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Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces

While most people would love to have well-aligned and straight teeth, some people have misaligned teeth and even misaligned jaws. In some cases, people may even find it hard to have a normal social life or a confident work life due to their dental problems. Up to 99.7% of people surveyed by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry said that a perfect smile is an invaluable asset in the work place as well as in social settings. To correct misaligned teeth, orthodontists use dental braces especially during early teenage years. Adults can also benefit from wearing dental braces. Read on to learn about some of the main differences between Invisalign and traditional braces.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces consist of small brackets that the dentist attaches to the front of each tooth using a dental bonding agent. In addition, the brackets hold wires that pull and move teeth to align them properly. Materials used to make these brackets include ceramic, plastic, and stainless steel. Your dentist may also use place springs on the arch wires to open or close gaps between teeth. The problem with braces attached to the front of the teeth is they look unsightly. In some cases, dentists attach the braces to the back of the teeth to hide them from view. However, braces attached behind the teeth can be more expensive.

Invisalign

Unlike metallic or ceramic braces, Invisalign braces are clear and barely visible. They work the same way as traditional braces and straighten misaligned teeth. To make the braces, a dentist or orthodontist creates an impression of your teeth and sends this mold to an Invisalign lab. At the lab, technicians make the clear braces and send them back to your dentist. Your dentist then fits the braces and you can go on with your normal life. After about two to three weeks, you have to go back for a new set of Invisalign braces.

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces

Invisible – To start with, Invisalign braces are barely visible. This is a big advantage because most people would not be able to notice them.
Removable – You can easily remove and reattach the braces before and after eating. This makes it easy to clean your teeth and the Invisalign braces as well. You can also eat whatever you want without worrying about food particles slipping into the braces, plaque buildup, or tooth discoloration.
Comfortable – The Invisalign braces are made of plastic material to ensure you feel comfortable wearing them. In comparison, the only way to deal with uncomfortable metallic braces is to have them removed completely. Furthermore, the process of making the braces ensures that everyone gets a set that fits his or her teeth perfectly.

If you have misaligned teeth, you do not have to stay indoors or shun social events and gatherings. You can visit Dr. Booth to have Invisalign clear braces fitted. Although traditional braces work, you may not be comfortable smiling in front of co-workers or strangers. On the other hand, Invisalign braces are custom made and barely visible. You can also take them off to floss and clean your teeth.

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Lumineers vs. Porcelain Veneers

There are many reasons people choose Lumineers or porcelain veneers every day for cosmetic dentistry. Some may have some dental issues that need to be corrected. Others may simply want to restore their smiles to a previous state. In either case, is it better to choose Lumineers or porcelain veneers? In order to answer this question, it is necessary to know a little about each option. Each choice has its own benefits as well as some disadvantages, but a comparison may also show that porcelain veneers just may be the better option for you.

What Are Lumineers?

Lumineers involve a process in which the teeth are corrected without having to shave away or drill down the teeth. The veneer is placed over the teeth without the painful process of numbing the mouth and drilling in order to accommodate the veneer. Rather, Lumineers are bonded to the teeth as they are. There is no need to remove sensitive teeth structures and the veneers use a curing light to set them in place. Furthermore, these veneers can be set in place with only two visits to the dentist.

lumineers-after-1

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

As with Lumineers, porcelain veneers are used to fix teeth that are discolored, broken, chipped, worn down, misaligned or have gaps. However, this process tends to take at least three trips to the dentist: first to diagnose and plan treatment, second to prepare the teeth, and third to bond the veneers. The first trip involves an examination to make sure the patient is a good candidate, and if so, to get an impression of the teeth for the lab. On the second trip, a very small part of the tooth enamel surface is removed. Last, the dentist will test the veneers and trim them to size before permanently bonding them to the teeth.

Veneers Austin

Lumineers or Porcelain Veneers?

Knowing how Lumineers and porcelain veneers are bonded may be a good way to help determine which process is the best option. While the Lumineers process may seem ideal, it may not be the best solution for some patients. However, porcelain veneers are thicker and are permanently bonded to the teeth so they cannot be removed like Lumineers can. It really is as simple as choosing the right procedure for the right case.

While both the Lumineers brand and porcelain veneers have their benefits, porcelain veneers may be a better long term solution.
At Silver Screen Dental, we are experienced in working with both Lumineers patients and porcelain veneers patients. If you would like to improve your smile, why not give Dr. Booth a call at 512-345-8800 to get a free consultation to determine if Lumineers or porcelain veneers are the best solution for your teeth. Contact us now.

Posted in: Cosmetic Dentistry

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Best Austin Orthodontist

Typically when someone is looking for the best orthodontist in Austin, they are looking for for the best braces/teeth straightening/Invisalign experience. At Silver Screen Dental, we have a before and after Invisalign gallery and a smile gallery for you to see exactly how we go about correcting any kind of teeth straightening issue you may have. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words.

Austin Orthodontics

When you think of orthodontics, do you picture metal braces, colorful wires, and neon rubber bands? While this method of teeth straightening may still be commonly used with children, there are better alternatives.

One of the latest innovations in orthodontics is Invisalign technology. This revolutionary process delivers straight, perfectly aligned teeth associated with traditional orthodontics in an attractive, convenient format. If the thought of committing to metal braces for a period of a few years does not appeal to you, Invisalign might be an ideal solution for you. Contact us now to see.

Instead of metal braces, you could be using clear plastic trays to realign your teeth. The trays are usually switched at two-week intervals, meaning that you start seeing change quickly. It’s a system that uses incremental change to create a desirable smile, in sharp contrast to the sudden (and often painful) adjustments made with metal braces. The trays are completely removable, so you can take them out any time you need: for eating, drinking, or even just important occasions. Invisalign will never hold you back from the lifestyle you desire. With each new tray change, you are one step closer to the smile you desire.

orthodontist Austin

The Latest Advancements in Orthodontics

If you’re searching for an Austin orthodontist, take a closer look at the newest technology from Invisalign and check for a provider who is certified. Dr. Booth is “Premier Provider” of Invisalign which is a rank that only the top dentists are able to achieve. So when you are looking for the best Austin Orthodontist, look no further than a “Premier Provider.” With this endorsement, you can trust that your teeth will be given the best, most comprehensive treatment available and a smile you’ll love.

When you start the Invisalign treatment, Dr. Booth will make an impression of your teeth. This initial impression will be scanned and digitally converted to 3-D format. Expert technicians then create the entire set of trays by digitally “moving” your teeth into their perfectly aligned positions step by step. Once you’ve received and starting wearing your first trays, the entire process typically takes about a year (cases may vary) which is much less time than traditional braces.

Dr. Booth is a true Invisalign expert, and you can trust that your results will be all that you hoped for and more. In addition, with Silver Screen Dental’s extensive dentistry offerings, you won’t have to visit both a dentist and an orthodontist. From orthodontics to bleaching to regular cleanings and dental health check-ups, you can get the dream smile you’ve always hoped for—all in one Austin location. Call today to schedule a consultation, or book online at your convenience.

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How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

invisalign-cost When doing online research for Invisalign, one of the most common questions is related to pricing. Pricing is mostly determined by the individual case and treatment needed for that case. However, at Silver Screen Dental we understand that most people are just looking for a general idea of what Invisalign will cost. In this blog post, we will discuss specifically “how much does Invisalign cost” so you have a general idea of what to expect for your treatment.

Invisalign Treatment Cost

The good news is that Invisalign’s investment tends to be inline with the cost of traditional braces, yet Invisalign has many benefits over traditional braces. As mentioned previously, the actual price you will pay will depend on your particular case. Factors that can determine overall cost of Invisalign relate to the complexity of your treatment. Every patient has a unique set of corrections such as overbites, overly crowded teeth, gaps in teeth, crossbites, and so forth.

Invisalign Express

What is Invisalign Express? Invisalign Express simply means a treatment program that requires less teeth movement and therefore a shorter treatment term. It is very common to see pricing for Invisalign “Express” and pricing for “full cases.” The reason for the difference is because the amount of trays used will obviously be less for an Express case than with a more complicated full case.

Silver Screen Dental Invisalign Pricing

With the disclaimer that all cases may vary, Silver Screen Dental is excited to announce that as of May 2013 we are currently offering a special on Invisalign for $2,500 for Express and $5,000 for full cases. Contact us now for a free consultation on your case or reach us by phone at 512-345-8800.

This discounted pricing of $2,500/5,000 is for a limited time only, so if you are reading this blog post at a later date, please contact us for accurate pricing.

If you are reading this post outside of the Austin Texas area, please note that Invisalign cost varies not only from dentist-to-dentist, but also varies by location with average pricing being $5,000 to $7,000.

Be sure to see our before and after Invisalign pictures and to visit our Invisalign service page for more details on Invisalign.

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Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

Two of the biggest fears when visiting the dentist are pain and radiation from dental X-rays. While sedation dentistry options have quelled many concerns over pain from dental procedures, dental X-ray radiation worries still tend to creep up from time to time. This post will discuss the some of the misconceptions about radiation from dental X-rays.

How Safe are Dental X-rays?

Very safe. Dental X-rays require very little exposure to radiation and the regularity for which dental X-rays are needed is so infrequent that the risk associated with dental X-rays is very, very small. How often X-rays are performed is determined by your individual risk factors for decay and gum disease. Even in extreme cases, you still won’t be exposed to as much radiation as people who live in high altitudes and experience natural radiation on a regular basis.

Dental X-ray’s Biggest Risk

Cavity
The biggest risk surrounding dental X-rays is not getting them. Dental X-rays are performed to help determine hidden tooth decay and gum problems. The risk to these types of problems going undetected is much greater than the miniscule effects of an X-ray. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that over 75% of adults in the United States have gum disease in some form, but only 60% are even aware that they have a problem.

X-ray Equipment Matters

At Silver Screen Dental we use that latest technology when it comes to our equipment. This enables us to have some of the lowest radiation X-ray equipment available. Technological advances have improved X-ray equipment tremendously over the years. With high-speed film and digital X-rays being used, a patient today will receive up to 80% less radiation exposure than older generation equipment.

Anyone who wants to ensure that they are as safe as possible when getting dental X-rays should make sure that the machines used are as advanced as possible.

Trust Your Dentist

In the end, your dentist should be your trusted advisor when it comes to any kind of concern relating to your dental needs.

Under the care of a highly qualified dentist, dental X-rays are nothing to be squeamish about. In fact, your decision to get a dental X-ray may be the most important step in ensuring your current and continued oral health.

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Dental Implants vs. Dentures

Dentures vs Implants
If you have missing teeth, then no doubt you have considered dental implants and dentures. While both solutions have their own set of benefits, it is important to note the differences between these two dental procedures so you can make the best decision. This post will discuss some of the key differences between dental implants and dentures.

Why Get Dental Implants

Unlike dentures, dental implants are fixed so there isn’t any of the slipping, clicking, slurring, or falling out that can sometimes happen with dentures. Implants are attached to your jawbone, so they act in the same fashion as your regular teeth.

Another benefit to dental implants is maintenance. Dental implants can be maintained like natural teeth; they can be brushed, cleaned or flossed just like real teeth.

Implants provide the same strength for chewing as real teeth. This is because they are fixed into the bones to enable the person to chew and bite normally.

For people looking for a natural look and secure teeth, selecting dental implants would be a valuable investment since they may last a lifetime.

Why Choose Dentures

With dental implants being a more popular choice for missing teeth, the question becomes “why choose dentures?” For starters, dentures are great value for the money assuming you have quality dentures made.

Dentures also have great flexibility in the sense that you can get partial or complete dentures, depending on how many missing teeth you are trying to replace.

Most importantly, dentures have come a long way in recent years, which is why over 45 million Americans currently wear full or partial dentures. Advancements in dental materials have created dentures that are more durable, fit better, and therefore are much more comfortable than dentures of the past.

Both dental implants and dentures can help restore a youthful appearance, allow you to enjoy foods again, and enable you speak more clearly then when missing teeth affected your speech.

While dental implants have some additional benefits over dentures…such as helping stop bone deterioration and allowing indulgence in foods (steak, apples, and corn on the cob), dentures also have their place depending on a person’s situation.

The only way to be sure which situation is best for your missing teeth is to contact a DDS dentist like Dr. Steven Booth for a free consultation on your exact situation.

Posted in: Cosmetic Dentistry

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Gingivitis Symptoms and Treatments

gingivitis There are many aspects to maintaining good oral hygiene, and the appearance of your gums may be a strong indicator of your oral health. While pain may be an obvious signal of the presence of a problem, many issues may develop long before you ever experience painful symptoms.

Gingivitis Symptoms

Gingivitis is characterized by soft, swollen, receding, and sensitive gums. Addressing these symptoms is crucial to keeping your gums and the rest of your mouth as healthy as possible. Seeing a dentist at the first signs of these symptoms is your best chance at avoiding permanent damage.

The good news is that early intervention can reverse the tenderness, sensitivity, bad breath, and bleeding that often occurs with gingivitis.

What Causes Gingivitis

Gingivitis is usually caused by a buildup of tartar and bacterial plaque accumulated around the teeth. The bacterial buildup provokes an immune response, and if left untreated can lead to a loss of gum tissue, additional complications, and possibly tooth loss.

Some colonizing bacteria may actually protect your mouth from a variety of noxious microorganisms, but plaque can lead to gingivitis. Hormonal changes may cause gingivitis, and this is why puberty, pregnancy, and menstrual issues may be associated with gum sensitivity and inflammation.

Other Possible Reasons for Gingivitis

Oral health can be affected by smoking, family history, taking certain medications, and diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and HIV. All of these factors can increase your likelihood of experiencing gingivitis.

Gingivitis Treatments

Gingivitis symptoms can be reversed with prompt and comprehensive treatment, and professional dental intervention can help you avoid further damage to your teeth and gums. The best treatment may begin with a thorough cleaning to get rid of the accumulated plaque and tartar, and this may be followed by additional dental work as needed.

Regular cleanings and checkups may help detect gingivitis symptoms quickly, and learning proper brushing and flossing techniques may keep your symptoms from developing again. Good home care such as daily flossing, brushing your teeth twice a day, and cleaning your mouth with an antiseptic rinse can protect you from a future occurrence of gingivitis.

Image credit for gingivitis picture via Wikipedia.

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Austin Dental Emergency

The most important factor in the outcome of a dental emergency is seeing a dentist in time. Quick responses will produce the best results, so it’s important not to delay your visit. A dental emergency can range from a chipped tooth to periodontal disease. Fortunately, many dental emergencies, such as cracked or chipped teeth, can be solved easily and with natural-looking results.

When you’re in pain or need a problem addressed quickly, turn to Silver Screen Dental of Austin, Texas. We’ve been in Austin for nearly a decade, and we’ve handled just about every kind of dental emergency. Our team is sensitive to your needs and will ensure that you receive only the best care–as soon as possible. As a member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association, Dr. Steven Booth is highly qualified to handle your emergency care needs.

Choose a Dentist Experienced in Austin Dental Emergency Procedures

We also perform urgent root canals. If you’re experiencing pain when biting down, facial swelling, extreme temperature sensitivity, or discomfort when chewing, you may require a root canal to address the problem. With a root canal, the infected pulp of a tooth is removed, leaving the surrounding bone free from harmful bacteria and potential nerve issues. Within a few visits, the pain should be gone and the area protected from further infection.

If dental procedures make your nervous, take advantage of our sedation options. With sedation dentistry, you won’t feel a thing, so you can relax and focus on your recovery. If you’re in the Austin area with a dental emergency, we can work with you to come up with the best solution for your long-term dental care needs. Because even a minute in pain is too much, Silver Screen Dental is here to help. Call today to schedule a consultation, or book online at your convenience.

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Dental Health Starts with Quality Preventative Care

While brushing and flossing daily are essential components of dental health, professional care is still necessary for a lovely, lasting smile. The American Dental Association advises two full, professional cleanings per year to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Make an appointment today.

Preventative care starts at Austin’s own Silver Screen Dental. We offer all the vital preventative care measures needed to keep your teeth healthy for decades to come. Many patients opt for deep tooth cleanings as a way to keep harmful plaque and bacteria from taking hold.

Austin Dental Health Experts Can Protect Your Smile

To go a step further, consider investing in tooth sealant. By applying sealant to at-risk teeth, such as back molars, you can reduce the risk of cavity and tooth decay. While the sealant itself is simply a thin film, it packs a powerful punch. Not only can professionally applied sealants offer 100 percent protection from plaque build-up for the life of the treatment, they can even stop cavities in their tracks. For those who tend to be prone to cavities, sealants are an excellent option.

Naturally, cleanings are only a small portion of the dental health services provided at Silver Screen Dental in Austin. We handle all routine care needs as well, including fillings, crowns, bridges, and dental restoration. Many new patients are surprised to learn that old, dark fillings can be replaced with new, nearly invisible ones. It’s never too late (or too soon) to have a dazzling smile! Call today to schedule a consultation, or book online at your convenience.

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Crown Repairs in Austin

Dental crowns are often used to build a damaged tooth back up to its original size. This serves many purposes, including regaining your natural chewing ability once again. Crowns also help prevent further decay or damage from spreading to the rest of the tooth. However, crowns can become damaged over time when exposed to lots of wear and tear. Those searching for crown repairs in Austin can consider Silver Screen Dental, the premier cosmetic dental office.

Damaged crowns can be replaced with newer, more modern dental materials. You’ll find that our crown repairs won’t just replace the crown and restore the tooth’s appearance: we’ll improve it. You’ll hardly be able to tell that your tooth has a crown, as we use ceramic material that is virtually indistinguishable from your natural tooth.

Comfortable and Convenient Crown Repairs in Austin

Having any kind of dental work done can be nerve-wracking. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry. We can gently and safely put you in a state of conscious sedation. This can have two benefits. First, you’ll feel more comfortable throughout the entire process, and second, we’ll be able to complete the work quickly and accurately if you’re relaxed.

Crown repairs are a serious issue and we always treat them as such. However, that doesn’t mean that your dental experience can’t be pleasant and friendly. At Silver Screen Dental in Austin, we take pride not just in our technical expertise, but our friendly approach to dentistry. Call today to schedule a consultation, or book online at your convenience.

Posted in: Cosmetic Dentistry

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