time!
Root canal therapy is not complete without a crown and could cause further damage and possible loss of the tooth!
Periodontal Care - An important part of regular checkups is the periodontal examination. The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth."
If the exam reveals that you have periodontitis ( gum disease), the first step to cure is root planning combined with the effects of latest time release topical anti-microbials to kill infection and help heal your gums.
Root planing is similar to normal dental cleanings, but the procedure is more aggressive and requires removal of plaque and tartar from below the gum line (hence requires numbing). Root surfaces are cleaned and smoothed with specially designed instruments. Once the accumulated plaque and calculus have been removed, a prescription anti-microbial is applied and the gums can heal, tightening around the teeth. If the disease is advanced, you may be referred to a specialist for periodontal surgery.
Maintenance therapy is an ongoing program designed to prevent periodontal disease from recurring in people who have undergone periodontal treatment or surgery.
Regular periodontal monitoring is especially important for women because of hormonal fluctuations which can affect gum tissue and menopause which can increase the likelihood of osteoporosis.
Studies suggest there is a link between osteoporosis and bone loss in the jaw. Women considering Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to help fight osteoporosis should note that this may help protect their teeth as well as other parts of the body. Women who are menopausal or post-menopausal should ask for a periodontal exam.
Teeth extraction - Tooth extraction may be required for many reasons. Sometimes teeth are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted wisdom teeth) and may need to be extracted for proper bite. The tooth may be too badly damaged, or decayed to be saved by root canal therapy. Sometimes the tooth may be loose from advanced periodontal disease (gum disease).
Infection from tooth decay or gum disease circulates throughout the body. Extraction of the diseased tooth removes the source of infection and significantly increases your overall feeling of well-being.
Depending on the tooth extracted ( the doctor will decide), the space left behind needs to be replaced with a false tooth ( bridge, implant, partial), if not , it may cause surrounding teeth to shift resulting in a bad bite!
Preventive Dentistry
Regular Checkups including cleanings and cavity detection No one has perfect dental home care. With professional cleanings and supervision, you can feel more confident about the health of your teeth and gums. You can consult with us on any concerns you may have regarding your oral health.
Dental Prophylaxis is designed to preserve health and prevent the spread of disease . The purpose of polishing tooth surfaces is to make these surfaces smooth which makes it more difficult for plaque and debris to accumulate on your teeth to cause decay or gum disease!
The sticky accumulation of bacteria on the teeth and gums is called plaque. Plaque forms continuously and should be removed daily with regular brushing and flossing. If plaque is allowed to build up, tartar (calculus) forms, which cannot be removed by brushing or flossing. The bacteria that cause periodontal disease thrive in these calculus deposits.
The regular cleanings will remove these deposits and give you a "clean slate" for your home dental care and instruct you in the proper techniques for brushing and flossing.
The dentist examines your mouth/ teeth to make sure it is in good health.
We use digital technology to help in accurate diagnosis, lesser exposure to x-rays and ofcourse faster results ( less waiting time for you!!)
Fluoride Applications - Topical fluoride is probably the most important source of prevention of tooth decay. Topical fluoride reaches the teeth directly. Fluoride makes the tooth more resistant to decay. Fluoride will combine into the tooth structure to,fonr color=ff0000> make enamel more resistant to acid attack. It is toxic to bacteria stops the bacterial from producing acids that cause tooth decay. Fluoride use can also encourage remineralization or replace minerals in the tooth surfaces that have been demineralized or broken down by bacterially produced acids which can help in repairing early decay or damage before it causes a cavity.
Fluoride treatments may begin after the age of three. Topical fluoride gel works on the outer surface of a tooth and is NOT taken in internally so a child can not overdose on fluoride. Fluoride rinses can be used after the age of six, especially in children who are drinking soft drinks and/or wearing braces. They can cut decay by about 30% if used daily. We apply fluoride gel to all children after they have had their teeth polished. We use fluoride in a foam form instead of gel because the "advantage of foam use is that less foam is required for adequate coverage of the teeth. This may reduce fluoride exposure and retention by the patient. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste provides additional reduction of cavities even if children live in areas with fluoridated water.
Dental Sealants - Everyone has tiny cracks in their teeth where decay can start. These cracks are so small that not even a single toothbrush bristle can reach them. Protective Sealants are usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars) where decay occurs most often. The bonding action of the resin seals the pits and fissures and prevents decay. It takes only a few minutes to prepare and seal each tooth.
Protective sealants act as a barrier, protecting your teeth for life.
Night Guard /Occlusal Guard/ Sports guard -
Snore Guards - Snoring can be an incredible problem for millions of Americans and their sleeping partners. The raucous noises are caused by air that flows around relazed muscles and tissue in your mouth and throat. If you've looked for relief, you may have been told that surgery was the only solution. The engineers at SilentNite have found a much more comfortable and affordable way to prevent your snores, treating you and your spouse to un-disturbed, restful sleep. The SilentNite device gets to the root of snoring by opening the airways in your throat, and reducing the vibration of muscles and soft tissue.
Mouthguard - Mouthguards should be a part of every athlete's uniform. They are as important as knee pads, helmets, and other athletic protective equipment. They protect the teeth, lips, gums, and tongue. They also can prevent children from concussions and jaw fractures. Many organized sports require mouthguards to prevent injury to children. The majority of trauma to the mouth occur when athletes do not wear mouthguards, especially in unorganized sports activities. Mouthguards should be worn while playing any sport that involves contact or the possibility of falling (especially basketball, baseball, and soccer). This includes not just organized sports at school, but also activities with friends.
Space maintainers - A Baby tooth stays in place until a permanent tooth is ready to take its place. Sometimes , however baby teeth are removed due to severe decay or get knocked out accidently. In such situations, space maintainers encourage normal development of the jaw bones and muscles, and save space for the permanent teeth and help guide them into position. If your child loses a baby tooth too soon, the teeth beside the empty space may tilt or drift into that space. Teeth in the other jaw may move up or down to fill the gap. When this happens the permanent teeth can come in crowded or crooked due to the lack of space. If left untreated, the condition may require extensive orthodontic treatment.
NTI Tension Supression system - Approved Indications for Use for the NTI Tension Suppression System (NTI-tss):
A device to be used in the prophylactic treatment of medically diagnosed migraine pain as well as migraine associated tension-type headaches, by reducing their signs and symptoms through reduction of trigeminally innervated muscular activity, and for the prevention of bruxism and TMJ syndrome through reduction of trigeminally innervated muscular activity.
Dentures
When the majority of teeth are affected by advanced periodontal disease, decay, or other problems, extracting them may be the only option.
Immediate Dentures - provided right after extraction of the teeth
Full and Partial Dentures - full denture replaces all the teeth in the mouth upper or lower while a partial replaces the few missing teeth. These dentures are removable. At North Star we work closely with you to select the appropriate shape, shade and color of the teeth and gums to be crafted into your dentures.
Implant supported Full Dentures
Technology
Digital X-rays
The digital xrays are not only convenient and fast, but they also increase the accuracy of diagnosis. Have you ever wondered about the safety of the radiation when taking the x-rays. While regular x-rays are still considered safe, the digital x-rays are only 10% as strong as the regular ones. In other words, digital x-rays cut down 90% of the radiation. So leave even slightest of concerns at home.
- Low Radiation Levels 90% less exposure
- No Dental Film
- No Waiting
- Viewable on Computer Screen
- Better Clarity
- More Accurate Diagnosis
Digital Imaging / Intra oral Cameras
Paperless office / chair side computer / digital records
Digital sterilization unit / centre
Conscious Sedation Dentistry / Nitrous Oxide / Relaxing gas
When inhaled , it has a calming effect, giving a sense of well being and relaxation. It is eliminated through normal breathing. At North Star we offer Nitrous oxide gas to all patients, to make their experience as comfortable as possible.
Also available
Tooth whitening refill kits
Sonicare toothbrushes
Kid s Imprint Dental ID bite wafers
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