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Veneers

Veneers can help patients correct chips, cracks, uneven, or stained teeth and restore a smile quickly. Dental veneers are made out of either porcelain or composite, and both materials are the color of our natural teeth. Dental veneers are used to cover the front surface of your teeth and require little preparation.

Our doctors have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, and Downtown Dental offers many cosmetic services to help rejuvenate your smile. Our skill and attention to detail can help restore your confidence and achieve the perfect smile.

Many patients wonder how much veneers generally cost so they can plan ahead when choosing a treatment plan. Porcelain veneers are the most durable type of veneer and tend to cost more compared to composite veneers. On average porcelain veneers can cost between $900-$2,500 per tooth. On the other hand, composite veneers are easier to place but do cost less compared to porcelain veneers. Composite veneers are not as durable and can cost between $250-$1,500 per tooth.

During our detailed consultation process, our doctor will take a look at your teeth and mouth and determine which type of veneer is best. We encourage our patients to ask questions, and we will help you understand the benefits of each type of veneer.

What Can I Expect During the Veneers Process?

If you decide to move forward with veneers the process is quick and minimally invasive. Porcelain veneers require some preparation during the first appointment to ensure the veneer can bond properly to the tooth. Impressions are taken and sent out, and we require the patient to return for a second appointment to have their veneers placed. Temporary veneers may be used while the patient waits for their permanent veneers.

The process for composite veneers is similar, but this option can be done in just one appointment. The tooth is prepared and the composite material is bonded to the tooth that same day. The area is cured and polished, and your smile is restored.

Both types of veneers can give patients a beautiful natural-looking smile. Let our team at Downtown Dental help you correct those areas that bother you, and allow you to feel comfortable around others again. We love helping our patients and welcome you to join our dental family.

What Are the Benefits of Veneers?

  • Little preparation is required.
  • Veneers look and feel natural.
  • Veneers can correct chips, cracks, or uneven teeth.
  • Can close gaps between teeth.
  • Durable and stain-resistant.
  • Low maintenance and cost-effective.
  • Can be placed in only two appointments.

Contact Us Today to Transform your Smile!

If you are ready to take that first step towards a new smile, Downtown Dental can help. We would love to provide you with more information about veneers, and how they may benefit you. Our team is committed to providing the very best care for all of our patients. Let us know how we can help you brighten your smile!

To schedule your appointment with us, contact Downtown Dental, and our team will be happy to assist you.

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Dental Restoration

If you have teeth that are decayed, injured, or missing you may require a dental restoration. Common types of dental restorations include crowns, fillings, implants, dentures, and bridges. Never hesitate to call the dentist if you have an issue with your tooth. In many cases our team can save your tooth with a restoration before the tooth damage progresses. It is always important to address any issues with your teeth promptly, or more serious complications may develop.

What Are Dental Restorations?

Dental restorations are various ways your dentist can help restore your teeth. If you are missing parts of your tooth, have an injury, or decay, restorations can help restore your tooth and prevent further damage. If you have a portion of your tooth missing due to decay, or have an old restoration that is in need of replacement, dental restorations can help fix these issues. 

Following a good oral hygiene routine at home can help keep your teeth and mouth healthy and prevent decay. We recommend attending your regular exams twice a year to ensure your teeth and mouth look healthy. During your regular visits our doctor will check for cavities, and make sure we don’t see any serious issues.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Restorations?

  • Fillings: Fillings are the most common type of dental restoration and can help save teeth from decay. There are many filling types from tooth colored composite fillings, to silver amalgam, and composite fillings. Depending on the size of the cavity and location, will determine what type of filling material is used.
  • Crowns: Crowns are a cap that is placed over a tooth. Crowns restore the shape and size of a tooth, and are matched to blend in with your natural teeth. Crown are used with dental implants, or after a root canal to restore the functionality of a tooth.
  • Bridges: Bridges are false teeth and help to bridge the gap for missing teeth. Bridges are used along side crowns, and cement is used to permanently secure the bridge into place.
  • Dental Implants: Dental Implants are similar to a screw that is placed into the jaw. Implants are posts that are made of titanium and attached to a connector or abutment. The implant is then covered with a crown. Implants are permanent and are highly durable, lasting upwards of 15 years.
  • Dentures: Dentures are made of acrylic resin combined with metal and are a removable replacement for missing teeth. If you still have some of your natural teeth, partial dentures can be used to help bridge the gap and give a natural look.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Restorations?

Dental restorations provide many benefits and help restore your smile. If you are missing teeth or have decay, and are looking to get that perfect smile back, contact Downtown Dental to help. Dental restorations can help you speak and eat easier, and give you a smile that restores your confidence.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Restorations?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental restorations contact Downtown Dental. Our doctors have years of experience in dental restorations, and love to help patients get the smile of their dreams. Your oral health is important to us, and we make our patients a priority, and always have your best interests in mind. Let our team get you on the road to a great smile!

To schedule your appointment with us contact Downtown Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Oral pathology is the identification process of certain diseases or disorders of the mouth or jaw. Thorough examination and accuracy in diagnosis are extremely important to ensure the patient is treated properly. Our surgeons have years of experience in oral pathology and treating disorders. Our detailed examination process allows our team to determine the cause of an issue, and provide the proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Are Examples of Common Oral Problems?

  • Misaligned jaw
  • Cleft lip or cleft palate
  • Periodontal disease
  • Oral cancer
  • Oral ulcers
  • Infections
  • Prolonged pain
  • Cavities
  • Tooth Loss

Why Is Oral Pathology Important?

Finding out the true cause of your problem is very important. This allows our team to treat you properly. If we know what is causing the problem, we can treat the issue quickly. Our team will look at not only the physical symptoms you are experiencing, but your background and any existing medical conditions you may have. Oral health and your overall health are directly connected, and oral pathology evaluates the entire picture to provide the proper diagnosis.

How Can I Protect My Oral Health?

Keeping your teeth and mouth healthy can avoid problems and multiple trips to the dental office. Following good oral hygiene habits at home is essential to keeping your teeth and mouth feeling great. Make sure to brush and floss each day, and attend your regular dental visits twice a year. Stick to a healthy diet, and avoid foods or drinks that contain high levels of sugar. Stay hydrated and make sure to get proper sleep. Your overall health directly affects your oral health, and you can protect your oral health with good hygiene and lifestyle habits.

Interested in Finding Out More About Oral Pathology?

If you are interested in finding out more about oral pathology, or have a concern you would like to discuss, please contact Downtown Dental. Your oral health is our priority, and we address issues promptly to help you get on the road to recovery. Come experience quality dentistry at Downtown Dental, and join our dental family.

To schedule your appointment, contact Downtown Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Invisalign duration

Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces, and eliminates the need for brackets and wires. The Invisalign system uses clear aligner trays to gently move your teeth into place over time. This treatment is discrete and are the trays are comfortable when worn.

When you decide to move forward with Invisalign we take photos as well as detailed impressions of your teeth, and create a customized treatment that works best for you. The Invisalign trays can be easily removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning. This treatment is popular for both adults and teens, and treatment time is similar to traditional braces.

How Long Are Invisalign Trays Worn?

When you choose Invisalign you must be committed to wearing your trays for the required amount of time each day. The Invisalign aligners come with a blue indicator to tell you that you have worn your tray for the required amount of time. Invisalign trays are typically worn between 20-22 hours per day, and this varies per patient. Treatment time on average is between 6-18 months, and the length of treatment time depends on the severity of the correction.

Invisalign is a popular treatment choice for many patients, and provides exceptional results. Patients are required to attend regular exams in our office to ensure your treatment is progressing in the right direction. Our team works with you to ensure your treatment plan goes smoothly. Our team is available to answer questions you have during treatment, and if you ever have a problem with your aligner trays, we recommend calling our office.

Creating beautiful straight smiles is what we do, and we enjoy helping patients achieve the smile of their dreams. Let Downtown Dental help you start a treatment plan towards straighter teeth with our Invisalign treatment.

Interested in Finding Out More About Invisalign?

If you are interested in learning more about Invisalign orthodontic treatment, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us. Our doctors have years of experience in orthodontics, and will complete a thorough exam of your teeth. A customized treatment plan will be created that works for you. Your oral health is our priority, and we want to make your experience with us the very best!

To schedule an appointment, contact Downtown Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

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crown durability

Crowns are used to restore or save a damaged tooth. They are similar to a cap that is placed over the tooth, and give patients the ability to use their tooth again. Crowns are highly durable, look natural, and can help restore the strength of a damaged tooth. A crown is cemented onto the damaged tooth, and is a common restoration process done in our office.

Crowns can last between 5-15 years, and this depends on the individual, and the wear and tear of the crown. It is important to follow good oral hygiene habits to keep your crown healthy, and avoid the need for replacement. In some cases, if patients take good care of their crowns, they can last between 25-30 years.

When Are Crowns Used?

Crowns are used after a root canal treatment to restore a tooth. Crowns can also help restore a tooth that is stained, misshapen, discolored or broken. If a patient has had an injury, or has a cracked tooth, crowns can help save the tooth, and restore the tooth back to its normal function.

What Can I Do To Help Lengthen the Life of My Crown?

We recommend patients avoid biting down on hard objects or foods. If you clench your teeth while you sleep, or suffer from bruxism, you may need a mouthguard to help protect your crown. Attending your regular exams and cleanings in our office is important. This helps our team ensure your teeth and crowns are healthy and in good condition.

If you notice you have a chip or crack, or are experiencing any prolonged pain with your crown, we recommend calling our office right away. These issues must be addressed immediately, and patients should not hesitate to contact our office.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Crowns?

If you are interested in finding out if dental crowns are right for you, contact Downtown Dental. Our doctors are skilled in restoring smiles, and help patients achieve the smile of their dreams. Let our team help you take care of your smile, and restore your confidence.

To schedule your appointment, contact Downtown Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Dental Bonding

If you have decided to restore your smile dental bonding is a great option. Bonding is not permanent, and can be reversed if necessary. Bonding is very durable, and if you have any wear or tear it can be repaired easily. This treatment can take care of cosmetic issues, is quick, and less expensive compared to other options. Dental bonding is great for repairing decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth. Bonding can even correct discolored teeth, and looks natural.

The composite material used can be shaped to match your natural teeth. Other benefits include changing the length of a tooth, or closing spaces between teeth. The procedure can typically be done in one day, and no anesthesia is needed. Dental bonding can last between 5-10 years before the composite material begins to wear down.

How Does the Dental Bonding Process Work?

Dental bonding does not require any removal of your tooth enamel. During the process your tooth is gently etched using a mild acid solution to help roughen the surface. This allows the composite material to bond to your tooth easily. The tooth-colored resin material is applied to the area, and is then cured with an ultraviolet light. Your tooth is shaped and polished to match your natural teeth. This process takes between 30-60 minutes.

Does Dental Bonding Last?

Dental bonding requires the patients to take care of the area that was bonded. The composite material used is very durable, but is never as strong as your natural teeth. With dental bonding there is risk of the bonding material separating from the tooth. Dental bonding can also chip or break. This is unlikely, but we do recommend patients do take care of the area that was bonded to avoid any complications. The good news is that dental bonding can be repaired. Dental bonding can last between 5-10 years or longer if taken care of properly.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Bonding?

If you are ready to find out more about how dental bonding may benefit you, contact Downtown Dental. Our doctors have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, and love to help patients achieve that smile they have always wanted.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact Downtown Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Dry Mouth with tongue wide open

Dry mouth is also known as xerostomia, and this happens when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva in the mouth. In some cases, dry mouth is temporary, and can be caused by dehydration. In other cases, dry mouth is a chronic problem, and many struggle with this issue. Dry mouth can be caused by medical conditions such as diabetes, or can be caused by an infected salivary gland.

When we do not have enough saliva production this can cause oral health issues. Saliva plays an important role in our oral health, and helps to protect our teeth and gums from acids or erosion. The saliva washes away bacteria or food, and keeps our teeth and mouth healthy.

What Issues Can Dry Mouth Cause?

Dry mouth can cause many issues including gum disease, tooth decay, staining, and erosion of enamel. When bacteria are not washed away, and plaque and tartar collect, this can cause gum disease, and in turn this increases the risk of tooth decay and cavities. If not treated gum disease can cause tooth deterioration, or even tooth loss.

When your saliva production is low the bacteria and acids stay on your teeth longer, and this can lead to tooth decay or enamel erosion. If the acid and plaque levels are high, your teeth can become discolored or stained. It is always important to attend your regular dental exams and cleaning appointments to ensure your teeth and mouth are healthy, and do not have any decay.

How Can I Treat Dry Mouth?

The good news is there are ways to treat dry mouth and restore the health of your teeth and gums. Depending on the level of damage will determine what treatment is required. Restoration options include fillings, crowns, or gum treatments.

Tips To Prevent Dry Mouth

  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
  • Use an over-the-counter saliva treatment or substitute
  • Use a humidifier while sleeping to increase moisture in the air
  • Chew sugar-free gum to help saliva production
  • Stay on top of your oral health routine, and brush and floss daily to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup

Ready To Find Out More?

If you are suffering from dry mouth, and have concerns about your oral health, we encourage you to contact Downtown Dental. Scheduling a consultation with our team is the first step towards healthy teeth and gums. Our doctors will perform a thorough exam, and provide treatment recommendations that work for you. Dry mouth can lead to serious issues, and should always be addressed right away.

To schedule your appointment, please contact Downtown Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Does Coke Ruin Teeth

Your diet can play a part in the health of your teeth. Drinking soda is common, and many people drink soda every day without even thinking of the effects on your teeth. Not only is soda bad for your teeth, it is associated with type 2 diabetes and weight gain. At Downtown Dental, we focus on prevention and recommend patients follow a healthy diet, and avoid foods and drinks with high sugar levels. Your teeth are important, and the choices you make can help prevent many unwanted visits to the dentist.

What Happens to My Teeth When I Drink Soda?

Breaks Down Enamel

When you drink soda the sugars in the soda mix with the bacteria in your mouth to form acid. This acid attacks your teeth and can wear down the tooth enamel. The acid breaks down the enamel on your teeth and softens it, making the enamel more prone to decay. Evan sugar free sodas can damage your enamel.

Cavities

When you drink soda, the acid can also reach the layer of dentin that is under the enamel. This can cause cavities to develop over time for people that drink Coke regularly. If you have composite fillings, the soda can also erode away your fillings.

What Can I Do To Prevent Coke From Damaging My Teeth?

If you have to have a soda once in a while, there are things you can do while enjoying your beverage that can help prevent damage to your teeth.

  • Use a straw to sip the soda. This will help keep the acid and sugar off of your teeth.
  • Drink soda only on occasion. Only drink soda for special occasions, or try and limit your intake to one soda per day.
  • Drink fast to lessen the time the soda has to interact with your teeth.
  • Rinse with water after you drink a soda. Rinsing after drinking soda can help wash the acids and sugars away from your teeth, and prevent damage.
  • Don’t brush right away after drinking a soda. Brushing right after drinking a soda can cause damage to your teeth. This is because the acid from the soda was just in contact with your teeth, and this makes your teeth more vulnerable to damage while brushing.
  • Attend regular cleanings and exams at your dentist. Regular visits will allow our doctors to identify problems before they become more serious.
  • Do not drink soda before bedtime. Drinking before bedtime just gives the acid and sugar all night to attack your teeth and cause damage.
  • Choose other beverages such as water or sparkling soda water that will not cause damage to your teeth.

Taking care of your oral health should be a priority, and this includes making good choices when it comes to your diet. Staying away from sugary foods and drinks can really help keep your enamel strong, and your teeth free of cavities. If you think you have damage from drinking soda and would like to come in for an exam, we welcome you to schedule an appointment with us. Our team can help get your oral health back on track, and give you recommendations on what to change in order to prevent future issues.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are due for your dental cleaning or exam, or have concerns about the enamel on your teeth and would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Downtown Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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How Come Some People Get Cavities Easier

Cavities are always something we try to avoid with brushing and flossing each day. You may notice you get cavities frequently and others don’t. This doesn’t seem fair, but there are other factors that play into keeping your teeth free of decay that you may not realize. There are ways to reduce your risk for cavities outside of brushing and flossing regularly.

Why Are Some Prone to Cavities More Than Others?

  • Diet – Reducing the amount of sugar you eat or drink can help prevent cavities. Your chance of getting cavities increases if you eat or drink foods with a high amount of sugar.
  • Gum Recession – If you suffer from gum disease and your gums are receding, the root of the tooth is exposed. Bacteria can reach the root area of the tooth and cavities can develop more easily.
  • Dry Mouth – If you tend to have a dry mouth your risk for decay increases. We need saliva to wash away bacteria in our mouths.
  • Genetics – Unfortunately some people are born with a tendency to develop cavities more frequently than others. This is because some people are more susceptible to a certain type of cavity causing bacteria.

How Can I Reduce My Risk for Cavities?

There are things you can do to help reduce your risk for cavities. This doesn’t mean you will never have a cavity again, but it does mean you are changing your habits, and putting forth a good effort to try and prevent decay from developing.

  • Regular Visits to Your Dentist – Make sure you attend your regular visits to your dentist. These exams help to identify potential cavities, and allow the dentist to get in front of issues before they become worse.
  • Reduce Sugars in Your Diet– Try and stay away from foods or drinks that are high in sugar.
  • Keep Up With Oral Hygiene – Stay on top of your oral hygiene with brushing and flossing at least twice a day. This will help prevent plaque buildup that causes decay.
  • Use a Toothpaste With Fluoride – Using a toothpaste that contains fluoride can help prevent tooth decay.
  • Use Mouthwash – Mouthwash can help rinse away bacteria, and if the wash contains fluoride this can help prevent cavities.

Knowing what you can do to help prevent cavities can help you avoid many trips to the dentist. Taking care of our teeth is very important, and can help avoid dental issues. Always practice good oral hygiene habits to keep your teeth and mouth feeling great.

At Downtown Dental, we discuss what patients are doing at home to help prevent decay. Our staff provides tips and tricks to help our patients keep their teeth looking great. Taking care of your teeth and gums is important, and can avoid serious issues from developing. If you have not been to our office for your regular dental exam, we encourage you to schedule your appointment.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are looking for a dentist near you for your regular dental exam, Downtown Dental is here to help. Our office has state of the art technology and equipment, and we always provide the highest level of service to all of our patients.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact Downtown Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Crooked Teeth

Many patients long for that perfect straight smile. It seems everywhere you turn; you see people with beautiful smiles as a result of braces. If you have crooked teeth, you may feel isolated and your self confidence is lost. Not everyone is born with perfect teeth, and some people will need help in order to get that beautiful straight smile. The good thing is there are many orthodontic options to help correct crooked teeth, and get you the smile of your dreams. At Downtown Dental, our doctors have years of experience in orthodontics, and creating beautiful smiles is our passion.

What Are the Common Causes of Crooked Teeth?

Genetics

Genetics is the main cause of crooked teeth in many patients. Unfortunately, we do not have control over how our teeth will develop. If a patient has a smaller mouth, their risk for overcrowding increases. Other causes can be related to jaw issues such as overbites or underbites.

Habits

Many children suck their thumbs or use a pacifier. This can actually do more harm than good, and the damage is typically noticed years later. These types of habits can lead to crooked teeth. If you thrust your tongue or breath through your mouth, this can also cause crooked teeth. Orthodontic treatment is typically recommended to straighten teeth, and keep your teeth aligned.

Injury

If you suffered from an injury in the mouth or jaw this can cause crooked teeth. When teeth are loose or lost, this can cause your remaining teeth and jaw to shift, and cause your teeth to become crooked. Seeking help from an orthodontist is important to help repair your mouth, and get your teeth back in place.

Keeping Primary Teeth

Taking care of a child’s baby teeth is important. Primary teeth help the permanent teeth erupt into the right place. If a child loses their primary teeth too early due to decay or trauma, this can directly affect how their permanent teeth erupt. This can cause a child’s permanent teeth to come in crooked.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Orthodontic treatment can help patients with crooked teeth at any age. If you start early, you can get the best possible results. Today, there are many options for orthodontic treatment such as traditional braces or clear aligners. At Downtown Dental, we discuss all of the orthodontic options during our detailed consultation process. Depending on the severity of the correction and health of your teeth, we help our patients choose the option that best fits their lifestyle. Your oral health is our priority, and we love to help patients achieve the smile of their dreams.

Looking for a Dentist Near You?

If you are looking for a dentist near you that offers orthodontic treatment, Downtown Dental can help. Our doctors have years of experience in orthodontics, and we provide the highest level of service to all of our patients. Don’t live with crooked teeth, let our team help you get on the road to a beautiful smile. Correcting your smile can boost confidence, and allow you to feel great around others.

To schedule your orthodontic consultation with us, contact Downtown Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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(308) 382-8205

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Downtown Dental
604 West 3rd Street
Grand Island, NE 68801
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