What’s the Difference Between Veneers and Lumineers?

If you have broken, misshapen, discolored, or otherwise imperfect teeth, there are a number of options available to you. Two top cosmetic choices available at Smile Designs 101 are dental veneers and Lumineers®. Although these two dental products are similar, there are some distinct differences. The good news is, regardless of which you choose, you’re guaranteed a more beautiful, confident smile!

Dental Veneer Basics 

Dental veneers are crafted from thin yet durable porcelain or a composite material. The veneers are placed directly over the patient’s natural teeth to conceal imperfections and give the appearance of a perfectly straight, white smile.

There is a little prep work involved with the placement of dental veneers. During the preparation process, the patient’s natural teeth are slightly modified to ensure the veneers fit properly. Tooth enamel is removed during this process, so it’s important to make sure veneers are a permanent choice. If the veneers are removed, the natural teeth are left unprotected.

About Lumineers®

A definite alternative to dental veneers are Lumineers®. They do have some similarities to veneers; for example, Lumineers® are placed over the natural teeth to provide a straighter, whiter, more uniform appearance. If it’s a Hollywood-worthy smile you’re after, either veneers or Lumineers® are an excellent choice.

Some patients prefer Lumineers® because natural teeth are not shaped or reduced prior to placement. That means if the Lumineers® are ever removed, the natural teeth underneath are intact and still have their original enamel. Lumineers® are even thinner than veneers, even though some patients report they look and feel a bit bulkier than traditional veneers once placed.

Which Option is Right for You? 

As you can see, there are advantages associated with both veneers and Lumineers® — because all patients are different, one is not necessarily the better choice. What works for one patient may not be the best option for another, which is why at Smile Designs 101, we take an individualized approach to dental care.

Achieve the Smile of Your Dreams 

Your smile is the first thing people notice about you. If you’re not as confident as you’d like to be about your teeth, we’re here to help. In addition to veneers and Lumineers®, Dr. Kasimatis and his staff also offer a wide range of dental services including cosmetic dentistry, preventative dentistry, and family dentistry. Call our Somerset dental office at 732-898-1146 today to make your appointment!

Signs You Need a Root Canal

Teeth pain can be caused by many things – gum disease, tooth decay and trauma. However, when the pain stems from an infection of the tooth’s root system, a root canal might be the best way to treat the problem and alleviate the pain.

How a Root Canal Alleviates Tooth Pain

A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected tooth pulp and tissue from a tooth’s root, the passages that contain nerves and nourishing blood vessels. As the pulp becomes infected and inflamed, it attacks the nerves and soft tissue, causing the tooth and surrounding mouth structure to decay.  

A root canal may be needed if you experience any of the following:

• Pain when eating, biting down or putting pressure on affected area.
• Significant sensitivity to heat and cold items, including heat packs and ice.
• Darkened tooth.
• Small bump, swelling and tenderness near the affected area.

The root canal procedure entails eliminating infected material within the root system of the tooth, including the threatened or damaged nerve. A crown is placed over the remaining tooth to protect it from further damage.

What to Expect

The first step is to assess the extent of the infection by using x-rays or digital imaging. During the first visit, patients are usually administered a local anesthetic to prevent any discomfort or pain. The tooth is cleaned of decay and infection through a small opening at the top of the tooth. A temporarily is used to protect the area until the crown is ready for delivery.

Until the root canal procedure is complete (final crown in place), it’s wise to avoid chewing on the tooth to prevent reinfection or further damage to the tooth by dislodging the temporary. In the days following there may be some sensitivity and tenderness which can be treated with over the counter pain medication. Most patients recover quickly and return to their daily routine the same day.

Somerset dentist, Kosmos Kasimatis will help save your tooth utilizing root canal therapy. If you have an infected tooth and want to avoid extraction, contact our office to schedule an appointment. Dr. Kasimatis’ conservative dental practices will save and protect your original teeth whenever possible.

The Beauty of Implant Dentistry

One of the most revolutionary developments in the world of cosmetic dentistry is the dental implant. For individuals with missing teeth, dental implants can make a dramatic difference in both appearance and oral health. Usually crafted from ultra-durable titanium, dental implants serve as artificial roots onto which single or multiple replacement teeth are anchored. Implants can also be used with removable dentures to add stability. At the Somerset office of Dr. Kosmas Kasimatis, we are experience with the placement and restoration of dental implants.

How are Dental Implants Placed?

In the past, it could take months for successful placement of dental implants. These days, implants can be placed in a single session thanks to high-tech keyhole surgery. What’s more, modern techniques for placing dental implants have less of an impact on soft tissue — meaning a faster, more comfortable recovery. Once the artificial roots are installed into the upper and/or lower jaw bone and the implant has been given time to fuse to the bone, the replacement teeth are attached.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants can change your smile — and your quality of life — for the better. There is an array of benefits associated with dental implants, including:

• Stronger jaw bone and more support for facial structure; no sunken appearance or premature wrinkles around the mouth due to missing teeth.
• Increased confidence
• Prevention of shifting teeth due to empty spaces 
• No messy adhesives required 
• Replacement teeth that look natural

While there is an aesthetic component to dental implants, that’s not the only reason to consider them. In addition to giving you a more beautiful smile, implants can actually save you time and money. The reason for this is because unlike other types of cosmetic dentistry, implants are easily restored without prep work and last for many years. Dental implants are an investment — not only in a better appearance but also greater confidence and improved oral health.

Schedule Your Appointment 

Don’t delay your dental health — call Smile Designs 101 at 732-898-1146 to make an appointment today. Our modern Somerset practice is equipped with the latest technology yet retains a warm, welcoming ambiance. In addition to dental implants, Dr. Kasimatis and his friendly staff also provide examinations, cleanings, and a range of other dental services. Because many people are anxious about dental procedures, Smile Designs 101 offers sedation dentistry to provide each patient with the most comfortable and relaxed experience possible.

What You Should Know About Bleeding Gums

Are you experiencing bleeding gums? Perhaps you’ve noticed bleeding after brushing or flossing. In many cases, bleeding gums are caused by gum disease. Too often, people focus on the health of their teeth but neglect their gum health. While no one wants to deal with the discomfort of bleeding gums, the good news is that proper dental care can often alleviate the problem.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. When plaque is left to accumulate on the teeth, it hardens into a substance known as tartar. Unfortunately, tartar buildup can’t be removed by brushing alone. Professional cleaning with dental tools is required to remove this harmful buildup. If the tartar is not removed, it may attack the gums. If left untreated, gum disease can progress even further, causing tissue infections in the gums that can cause tooth loss.

Gingivitis and Periodontitis

Gum disease in its early stage is called gingivitis. When detected early, this inflammatory condition can be successfully treated. However, if left untreated, gingivitis progresses into periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause tooth loss due to the degradation of bone and gums in the infected area. If you are experiencing red, swollen, and/or bleeding gums, it’s important to seek dental care as soon as possible to avoid further oral health problems.

Smile Designs 101 Can Help

When it comes to prevention and treatment of gum disease, the first step is to seek proper dental care. Dr. Kasimatis is highly experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease in all stages and will determine the treatment that’s most appropriate for your needs. Some patients can be successfully treated with non-invasive therapies like deep cleanings while others may require a surgical procedure.

These therapies are designed to clear away infection-causing bacteria and help protect gums and teeth. In addition to these therapies, you’ll be taught how to properly care for your teeth and gums at home. Dr. Kasimatis and his staff offer personalized treatment plans designed for the individual needs of each patient.

Smile Designs 101 is proud to serve patients from Somerset, NJ, and the surrounding areas. If you’re experiencing any signs of gum disease or need a dental checkup, we’re here to help you. Our office provides full-service dentistry for patients of all ages and can get you on the road to better oral health. Your bright smile is our priority, so don’t delay. Give us a call at 732-898-1146 and let us take care of your dental health needs. 

Inlays and Onlays

An alternative to large fillings and crowns, dental inlays and onlays offer a secure, customized and durable solution to restoring a damaged tooth. Inlays and onlays are used to cover a minimal to moderate damaged area on a single tooth. Also referred to as “indirect fillings”, inlays and onlays are usually made of hard, composite material custom fit to fill larger cavities, or significantly diminished tooth structure. The resin is long-lasting and looks natural. They are designed to match adjacent teeth and will restore dental function, including the integrity of the bite. 

What are Inlays?

Dental inlays are most similar to traditional fillings. An inlay fits inside the center of the tooth and securely seals the affected area, which minimizes any recurrence of decay. It can be made from various materials, including gold, porcelain and composite resin which all offer strength and durability. Customized to precisely follow the tooth’s natural shape, inlays help patients recover their dental function.

An inlay is considered a conservative approach to repairing a damaged tooth. The dentist will only remove what is necessary for improved oral health. This process will save you time and money and they typically last longer than traditional crowns.

Dental Onlays

Dental onlays cover a more extensive area of the tooth that will include one or more cusps and include the sides of the tooth. Onlays provide a protective cover for a larger section of the tooth without having to remove healthy portions. Treatment is very conservative and usually allows the dentist to save as much of the original tooth as possible.  

As with a dental inlay, an onlay is custom designed to fit the natural shape of the damaged tooth using a composite resin or a solid material such as gold or porcelain. Gold is often used for its strength and composite materials increasingly demonstrate they too can last for a long time and provide a comparable option.   

Advanced dental technologies have increased the longevity of onlays by providing the ability to create an exact replica of the missing dentition. The ideal fit returns a healthy bite with aesthetic looks.

If you would like to know more about inlays or onlays or learn about other conservative dental methods, contact Dr. Kosmas Kasimatis of Somerset, NJ.

Why Do I Grind My Teeth at Night?

When you get up each morning, do your teeth hurt? Is your jaw tender or sore? Do you frequently wake with a headache? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you are probably grinding your teeth while you sleep. This is a common ailment that many people deal with. But what causes it?

Teething grinding - or bruxism - is generally triggered by different problems such as stress and anxiety. However, there are other things that could be factors as well, including obstructive sleep apnea or problems associated with TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction). This is a disorder that affects breathing while sleeping. An abnormal bite or crooked teeth can also play a role in teeth grinding.

If you are on certain medications, such as antidepressants, you may also be more susceptible grinding your teeth at night. In addition, habits like drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes will often increase your risk as well. 

Can You Stop Teeth Grinding?

One of the best at-home methods to stop teeth grinding is by lowering your stress levels. Doing calming and relaxing things during the day, such as meditating or exercising, can help. Quitting smoking and cutting down on alcohol can be very effective too.  The best way to stop grinding your teeth is to see a professional.

Dental Treatment for Teeth Grinding

To prevent further damage to your teeth, your dentist will fit you to a custom mouth guard or dental appliance to be worn while you sleep. This appliance does not correct the source of the problem, but it will protect your teeth and stop the aggressive wear and tear associated with bruxism patients. 

Contact Dr. Kosmos Kasimatis, a Somerset dentist who treats patients for bruxism and other dental conditions. Schedule an appointment to find out more about stopping unnecessary wear and tear on your teeth.

Welcome To Our Blog

We're excited to announce the official launch of our Smile Designs 101 blog.

We'll be posting helpful dental tips, news from the dental industry, news from our practice, and more about the latest in dentistry.

We built our practice on the notion that we're there for our patients when they need us and we want our online presence to be a reflection of that principle. We hope this blog provides an extra level of service to our current and future patients.

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Here's to your best oral health ever!