Fillings fill (hence the name) open cavities created from tooth decay, cracks, breaks, and other damage. If you have a cavity, for example, your dentist will remove the decay and seal the open space with what is known as a filling. They can perform the same type of work for cracks, breaks, and other forms of damage.

Removing the decayed part of your tooth will stop further damage from occurring, and it will also eliminate the pain or discomfort you may experience. However, if you don’t take the proper precautions, the decay can spread to surrounding teeth, causing further damage and decay. 

The biggest preventative of cavities is proper oral hygiene. Bacteria, sugary drinks and foods, unhealthy snacks, and poor brushing and flossing are the most comment factors in which cavities appear. The better care you take of your teeth, the less likely you will get cavities. However, other factors can play a role, such as family history, certain medications (especially those that cause dry mouth), receding gums, and more. 

We check for any signs of cavities or other forms of damage that may need to be fixed at every visit. If we catch the issue early, the recovery is simple and quick. If you have tooth decay and don’t visit the dentist, the damage can take much longer to mend. 

Many people don’t notice signs or symptoms of tooth decay and are shocked when we reveal they have a cavity. The most common symptoms are:

• Mouth or tooth pain
• Bad breath
• Bleeding gums
• Tooth sensitivity – especially with hot or cold food and drinks 

At Cakmes Dental Studio, we offer tooth-colored fillings to ensure your smile is healthier, stronger, and more natural-looking. These composite resin fillings are a great way to keep your smile healthy and natural-looking. They look and feel like natural teeth, and there’s no shiny, silver metal distracting from the rest of your smile. If you’ve noticed any of the above symptoms, come in for a check-up to make sure that cavities aren’t the reason why. And as always, make sure you brush and floss your teeth properly every day. Healthy oral habits are the best way to avoid cavities and keep a healthy and beautiful smile.

Veneers have recently gained popularity, with many celebrities choosing to “swap out” their teeth for newer, whiter, and better ones. If that’s all that you know about veneers, we will take a few steps back. But, first, let’s go through what veneers are, why we use them, and how they can help your smile and oral health. 

Veneers are used to improve the shape and color of your teeth, but they do much more than that. On top of being a cosmetic fix to specific issues, veneers also prevent damage and decay. 

At Cakmes Dental Studio, we offer two types of veneers: porcelain and composite resin. Let’s look at the differences between these two and see what may be a better fit for you. 

Porcelain Veneers

These are thin, tooth-colored shells created in our studio that cover the front-facing side of the tooth. Porcelain veneers, also known as the original veneers, are highly durable and mimic the appearance and feel of natural teeth. 

At Cakmes Dental Studio, we offer DURAthin porcelain veneers. These veneers are thin, custom-made pieces that eliminate the need to drill, shave down, or grind the existing tooth. This stops the “vampire teeth” that many people think of, but it also preserves your natural, healthy teeth by simply adding a layer over them.

Composite Resin Veneers

Composite resin is the newest version of veneers in which resin is applied directly to the teeth in layers to create the desired look. This type of veneer is more durable than in years past, but it must be cared for properly to achieve the continuous desired look. It’s essential to note composite resin veneers wear and stain more quickly than porcelain veneers, but they are easier and quicker to repair if needed. 

Are you the right candidate for veneers?

Veneers can help transform your smile, but they aren’t the right option for everyone, especially if you clench or grind your teeth or have lower levels of enamel. Veneers are commonly used to correct:

• Crooked or misshapen teeth
• Spaces or gaps between teeth
• Stained teeth
• Broken, chipped, or damaged teeth

If you suffer from one or more of these issues, you may be a good candidate for veneers. If you’re interested in learning more about veneers, we encourage you to set up a consultation appointment. We’ll let you know if veneers can help improve your smile and which type would be best for you at your consultation. In some cases, we may recommend a combination of porcelain and composite resin veneers. 

To be a candidate for veneers, you must have healthy teeth and gums. If you don’t, our dentists can help fix the issues before we agree to add veneers. After your veneers are placed, you must continue to brush and floss regularly, as cavities can still form under or around your veneers. Attending your bi-yearly dental appointments is crucial in maintaining your veneers’ aesthetic appearance and functionality. If you have any questions or would like to set up your consultation, call us today.