Sunday, August 27, 2023

Teeth Whitening Cedar City

Eggen Dental - Cedar City Dentist - Family Dentistry

435-708-0322

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The Benefits of Teeth Whitening

Having whiter and brighter teeth can completely transform your smile. While some are blessed with pearly whites from birth, many people find their teeth darken over time from coffee, tea, red wine and other staining foods and drinks. Smoking cigarettes is another major cause of tooth discoloration. Even with good oral hygiene habits, it can be difficult to maintain that bright white smile.

Luckily, there are several effective teeth whitening options available today. From over-the-counter whitening strips and toothpastes to professional in-office procedures, you can significantly brighten your smile. Let's explore the most popular teeth whitening methods and the benefits they provide:

Over-The-Counter Whitening Products

The most accessible and affordable way to whiten your teeth is with drugstore whitening products that you use at home. These include:

Whitening Strips

Whitening strips are thin, flexible strips coated with a whitening gel. Popular brands like Crest, Rembrandt and Colgate offer whitening strip products. You simply apply the strips to your top and bottom teeth and wear them for 30 minutes or longer depending on the product directions. Used daily, whitening strips can make teeth appear several shades whiter within a few weeks. They are easy to use and ideal for maintenance between professional whitening treatments.

Whitening Trays

Whitening trays are custom-fitted plastic trays filled with a bleaching gel that is applied to the teeth. The trays keep the whitening product against your teeth to maximize contact time. This method offers more dramatic whitening results than strips, lightening teeth up to eight shades when used for two weeks. Whitening trays can be obtained over-the-counter or custom-made by your dentist.

Whitening Toothpastes

Whitening toothpastes use mild abrasives and chemical additives to polish away surface stains and actively whiten teeth. When used twice daily, you may see a couple shades of lightening over several weeks. The effects build up gradually and are best paired with occasional use of whitening strips or professional whitening. Whitening toothpaste helps maintain results.

Professional Whitening Treatments

For more significant, longer-lasting whitening, consider professional teeth whitening from your dentist. In-office procedures provide the highest concentration of whitening active ingredients to produce major brightening in just one 30-60 minute treatment. However, it comes at a higher cost than over-the-counter products. Professional options include:

In-Office Whitening

In-office whitening, also called chairside whitening, is performed at the dentist office in one visit. Your dentist will first protect your gums with a barrier gel or rubber shield. They will then apply a high-concentration peroxide-based bleaching agent to your teeth and use a special light or laser to accelerate the whitening process. This can make your teeth up to eight shades whiter in one hour.

Custom-Fit Whitening Trays

Your dentist can provide custom-fitted whitening trays and supply concentrated peroxide whitening gel for at-home use. The custom trays ensure the whitening gel makes maximum contact with your teeth. Wearing the trays for 1-2 hours daily for 1-2 weeks produces significant whitening. You'll need to schedule periodic maintenance appointments at your dentist for touch-ups.

Whitening Toothpaste with Micro-Polishers

Some professional-grade whitening toothpastes contain special micro-polisher particles to better remove surface stains from teeth. These are more abrasive than regular whitening toothpastes and should only be recommended by your dentist, as improper use could damage tooth enamel. Used under dental supervision, micro-polisher whitening toothpastes can safely optimize stain removal.

The Benefits of a Brighter Smile

Beyond just improving your appearance, teeth whitening offers some great health and social benefits. Here are a few of the top perks of a whiter smile:

Improved self-esteem and confidence in your smile
A more youthful appearance as whitening can reverse years of discoloration
Reduced stained plaque buildup for better oral health
A positive impression on others in social, dating and career contexts
Ability to enjoy staining foods and drinks without worrying about tooth shade
Whiter teeth to better showcase dental work like veneers and braces

So don't be afraid to flash those pearly whites! Teeth whitening is safe, accessible and can give you the stunning smile you've always wanted. Consult with us to determine which options are best for achieving your desired shade of white.

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"Cedar City Dentists"

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#Familydentists
#Extractions
#teeth
#wisdom-tooth-extraction

Cedar dental, cedar city dentists, Family dentists, Tooth Extractions, teeth, wisdom tooth extraction, dentist near me, dental clinic, dental care, oral health, dental hygiene, dental services, family dentist, pediatric dentist, cosmetic dentist, orthodontist, dental implants, teeth whitening, oral surgery, root canal treatment, dental check-up, gum disease treatment, tooth extraction, dental fillings, dental crowns, dental bridges, dentures

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Dental Checkups in Cedar City

Eggen Dental - Cedar City Dentist - Family Dentistry

395 S 100 W, Cedar City, UT 84720

435-708-0322

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The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups in Cedar City, UT

Going to the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings is one of the most important things you can do for your oral health and overall wellbeing. However, many people skip their routine dental visits due to fear, cost or lack of understanding of the benefits. This article will explain why regular dental checkups are so crucial and provide an overview of what to expect during a routine exam at Dr. Ben Eggen’s dental office in Cedar City, UT.

Benefits of Routine Dental Checkups

Regular dental checkups, usually twice per year, provide numerous health benefits that go far beyond just a brighter, whiter smile. Some of the key reasons why routine exams are so important include:

Early detection of cavities and tooth decay – Small problems are much easier to treat when caught early on. Waiting until you have a painful toothache leads to more complex, expensive treatments.
Preventing gum disease – Gum disease is a leading cause of adult tooth loss. Regular cleanings and checkups allow dentists to monitor your gum health and treat issues like gingivitis before they advance.
Screening for oral cancer – Dentists check your entire mouth, including your tongue, throat, cheeks and gums, for any suspicious lesions during routine exams. Early detection greatly improves outcomes for oral cancer patients.
Monitoring for signs of other diseases – Dentists can detect symptoms of diabetes, nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune disorders and more during regular appointments. Your oral health offers clues about your overall wellbeing.
Keeping teeth properly aligned – Small orthodontic problems get worse over time without treatment. Dentists can observe emerging bite issues and alignment problems and provide early intervention.
Professional whitening and stain removal – The dentist uses specialized tools to remove stains that daily brushing and flossing at home cannot tackle. This keeps your smile sparkling white.
Improving bad breath – Regular cleanings and checkups help deter halitosis. Dentists can also spot gum disease, dry mouth and other issues causing bad breath and recommend treatment.

When you come consistently for preventative care at Dr. Eggen’s Cedar City dental office, problems get addressed while they are still small. This limits the need for extensive fillings, root canals, extractions and other invasive procedures down the road.

What to Expect at Your Dental Checkup

Visiting Dr. Eggen’s office for your routine dental checkup is quick and comfortable. Appointments take 30-60 minutes depending on your needs. Here is an overview of what happens during a typical preventative care appointment:

Update medical history – It is important to inform your dentist of any new health conditions, prescriptions or supplements you are taking, as these can impact your dental treatment.
Oral cancer screening – The dentist carefully examines your face, neck, lips and entire mouth looking for lesions, discolorations or other signs of potential oral cancer. Vital since early detection drastically improves outcomes.
Examine existing restorations – Check for any problems with prior dental work such as fillings, crowns and bridges. Let the dentist know if you have any irritation or discomfort around restorations.
Cleaning above and below the gum line – A professional cleaning removes hardened plaque and tartar above and below the gum line that you cannot remove through daily brushing and flossing at home.
Assess gum health – Unhealthy gums bleed easily when probed. The dentist checks for signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease and may recommend further treatment.
Check for cavities – The dentist examines between teeth, along the gum line and all tooth surfaces for evidence of tooth decay. X-rays may be taken to check for cavities between the teeth.
Bite and alignment evaluation – Checks for problems with how the teeth come together for proper chewing function and aesthetics.
Teeth polishing – The gritty polishing paste leaves your teeth looking shiny and removes any residual stains.
Flouride treatment – A fluoride gel or varnish gets painted on your teeth to strengthen enamel and prevent future cavities.
Oral hygiene recommendations – The dentist or hygienist will demonstrate proper brushing and flossing technique and provide tips to improve your daily oral hygiene.

Some of the above services may be divided between two separate appointments, depending on your dental needs. Be sure to follow the dentist’s recommended schedule for exams and cleanings to get the full benefits.

Importance of Dental X-Rays

X-rays play a key role in routine dental exams by allowing dentists to see below the visible tooth surfaces. Standard bitewing x-rays taken once per year help detect issues including:

Small cavities between teeth – Impossible to see these areas without x-rays. Finding cavities when they are small prevents large fillings or root canals.
Abscesses – X-rays reveal abscesses or infections at the tooth root requiring treatment.
Cysts – Dental cysts do not always produce obvious symptoms but can destroy jawbone and surrounding teeth.
Impacted teeth – X-rays show teeth that fail to emerge properly or get stuck below the gums.
Excess bone loss – Bone loss due to gum disease gets diagnosed more readily with x-rays.

Dentists use minimally invasive digital x-rays with very low radiation exposure. Multiple x-ray angles give a 3D view of your mouth. The benefits far outweigh any minimal risk. Proper use of x-rays helps the dentist detect problems early and recommend effective treatment.

See Dr. Ben Eggen for Your Cedar City Dental Checkup

Dr. Ben Eggen has been practicing dentistry in Cedar City since 2019. He takes a modern, patient-centered approach to dentistry, believing in treating patients, not just teeth.

Patients appreciate Dr. Eggen’s gentle approach, taking time to explain procedures in a way that puts you at ease. He stays current on the latest advances in cosmetic and restorative treatments. Dr. Eggen can expertly restore worn teeth, replace missing teeth, correct bite alignment issues, and dramatically whiten and brighten your smile.

His state-of-the-art dental office uses digital x-rays, intraoral cameras, microscopes and the latest equipment. You will always receive an exceptionally high standard of care.

Call (435) 708-0322 now to schedule your routine dental exam and cleaning with Dr. Eggen. His friendly, knowledgeable staff assists with all financing options to make your visit seamless and affordable.

His office is conveniently located near downtown Cedar City at 395 S 100 W. Extended early morning and evening hours fit most schedules. Be proactive about protecting the health of your teeth and gums with consistent dental checkups every six months. Don’t wait until you have a painful problem. Routine cleanings and exams at Dr. Ben Eggen’s dental office will keep your smile looking and functioning at its best for many years to come.

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Dental fillings Cedar City

Eggen Dental - Cedar City Dentist - Family Dentistry

395 S 100 W, Cedar City, UT 84720

435-708-0322

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Dental fillings are an important part of maintaining good oral health. Getting a filling can help prevent further decay and protect damaged teeth. Modern dental fillings come in a variety of materials like metal, porcelain, resin, and glass ionomer. Choosing the right filling type depends on the location of the cavity, extent of damage, cost, insurance coverage and your personal preferences. This comprehensive guide will provide an overview of the most common types of dental fillings, the procedures involved, costs, benefits and risks.

Types of Dental Fillings

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings have been used for over 150 years and are made from a mixture of metals including silver, copper, tin and mercury. This material is malleable, durable and can withstand the high pressures of chewing. Amalgam fillings are strong, inexpensive, and long lasting. They are especially good for large cavities where they can bear heavy biting forces. The main downside is that they are not tooth colored and stand out with their silver hue against natural teeth.

Composite Resin Fillings

Composite resin is a tooth colored filling made from plastic and fine glass particles. These fillings are also known as white, plastic or bonded fillings. Composite fillings match the shade of natural teeth and blend in seamlessly. They allow for maximum preservation of tooth structure since they chemically bond to the surface. Composite resins can be used for both front and back teeth. However, they wear faster than amalgam and may need replacement sooner. They are more expensive than amalgam but their natural appearance makes them a popular choice.

Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain fillings, also called inlays or onlays, are made by a dental technician in a laboratory using ceramic material. They are tooth colored and create a natural looking smile. Porcelain is resistant to staining and can be matched perfectly to the surrounding tooth shade. These fillings are ideal for larger cavities in the back teeth where they can provide strength against heavy chewing forces. The tooth does require some removal to allow for the fit of the porcelain filling. This is a more expensive option but provides good durability and aesthetics.

Glass Ionomer Cement Fillings

Glass ionomer cement fillings are made from a mixture of acrylic acids and fine glass particles. They are tooth colored but do not have the translucency of composite resin fillings. These fillings release fluoride which provides an extra layer of protection against decay. They bond well to tooth structure and cost less than composite resin. Glass ionomers are most suitable for small non-biting surface cavities. They are not recommended for large fillings or back teeth since they lack the strength of other materials.

Temporary Fillings

Temporary fillings may be placed while waiting on a permanent restoration. They act as a protective bandage, keeping out food and bacteria. Some common types of temporary fillings are zinc oxide-eugenol and Cavit. Temporary fillings fall out easily and should be replaced as soon as possible.

Filling Procedures

The dentist will begin by examining the tooth and taking x-rays to determine the extent of decay. Numbing medication is applied and the decayed material is completely removed. The cavity is cleaned and shaped to allow for a proper fitting filling. Your tooth may be given a conditioning liquid to help the filling adhere. The filling material is then placed, shaped and hardened with a curing light. A drilling tool smooths out the surface for a natural feel. Finally, a polishing paste is used to buff the new filling. You should avoid chewing or putting pressure on the filling for at least an hour.

Cost of Fillings

The cost of dental fillings depends on the material, size of the cavity, insurance coverage and the dentist’s fees. Amalgam fillings are the most economical, starting at around $50-150 per tooth. Composite fillings range from $90-250 per tooth. Porcelain fillings are the highest, from $250-2500 since they involve lab work. Insurance can cover 50-80% of costs. Additional factors like tooth-colored materials versus amalgam also affect costs. Talk to your dentist about the options for your situation.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Stop decay and prevent further damage
Restore form and function
Prevent infection entering the tooth
Relief from pain and sensitivity
Avoid root canal therapy or extraction
Maintain a properly aligned bite
Preserve remaining tooth structure
Improve smile appearance with tooth colored fillings

Risks of Dental Fillings

Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold right after the procedure
Possible irritation or damage to nerve tissue from drilling
Temporary pain, swelling and inflammation as anesthetic wears off
Risk of cracking the tooth with larger fillings
Material shrinkage leading to secondary decay
Damage to other teeth while numbed during the procedure
Allergic reactions in rare cases to composite resin
Mercury toxicity risks from amalgam fillings

Proper Care of Fillings

It’s important to take good care of your fillings to increase their longevity:

Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice and flossing once daily
Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash to strengthen enamel
Avoid chewing hard foods like nuts, ice or hard candy
See your dentist regularly for examinations and cleanings
Report any cracks, pain or deterioration right away
Modify habits like teeth grinding that put excess force on fillings
Get new fillings as soon as existing ones need replacement

Conclusion

Modern dentistry offers several options for restoring damaged teeth suffering from decay. Amalgam and tooth colored composite resin are commonly used for fillings in both front and back teeth. Porcelain inlays or onlays provide durable and aesthetic restorations for larger cavities. The choice depends on the size and location of decay, cost factors and personal preferences. With proper oral care and hygiene, dental fillings can last many years before needing replacement. Regular dental visits are key to monitoring and maintaining your fillings. Keeping your natural teeth healthy should always be the priority.

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"Cedar City Dentists"

#cedardental
#cedar-city-dentists
#Familydentists
#Extractions
#teeth
#wisdom-tooth-extraction

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