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.

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.

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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I brush my teeth?
Does a root canal hurt?
What does an abscessed tooth feel like?
What would be considered a dental emergency?
Why are my teeth so bad even though I brush?
How long do dental implants take to heal?
Can gum disease cause cancer?
How Long Can a Cavity Wait to Get Filled?

What Are Dental Veneers?

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

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.

What Is the Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth?

Written by drdalesandro on March 2, 2020. Posted in Teeth Whitening, Cosmetic.

Let’s Discuss What is the Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth

If you are considering the best way to whiten your teeth, it’s important to factor in some variables. This includes what your budget is, the time frame you are wanting to achieve, how much effort and time you are willing to commit to adding this into your routine, and the type of stains you have. It’s important to take into consideration any restrictions you may have regarding your oral health as well. Options can range anywhere from professional treatments that come with a hefty price tag, to do-it-yourself and budget-friendly.

Professional Treatments can Offer the Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth

If you have grey or brown discoloration, oral health problems, dental restorations, or certain diseases you will need to discuss your teeth whitening options with a dentist. For the most dramatic and instantaneous results, it’s best to visit your local dentist’s office or teeth whitening clinic for a professional whitening treatment, which offers a higher concentration of active bleaching ingredients. The downside is that professional whitening can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,500 dollars per treatment. If that’s not quite in your budget, the good news is that over-the-counter teeth whitening products have come a long way, and the aesthetic results can
now rival those treatments administered by your doctor, as long as you don’t have any underlying conditions.

The Best Teeth Whitening Products to Use at Home

If you have yellow teeth due to stains from food, drink, or aging then you should be able to use at home devices or products to help restore your smile. There are three main options for teeth whitening at home: toothpaste, strips, and light devices. Pastes offer minimal whitening results, due to low levels of bleaching ingredients, which also means they have a low chance of permanently damaging your enamel. Strips and light devices provide more dramatic results since the whitening ingredients make full contact with teeth for longer periods of time.

Whitening toothpaste pastes typically contain mild abrasives like hydrated silica, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate to polish and remove surface stains, essentially getting the “whitening” effect by scraping off the stains. Whitening toothpaste can also possibly contain low concentrations of active hydrogen peroxide to bleach teeth, which will strengthen the whitening effect.

Whitening strips use a plastic strip, tray, or mold to apply the bleaching ingredient hydrogen peroxide directly to teeth. Each session lasts between 30 minutes to two hours, and you’ll need up to three weeks of repeated use for full results. If you want to make your teeth white fast, strips are one of the most effective over-the-counter teeth whiteners, as the active ingredient is left on teeth for an extended period of time. It’s important to ensure you are using high-quality products so that you are not causing damage to the teeth.

Whitening light devices work by applying a whitening agent directly to the teeth, then a blue LED light is held over them to increase and accelerate results. Like teeth whitening strips, light devices are very effective because of the amount of time the active ingredient makes full contact with your teeth.

The Best DIY Way to Whiten Your Teeth

Made popular by online resources, there are a ton of Do-It-Yourself options for whitening your teeth at home. There seem to be so many ways to whiten your teeth but do they all work? Are they all safe? Will some actually do more harm than good? When whitening your teeth at home, always keep a close eye on how you react and stop any treatment immediately if you notice sensitivity or pain. Generally, these are the safest way to effectively whiten your teeth at home:

Creating a Baking Soda paste to use as a toothpaste.
Oil Pulling to help whiten teeth and used as anti-bacterial for overall oral health.
Swishing with diluted Hydrogen Peroxide, but only minimally limited use as not to damage your enamel.
Apple Cider Vinegar is considered a natural cleaning product but should be used very sparingly and quickly as to not soften your teeth.
Practicing good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
Prevent stains from forming and limit your intake of staining food and drinks, such as red wine and coffee.

There is a surplus of other DIY “hacks” for whitening teeth, but can be more harm than good, due to the high level of acidity that is proven to permanently damage your enamel. With no real studies to show the effectiveness and safety, the following are not recommended and should be avoided:

Apple Cider Vinegar or Hydrogen Peroxide for long periods of time.
Fruit peels are not backed up by science to have any sort of whitening effect, although made famous by celebrities.
Activated Charcoal toothpaste has been proved to be too abrasive for teeth, especially for daily use.

What’s the best option for whitening sensitive teeth? If you have sensitive teeth, you’ll want to take some extra precautions before using at-home whitening products. It is recommended to see your dentist if you have sensitive teeth, as it may be a sign of dental problems. If your teeth are okay but you simply have sensitivity, your dentist can help with desensitizing treatments. Just ensure you are paying close attention to how your teeth react. If you experience sensitivity or if the edges of your teeth start to appear see-through, you should stop the whitening regimen immediately, so that permanent damage is not inflicted.

The Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth

For every Scenario, Good oral care, including regular brushing, flossing your teeth, and dental checkups and teeth cleanings will go a long way towards helping remove the surface stains. If you want to see significant results you’ll need to choose an option that really removes stains from the enamel on your teeth, such as in-chair treatments and whitening kits. Whitening toothpaste can also assist in helping you restore your smile and it is possible you can achieve desirable effects at-home by utilizing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. As long as you do not have any oral health risks, you can establish a tooth whitening regime based on your individual needs and your budget.