How do Dentists Whiten Teeth? Details on Tooth Whitening Methods

May 30, 2016

Filed under: Oral Health Topics,Teeth Whitening — islandcoast @ 8:00 pm

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Do you want to make the best impression at an upcoming party?
Do you just want to feel better about the appearance of your smile? If you’re looking for a hassle-free and safe way to whiten your smile.
You already know that whitening works, but do you know how? Stains on teeth can be classified in one of two ways: extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic stains appear on the surface of your teeth. Intrinsic stains live between the microcracks in your enamel and deep within your dentin (the layer of your tooth underneath your enamel).
Whitening toothpastes and mouth rinses may be able to remove some of the extrinsic stains on your teeth. But only teeth whitening agents can remove the stubborn extrinsic stains and the unsightly intrinsic stains that cause your teeth to look discolored.
Opalescence gels contain an active whitening ingredient that penetrates your enamel to get to discolored molecules. Oxygen molecules from the whitening agents react with the discolored molecules in your teeth, breaking the bonds that hold them together. The oxygen molecules spread, whitening the entire tooth. As a result, you are left with a brighter, whiter smile.

Tooth Bleaching Explained

Dental bleaching, also known as tooth whitening, is a common procedure in cosmetic dentistry. According to the FDA, whitening restores natural tooth color and bleaching whitens beyond the natural color. There are many methods available, such as brushing, bleaching strips, bleaching pen, bleaching gel, and laser bleaching. Teeth whitening has become the most requested procedure in cosmetic dentistry today. More than 100 million Americans whiten their teeth one way or another; spending an estimated $15 billion in 2010.
Bleaching methods use carbamide peroxide which reacts with water to form hydrogen peroxide. Carbamide peroxide has about a third of the strength of hydrogen peroxide. This means that a 15% solution of carbamide peroxide is the rough equivalent of a 5% solution of hydrogen peroxide. The peroxide oxidizing agent penetrates the porosities in the rod-like crystal structure of enamel and breaks down stain deposits in the dentin. Power bleaching uses light to accelerate the process of bleaching in a dental office. Another bleaching agent is 6-phthalimido peroxy hexanoic acid (PAP).
Tooth bleaching is not a modern invention. Ancient Romans, for example, used urine and goat milk in an attempt to make and keep their teeth whiter.

Professional Teeth Whitening

Our methods of professional teeth whitening are among the most successful and lauded home teeth whitening and in office teeth whitening in Naples. Island Coast Dentistry provides a safe, effectual, convenient, and cost-effective way to whiten your teeth and give you the flawless smile you were meant to have.
Your smile creates an immediate, subconscious, visual impact on people you meet. A brighter smile gives the impression of youth, vitality, radiant health, happiness, and warmth. Teeth whitening remains one of the most economical ways to enhance your smile.

Popularity of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening’s popularity is steadily increasing, and it is quickly becoming the most popular form of cosmetic dentistry on the market. Teeth whitening is gaining such momentum because there are so many benefits associated with this procedure. The most preferred method of whitening among patients is in-office whitening.
This method of whitening is performed in the office by our dentist. Most patients prefer in office teeth whitening because of the speed. In office teeth whitening is usually finished within one session, and in some cases it can even take less than an hour to complete. Many patients also choose in office teeth whitening because they have easy access to expert advice regarding the procedure and they are being monitored safely by a professional.

Take Home Teeth Whitening

As an alternative to in office teeth whitening, we also provide take home teeth whitening. In this case, the patient is given a series of trays, mouth pieces, and teeth whitening gel that they themselves can apply to their teeth whenever they choose, at their own convenience, and in the comfort of their own homes.
Opalescence take-home whitening gel is perfect for people who want a lot of options. With four different concentrations and three flavors, you can wear Opalescence for as little as 30 minutes per day—or even overnight! Dispensed only by a licensed dental professional, Opalescence take-home whitening gel allows you to get professional whitening results at your convenience in a safe, effective, and customized way!

  • Opalescence tooth whitening gel contains PF (potassium nitrate and fluoride). Potassium nitrate has been shown to help reduce sensitivity. Fluoride has been shown to help reduce caries and strengthen enamel. Together, they help to improve the overall health of the teeth.1-5
  • Formulated to prevent dehydration and shade relapse
  • Four concentrations for treatment flexibility
  • Three flavors: Mint, Melon, and Regular
  • Day or night wear

For a consultation with Dr. Skupny about Cosmetic Dentistry procedures call Island Coast Dentistry at (239) 261-5566 today!

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

May 9, 2016

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry,Oral Health Topics — islandcoast @ 8:07 pm

Your smile is your calling card to the world, inviting others to get to know you, opening the door to opportunities.
But when you have major problems with your teeth, it can have a negative effect on your self-esteem, making you lack confidence in yourself.
When you are faced with issues that affect the appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry provides you with a host of treatment options that can help you look and feel your best.

Treatments Tailored to Meet Your Needs

Your teeth are personal and any factors that affect their appearance will needed to be treated on an individual basis. Your solution could be as simple as professional whitening for stained teeth. The shape of your teeth can be enhanced through the use of veneers to create a smooth, flawless appearance.
Crowns, implants, and bridges are only a few of the alternatives that can fill the gaps created by missing teeth. If your teeth or bite is out of alignment, cosmetic dentistry can combine with orthodontics to create a straight, attractive smile. Regardless of what your problem is with your teeth, your dentist can offer you cosmetic options.

It’s More than Creating a More Appealing Smile

When you take care of cosmetic problems with your teeth, you will have a ripple effect that offers you many positive benefits.
Closing gaps, creating smooth surfaces, and restoring balance to your mouth will mean a healthier mouth. You can stave off deterioration and various health problems caused by health decay. Preserve the teeth you have for years to come through cosmetic dentistry.

Find Out How Island Coast Dentistry Can Help You

If cosmetic issues are affecting your smile, the team at Island Coast Dentistry can help. Through a comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Skupny can tailor a cosmetic treatment plan that is most effective for you and a beautiful, healthy smile can be yours.
Contact us today to learn more, or schedule a consultation online.

Ultimate Guide to Flossing and Cleaning Between Your Teeth

March 28, 2016

Filed under: Dental Care,Oral Health Topics — islandcoast @ 8:16 pm

We wanted to give you the most extensive, detailed guide of advanced flossing techniques – and tools available today for cleaning between your teeth.
Why? Because we consider cleaning between your teeth, the most important part of your daily oral care routine.
This article is chock full of ideas that you can use in your interdental plaque removal routine “aka flossing” — to start building a habit of good dental health.

Why is Cleaning Between Your Teeth Important?

Have you ever felt a slimy coating on the front of your teeth? That “fuzzy” feeling is bacteria building up on your teeth.
The “fuzz” is called plaque, and if you let it hang around for too long, it can damage your teeth and gums leading to drifting of your teeth and misalignment to your smile.
What can you do to stop plaque? Floss! Flossing removes about 40% of the work required to remove sticky bacteria, or plaque, from your teeth.

What is Plaque?

Plaque is forming on the tooth surface 24 hours a day. Plaque can cause things like stains on the teeth, and gum problems. Fighting plaque buildup on your teeth will be a life-long part of good dental care.
When plaque hardens it turns to tarter and then gum disease.
Gum disease can ruin the youthful aesthetics of your smile by eating away at gums and teeth.
The susceptibility to tartar buildup varies from person to person.

What Does Flossing Do?

Flossing helps remove particles and the plaque that collects between your teeth and gums. By breaking contact between two teeth, dental floss helps clean these hard-to-reach tooth surfaces. This lowers the likelihood of gum disease and tooth decay. Cleaning between teeth is essential to your daily oral hygiene routine.

Choosing the Right Floss

No matter what other teeth cleaning tools are on the market, we consider this numero uno when it comes to oral hygiene.
Levi Spear Parmly, a dentist from New Orleans, is credited with inventing the first form of dental floss. In 1819, he recommended running a waxen silk thread “through the interstices of the teeth, between their necks and the arches of the gum, to dislodge that irritating matter which no brush can remove and which is the real source of disease.”
Today, most floss is made of either nylon or Teflon, and both are effective for cleaning between your teeth. If you have larger spaces between your teeth or have gum recession can experience better results with a flat, wide dental tape.
If your teeth are close together, try a thin shred resistant floss.
The most important thing to is to choose a floss your are comfortable with using on a regular basis. Whether its mint flavored, waxed, not waxed or made of Gore-Tex.

Flossing Techniques and Tips

To receive maximum benefits from flossing, use the following proper technique:

  • Starting with about 18 inches of floss, wind most of the floss around each middle finger, leaving an inch or two of floss to work with
  • Holding the floss tautly between your thumbs and index fingers, slide it gently up-and-down between your teeth
  • Gently curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure you go beneath the gumline. Don’t force floss, as this can cut or bruise sensitive gum tissue
  • Use clean sections of floss as you move from tooth to tooth
  • To remove the floss, use the same back-and-forth motion to bring the floss up and away from the teeth

Other Interdental Cleaning Tools

#1: Floss Picks / Wands

Floss picks are used to hold the floss. While wands do not pinch fingers like regular floss can, using a wand may be awkward and can also make it difficult to floss along the gum line like with regular floss.

#2: Electric Water Flossers & Piks

Electric toothbrushes aren’t the only popular electric-powered dental gear. Electric flossers, also known as water flossers or oral irrigators, are a popular alternative to string flossing. They mix water and air and forces it from the tip of the device.

#3: Interdental Brushes

Interdental brushes serve as an alternative to flossing; they can be used daily and can be effective at interdental plaque removal. Many people prefer interdental brushes as they found them simpler to handle.

Additional Flossing Aids

#1: Floss Threaders

A threader is a simple, disposable tool sold in the dental care section of nearly every grocery and pharmacy. It is easy to use with any kind of floss. Its primary use is to help people with braces floss more effectively by pulling through the gap of the tooth.
How to Use a Floss Threader

  • Pull off 12 to 18 inches of your preferred dental floss.
  • Insert one end of the dental floss about five inches into the loop of the threader.
  • Pass the floss threader under or over any dental appliance such as braces, permanent retainer or bridge.
  • Remove the threader from the floss and floss gently back and forth and up and down into the gumline between the teeth.
  • Repeat the process.

What Time of the Day Should You Floss?

Since we concluded you should floss once a day, what time is the best? Most dentists recommend opting for after dinner, since you salivate less while sleeping. Since less saliva is present you have a higher chance of bacteria eating away at your teeth.
Anything you can do to prevent decay at night is your best bet.
So, how does your current routine compare with the ideal times to brush and floss your teeth? Share your thoughts in the comments section and let us know if you have any questions.

About Island Coast Dentistry

Island Coast Dentistry handles your oral health care from General Dentistry and Fillings to Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Bruxism Devices, Invisalign, and Veneers, Dr. Skupny is equipped to handle all your dental needs.
To help you understand your options, we’ve included descriptions of some of our leading oral health treatments on this page. Read our patient reviews on this page.

How Does a Sonicare Toothbrush Work?

February 24, 2016

Filed under: Brushing,Oral Health Topics — Tags: — islandcoast @ 3:52 pm

Have you heard of the Sonicare toothbrush and thought about purchasing one for yourself, but don’t know if it’s really worth it?  I bet your are wondering if it’s really worth the money and if it gives you a better clean than other tooth brushes.
At Island Coast Dentistry we choose to stock Sonicare products because we believe in their reliability and effectiveness at removing plaque and other debris from your teeth and gums. Having the best oral hygiene starts with the best brushing and flossing habits.
During your next visit make sure to ask Dr. Skupny or the staff if you could get more information.

How a Sonicare Toothbrush Works

Its ability to excel at brushing is because of two different mechanisms in the toothbrush – mechanical scrubbing and fluid dynamics.

About Mechanical Scrubbing

This is just like other kinds of toothbrushes, as most of the ability to get rid of plaque is how its brushes can scour your teeth. How effective it is usually depends on the toothbrush head’s amplitude (how far it travels, up and down, on every stroke) and how often it happens. Usually these types of toothbrushes are really efficient at scrubbing teeth.

About Fluid Dynamics

Thought fluid dynamics is only secondary to the scrubbing, it’s truly what makes the Sonicare toothbrush special.
Fluid dynamics refers to a process in which the vibrations of the bristles of the toothbrush agitate fluids (water and saliva) around the teeth of your mouth. The vibration so intense that it’s able to get rid of the dental plaque even more than with just the bristles of the brush.
Fluid dynamics says it does the following:

  • Uses “shear forces” and “pressure waves” to agitate around the teeth and gums
  • Tiny bubbles are created by the action of the brush that are propelled forcefully against the surface of the teeth.
  • Agitates the adhesive forces’ strength which bind the microorganisms to the surfaces of teeth and gums.

“Non-contact” Tooth Brushing

What does this mean? Well, to put it simply, the forces created by fluid dynamics are sometimes strong enough to dislodge the microorganisms out of their colonies and tooth surfaces.
There are studies which show that this may happen at as far as 4 millimeters from where the bristles are actually touching your tooth. This is just more than 1/8 of an inch.
When you think about how conventional brushing works and that it doesn’t have any non-contact effect at all, it’s really something to consider.
Is non-contact brushing effective?
Even though non-contact brushing is a great option, it’s essential to remember that it is not the best option. You still need the normal type of brushing that comes when the bristles touch the tooth. It’s not going to remove all of the plaque on your teeth.
However, this non-contact brushing can help a great deal with the places that are hard to reach with a regular toothbrush, since it surrounds your teeth and touches places that you can’t get to otherwise.

Conclusion

Should you think about buying a Sonicare toothbrush? You might want to consider it, if you are concerned about whether you are getting all the plaque from your teeth, you might want to try it and see what a difference it makes.
Just remember that simply because you are using the Sonicare toothbrush, you still need to use the bristles on your teeth. The fluid dynamics are not the only thing that you need for cleaning your teeth. They are going to help, but they are not going to do all of the work.

Improve Your Smile in Naples

Naples, Florida dentist Dr. Jeffrey Skupny uses a variety of dental services and techniques to provide the very best result for your individual circumstances.
His artistic abilities and experience with dentistry along with his use of the finest materials and products combine to create a healthy, natural looking, spectacular smile. Contact our Naples dental office in Collier County area today to learn more about the dental options available to you.
Isn’t it time to look younger and feel better? If you don’t like your smile, come see Dr. Jeffrey Skupny, conveniently located in Collier County, Florida.

Brush Up on Dental Care Basics

February 20, 2016

Filed under: Dental Care,Oral Health Topics — Tags: — islandcoast @ 1:52 am

Your smile depends on simple dental care habits, such as brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist annually.
The two-thirds of U.S. adults in 2013 who said they did visit the dentist at least once in the past 12 months is the same percentage as the one reported in 2008. Women are more likely than men to report visiting the dentist annually.
The American Dental Association recommends all adults visit their dentist regularly. Regular dental visits are important because they can help spot oral health problems early on when treatment is likely to be simpler and more affordable.

Brushing for Oral Health

Oral health begins with clean teeth – Keeping the area where your teeth meet your gums clean can prevent gum disease, while keeping your tooth surfaces clean can help you stave off cavities. Consider these brushing basics from the American Dental Association:
Brush your teeth at least twice a day – When you brush, don’t rush. Take enough time to do a thorough job.
Use the right oral hygiene products – Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably.
Practice good technique – Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle — aiming the bristles toward the area where your tooth meets your gum.
Keep your tooth brush clean – Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing. Store your toothbrush in an upright position, if possible, and allow it to air-dry until using it again.
Replace your toothbrush regularly – Invest in a new toothbrush or a replacement head for your electric or battery-operated toothbrush every three to four months — or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
Mouthwash – In addition to daily brushing and flossing, consider using an antimicrobial mouth rinse or a mouth rinse containing fluoride to promote oral health.

When to see Your Dentist

To prevent gum disease and spot other oral health problems early, schedule regular dental cleanings and exams. Remember, early detection and treatment of problems with your gums, teeth and mouth can help ensure a lifetime of good oral health.

About Island Coast Dentistry

Island Coast Dentistry handles your oral health care from General Dentistry and Fillings to Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Bruxism Devices, Invisalign, and Veneers. Dr. Skupny is equipped to handle all your dental needs for patients in Naples, Bonita Springs, Marco Island and Estero, FL.
To help you understand your options, we’ve included descriptions of some of our leading oral health treatments on this page. Read our patient review on this page.

How Invisalign Works + Other Teeth Straightening Facts

February 11, 2016

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry,Moving Teeth,Oral Health Topics — Tags: — islandcoast @ 1:33 pm

Whether you’re considering Invisalign or already in treatment, it’s important to understand how Invisalign works. Please use this blog post to find answers to common questions.
Then schedule an appointment with an experienced Invisalign provider to obtain details tailored to your specific needs.
What are aligners made of, and what do they look like?
The virtually invisible aligners, which are made of a thermoplastic material uniquely developed for the Invisalign treatment plan, look similar to teeth-whitening trays. A series of Invisalign aligners are custom-made for you, to move your teeth in the sequence determined by your doctor.
How do the aligners straighten teeth?
Over the course of treatment, you will be supplied with a series of aligners. Each aligner will make slight adjustments to tooth position, a process that is mapped out in advance by your doctor, specifically for your situation.
When the aligners are placed on the teeth, they cause the teeth to gradually shift from their current position. After approximately two weeks, you will begin using the next set of aligners, which will continue the teeth straightening process.
How will Invisalign effectively move my teeth?
Through the use of our patented thermoplastic design, Invisalign aligners move your teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force. The main difference is that Invisalign not only controls the force, but also the timing of the force application. During each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move. These movements are determined by your doctor as he or she maps out your unique Invisalign treatment plan.
What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible. No one may even notice that you’re wearing them, making Invisalign a seamless fit with your lifestyle. Invisalign aligners are removable. For the best results and a timely outcome, aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day.
However, unlike with braces, you have the flexibility to remove your aligners to eat and drink what you want during treatment. And you can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would, for fresh breath and good oral hygiene. There are no metal brackets or wires that could cause irritation to your mouth, an advantage over traditional braces.
Plus, since your office visits during treatment don’t involve metal or wire adjustments, you’ll likely spend less time in the doctor’s chair. Invisalign allows you to view your virtual results and treatment plan before you start so you can see how your straightened teeth will look when your treatment is complete. Instead of imagining how much better it can be, you’ll be able to see it for yourself.

What Is the Treatment Process?

How long will treatment take?
The length of treatment depends on the severity of your case and can only be determined by your doctor; however, the average case takes about 12 months for adults. The length of time necessary for a teen patient may vary and can be determined by your doctor.
How do I get started with Invisalign?
It’s simple — first take our Smile Assessment to see if Invisalign is right for you. Next make an appointment with an Invisalign Provider like Dr. Skupny.
For the best experience, take the time to find the “right” doctor, one whom you feel comfortable with, and who has experience treating cases like yours.
As with other important medical decisions, find the most experienced Invisalign-trained Provider near you. Make sure you trust your smile to an experienced doctor who uses the latest techniques.
Can I go to any dentist to be treated with Invisalign?
Dr. Skupnyt attended and completed specialized instructional sessions to become trained Invisalign Provider. In addition, Dr. Skupny must regularly submit treatment results for review and complete ongoing clinical training classes.
Dr. Skupny is an experienced Invisalign Provider near you. Doctor Skupny has a greater level of case experience.
How often must I wear my aligners?
We find that aligners are most effective when worn 20 to 22 hours per day and removed only for eating, brushing and flossing.
How often must I see my Invisalign doctor?
Your doctor will schedule regular appointments usually about once every four to six weeks. The goal of these visits is to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.
My provider mentioned “attachments”. What are they and why would I need them for my Invisalign treatment?
Depending on your specific treatment, some of the movements may require either “attachments” or “ridges” to help the aligner grip the teeth. These bumps, or wells, are where the aligner grips the attachment the doctor places on your teeth.
The attachments are actually small pieces of enamel-colored composite the doctor affixes to your teeth that are then gripped by bumps on your aligners. The ridges are slim indentations in your aligners. Your doctor will use one or both of these features to attempt to achieve the desired tooth movement.

Your Invisalign Provider in Naples

]Dr. Jeffrey Skupny uses a variety of dental procedures and techniques to provide the very best result for your individual circumstances.
His artistic abilities and experience with dentistry along with his use of the finest materials and products combine to create a healthy, natural looking, spectacular smile. Contact our Naples dental office in Collier County area today to learn more about the dental options available to you.
Isn’t it time to look younger and feel better? If you don’t like your smile, come see Dr. Jeffrey Skupny, conveniently located in Collier County, Florida.

How to Maximize Brushing and Flossing Your Teeth

February 10, 2016

Filed under: Dental Care,Oral Health Topics — Tags: — islandcoast @ 7:59 pm

Did you brush your teeth this morning?
Do you plan on scrubbing those chompers tonight?
A regular dentist appointment isn’t always the most appealing task, but the results of these visits depend entirely on how you go about brushing and flossing your teeth.
(more…)

What Causes Tooth Decay?

January 31, 2016

Filed under: Dental Problems,Oral Health Topics — Tags: — islandcoast @ 3:17 pm

Plaque is an insidious substance—a colorless, sticky film—that blankets your teeth and creates an environment in which bacteria erode tooth enamel, cause gum irritation, infection in inner structures such as pulp and the roots, and in extreme cases, tooth loss. Visiting a dentist is the best way to prevent tooth decay.
Some of the biggest culprits causing plaque are foods rich in sugar and carbohydrates, including soda beverages, some juices, candy and many kinds of pasta, breads and cereals.
Plaque also can attack fillings and other restorations in your mouth, which can lead to more costly treatment down the road.
Plaque is the main cause of tooth decay. It can also cause your gums to become irritated, inflamed, and bleed. Over time, the plaque underneath your gums may cause periodontal disease, which can lead to bone loss and eventual tooth loss.
Inside your teeth, decay can gradually destroy the inner layer, or dentin. It can also destroy the pulp, which contains blood vessels, nerves and other tissues, as well as the root.
Periodontal disease is advanced gum disease. This serious condition occurs when the structures that support your teeth—the gums and bone—break down from the infection. Pain, hypersensitivity and bleeding are some of the signs of periodontal disease.

Simple Preventative Measures

The two best defenses against tooth decay and gum disease are a healthy, well-balanced diet and good oral hygiene, including daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing and rinsing. Most public drinking water contains fluoride, but if you are unsure of your water supply, then use a good quality mouth rinse containing fluoride.
A good way to help your oral health between brushing is chewing sugarless gum; this stimulates your body’s production of saliva, a powerful chemical that actually neutralizes plaque formation and rinses decay-causing food particles and debris from your mouth.
In some cases, visiting a Naples Cosmetic Dentist can prescribe anti-cavity rinses or apply special anti-cavity varnishes or sealants to help fight decay.

How To Get The Most From Your Dental Visits

January 24, 2016

Filed under: Dental Care,Oral Health Topics — islandcoast @ 5:16 pm

For a lot of people, going to the dentist is something that they don’t like to do. But the good news is that there are things that you can do to make sure that when you are at the dentist that you are getting the most out of you appointment. Here are four things that you can do to make your next dental appointment at Island Coast Dentistry the best ever! (more…)

How to Straighten Your Teeth Without Braces

January 15, 2016

Filed under: Dental Care,Moving Teeth,Oral Health Topics — islandcoast @ 4:48 pm

When it comes to straightening your teeth, you have a lot of different options besides metal braces.
Despite your best efforts, whether it’s sports related, decay, missing teeth, genetics, or age your teeth can move out of alignment.
Thankfully, many of these misalignments can be treated by individually addressing them, or by using clear aligners like Invisalign. (more…)

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