HOW TO GET GREAT RESULTS WITH TEETH WHITENING?

The longer I deliver cosmetic dentistry in Monterey, I find that the best results come less from the products (for example, Zoom Teeth whitening, or Nite-White teeth whitening gel), and MORE from great communication with our patients.

For example, earlier today, I received an online question from a cosmetic dentistry patient in another state. She had Zoom Teeth Whitening and wound up with a fairly serious chemical burn on the gum of her front tooth. While she will probably be fine, I’m sure it was scary and alarming to have a big white ulcer on the gum next to her front tooth.

Candidly, anytime you are dealing with the human body, there is a (small) potential for a complication. I find that these surprises or disappointments can almost be 100% avoided by good communication before, during and after the procedure.

Later today, I had the chance to see one of my favorite patients who is starting to whiten his teeth. We talked for quite a few minutes about how to stay comfortable during the process and also a lot about what exactly to expect.

After more than fifteen years as a cosmetic dentist in Monterey, I have found we consistently get great results, by first, seeking to understand exactly what our patients want, then tailoring one of the many options to deliver results. Then we tell our patients what to expect each step of the way.

Oh, and we encourage constant input and try to have great accessibility to any questions they have along the way.

Problems and disappointments with teeth whitening (or other cosmetic dentistry procedures like porcelain veneers, bonding, or smile makeovers), can be avoided!

RAISINS: BEAUTIFY YOUR SMILE!

These sugary, sticky treats were once thought to cause cavities, but recent research done at the University Of Illinois reveals the opposite is true: Raisins actually bolster your protection against tooth decay and even gum disease.

They’re a top food source of oleanolic acid, which protects tooth enamel and gum tissue by scrubbing away plaque buildup and, even better, preventing it from sticking in the first place!

Raisins are very good for promoting dental health as they are rich in calcium and boron.

Raisins also have antibacterial compounds that prevent gingivitis, an inflammatory gum disease that raises the risk of heart attack and stroke, since germs in the gums can find their way into the bloodstream.

What's On Your Dental Wish List?

A cosmetic dental consultation is informative and enjoyable. As the patient, you’ll have the opportunity to describe your goals and expectations. If this is your first visit to the practice, you’ll discover how comfortable you feel with our dentist and other members of the treatment team. Cosmetic dentistry consultations help us provide the highest level of Monterey Peninsula dental care.

This is the time to ask questions about possible procedures such as teeth whitening. You can look at pictures of actual porcelain veneer patients and dental implant recipients. Our cosmetic dentistry patients really get excited when they see images of the possible results for their teeth.

By listening effectively and asking the right questions, Dr. Jeanette Kern can fully assess the many variables unique to your needs.

Dr. Kern thoroughly examines teeth, gums and biting function. Complete x-rays are taken. Existing dental work, tooth color, tooth alignment, and gum condition are taken into consideration. Medical history and lifestyle are also important factors. Cosmetic dentistry costs are outlined.

Taking the first step by scheduling a cosmetic dental consultation is your key to understanding your options and preparing to make decisions. Learn about the possibilities for your smile at Jeanette Kern DDS, “Perfecting Smiles – Enriching Lives”; give us a call at 831-372-8011.

Where Will You Take Your Smile Today?

YOU TAKE YOUR CLOTHES OFF and you put different clothes on. But when it comes to your smile, you take it EVERYWHERE you go. Do you like your smile? If you could… Is there some little thing you’d change? Some big thing you’d change?

NEWS FLASH!!
Today’s smile design techniques and materials, combined with the artistic skills of Dr. Jeanette M. Kern, make having a drop-dead-gorgeous smile easier and more affordable than ever. If you’re a little unfamiliar with some of the terminology behind smile design, here’s a short course:

Whitening - Sometimes called “tooth bleaching”, smile whitening is the most common cosmetic dental procedure. While many whitening options are now available—including over the counter products—dentist-supervised treatments remain the recommended procedures for lightening discolored teeth.

Contouring - Contouring is sometimes called “tooth reshaping”. Contouring can sometimes be used to correct minimally crooked teeth, chipped teeth, cracked teeth or an overlapping tooth. It’s a procedure of subtle changes and is commonly used to alter the length, shape or position of teeth.

Bonding - Bonding is a process in which enamel-like dental composite materials are applied to a tooth’s surface, then sculpted into shape and polished.

Veneers - Veneers are thin, custom-made porcelain laminates that are bonded directly teeth. They’re an option for closing gaps or disguising discolored teeth that do not respond well to whitening procedures. Sometimes, tooth reduction may be necessary.

Minimal Prep Veneers - The popularity of prepless veneers is being driven in part by increased patient desire to prevent removal of healthy tooth structure. But not all cases are right for minimal-prep veneers.

The best way to determine what’s right for you and your smile? Simply talk to Dr. Kern. I'm passionate about people’s smiles. Our office has seen beautiful smiles make a huge difference in people’s social lives and careers. It feels good to not be embarrassed to smile. We look forward to visiting with you! Call us at 831-372-8011.