Our Apex NC Cosmetic Dentist Shares 6 Benefits of Dental Veneers

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If you want to improve the way that your smile looks, then you should talk to our cosmetic dentist about getting veneers. A veneer is a thin, small shell that is placed over your tooth. There are several benefits that you can reap from getting veneers.

6. Look Natural

One of the reasons that our general dentist in Apex may recommend veneers is because they look natural. The color and contour of the veneers will match your natural teeth. That is why no one will be able to tell that you are wearing veneers.

5. Simple Process

The dental veneers process is simple. Our dentist will have to drill away a small amount of enamel. After that, they will take an impression and send it to the lab. They will then place your veneers.

4. Solve Several Cosmetic Issues

There are many issues that can be corrected with dental veneers. This includes things such as stained teeth, misshapen teeth and gaps. They can also correct slightly crooked teeth.

3. Long Lasting Solution

Another reason that our general dentist in Apex may recommend veneers is because they last a long time. If you take the proper care of them, then they can potentially last for 10 years or longer. However, there are a few things that you can do in order to make them last longer.

You will have to make sure that you brush and floss on a regular basis. You will also need to avoid biting on hard foods because that can damage your veneers.

2. Easy to Maintain

Our cosmetic dentist can tell you how to take care of your veneers. However, you do not have to do anything special to care for them. In addition to caring or them at home, you will need to see a dentist on a regular basis.

1. Less Invasive

If you get a crown, then a dentist will have to remove a large portion of the tooth. Our cosmetic dentist will only remove a small part of your enamel to place the veneers. It is a minimally invasive procedure.

Request an appointment with our local cosmetic dentist today and get your confident smile back!

Enjoy a White Christmas with Our Teeth Whitening Solutions!

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Teeth Whitening Brings Smiles to the Holidays

This holiday season, treat yourself to something that will give you fresh confidence for the new year—tooth whitening services! Hansen Dentistry’s in-office whitening services work faster and last longer than over-the-counter options. If professional tooth whitening just isn’t in your budget, here are some other ways to keep your smile merry and bright this season.

Cut back on teeth-staining foods

Cutting back on stain-inducing foods like wine, coffee, cherries, and tomatoes will help keep your smile whiter, longer. Curry, balsamic vinegar, soda, and sports drinks are also common culprits of teeth staining, as their acidity can erode enamel and cause discoloration. If you can’t imagine cutting out coffee and wine forever, you might try to limit them to weekends-only or, if you don’t mind public ridicule, drink them through the straw.

Use at-home bleaching trays

Although professional whitening provides the best results, it can be pretty expensive. One less-effective, but more affordable option are at-home bleaching trays. Our Apex NC dentist can create custom-fitted bleaching trays which will gradually whiten your teeth over the course of 10 days. The bleach solution we use is weaker than in-office whitening gel, but is still stronger than over-the-counter whitening kits.

What about whitening strips?

Many popular toothpaste brands offer tooth whitening strips, which usually cost around $20 a box. This may seem like a great deal, but remember that when it comes to whitening, the cheapest solution is also usually the least effective. Whitening strips generally only make a noticeable difference in individuals who already have very light teeth. Professional whitening treatments use higher levels of peroxide than over-the-counter products, meaning results will be more dramatic and long-lasting.

Schedule Professional Tooth Whitening in Apex

Since our Apex dentists are able to monitor treatment in-office and adjust it to your needs, we are able to administer much stronger bleaching ages than those that patients can take home. That’s why professional tooth whitening is your best bet for a radiant smile that lasts for up to three years! 

If you’d like to request a tooth whitening appointment in our Apex dentist office, click here to fill out our easy contact form. From all of us at Hansen Dentistry, have a merry Christmas and a happy new year!

Book an Appointment with a Trusted Local General Dentist for These 5 Reasons

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Caring for Your Oral Health: A Local Dentist Who Understands Your Needs

When it comes to your oral health, finding a dentist who truly understands your needs and concerns is essential. Booking an appointment with a trusted local general dentist ensures that you receive personalized care tailored to your specific requirements. Local dentists often prioritize building strong relationships with their patients, allowing them to develop a deep understanding of your oral health history, concerns, and goals.

The Importance of Continuity in Dental Care: Why Choosing a Trusted Local Dentist Matters

Continuity in dental care is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. By choosing a trusted local dentist, you establish a long-term partnership centered on your wellbeing. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for detecting and preventing oral issues before they escalate. A local dentist who you trust can provide consistent care, making it easier to monitor your oral health and address any concerns promptly.

The Key to Lifelong Dental Wellness: Building a Lasting Partnership with a Local Dentist

Building a lasting partnership with a local dentist is one of the keys to achieving lifelong dental wellness. Over time, your local dentist becomes familiar with your dental history, making it easier to identify changes in your oral health and determine the most effective treatment plans. This long-term relationship also enhances communication and trust between you and your dentist, ensuring that you receive the best possible care.

Access to Comprehensive Dental Services: The Expertise of a Local General Dentist

Booking an appointment with a trusted local general dentist grants you access to comprehensive dental services. Whether you require routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, or cosmetic procedures, your local dentist can provide a wide range of treatments to meet your needs. Additionally, local dentists often stay updated with the latest advancements and techniques in dentistry, guaranteeing that you benefit from the most modern and effective treatments available.

Convenience and Community Support: Booking with a Local Dentist

Choosing a local general dentist offers the convenience of easy access to dental care. With a trusted local dentist, you won’t have to travel long distances for appointments, saving you time and effort. Additionally, by supporting local dental practices, you contribute to your community’s growth and development. Local dentists often participate in community events and initiatives, demonstrating their commitment to the welfare of their patients and the community as a whole.

In conclusion, booking an appointment with a trusted local general dentist brings numerous benefits. From personalized care to continuity in dental care and building a lasting partnership, a local dentist plays a crucial role in ensuring your oral health and overall wellbeing. Additionally, accessing comprehensive dental services and contributing to your community’s support are added advantages of choosing a local dentist. Prioritize your oral health today by selecting a trusted local general dentist who will provide exceptional care tailored to your unique needs.

6 Foods to Avoid to Save Your Teeth and Why?

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Our local dentist in Apex, NC will recommend that you follow a healthy diet. Not only will this keep you healthy, but it will also keep your teeth and gums healthy. There are several foods that you will need to limit or avoid.

1. Candy

It shouldn’t be a surprise that candy is bad for your teeth. The sugar from the candy clings to your teeth and mixes with the bacteria to create a cavity-causing acid. That is why a Apex, NC general dentist will recommend that you limit your intake of sugar.

2. Acidic Fruits And Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are healthy, but they may be bad for your teeth. Acidic fruits and vegetables, such as lemons, tomatoes and grapefruits, can damage your enamel. You do not have to completely give up fruits and vegetables. However, it is best for you to eat them along with a meal.

3. Starches

Potato chips and bread are examples of starchy foods. They are bad for your oral health as well as your overall health. Starches are broken down into sugar.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol can dry out your mouth. Saliva is needed to keep your mouth clean. If your mouth does not produce enough saliva, then you will be more likely to develop cavities and gum disease.

5. Hard Foods

I knew that I needed to find a dentist near me when I found out how bad hard foods were for your teeth. Hard foods require that you put in more effort to chew. They can cause your teeth to break.

6. Dried Fruits

Our local dentist in Apex, NC will recommend that you eat fresh fruit instead of dried fruit. Dried fruit is much higher in sugar. It can also stick to your teeth.

Request an appointment with our local general dentist today and get your confident smile back!

Lose the Yellow Teeth! Get New Dental Veneers with Our Apex Cosmetic Dentist

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Over time our teeth do get yellow and many of us do not know why this is happening. However one thing we know is, we want to get rid of that yellow color and get the white back! Our Apex NC cosmetic dentist fortunately can help with that as we are a leader for new dental veneers in Apex.

The first thing we need to do is to explore why our teeth get yellow. Below the enamel is a dark color dentin. As the enamel wears thinner over time, this darker dentin is more exposed giving you that off white color. We have all heard that once the enamel is gone it is gone. You can’t get it back. There are no other procedures to hide the darker dentin which has not come through. The other problem is the foods that we eat can contribute to this. The foods that we eat can also stain the enamel, making it a yellow color. For this process the enamel does not even have to wear thin, as the foods stain the actual enamel.

Our cosmetic dentist can give you a whiter smile that you have always wanted. We provide the best dentist for veneers in Apex, which can make your teeth white again. This procedure of veneers can make your teeth white again, even if you have stains on your enamel that cannot be removed. The dental veneers can also work if your enamel is gone and the darker dentin has started to show through. Whichever your situation is veneers can give you a whiter smile.

The process of getting veneers is a simple one and is offered by our Apex NC cosmetic dentist. The veneer is a thin tooth like material that is placed on the outside of your front teeth and works as a shell. These dental veneers will also protect your teeth from further stains. A mold is done, which serves as a foundation for the veneers. The veneers are then made and placed on your teeth. It is a very simple procedure and there is no pain involved.

Getting veneers is a long term solution if your teeth are corroded or stained. A whiter smile can give you the confidence that you did not have before with your current teeth. Veneers provide a long term solution and can give you a whiter smile for years to come.

Understand Why Our Apex NC Cosmetic Dentist LOVES Dental Implants

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Cosmetic dentists prefer to use dental implants for their patients because of the benefits that these appliances can have. A dental implant is a small titanium rod that is put into the jaw bone, acting like a real tooth root. The titanium rod of dental implants actually bond with the jaw bone over the course of about three months. This ensures that the rod is completely secure and can hold a crown, or cap, on top of it once the procedure has been completed and healed.

The reason your dentist in Apex prefers dental implants is because they are a lot less invasive to your teeth than a bridge. A dental bridge uses surrounding teeth to anchor a crown on top of a missing tooth. Because of this, the surrounding teeth have to be filed down to fit the bridge. This is very invasive to teeth that might be in perfectly good condition. When your dentist in Apex uses a dental implant, they are simply adding the crown to the area that is missing the tooth. None of the surrounding teeth will be touched during the procedure and this can ultimately save you a lot of headache and money.

If you are missing a tooth and want to know what your options are for replacing it, be sure to visit cosmetic dentists to see about getting an implant put into your mouth. More and more people are opting for an implant because it is relatively noninvasive and does not destroy the structure of surrounding teeth like a dental bridge might. This is a wonderful option for anyone who is missing a few teeth and who does not want to compromise the rest of their teeth just to have a bridge put in. Be sure to speak with our Apex NC dentist to learn more about this procedure.

Apex Cosmetic Dentist Shares Expectations for Dental Implants Appointment

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Proven Dental Implant Process

Technological advances in treatments and tools used by cosmetic dentists in Apex, NC have improved both the process and the outcome of today’s dental procedures. The focus on minimizing discomfort has derived the tools and devices responsible for reducing the amount of time needed for far superior results. Many of the most complex procedures, such as dental implant surgery, have been reduced to a process so simplified even the recovery time puts past experiences into distant memory.

There is no need for apprehension with modern dental implants. Made from commercially pure titanium or titanium alloys designed to fuse naturally to bone, it all comes down to applying the science of engineering this kind of fit. This is where the ingenuity of improved procedures and materials has completely transformed dental implant surgery.

Modern Dental Implants in Apex NC

Modern dental implants rely on a precision fit for stability and to hasten healing. As with all invasive procedures, the more the body is allowed to maintain homeostasis, the body’s natural ability to maintain its internal stability, the less complications and pain are associated with the outcome. By preparing a precision surgical guide with the aid of X-rays and CT scanning, the osteotomy is performed to create the channel or hole that receives the threaded titanium post and abutment.

Creating this space to receive the post is a process of graduated drilling to perfect the size of the opening and allows the implant to “take” naturally. In addition, therapeutic treatment of water-cooling the tissue during drilling prevents trauma for more natural fusion. This is critical in preserving bone integrity where it is most needed to support dental implants. Depending on each individual case, the crown, bridge or dentures are fitted the same day or soon thereafter.

With this “site preparation” and pre-planning to line-up the existing bite, or occlusion, there is nothing left to chance. Applying this method of gentle tissue management, cosmetic dentists in Apex, NC are able to prescribe mild medication post surgery as the only relief necessary to manage pain and swelling. With this level of expert care, dental implant surgery has become a thankfully uneventful experience.

Seeking a Consultation with Our Cosmetic Dentist in Apex NC?

If you’re wanting to keep a big bright smile, come see Dr. Hansen and the rest of our team at Hansen Dentistry. Our cosmetic dentist in Apex can’t wait to improve your smile and your confidence! To schedule an appointment, click here.

What Forensic Investigators Can Learn From Teeth! | Apex Dentist

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If you watch a lot of crime shows like CSI: Miami, you may already know that teeth are often the only body parts that can survive severe types of destruction, like burning. Because of this, forensic scientists often have only teeth to work with when it comes to identifying a victim of a crime or natural/manmade disaster. In today’s post, our Apex dentist explains some of the things forensics investigators (and anthropologists!) can determine by examining dental fragments.

Age at the Time of Death

Teeth can help indicate how old an unknown victim was when he or she died. This is especially easy to do when the victim is a child or adolescent, since baby teeth erupt on a generally universal schedule. The first baby teeth start to emerge during the first two years of life; the first two permanent incisors and the first permanent molar emerge between 6 and 8 years of age; and the majority of the remaining permanent teeth erupt between the ages of 10 and 12 years of age. Wisdom teeth tend to erupt around 18 years of age.

Using dentition to age adult victims is a bit more challenging. Once the wisdom teeth have erupted, age can only be estimated by only morphological changes within the teeth. These changes include tooth root translucency, which increases with age; dental wear on the teeth; and the ratio of amino acids in the teeth (D-aspartic acids convert to L-aspartic acids with age).

Racial Determination

There are very slight differences in the skull structure of different races, which can help assist forensic investigators in identifying victims. People of Asian or Native American descent often have incisors which are shovel-shaped, with ridges on the rear surface of the tooth. People of Caucasian descent tend to have pointier incisors, and smaller teeth overall, often with significant crowding and impacted third molars. Those of African descent rarely have crowding, and the upper teeth often project outwards due to the angled shape of the maxilla. However, these differences are becoming less prevalent, and therefore less useful in identification, as our species becomes less geographically isolated.

Lifestyle & Diet

Teeth hold many clues about an individual’s health issues, even issues that did not originate in the mouth. Tooth loss and erosion of the tooth enamel can be a sign of an eating disorder, or a chronic condition like osteoporosis. Heart disease, skin conditions, blood conditions, and kidney disease can all be identified by examining the teeth. The wear on teeth can also show evidence of what the individual ate and chewed, a detail that is more useful to historic and prehistoric anthropologists.

Individual Dental Characteristics

Forensic dentists can often match victims with specific dental characteristics, like cavity fillings, crown or implant restorations, and orthodontic treatments. If the teeth are damaged by fire, the enamel is often burned off, but post-mortem root canals can still provide clues.

Providing Understanding and Closure

In mass casualty disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, or plane crashes, forensic dentists are enlisted to view the most badly damaged or decomposed remains. Dentists are often be the only ones able to identify the dead, giving them back their names and allowing their families much-needed closure. That’s why, even though it’s unfortunate that these types of situations occur, we should be very grateful for this incredible specialization of dentistry.

Hansen Dentistry is a dentist office in Apex, NC, serving residents of Apex, Cary, and Morrisville. To schedule an appointment with our office, please click here.

Our Apex Dentist Shares Tips on Preparing for Oral Surgery

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At some point, most people will need to undergo standard oral surgery, like wisdom teeth removal. The more you know and prepare for the oral surgery, the less anxiety you will experience, and the better you will be able to recover. Below are some tips to follow when preparing for oral surgery in Apex NC.

Talk to Your Dentist

Your dentist will usually be happy to answer any questions you might have about the upcoming procedure. Common questions you might want to ask include:

  • How many teeth will you remove?
  • Will you use general or local anesthesia?
  • How long will the oral surgery take?
  • How long will my recovery take?

It also never hurts to research the procedure in advance. Researching will help you identify more questions you’d like to ask.

Make Arrangements for the Day of Surgery

Most oral surgeries occur when the patient is under general anesthesia. This means that you will not be able to work or drive during the day of the surgery. Make sure you have scheduled the day off (if applicable), arranged for childcare (if applicable), and have arranged for someone to drive you to and from the appointment. Note that you will likely be too uncomfortable to perform normal activities on the day after surgery, too.

Stock Up on Supplies

After your procedure, you will do well to have the house stocked with soft foods, NSAID pain medications, and cold packs. Your dentist will most likely give you gauze and cold packs to take home with you, but it always helps to have backups (and may help calm your nerves before surgery, too.) If your dentist plans to prescribe a pain reliever, ask him or her to let you fill the prescription a day early so you can avoid a trip to the pharmacy when you are still groggy. We also recommend having favorite movies and a comfortable recovery area set up and ready to go!

Avoid Eating Before Surgery  

General anesthesia can make patients experience nausea and vomiting, so your dentist may recommend that you stop eating at midnight on the night before the procedure, and skip breakfast and/or lunch the next morning. Ask your dentist or oral surgeon if you need to avoid eating or drinking before the surgery.

Need Oral Surgery or Wisdom Teeth Removal in Apex?

If you need wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, or another restorative dentistry service in Apex, we can help. Our skilled dentists and dental hygienists will make sure your experience is as relaxing and comfortable as possible. If you would like to schedule an appointment with our Apex dentist office, please contact us here!

Tips for Relieving Dry Mouth, from Our Apex Family Dentist

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Occasionally, a patient will visit our office expecting to have no dental cavities, and is very surprised to learn that they have one. Often, this patient is middle-aged or older, brushes and flosses every day, and has no prior history of tooth decay. When this happens, dentists immediately begin to suspect dry mouth caused by new medications or an undiagnosed condition. Dry mouth causes a decrease in saliva production, which is crucial for regulating oral bacteria and keeping the teeth healthy. Below is more information about the causes of dry mouth, and some treatments that can help.

Common Causes of Dry Mouth

Many medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect. Common dry-mouth inducing medications include muscle relaxants; pain medications; antidepressants; blood pressure and heart rhythm medications; Parkinson’s and Alzheimers disease medications; antihistamines; and decongestants. Recreational drug use, chemotherapy, nerve damage due to injury or surgery, and poor nutrition can also cause dry mouth. Note that this list is far from comprehensive; to learn whether a medication, behavior or condition may be causing your dry mouth, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

Treatments for Dry Mouth

Regardless of the cause of your dry mouth, it’s important to do something about it, as lack of saliva can lead to cavities, gingivitis (gum disease), and halitosis (bad breath). Below are some tips on managing dry mouth from our Apex dentist.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is important for many aspects of your health in general, but for those suffering from dry mouth, it is even more important. Strive to drink at least 8-12 eight ounce glasses of water a day, unless your doctor advises against it. Taking small sips throughout the day will benefit you more than consuming a large amount in one sitting, as it helps to “wash” your teeth all day long.

Chew Sugarless Gum

Chewing sugarless gum can help to stimulate saliva production, providing your salivary glands are still operational, and not permanently damaged by injury or chemotherapy. The best sugar substitute, from a dentist’s perspective, is xylitol, a plant-derived sweetener that actively kills harmful tooth bacteria. Sucking on sugar-free lollipops can also help boost saliva production.

Avoid Drugs, Alcohol & Citrus 

Alcohol, caffeine, and citric acid can all dry out the mouth and inhibit saliva production. If you use an alcoholic mouthwash, you might want to try switching to a saltwater rinse instead. On the subject of indulgences, tobacco and marijuana can also worsen dry mouth, so if you use these, try to decrease or eliminate your use. Note that the nicotine in electronic cigarettes also contributes to dry mouth.

Add Moisture to Your Environment

Moistening dry foods with broth, sauces, milk or melted butter can make it easier to chew and swallow; you could also simply try adding more non-citric fruit and vegetables to your diet. You can also use a humidifier to add moisture to the ambient air around you, especially while you sleep.

Suffering from Dry Mouth? Talk to an Apex Dentist Today  

As oral healthcare specialists, dentists are able to assess potential causes of dry mouth, and prescribe or recommend products that can treat it. Many moisturizing gels, lozenges, and mouthwashes designed specifically to treat dry mouth are available over the counter; if these prove to be ineffective, your dentist can prescribe medications that stimulate the saliva glands. To reach a dentist in Apex NC, please click here.