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Why Whiten? | Henderson Dentist

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically. Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

It’s important to keep in mind that tooth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up will be necessary, especially if you smoke or drink coffee, tea, or wine. Here are the common reasons for tooth whitening:

  • Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development)
  • Normal wear of outer tooth layer
  • Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.)
  • Yellow, brown stained teeth

You next question will likely be, what does this procedure entail? This type of tooth whitening usually requires two visits.  At the first appointment, impressions will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary.  The trays are worn with special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks, depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays and be encouraged to visit your dental professional regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.

Schedule an appointment today 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Henderson and all surrounding areas.

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Keeping an Eye on Oral Cancer | Henderson Dentist

Cancer is not to be taken lightly and neither is oral cancer. It can be very hard to detect but to the trained dental professional eye, it can be found. There are several types of cancers and in several different locations including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, soft and hard palate, sinuses and throat. How can they be found? Thankfully, routine dental visits will thoroughly examine your mouth, head and neck for any abnormal lumps, or tissue that looks out of the ordinary. If anything looks suspicious, further examination can be performed in the office or be referred to specialists. More likely than not unusual, areas are nothing or benign.

The symptoms of oral cancer can be tricky because they can come and go or may go unnoticed. The most common symptoms are swelling, lumps, bumps, rough spots, or eroding on lips, tongue, or any area in the mouth. There can also be difficulty swallowing, chewing, or moving the jaw or tongue, unexplained bleeding, persistent sores lasting longer than two weeks and severe weight loss. If you notice any of these symptoms, it does not always mean “the big C,” but you should always have them examined. It is important to be responsible for your own health as well. Self-checking every month is a good way to be aware. Simply, being familiar with your own mouth can help you notice if something is suddenly different.

A good defense to oral cancer is being educated and prepared. Early detection is key. And this is just one more reason why you need to keep those dental visits regular.

Schedule an appointment today 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Henderson and all surrounding areas.

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The ABCs of Dental Fillings | Henderson Dentist

In the past, we only had the traditional metal fillings. They were not only durable, but they were also quite obvious to others. Today, you have more discrete options available. In fact, you have lots of things to consider when choosing which is best for you and vary depending on the patient’s health, where and how the filling is placed, the amount of chewing pressure the tooth will have to bear, components of the filling material and the number of visits needed to prepare and accommodate the tooth. Some of the choices include amalgam, composite and ionomers. Let’s break them all down…

Amalgam fillings are very durable, easy to use, and inexpensive when compared to other materials. Since amalgam fillings can sustain very heavy chewing loads, they are usually used to restore molars. Some of the disadvantages of amalgam fillings are that the silver tone is not as natural looking, possible short-term sensitivity, and more tooth structure is removed to conform the filling.

Composite fillings are made out of a mixture of glass or quartz and resin, this mix produces a tooth colored filling. Composite fillings are durable and provide good resistance against fracture in small to medium restorations where there is moderate chewing pressure. Because less tooth structure is removed when using a composite, a smaller filling can be used than one using amalgam.

Ionomers, on the other hand, are made out of a mixture of acrylic acids and fine glass powders. Ionomers are usually utilized to fill cavities on the root surfaces of teeth or in small fillings that do not require any chewing resistance since they have low protection against fractures.

Schedule an appointment today 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Henderson and all surrounding areas.

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The After Effects of Dental Implant Surgery | Henderson Dentist

dental implant

No surgery is a fun event, but if you really think about it, it’s the recovering from dental implant surgery that really throws us for a loop. Not only are you sore, but chances are you’ve ever had to experience this before so it’s changes to your face you just aren’t prepared for. But worry not – these painful effects don’t last long after the procedure. And then you have a healthy smile to work with for years to come. So, what should you expect after leaving the dentist chair? These are some of the common ailments:

Soreness. Because tissue had to be damaged to accommodate your implants, you’ll experience some soreness in your jaw and gums. Soothe the pain with over the counter prescription painkillers, then switch to less powerful painkiller, such as ibuprofen or Tylenol.

Swelling. It’s very common for your jaw, gums and cheeks to swell up after dental implant surgery and will typically last about a week. Reduce the swelling by applying an ice pack to the affected areas for 15 minutes at a time, with 15 minutes breaks in between.

Bruising. Bruises may start to appear on your jaw, gums, and neck, a result of your dental implants being installed. Any discoloration will be more noticeable once swelling does down, but the bruising should start to reduce or be completely gone by the end of the first week.

After the first couple weeks, your face should look and feel considerably better, and you should be able to return to your normal daily foods and activities. If any side effects worsen, call your dentist immediately.

Schedule an appointment today 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Henderson and all surrounding areas.

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Treat Yourself to a Brighter Smile | Henderson Dentist

Teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth.  The most popular method is using a home tooth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically.  Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc.  Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Tooth whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up may be needed every several years and more often if you smoke or drink coffee, tea, or wine.

Reasons for tooth whitening:

  • Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development)
  • Normal wear of outer tooth layer
  • Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.)
  • Yellow, brown stained teeth

What does tooth whitening involve?

This type of tooth whitening usually requires two visits.  At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary.  The trays are worn with special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks, depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.

Schedule an appointment today 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Henderson and all surrounding areas.

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Dental Anxiety? There Is a Solution | Henderson Dentist

Do you get anxiety at the first thought of having to make a trip to the dentist? Do you cringe at the sound of the high-pitched whir of dental tools? Fear no more – sleep dentistry helps relax your anxieties and fears. Sleep dentistry, also known as sedation dentistry, refers to the use of medications that help ease the anxiety or fear patients may have during or before their scheduled dental appointment. The dental industry has dedicated itself to making you feel comfortable with any treatment you may need. Some of those methods of relaxation used include the following:

Nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is used to help ease some of the anxiety and fear associated with dental treatments. This method wears off quickly after the procedure and the recovery time is minimal.

Oral sedation. Oral sedation involves of taking a medication before the treatment to ensure that you are relaxed during the time of the actual treatment. Recovery time is a little longer with oral sedation, so take precaution and have someone to drive you home afterward the treatment.

IV sedation. IV sedation is administered directly into your blood stream, resulting in immediate relaxation. You will still be conscious but in a heightened state of relaxation and will not likely remember much about the treatment afterwards. Like oral sedation, your recovery time will take a little longer, so make sure you have a ride home.

Don’t let your fear of the dentist keep you from having a bright and healthy smile. If you do suffer from dental anxiety, ask your dental professional about sedation dentistry today.

Schedule an appointment today 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Henderson and all surrounding areas.

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Too Much of a Good Thing | Henderson Dentist

“Your teeth can never be too white.”

We all want to have that perfect Hollywood smile and do anything we can to achieve that fantastic set of pearly whites. We straighten the crooked, we keep our mouths healthy with good dental hygiene and brighten our smiles through whitening treatments. And for the most part, these efforts have the desired outcome. Oddly enough, as the saying goes, some individuals are taking physical perfection to another level by over doing it on their teeth whitening procedures. The most widely used oral products today are whitening strips and tray-based over-the-counter whitening kits. While tooth whitening can be a safe and effective technique, some individuals are going above the recommendations of their dentists. And this is where they get into trouble.

Despite what we would like to believe, there is indeed such a thing as “too much of a good thing”. Individuals who overdo whitening techniques have noticeably “Snow White” teeth that oftentimes look unnatural. Some individuals get to the point where their teeth begin to inhibit transparent figures. Still not convinced that you can overdo it on whitening treatments? Overuse of whitening products will cause major tooth sensitivity and leave patients more prone to needing root canal treatments.

If you are looking for a safer, more effective form of teeth whitening, consult your dentist. They will give you an overview of certain procedures available and even offer some over-the-counter techniques that may be used. Take their advice to heart and remember – follow instruction for best results.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Henderson and all surrounding areas.

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What Exactly Is General Dentistry? | Henderson Dentist

We all know visiting the dentist is important, but when it’s time for us to choose a dental professional, it becomes a bit overwhelming. Between orthodontics and family dentistry, it’s difficult to choose which is best for your family. As far as dental treatments go in general dentistry, you will find that most general dentists offer the following procedures:

Fillings. Gold, amalgam and other options are used to restore a tooth.

Crowns. These artificial teeth fit over broken or damaged teeth to maintain structure and protect it from further damage.

Dental bridge. This is a dental appliance contains artificial teeth anchored to remaining teeth or crowns and fit over the natural teeth to help secure the replacement teeth in place.

Root canal therapy. This treatment is done when the pulp within a tooth becomes infected in order to save the tooth.

Professional teeth cleaning. This can take form of a scale and polish, or advice on brushing and flossing your teeth.

Dental bonding. Bonding is typically done to treat cracked, chipped, misaligned or discolored teeth by fusing composite resin to your teeth with a specialized light.

Dentures. These false sets of teeth are used to replace missing teeth and function like natural teeth would. They come in both partial and full dentures.

Maxillofacial treatments. This is the technical term that is used to describe procedures for the mouth, face and jaw. This includes dental implants and treatment for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

The dental treatments mentioned above are the most common services offered by general dentists, in addition to a wide range of cosmetic procedures as well, such as teeth whitening, veneers and cosmetic bonding.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Henderson and all surrounding areas.

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What You Need to Know About Dental Implants | Henderson Dentist

dental implantA dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. Dental implants natural-looking and feeling and under proper conditions, such as placement by a diligent patient maintenance, implants can last a lifetime.

What do dental implants do?

  • Replace one or more teeth
  • Support a bridge and reduce the need for a partial denture
  • Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable

Dental implants vs dentures or a bridge – which is better?

Esthetically dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. Since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often happen with bridgework and dentures. Even better, neighboring teeth are not changed to support the implant, like they would with a bridge. The problem with dentures is that they aren’t permanently placed in your mouth, so you can go about your daily routine with confidence and comfort. Unfortunately, not everyone qualifies as a dental implant candidate so make sure you keep up with your dental hygiene.

What can I expect after treatment?

Good news! There won’t be much change when it comes to your new implants. Brushing, flossing and seeing your dentist for regular checkups.  After treatment, periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Henderson and all surrounding areas.

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Are You Scared of the Dentist? | Henderson Dentist

Are you scared of going to the dentist? You are not alone. Believe it or not, dental anxiety is a real thing. The good thing is, there is help – because having a fear shouldn’t be cause to have poor dental health. Intravenous Conscious Sedation (aka IV sedation) is when a drug, usually of the anti-anxiety variety, is administered into the blood system during dental treatment.

Some concerns with this procedure may naturally arise. What does it feel like? Will I be asleep? A lot of dental offices and practices use terms such as “sleep dentistry” or “twilight sleep” when talking about IV sedation. These terms are more descriptive of deep sedation than what we know as actual sleep. Deep sedation is classified as general anesthesia (even though sedation occurs on a continuum).

So, it may give the impression that you will be asleep while in the dentist chair, but in actuality, you remain conscious during conscious IV sedation. You will also be able to understand and respond to requests from your dentist, but may not remember much because of two things:

IV sedation induces a state of deep relaxation and a feeling of not being bothered by what’s going on the drugs used for IV sedation produce either partial or full memory loss (amnesia) for the period of time when the drug first kicks in until it wears off. As a result, time will appear to pass very quickly, and you will not recall much of what happened. Many people remember nothing at all. So, it may appear as if you were asleep during the procedure.

Schedule an appointment today with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Simone at 702-735-2755. Learn more about his practice and see the beautiful smiles he has created by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone proudly serves patients from Las Vegas, Henderson, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.