Grand Prairie Dentist Discusses Teeth Whitening and Stain Types

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Do you cringe when you look in the mirror and see yellow teeth? Are you tired of hiding your dull smile? If so, teeth whitening treatment may be right for you. But did you know that the effectiveness of teeth whitening depends upon the type of stains that afflict teeth? Read below as your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, differentiates between two types of stains and tells you which cosmetic procedures work best for each stain type.

Intrinsic Stains vs. Extrinsic Stains

Teeth stains are often differentiated into two categories based on their location in the tooth. These two categories are intrinsic stains and extrinsic stains. Intrinsic stains exist inside the tooth and are often caused by overexposure to fluoride, some medications, and trauma to teeth. Extrinsic stains occur on the outside of teeth, and they are typically caused by overexposure to dark pigments like those found in coffee, tea, red wine, and soda.

Cosmetic Treatments vs. Stain Types

Of these two types of stains, teeth whitening treatment is effective against only one: extrinsic stains. The reason that teeth whitening treatment is ineffective against intrinsic stains is that the whitening agents used in the whitening treatment are unable to reach the stains deep within the teeth. Therefore, when it comes to intrinsic stains, other cosmetic treatments are necessary. Two treatments that are effective against intrinsic stains are veneers and dental bonding. Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that attach to the front surface of teeth. Dental bonding, on the other hand, uses a tooth-colored composite resin (the same material used in white fillings) to create a new and unstained surface on teeth. Both of these treatments cover or mask the stains rather than remove them, but the end result is a stain-free, brilliant smile that patients can wear with pride.

Teeth Whitening Treatment from Your Grand Prairie Cosmetic Dentist

Do you want a smile that makes you stand out? Contact your Grand Prairie cosmetic dentist, Dr. Smith, today by calling 972-262-5111. Our 75052 dental office welcomes patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.

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Grand Prairie Dentist Challenges You to a Quiz about Dental Crowns

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Do you know when a dental crown becomes necessary? Did you know that there are several types of dental crowns? Take the following quiz from your Grand Prairie dentist and test your knowledge of dental crowns.

Test Your Knowledge

1.      True or False: PFM (Porcelain-fused-to-metal) crowns offer the best cosmetic results of any type of dental crown.

2.      True or False: Bruxism (teeth grinding) can damage teeth so that they need dental crowns.

3.      True or False: PFM crowns offer superior strength to all-porcelain crowns.

Check Your Answers

1.      False. All-porcelain crowns offer superior cosmetic results to PFM crowns because PFM crowns are made up of an under layer of metal to which is attached an outer layer of porcelain. While the outer layer of porcelain does add a nice cosmetic touch, the under layer of metal does not allow PFM crowns to achieve the same level of translucence exhibited by teeth and all-porcelain crowns. The under layer may also become exposed over time, resulting in a black line at the base of the crown.

2.      True. Bruxism subjects teeth to powerful forces and can wear them down over time. Initially, teeth may lose only enamel. However, enamel loss can weaken teeth, making structural damage more likely. Should teeth suffer structural damage in the form of a crack, chip, or break, a dental crown is necessary to repair the damage and restore the function of the tooth or teeth.

3.      True. The metal under layer of a PFM crown lends it superior strength. Because PFM crowns are stronger than all-metal crowns, they are often used in the back of the mouth, where the forces of biting and chewing are greater and teeth are less visible.

Dental Crowns from Your Grand Prairie Dentist

Do you have a damaged tooth that needs to be repaired? Contact your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Smith, today at 972-262-5111 to schedule an appointment or a consultation. Located in the 75052 area, we welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.

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Grand Prairie Dentist Explains When Porcelain Veneers Are Preferable to Teeth Whitening

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Do you have dull or yellow teeth that rob your smile of its luster? If so, you have probably looked into teeth whitening treatment. But did you know that teeth whitening treatment, while effective in most cases, is not recommended or able to remove one type of stain? To learn more about this stain type and why porcelain veneers offer a more effective solution for it, read the explanation below from your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith.

A Closer Look at Stain Types and Whitening

Teeth stains can be categorized into two general stain types: intrinsic stains and extrinsic stains. The characteristic that separates these two stain types is location. Intrinsic stains exist within teeth, while extrinsic stains occur on the outer surface of teeth, and location is ultimate reason why teeth whitening treatment is ineffective against intrinsic stains. Because intrinsic stains exist within teeth, the whitening agents used in professional teeth whitening are unable to reach the stains and are, therefore, unsuccessful in removing them. Extrinsic stains, on the other hand, are easily reachable by the whitening agents and can be removed.

Porcelain Veneers and Intrinsic Stains

Because teeth whitening is unable to remove intrinsic stains, cosmetic dentistry must turn elsewhere if it is to improve the appearance of teeth that have sustained these stains, and it has. Porcelain veneers are generally recommended as a solution to intrinsic stains, and they are very effective because the veneers do not seek to remove the stains, but to mask them instead. Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that adhere to the front surface of teeth to cover cosmetic blights. They are also strong and stain-resistant, meaning that they create a durable, new smile that patients can show off for years to come.

Porcelain Veneers from Your Grand Prairie Dentist

Do you want to transform your smile? Contact our 75052 dental office to schedule an appointment or a consultation with your GrandPrairie cosmetic dentist, Dr. Smith, today by calling 972-262-5111. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.

filed under: Dentist, General Dentistry, Grand Prairie Dentist

Grand Prairie Dentist: Four Signs You May Be Grinding Your Teeth

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Do you grind your teeth? Are you sure? Oftentimes, teeth grinding, or bruxism, occurs during the night, when people are completely unaware of the damage they are inflicting on their teeth. There are, however, a few symptoms that may reveal whether or not bruxism is occurring. To learn more about these symptoms, consult the following list provided by your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith.

Four Symptoms of Bruxism

1.      Sensitive teeth. Sensitivities in teeth can be a very big clue that bruxism is occurring during the night, especially if teeth are sensitive in the morning and if the sensitivities are recurring. The strain that bruxism places on teeth is significant and often creates soreness or tenderness.

2.      A sore jaw. Teeth are not the only things subjected to strain. The jaw also feels the forces of bruxism, and oftentimes, a sore jaw will develop if bruxism becomes a habit. This soreness is sometimes accompanied by a popping or clicking noise when the mouth is opened and closed.

3.      Visible wear on teeth. Over time, bruxism can strip teeth of their enamel and actually wear down teeth. When this situation occurs, the wear will become visible, and a dental professional will be able to see the damage.

4.      Frequent headaches. Over a prolonged period of time, the forces of bruxism can cause what is known as a TMJ disorder. The TMJs are the jaw joints responsible for opening and closing the mouth, and when they develop a disorder, the symptoms can be seriously debilitating. Some of these symptoms include frequent headaches, migraines, facial pain, earaches, jaw pain, and a locked jaw. Thus, if you notice that you are suffering from frequent headaches, the culprit could be bruxism.

Schedule a Dental Visit with Your Grand Prairie Dentist

If you grind your teeth, it is important that you receive treatment for your bruxism. Contact our 75052 dental office to schedule an appointment or a consultation with your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Smith, today by calling 972-262-5111. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.

filed under: Dentist, General Dentistry, Grand Prairie Dentist

Grand Prairie Dentist: Try Our Zoom! Whitening Quiz

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Over time, our teeth often become discolored due to embarrassing teeth stains. In order to return our smiles to optimal beauty, your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, offers professional teeth whitening. Zoom! Whitening is a breakthrough in-office procedure that can brighten your smile by several shades. In today’s blog, Dr. Smith uses a fun and informative quiz to explain how Zoom! Whitening can boost the appearance of your smile.

Zoom! Whitening Quiz

1. True or False: The foods and drinks we consume can stain our teeth.
2. True or False: Your Grand Prairie cosmetic dentist offers teeth whitening.
3. True or False: Zoom! Whitening brightens smiles in under an hour.
4. True or False: There are steps you can take to help your smile stay bright.

Answer Key

1. True. Most teeth stains are extrinsic, meaning they occur on the surface of our teeth. Soda, coffee, tea, and red wine all contain dark pigments that discolor our teeth. Smoking also leaves unsightly yellow stains on our smiles, as well.
2. True. Dr. Smith will examine your smile and diagnose the cause and severity of your dental discoloration. Then, he will recommend the most appropriate teeth whitening solution.
3. True. Zoom! Whitening can erase stains and whiten your smile in less than an hour. First, Dr. Smith applies a bleaching gel to your teeth. Next, he uses a special light to activate the gel. Patients may obtain a gorgeous smile up to eight shades brighter.
4. True. After your procedure, try cutting down on drinks that stain your teeth, such as coffee or tea. Remember to attend routine cleanings, as well. Finally, always maintain good dental habits, such as brushing and flossing your teeth. This will help prevent the reappearance of tooth stains.

Schedule a Visit with Your Grand Prairie Cosmetic Dentist

Do you want a brighter smile free of embarrassing teeth stains? Then talk to your Grand Prairie cosmetic dentist today to see if our state-of-the-art Zoom! Whitening technique can improve the appearance of your smile. To schedule an appointment, contact our 75052 dental office today by calling 972-262-5111. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.

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Grand Prairie Dentist Provides Professional Teeth Whitening

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Do you have a smile marred by dental discoloration? Embarrassing teeth stains can cause our smiles to lose their luster. Thankfully, at Pecan Tree Dental we offer an array of teeth whitening solutions to brighten your smile. In today’s blog, your GrandPrairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, explains how our whitening systems can erase stains and brighten your teeth.

What Causes Teeth Stains?

Did you know there are two types of teeth stains? Extrinsic teeth stains form on the surface of our teeth and are caused by the drinks and foods we consume, such as soda, coffee, red wine, and tea. Smoking also leads to extrinsic discoloration. Intrinsic stains occur when the tooth structure beneath the enamel becomes discolored, usually through trauma or the use of certain antibiotics, such as tetracycline.

Teeth Whitening

At Pecan Tree Dental, we offer two forms of teeth whitening. Zoom! whitening is performed in-office and brightens smiles by up to eight shades in under an hour. This form of teeth whitening works great for removing extrinsic stains. We also offer a convenient at-home whitening solution. Your Grand Prairie cosmetic dentist will create a custom-made whitening tray based on an impression of your teeth. Then, he will prescribe a special bleaching formula. Simply wear the gel-filled trays daily for the amount of time recommended. In about two weeks you can notice dramatic results. At-home whitening works great for extrinsic stains and some minor intrinsic stains.

Masking Permanent Stains

In order to brighten a smile with intrinsic discoloration, we offer the latest in cosmeticdentistry. Porcelain veneers and dental bonding both offer a solution for masking the appearance of intrinsic stains. Talk to Dr. Smith for more information.

Schedule a Visit with Your Grand Prairie Cosmetic Dentist

Do you want a brighter smile free of unsightly discoloration? Then talk to your Grand Prairie cosmetic dentist today to see if our teeth whitening procedures can improve the appearance of your smile. To schedule an appointment, contact our 75052 dental office today by calling 972-262-5111. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.

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Grand Prairie Dentist Answers Your Questions About Dental Fillings

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Did you know that tooth enamel is the hardest substance n the human body? Despite this, over time our teeth may become damaged due to injury or advanced tooth decay. When this occurs, your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, may recommend a dental filling. A filling helps return your tooth to full function and appearance. In today’s blog, Dr. Smith answers a few commonly asked questions about dental fillings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings

Question: How do I know if I need a dental filling?
Answer: There are multiple signs to watch for if you think you may be suffering from tooth decay and require a filling. Patients often report tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, frequent toothaches, swelling around the tooth, or pain when biting down or chewing. If you experience these symptoms, make an appointment with your Grand Prairie cosmetic dentist right away.
Question: What are amalgam fillings?
Answer: These are metal fillings composed of silver and a variety of other metals. Amalgam fillings are cheaper and durable than other alternatives, but contain trace amounts of mercury. Children and pregnant women should avoid receiving amalgam fillings.
Question: Will my fillings look natural?
Answer: Yes. In addition to amalgam fillings, we also offer composite fillings. These fillings contain no metal and blend seamlessly with your smile. As a result, composite fillings look completely natural.
Question: What can I do to prevent tooth decay?
Answer: In order to protect your smile, you should always attend a cleaning and a checkup once every six months. You should also practice good oral hygiene, brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once. These simple steps help cleanse the mouth of the harmful bacteria and stray food particles that may lead to tooth decay.

Schedule a Visit with Your Grand Prairie Cosmetic Dentist

Do suffer from chronic toothaches or tooth sensitivity? If so, you may be experiencing the symptoms of tooth decay. Talk to your Grand Prairie cosmetic dentist today to see if our dental fillings are the best method of treating your cavity. To schedule an appointment, contact our 75052 dental office today by calling 972-262-5111. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.

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Grand Prairie Dentist: Try Our Cosmetic Dental Quiz

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Do you want a brighter smile? Do you feel embarrassed of your smile due to dental imperfections such as misalignment or unsightly gaps between teeth? At Pecan Tree Dental, we offer patients the latest in cosmetic dentistry. In today’s blog, your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, uses a fun and informative quiz to explain how our cosmetic procedures rejuvenate smiles.


Cosmetic Dentistry Quiz

1. True or False: Dr. Smith brightens smiles in under an hour.
2. True or False: Porcelain veneers address multiple dental imperfections.
3. True or False: Dr. Smith offers teeth whiteners you can use from home.
4. True or False: Lumineers enhance smiles without requiring the removal of tooth enamel.
5. True or False: Dental bonding restores damaged teeth.

Cosmetic Dentistry Quiz Answer Key

1. True. With Zoom! Whitening, your Grand Prairie cosmetic dentist can whiten smiles with a special bleaching solution and powerful light in less than one hour.
2. True. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain placed on a patient’s front teeth. Durable and stain resistant, porcelain veneers allow Dr. Smith to mask permanent stains, correct the appearance of misalignment, reshape damaged or malformed teeth, and close gaps between teeth.
3. True. Dr. Smith will use an impression of your smile to create a custom-made whitening tray. He will then prescribe a bleaching agent. Simply wear the gel-filled trays daily for the amount of time recommended by Dr. Smith and in as little time as two weeks, you can enjoy a gorgeous, stain-free smile.
4. True. Porcelain veneers require the removal of small layers of tooth enamel to make room for the veneers. Lumineers are ultra-thin and can be placed without removing enamel.
5. True. Dr. Smith applies several thin layers of the composite material, reshaping and sculpting the tooth as the boding agent cures. Dental bonding allows Dr. Smith to repair cracked or chipped teeth.

Schedule a Visit with Your Grand Prairie Cosmetic Dentist

Interested in improving the appearance and health of your smile with our innovative cosmetic dental procedures? Then talk to your Grand Prairie cosmetic dentist today. To schedule an appointment, contact our 75052 dental office today by calling 972-262-5111. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.

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Grand Prairie Dentist Replaces Missing Teeth with State-of-the-Art Dental Implants

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When you lose a tooth, you may begin to feel self-conscious about your appearance. Often, people with missing teeth go to great lengths to hide their smile. Unfortunately, missing teeth affect more than just your appearance. In fact, losing just a single tooth may threaten the stability of your smile. At Pecan Tree Dental, we understand the importance of a whole and beautiful smile and offer the perfect solution: dental implants. In today’s blog, your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, explains how dental implants protect and preserve your smile.

Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
What happens when you lose a permanent tooth? When an adult loses a tooth, the body responds by suspending the flow of vital nutrients to the surrounding jawbone. Deprived of essential doses of calcium and phosphorus, the bone starts to degrade. Loss of bone density increases the risk of further tooth loss and may alter your facial structure. Soon, patients can develop sunken cheeks, jowls, or a ptotic chin. In addition, the healthy teeth adjacent to the missing tooth may begin to drift towards the empty socket, causing unsightly misalignment.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are composed of biocompatible posts that your Grand Prairie dentist inserts into the jaw. The bone tissue bonds with the posts, anchoring them into place. An abutment is added to the top of the posts. The abutment attaches the custom-made dental crown to the implant post, returning your tooth to full function and appearance. Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth or even secure a full set of dentures.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a host of benefits. First, the body accepts implants as natural teeth. As a result, the body resumes the flow of nutrients to the jawbone, preventing loss of bone density and preserving facial structure. Implants are also long lasting, on average a dental implant can provide 25 years of quality restoration. Furthermore, implants boast a staggering 95% success rate.
Schedule a Visit with Your Grand Prairie Dentist
Do you have one or more missing teeth? Interested in restoring your smile with innovative dental implants? Then talk to your Grand Prairie dentist today. To schedule an appointment, contact our 75052 dental office today by calling 972-262-5111. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.

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Grand Prairie Dentist Answers FAQs About Children’s Dentistry

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Did you that over 20% of children between the ages of 5 and 11 suffer from untreated cavities? Few things brighten your day like your little ones’ smile. In order to keep their smile bright and beautiful, your children require routine dental care. At Pecan Tree Dental, we offer the latest in children’s dentistry to help our youngest patients maintain healthy smiles. In today’s blog, your GrandPrairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, answers a few common questions parents often ask regarding our children’s dentistry procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Children’s Dental Care

Question: Does Pecan Tree Dental offer a child-friendly atmosphere?
Answer: Yes. Dr. Smith and our staff strive to provide an environment in which your child feels relaxed and comfortable. In addition, we keep a box filled with fun toys and trinkets as a reward for our young patients following their appointment.
Question: When should my child see Dr. Smith?
Answer: The first dental visit should follow the eruption of the first baby tooth. This visit mainly lets Dr. Smith evaluate the state of your little one’s dental health. Starting around age three, your child should see your Grand Prairie children’s dentist once every six months. Routine visits not only allow Dr. Smith to watch for signs of burgeoning dental disorders, but also helps children become accustomed to visits the dentist.
Question: What are fluoride treatments?
Answer: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, aiding in the prevention of cavities. For children with teeth especially vulnerable to decay, Dr. Smith may recommend a fluoride treatment.
Question: Can dental sealants help prevent tooth decay?
Answer: Yes. Dental sealants are thin layers of plastic material applied to the molars in the back of your child’s mouth. These teeth are often difficult for them to reach when brushing. Sealants keep food from adhering to the tooth’s surface or becoming stuck between teeth. Dental sealants help your child avoid tooth decay and the painful complications associated with it, such as toothaches.

Schedule a Visit with Your Grand Prairie Children’s Dentist

Did we answer all of your questions? If you have any further questions or concerns about our children’s dental procedures or would like to schedule a checkup, talk to your Grand Prairie children’s dentist today. To schedule an appointment, contact our 75052 dental office today by calling 972-262-5111. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.

filed under: Children's Dentist