How Long Do Dentist Appointments Take: Factors to Consider

Written by Dalesandro DMD on August 6, 2024. Posted in General, Cosmetic.

How long do dentist appointments take? Although the exact time depends on the dental procedure occurring, you can expect an average appointment to take somewhere around 52 minutes. For a general checkup and deep cleaning of teeth, 30 to 45 minutes is common.

Time is a concern for patients at the offices of Dr. Dalesandro & Associates. We understand your time is valuable. We’ll discuss some of the factors that affect your dental appointment time, helping you make an accurate estimate. Understand that our staff will do everything we can to provide a streamlined experience for you, all while keeping you comfortable.

General Dental Checkup

How long is a dentist appointment? A comprehensive dental exam during routine visits requires 30 to 45 minutes. You spend much of this time with the dental hygienist for the teeth cleaning process.

If you are experiencing particular problems with your oral health, the appointment time may be longer. If you need oral X-rays to look for dental issues, this could lengthen the appointment by a few minutes, too.

The general checkup typically includes:

A discussion of any oral health issues you’re noticing
A visual exam of your wisdom teeth and other teeth
X-rays (typically once per year)
A routine cleaning process for removing plaque and tartar
Additional brushing and rinsing as necessary for teeth and gums
Flossing the teeth to remove any remaining particles at the gum line
A fluoride treatment, which can include a foamy gel or a substance painted on the teeth

Finally, the dentist performs a thorough exam to address any areas of concern you have or areas the dental hygienist covers with you. As part of this thorough examination, the dentist may perform oral cancer screening and other screenings that weren’t part of the routine a few decades ago. However, they’re an important part of a modern general dental checkup that adds a few minutes to the exam time.

Cavity Fillings

If you need the dentist to fill a cavity for you, expect the process to take anywhere from about 20 minutes to an hour or more. The time required for this appointment depends in large part on the severity of the problem and on the number of cavities you need filled.

If you have deep cavities where the tooth decay is severe, the process takes longer as the dentist tries to protect the healthy part of the tooth. If you have multiple cavities, the dentist may need to apply multiple shots of numbing medication or local anesthetic. It could take longer for the medication to take effect in a situation like this.

If the cavities are in the back of your mouth where it’s difficult for the dentists to work, the process of filling cavities can take longer than normal.

Even though it can take longer to fill multiple cavities in one appointment, some patients prefer this option. The overall time required for the procedure in one appointment should be significantly less than multiple appointments to fill a single cavity each time.

How long do dentist appointments take to fill severe cavity problems? The oral hygienist can give you an estimate, taking the number of cavities you have and the depth of damage to the teeth into account.

Restorative Dentistry and Oral Surgery

If you are visiting your dental office for complex procedures, you can expect a single visit to take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, including treatment planning for certain procedures.

Some of these types of restorative procedures require more than one visit to the dentist’s office for follow-up care. Your dentist may need to take measurements for partial dentures or implants during one visit before installing them in subsequent visits.

For example, if you need a root canal, it can take 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the severity of the problem and how many rest breaks you need. Your treatment plan might require a second appointment after the root canal for the dentist to install a crown, which could take another 60 to 90 minutes.

Some of the most common types of restorative dental procedures and oral surgeries, as well as the length of time required in the dentist’s chair, include:

Broken tooth repair: 30 to 60 minutes
Crowns: 60 to 90 minutes (when made in-house)
Dental implants: 60 to 90 minutes
Periodontal gum disease treatment: 3 to 5 hours over multiple visits
Root canals: 30 to 90 minutes
Tooth extraction: 30 minutes
Wisdom tooth removal: 1 to 2 hours for all four wisdom teeth

Factors That Affect Times of Dental Exams

The time spent waiting in the dental office is frequently of concern to patients. Waiting too long can enhance dental anxiety.

At the dental offices of Dr. Dalesandro & Associates, we take every step possible to keep our dental exam appointments on time. We work hard to consistently beat the industry average time for dental practices of around 10 minutes of waiting room time for oral health patients.

Some of the ways you can speed up how long your dentist appointment takes include:

Arriving a few minutes ahead of your appointment, just in case you need to update contact data, your medical history, your patient history, or dental health insurance information.
Having up-to-date insurance cards with you when you arrive.
Alerting us ahead of time if you will be late for the appointment.
Calling us before the appointment if you are having any specific dental concerns for your teeth that you want to address, so we can prepare for the visit.
Following good oral hygiene practices for clean and healthy teeth and to avoid dental problems.

Let Us Show You How Our Office Procedures Streamline Your Dental Visit

How long do dentist appointments take? At Dr. Dalesandro & Associates, we understand that you want to receive the highest level of care in an expedient fashion. No matter what kind of oral health procedure you’re having done at our office, we promise to make the job go smoothly.

To book your next dental appointment, call us today at (520) 327-5993. Let us show you our level of professionalism and efficiency first-hand.

Why Are My Teeth So Small? 5 Reasons Explained

Written by drdalesandro on April 29, 2024. Posted in Cosmetic, Teeth & Gums Problems.

If you have ever wondered, “Why are my teeth so small?” You are not alone. While the size of our teeth can vary from person to person, several factors contribute to their size and the overall appearance of our smiles.

Read on to understand some causes of smaller teeth and the solutions available to help improve them.

Genetics

One of the primary factors influencing the size of your teeth is genetics. Just like other physical attributes such as height or eye color, the size and shape of your teeth are largely determined by your genetic makeup.

If your parents or other family members have small or short teeth, there’s a good chance that you may inherit this trait as well. Genetics plays a significant role in shaping all of our dental features, including tooth size.

Malocclusion

Malocclusion refers to misalignment or incorrect positioning of the teeth when the jaws are closed. This condition can sometimes result in teeth appearing smaller or larger than they actually are. For instance, overcrowding of teeth can make them appear smaller due to limited space within the jaw.

Conversely, if there’s excessive spacing between teeth, they may seem larger than average. Consulting with a dentist can help diagnose and address malocclusion issues.

Tooth Erosion and Wear

Over time, teeth can wear down due to various factors such as aging, teeth grinding (bruxism), acidic food and drinks, or poor oral hygiene. As enamel, a protective layer on the tooth surface, wears away, the underlying dentin may become more exposed, making the teeth appear smaller.

Erosion of the tooth structure can lead to changes in tooth shape and size, as well as tooth sensitivity and discomfort. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups can help prevent excessive tooth wear and erosion.

Developmental Conditions

Certain developmental conditions or genetic disorders can affect tooth development and result in smaller-than-average teeth. For example, conditions like hypodontia (missing teeth), microdontia (abnormally small teeth), or ectodermal dysplasia (a genetic disorder affecting the teeth, hair, and nails) can influence the size and shape of teeth.

If you suspect that a developmental condition may be contributing to the size of your teeth, it’s essential to consult with a dental professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Excess Gum Tissue

In some cases, the appearance of small teeth may be attributed to excessive gum tissue covering the lower and upper teeth, a condition known as gingival hyperplasia or gingival hypertrophy. When there is an overgrowth of gum tissue, it can make the teeth appear smaller than they actually are, creating an uneven or gummy smile.

This condition can be a result of various factors, including genetics, certain medications, or poor oral hygiene. Fortunately, treatments such as gum contouring or gingivectomy are available to reshape the gum line, revealing more of the tooth surface and enhancing the appearance of the smile.

Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions

If the appearance of your teeth is affecting your confidence and self-esteem, there are cosmetic dental treatments available. Options such as dental bonding, porcelain veneers placed over your natural tooth, or crowns can help fix small teeth, restoring symmetry and balance to your smile.

A consultation with a cosmetic dentist can help determine the most suitable treatment option based on your individual needs and preferences.

Addressing Small Teeth

The size of your teeth can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, malocclusion, tooth wear, excessive gum tissue, and developmental conditions. While small teeth are a natural variation in the population, they can also be addressed through cosmetic dentistry procedures if desired.

If you are concerned about the size of your teeth or have any other dental-related questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the friendly Dr. Dalesandro team. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile that you can proudly share with the world.

Dr. Dalesandro & Associates

At Dr. Dalesandro & Associates, we prioritize your family’s dental health and happiness, including addressing concerns about small teeth. As specialists in family dentistry, we offer comprehensive services tailored to all ages, ensuring every smile receives personalized care.

Located conveniently in Tucson, Dr. Dalesandro & Associates is committed to the well-being of your entire family, regardless of tooth size.

Begin your family’s journey toward healthier smiles with us by booking an appointment on our website.

Affordable Cosmetic Dentistry Options

Written by drdalesandro on April 5, 2024. Posted in Cosmetic, Dental Costs.

Cosmetic dental problems can be anything from a cracked tooth to staining. When you notice cosmetic dental issues, it’s easy to stress yourself out trying to find a solution to the problem. Depending on the type of cosmetic dental issues you’re facing, several solutions are available to you.

To help you find the best solution to your cosmetic dental issues, you’ll need to get an x-ray of your teeth done. After the x-ray is complete, you can proceed with getting your teeth corrected.

Many people choose cosmetic dental correction over other dental surgery forms because it costs significantly less, and these procedures generally take less time to complete than full-blown surgery.

The causes of dental issues

Everything from decay, cavities, and excessive damage can cause your teeth to lose their strength and clean appearance. When this begins to happen, you’ll likely need to undergo some sort of necessary dental procedures. Each basic common dental procedure addresses a specific problem or condition.

If you’re experiencing any dental issues and need help correcting them, continue reading to find out more.

The Most Common dental procedures

To understand what a basic dental procedure is, you must understand what preventative dental care is.

Preventative dental consists of any procedure that aims to prevent the formation of cavities, damage, or infections in your mouth. Once you receive a basic dental practice, your oral hygiene has already succumbed to some minor or significant problem.

Based on the exact issue you’re facing, your dentist will recommend one of a few standard dental procedures to help solve the issue. Below, we will give you a detailed breakdown of the most common dental procedures for general oral health problems.

Affordable cosmetic dentistry options

Keep in mind, all of the cosmetic dental procedures we mention below only address aesthetic issues with your teeth. None of them will resolve underlying structural problems, so you need to seek another solution if you’re experiencing decay or cavity formation.

With all of that being said, it’s time to look at the top cosmetic dentistry options available:

Dental Bonding– Dental bonding is a process by which material is applied to any cracks or broken tooth pieces. Dental bonding is a simple process, and it’s very cost-effective. Not to mention, dental bonding lasts for a long time, so you won’t need to have work re-done.
Dental Crowns- Dental crowns are similar to dental fillings; however, instead of filling in removed sections of your teeth, a crown will be placed over your teeth’ reinforced structure. Dental crowns are long-lasting and very simple to perform, so they are recommended over other cosmetic dental surgery forms.
Dental Fillings– if your teeth have been damaged by severe tooth decay, dental fillings are the answer. Dental fillings replace removed sections of your teeth with filler material to prevent further tooth decay.
Veneers– Veneers are thin porcelain sheets placed over damaged teeth to make them appear brighter and more aligned.
Teeth Whitening– Teeth whitening is a process used to remove stains and discoloration from teeth. Smokers and people with abrasive eating habits can benefit from teeth whitening.

Fixing aesthetic dental issues

Before you can proceed with any cosmetic dental procedure, you must first address the exact issue. To do so, you should go into your dentist’s office and ask them to perform an x-ray. Once the x-ray is complete, you will be able to obtain a full diagnosis of your condition so you can choose the appropriate cosmetic dental procedure to fix it.

Understanding what affordable cosmetic dentistry options you have

We’ve covered all of the essential facts and information you need to know about cosmetic dental procedures. Use the tips we’ve given you to repair your dental issues as soon as possible. For more information on our services contact Dr. Dalesandro today.

woman smiling and showing her white teeth

What Is the Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth?

Written by drdalesandro on April 3, 2024. Posted in Teeth Whitening, Cosmetic.

A recent survey revealed that nearly two-thirds of Americans are insecure about their teeth. Some people can’t stand their crooked teeth, while others hate the spaces between them.

However, the biggest complaint people have about their teeth is the color. Dull and discolored teeth ranked at the top of the list of complaints people in the U.S. have about their smiles.

Do you wish your teeth were whiter? Finding the best way to whiten teeth, from baking soda to professional treatments, can help you take pride in your smile again. Below, learn about the top options when brushing teeth isn’t enough.

Exploring the Top Teeth Whitening Method Options

The best method to whiten your teeth is to prevent surface teeth stains from building up in the first place. You can do this by following the advice of the American Dental Association and practicing good oral hygiene. Take these steps to prevent stained teeth from the get-go:

Brush your teeth twice each day for at least two minutes.
Floss your teeth once each day.
Schedule a cleaning with a dental hygienist once every six months.
Avoid acidic foods, coffee, wine, and anything else that can cause tooth discoloration.

You can also aim to make teeth whiter by arranging to have your dentist provide professional teeth whitening treatments. It’s often the most effective way to whiten teeth.

Additionally, many at-home teeth whitening options exist. Although they’re not always as effective as professional treatments, they can also deliver a whiter smile in many instances.

How To Whiten Teeth With Professional Treatments

People seeking to whiten their teeth should do so through a reputable dentist whenever possible. A dentist can supervise teeth whitening procedures, which is typically the best method to whiten discolored teeth.

Before a dentist breaks down the teeth whitening options that might work well for your teeth, they’ll perform an evaluation to check for signs of oral health issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, or problems with dental implants. They may need to treat your teeth and/or gums before whitening your teeth to deliver the best results.

From there, a dentist will use special teeth bleaching products to adjust the color of your teeth and make them look whiter. These teeth whitening solutions will contain a concentrated tooth bleaching agent that can get teeth whiter after just one session in many cases.

Depending on the condition of your teeth, you may need to undergo the whitening process more than once to get the desired results. Still, professional whitening can make your teeth whiter while keeping them healthy.

At-Home Teeth Whitening Products To Consider

Even though professional teeth whitening is the superior option for those interested in whitening teeth, not everyone decides to go in this direction. More than 35 million Americans purchase at-home tooth whitening products each year.

Since the demand for teeth whitening products has increased dramatically, there’s no shortage of options for those who want to try the at-home teeth version. Popular options include:

Tooth whitening toothpastes: A whitening toothpaste usually contains mild abrasives like calcium carbonate, carbamide peroxide, hydrated silica, or sodium bicarbonate that can sometimes remove surface stains from teeth effectively and give them a whiter look. Some even contain hydrogen peroxide. A whitening toothpaste containing active hydrogen peroxide may produce whiter teeth than other whitening toothpastes. You can also look into using a whitening mouthwash.
Tooth whitening strips: Whitening strips normally contain active hydrogen peroxide that acts as a bleaching agent when these strips are placed on your teeth. The bleaching agents in whitening strips must remain on your teeth for anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to make stained and yellow teeth disappear. You may need to use whitening strips several times to get the right results from its whitening gel.
Tooth whitening light devices: While whitening toothpastes and strips with whitening gels are probably the most popular whitening products, they aren’t the only at-home solutions for teeth bleaching. Whitening light devices have also become popular, especially among young people whitening their teeth. When using them, you’ll place a whitening agent on your teeth before holding a blue LED light over them to accelerate the whitening effect.

In addition to testing these at-home methods for achieving whiter teeth, some people prefer trying natural teeth whitening methods. Examples include:

Mixing baking soda and water to create a whitening gel that may act like a mild abrasive
Performing oil pulling with coconut oil to make teeth whiter and potentially improve oral health as a whole
Swishing with diluted hydrogen peroxide to possibly erase surface stains
Rubbing apple cider vinegar on teeth to gradually lighten their appearance with its teeth whitening properties

Just be careful about putting too much faith into the many teeth whitening “hacks” that have emerged online since some may stain teeth. If, for example, you use hydrogen peroxide or baking soda for too long, it may do more harm than good. Both can lead to tooth sensitivity, and you might even end up staining teeth with certain natural teeth whiteners instead of stain removal.

What Is the Best Solution for Whitening Sensitive Teeth?

Dental health studies suggest just over 12% of Americans have sensitive teeth. If you fall into this category, whitening your teeth might present problems the average person with healthy teeth won’t have.

In this scenario, the best way to whiten teeth is to seek assistance from a trusted dentist specializing in professional whitening services. They can perform desensitizing treatments and monitor the teeth whitening process. This will help prevent teeth whitening methods from damaging tooth enamel or causing increased tooth sensitivity.

Want Whiter Teeth? Contact Us To Schedule Professional Teeth Whitening Services

If you’re unhappy with your stained or yellow teeth, Dr. Dalesandro & Associates can help you use the best whitening product to get your teeth whitened. Our Tucson dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants can provide proven teeth whitening methods to eliminate tooth stains and leave you with teeth that look significantly whiter.

Everything You Need to Know About Restorative Dentistry

Written by drdalesandro on February 10, 2021. Posted in Restorative, Cosmetic, Dental Costs, Dental Services.

Restorative Dentistry in Tucson with Dr. Dalesandro A statistic from FDI says nearly 60-90% of the school children and 100% of adults suffer from tooth decay and related oral health issues worldwide.

Dentists suggest an oral health check-up every six months followed by routine cleaning. But not everyone does that due to misplaced fear.

Restorative dentistry plays an integral part in your oral health. Hence it is crucial that you learn about it to help make an informed decision.

Our article takes you through everything you need to know about restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, treatment, procedures, and more.

What Does Restorative Mean in Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry aims at repairing and restoring your mouth to help the patients eat, speak and smile comfortably again. Rather than the cosmetic appeal, it is all about treatments aimed to improve their oral health.

What are Basic Restorative Dental Services?

Restorative Dentistry goes beyond a simple mouth cleaning or gum disease treatment. Here are the basic dentistry procedures your dentist would perform on you:

Treating decay and infection
Replace missing teeth
Filling

What is Considered Major Restorative Dental Work?

A major restorative dental work includes oral problems that you need multiple treatments to or phases to correct like:

Dental bridges
Inlays and Onlays
Crowns
Dentures

Apart from these, any basic treatments like tooth decay that has been ignored for a while would also be categorized as major.

How Much Does Restorative Dentistry Cost?

The cost for restorative dentistry treatment starts from the consultation period. The breakdown is as follows:

Consultation
Anesthesia fees
Procedure
Medication
Follow-up services

Depending on the above, the cost of dentistry procedures is as below:

Dental implants – $5,000 per tooth
Dental crowns – $500–$1,500 (metal), $800–$2,000 (ceramic)
Dental bridge- $500–$1,500 ( traditional)
Dentures – $3,000–$8,000 (traditional), $6,000–$30,000 (implant-supported)
Dental filling – $50–$150 (amalgam), $90–$250 (composite), $250–$4,500 (gold)
Root canal – $700–$1,000

Is Teeth Whitening Considered Restorative?

No! Teeth whitening focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth. Hence they are a cosmetic treatment.

What Is the Most Complex Dental Procedure?

A root canal is the most complex dental procedure. It is a long process (2 hours) and involves cleaning the damaged tissue inside out.

How Long Do Dental Restorations Last?

Your dental restorations can last for an extended period of time, provided that you pay proper attention to your teeth.

Dental crowns – 10-15 years
Dental bonding- 4-8 years
Porcelain veneers – 15-20 years
Composite resin fillings – 5- 7 years
Amalgam – 10-15 years
Dentures – 10 years

What Are the Common Dental Restorative Materials?

Dental restorative materials are those that are used for treating dental caries and filling tooth cavities. The materials used in traditional treatments include:

Amalgam
Alumina
Acrylic resins
Gold
Zirconia
Silicate cement

What Is the Best Material for Dental Implants?

A dental implant might be beneficial when replacing a missing tooth. The missing teeth might cause a shift in other teeth, causing severe bite issues.

The common materials are:

Titanium
Zirconia

Your dentist would be able to provide you with more information and help you choose the appropriate material.

What Is Included in Restorative Dental Care?

The goal of restorative care is to prevent oral health issues and bring back your natural smile. Fillings, crowns, implants, and bridges are the common restorative treatment options.

What Are the Types of Restoration?

Restorations include any complications arising due to broken, injured natural teeth. And as such, it can be of six types:

Fillings
Crowns
Bonding
Bridges
Implants
Veneers

What Is Considered a Dental Restoration?

A dental restoration is any procedure that restores the function, integrity, and morphology of your missing teeth. They handle any issues arising from decay, trauma, etc. as well.

Can Dentists Rebuild Teeth?

Yes! Your dentist can rebuild your teeth. The treatments may include one or more options depending on your situation:

Ceramic filling
Bonding
Root canal
Crowns
Dental Implants

What Is the Difference Between Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry specializes in enhancing and improving a patient’s smile, while restorative dentistry aims to restore the teeth to optimum working conditions.

What is Considered Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry refers to any work that improves the appearance of the patient’s smile and aesthetics. Typically, cosmetic dentistry includes the following procedures:

Adding dental material to the teeth
Removing any tooth structure or gum structure
Improving the appearance of teeth or gums
Straightening of teeth

What is the Best Cosmetic Dental Procedure?

Some of the most commonly used and preferred cosmetic dentistry procedures are:

Teeth whitening
Enamel Bonding
Veneers
Invisalign braces
Enamel abrasion

How Much Does Cosmetic Dental Work Cost?

Cosmetic dentistry improves the appearance of your smile through a variety of treatments. Here’s more information on the cost:

Teeth Whitening: $500
Veneers – $500-$1,300 per tooth
Bonding – $100 to $400 per tooth
Crown – $500 to $900 each
Inlays and Onlays – $650 to $1,200 per tooth
Implants – $1,250 to $3,000

Are Dentures Considered Cosmetic Dentistry?

No! Dentures are not considered cosmetic dentistry rather restorative dentistry.

Are Braces Restorative Dentistry?

No! Braces come under cosmetic dentistry. They play a dual role in improving the bite while also creating a beautiful smile.

Can a General Dentist do Cosmetic Dentistry?

A general dentist does a limited portion of the most common cosmetic procedures, including teeth whitening and bonding as a part of other treatments.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry a Specialty?

Cosmetic dentistry is not mainly considered a specialty. But it requires extensive study and years of extensive practice to become a cosmetic dentist.

American Dental Association doesn’t recognize cosmetic dentistry as a specialty. It instead falls under prosthodontics.

Is There Any Financial Help for Dental Work?

You can claim financial help via the top federally-funded programs:

Medicare: Health insurance for senior citizens 65 years or older or people with special disabilities. With Medicare, dental coverage is quite limited and does not cover even routine care.

Medicaid: Health insurance run by a state institution that provides medical benefits and a few dental benefits too. Most states offer only emergency dentistry services for people over 21 years while a few offer comprehensive services.

CHIP: CHIP offers health insurance for children under 19 years of age. They provide medical coverage and in some cases dental coverage too. But the services covered vary from state to state.

Conclusion

Restorative dentistry employs various procedures to keep your mouth healthy and at an optimum level of function. They not only do teeth restoration but also ensure that you have a beautiful smile.

If you do not think that makes a difference, you can always choose cosmetic dentistry. They can help you by employing braces if need be. Remember, your care doesn’t stop with your visit to the dentist. Make sure you follow his advice and watch for any issues that may arise.

It’s very important to schedule a meeting with your dentist every six months. Whatever type of dentistry you choose to go with, schedule your appointment with Dr. Dalesandro today. He has many years of experience in the field of restorative dentistry (as well as cosmetic and preventive).

Other timely articles you may find helpful are:

How Long Do Braces Stay On?

Written by drdalesandro on November 25, 2020. Posted in Cosmetic, Teeth & Gums Problems.

How long do braces stay on Whether large or small, odds are if you have gaps or misalignments in your teeth, you’ll need braces. They are a corrective dental device used to realign and posture your teeth in the proper order.

Braces address several common dental issues.

Several variables go into determining whether you need braces. There’s also a lot involved with deciding which ones are right for you.

People have a misconception that braces are for kids, but that’s not necessarily true. They are for anyone that needs help correcting the shape and outline of their teeth. Underbite, crooked teeth, and overbite are all conditions that they fix.

To learn more about understanding when you need braces and how to choose the correct setup, continue reading.

How long do people typically wear braces?

Before we get into the average length of time people need to wear braces, it’s essential to understand whether you need them in the first place. To determine if you need them, speak with your dentist to get a general checkup.

If a problem arises, your dentist is likely to recommend you to visit an orthodontist. When an orthodontist and an experienced dentist like Dr. Dalesandro together decide that they are the best solution, they’ll help you to determine which ones are right for you.

There are four primary types of braces available, as follows:

Metal – these attach to the front of your teeth and are made from premium stainless steel. They can sometimes be uncomfortable and may require dental wax for pain management.
Clear Ceramic – clear ceramic blend with the color of your teeth. People wear them like standard steel braces. They are less obtrusive but less durable than metal.
Invisible – clear and removable aligning trays work great for moderate spacing problems but are not ideal for major realignments.
Lingual – these attach to the back of your teeth, making them invisible from sight. They often achieve the same levels of success as conventional (buccal) braces, but they’re not ideal for certain types of alignment problems, such as an overbite.

After getting braces, regular checkups are required for maintenance purposes.

Click here to learn more about the best maintenance practices.

Each of these brace types corrects your teeth at varying speeds. The type you have will play an instrumental role in determining how long you need to wear them. Also, the condition of your teeth’s spacing determines how long you wear them. The average time people wear them is anywhere from 10 months to 3 years or more.

Check this write-up to learn more about the average time people wear braces.

Getting the most out of your braces

When wearing braces, it’s essential to avoid eating certain foods, since certain hard or gummy substances can actually ruin braces after regularly coming into contact with them.

You should avoid using chewing gum, or eating foods like pretzels, raw carrots, taffy, and popcorn. Doing so will help you maintain clean and functional braces that don’t need readjusting.

The cost of braces varies drastically based upon the type you get and how severe your mouth alignment problems are. Your dentist and orthodontist can get you an accurate estimate of how much they will cost.

Contact Dr. Dalesandro today!

To get started on your journey to a beautiful smile, contact Dr. Dalesandro to schedule a consultation. A healthier and happier you begins with a bright smile, and people will notice. Don’t waste another minute and reach out to Dr. Dalesandro today!

How Much Do Braces Cost?

Written by drdalesandro on May 14, 2020. Posted in Dental Costs, Cosmetic.

The price that you pay for your braces will depend on various factors such as how long you plan on wearing them, the type of material they’re made from, your oral condition, and more.

For young teens and some adults, getting braces can be a very exciting time in their lives due to the fact that a solution is being presented to long-standing oral issues. Before deciding to get braces, there are several tests that your dentist will put you through in order to determine the best corrective measures that your teeth need.

Let’s better understand how much do braces cost

Aside from making sure that you get the right fit for your braces, you also need to consider how much they cost. The price of braces varies depending on factors such as the level of correction your teeth need and how old you are.

There are plenty of other factors such as the length of treatment and the material of your chosen braces will also impact how much you pay. Below, we’re going to provide you with a detailed breakdown of how much you can expect to pay for your braces.

How much do braces cost for kids?
The average cost for a 1-year treatment using braces for young children is about $2,500. 2-4-year brace treatments for small children can cost anywhere from $5,000-$9,000. While these are some of the most common prices that people pay for braces, the cost can increase when re-alignment or bracket replacement is needed.

The type of material that your braces are made from will also play a huge factor in determining the price you pay. Take a look at the table below to see what you can expect to pay for braces made with certain materials.

Brace Material Types & General Prices:

Ceramic- $4,000-$8,000
Invisalign- $3,000-$8,000
Metal- $3,000-$6,000
Lingual- $8,000-$10,000

Aside from the price, each of these brace materials provides unique benefits depending on exactly the type of corrective measures your teeth need. Metal braces are the oldest type of braces and are widely available making them the most cost-effective.

Ceramic braces come in a wide range of different colors however they break easily and are prone to stains. Lingual braces are installed on the rear of your teeth to essentially hide the fact that you have braces. These types of braces are oftentimes the most expensive and time-consuming to install. Invisalign is an invisible brace alternative made from plastic molds that can be removed or inserted by you yourself.

Invisalign is becoming a popular option with many young people for obvious reason and it comes at a reasonable price. Consider the level of correction that your teeth need and how long you plan on wearing braces before making a decision about which type is best for you.

How much do braces cost a month?

The exact price that you pay for your braces each month will vary depending on what portion of the bill your medical insurance covers. To get an accurate answer, you’ll need to speak with your doctor to inform them about how long you plan on keeping the braces in and the specific type of braces that you want.

Once you are able to sit down with your dentist to discuss these details, you will be able to get a clear picture of what you can expect to pay each month for braces. The length of time that you wear your braces will be one of the biggest factors you’ll need to consider when determining the monthly cost.

There are always deals going on for braces that need to be installed in small children or young adults so don’t worry about the price as so much getting the right fit.

People Also Ask

Can you get braces for free?

Yes, you can get braces for free but only through certain programs like CHIP grants or through Medicaid. Qualifying factors will vary based on your location so speak with your primary dentist to learn more

What’s the cheapest price for braces?

The cheapest price for braces is around $5,000-$6,000 however this is a barebone estimate. If you need braces and want to get the absolutely cheapest price you can, speak with your dentist to see what kind of deals or specials they are offering

How long do braces last?

Braces can typically last about 18 months to up to two years all depending on the material that they are made from and how well you take care of them. As long as you follow all of the rules outlined by your dentist, you should have no problems. If you have any more questions regarding, How much do braces cost, contact Dr. Dalesandro today.

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What Are Dental Veneers?

Written by drdalesandro on March 10, 2020. Posted in Dental Veneers, Cosmetic.

Veneers are porcelain or resin covers that are attached to the front of your teeth to correct issues like chipped teeth, gaps, discoloration, and misshapen teeth and give you a smile you can be proud of.

What are the benefits of getting veneers?

Veneers are an artificial cover that is attached to the front of your tooth to correct any abnormalities and leave you with a beautiful smile. Veneers are an excellent solution to anyone dealing with chipped teeth, a gap between their teeth, extreme discoloration that cannot be fixed with whitening, unusually small or pointed teeth and more.

What are veneers made of?

Veneers are usually made of porcelain or resin composite materials. When you’re ready to meet with your dentist and get your custom made veneers, you’ll want to know the benefits of the porcelain veneers versus resin veneers so you can make the best selection for your lifestyle.

Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

Removes less enamel than cap and crowns
Natural-looking color and texture
Stain-resistant
Long-lasting
Thin Shell
Custom-fit
Strong

Benefits of Resin Veneers

Removes less enamel than caps, crowns, and porcelain veneers
A simple procedure that sometimes only required one visit
Less expensive than porcelain veneers
Easily repaired if damaged or broken
Custom-fit

What is the cost of veneers?

The cost of veneers varies greatly depending on the dentist that is providing them and what type of veneers you select. Veneers are not usually covered by insurance because they are a cosmetic procedure designed to cover up chipped teeth, gaps between your front teeth, and misshapen teeth. Traditional veneers can cost between $1,000 and $2,500 per tooth and last around 10 to 15 years.

What to expect when you get your veneers

The first step to getting your veneers includes a consultation with your dentist to figure out what issues you are experiencing with your teeth and what you would like your veneers to look like. With this information, your dentist can give you more information about the type of veneers that will best meet your needs.

Next, your dentist will take an impression or mold of your teeth so your custom-designed veneers will fit your teeth perfectly! The porcelain or resin veneers are made right on the mold of your teeth. Most dentists will even offer a wax-up model of your teeth so you can see what your results will look like before the treatment starts.

Some dentists will provide you with a temporary veneer to try out beforehand to make sure you like them and they fit properly before attaching the permanent veneers to your teeth.

When your veneers have been perfected, you will have an appointment with your dentist to have the veneers bonded to your teeth. At this appointment, your dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth before attaching the veneers. The bonding process is extremely secure and veneers cannot be removed after they are attached. They are attached to your teeth by applying a mild acidic solution to both your teeth and the veneers, creating a porous surface that can be bonded together with a translucent cement. At this time it is important to speak, smile and move your mouth around to make sure your veneers feel right in your mouth. Your dentist can make a few minor adjustments at this time.

How to protect your veneers

Although veneers are designed to be strong and give you a smile you can be proud of, it’s still important to take certain steps to protect your new veneers. After you get your veneers, our dentists suggest you protect them by:

Wearing a mouthguard when playing sports or other dangerous activities
Never using your veneers to rip open packaging or condiment packages
Not chewing on hard objects like your fingernails, pens, and ice
Using a retainer (custom-made nightguard) if you grind or clench your teeth at night
Brushing and flossing your teeth daily!

What type of dentist does veneers in Tucson?

You can get veneers from many different dentists all over Tucson. If you’re ready to be more confident in your smile with custom-fit veneers, call the office of Dr. Adam Dalesandro and Dr. Jeffrey Derickson for an appointment. From preventive dental care to new veneers, you can always count on getting the treatment you need at our dental office. Call us today at (520) 327-5993 for more information.