Watertown Dental Dental Blog

Teeth Whitening Treatment in Watertown

Teeth Whitening Treatment Near Me

Do you want a whiter smile? Teeth whitening is a popular treatment
for discolored teeth. When it comes to teeth whitening, you have two
options; In-office treatments and home treatments. Teeth whitening
should be done right to avoid discomfort and sensitivity.

Both in-office and home treatments use peroxide-based bleaching
agents. You should consult your dentist before starting any teeth
whitening treatments.

In-Office Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening done by your dentist can get your teeth brighter more
quickly. Dentists use stronger bleaching solutions carefully
administered while considering the amount of time the solution is left
on your teeth.

You can expect your teeth to change from three to eight shades.
In-office sessions usually take approximately an hour over several
appointments. Most people are conscious of the cost. We we will create a
treatment plan that suits your budget.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

There are many choices when it comes to home treatments but we
recommend that you get the advice of your dentist before trying out any
of them.

Tooth whitening strips and gels – These are
applied directly to the teeth using a toothbrush on a daily basis. You
may notice results between 4 and 6 months of usage.

Tray-based tooth bleaching systems – This
involves wearing a device that looks like a guard which contains the
whitening product. You wear the tray for a few hours daily for
approximately 4 weeks.

Tooth whitening toothpaste – Normal
toothpaste helps to remove minor stains on your teeth. There are special
kinds of toothpaste designed with higher abrasion to drastically whiten
your teeth. Most whitening toothpastes brighten your teeth by one
shade.

Talk to your dentist before starting any home teeth whitening
treatment to ensure that it’s worth your time and money. If you are
looking for a teeth whitening treatment, call us to learn more about our
services.

Teeth Cleaning Near Me in Watertown

Teeth Cleaning Near Me

Regular teeth cleaning is important for your oral health.
Unfortunately, many people skip teeth cleaning procedures for one reason
or another. Speak to a dentist near you to schedule a simple, painless
teeth cleaning procedure.

If you have dental phobia knowing what to expect can clear your
doubts.

What to expect with teeth cleaning procedures

1. A physical exam

Teeth cleanings are mostly performed by a dental hygienist. Your
dental hygienist will begin by performing a physical exam of your entire
mouth.

The dental hygienist checks for signs of gingivitis (initial stages
of gum disease) using a small special mirror.

If they detect major problems, your dental hygienist will consult
with your dentist to discuss whether it is fine to proceed with the
cleaning.

2. Removing plaque and tartar

Plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth over time. Regular brushing
is not completely sufficient but during teeth cleaning your dental
hygienist uses a scaler to get rid of the plaque and tartar around your
gum line, as well as in between your teeth.

3. Gritty toothpaste cleaning

After your teeth are completely tartar-free, the hygienist brushes
them with a high-powered electric brushwhich makes a
grinding noise. This is a great way to get a deep clean and remove any
leftover tartar.

They’ll use toothpaste that has a gritty consistency that scrubs your
teeth. You should not use these kinds of toothpaste at home.

4. Expert flossing

Do you floss at home? Well, you should. Even so, your dental
hygienist will perform an expert flossing session.

5. Rinsing

Next, you rinse out your mouth to get rid of any debris. Your dental
hygienist will usually give you a rinse that contains liquid
fluoride.

6. Applying fluoride treatment

The last step of the cleaning process is a fluoride treatment. This
treatment is used as a protectant for your teeth to help fight against
cavities for several months.

Looking for a dental hygienist near you? Let’s clean your teeth, call
us.

Dental Crowns Near Me in Watertown

Dental Crowns Near Me

Dental crowns can be made of resin, metal, or porcelain. Find a
dental crown specialist near you.

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap used by dentists for restorative
purposes. The crown covers your entire tooth and hides cracks and
breakages.

Why would you need a crown?

Crowns are used for different restorative purposes. You may need a
dental crown to:

  • Hide a crack and prevent it from getting bigger

  • Strengthen a weak tooth

  • Restore a broken tooth

  • Hold a dental bridge in place

  • Cover a severely stained or discolored tooth

  • Protect a tooth that had a root canal treatment

  • Support a dental implant

Types of dental crowns

The type of crown you get depends on your preferences and advice from
your dentist. Here are the popular types.

Resin crowns

These are generally less expensive but not as durable as other types.
They are fragile and require gentle care.

Their average lifespan is 3 to 5 years.

Porcelain crowns

These look more like natural teeth than any other type. They resemble
the appearance of tooth enamel.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns

As the name suggests, these combine the durability of metal and the
natural look of porcelain to give you durable crowns that look more like
natural teeth.

Pressed ceramic crowns

These are similar to porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns but
instead of metal, they use ceramic. Dentists use pressed ceramic crowns
on the front and back teeth.

Metal crowns

These are crowns made of gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium. They
are long-lasting and strong enough to sustain hard biting and
chewing.

Ready for a dental crown? If you suspect you are a candidate for
dental crowns, talk to us today to schedule an appointment with a dental
crown specialist.

Dental Exam and Cleaning Near Me in Watertown

Dental Exam & Cleaning Near Me

Dental exams and cleaning are absolutely important, find a dentist
near you to get started. As part of maintaining your oral health, a
dental exam involves a thorough evaluation of your teeth, gums, and
mouth in general which may include X-rays. Dental cleaning on the other
hand involves the removal of tartar and bacteria to help you prevent
cavities.

At our dental office, we strive to provide you with excellent dental
exams and cleaning using the latest technology. If it’s been a while
since you last had a dental exam and cleaning, make a point to book an
appointment with us as soon as possible.

Issues we handle during dental exams &
cleaning

Teeth & gum cleaning

Plaque can build up and cause tooth decay. We clean your teeth and
gums to remove bacteria and significantly lower your risk of
cavities.

Dental X-rays

We use low levels of radiation to capture images of the interior of
your teeth and gums. The images help us detect any underlying issues
before they cause severe damage.

Dental check-ups

As part of our routine exams, we provide you with a general checkup
on your mouth, face, neck, and head to check for any
inconsistencies.

Oral cancer screening

A dental exam is a perfect opportunity to check for early signs of
oral cancer. As with any type of cancer, early detection is key to
successful treatment.

Getting regular dental exams and cleaning helps you stay on top of
your oral health. We offer services to children and adults. During your
visit, you will learn more about proper brushing and flossing
techniques. If you have dental problems such as bad breath or gum
disease, dental exams mark the start of your treatment. Talk to us today
to get dental exams and cleaning near you.

Types of Dental Crowns, Which To Choose | Watertown MN

When it comes to choosing dental crowns to repair a damaged tooth, there are several dental materials that you can choose from. However, porcelain-fused-to-metal is arguably the most common material because of its unique combination of mechanical strength and aesthetic results. In addition, it’s said to be of an acceptable biologic quality that is needed for periodontal health. 

That said, porcelain-metal blends may not be as readily available because their fabrication requires a high level of workmanship and the use of precious metals which have become increasingly costly. Some patients also dislike the metal framework, which may be visible when you smile depending on the tooth being restored. 

As such, your dentist may recommend alternative tooth-colored materials for your custom permanent crown, such as:

  • All Porcelain Crowns – Dental crowns that are fabricated entirely from porcelain are referred to as all-porcelain crowns, while those made entirely from ceramic are known as all-ceramic crowns. 
  • All-Resin Crowns – Dental composite resin crowns are highly affordable, but are arguably the weakest material for crowns since they’re prone to chipping, cracking, and rapid wear. 
  • Zirconium – Crowns made from this material are as strong and durable as metal crowns and natural-looking for an aesthetic restoration. Zirconia crowns are biocompatible and won’t cause allergic reactions, plus they can be fabricated at the dentist’s office for same-day crown restorations. 

Which Crown Should You Choose?

Each dental crown material has various pros and cons that should be carefully evaluated before choosing your permanent crown restoration. You can also choose metal crowns made from gold, platinum, and alloys like nickel-chromium and cobalt-chromium for a stronger and more durable restoration.  Your dentist will help you make the right choice based on your specific dental needs. 


To learn more about Dental Crowns in Watertown MN please contact us today.

Importance of Dental Exam & Teeth Cleaning in Watertown MN

No matter how diligent your at-home oral care routine is, harmful bacteria can still hide in your mouth in places that are hard to reach with regular brushing and flossing. After some time, the accumulated plaque and tartar can pose serious risks to your oral health and even affect your overall health if the bacteria spreads from your mouth to various body tissues. As such, it should be removed by a dental professional using specialized oral cleaning tools at a recommended interval. 

Bacteria Growth in Your Mouth 

The warm and moist environment in your mouth is very hospitable for the growth of bacteria, which manifests as:

  • Plaque – the biofilm formed by bacteria colonies living in your mouth. It is responsible for producing acid that can wear your teeth causing cavities and/or damage gums if not continuously removed by regular brushing
  • Tartar or calculus – forms when plaque is not removed properly, causing it to calcify and mineralize into a hard substance that attracts more harmful bacteria. Calculus can only be removed during dental cleanings using specialized tools. 

Dental Cleanings Prevent Gum Disease 

Bacteria in your mouth can accumulate to a point where it becomes active and destructive, resulting in gum infection. The first stage of gum infection is known as gingivitis, and is characterized by gum inflammation, swelling, and reddening. Due to sensitive gums, you may also notice some blood on your toothbrush or when rinsing your mouth after brushing. Fortunately, gingivitis can be successfully treated with professional dental cleaning and an improved at-home oral care routine. 

If there are no interventions, gingivitis can advance to a more serious case of gum disease known as periodontitis or periodontal disease. It affects the foundation of your teeth – the bone tissue connecting your teeth to the jaw. If not treated promptly, periodontitis can cause severe bone loss that loosens your teeth with some even falling out. Though it’s irreversible, dental professionals can help you manage the symptoms and improve your oral health. 

Schedule Your Dental Cleaning Today 

Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to determine the best type of dental cleaning in Watertown MN to improve your oral health and reduce the risk of advanced gum disease and cavities. 

5 Questions to Consider Before Scheduling your Teeth Whitening Treatment | Watertown MN

If you’re planning to get your teeth whitened, it’s important that you do your research to find the right dentist and dental practice. The bleaching procedure is generally safe and effective when done by a dentist during the first visit, and under a dentist’s supervision for subsequent treatments. That said, everyone should first visit a dentist for a thorough examination and diagnosis to ensure you’re a good candidate for a safe, brighter, whiter smile.

Here are some questions to help you choose the right dentist:

Can teeth cleaning and polishing brighten my teeth without bleaching?

Professional teeth cleaning and polishing is done in order to remove calculus and surface stains caused by colored drinks like tea and red wine, tobacco products, foods, and so on. However, this will not change the color of stained or yellowing teeth. Teeth cleaning can help you remove deep stains and discoloration that won’t go away with routine cleaning and polishing.

How is in-office teeth whitening done?

The dentist applies a bleaching product (usually hydrogen peroxide) on the surface of your teeth using trays that fit snugly on your teeth. The trays stay in place for a short period of time to break down the agent into oxygen, which then penetrates tooth enamel to change the shade of your teeth.

Will I achieve the results I want?

Yes. Most cases of tooth whitening are successful. That said, the treatments work differently depending on the extent of discoloration or staining at the start of the procedure. Fortunately, your dentist will discuss with you about your treatment plan and inform you beforehand about the best way to whiten your teeth, any difficulties, and even the expected results.

Can teeth whitening be done outside a dentist’s office?

It’s recommended that you consult a dentist to design your bleaching plan that can then be done in the office or at home with a customized teeth whitening kit. This is important because dentists are trained to choose the best treatment plan for your case; estimate the improvement in shade that you will achieve; and inform you how long your treatment will last.

In which situations might tooth whitening be unsuccessful?

Tooth whitening only helps to improve the shade of your natural teeth. This means that it may not be successful when used on unhealthy teeth, teeth with exposed roots, or teeth that have been restored with fillings, crowns, veneers, or have received root treatments. 

Please consult your dentist to discuss your bleaching plan and the expected results of your teeth whitening treatment. 

Are You Looking for the Best Dentist in Watertown MN?

At our dental practice, we are dedicated to providing excellent and top-class dental services and solutions. Our goal is for you and your family to achieve an outstanding level of dental hygiene and oral health. Our dentists are experienced and qualified professionals in a variety of dental services, including cosmetic dentistry, general dentistry, and advanced procedures.

In addition, we offer general dentistry, cleanings, veneers, crowns & bridges, among other dental procedures. Our compassionate team will work diligently to perform the dental procedure and offer a lasting solution to your dental issues. When you need the best dentist near you for dental cleaning, treatment, or procedures, our dental practice remains the ideal place to visit. 

What Every Patient Can Expect at Our Dental Practice

Our dental office understands the importance of understanding each person’s unique needs. For this reason, we offer customized care for any member of your family.

When you visit our dental practice, you can expect:

• Excellent and prompt dental services.
• Dental procedures performed with the latest techniques and state-of-the-art dental equipment.
• A comfortable and serene environment.
• Professionalism that will surpass your expectations.

We believe that our patients deserve only the best, which is why we provide excellent and reliable dental services. We are proud to be the preferred choice of many individuals and families since we realize that it’s not just about teeth but also about a caring and compassionate environment.

Looking for the Best Dentist Near Me? Contact Us Today!

Looking for the best dentist in your area? Call our dental practice to schedule a consultation with one of our qualified dentists. Our experienced team will be available to speak with you and help you understand your possible dental treatment options. We will recommend a dental procedure or solution that works best for you.

What are the Benefits of Tooth Colored Fillings? Watertown MN

Tooth colored filling is a common dental treatment used to fill cavities or restore decayed and damaged teeth. It requires the dentist to choose a filling material that has the same shade as your natural teeth when filling the cavity. This allows you to discreetly repair your teeth and restore them to their full form and function, while enhancing the beauty of your smile.

Here are some reasons to get white, tooth-colored fillings:

  • They provide a strong and durable material that can help restore decayed teeth, repair chipped teeth, and close unsightly gaps between your teeth.
  • They look natural compared to your own teeth. This is because the filling material is matched to your natural tooth color and then bonded directly to the tooth, giving you a restoration that is both discrete and understated.
  • The procedure is short and takes about an hour, so you don’t have to miss a full-day of work to repair your teeth. That said, the actual time taken to get the white fillings depends on different factors, including the cavity size, its location, and the number of fillings required. 

Are White, Tooth Colored Fillings Right for you?

To determine whether white tooth colored filling is right for you, it is important that you consider your dental treatment requirements. This will require you to visit your dentist for a thorough examination of the damaged or decayed tooth, followed by customization of the tooth-colored fillings to match your enamel so it blends in when you smile. Please call our office to book your consultation appointment. 

Contact Us Today!

White tooth colored filling remains an excellent option to restore your teeth because of the numerous benefits it offers. If you still have more questions about white tooth colored filling, contact our dental practice today. Our dentists will be available to discuss with you and provide suitable answers to your questions and concerns.

Infected Tooth Extraction Near Me, Watertown MN

There are different levels of tooth infections, ranging from cavities to pulpitis and eventually an abscess. Poor dental hygiene can allow plaque to build up and form cavities on the surface of your teeth. Tooth injury and dental procedures can also lead to tooth fractures that trap bacteria and allow plaque to build up. Cavities are usually not painful, and many people tend to ignore them unless they cause discomfort or become a cosmetic concern.

If the cavity is not filled or the tooth crowned promptly, bacteria may continue to erode the tooth until it reaches the pulp, resulting in pulpitis. This is when people begin to experience a toothache or sensitivity that is aggravated by hot and cold liquids and foods. At this point, the infection can be removed and the tooth restored via root canal therapy. But if left untreated and the infection continues to spread through the tooth, it may form a pocket of pus known as an abscess. Successful treatment of an abscess requires the pus to be drained and the administration of antibiotics to manage the infection.

When is tooth extraction recommended?

Tooth extraction may be necessary if the tooth is too damaged to be saved, such that it has to be pulled out in order to drain the abscess. But if you’re dealing with an impacted tooth that has become infected, it might be more suitable to treat the infection before performing oral surgery to remove the tooth. This is because extracting the tooth before treatment may allow the infection to spread and cause other complications, including compromising the healing process after tooth extraction. So your dentist may recommend treating the infection before tooth removal to reduce these risks. Moreover, treating the infection will reduce the symptoms and enhance your comfort before, during, and after tooth extraction.

Keep in mind that you may have to take pain medication and some antibiotics for a few days before your surgical tooth removal to remove bacteria in the area, as well as after tooth extraction to prevent infection when healing.

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of a tooth infection, please visit your dentist as soon as possible to save the tooth or schedule an extraction.

Watertown Dental Dental Offer

New Patient Exam Xrays and Regular Cleaning $67

Includes consultation, exam, and x-rays. In the absence of periodontal disease. New Patients Only

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Watertown Dental Dental Offer

Invisalign

With advances in dental technologies, it is now possible to straighten your teeth discreetly without the use of traditional metal braces.

Learn more