Getting a perfect smile with dental implants

In the past, many people have been frustrated with dentures. They slip and click and can cause pain and discomfort for many people. But, unfortunately, dentures were the only option for many years if you were missing teeth. These days, thanks to advanced technology, many patients in Charlotte NC are considering dental implants instead of cumbersome dentures.

Dentures are inconvenient and painful
For years, people have been complaining about the discomfort associated with dentures. Dentures often slip and can be very uncomfortable. Some patient’s even report having loose dentures that click and cause embarrassment in public. People who choose dental implants instead of dentures are thankful that they no longer have to deal with this embarrassment—they appreciate the ability to speak clearly with dental implants. Dental implants are increasing their confidence and restore the ability to eat foods they couldn’t eat with traditional dentures.
 
Dental implants are less embarrassing than dentures
Many people who have had dentures have been elderly, but that is not always the case. Many younger patients with missing teeth are embarrassed about having dentures so early in life. They feel uncomfortable because of how dentures feel and look. It can be embarrassing and uncomfortable for people when dentures slip while they are speaking. Sometimes dentures do not allow people to have the active lifestyle they enjoyed before wearing dentures. Patients who receive dental implants comment that it has changed their lives, allowing them to participate once again in some of their favorite activities.

Dental implants are a great alternative to dentures
Because there have not been many options for people with missing teeth in the past, many people had to settle on dentures. But, when people are missing a few teeth, or even just one, rather that having to pull additional teeth for dentures, other teeth can remain intact. Unlike dentures, dental implants are anchored into the patient’s jawbone.

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
There are many Charlotte NC residents who may be great candidates for dental implants from Ballantyne Center for Dentistry. In fact, most people who are eligible for dentures are also candidates for dental implants. Whether it’s because of missing teeth or even the loss of facial structure due to missing teeth, dental implants are a great option. Additionally, if someone has had dentures and has denture soreness or the decreased ability to chew and eat in public—dental implants can solve that problem.

There is less discomfort with dental implants
Patients with dental implants do not have the same discomfort or soreness common to people with dentures. When your cosmetic dentist at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry puts in dental implants, they become attached to the jawbone as it heals—making them permanent.

Are you frustrated with your dentures? Make an appointment with Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte's cosmetic dentists, and discuss the denture alternative of dental implants in Charlotte NC!

If you are unhappy with your smile, have you considered how dental veneers could improve your smile? Dental veneers are known to improve appearance—providing a healthy, natural looking smile.

Dental veneers give teeth a natural look and a healthy appearance
Many people really like dental veneers because of how natural they look. Most of the time, people will not realize that you even have dental veneers because they give patients such a natural look. Cosmetic dentists agree that this is one of the biggest advantages of dental veneers.
 
While dental veneers are great for most people, there are a few groups of people that will not benefit from dental veneers. People that grind their teeth or clench their teeth are probably not great candidates because both can cause cracking, which damages teeth veneers.
 
Are you embarrassed about discolored teeth? If you are unhappy with your smile, there are a few options to consider, including dental veneers made of porcelain. There are many patients in Charlotte NC that have benefitted from porcelain veneers. Increased self-confidence is just one of the many benefits dental veneers offer.
 
Porcelain veneers are a type of dental veneer that is resistant to staining, and extremely strong, which means they will look nicer and last longer than other aesthetic options. If other types of dental veneers do stain, an experienced cosmetic dentist can buff the stain out. Dental veneers can last anywhere between 5 and 20 years before they need to be replaced by your cosmetic dentist at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC. 

You might say, wow, why is there such a big difference in how long some people can get out of their veneers.  Well, its like this, veneers are like anything else.  Take for instance cars.  Some people take very good care of their cars.  They keep them washed and waxed, take them in for service regularly, and don’t drive them too hard.  These cars tend to last longer.  Other people are less careful with their cars, neglect regular service intervals, and drive them like they stole them.  Ever heard that one?

Dental veneers are like that.  Be good to them and they will be good to you.  Be rough on them and they won’t last as long.

There are a variety of reasons patients choose dental veneers
Besides wanting to increase their self-confidence, there are several reasons patients decide to use dental veneers. As people age, teeth do often wear down. If a patient has been in an accident or had a fall they may have chipped or broken teeth—teeth veneers are great options for both of these situations. Additionally, porcelain veneers can even fix misaligned, irregular teeth. If you have gaps and are not happy with how your smile looks, be sure to discuss dental veneers with the cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC to see if dental veneers will be the best option for your situation.
 
What should you do before getting dental veneers?
If you are considering dental veneers, call your cosmetic dentist to discuss all of your options. But, remember that if you want to whiten your teeth, it is best to do it before you have your dental veneers put on. This will ensure that your dental veneers match your newly whitened teeth color. Additionally, some patients erroneously think that teeth will not decay with dental veneers. Unfortunately, that is not true. Teeth still will decay even after a patient has dental veneers—so be sure to take care of your teeth.

If you are unhappy with your smile call Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte’s cosmetic dentists, today to discuss how you can have the smile you have always dreamed about with dental veneers!

People of all ages and from all walks of life in Charlotte NC are looking for teeth whitening options. Often people who drink a lot of soda or drink coffee complain about their teeth staining. No matter the cause of teeth staining, you are looking for teeth whitening options and cosmetic dentists such as Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC are able to help you have the bright smile you desire.

Correlation between age and color of teeth
Many people in Charlotte NC do not realize that there is a direct correlation between tooth color and age. As we grow older, wear and tear causes teeth to get darker. Additionally, stains tend to accumulate. While someone in his twenties may see immediate results with teeth whitening, an older person may need to have more treatment to remove the tough stains. 
 
Translucency affects teeth color
Everyone is born with a specific tooth color. Some people have yellow-brownish teeth at birth, others have greenish-gray; as people get older, this color intensifies. While everyone’s teeth shows at least some translucency, thick teeth appear lighter in color, show more sparkle and even respond well to bleaching. Thin, transparent teeth do not have the same amount of pigment and it often makes teeth whitening of this sort of tooth difficult.

Red wine, tea, coffee and soda all cause teeth staining
Your eating habits can affect the color of your teeth. Unfortunately, many popular drinks can cause teeth staining, including drinks like red wine, tea, coffee, and soda. Also, many foods can cause staining. If someone eats a lot of carrots, oranges, or other dark foods, they may notice teeth staining. Also, acidic foods like citrus and vinegar increase the erosion of enamel, resulting in teeth becoming more transparent and more of the yellow-dentin shows through the teeth, making the teeth whitening job tougher.

Nicotine can leave brownish deposits on teeth
Smoking causes nicotine to leave deposits on teeth and it can soak into the tooth structure, resulting in unsightly stains. Additionally, teeth grinding can cause problems with discoloration because the edges that are grinding often get darker, making the whole tooth look darker. If you are grinding your teeth, it’s important to talk to your cosmetic dentist at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC, about how to stop teeth grinding before considering how to whiten your teeth. Also, if you have experienced any injuries to your teeth you may notice that stains and debris cause cracks and microscopic fissures to stain—this can make the whole tooth look darker.

Regardless of why your teeth are stained, whether it is because of age or food staining, and even injury or medication, today there are many teeth whitening options available in Charlotte NC. Discuss all of your teeth whitening options with the experts at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte's cosmetic dentists, and find out how easy it is to brighten your smile!

If you have missing teeth in Charlotte NC, considering dental implants is a great alternative to dentures. Thankfully, people having missing teeth can choose dental implants rather than having to deal with uncomfortable dentures. Dental implants are a popular alternative to dentures. Implant dentists consider dental implants a modern solution to dentures. Even though dentures have made huge advancements, they are still not the ideal solution for many people.

Dentures are not the best solution for missing teeth
Dentures have been made from a variety of materials since their invention. They have been made from materials like ivory, bone and even porcelain. However, today they are typically made from plastic, making them much more comfortable than they were previously. However, patients often think they are uncomfortable. Many people complain that they are painful—especially when a patient is required to wear both top and lower dentures.

Fit is very important when it comes to dentures. Often, people complain about how painful dentures are—and many times this is because they slip and do not fit properly. Modern technology has created dentures that fit much better than they did previously, but despite all of the advances in technology, many people in Charlotte NC still complain about discomfort.

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth
If you have missing teeth and are considering dental implants, implant dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry want you to know it is a great alternative to dentures. Dental implants are strong and patients no longer have to worry about embarrassing slippage. Also, patients appreciate the fact that they do not have the same discomfort they often had with dentures. Dental implants look and feel like normal teeth.

Dental implants are designed to create a foundation perfect for tooth restoration. Your Ballantyne Center for Dentistry implant dentist in Charlotte NC will place the implant directly into the jawbone—so a dental implant will look and feel like your normal teeth. If just one tooth is being replaced, just one post will be required. If there are several dental implants needed, there will be several posts used.

Jawbones will deteriorate without dental implants
Tooth loss can affect your overall health. If you lose a tooth as an adult, often that area of your jawbone deteriorates because it no longer needs to provide support for your tooth. When this happens, the jawbone can actually lose strength and cause health problems and noticeable jaw deterioration in the long run.

Benefits of dental implants
Since the entire root is replaced, dental implants replicate the function and look of natural teeth. Many patients appreciate that nothing in the mouth looks, or even feels, artificial. Also, since the jawbone does not deteriorate, facial structures remain intact. Often with dentures, the lower third of the face can collapse when teeth are missing. Since dental implants look like natural teeth, people considering dental implants are impressed with how much dental implants look like real teeth.

When traditional bridges are used, adjacent teeth often need to be ground down so that the bridge can be cemented to the other teeth. Dental implants keep those adjacent teeth intact. Quality of life often improves because dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, making oral hygiene easy and convenient. Patients with dental implants can enjoy foods they may not have been able to keep eating, such as a juicy steak or tasty apple, because the dental implant functions exactly like a natural tooth.

If you are considering dental implants in Charlotte NC, contact Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte’s cosmetic dentists, to discuss the benefits of dental implants!

Porcelain veneers can help increase your confidence if you are not happy with how your teeth look. Whether you have gaps between your teeth, or have teeth that are worn down from years of use, you may be a great candidate for porcelain veneers. Many cosmetic dentists will recommend porcelain veneers if your teeth are discolored, as well.

Discolored teeth can be embarrassing
If you are embarrassed because your teeth have been injured or because they are stained, porcelain veneers can be a great option. Many patients in Charlotte NC feel like their dental veneers increase their self-confidence. Because they are resistant to stain, they will look nicer for longer than some other options. If there is a stain, many times your cosmetic dentist at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry will be able to buff out the stain. In fact, teeth veneers will last about 5-10 years. After that, they will need to be replaced by a trusted cosmetic dentist.

Teeth wear with age
It is common to discover that as you age, your teeth tend to wear down. Sometimes, our teeth chip or break. In both cases, a cosmetic dentist in Charlotte NC may recommend porcelain veneers. If you have gaps between your teeth, it is worth discussing teeth veeners with your cosmetic dentist, they are often used to fix irregular or misaligned teeth, or even those with gaps.

Whiten teeth before getting porcelain veneers
Were you planning on visiting your cosmetic dentist for teeth whitening? If so, be sure to get your teeth whitened before you get porcelain veneers so the porcelain will match your natural teeth! Because porcelain veneers are not reversible or repairable, patients should remember that taking care of their teeth is important. Just because someone has porcelain veneers, does not mean that their teeth will not decay. In fact, the opposite is true. If this happens, the cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC will recommend dental crowns.

Dental veneers are great for most people
Cosmetic dentists say that porcelain veneers are great for most people. However, they are not a good alternative if you have unhealthy or weakened teeth. If you grind your teeth, or clench your teeth, you may not be a good candidate for porcelain veneers because these behaviors can cause cracking.

There are so many advantages to getting porcelain veneers in Charlotte NC. They will give your teeth a natural look and a healthy appearance and because they are so natural looking, many people will not even realize you have teeth veneers.

If you are considering cosmetic dentistry and porcelain veneers in Charlotte NC, you should contact a trustworthy cosmetic dentist at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry today to discuss your options.

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over a tooth. By covering the tooth, dental crowns restore the shape, size and strength of the tooth.

Cosmetic dentistry patients in Charlotte NC also appreciate that dental crowns improve their appearance. When put in place, the crown will fully cover the entire visible part of the tooth that is at and above the gum line.

Why get a dental crown?
Dental crowns protect weak teeth from breaking; they can also hold together parts of a cracked tooth. The weak tooth could be damaged or decayed. If there is a broken tooth, or a tooth that has been worn down severely, a crown can restore the appearance of that tooth. Often after a large filling has been used, a crown can cover and support the tooth. Sometimes dental crowns are used to hold a dental bridge in place or even to cover a dental implant.

Types of crowns available
Permanent dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, porcelain fused to metal, resin, and ceramic or porcelain. Your trustworthy cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry can help you make the right choice when it comes to your dental crowns.

Metal
Gold alloy, other alloys, or even base-metal alloy are all used for crowns. With metal crowns less tooth structure needs to be removed and often wear to nearby teeth is kept to a minimum. Metal dental crowns have the longest lifespan, however many people do not like the metallic color. However, many times cosmetic dentists will use metal crowns for back molars.

Porcelain fused to metal
Many patients appreciate that dental crowns can be matched to the color of the other teeth. If you are looking for a dental crown that looks like your other teeth, porcelain fused to metal is as close as you can get, outside of using all-ceramic dental crowns.

Resin
Resin dental crowns are less expensive than other types of dental crowns. However, they do not last as long because they tend to wear down over time.  When choosing materials for dental crowns, your cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry want you to know all the facts, and then help you make the best choice for you and your teeth!

Ceramic or porcelain
If you have metal allergies, your cosmetic dentist will often recommend using an all-ceramic or all-porcelain crown. They are not quite as strong as other types of crowns, but they look the most natural, so they are a great choice if you need a dental crown on your front teeth.

Most dental crowns are made in a dental laboratory and temporary crowns are made in your cosmetic dentist’s office.
 
However, if your dentist has a CEREC system in his or her office, all ceramic crowns can be fabricated in the office and during just one visit.  This technology has been available for several years and is very predictable.  At Ballantyne Center for Dentistry we have been using this technology for 7 years.  Many of our patients request "one day crowns" because it is much more convenient for their schedules and there is no difference in cost.

Do you need dental crowns? Contact Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC, to discuss all of your options for dental crowns.

Are you afraid of the dentist? According to the American Association of Endodontists about 80% of Americans are afraid of going to the dentist. In fact 5-10% of people avoid dental visits altogether because of their fear. And 20% of people will only go to the dentist when they absolutely need to.

Most dental fear based on past experiences
Experts say that about 2/3 of people are afraid to go to the dentist because they had a bad past experience at the dentist. Others have a fear because of another issue, such as anxiety disorders. Additionally, some people who have experienced posttraumatic stress disorders may have a fear of the dentist because of how physically close the dentist and hygienist get to the patient. Often people are afraid not because of the pain, but because of the lack of control. The lack of ability to respond, and lack of control over the situation can create a lot of stress in many people.
 
Fearful patients should be assertive
When people are afraid of the dentist, they often do not feel comfortable sharing their feelings with the dentist. But, in fact, when your cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry are aware of that fear, they will be able to help the patient and walk through the process with them. After a patient shares their fears and anxiety about visiting a dentist, a gentle dentist will be careful to make the patient feel comfortable in Charlotte NC.

 
A soothing dental office helps ease anxiety
If you have anxiety about going to the dentist, consider going to a dental office that has a soothing environment. Many dental offices, including Ballantyne Dentistry in Charlotte NC create a physically soothing environment for patients. Calling it a dental spa—the dentists’ office looks, feels and even smells, like a spa. Complete with massage chairs, XM/Sirius radio and a library of DVDs, there are plenty of distractions available to help patients at this popular dentist’s office feel comfortable during their appointment.

Strategies dentists use to help patients feel comfortable
Experienced dentists in Charlotte NC use various strategies to help patients feel comfortable. But, often, the most effective strategy is simply communicating with the patient throughout the dental appointment.
 
By explaining what the patient will feel, and for how long, patients will feel more comfortable. Many gentle dentists frequently ask nervous patients if they can continue with their work—this helps the patient feel like they are in control of the situation. By letting the patient know that the appointment can end at anytime, patients are reassured knowing that they can leave if they need to.

Patients can benefit from relaxation techniques
Did you know that controlling your breathing can help if you are afraid of the dentist? Common inhaling and exhaling at a slow, controlled pace can be a big help in relaxing while at a dentist appointment. By taking a deep breath, holding it, and then letting it out slowly (like a leaky tire), you will slow your heartbeat and subsequently relax your muscles. You can also tense and relax different muscle groups—this is called progressive muscle relaxation and can help with relaxation while in stressful situations.

Are you afraid of the dentist? Try visiting the gentle dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC today and see how easy it is to get back in the cosmetic dentists’ chair and on your way to good dental health!

Dental implants are a great option for missing teeth. Did you know that your teeth were designed to last a lifetime? Unfortunately, sometimes they do not. And replacing teeth that are missing or failing can affect your overall health, and the health of your other teeth. You can lose the ability to chew, as well as lose other teeth.

Missing teeth can cause loss of self-esteem
If you have missing teeth, you know that sometimes it affects your appearance and you may suffer a loss of self-esteem. We see patients every week that struggle with this. Thankfully, these days there are great options for people who have missing teeth. Dental implants are the first choice of cosmetic dentists in Charlotte NC. They have been used for over 50 years, and are the most effective option in most situations. Cosmetic dentists and patients alike appreciate that dental implants are more predictable than alternatives like bridgework, resin bonded bridges, and even endodontic treatment.
 
So, what are dental implants?
If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental implant can substitute the root of the missing teeth. The titanium dental implant acts as an anchor for the replacement tooth, or even for the crown or a set or replacement teeth.

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
When people think of dentures, they typically think of elderly people. Alternatively, dental implants are a great choice for anyone, of any age, who is missing one or more teeth. Whether it was because of injury, or even disease or decay, dental implants can be a great option. Often, dental implants are used for people who cannot wear removable dentures any longer. Your Charlotte NC cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry can help you decide if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
 
It is important to note that ideal candidates for dental implants have enough bone to support the implant. Thankfully, even if you do not have enough bone, cosmetic dentistry has methods available to correct bone deficiency.

Dental implants are not one-size fits all
These days there are many options for dental implants. They are not one-size fits all. So, if you are considering dental implants, your cosmetic dentist can help you figure out which ones will be right for your particular situation.
 
Depending on your situation, treatment time can vary. Your cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry will evaluate your situation and can give you an estimated timetable.
 
Dental implants have a high success rate
When people are considering investing in dental implants, the success rate is definitely a consideration. Thankfully, when a trusted cosmetic dentist installs the dental implants there is a nearly 100% success rate. Because they are so durable, many patients will have their dental implants last for the rest of their life.

While it is easy to see the cosmetic benefits of dental implants, many people do not realize that there are many other benefits of dental implants. Research shows that dental implants can help improve overall oral health in patients. This is another reason that many Charlotte NC dentists will recommend patients have dental implants put in when the patient is missing one or several teeth.  Research shows that people that have more teeth actually live longer!

If you have missing teeth, consider discussing all of your options for dental implants with your trusted Charlotte NC cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry today.

There are many people all over Charlotte NC that are afraid of the dentist. A visit to the cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry can provide so many health benefits, it is important that patients visit them every six months. If you or your loved ones are afraid of visiting the dentist, here are a few tips:

1. It’s common to be afraid of the dentist.
There definitely are not many people who would say that going to the dentist is fun. So, a fear of going to the dentist is actually very common. If you are afraid of the dentist, your fears are normal. Sometimes, if someone had a bad experience at a dentist’s office as a child, it can make going to the dentist as an adult nerve-wracking. Some people have also inherited their fear from their parents—if someone in your family had a traumatic experience, it can be difficult to overcome the fear of the dentist.

Thankfully, the professionals at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry cosmetic dentists are well trained, and have tools and techniques to minimize discomfort and help patients relax through even the most difficult or lengthy procedure. 

2. Find the right dentist.
If you are repeatedly having bad experiences at the dentist, it is important that you find a dentist who will help you overcome your fear. Many dentists will help increase your comfort and will help reduce your anxiety. There are even dentists that specifically treat people who are nervous about visiting the dentist. One of their techniques can include sedation dentistry, and of course, a lot of encouragement. If you need a dentist, ask around to find a dentist who can meet your needs and provide you the safe environment you need. Also, you can typically make an appointment with a dentist to discuss your dental needs without actually having any work done—so you can decide beforehand if this is the best gentle dentist for you.

3. You can choose sedation dentistry.
A Charlotte NC dentist can provide a number of options for sedation dentistry. Sometimes they will just give you a pill to take before your appointment to calm your nerves. They can also provide other sedation that will help you feel more comfortable and get you through the dental appointment.

4. Take it slow.
If you are afraid of the dentist, chances are you have not been in awhile and may need a lot of work. Thankfully, you do not have to have everything done at the same time. First, just go to meet the dentist. We often have people come in for a 20 minute free consultation. Then, schedule a new patient experience. Then, you and your dentist can decide what the next steps are. Having the low-stress visits first will help calm your nerves, and ease you back into the dentist’s chair.

5. Bring distractions.
Whether you bring a friend with you, or just bring a good book, it is helpful to have some distractions when visiting your Charlotte NC dentist. A friend can talk to you while you wait for the dentist, and encourage you during the visit. But, even something like a book can help you avoid thinking about where you are. Also, most cosmetic dentists who offer sedation are able to provide distractions for you like movies, videos, or personalized music.

Are you afraid of the dentist? Call Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC where they offer the latest in cosmetic dentistry techniques, along with sedation dentistry, to help you relax if you are afraid of the dentist.

Dental veneers are appropriate for many patients with a variety of issues in

Charlotte NC. The conditions of a patient’s teeth will determine if dental veneers will be successful. Thankfully, the trusted cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry can use dental veneers to fix many aesthetic problems patients have with their teeth, from stains to chipped or broken teeth.

Patients are often surprised that dental veneers can also be used to fix crooked and misaligned teeth. If someone has gaps between their teeth, teeth veneers can be used to fix that problem, as well. Also, if there are holes or fractures in a patients tooth, a smile makeover can help.

Not everyone is a candidate for dental veneers
While the majority of people in Charlotte NC seeking dental veneers will be great candidates, there are some people who may not be able to receive teeth veneers. If someone has unhealthy teeth, they will not be the best candidate for veneers. If a patient has either gum disease or decay, this can also hinder receiving dental veneers. Thankfully, cosmetic dentistry can treat these issues and then patients may be able to get porcelain veneers to fix those unsightly problems with their teeth.

Because porcelain veneers are adhered to the enamel on a patients tooth, teeth veneers will not be a good option of there is no enamel on the teeth. Do you grind your teeth? You may not be the best candidate for teeth veneers, then, because grinding can cause chipping and fractures in the dental veneers. The same is true for patients who clench their teeth.

There is good news with this as well. Many patients have had great luck ending both grinding and clenching, so talking to your cosmetic dentist at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry about ways to stop doing this can help you become a good candidate for dental veneers.

Veneers are a permanent solution
Because dental veneers are a permanent solution, the process is not reversible. The enamel on teeth must be removed to adhere the porcelain veneers. Even if you decide that dental veneers are not the right option for you, by talking to your cosmetic dentist in Charlotte NC you can come up with a solution that will give you the smile that you have always wanted.

When porcelain veneers are done correctly, they will bond tightly to your teeth. So, although they may be wafer thin, they are still strong. Many dentists in Charlotte NC advise patients to avoid drinking alcohol excessively after veneers because it can dissolve the bonding agent used to secure the veneers. If taken care of properly, porcelain veneers can last for many years to come.

For many people dental veneers are a great option, but they may not be for everyone. Make an appointment with Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte's cosmetic dentists today to talk about your options with dental veneers so you can have the smile you have always wanted!

Visiting a Charlotte NC cosmetic dentist for porcelain veneers can increase confidence and self-esteem. People who have gaps between their teeth, worn teeth or even discolored teeth may all benefit from dental veneers.

Porcelain provide increased self-confidence
Many people are embarrassed because their teeth are injured or stained, but porcelain veneers will restore their self-confidence. Because of the natural tooth appearance of porcelain, these dental veneers are stronger and more aesthetic alternative than crowns. Teeth veneers are stain resistant and the gums generally tolerate the porcelain well.

Dental veneers can be used in a variety of situations
Whether teeth are just discolored, or they have been chipped or broken, porcelain veneers can help. Often, as people get older their teeth wear down. A cosmetic dentist can use teeth veneers to fix this problem. Your trusted cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry can fix irregular or misaligned teeth, or even teeth with gaps between them with porcelain veneers.

What to consider before getting dental veneers
If people are planning on whitening their teeth, they should do so before getting porcelain veneers. Also, porcelain teeth veneers are not reversible and are not repairable if they crack or chip. It is also important to remember that good oral hygiene is important. Teeth that have dental veneers can still decay; if this happens a crown may be necessary.

While porcelain veneers are a great choice for many people, they are not a good alternative for those with unhealthy teeth or weakened teeth. Additionally, people that grind or clench their teeth would not be the best candidates for teeth veneers, because this can cause cracking of the porcelain veneers. The best way to know if you are a good candidate for porcelain veneers is to see your trusted Charlotte NC cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry.

Dental veneers resist stains
A cosmetic dentist bonds porcelain to the front of teeth. This changes the color, shape, size, or length of the teeth. The custom-made shells of porcelain veneers cover the front surface of the teeth and are wafer-thin. One of the most popular benefits of dental veneers is that they are resistant to stain and look like natural teeth.

The process of getting dental veneers
A cosmetic dentist will remove enamel from the tooth surface and then make a model of the tooth receiving the porcelain veneer. The trusted cosmetic dentist will send the impression to a dental laboratory to have the porcelain created. Once the results come back to the Charlotte NC dentist, the dental veneer will be bonded to the teeth. Often, cosmetic dentists will place temporary veneers on teeth while waiting for the permanent ones to come back from the laboratory. A dentist may request the patient come back for a follow up visit to evaluate the placement and how gums are reacting to the dental veneer itself.

If you are considering cosmetic dentistry and porcelain veneers in Charlotte NC, you should contact Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte’s cosmetic dentists, to discuss your options.

Visiting a reliable cosmetic dentist is the first step to having a more confident smile for those considering dental implants in Charlotte NC. By age 44, nearly 75% of adults have lost at least one permanent tooth. People with tooth loss often find that cosmetic dentistry is a helpful way to increase self-esteem and even make daily tasks, like eating, easier.

Dental implants provide a denture alternative
For many years the only options for people suffering from tooth loss were bridges and dentures. These days there are other options, like dental implants. Regardless of whether tooth loss is because of tooth decay, gingivitis, or injury, dental implants can be a great solution.  Dental implants are replacement roots that provide a strong foundation for permanent teeth. A reliable implant dentist will make the dental implants to match the patient’s natural teeth. Charlotte NC residents no longer have to be burdened by not having a perfect smile.

Dental implants increase quality of life
Having missing teeth fixed or replaced is not just about aesthetics. Often missing teeth make it difficult to eat, and sometimes speech is affected. While dental implants will provide improved appearance, patients enjoy that they feel permanent. Oftentimes with dentures, the teeth can slip causing speech problems. As a denture alternative, dental implants allow patients to not have to worry about teeth slipping.

Dentures can also make chewing difficult. However, dental implants function like your own teeth, making eating pain free. Because they are fused with bone, they are more comfortable than traditional dentures.

In addition to the cosmetic and practice benefits of dental implants, people considering dental implants should be aware that implants can improve oral health. When one of the trusted Charlotte NC sedation dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry gives a patient dental implants, most of the patient’s teeth are left intact, which helps improve long-term oral health.

What to expect at a dental implant consultation
A trusted Charlotte NC cosmetic dentist who focuses on implant dentistry will thoroughly examine a patient’s teeth during the consultation- evaluating gums, bone density and teeth quantity. Often, dentists will use x-rays and CT scans to determine whether or not there is sufficient bone structure for the implants. The implant dentist will also be able to determine where the implant will be placed.

Nearly 100% success rate with dental implants
For people considering dental implants, the success rate can be a concern. But, when a trusted cosmetic dentist installs dental implants correctly, there is a 98% success rate. Because of the durability, many dental implants will last a lifetime if cared for properly.

Who can get dental implants?
As long as a patient has healthy gums, and bone strong enough to hold the implant, they can be considered for dental implants. It is also important that patients are committed to good oral hygiene and will continue to regularly visit their trusted sedation dentist. However, if patients smoke heavily or have uncontrolled chronic disorders, they will need to be evaluated individually by their cosmetic dentist.

If you are considering dental implants in Charlotte NC, contact the reliable implant dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte's cosmetic dentists, today to discuss your options.

Dental implants can be the answer to your sporting injuries.  Whether you are a 17-year-old who lost a few teeth at his high school baseball game, or you are a 40-year-old who got pile driven with the volleyball at the company beach volleyball tournament, losing a tooth is bad, but not as bad as you might think.  In the past, the only way to fix a missing tooth was through the use of a bridge, partials, or dentures.  But today, with implant dentistry, a cosmetic dentist can replace your missing teeth with high quality and beautiful dental implants.  In fact, the dental implants you receive will probably be even more beautiful than your original teeth.

How Johnny got his dental implants
For a moment, let us consider what it would be like to be a 17-year-old high school baseball star named Johnny.  It is the final game of the season.  Johnny is the star pitcher, the one who everyone is counting on because of his incredible speedball that no one can hit.  Even his cosmetic dentist father, who is also an implant dentist, has canceled several appointments just so he could make the game.  In fact, his cosmetic dentist mother is also there – she is the sedation dentistry expert in the family and she has this incredible calming way about her that no one can resist.  Everyone is watching young Johnny with bated breath – even the college recruiters are there to see how he performs.

Johnny and his team are ahead by one point.  It is the Ninth Inning and Johnny just struck-out the last two batters.  But the bases are loaded and up to bat is Danny, the star batter from the other team, who is the high school version of Babe Ruth and never misses an opportunity to hit the ball out of the park.  Johnny winds up for the pitch, throws his fastest ball straight over the plate, and you can probably guess what happens next.  

Danny hits a line drive straight into Johnny, which hits him right in the teeth.  Johnny flies back onto his bottom on the mound, but guess what… the ball lands right in his glove in his lap, along with his two front teeth.  The crowd goes crazy, and so do the parents of Johnny, who can only look at the blood on the face of their poor son.  Everybody knows that the recruiters are going to be falling over themselves with scholarships for Johnny, but his cosmetic dentist parents know that they will have some work to do if they want their future baseball star son to have a smile that is not only functional, but attractive, too.

How dental implants work
Fortunately for Johnny, his parents are skilled cosmetic dentists who can replace his missing teeth easily.  They will take care of the implants while using sedation dentistry so that Johnny does not feel a thing and gets to receive his dental implants in a comfortable and stress-free state of relaxation.  First, Johnny will receive two titanium implants in his jawbone where his teeth used to be.  Then, he will get some temporary replacement teeth, usually attached to a special kind of partial or retainer, so that no one will notice he is missing his teeth.  Then after five to eight months, his cosmetic dentist parents will install his permanent dental implant prosthetic teeth on top of the titanium posts.  They will be beautiful porcelain teeth and no one will ever know he had an accident.  Best of all, Johnny will be able to enjoy his favorite foods, smile confidently at his favorite jokes, or growl threateningly at his opponents on the baseball diamond for the rest of his career.

Do you need dental implants in Charlotte NC?
If you or your family member have lost a tooth as the result of a sporting accident like Johnny, or if you simply need new dentures and are looking for denture alternatives, contact the Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte NC cosmetic dentists, for all your dental implant needs. The expert cosmetic dentistry professionals at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry are ready to give you the best dental implants in the business.  Imagine, all of this, and modern sedation dentistry techniques to make your experience completely stress-free, pain-free and problem-free. Do not delay; get in touch with Ballantyne Center for Dentistry for your dental implants today!

Afraid of the dentist? Ever tried to take a six-year-old child into a haunted house during Halloween?  Do you have a similar look on your face every time you think about picking up the phone to call your dentist?  Well, that is probably why your dentist always tries to schedule your next appointment before you leave the office.  But what can be done for people who are afraid of the dentist?  How can a gentle dentist ease the fear of his patients?

Sedation Dentistry with Dr. Joe Hufanda and Dr. Christian Yaste
At the Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC, Dr. Joe Hufanda and Dr. Christian Yaste are two gentle dentists who have mastered the art of twilight dentistry to ease the fears and pains of their cosmetic dentistry patients.  More and more, Dr. Joe Hufanda and Dr. Christian Yaste are seeing patients who have a debilitating fear of the dentist – these patients often come into their offices and ask:  Can you help patients who are afraid of the dentist?  In some cases, a patient may be so afraid of going to the dentist that they have not been in many years, but the problems in their mouth eventually became so awful and so painful that they no longer had any choice. 

Will a sleep dentist really put me to sleep?
Often, a twilight dentistry specialist is referred to as a sleep dentist.  But sleep dentist is not the most accurate term to use.  With modern sedation dentistry, a patient is not actually put to sleep, though they sometimes get so relaxed that they do fall into a slumber.  Rather, the patient will receive a few small sedative pills upon arrival at the offices of their gentle dentist.  In some cases, when patients have a particularly strong phobia of going to the dentist, a pain free dentist like the doctors at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry might give a patient some pills to take before he or she even leaves the house.  Of course, in such cases, it would be necessary to have a friend drive you to the dentist, but the beauty of this tactic is that it completely makes your fear disappear before you even leave your home.  That way you will not be too terrified to go to your appointment and you can receive all the important dental care that you require – without any kind of fear or pain. 

Get the benefits of sedation dentistry in Charlotte NC

So do you live in Charlotte NC and are you afraid of the dentist?  You can bypass all those fears by getting in touch with the Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte's cosmetic dentists, where the gentle dentists care about being pain free dentists and fear-free dentists.  Could anything be better than going to a pain free dentist who can take away all your anxieties with a few small pills?  Call the Ballantyne Center for Dentistry today, and ask them:  How can you help someone who is afraid of the dentist?

Dentures are the most common solution to the age old fact that as we get older, our teeth, just like our children, often leave us to live out their separate lives in the world.  Granted, your teeth probably do not call on your birthday or come spend Christmas week with you – nor do they make cute little grandkids for you to play with, but you get the picture. Teeth, sometimes, do not last forever.

Dentures:  the traditional solution
Most people who lose their teeth go to the dentist to get fitted for dentures, and then there is the added bonus of being able to impress your little grandkids with the way you can pull out your teeth and put them back in.  Unfortunately, though, this aspect of dentures – the fact that they are removable – represents one of the biggest challenges to denture wearers.  That knee-slapper joke that your best friend tells, the one that makes you want to laugh so hard it hurts, suddenly becomes a threat.  If you laugh too hard, will your teeth fall out?  And then there is the problem of enjoying certain foods, like chewing gum, toffee, or a big juicy steak.  All these things we love, but enjoying them with dentures becomes a lot more complicated. 

At some point, denture wearers may wonder -- is there a better alternative to dentures? The answer, thankfully, is yes, and it is found in dental implants.

Dental implants are the answer to your problems with dentures
Many people who currently wear dentures or need new dentures are surprised to discover the many amazing benefits that modern dental implants can give them and that dental implants are a miraculous solution to your problems with dentures.  For example, complete teeth replacement dental implants are permanent porcelain overdentures and they are not removable, so no more worrying about your teeth floating around in your mouth.  Albeit, you will not be able to entertain your grandkids by taking them out anymore, but for most people this minor inconvenience is a small price to pay.  More seriously, dental implants are strong and beautiful and they will fill out your face again.  They give you solid teeth again, teeth that are yours, which you can use to enjoy so many foods that you never thought you would be able to enjoy after receiving dentures. 

Get your dental implants in Charlotte NC from talented cosmetic dentists
People wearing dentures or people needing to receive dentures can find out more information about dental implants, how long it takes, and what is involved in the procedure of getting dental implants by getting in touch with Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC.  At Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, the expert cosmetic dentists Dr. Christian Yaste and Dr. Joe Hufanda are waiting to give you a new lease on life through dental implants.  Nothing makes them happier at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry than giving Charlotte NC residents something to smile about.  So think about the freedom of saying goodbye to your dentures for good, and contact Ballantyne Center for Dentistry now!

Cosmetic dentistry is the dentistry of the future and it is one of the most effective and reliable ways to dramatically improve your appearance and your confidence.  For this reason, there are a number of benefits of seeing a dentist with cosmetic dentistry training over a regular dentist. One of the most important benefits of seeing a cosmetic dentist over a regular dentist is that they are specially trained not only to help repair and restore teeth, they do it with an artist’s eye. This means that they are always aware of the aesthetic values of cosmetic dentistry, especially when it comes to making replacement teeth look natural, or getting just the right level of teeth whitening so you get noticed, and not just your teeth.

Charlotte cosmetic dentists help their patients every day to overcome their dental-related problems ranging from simple one-day procedures to more complicated multi-day smile makeovers.  Whether you have a solitary chipped tooth, or whether you do not have any teeth at all, a modern cosmetic dentist can give you your smile back – and make it better and more beautiful than it ever was before. 

What are the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures in Charlotte NC?
The most common cosmetic dentistry procedures performed include dental implants to replace a missing tooth, or to replace all of your teeth for denture wearers; porcelain veneers to correct teeth misalignments, discolored teeth or gaps in your teeth; and teeth whitening procedures to make your smile white and shining with a natural luster.

More about dental implants
Dental implants have become more and more popular in Charlotte NC and a cosmetic dentist can provide them to you through a minor form of dental surgery. The procedure involves the implantation of a titanium post into your jaw bone at the site of your missing tooth – or in the case of people with dentures – multiple posts will be installed at various points throughout your jaw.  Once those implants have adhered and fused with your jawbone, your cosmetic dentist will place your new tooth on top of the post – or he may place a bridge or complete overdenture to replace multiple teeth.  Since dental implants are permanent and beautiful, they can help people feel more confident as well as enjoy certain foods that they never could have enjoyed with dentures. 

More about porcelain veneers
All porcelain veneers installed on your teeth by a Charlotte cosmetic dentist can transform your smile instantly.  The porcelain veneers of today do not include any kind of metal framing so there is no more worrying about dark stains at the gum line which used to be so common with the porcelain veneers of yesterday. Also, because porcelain veneers are translucent – much like your natural tooth enamel – they look perfectly natural.  In fact, porcelain veneers have a special kind of luster that looks so real and dazzling, they will make your teeth the envy of your friends.

More about teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is by far the easiest and fastest way to improve the look of your smile.  Often in just one visit to your Charlotte cosmetic dentists, you can leave with teeth that are dramatically whiter, cleaner looking, and more beautiful.  So many people go throughout their lives self-conscious about the darkness or dinginess of their teeth, but really in most cases it is such a quick and inexpensive fix that no one should ever have to worry about not having the whitest teeth possible.

Makeover your smile in Charlotte NC today!
If you live in Charlotte NC and would like to receive the numerous benefits of seeing a cosmetic dentist over a general dentist, do not delay and contact the expert cosmetic dentistry professionals at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte's cosmetic dentists, today.

Dental implant dentists literally perform miracles in your mouth. Some patients may not have any teeth at all and need new dentures, or maybe they are tired of wearing dentures and looking for denture alternatives. Well, by way of receiving strategically placed dental implants, a person who needs new dentures can have a permanent overdenture prosthesis installed in their mouth – a prosthesis which will provide them with the ability to enjoy foods that they could not have confidently enjoyed with dentures; a prosthesis that will allow them to smile confidently and beautifully when they are laughing and having a conversation with friends. These and other benefits that dental implants provide make them one of the many modern miracles of cosmetic dentistry. 

Which dental implant dentist is best in Charlotte NC?

In Charlotte NC, there are a lot of dental implant dentists to choose from if you are considering implant dentistry and denture alternatives. However, the Ballantyne Center for Dentistry certainly stands out as one of your best options available. That is primarily due to the fact that the cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Dr. Christian Yaste and Dr. Joe Hufanda, care deeply about the quality and care you receive – and they also want you to receive your dental implants in as relaxed, carefree, stress-free, and pain free environment as possible.

Immediately upon walking into the doors of Ballantyne Center for Dentistry you will see that their cosmetic dentistry office is unlike any other in the area. Dr. Christian Yaste and Dr. Joe Hufanda have taken great trouble to design and construct their office in an aesthetically pleasing way. Just like a warm and pure smile has a way of making you feel at ease, the spa-like décor of these cosmetic dentist offices have been specifically designed to help you leave your fears at the door, and enjoy your visit with the dental implant dentist.

Implant dentists, Dr. Christian Yaste and Dr. Joe Hufanda, have a warm and generous bedside manner capable of putting even the most nervous patients at ease. But they are also practitioners of sedation dentistry, which typically involves taking at sedative pill to help you into an extreme state of relaxation that wipes away any residual fears of the cosmetic dentist that you may have. Sedation dentistry at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry involves taking a couple small pills and waiting about an hour until they take effect. In fact, a lot of patients become so calm and stress-free that they fall into a sleep-like state. Many remember very little, if anything at all, of their dental implant procedure. Best of all, you will not feel any pain during the procedure.

Contact the dental implant dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry today!

If you need new dentures or simply would like to inquire about denture alternatives and whether or not implant dentistry is right for you, Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC is available to assist you. Find out how a dental implant dentist can help you by getting in touch with Dr. Christian Yaste and Dr. Joe Hufanda today!

Dental implants are an excellent solution for virtually anyone who has lost a tooth. Many years ago, missing teeth were the hallmark of age. No one batted an eyelash over an elderly person who had a few missing teeth or who even might have been missing all of their teeth. Dentists invented dentures and partials to correct the problem of missing teeth, and give those missing teeth a more youthful appearance, while also improving their ability to enjoy a wider variety of foods. Still, dentures and partials were removable, as they are today, and patients complained that they were not very comfortable to use.

In the 1950s, a doctor combined the miraculous way that bone naturally bonds and fuses to titanium with the practice of dentistry to create the ultimate in denture alternatives – dental implants.  However, evidence suggests that denture alternatives, such as implant dentistry, date back even further than just the 1950s. There is some historic evidence that suggests dental implants may have been crudely developed by the Mayan civilization.

Could dental implants be older than Charlotte NC?
In 1931 archaeologists discovered the remains of a young Mayan female who appears to have been the recipient of three tooth-shaped dental implants made from shell material. Scientists believe that this implant procedure had been performed around the time of 600 AD.  It is therefore possible that the practice of implant dentistry is much older than we could have imagined.

Dr. Leonard Linkow and the birth of modern implant dentistry
Unfortunately, the knowledge surrounding this ancient Mayan practice was lost with the death of their civilization. However, by the time the 1950s arrived, scientists and doctors were researching the way that animal bone tissue naturally grows around and adheres to titanium. By 1952, Dr. Leonard Linkow had successfully installed his first dental implant made from titanium only four months after finishing his dentistry education. Dr. Linkow ultimately devoted much of his career to placing dental implants, and by 1992 he had performed more than 19,000 procedures. For that reason, Dr. Linkow is revered today for his contribution to the field of implant dentistry and patients of Ballantyne Center for Dentistry continue to benefit from his discoveries.

Implant dentists learn more
By the 1960s, many different doctors and implant dentists were researching and improving the process of installing dental implants. One doctor devised a special kind of titanium screw, which proved to be highly effective as an implant. Today, this form of screw-like titanium implant is the most popular form of dental implant used.

The denture alternatives of today
Implant dentistry has indeed come a very long way since its initial use in the 1950s, and implant dentistry is now performed throughout the world, even in Charlotte NC. Implant dentistry boasts a 95% success rate in patients who are shown to be good candidates for the procedure. In fact, even if a patient is not a good candidate – for example some patients do not possess a sufficient level of jawbone density in order to accept an implant – there are many things that can be done to get around and circumvent such problems. For example, an oral or maxillofacial surgeon can perform a bone grafting procedure to bolster the jawbone and create the necessary density for a dental implant to be successfully received.

If you live in Charlotte NC, you can visit Ballantyne Center for Dentistry for all your dental implant needs. If you have dentures, need new dentures, if you are looking for denture alternatives, or if you are simply missing a tooth, then you may be an excellent candidate for dental implants. If you would like to know more about dental implants, get in touch with Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte's cosmetic dentists, now!

Afraid of the dentist? Have you ever noticed the way your cat runs away and hides as soon as you take out his cat carrier when it is time to take him to the veterinarian? You search all over the house and you cannot find him anywhere! You look in all the bedrooms and you look in the bathrooms.  You even look around outside the house, and eventually you find him hiding way in the back underneath the bed in your guest bedroom – virtually the most impossible place from which to retrieve him.

What about you?  When it is time for you to go to the dentist, do you want to do the same thing as your cat? Do you want to go and run away and hide as far as possible from the reach of your dentist? Are you afraid of the dentist?

Dr. Joe Hufanda and Dr. Christian Yaste are very gentle dentists
At Ballantyne Center for Dentistry in Charlotte NC, Dr. Joe Hufanda and Dr. Christian Yaste understand your fears completely, and they know you want a gentle dentist. They know you want a pain free dentist. They accept that pretty much everyone is afraid of the dentist to some degree. That is why pain free dentists utilize the most advanced techniques in twilight dentistry sedation dentistry that exist today. In fact, the techniques they utilize are so advanced that they can get rid of all your pain, fear, nervousness and reservations associated with going to the dentist. There is no need for Charlotte NC dental patients to ever be afraid of the dentist again.

Do dental fears run in the family?
Even Dr. Christian Yaste’s father understands you want a pain free dentist, a gentle dentist, and a comfortable office and surroundings in which to receive your dental work. His father, who is an architect with a long-standing fear of the dentist stemming from his childhood, did not want the dental offices of his son to look anything like a dental practice. For that reason, he designed and customized the interior of Ballantyne Center for Dentistry to appear exactly the opposite from what you would expect. In fact, he modeled it to appear like a high-end spa. Now, how can you be afraid of the dentist in such relaxing surroundings?

While the spa-like interior of Ballantine Center for Dentistry is extraordinarily beneficial to patients and the expert staff who work in the office, it does pose some problems of recognition. First-time patients at the gentle dentist practice of Ballantyne Center for Dentistry often will turn right around thinking that they have arrived at a spa and not the dentist. Fortunately, the office staff has become accustomed to this, and they will call after you to make sure you know you are in the right place. Of course, if you are reading this, then you will know exactly what to expect – a high-end, luxurious and stress-free environment, and a pain free dentist who is absolutely devoted to you and your twilight dentistry needs.

Experience what a sleep dentist can do in Charlotte NC

If you or your loved ones happen to live in the vicinity of Charlotte NC, then you do not have to worry if you are typically afraid of the dentist. You can go to Ballantyne Center for Dentistry and get the best dental care available under the care of a twilight dentistry and sedation dentistry expert. So, if you are afraid of the dentist, get in touch with Ballantyne Center for Dentistry, Charlotte’s cosmetic dentists, today.