Westside Dental Associates

There are plenty of good reasons to get your teeth professionally whitened by a dentist, but there is one specific instance where you might want to avoid it – at least temporarily. If you have an active case of cavities or early signs of tooth decay, it’s best to treat the issue with a tooth-colored filling before doing anything else. Keep reading to learn why cavities and teeth whitening simply don’t mix!

A bright, white smile is often associated with health, confidence, and attractiveness. While there are countless whitening products available in stores today—such as toothpastes, strips, and gels—many people find they don’t deliver the results they’re hoping for. That’s where professional teeth whitening comes in. Performed under the care of a dentist, this treatment offers benefits that over-the-counter options simply can’t match. If you’ve been considering whitening your smile, here are some key reasons to choose professional whitening.

Do you get anxious about going to the dentist? Is there a way to make your appointments easier? You may wonder, “What is sedation dentistry and will it help me?” This is a great option for those with anxiety, as it gives you a calming sensation during your visit. However, many people question the feeling it gives, so they can better understand what to expect. Continue reading to learn more about dental sedation and how it can allow you to get the care you need.

Sedation dentistry has been used for centuries to help patients feel more comfortable during dental treatments, yet myths and misunderstandings still keep many people from considering it. If dental anxiety or fear has been holding you back, learning the truth about sedation can help you take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile.

Let’s bust some of the most common myths about sedation dentistry.

Given what you’ve heard, you may think Invisalign protects your teeth as it works. Many people see its plastic as a “smile shield” – something that defends against oral health risks. That said, you can actually get cavities during Invisalign treatment if you’re careless. Unless you actively look after your grin, the aligners won’t prevent decay. To prove these facts, here’s a primer on Invisalign and how to avoid tooth decay during treatment.

When you feel a bump on your gums, it can be worrying. You might ask yourself how it got there or what you should do about it. There are several causes that may lead to these bumps. Some are more concerning than others, but having your emergency dentist take a look is likely the way to go. Here are five reasons why you may have gum bumps and why you should visit your dentist as soon as possible.

It can be hard for some people to invest in themselves. Maybe you feel guilty about splurging on an elective treatment or feel like your money should be spent on something for your home or family. But the truth is, self-care isn’t selfish. In fact, the adage “you can’t pour from an empty cup” is the perfect sentiment when it comes to cosmetic dentistry. After all, if you’re unhappy with your appearance, it can cause myriad problems in other areas of your life.

If you’ve been considering veneers but haven’t been able to justify choosing yourself, here are a few amazing benefits of this confidence-boosting treatment that will have a positive effect on you and everyone around you!

Did you know that visiting your dentist for a routine checkup and cleaning every six months can help prevent potential emergencies? Consistent visits allow them to monitor your condition, enabling them to catch and address any issues before they worsen. For instance, they can identify and fill a cavity before it becomes infected and requires a root canal.

Although some issues are completely unavoidable, there are many ways to keep common oral issues at bay. Continue reading to learn 3 ways you can safeguard your smile!

When pearly white teeth become stained, they typically turn a yellowish hue. So if your teeth look more gray, you might be worried about what that could mean. While gray teeth can sometimes be a sign that something’s wrong with your oral health, there are plenty of other possible explanations. To know for sure, you’ll have to visit your dentist – who can also recommend the best treatment option for you.

Dental veneers can make your smile look absolutely stunning – just ask Hollywood stars like Morgan Freeman and Tom Cruise! The process, however, isn’t a one-and-done appointment like teeth whitening or dental bonding. You’ll have to go through at least five separate steps in order to complete your dental cosmetic transformation.

If that seems overwhelming, don’t worry – this post lays out everything you need to know about getting dental veneers in a quick, easy-to-read guide!