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Considering Dental Veneers?

Posted: February 27, 2021

dental bonding in nashvilleWhat are Dental Veneers?

Tooth veneers are a solution that can improve smiles and self-esteem. They look like natural teeth and are custom-made thin coverings made from porcelain or composite resin material added to the outside of the tooth to improve appearance.

Types of Dental Veneers

The two most common types of veneers are:

Porcelain Veneers

These veneers are typically stronger and last longer than the composite resin version. They look natural, are custom-made to fit your teeth, and are usually more expensive.

Composite Resin Veneers

Composite resin veneers are made from a tooth-colored resin, are easily fixable if damaged, and generally cost less than their porcelain counterparts. Both types of veneers require some reshaping of the tooth or teeth before placing them. You should make an appointment to speak with your dentist about veneers and your unique needs.

Dental Veneer Procedure

The whole application process usually takes three dental appointments:
  • The first is an initial consultation to diagnose any issues and may come up during a treatment plan.
  • The second is for prepping the teeth by removing ½ a millimeter of enamel, then making an impression of the tooth that will receive the veneer.
  • The final visit includes the placement, and first, a dentist will temporarily place the veneer on the tooth to ensure the color and fit is correct, and make adjustments as needed. Once it is ready to go, a specialized cement is used to bond it to your tooth.

Dental Veneer Benefits

Why are dental veneers are worth getting?
  • They are tooth-colored to look natural
  • Do not stain easily
  • Less invasive than other dental restorative alternatives
  • Resist decay and cavities better than natural teeth
  • Enhance smiles which in turn improves self-esteem

Before you get Veneers

With veneers, you will need to have healthy teeth and gums before placement to ensure that no other issues arise. Dental veneers are not a good fix if you clench or grind your teeth, as that will reduce the lifespan of the veneers.

Contact Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Make an appointment to discuss  a treatment plan that is right for you.

615-371-8878

Location: (Tap to open in Google Maps)

105 Powell Ct Ste 101 Nashville, TN 37027

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, Prepless Veneers

Deciding on prepless dental veneers

Posted: January 30, 2021

Dental “prepless” veneers are very thin layers of porcelain or other ceramic material that can easily be affixed to the surface of teeth. At the Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells at 615-371-8878, we can educate you on what they are and if you’re a good candidate for this type of cosmetic solution. The term means that these veneers generally require very little if any, preparation to existing teeth structure before placement. They are intended to strengthen teeth while improving their appearance. Additionally, they can be used to change the color, size, or shape of the teeth. Like the traditional porcelain veneers, they are manufactured by a licensed dental technician. When to use veneers Veneers may be suggested as a solution if your teeth are:

  • Stained
  • Spaced unusually
  • Damaged
  • Worn down

When not to use veneers A dentist may rule out veneers if a patient’s teeth are severely worn or broken, leaving not enough surface area to support the veneers. Also, if teeth are very misaligned, such as crowded or widely spaced, it is likely that orthodontic treatment will be needed before they can be veneered. Prepless vs. traditional veneers Veneers always need a strong tooth enamel to attach to, for the best long-term strength and durability. In addition, adequate space for the veneer material is needed, so treated teeth do not look too bulky afterward. Also, these veneers must fulfill specific criteria if they are to be used, outlined below.

  • Teeth should ideally be slightly tilted inward.
  • Tooth staining cannot be so severe that the porcelain cannot cover it.
  • Teeth need to be shaped or spaced to allow enough distance between them.
  • They need enough biting surface on the teeth for strength and aesthetics.

Considering these requirements, the majority of teeth need at least minimal preparation to arrive at a good cosmetic and durable result. It’s also important to have a clear line along the gum line, as this makes it easier to keep your new smile clean and prevents additional staining and irritation to the gums.

Contact Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Make an appointment to discuss  a treatment plan that is right for you.

615-371-8878

Location: (Tap to open in Google Maps)

105 Powell Ct Ste 101 Nashville, TN 37027

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, Prepless Veneers

Dental bridges vs implants

Posted: January 8, 2021

veneers in nashvilleStrength

Dental implants are generally more resistant than bridges, providing better protection over time. The metal screw portion of an implant is mostly made of titanium which fuses with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. Because they are made of such a strong metal, they are very resistant to decay and gum problems and can regularly last a lifetime. The average life of a dental bridge, on the other hand, is about 10 years. Since part of your original tooth remains beneath it, normal wear and tear may cause a bridge to fail more often than implants. Furthermore, your remaining tooth structure continues to be susceptible to decay and gum disease.

Cosmetics

What about aesthetics? There isn’t always a simple answer, but your dentist will be able to advise you. Often an implant will provide the most visually pleasing result, as your dentist can make the final tooth look just like your natural enamel. Sometimes, an implant can be placed immediately after a tooth extraction, preserving the natural level of bone and improving the final appearance of the dental work.

Cost

While the upfront cost of a dental bridge is less, it may need to be replaced at some point in the future. Implants may seem more expensive at first, but over time can be more cost-effective. Nowadays, most dental insurance companies will pay a portion for most of the steps involved. Also, implant treatment can be more flexible over time, allowing patients to budget the cost in increments. After extraction, for example, a bone graft is sometimes needed. This graft typically has to heal for several months before implant placement, at which point osseointegration can take anywhere from three to six months before the process is complete. So, dental bridge vs. implant? Make this decision after consulting with your Dr. Wells. He knows your mouth best and has the tools and background to guide you through what’s best. Although bridges are a more traditional procedure, dental implants have become more mainstream over the years, and in most cases are the preferred treatment in time and expense.

Contact Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Make an appointment to discuss a treatment plan that is right for you.

615-371-8878

Location: (Tap to open in Google Maps)

105 Powell Ct Ste 101 Nashville, TN 37027

Posted in Aesthetic dentistry, Dental Bridges, Dental Implants

Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist

Posted: December 25, 2020

teeth whitening NashvilleWhat to Look for in a Cosmetic Dentist

 It is important to choose someone qualified and experienced to be qualified to deal with any complications that may arise, as they will be more will be better equipped to handle most situations. Also, cosmetic dentists who have performed many procedures will likely have more time to perfect their technique and results. Treatments like dental veneers and bonding require an artistic ability to produce the most attractive and natural-looking results. What are some of the things you should look for when evaluating a cosmetic dentistry practice?

Choosing the Best Possible Dentist

These suggestions can help you find a qualified cosmetic dentist:
  • Look for one who has received accreditation from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). This is an indication that the dentist has received the correct specialized training in the field of cosmetic dentistry.
  • Try to find a dentist who has made cosmetics a primary area of his or her practice.
  • After locating a dentist, learn about qualifications and experience by asking for this information directly.
  • To see what you can expect from their treatment, ask for before and after pictures of previous patients.

Looking for an Affordable Dentist

Although many patients looking for cosmetic dentistry try to find the most affordable dentist they can find, the popular saying “You get what you pay for” often holds true. Don’t entrust your appearance to a cheap dentist simply because he or she offers the most affordable pricing. Look for one who has the skill and experience to transform your smile and make a difference. The guidelines above can help you select a qualified doctor. One way treatment can be made affordable is through cosmetic dentistry financing. Dividing the cost of cosmetic dentistry into convenient monthly payments has enabled thousands of people to receive the treatment they need.

Contact Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Make an appointment to discuss  a treatment plan that is right for you.

615-371-8878

Location: (Tap to open in Google Maps)

105 Powell Ct Ste 101 Nashville, TN 37027

Posted in Aesthetic dentistry, Beautiful smiles, Cosmetic Dentistry

Choosing Porcelain Veneers

Posted: December 4, 2020

cosmetic dentistry porcelain veneers NashvilleWho is a good candidate for Veneers?

You need to be in good overall dental health to get porcelain veneers, therefore outstanding issues will need to be fixed first. An evaluation at Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells will examine your mouth, to make sure you don’t have hidden issues, like tooth decay, and they may also take X-rays, to ensure tooth strength. Some minor alignment problem is fine, but for more seriously crooked teeth, it’s likely you’ll need to get them straightened before you can go this route. Anyone who grinds their teeth at night should seriously consider getting a mouth guard, to prevent damage to their veneers. Tip: If you are not getting veneers on all your teeth, it’s a good idea to get your natural teeth whitened before you and your dentist choose the shade of your veneers. You’ll need touch-up whitening of your unveneered teeth every year or two, but this will help ensure that all your teeth match.

What are the Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers?

Pros 

  • Porcelain veneers are thought to be “permanent,” lasting about 15–20 years.
  • Veneers can make teeth look close to perfect. They can correct small gaps and alignment issues quicker than braces or clear aligners, and for that reason, they are sometimes referred to as “instant orthodontics.”
  • Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant.
  • They are translucent which makes them look similar to natural teeth.
  • Veneers are highly customizable, with many shades to choose from.
  • You can get veneers for as few or as many teeth as you need to create a brighter smile.
  • They can fix gums by making teeth more equal to the size of gums when you smile.

Cons

  • Likely a bit of your natural tooth enamel has to be filed down to fit the veneer, which means the process is irreversible. It can also increase tooth sensitivity.
  • Veneers can sometimes look too perfect. You may need some slight imperfections, to look more natural.
  • Porcelain veneers can hide a lot, but not major underlying issues.
  • If you grind your teeth at night, you’ll need to invest in a mouthguard after placement.
  • If veneers crack or chip, they can’t be repaired—they’ll need to be fully replaced.
  • Veneers cost quite a bit more than Invisalign + teeth whitening, but the results are much more dramatic result.

Contact Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Make an appointment to discuss porcelain tooth veneers and a treatment plan that is right for you.

615-371-8878

Location: (Tap to open in Google Maps)

105 Powell Ct Ste 101 Nashville, TN 37027

   

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, Prepless Veneers

Laser use in cosmetic dentistry

Posted: November 27, 2020

Cosmetic laser dentist Nashville TNDental lasers are finding their way into everyday clinical use even at Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Cosmetic dentists have known their advantages for years. They provide numerous advantages including the ability to shape, contour, and reestablish healthy gingiva with less bleeding; make final impressions the same time as treatment; decrease postoperative discomfort, and make healing predictable. Lasers will become the standard of care in cosmetic dentistry because of their advantages for the patient and clinician over steel blades and electrosurgery.

With the addition of erbium lasers, procedures can be performed on the hard tooth structures that enhance bond strengths and virtually eliminate the need for anesthesia, because they are less invasive and traumatic than high-speed drills. All of these advantages will add up to patient and clinician satisfaction, but time must be spent researching the right laser for the practice and training the doctor and team. Only then will these advantages add up to delivering the best dentistry has to offer.

One use of cosmetic and aesthetic laser dentistry is the treatment of gingiva. Gingival tissues frequently need to be changed due to inflammation, irregular contours, and other reasons. Dental crowns, veneers, or bonded restorations may be placed close to the gingiva, which can cause bleeding. Bleeding in the gingiva can make impression-making and bonding procedures impossible and healing unpredictable. In these cases, laser gingivoplasty can be used to develop a new gingival sulcus, control hemorrhaging, and provide esthetic gingival contours.

Contact Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Make an appointment to discuss laser cosmetic dentistry and a treatment plan that is right for you.

615-371-8878

Location: (Tap to open in Google Maps)

105 Powell Ct Ste 101 Nashville, TN 37027

 

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry, Laser Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

Do you Need Dental Bonding?

Posted: November 13, 2020

dental bonding in nashville tnWhat is bonding?

Tooth bonding is more straight forward than many other dental procedures at Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. It doesn’t even usually require anesthesia, unless filling a cavity, and you shouldn’t need multiple visits. To begin with, your dentist will reference a shade guide to pick the composite resin color that most closely your natural teeth. After roughening the surface of the tooth, a liquid is applied that allows the bonding agent to stick to the tooth. Your dentist then puts the composite resin over the liquid, molds and shapes it to match the tooth, and then hardens the material with ultraviolet light. If necessary, the tooth can be further shaped after the resin hardens.

Why get bonding? Tooth bonding can fix an imperfection within a tooth. Some people use bonding to repair a chipped or decayed tooth. This procedure can also close small gaps between teeth and correct discoloration. Tooth bonding can also change the size of a tooth, as when you have a tooth that’s shorter, and you want them all to be the same length. Bonding is a fast procedure that doesn’t require any downtime. If you don’t need anesthesia, you can continue with your normal daily routine after the procedure. Typically, tooth bonding takes between 30 to 60 minutes. Some appointments may run longer depending on the complexity of the procedure.

Are there any risks? Dental bonding doesn’t have any major risks. But remember the composite resin used in bonding isn’t as strong as your natural teeth. It’s possible for the material to chip or separate from your real tooth. Chipping or breaking, however, doesn’t occur as often with a crown, veneer, or filling. A bonded tooth might chip if you eat ice, chew on hard items, or bite your fingernails. The resin also isn’t as stain-resistant as other dental materials. You may develop some discoloration if you smoke or drink a lot of coffee.

Contact Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Make an appointment to discuss dental bonding and a treatment plan that is right for you.

615-371-8878

Location: (Tap to open in Google Maps)

105 Powell Ct Ste 101 Nashville, TN 37027

 

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry, Customized smiles, Dental Bonding

Porcelain Tooth Crown Advantages

Posted: October 28, 2020

Porcelain tooth crowns are commonly used in cosmetic dentistry, and Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells can provide you with the answers you need. Dentists use them to put a final “crown” on a tooth or dental implant, and they bond them with dental cement for a secure, and long-lasting fit. Dental crowns are an excellent choice to treat broken teeth or those with large cavities. They can also be helpful to fix issues such as uneven teeth and discoloration. Older materials used to make tooth crowns have included silver, gold, platinum, and tin, but today porcelain is the top choice for its durability and appearance.

Porcelain advantages

Although metal crowns are still an option in many dental offices, porcelain crowns have advantages over metal. Some of these include:

  • Appearance – Porcelain crowns are tooth-colored and blend in almost invisibly with natural teeth. Their more natural appearance is extremely helpful for patients who require dental work in the front of their mouths.
  • Natural – Along with appearance, porcelain dental crowns also feel more natural than other options. A dentist can custom-design crowns to fit the shape and appearance of a patient’s natural teeth.
  • Durability –Porcelain crowns are nearly as strong as natural tooth enamel, which is one of the hardest materials on the human body and they can withstand years of wear.

Porcelain crowns have many more advantages over the metal versions, in feel, form, and function and are one of the best choices for repairing certain dental issues. Patients will no longer need to feel embarrassed by their smile due to metal crowns, decay, or missing teeth when a dental professional uses porcelain crowns as a dental treatment. If you have minor cosmetic dental issues, it’s time to consult a dentist about restoring your smile with porcelain crowns.

Contact Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Make an appointment to discuss the porcelain tooth crowns and a treatment plan that is right for you.

615-371-8878

Location: (Tap to open in Google Maps)

105 Powell Ct Ste 101 Nashville, TN 37027

 

Posted in Aesthetic dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns

Porcelain Veneers vs Prepless Veneers

Posted: October 2, 2020
Dental veneers in Nashville

 

Background on tooth veneers

As you look into tooth veneers, there are some things you should know, and Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells can provide you with the answers you need. The total cost of veneers is varies depending on your chosen dentist and how many of your teeth you’d like to veneer. Pose any questions you have to your dentist. It might be good to know how many veneers they have placed. Discuss your proposed goals with dental veneers. Information like this will help your dentist create the best treatment plan for you. If you have TMJ or clench and grind your teeth, ask your dentist whether a nightguard will protect super-thin veneers from chips or breaks.

Porcelain dental veneers

A porcelain veneer is a tiny white shell., and each one is “made to order” for each tooth. You may choose porcelain veneers over resin because they are:
  • Stronger than resin
  • Less likely to stain
  • Look more natural
If you choose porcelain, here’s what to expect during the process:
  1. You will get a shot to numb your mouth to numb the pain.
  2. Your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the front and sides of your tooth before placing the veneers.
  3. The dentist will make a mold of your teeth requiring veneers.
  4. They may place a temporary veneer that you wear while you wait a few days for a lab to custom make your veneers.
  5. Once your veneers are ready, the dentist will place them on your teeth and check their fit and shape.
  6. She will remove each veneer, clean your tooth, and bond it to the tooth.

Composite resin prepless veneers 

Your dentist will make this type of veneer from the dental filling type of material and color-match it to your other teeth. You may want resin over porcelain because:
  • There is less enamel removed to place this type of veneer.
  • You can get them in one quick visit.
  • They cost less than porcelain veneers.
  • Repairs of damaged veneers are cheaper easier.
If you choose resin, here’s what to expect during the procedure:
  1. You will get a shot to numb your mouth, so you won’t feel pain.
  2. Your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the front and sides of your tooth.
  3. Your dentist will sculpt the resin onto your directly.
  4. A special light is pointed onto the teeth to harden and bond it to your tooth.
  5. Finally, the veneers are smoothed and polished.
Let your dentist know if your bite feels funny at all since it be will correct before you leave.

Contact Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Make an appointment to discuss the various tooth veneer options and which is right for you.

615-371-8878

Location: (Tap to open in Google Maps)

105 Powell Ct Ste 101 Nashville, TN 37027

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, Prepless Veneers

Laser Dentistry in Nashville

Posted: September 18, 2020
laser dentistry NashvilleNashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells currently offers laser dentistry for some cosmetic procedures. Lasers have been used by dentists for decades to treat a number of issues. Although FDA approved, laser systems have not received the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance as an alternative treatment. The ADA seal ensures to dentists that a laser device meets their standards of safety efficiency. The ADA, however, states that it is cautiously optimistic. Still, many dentists are using lasers to treat:
  • Can be used to remove decay within a tooth and prep surrounding enamel for placing of a filling.
  • They are used to reshape gums and remove bacteria during root canal procedures.
  • They can be used to extract a biopsy for testing, and to remove lesions in the mouth.
  • Lasers are obviously great for in-office teeth whitening procedures. Peroxide bleaching solution can be activated and enhanced by laser energy, speeding up the process.
How Do Lasers Work in Dentistry? All dental lasers deliver energy via light waves. They can act as a cutting instrument or vaporize tissue. And when used for teeth-whitening they act as a heat source to enhance the effect of bleaching agents. What Are the Pros and Cons? Pros Dental lasers:
  • May cause less pain so less need for anesthesia
  • Can reduce anxiety in patients who do not like drills
  • They can help minimize bleeding in soft tissue operations
  • They can help preserve healthy teeth during cavity removal
Cons Disadvantages are:
  • Cannot be used on teeth with existing fillings.
  • Cannot be used in many commonly performed dental procedures including some cavities, old fillings, or preparation for a crown.
  • Standard drills may still be needed to shape fillings, adjust, and polish teeth.
  • Lasers do not completely eliminate the need for anesthesia.
  • Laser treatment tends to be more expensive, and the cost of the laser can be much higher than a dental drill.

Contact Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Dr. Dennis Wells. Make an appointment to determine if laser dentistry is right for you.

615-371-8878

Location: (Tap to open in Google Maps)

105 Powell Ct Ste 101 Nashville, TN 37027

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry, Laser Dentistry, Teeth Whitening
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    Dr. Wells has been an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry since 1994, and serves on the review board as an examiner for other dentists seeking their cosmetic dentistry accreditation.

    aesthetic dentistry with a Nashville dentist in Brentwood TN

    Award Winning Dentistry award for cosmetic dentistry in Nashville Tennessee and Brentwood
    • Nashville Top Dentist 2017 in Cosmetic Dentistry
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    Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry
    Dennis J. Wells, DDS
    Daniel K. Weese, DMD
    105 Powell Ct Ste 101
    Brentwood, TN 37027
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