Do I Need New Crowns Replaced to Stop My Teeth from Chattering?
I chipped both front teeth as a young teenager. At the time, my dentist filled the chips with dental bonding. I’ve had the bonding replaced several times throughout my life. At 52, my current dentist recommended replacing the bonding with dental crowns. I regret accepting that recommendation. I have six crowns on my upper front teeth. My bite is off, and my teeth chatter. Maybe my anxiety is making it worse. I’ve returned to the dentist multiple times, and she referred me to a periodontist who confirmed that my gums are healthy. Do I need to see another dentist for bite adjustments? Could I need new crowns? Thanks. Emiko from San Diego
Emiko,
Your anxiety is understandable. We can’t say whether you would need new crowns without an exam and X-rays. However, we have several concerns and suggestions on how to proceed.
Replacing successful composite bonding with six crowns seems like an overly aggressive approach. A more conservative solution, such as replacing the bonding, might have been sufficient. Referring you to a gum specialist seems irrelevant to your bite problem. A dentist specializing in occlusion can address the bite concerns.
This raises questions about the dentist’s judgment and ethical considerations.
Meticulous attention to occlusion is crucial when performing multiple crown procedures, especially on anterior teeth. This includes ensuring proper centric occlusion, anterior guidance, and canine protection. Any deviation from these principles can lead to long-term dental problems, including the issues you are experiencing with your bite.
Your post-treatment symptoms, including dry mouth, burning sensations, and an urge to clench your teeth, are concerning. The most significant red flag is the bite issue. A well-executed crown procedure gives you a natural and comfortable bite. However, your description of an awkward bite and the desire to clench your teeth suggests potential problems with the occlusion.
Get a Second Opinion from a Qualified Dentist
Given the situation’s complexity, we recommend seeking a second opinion from a dentist with advanced training in occlusion. Dentists who have graduated from institutions like the Pankey Institute, Dawson Academy, Spear Education Center, or the Las Vegas Institute possess the necessary expertise to diagnose and treat complex occlusal issues.
Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, sponsors this post. Read why his patients think he is the best dentist in Rocky Hill.
How Can I Even My Teeth Edges After Braces?
My orthodontist will remove my braces in December, but my teeth edges are jagged. I don’t like the unevenness. Will I need porcelain veneers? Thanks. Jada from Austin, TX
Jada,
An expert cosmetic dentist can effectively smooth jagged tooth edges using cosmetic bonding, cosmetic contouring (enameloplasty), or combining both techniques.
How Can Cosmetic Bonding Smooth Teeth Edges?
Cosmetic bonding involves applying a dental composite material to your teeth to enhance their shape and color. This technique is less invasive than porcelain veneers. The composite material is meticulously blended to match the shade and translucency of your natural teeth. A skilled cosmetic dentist applies and hardens composite layers to smooth out jagged edges, resembling the artistry of a painter.
The cosmetic bonding process typically includes the following steps:
- Acid etching: This step prepares the tooth enamel for the bonding agent.
- Bonding agent application: A bonding agent creates a strong bond between the composite and the tooth.
- Composite application: Layers of cosmetic bonding material fill in the affected area.
- Curing: A curing light hardens each layer before applying the next.
- Shaping: The composite is shaped to match the desired contour.
- Polishing: The final step involves polishing the composite to achieve a smooth, natural finish.
Can Enameloplasty Smooth Teeth Edges?
Enameloplasty, or cosmetic contouring, reshapes tooth enamel to correct irregularities. After reshaping the teeth, the dentist polishes them to ensure a smooth appearance. A skilled cosmetic dentist understands how to alter the shape of your teeth without affecting your bite (the way your upper and lower teeth fit together). In some cases, composite may be used to finish the sides of the teeth.
The enameloplasty process typically involves:
- Enamel removal: A dental burr or sand disc is used to remove excess enamel.
- Shaping and contouring: The teeth are sculpted to the desired shape.
- Polishing: The teeth are polished to a smooth finish.
Scheduling a Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation
A cosmetic dentist can explain cosmetic bonding and enameloplasty procedures and the expected outcomes. Porcelain veneers are generally not necessary unless your teeth are severely damaged or stained beyond the reach of teeth whitening. Consult a qualified cosmetic dentist to discuss your needs and explore the best options for correcting jagged tooth edges.
Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist sponsors this post.
Will Dental Bonding Help Fluorosis Stains on My 5th Grader’s Teeth?
My daughter just finished fourth grade. Now that it’s summer, I want to do something about the fluorosis stains on her teeth. Her bottom front teeth are pretty yellow, and her upper front teeth are blotchy. Her left front tooth has a jagged side. My daughter is wearing braces but is so self-conscious about her smile. The braces bring attention to her teeth, and the discoloration is noticeable. What are our options? Our pediatric dentist recommended waiting until my daughter is a teenager, but I don’t think that’s wise for her self-image. Will dental bonding help fluorosis stains on my 5th grader’s teeth?
Thanks. Daneen from TX
Daneen,
A cosmetic dentist can conceal fluorosis stains. However, the treatment recommendation varies depending on stain severity. Concealing fluorosis stains requires advanced training and technical and artistic ability. Most general and family dentists lack the training needed to produce natural-looking results.
What Causes Fluorosis Stains?
Factors that can cause fluorosis stains include community drinking water with too much fluoride, untreated well water, or consuming too many fluoride supplements. Swallowing too much fluoride toothpaste can also cause tooth stains.
How Are Fluorosis Stains Treated?
A cosmetic dentist treats fluorosis stains based on their severity.
Mild stains
Mild fluorosis creates white teeth stains. A skilled cosmetic dentist can apply dental composite to conceal the spots.
Extensive stains
Extensive stains require porcelain veneers. A skilled cosmetic dentist will design veneers that mimic natural tooth color, shade, and translucency.
Discoloration
Yellow teeth stains without blotches may not be fluorosis. However, a dentist can determine the cause of the stains. A cosmetic dentist may bleach the teeth before recommending dental bonding or porcelain veneers.
Orthodontic Treatment and Fluorosis Stains
A cosmetic dentist will recommend when and how to treat your daughter’s fluorosis stains while in orthodontic treatment. Schedule a consultation with a dentist who enjoys treating children and has advanced cosmetic dentistry training.
Rocky Hill, Connecticut, dentist Dr. Thaddeus Michalski sponsors this post. Read how he provides some of the best dental care in Rocky Hill.
Which Crowns Can Hide a Dark Front Tooth?
The porcelain fused to metal crowns on my center front teeth are 20 years old and look like it. I love to smile and want to know the best crown types. One tooth is dark from a root canal. What crowns should I ask for? Thanks. TJ
TJ
Cosmetic dentists use all-ceramic crowns to produce beautiful results that even a trained specialist can’t distinguish from natural teeth. Any all-ceramic option will withstand the forces of biting with your front teeth. Your choice of a cosmetic dentist is more important than the crown selection. Look for a dentist with keen artistic ability and allow them to choose ceramic crowns. Advanced cosmetic dentists collaborate with a master ceramist who knows dental materials and can recommend a crown type based on your surrounding teeth and the condition of the teeth beneath the crowns.
How Can a Crown Conceal a Dark Front Tooth?
A cosmetic dentist will prepare a dark tooth for a crown by masking the color with an opaquer. Options for blocking out the dark color include:
- Applying a composite buildup material over the natural tooth before placing the crown
- Asking a master ceramist to add an opaque layer in feldspathic porcelain, lithium disilicate, or zirconia crown to hide the dark tooth. Zirconia and lithium disilicate may require a thin layer of feldspathic porcelain on the surface to look natural
- Selecting e.max crowns, which have a lithium disilicate core, and applying feldspathic porcelain over the crown
Instead of choosing a crown type and asking a dentist to use it, look for an expert cosmetic dentist. Their advanced training will help them select a crown for your needs and conceal the dark took. Selecting the crown first without knowing a dentist’s credentials can yield unattractive crowns for your front teeth. Schedule consultations with two expert cosmetic dentists to discuss options for natural-looking results with crowns on front teeth.
Rocky Hill cosmetic dentist Dr. Thaddeus Michalski sponsors this post.
Give yourself the gift of a Rocky Hill smile makeover
Does your smile look tired and old? Refresh it for the holidays with a Rocky Hill smile makeover by cosmetic dentist, Thaddeus S. Michalski DMD.
Holiday events are fast approaching, and you worry about the appearance of your smile. Your teeth and gums are healthy, but what about those tobacco stains and chips? A Rocky Hill smile makeover from Thaddeus S. Michalski DMD can change your dull smile to bright and dazzling in just a few short visits. (more…)
The Dentist Rocky Hill, CT, Trusts Provides Comprehensive Dental Care
Are you in the market for a professional, experienced and caring dentist in the 06067 area? Then look no further. Dr. Thaddeus Michalski is the general and family dentist who also specializes in cosmetic and implant dentistry that people from Rocky Hill and all over the surrounding area rely on for everything they need for their dental care. Dr. Michalski and his team of dental assistants and dental hygienists treat each and every patient individually and with the kindness and gentleness they want for themselves and their own families.
(more…)
Your Rocky Hill, CT dentist, Thaddeus S. Michalski, gets smiles ready for summertime
Rocky Hill, CT cosmetic dentist, Thaddeus S. Michalski, focuses on the oral health and well-being of each of his patients. When preventive, restorative and cosmetic dental services blend to achieve a perfectly healthy and good-looking smile, makeover goals are fully met and Dr. Michalski couldn’t be more pleased. In fact, his extensive training and experience all aim for great smiles that last a lifetime.
Are you ready for your Rock Hill, CT smile makeover?
You can be if you visit Dr. Thaddeus S. Michalski and his talented staff. Dr. MIchalski possesses the finest technical skill and artistry in the field of dentistry. His college, dental school and continuing education background reinforce his understanding that a smile makeover starts with healthy teeth and gums. So, when an individual seeks his help in changing how his or her smile looks, Dr. MIchalski begins with the basics.
Dr. MIchalski performs a routine oral exam on each patient who comes through his doors. The check-up includes:
- digital x-rays and other imaging as warranted
- visual inspection of the mouth to check for cavities, bite and alignment, gum disease and oral cancer
- periodontal probing to assess gum health
Dr. Michalski writes a treatment plan to include necessary procedures to bring the mouth to complete health. That being done, he and the patient discuss aesthetic goals for a renewed, confident smile.
A healthy smile can look as good as it feels
Your summer smile makeover may involve several cosmetic dental services, depending on the aesthetic goals you and your Rocky Hill cosmetic dentist wish to achieve. Services include the finest materials, excellent craftsmanship and precision aesthetics. Art and science combine for the final product–your new smile!
Porcelain veneers are super-thin, tooth-shaped porcelain covers. They mask tooth imperfections such as dark discolorations, cracks, odd contours and chips Utilizing conventional veneers which require etching of the tooth surface or “no-prep” Lumineers, Dr. Michalski customizes an even, white smile that lasts for years with good hygiene and dental care.
Often combined with veneers, at-home teeth whitening safely brightens dingy teeth to a dazzling 8 shades whiter. Applied with custom-made trays, professional grade whitening gels power out stains over the course of 2 weeks in the privacy of the patient’s home.
In addition, Dr. Michalski changes the look of one or more teeth with composite resin bonding. This simple, quick improvement smoothes imperfections such as chips, gaps and crowding for a look that’s natural–only better. Dr. MIchalsky often combines bonding with gum recontouring, a quick, safe treatment which removes excess gum tissue to expose more healthy enamel.
Invisalign clear braces correct bite and alignment issues using invisible custom aligners designed to move teeth into better positions. Taking 9 to 15 months to complete, an Invisalign smile avoids the hygiene and aesthetic issues of traditional orthodontic treatment while making crooked teeth over into straight, stunning smiles. Start Invisalign now in the summer, and be ready for that graduation or wedding next year!
Does a summer smile makeover in Rock Hill sound right to you?
Contact the offices of Thaddeus S. Michalski for a smile consultation appointment. Bring your questions, concerns and goals so you and this great cosmetic dentist can decide on the treatments just perfect for you.
Your Rocky Hill Dentist has a New and Improved Website
At the dental practice of Dr. Thaddeus S. Michalski, we are committed to providing the latest technology, best care, and most convenient access for our patients. As part of our continuing development, you may have noticed we made a few changes to our website. These changes were made with you in mind. We know you have your choice of dental practices in the Rocky Hill, CT area, and we want you to know you’ve chosen the most skilled dental practice that works to fit your schedule and lifestyle. Thank you for your interest in our practice, and for supporting the work we do to put a smile on your face. Call today to schedule an appointment, or find out more about Dr. Michalski’s dental practice.
General Dentistry with a Smile for the Whole Family
We’ve been dedicated to providing you with the most welcoming, comfortable family dentistry experience for years. We’ve always stood out as the leader in dental technology and procedure innovations, and we are at the forefront of “green” dental care. Our office works to conserve energy and water whenever possible, but we’ve invested in the future with renewable energy sources. We use solar panels to produce more than half of our electricity significantly reducing the amount of energy we consume. Our water, heating and air conditioning systems are maintained using three heat pumps that cycle water through wells. This process is known as geo thermal exchange. We are able to use the consistent ground temperature to heat and cool our office, and heat given off by the pumps is used to heat our water.
Additionally, Dr. Michalski commits hours each year to continuing education in numerous areas of general dentistry. Our office is committed to having pure air and reducing toxins so that you and your whole family know you can breathe easy. In everything we do, our practice goes above and beyond to give you the best care. Our website is no exception. Our 2015 website revamp looks great, and reflects our philosophy to offer our patients superior service by helping them meat their dental health care goals in their budget, on their schedule. Beyond the beauty of the new site, we’ve improved the function. Small changes can make a huge difference. We’ve added two links that will appear on every page: a link to request an appointment with us no matter what page you’re looking at, and the other link to the testimonials you’ve given so that new patients can learn more about what you’ve been telling us about our practice.
Restorative, Implant, Cosmetic and Sedation Dentistry
Our general dentistry practice serves the whole family, and offers a full range of dental care options. Our restorative dentistry options to return your smile to its natural strength and beauty, are the best in the area. Dr. Michalski’s dedication to you means that he continues to learn about innovations that can give you the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. We are proud to offer the Prettau Bridge. This restoration is a unique, implant supported bridge that will fully restore the form and function of your bite. We also offer numerous dental implants to meet all of your needs, and Dr. Michalski is truly an expert implantologist. He has earned fellowship and diplomat with the International Congress of Implantologists.
Cosmetic dentistry is still not recognized by the American Dental Association as a dental specialization, but that has stopped Dr. Michalski from honing his skills. He is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and maintains the most up-to-date knowledge of cosmetic dentistry innovations and treatments. Check out our cosmetic service pages, or call today for more information about how we can help you achieve the picture-perfect smile of your dreams.
Sedation dentistry or sleep dentistry is growing in popularity. More than 50% of Americans suffer from some level of dental anxiety, and oral conscious sedation can help. Dr. Michalski offers safe, relaxing sedation for patients with anxiety, strong gag reflexes, those who need extensive dental work, and many other reasons. If you’re interested in finding out more about sedation dentistry, check out our site, and call Dr. Michalski for a consultation.
Find Out More
We invite you to take a look at the great new look and all the cool features of our website update. Remember your comments and requests helped us plan our updates, and we always appreciate your feedback. If you want to find out more about any of our services, or schedule an appointment, call today. Dr. Michalski and his dedicated staff welcome patients from Rocky Hill, Cromwell, Newington, Wethersfield, Berlin, Hartford, and beyond.
Straighten Your Teeth without Braces: Invisalign in Rocky Hill, CT
If your teeth are crooked, crowded, oddly spaced, or otherwise improperly aligned, you understand what an impact the status of your smile can have on your daily life. For adults and teens seeking orthodontic treatment, the thought of spending years in traditional metal braces simply isn’t an appealing option. At the Rocky Hill, CT dental office of Dr. Thaddeus S. Michalski, individuals looking for an alternative to metal braces are invited to explore the possibilities afforded by Invisalign.
Benefits of Invisalign Clear Aligners
The most frequently cited advantage of Invisalign over regular braces is their appearance. The clear acrylic trays are virtually invisible when you smile, allowing you to show off your teeth even as they are gradually shifted into their proper positions. This is an especially attractive feature for polished professionals and image-conscious teens seeking a less conspicuous solution to crooked teeth. Invisalign is also capable of correcting open bites, crossbite, underbite, overbite, and gaps between teeth.
Aside from their obvious aesthetic appeal, Invisalign clear aligners are also exceptionally comfortable as compared to conventional braces. There are no metal wires or brackets to irritate the inner lining of the cheeks and lips, only smooth plastic that is custom-formed to the shape of your teeth. In addition, Invisalign trays are easily removed for eating and home hygiene. Dr. Michalski’s patients love the versatility and freedom of Invisalign as much as they do their clear composition.
Schedule Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation
Your journey toward straighter teeth and a more confident, attractive smile begins with a consultation at our Rocky Hill, CT dental office. Contact us today to schedule yours, and see what a difference Invisalign can make in your appearance, your oral health, and your life. We sincerely look forward to providing you with exceptional dental care in an environment that feels like home. Our family-friendly dental office warmly welcomes patients from Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Berlin, Hartford, Newington, Cromwell, and more.
The Picture-Perfect Smile You Deserve with Porcelain Veneers in Rocky Hill, CT
When you smile, do you feel confident in your appearance? Perhaps your teeth are cracked, crooked, or chipped, and you prefer to smile with your lips closed in photographs. If so, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans feel self-conscious about their teeth, choosing to hide their smiles rather than share them with the world. At the office of Thomas S. Michalski, DMD, men and women from Rocky Hill, CT are invited to explore their cosmetic dentistry options, including porcelain veneers.
Transforming Your Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry
Porcelain veneers are one of the most commonly utilized cosmetic dentistry treatments for patients seeking a completely revitalized smile. This is due, in large part, to their versatility and lifelike quality. Crafted of high-grade dental porcelain, veneers are made to look and feel like natural teeth. In fact, the tooth-colored porcelain used to create veneers even reflects light in the same way that tooth enamel does, ensuring a completely natural-looking and luminous smile.
Porcelain veneers are capable of correcting a wide variety of aesthetic flaws in as few as two visits to our Rocky Hill, CT cosmetic dentistry office. These include:
- Deep staining that does not respond well to teeth whitening efforts
- Gaps between teeth
- Unevenly spaced teeth or crowding
- Teeth that appear too small or misshapen
- Cracks, chips, and fractures
When bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth, porcelain veneers give your smile an instant makeover. You’ll love the improved sense of confidence that comes with the ability to smile openly and express yourself freely. A consultation with Dr. Michalski will help determine which cosmetic dentistry solution is ideal for you.
Schedule Your Visit Today
Have you often wished that your smile were whiter or that your teeth were straighter? Contact our office today to schedule your visit with Dr. Michalski and our experienced, caring team of dental professionals. We genuinely look forward to helping you achieve your aesthetic dentistry goals and the smile of your dreams. Conveniently located in Rocky Hill, CT, the dental office of Dr. Michalski is privileged to serve nearby communities in Cromwell, Newington, Wethersfield, Berlin, Hartford, and beyond.