Author: Midnight Sun Dental

There are several dental treatments that require proper attention after the initial appointment to maintain their purposes, and Invisalign treatments are great examples. Some very basic approaches during and after Invisalign treatments will help ensure that this increasingly popular method of dental aligners is as effective as possible.

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to offer the very best Invisalign treatments available around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla, and nearby areas, including Invisalign aftercare recommendations and more to ensure your treatments perform optimally. Here are some tips for Invisalign treatments themselves and Invisalign aftercare to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

Keeping Teeth Clean Before and During Invisalign Treatment

Both before and during Invisalign treatments, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. It’s also recommended to use an antibacterial mouthwash to help prevent any infections or bacteria from forming in the mouth.

It’s especially important to keep your teeth clean while wearing the Invisalign aligners. Since they are removable, it’s easy for food particles and bacteria to get trapped between the aligners and your teeth. To avoid this, make sure to brush your teeth after every meal before putting the aligners back in.

Importance of Wearing Retainers

One of the simplest ways to maintain your smile using Invisalign aligners: You have to wear them! You’d be surprised how often people forget that simple step. Just like with traditional braces, it’s important to wear your aligners for the recommended amount of time each day in order for them to effectively straighten your teeth.

But the treatment doesn’t end when you finish wearing the aligners. In order to maintain your newly aligned smile, it’s essential to wear a retainer after completing Invisalign treatment. Retainers are custom-made devices that help prevent your teeth from shifting back into their original positions.

There are different types of retainers available, and your orthodontist will determine which one is best suited for you based on your individual needs. It’s important to follow the instructions given by your orthodontist regarding wearing the retainer.

Possible Food Restrictions

In some cases, your orthodontist may advise you to avoid certain types of food during Invisalign treatment. This is because some foods can get stuck in the aligners or cause damage to the aligner trays. It’s important to follow these restrictions to ensure that your treatment progresses smoothly and effectively.

Foods that are sometimes restricted during Invisalign treatment include:

• Sticky foods such as chewing gum, caramels, and gummy candies
• Hard foods such as nuts, hard candies, and raw vegetables
• Sugary foods like cookies, cakes, and soda
• Acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits and juices

Proper Invisalign Hygiene

When you wear Invisalign aligners, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene. This means following a proper dental care routine that includes brushing and flossing after every meal or snack. You should also gently clean your aligner trays before putting them back in your mouth.

In addition to cleaning your teeth and aligners regularly, it’s recommended to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings during Invisalign treatment. Your dentist can ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy and make any necessary adjustments to keep your treatment on track.

Maintaining Invisalign Results Long-Term

In addition to what we’ve gone over so far, here are some basic tips on how to maintain your Invisalign results long-term:

• Continue wearing your retainer as directed by your dentist. This will help prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
• Follow good oral hygiene practices, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
• Avoid eating hard or sticky foods that can damage your aligners or cause them to become dislodged.
• If you play sports, be sure to wear a mouthguard to protect both your teeth and aligners.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings, even after completing Invisalign treatment.

Furthermore, be sure to check in with your dentist if you’re having any kind of discomfort or noticing any changes in your alignment. They can provide guidance and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your continued progress.

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to provide the best Invisalign treatment and Invisalign aftercare services available around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla, and nearby areas. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment for these or any other dental needs in the area!

Certain kinds of dental treatments are quite versatile in nature and can be used for multiple issues simultaneously. Dental veneers for smile makeovers are a great example, with the ability to remedy multiple potential smile issues all in the same treatment.

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re proud to offer quality veneers for smile makeovers to patients around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla, and nearby parts of Alaska. Here are some ways dental veneers can correct multiple cosmetic flaws within the same treatment, helping simplify smile makeover plans for many patients.

What Are Dental Veneers?

For those just learning about them for the first time, dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth. They’re bonded into place with a strong adhesive and usually consist of porcelain or composite resin materials. Unlike some cosmetic treatments, veneers don’t actually replace your natural tooth structure – they simply hide imperfections by changing its appearance.

Multiple Issues Dental Veneers Can Remedy in One Treatment

Here are several examples of dental issues that veneers can assist with:

• Tooth gaps: If you have a gap between your teeth that is too small for braces, but still bothers you, veneers can be used to close the gap and create a more uniform smile. They will be custom-made to fit your teeth and can be placed during a single visit.
• Discoloration: Veneers can cover up stains or discoloration on your teeth that may not respond well to traditional whitening methods. This is especially helpful for individuals with deep stains or discoloration from certain medications.
• Chipped or broken teeth: Veneers can help restore the appearance of chipped or broken teeth by covering up the damaged area and creating a smooth, natural-looking surface. This eliminates the need for more invasive procedures like bonding or crowns.
• Misshapen or uneven teeth: If you have naturally misshapen or uneven teeth, veneers can be used to create a more uniform and symmetrical appearance. This can greatly improve the overall aesthetics of your smile.
• Slight misalignment: For minor cases of crooked or crowded teeth, veneers can be a great alternative to braces. They can help create the illusion of straighter teeth by covering up any gaps or overlapping areas.

How Many Visits Are Required?

As some of our readers may be aware, typical veneer treatments require at least two appointments. This is because they need to have oral impressions taken, which then need to be sent to a lab to create the veneer and send it back to your dentist’s office.

However, at Midnight Sun Dental, we’re proud to offer same-day veneers! Our advanced technology allows us to create and place your veneers in just one visit (under an hour, in fact), saving you time and hassle.

How Veneers Simplify Smile Makeover Plans

Veneers can play a key role in a complete smile makeover plan. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, you may be considering cosmetic dental procedures such as teeth whitening, bonding, or crowns. However, these treatments can often take multiple visits and involve invasive procedures.

With veneers, you can achieve a dramatic improvement in the appearance of your smile with just one simple procedure. Veneers are custom-made to fit your individual teeth and desired outcome. They can address a variety of issues such as discoloration, gaps between teeth, and chipped or misshapen teeth.

Additionally, because veneers are made of porcelain material, they are resistant to staining from food and drinks. This means that not only will your smile look great after the procedure, but it will also continue to look bright and white for years to come.

Another benefit of veneers is that they require minimal maintenance. You can care for them just like you would with your natural teeth, by brushing and flossing regularly.

Importance of Veneers From Experienced Dental Professionals

If you are considering getting veneers, it is important to consult with an experienced dental professional. A qualified dentist will be able to properly assess your oral health and determine if veneers are the best option for you. They can also provide guidance on the best type of veneers for your specific needs, such as traditional porcelain or no-prep veneers.

Having a skilled and experienced dentist perform the procedure is crucial for achieving successful and long-lasting results. Improperly placed or poorly made veneers can cause discomfort, sensitivity, and even damage to your natural teeth.

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to provide the best dental veneers for smile makeovers for clients around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla, and nearby areas. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!

If you’re looking to upgrade your smile through dental services, you have a few robust options at your disposal. Veneers, bonding, crowns and more – which are right for you?

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to offer the very best dental veneers, bonding, crowns and related dental product services for patients around Anchorage, Wasilla, Eagle River and nearby areas. Here are some basics on these three products and how they differ, plus which might be ideal for your needs.

Basic Definitions

Firstly, let’s define all three of these products:

Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are placed over the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. They are typically made from porcelain or composite resin and can be used to correct a variety of dental issues such as chipped, stained or misshapen teeth.

Bonding

Dental bonding is a process in which a tooth-colored resin material is applied and hardened with a special light, essentially “bonding” it to the tooth. This can also be used to repair chips or cracks in teeth, as well as cover stains or fill gaps between teeth.

Crowns

Dental crowns, also known as caps, are prosthetic restorations that completely cover the visible portion of a tooth. They are typically made of porcelain or ceramic to match the color and texture of natural teeth, but can also be made from metal or a combination of materials. Crowns are often used to strengthen weak or damaged teeth, as well as improve their appearance.

Cosmetic Vs Structural Purposes

Some of the key differences between veneers, bonding and crowns are found in the way they are applied, the materials used and their overall purpose. While veneers and bonding are primarily used for cosmetic purposes, crowns have both structural and cosmetic benefits.

Veneers only cover the front surface of a tooth, providing a more uniform appearance and concealing imperfections such as stains or chips. Bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to repair minor flaws or gaps in teeth. Both procedures are less invasive than crowns since they require minimal removal of natural tooth structure.

On the other hand, crowns provide stronger support for weak or damaged teeth by covering the entire visible portion of the tooth. They can protect against further damage and help restore proper function for chewing and speaking. In addition, crowns can improve the appearance of severely discolored or misshapen teeth.

Other Key Comparison Areas

There are a few other important areas in which to compare veneers, bonding and crowns:

• Durability: Crowns are definitely the most durable option, as they are custom-made from strong materials such as porcelain or metal. Veneers and bonding may need to be replaced after a few years due to wear or damage.
• Cost: Veneers tend to be the most expensive option, followed by crowns and bonding. However, the longevity of each treatment must also be considered when comparing costs.
• Maintenance: Crowns require minimal maintenance, while veneers and bonding may have specific care instructions to ensure their longevity.
• Appearance: All three options can greatly improve the appearance of a damaged tooth, but veneers and bonding may be more customizable in terms of color and shape.
• Procedure: Crowns typically require multiple appointments and involve removing more of the natural tooth structure. Veneers and bonding can often be completed in one appointment with minimal removal of natural tooth structure.

Making the Right Choice for You

As you compare veneers, bonding and crowns for your own dental needs, it’s important to consult with a dentist who can provide personalized recommendations. Factors such as the extent of damage or discoloration, budget, and personal preferences should be taken into consideration when deciding on the best option for you.

It’s also important to note that while veneers and bonding may offer more aesthetic customization and require less natural tooth structure removal, they may not be suitable for more severe cases of damage or decay. In these situations, crowns may be necessary for both cosmetic and functional purposes.

Importance of Care

No matter whether you receive veneers, bonding, crowns or any other type of dental treatment, proper care is crucial in maintaining their longevity and preserving your overall oral health. All three options require regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine visits to the dentist for cleanings and check-ups.

However, with veneers and bonding, it’s important to avoid habits that can cause damage or discoloration such as biting on hard objects or smoking. With crowns, proper care and maintenance may also include avoiding sticky or chewy foods that could dislodge them.

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re proud to assist clients around Anchorage, Eagle River and Wasilla with all their veneers, bonding, crowns and other dental needs. Contact us today to learn more or get started!

A few different dental products may be ideal for tooth replacements or related needs, and one of the most well-known here is the dental crown. How can you know when to get dental crowns, and when they’re the best choice for your needs?

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to offer an unmatched range of dental services around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas, including dental crowns for any need. Here are some basics on situations where dental crowns are often the ideal option, plus tips on when to get dental crowns and some related recommendations from our dentists.

What Are Dental Crowns?

For those just learning about dental crowns, they’re a type of tooth “cap” that covers the entire visible surface of the tooth. Dental crowns are custom-made to fit your unique teeth and are typically made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal or a combination of materials.

They are designed to mimic the appearance of natural teeth while also providing strength and durability. Some crowns are even made to match the color of your surrounding teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable.

Situations Where Dental Crowns Are Often Most Suitable

Here are a few situations where dental crowns are often the most suitable option:

• Cracked teeth: If you have a cracked tooth, a dental crown can help stabilize and protect the damaged tooth from further harm.
• Worn-down teeth: Over time, our teeth can become worn down due to grinding or other factors. Dental crowns can restore the shape and function of these teeth.
• Large fillings: If you have a large filling, a dental crown can provide additional support and protection to prevent the tooth from breaking.
• Root canal treatment: After undergoing root canal treatment, teeth can become weak and brittle. A dental crown can help strengthen and protect the treated tooth.
• Cosmetic concerns: Dental crowns can also be used for cosmetic purposes, such as covering severely discolored or misshapen teeth.

Durability and Protection Benefits of Dental Crowns

One of the great things about dental crowns is their durability and ability to provide protection for weakened or damaged teeth. As mentioned earlier, dental crowns can help prevent further damage to a tooth that has a large filling or has undergone root canal treatment. This is because the crown acts as a strong outer layer, providing support and stability to the tooth.

In addition, dental crowns are made from strong materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys which are known for their strength and resilience. This makes them able to withstand the daily wear and tear of chewing and speaking without becoming damaged themselves.

Material Selection

When it comes to material selection for dental crowns, there are several options available. Your dentist will recommend the best material for your specific case, taking into consideration factors such as budget, location of the tooth in the mouth, and aesthetic preferences.

• Porcelain or ceramic crowns are often preferred for their natural appearance that blends well with surrounding teeth. They can also be color-matched to your existing teeth for a seamless look.
• Metal alloy crowns, such as gold or silver, may be recommended for their strength and durability. However, they are more noticeable in the mouth and may not be suitable for front teeth.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns offer a combination of strength and aesthetics. The outer layer is made of porcelain while the inner layer is made of metal for added strength.
• All-ceramic crowns are becoming increasingly popular due to their natural appearance and durability. They do not contain any metal and are a good option for those with metal allergies.
• Zirconia crowns, also known as “zirconium” or “Zr”, are made from a strong ceramic material that can withstand biting forces. They are highly biocompatible and can be color-matched to your existing teeth.

Aesthetic Considerations

If you’re considering getting a dental crown, it’s important to consider the aesthetic aspects. Your dentist will work with you to customize the shape, size, and color of your crown to ensure it blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Some patients may also choose to get a full set of ceramic crowns for cosmetic reasons. These are often referred to as “smile makeovers” and can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile.

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to offer the very best dental crown services available around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas, including same-day crowns. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!

If you’re in need of tooth replacement, two of your most notable options that are often compared with one another are dental implants vs bridges. What are the basic differences between these two products, and which is right for you?

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to offer the very best dental services available around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas, including dental implants, bridges and several other quality solutions to meet any patient need. Here are some of the basics on both these products, how they compare to one another in some key areas, and which kinds of patients might be ideal candidates for each.

Basics on Dental Implants Vs Bridges

Here are some basic factors to know when comparing dental implants and bridges:

• Dental Implants: These are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They serve as a sturdy base for replacement teeth, which are custom-made to match your natural teeth in color and shape.
• Bridges: Bridges, on the other hand, are non-surgical options that use neighboring teeth as anchors for one or more missing teeth. The two main types of bridges are traditional fixed bridges and resin-bonded bridges.

How Do They Compare?

When considering dental implants vs bridges, there are several key areas in which they differ:

• Durability: Dental implants have an impressive success rate of up to 98%, making them a highly durable option for replacing missing teeth. Bridges, while also long-lasting, may need to be replaced or adjusted over time due to wear and tear on the supporting teeth.
• Appearance: Both dental implants and bridges can provide natural-looking results, but dental implants have an advantage in that they are individually placed and custom-made to match your existing teeth.
• Bone Health: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone like natural tooth roots, helping to maintain bone density and prevent further loss. Bridges do not have this effect and may contribute to bone loss over time, though this can be mitigated through proper care
• Maintenance: Implants can be cared for just like real teeth with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Bridges require special care to keep the area underneath clean and prevent decay.
• Longevity: With proper maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a long-term investment in your oral health. Bridges typically need to be replaced every 5-15 years depending on their materials and quality of care.
• Cost: While bridges may initially be less expensive than implants, they may end up costing more over time due to replacement costs. In addition, many insurance plans now cover at least a portion of the cost for dental implants.

Who is a Good Candidate for Each?

When it comes to dental implants vs bridges, there are a few factors to consider when deciding which option is best for you. Here are some general guidelines:

• Dental Implants: Dental implants are often recommended for those who have one or more missing teeth and have a healthy jawbone and gums. They are also a good option for those who want a permanent solution that looks and feels like their natural teeth.
• Bridges: Bridges may be a better choice for individuals with multiple missing teeth in the same area, as they can support several replacement teeth at once. They may also be recommended for those with weaker jawbones or gum disease, as they do not require as much bone support as implants do.

Importance of Quality Dental Professionals

Whether you’re receiving a dental implant, a bridge or any other kind of tooth replacement, it’s crucial to seek out a quality dental professional. A skilled and experienced dentist can help ensure the success of your tooth replacement procedure and ensure that your new teeth blend seamlessly with your natural ones.

For instance, an experienced dentist will know how to properly place dental implants in order to avoid nerve damage or infection. They will also make sure that the implant is positioned correctly for optimal function and aesthetics.

In addition, a quality dental professional will use high-quality materials and state-of-the-art technology to create your tooth replacement. This can greatly impact the longevity and durability of your new teeth, saving you time and money in the long run.

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re proud to offer the best dental implant and other tooth replacement services available around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas, plus various other oral care and dental solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our quality services and how we can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile!

Dental implants are often used for important long-term oral health preservation, and there are several ways they offer benefits here. One great example is the way dental implants prevent bone loss and maintain jaw and oral structure – how do dental implants accomplish these important tasks?

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to offer unmatched dental implant services to clients around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas. Here are some basics on dental implants and bone loss, plus how dental implants help limit these risks while maintaining optimal jaw structure.

How the Facial Structure Changes Without Tooth Roots

To fully understand dental implants and bone loss prevention, it’s important to first have a basic grasp of how bone loss can take place to begin with. This process often surrounds the loss of teeth and resulting issues.

Specifically, lost teeth no longer stimulate the jawbone, which can cause it to resorb or shrink. Without this stimulation, the jawbone begins to lose its density and strength over time, resulting in a change in facial structure. In fact, for every missing tooth root, approximately 25% of supporting bone is lost within the first year alone.

How Dental Implants Stimulate the Jawbone

Dental implants play a vital role in avoiding the issue we just described: They act as a stand-in for the missing tooth or teeth, stimulating the jawbone and preventing it from resorbing. This is because dental implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, just like natural teeth.

As a result, they provide the same level of stimulation as a tooth root, keeping the bone healthy and strong. This not only helps maintain facial structure but also prevents other dental problems such as shifting teeth or bite issues.

Moreover, dental implants are made of biocompatible materials that fuse with the surrounding bone tissue through a process called osseointegration. This makes them a permanent solution for missing teeth, unlike dentures or bridges which may need to be replaced periodically.

Other Long-Term Aesthetic and Health Benefits of Dental Implants

In addition to helping prevent bone loss and maintaining jaw structure, dental implants can also improve your overall oral health in the long-term. Since they are placed directly into the jawbone, they provide stability and support for surrounding teeth, reducing the risk of shifting or displacement.

Moreover, dental implants do not require any alteration or damage to adjacent teeth, unlike bridges which may require grinding down healthy teeth to support them. This helps preserve the natural structure of your remaining teeth and maintain a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

In terms of aesthetics, dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. This can greatly improve one’s self-confidence and quality of life.

Stability and Function Benefits of Dental Implants

Furthermore, dental implants provide significant stability and functionality. Unlike dentures, which can slip or shift in the mouth, implants are securely anchored in the jawbone. This allows for a more natural chewing and speaking experience, without fear of embarrassment or discomfort.

Moreover, implant-supported dentures or bridges can greatly improve the ability to bite and chew food properly. With strong and stable support from dental implants, individuals can enjoy a wider variety of foods without restrictions.

Importance of Quality Dental Implant Services

Whether you’re looking to dental implants for bone loss prevention, aesthetics, stability or any combination therein, it’s vital to choose a reputable and experienced dental implant provider. Quality dental implant services can make all the difference in the success and longevity of your implants.

First and foremost, an experienced dental professional will have the necessary knowledge and expertise to properly assess your unique situation and determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. They will take into consideration factors such as bone density, overall oral health, and any pre-existing conditions that may affect the success of the implants.

Additionally, a skilled dentist will use high-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure that your dental implants are placed correctly and securely. Improper placement can lead to complications such as infection or implant failure, which can be both costly and uncomfortable.

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re proud to offer the best dental implant services available around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas. Our dentists have years of experience with dental implant solutions, and we’ll ensure your implants are ideally suited for your needs. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!

There are a few kinds of dental issues where prompt attention is important, and dental crown repair or replacement needs are a good example. What are some signs a dental crown has been damaged and requires attention, and why is early intervention important here?

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to offer the best dental crown services available around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby parts of Alaska, including dental crown repair and replacement services. Here are some signs that indicate an issue with your dental crown, plus some reasons why early dental crown repair or replacement is important for addressing these concerns and maintaining quality oral health.

Signs That Indicate Crown Damage

Here are some of the potential signs that can indicate you have an issue with a dental crown:

• Pain: One of the most common signs of a damaged dental crown is pain. This can range from mild discomfort to severe throbbing, and may be accompanied by sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
• Discomfort while chewing: If you experience pain or discomfort while biting down on food, it could be a sign that your dental crown is no longer fitting properly or has suffered damage.
• Visible damage: Cracks, chips, or fractures in the dental crown are obvious signs of damage and require immediate attention.
• Loose crown: A loose dental crown can indicate that the underlying tooth structure has been compromised or that the cement holding the crown in place has failed.

How Dentists Evaluate Crown Health

If you’re having your crown evaluated by a dentist, they will likely perform the following steps:

1. Visual inspection: The first step is for the dentist to visually inspect the crown for any visible damage or signs of wear.
2. X-rays: Next, the dentist may take x-rays to get a better look at the underlying tooth structure and check for any potential issues such as decay or root canal problems.
3. Bite test: In some cases, dentists may use a bite test to determine if the crown is fitting properly and not causing any discomfort while chewing.

Why Early Dental Crown Repair or Replacement is Important

There are a few reasons why it’s important to address any issues with your dental crown as soon as possible:

1. Prevent further damage: If left untreated, a damaged or loose dental crown can lead to further damage to the underlying tooth structure. This can result in more extensive and expensive dental work down the line.
2. Maintain proper function: A damaged or ill-fitting dental crown may affect your ability to properly chew food, causing discomfort and difficulty eating.
3. Preserve aesthetics: A broken or chipped dental crown can be unsightly and negatively impact your smile’s appearance. Timely repair or replacement of the crown can help maintain a natural-looking smile.
4. Avoid discomfort: A damaged or loose dental crown can cause pain or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. This can greatly impact your daily life and make it difficult to enjoy certain foods or drinks.

Importance of Crown Care

One important way of avoiding these kinds of crown damage issues is by taking proper care of your dental crown. Just like natural teeth, crowns require regular maintenance and care to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Some key steps you can take to maintain your crown include:

• Brushing twice a day: Regular brushing with a soft-bristled brush can help remove plaque and bacteria build-up on the surface of your crown.
• Flossing daily: Flossing can reach areas that brushing may miss, helping to prevent decay around the edges of your crown.
• Avoid hard or sticky foods: Chewing on hard objects such as ice cubes or biting into sticky candies can put unnecessary stress on your crown and increase the risk of damage.
• Attend regular check-ups: Regular visits to your dentist can help catch any potential issues with your crown early on and ensure it is still secure and fitting properly.
• Wear a mouthguard: If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can protect your crown from damage.

As you can see, there are some robust ways to protect your dental crown from damage once it’s in your mouth. And if your crown does become damaged, prompt attention for crown repair or replacement is important to maintain your oral health.

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to help with all your dental crown needs around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas. Contact us today for these or any other dental services!

Knowing the general process that will take place for certain common dental procedures can be quite helpful ahead of time, and the dental crown procedure is a good example. What should you be thinking about before, during and after obtaining a dental crown?

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to offer the best dental crown procedure services available around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas. Our team will be happy to walk you through each stage of the dental crown procedure, ensuring you know what to expect and how you should be preparing and caring for your crown. Let’s go over some basics now!

Pre-Dental Crown Procedure

In most cases, dental crown services will be applied across two simple visits to your dentist’s office. During the first visit, which often comes near the end of a checkup where a tooth issue of some kind has been discovered, your dentist will take impressions of the tooth or teeth needing a crown. They may also create a temporary crown to protect the area while the permanent one is being made – you will wear this temporary crown for a few days, or perhaps a week or two, until your permanent crown arrives.

Leading up to this second procedure, you may want to avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the temporary crown is placed. While it may feel sturdy, it is not designed for long-term use and can easily become dislodged or damaged.

Once your permanent crown is ready, you will return to your dentist’s office for the second visit.

Permanent Dental Crown Procedure

Once you arrive at your dentist’s office for your second visit, the temporary crown will be removed and the area will be cleaned. Your dentist will then carefully place the permanent crown on your tooth, ensuring a proper fit and alignment.

Before permanently cementing the crown in place, your dentist may make some adjustments to ensure that it feels comfortable and natural in your mouth. This could include shaping or polishing the crown to match the surrounding teeth. They may also use numbing agents to make sure you are comfortable during the procedure.

Once everything is in place, your dentist will use a special dental cement to bond the permanent crown to your tooth. This cement is durable and strong, providing a long-lasting hold for your new dental crown.

Aftercare Tips for Crown Longevity

The period after a dental crown procedure is also very important for the longevity of your crown. Here are some aftercare tips to keep in mind:

• Food and drink choices: Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage your crown. Also, try to limit consumption of dark-colored beverages like coffee and red wine, as they can stain the crown over time.
• Proper oral hygiene: Continue to brush and floss regularly, paying special attention to the area around the crown. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching or damaging the crown.
• Wear a night guard: If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a night guard can protect your new dental crown from excessive wear and tear.
• Regular check-ups: It’s important to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings, especially after getting a new dental crown. This will ensure that any issues are caught early and your crown remains in good condition.
• Be mindful of habits: If you have a habit of biting your nails or using your teeth as tools, try to break these habits to protect your new dental crown. These actions can put unnecessary pressure on the crown and cause it to chip or crack.

Importance of Quality Dental Professionals for Crowns

If you or anyone in your family requires a dental crown procedure, it’s important to choose a qualified and experienced professional. The quality of the dental professional plays a crucial role in the success of your crown and overall oral health.

Some key reasons why you should prioritize finding a reputable and skilled dental professional for your crown procedure are:

• Proper diagnosis: A good dental professional will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums before recommending a dental crown. This ensures that the procedure is necessary, and any underlying issues are addressed before placing the crown.
• Accurate fitting: A well-trained dentist will take precise measurements using advanced technology to ensure a perfect fit for your crown. This reduces the risk of discomfort or problems with the crown down the line.
• Use of high-quality materials: Reputable dentists use high-quality materials such as porcelain or ceramic for dental crowns. These materials are durable and have a natural appearance, making them an ideal choice for restoring the function and aesthetics of your teeth.

At Midnight Sun Dental, we’re here to help with dental crown procedures for clients around Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and nearby areas. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!