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How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns are durable, long-lasting restorations that cover and protect damaged teeth. They generally last between 10 and 15 years, though with proper care, they could last a lifetime. This blog provides a complete guide to dental crowns and shares how you can help your crowns last longer.

Uses of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a versatile restoration with many possible applications:

  • Restore teeth that are too damaged to receive a filling due to breakage or decay.
  • Restore a discolored tooth for aesthetic reasons.
  • Prevent weak teeth from breakage
  • Provide a strong attachment point for dental bridges.
  • Protect and restore a tooth that has undergone a root canal.

How Dental Crowns Work

A dental crown, also called a cap, fits over a prepared natural tooth. It strengthens and restores the damaged tooth.

Step 1: Impressions

First, your dentist takes digital or physical impressions to help your new crown match your original tooth.

Step 2: Preparation

Your dentist removes decayed material and smooths rough or broken edges. This simple process generally requires only local anesthesia.

Step 3: Impressions

After preparation, your dentist will take a second set of impressions to ensure the crown fits the prepared tooth.

Step 4: Fabricating the Crown

Your dentist sends the impressions to a laboratory for crown design and fabrication.

Step 5: Adjustments

Your dentist will adjust the crown and the opposite teeth to provide a natural, comfortable bite.

Step 6: Final Placement

Your dentist cements the crown in place and ensures it functions appropriately.

Material Choices for Dental Crowns

Dentists have several options to choose from:

  • Ceramic: Made of advanced materials, ceramic crowns are durable and attractive.
  • Porcelain: These crowns appear the most natural, so many patients prefer them in the front of the mouth. They are durable and stain-resistant.
  • Metal: Some patients prefer metal crowns on molars because they withstand grinding. Metal crowns can also have a porcelain coating that improves their appearance.
  • Gold: A gold alloy crown is the most durable but also the most costly.

Advantages of Dental Crowns

Restore the Tooth's Full Function

Dental crowns feel very much like natural teeth. You can chew nearly all foods normally.

Keep Natural Roots Intact

In general, dental professionals prefer to leave the original roots in place because they keep the jawbone strong and protect your oral health. Dental crowns restore teeth without interfering with the natural root system.

Restore a Healthy Appearance

Broken and discolored teeth can affect one's self-confidence. A new crown that matches the original, undamaged tooth can complete one's smile.

Factors Affecting The Longevity of a Dental Crown

  • Material: Metal and gold alloys are the most durable crowns, followed by ceramic.
  • Position: Crowns endure more pressure in the back of the mouth, where most chewing takes place.
  • Dental Bite: If you have an uneven dental bite, your crowns may receive uneven pressure and become prone to cracking.
  • Oral Hygiene: Ensure that you brush and floss as recommended. Take special care to floss around your dental crowns. Keep all regularly scheduled dental appointments.
  • Seek Dental Care: If you have a problem with your crown or if it falls out, see your dentist as soon as possible for a repair or replacement. If you address the issue promptly, your dentist can often cement the crown back in place.

Tips to Protect Your Dental Crown

Address Teeth Grinding

Bruxism (chronic teeth grinding) can weaken crowns, especially with an uneven dental bite. If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist for a custom mouthguard to protect them from damage.

Choose Foods Carefully

You should be cautious when eating hard and sticky foods like nuts and caramel. These foods can break or dislodge your crown. Chew these foods on the other side of your mouth, or avoid them entirely.

Keep Your Crown Clean

Excellent oral hygiene keeps your crown, gums, and the surrounding teeth in the best possible condition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

Will I experience any discomfort after getting a new crown?

New crowns take about a week to settle. Your gums also need time to adapt to the new crown. You may experience minor discomfort for up to two weeks, but if you continue to feel it, contact us immediately to resolve the issue.

At Perfect Smile Dental Studio, we specialize in restoring healthy smiles. We can create dental crowns to protect and restore your teeth. Please contact us at our Lutz, FL, office to schedule your consultation today!

How often do you go to the Dentist? When was your last dental cleaning? If you’re having a hard time answering these questions, you may be overdue for an appointment. Regular dental visits are important for your oral health as well as your general well-being. According to Dentists you should have your teeth cleaned every 6 months.    If you’re not used to receiving regular dental care, there are some excellent reasons to start. Consider the top 3 reasons to see your Dentist regularly.   

1. Maintain Your Oral Health. 

The ultimate goal of regular dental appointments is to maintain your oral health. The term preventive dentistry is used in many cases to describe routine dental care that should be scheduled twice a year. This is because the goal of regular dental appointments is to prevent oral health problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing and flossing at home is your first line of defense against these concerns, but professional dental care is just as important. Your Dentist can remove plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) that is left behind after brushing and flossing before it can cause irreparable damage to your teeth and their support structures.   

2. Improve Your General Health and Wellness. 

Oral health is an indicator of your general health and wellness. Tooth decay and gum disease have been linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory conditions, and even cancer. Going to the Dentist on a regular schedule is just as important to your overall health as annual checkups with your primary care physician.    Tooth decay and gum disease are both caused by oral bacteria. Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissue that if it progresses without treatment, can enter your bloodstream and spread to the rest of your organs. Treatment of gum disease in the early stages, or preferably prevention, can eliminate a lifelong problem.   

3. Safeguard Your Smile. 

A healthy smile is an attractive smile. Regular dental cleanings help keep your teeth looking clean and bright. It also prevents tooth decay, staining, and missing teeth that could have a negative impact on your smile. When your smile is healthy you feel more confident, and confidence is a fundamental part of your mental and emotional well-being. Confidence can affect your personal and professional life in a wide variety of ways. Make sure you can smile with confidence by scheduling regular dental visits. 

Bonus: Dental Insurance Covers Preventive Dentistry 

If you have dental insurance, preventive dental appointments are typically covered at 100% twice a year or every 6 months. Most patients will pay nothing out of pocket unless additional treatment is required. Even without insurance, preventive dental care is very affordable. Payment and financing options are available when needed.   

Frequently Asked Questions About Preventive Dentistry 

How long does a dental cleaning take?

A regular dental cleaning may take about 45 minutes. If dental X-rays are needed it can take slightly longer, but less than an hour at the very most. 

Why are dental cleanings required twice a year?

The typical rate at which people develop plaque on their teeth and the rate at which it hardens into calculus averages around 6 months. This means that having your teeth cleaned twice a year significantly reduces your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.   

Schedule Your Appointment Today 

If it's been more than 6 months since you have been to the dentist, it is time to make an appointment. Call Perfect Smile Dental Studio today at or contact us to schedule your next visit and enjoy improved oral health, general wellness, and a healthy smile.

Stained, discolored teeth can interfere with your self-esteem and quality of life. If you want a more brilliant smile, you may be curious about your teeth whitening options.

Today, dental professionals offer multiple whitening options using safe, well-tested bleaching agents. This blog explains how professional teeth whitening works and contrasts it with over-the-counter options.

About Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional whitening is the fastest, safest, and longest-lasting option for brightening teeth. It uses gels made with carbamide or hydrogen peroxide. Peroxide is a unique compound that enters natural pores in the tooth enamel, eliminating staining from the inside in a process called oxidation.

Your Teeth Whitening Options

Option #1: At-Home Whitening

At-home whitening processes combine professional-strength products with the convenience of treatment in your home. Your dentist takes digital or traditional impressions of your teeth and uses these to create custom whitening trays. At home, you fill the trays with a specialized version of professional whitening gel. The length of time you wear the trays depends on your desired results. Within just a few weeks, you will have a brilliant smile.

Option #2: In-Office Bleaching

Another option for professional whitening is to receive chairside treatment. This method is faster than at-home whitening and provides more dramatic results.

Option #3: Over-the-Counter Whitening

Patients who feel professional whitening is inconvenient or too costly sometimes turn to over-the-counter whitening. Most products purchased in retail stores and pharmacies are safe when used according to the directions, but they may take an extended time to work.

While the sticker price of over-the-counter whitening seems lower, you may spend an equivalent amount to get the same results as you would with a professional regimen.

Keeping Your Teeth Brighter Longer

  • Avoid staining foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark chocolate
  • Be cautious with acidic foods like soda and citrus
  • Practice excellent oral hygiene
  • Attend all scheduled appointments for professional cleanings and exams

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening

Can I get my sensitive teeth whitened?

Your dentist can adjust the concentration of your whitening gel and provide treatments to reduce sensitivity,

Is activated charcoal safe for teeth whitening?

Activated charcoal is a coarse product that may polish away surface stains, but it can cause severe enamel damage and is best avoided.

Call Perfect Smile Dental Studio

If you want to bring back your dazzling, youthful smile, call our Lutz, FL, office at to discuss our teeth whitening options. We look forward to meeting you and learning about your needs!

Dentists recommend that most patients get their teeth professionally cleaned twice yearly. However, some patients skip or delay cleaning appointments for months or years.

A professional teeth cleaning is one of the simplest, most effective ways to improve your oral health. Your hygienist expertly removes plaque, tartar, and food particles from your teeth, reducing your chance of developing tooth decay and gum disease.

This blog explains the many advantages of keeping up with regular teeth cleanings and answers our patients' most commonly asked questions.

Advantage #1: Control Plaque and Tartar

Hygienists expertly remove every trace of plaque and tartar from a patient's teeth. Some patients skip professional cleanings because they believe they have excellent oral hygiene and do not need the help.

While patients can remove plaque and food particles at home, only a dental professional can remove tartar, a hard substance formed when plaque bacteria and food particles solidify. Tartar releases bacterial waste products that infect and gradually break down the gums and bone supporting your teeth, leading to gum disease and potential tooth loss. Regular cleanings keep this substance at bay.

Advantage #2: Screen for Oral Abnormalities

Dentists perform comprehensive oral examinations as part of many cleaning appointments. They check the structure, condition, and health of teeth, gums, and the head and neck. They also check for potential signs of oral cancer, a disease that sometimes goes undetected but is highly treatable in the early stages.

Advantage #3: Detect Oral Health Issues Early

Regular cleaning appointments allow your dentist to monitor developing issues like tooth decay. Treating early-stage cavities is much easier than repairing extensive damage with a filling or crown.

Advantage #4: Save Money Over Time

The earlier your dentist can address oral health issues, the lower your lifetime dental costs will be. Advanced decay can lead to root canals, extractions, and costly replacements like bridges and implants.

Advantage #5: Brighten Your Smile

Teeth cleanings remove surface stains with a gritty but gentle polish. After a cleaning, your teeth will look and feel their best.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Cleanings

When should my child have their first dental cleaning?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association recommend that children visit the dentist for the first time between six months and one year of age. The first visit may involve a gentle cleaning if needed. As your child's teeth erupt, their dentist will clean them more regularly. Children should see the dentist every six months going forward or more often if they have risk factors for decay or other oral health issues.

Does my dental insurance cover cleanings?

Most dental insurance policies cover the cost of preventive care, including cleanings and comprehensive exams. Check your coverage before scheduling an appointment. Take advantage of this benefit to secure your family's oral health.

At Perfect Smile Dental Studio, we believe that teeth cleanings are the foundation of excellent oral health. Even if it has been some time since your last visit, don't hesitate to contact our office to schedule a cleaning today. It's never too late to improve your oral health.

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking the plank (or just catching a sea of beads), the Gasparilla Pirate Festival in Tampa, Florida, is your ultimate destination. The 2025 Gasparilla Pirate Festival will be happening on Saturday, January 25, 2025 from 11:30 am – 8 pm. Rooted in legend, history, and a hearty sense of adventure, Gasparilla combines family-friendly fun with swashbuckling excitement. Let’s explore the history behind the event, the legendary pirates of Tampa Bay, and what makes Gasparilla a can’t-miss spectacle.

The History of Gasparilla and Pirates in Tampa Bay

The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is inspired by the tales of José Gaspar, a Spanish pirate who allegedly terrorized the waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Known as “Gasparilla,” he was said to be a formidable and cunning pirate, commanding a fleet of ships and a crew loyal to his daring escapades.

While historians debate the veracity of José Gaspar’s story, the legend endures. According to lore, Gaspar buried treasures along Florida’s shores, only to meet his demise in a dramatic naval battle with the U.S. Navy. His legacy lives on, not just in Tampa Bay’s festival but also in the romanticized image of pirates who once navigated these waters.

Tampa Bay’s real pirate history is equally intriguing. During the Golden Age of Piracy (1650–1720), the Gulf Coast saw its share of pirate activity. Pirates targeted merchant ships laden with valuable goods like tobacco, sugar, and gold. The region's strategic location made it an attractive haven for smugglers and privateers. While some tales remain shrouded in myth, Tampa's waters undoubtedly saw pirate-infused drama.

Gasparilla Pirate Festival: A Modern-Day Invasion

The first Gasparilla festival took place in 1904, launched by Tampa’s civic leaders as a way to promote the city. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest parades in the United States, attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees annually.

The highlight of the festival is the pirate “invasion,” led by Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, a civic organization founded in 1904. Dressed as pirates, the Krewe arrives on a fully-rigged ship, the Jose Gasparilla II, and “captures” the city. Following the invasion, a spectacular parade takes over Bayshore Boulevard, featuring floats, music, and a shower of beads tossed to eager spectators.

The Events That Make Gasparilla Special

Gasparilla is more than just a parade—it’s a series of interconnected events that cater to a wide audience. Here are some of the standout attractions:

  1. Gasparilla Children’s Parade
    Held the week before the main event, the Children’s Parade offers a family-friendly atmosphere with smaller floats, fun activities, and a fireworks display to end the evening.
  2. Gasparilla Distance Classic
    For fitness enthusiasts, this road race spans two days and offers distances from a 5K to a half-marathon. It’s a great way to combine health and the spirit of celebration.
  3. Gasparilla Night Parade
    Taking place in Tampa’s historic Ybor City, this nighttime event features illuminated floats, music, and an energetic crowd.
  4. Gasparilla Music Festival
    Held in March, this festival celebrates local and national musicians across multiple genres, blending music with the pirate theme.
  5. Art and Film Festivals
    Tampa’s creative community shines through these events, which showcase local artists, filmmakers, and performers.

The Gasparilla Experience: Tips for First-Timers

  1. Arrive Early: Crowds can be massive, especially for the main parade. Get there early to secure a good spot.
  2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking (and standing) a lot.
  3. Dress the Part: Pirate costumes are not mandatory but highly encouraged. You’ll fit right in with the sea of eyepatches and tricorne hats.
  4. Bead Etiquette: If you’re catching beads, avoid aggressive grabbing. The fun is in the playful competition, not the chaos.
  5. Plan Your Transportation: Parking is limited, so consider public transportation or ride-sharing services.

Why Gasparilla Matters to Tampa

Gasparilla is more than just an annual party. It’s a celebration of Tampa’s unique identity, bringing together locals and visitors for a shared cultural experience. The festival generates significant economic impact, drawing tourists from around the world and boosting local businesses.

From a historical perspective, Gasparilla serves as a reminder of the region’s maritime past, blending myth and reality into a vibrant story that unites the community.

Top 10 FAQs About Gasparilla

  1. What is Gasparilla?
    Gasparilla is an annual pirate-themed festival in Tampa, Florida, inspired by the legend of pirate José Gaspar. It features parades, music, and other events.
  2. When does Gasparilla take place?
    The main events typically occur in late January, but related activities, such as the music and art festivals, continue into March.
  3. Is the Gasparilla Pirate Festival family-friendly?
    Yes! Events like the Children’s Parade are specifically designed for families, while the main parade offers excitement for all ages.
  4. What is the best way to get to Gasparilla?
    Arrive early and use public transportation or ride-sharing services. Parking can be challenging due to large crowds.
  5. Do I need to dress up as a pirate?
    It’s not required, but dressing up adds to the fun. Pirate costumes are a staple of the festival.
  6. Is Gasparilla free to attend?
    Yes, the parade and many events are free, though some areas may offer reserved seating for a fee. Other activities, like the music festival, may have ticket costs.
  7. What’s the history behind José Gaspar?
    José Gaspar, or Gasparilla, is a legendary pirate said to have operated along Florida’s Gulf Coast. While his existence is debated, his legend fuels the festival’s theme.
  8. What safety measures should I take during Gasparilla?
    Stick to well-lit areas, keep your belongings secure, and stay hydrated. With large crowds, it’s essential to be mindful of your surroundings.
  9. Are pets allowed at Gasparilla?
    Pets are generally not recommended due to the large crowds and loud noises.
  10. How can I participate in Gasparilla as a performer or vendor?
    Contact the festival’s organizers through the official Gasparilla website for opportunities to join as a performer, vendor, or sponsor.

Gasparilla isn’t just a festival; it’s an adventure—a lively, colorful, and immersive experience that captures the spirit of Tampa Bay. Whether you’re drawn to the mythical tales of pirates, the thrill of a parade, or the vibrant sense of community, Gasparilla has something for everyone. So grab your pirate gear and prepare to set sail for an unforgettable journey!

Contact the Perfect Smile Dental Studio

Are you excited to show off your pearly whites at the Gasparilla festival? Don't forget to schedule an appointment with Perfect Smile Dental Studio to ensure your smile shines as bright as the festivities! Contact us today to book your appointment. We can't wait to help you achieve the perfect smile that matches the vibrant spirit of Gasparilla!

While dentists recommend daily flossing to all their patients, many have difficulty keeping up with this vital activity. Patients may feel uneasy about flossing because they do not want their gums to bleed or do not know the proper technique.

 

This blog discusses the reasons you should consider flossing daily and provides a step-by-step guide to this crucial activity.

The Importance of Flossing

Removes Plaque and Food Particles

By removing plaque and food particles, flossing lowers the chance that harmful bacteria will grow in your mouth and cause gum disease and tooth decay.

Control Gum Disease

You can reverse gingivitis (the earliest stage of gum disease and reduce bleeding gums with proper attention to home care and regular dental visits.

Freshens Breath

Bad breath or halitosis is a common problem among patients with poor oral hygiene. Flossing removes particles that can attract bacteria and affect your breath.

Protects Against Decay and Tooth Loss

Decay can turn severe and undermine your tooth's structure. If too much of your tooth becomes compromised by decay, you will likely need an extraction and replacement. You may be able to receive a root canal to save your tooth if the decay spreads to the pulp chamber, but enough remaining material would support a crown.

Choosing Your Equipment

You have three main options for flossing your teeth:

  • Standard floss: This type of floss is the best-known. It consists of a waxed string or tape that patients guide between their teeth using their fingers.
  • Floss picks: If you prefer not to use regular floss, you can also choose a floss pick. A pick is a small Y-shaped plastic object with a piece of floss held taut at one end.
  • Water flosser: Many patients enjoy the convenience of a water flosser, especially if they have an aversion to putting their hands in their mouths.

Flossing Step-By-Step

  1. Cut about 18" of dental floss from your dispenser. Wrap each end around your middle fingers.
  2. Hold the floss between your thumb and forefinger. Keep a one- to two-inch length in the center that will slide between your teeth.
  3. Manage the floss with your thumbs. Floss between teeth gently back and forth.
  4. To access the gumline, curve your floss in a C-shape. Slide the dental floss between your teeth carefully and move gently below the gumline.
  5. Wind your floss to a new section whenever you switch teeth to avoid transferring debris.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flossing Teeth

I don't have much time to floss my teeth. What should I do?

Flossing takes only minutes per day. When you consider the impact of the time spent flossing versus the extra dental costs you will incur, you will realize the investment pays off. To save some time, you could try using a floss pick or water flosser.

How many times a day do I need to floss?

Floss once a day. This positive step toward maintaining your oral health will bring many benefits.

Call Perfect Smile Dental Studio

Even if you have not flossed your teeth in some time, we encourage you to start. To receive flossing tips, schedule an appointment with our hygienists by calling

. We would be glad to help you regain control of your oral health.

Many dental patients feel unsatisfied with their smiles. They may have esthetic issues like chipped, stained, broken, or missing teeth. Feeling uncomfortable with your smile can change the way you think of yourself.

Cosmetic dentists aim to help you feel great about your smile and how you look. They want to help you improve not only your appearance but also your oral health.

Some patients hesitate before asking their dentist how cosmetic dentistry can change their lives. They may believe cosmetic dentistry is an unnecessary expense. However, you will find that the benefits go beyond your appearance.

Reason #1: Improve Your Self-Image

If you have difficulty with your teeth, you already know how much it can impact your self-image. You may feel like you have to hide your smile in public.

Cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile and, by extension, how you think about your appearance. When you feel more confident in how you look, you'll approach life in a new way. Smiling more may attract personal and professional opportunities.

Reason #2: Improve Your Oral and Overall Health

Many cosmetic procedures have significant oral health benefits. For example, Invisalign® encourages teeth to move to healthy positions, making it significantly easier to keep away plaque and food build-up that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

In turn, lower rates of tooth decay and gum disease have a strong association with improved overall health. Patients with poor oral hygiene are more likely to develop cardiovascular problems, stroke, and diabetes.

Reason #3: Improve Tooth Function

Many restorative procedures, such as crowns and bridges, have a dual cosmetic purpose. With a new crown, bridge, or implant, you will be able to eat, talk, and smile as you would with a natural tooth.

Cosmetic Procedures We Offer

  • Teeth Whitening: At-home whitening with gentle yet effective bleaching gel
  • Microabrasion: Removes surface stains without peroxide
  • Invisalign: Straightens teeth and corrects minor to moderate bite issues
  • Cosmetic Bonding: Corrects chips, cracks, and tooth shape
  • Bioclear: This unique system combines bonding with injection molding to reshape and improve your teeth.
  • Veneers: Thin sheets of composite or porcelain material correct multiple esthetic issues simultaneously.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry

Does insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?

Most dental insurance policies do not cover cosmetic procedures. Depending on your policy, it may cover procedures with dual restorative and cosmetic benefits, such as crowns and bridges.

How long do veneers last?

Veneers typically last between five and ten years, though with excellent care, they may last longer.

Call Perfect Smile Dental Studio

If you want to make a lasting change in your smile, Call our Lutz, FL, office today at 813-948-6335 to explore our cosmetic procedures and schedule a consultation.

Teeth brushing seems like a simple enough task, yet many Americans still fail to brush as they should. It may not be as simple as you think. Ineffective brushing doesn’t keep teeth clean and can actually be harmful. Taking the time to ensure you are brushing as you should, with the right toothbrush, at the right times can go a long way in preventing future dental problems and improving your oral health.

General Teeth Brushing Tips

Brushing your teeth might seem straightforward, but many people don't brush as effectively as they could. Here are some tips to ensure you're doing the best job possible:

  • Brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. Brushing after each meal is ideal if possible.
  • Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. For children under three, a rice-grain amount is recommended. Be sure to use toothpaste formulated for children.
  • Choose a toothbrush with a small head and medium or soft bristles.
  • Use a power toothbrush if you have heavy plaque buildup, though a regular toothbrush works well too.
  • After brushing, rinse your toothbrush and let it air-dry upright.
  • After eating or drinking acidic foods and drinks, wait to brush your teeth as acids can weaken tooth enamel.

How to Brush Your Teeth Properly

  • Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Use short strokes to move the brush back and forth on the width of your teeth.
  • Brush the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces of all your teeth.
  • For the inside of your front teeth, tilt the toothbrush vertically and use up-and-down strokes.
  • Brush for at least two minutes, dividing your time equally between the upper and lower teeth.
  • Brush your tongue as it also helps prevent bad breath and the build-up of harmful bacteria in your mouth

Frequently Asked Questions About Brushing Teeth

How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?

Replace your toothbrush or the head of your electric toothbrush every three to four months. Worn-out bristles are less effective and can harbor bacteria. If your toothbrush is causing you pain or beginning to look worn down, be sure to replace it sooner to help maintain your dental health and comfort.

Why is Dental Hygiene Important?

Good dental hygiene is essential for a healthy mouth and overall health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to several adverse oral and health conditions, such as:

  • Gum disease (periodontal disease)
  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
  • Heart attacks
  • Pneumonia
  • Dementia
  • Respiratory infections

Perfect Smile Dental Studio: Your Partners in Dental Health

Dr. Bush and Dr. Mesia are proud to partner with you to help maintain and improve your dental health. Whether it’s a routine cleaning, a smile makeover, or an urgent matter, at Perfect Smile Dental Studio, we are here for all of your dental needs. We can discuss the proper tooth brushing techniques you should be using and even recommend the best toothpaste and toothbrush for your individual dental needs. Please call our Lutz, FL, office at to schedule an appointment.

Instead of just addressing dental health or function, cosmetic dentistry aims to enhance the appearance of your smile. Although cosmetic dentistry isn’t necessary for your dental or overall health, it can significantly impact your self-confidence and positively influence your psychological and emotional well-being.

Your Social Life

If you are self-conscious about your smile, you’ve likely avoided at least some social interactions. Whether it be with strangers, friends, or family members, you attempt to hide your smile while talking or laughing. With cosmetic dentistry, you can freely laugh, talk, smile, and eat without worrying about what you look like or what others might think. In addition, when you have more confidence in your social life, you may be more outgoing and attract others to your positive attitude, which can serve to boost your self-confidence even more.

Your Appearance

A straight, bright, shiny smile may help you feel and appear not only healthy but also radiant and beautiful. In fact, after having cosmetic dentistry work, you may look as if you have erased years from your appearance, giving you more power to shine confidently and allowing your self-confidence to flourish naturally.

Your Career

No matter the job setting or type of work you perform, a new, inviting smile may help others feel more welcome around you. Whether you are seeking your dream job or meeting with potential clients, cosmetic dentistry can boost your confidence, which in turn can give you a career boost and help you reach your goals. Most people perceive confident smiles as trustworthy, motivated, and genuine. On the other hand, trying to hide your smile may seem disingenuous, shy, untrustworthy, or insincere.

Overcoming Trauma

Your smile may be the result of a birth defect or traumatic event. But, thanks to cosmetic dentistry procedures, you can overcome your past trauma and reclaim your self-worth and personal power. With a beautiful new smile, you can face your future with renewed hope and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cosmetic Dentistry

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a specialized field of dentistry that involves changing the appearance of the teeth, gums, and overall smile. Unlike traditional dentistry, which is concerned with oral health and functionality, cosmetic dentistry enhances the aesthetics of the mouth, resulting in a more attractive smile. Depending on a patient's specific needs and goals, cosmetic dentistry procedures can include:

  • Teeth Whitening
  • Invisalign, Braces, and Orthodontics
  • Dental Veneers
  • Dental Crowns
  • Dental Implants
  • Dental Bonding

What are Common Reasons for Seeing a Cosmetic Dentist?

Here are some reasons you may want to consult with a cosmetic dentist:

  • Crooked teeth
  • Damaged teeth (cracks, chips, etc.)
  • Discoloration
  • Misshapen teeth
  • Missing teeth

Sadly, many people often refuse to smile due to issues like these.  Cosmetic dentistry can help remove any embarrassment and discomfort you feel by affordably correcting these conditions.

Cosmetic Dentistry at Perfect Smile Dental Studio

Whatever your cosmetic dentistry goals and desires, our Perfect Smile Dental Studio is here to help. Please call our Lutz, FL, office at to schedule an appointment.

If you are like most people, you probably have at least one or two things you would like to change about your smile. These issues can likely be remedied with the help of a cosmetic dentistry procedure. But you may not have explored your options in cosmetic dentistry because you didn’t think you could afford it. The good news is there may be ways to pay for your cosmetic dental work that you didn’t know about.

Options for Paying for Cosmetic Dental Work

Insurance

You may be able to get some cosmetic dentistry procedures covered or partially covered by dental insurance. This is especially true if the procedure would also improve your dental health. For example, braces and Invisalign not only straighten your teeth but they can help prevent future cavities since you will have straighter teeth. You should always check to see what your dental insurance might cover when it comes to cosmetic procedures.

Financing

You may be able to finance your cosmetic dentistry treatments on a credit card or through a personal loan. At Perfect Smile Dental Studio, we also offer CareCredit®. CareCredit can help you pay for cosmetic dentistry procedures that your insurance won’t cover. Typically, it has low minimum monthly payment options so you get the cosmetic dentistry treatment you want. You can apply for CareCredit in three simple steps and get an answer right away with their instant approval process.

We make it easy for you to pay for your cosmetic dental treatments by accepting payments made with cash, debit cards, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. We also offer financing through CareCredit®.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dental Work

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is the area of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, mouth, and smile. Cosmetic dentists are trained to provide a variety of treatments that can address many dental problems, including cracked or chipped teeth, discoloration, missing teeth, tooth decay, and more. What are some common cosmetic dental procedures?

Common cosmetic dental procedures include:

  • Teeth whitening
  • Veneers
  • Fillings
  • Crowns
  • Inlays
  • Onlays
  • Implants

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Safe?

Generally speaking, cosmetic dentistry is safe. However, as with any medical procedure or treatment, there are always risks involved. By choosing a reputable and experienced cosmetic dentist, you can minimize the risks. Be sure to consider comfort level, skill, experience, customer reviews, background, and accreditations when choosing a cosmetic dentist.

Cosmetic Dental Work at Perfect Smile Dental Studio

Our dental providers take pride in helping you build confidence by enhancing your smile. We have the experience and skills necessary to take on even the toughest of cosmetic dental challenges. You can trust us to present you with all of your options and to help you decide which is best for you while keeping your budget in mind.

Please call our Lutz, FL, office at or email us to schedule an appointment or learn more about our cosmetic dentistry services. With our flexible payment options, we can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.