Watertown Dental Dental Blog

Teeth Whitening Treatment in Watertown

Teeth Whitening Treatment Near Me

Teeth whitening treatments are common but most people don’t get them
right. It is best to have teeth whitening treatments done by your
dentist. If you prefer at-home treatments, ask your dentist for advice.
Teeth whitening treatments are meant to brighten your teeth and remove
teeth discoloration largely caused by food & drink.

When it comes to teeth whitening treatments, you have two options;
In-office treatments and home treatments.

In-office treatments use stronger bleaching solutions and usually
have a higher impact compared to home treatments.

You can buy home treatments over-the-counter but it is best to follow
a prescription from your dentist.

In-Office Teeth Whitening

In-office treatments can brighten your teeth three to eight shades
depending on the type of stains. Yellow stains are easier to treat than
brown stains. Dentists use stronger bleaching solutions but they don’t
damage your teeth.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

Here are common home treatments;

Tooth whitening strips and gels – These are
applied daily directly to the teeth as though you are brushing. After
about 4 months of usage, you start noticing results.

Tray-based tooth bleaching systems
Tray-based treatment involves wearing a tray over your teeth that looks
like a mouthguard. The tray is filled with bleaching agents that work on
your teeth.

Tooth whitening toothpaste – A tooth
whitening toothpaste has a higher abrasion compared to normal
toothpaste. These kinds of toothpaste improve your teeth’ color slightly
by one or two shades.

Before you consider over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments, talk
to your dentist. Call us to schedule a consultation. We’ll give you
treatment options that are worth your time and money!

Teeth Cleaning Near Me in Watertown

Teeth Cleaning Near Me

When was the last time you had your teeth professionally cleaned?
Regular teeth cleaning is important for your oral health. Unfortunately,
dental phobia stops many people from seeking teeth cleaning treatments.
Learn what happens on the dental chair so that you are no longer
afraid.

What to expect with teeth cleaning procedures

1. A physical examination by your dental
hygienist

Dental hygienists are special dentists who specialize in teeth
cleaning procedures. Your dental hygienist will start your treatment by
performing a physical examination of your mouth.

During the examination, they check for minor and major problems such
as gum disease.

If they detect major problems, they’ll talk to your dentist to
discuss whether you should begin with other treatments before teeth
cleaning.

2. Removing plaque and tartar

You brush and floss daily but if you don’t do it right plaque and
tartar will build up on your teeth over a period of time. 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. Teeth cleaning using gritty toothpaste

Once plaque and tartar have been removed, your dental hygienist will
brush your teeth using a high-powered electric
brushwhich performs deep cleaning. This is an
important step to remove stubborn leftover tartar. They’ll use a special
gritty toothpaste that scrubs your teeth.

4. Expert flossing

Your dental hygienist will perform an expert flossing session that
targets the spaces between your teeth.

5. Rinsing

Next, you will rinse your mouth using a rinse solution that contains
liquid fluoride to get rid of any debris.

6. Applying fluoride treatment

Lastly is a fluoride treatment. This treatment is used as a
protectant for your teeth to help fight against cavities in between
teeth cleaning appointments.

The frequency of teeth cleaning treatments is dependent on several
factors. Talk to a dental hygienist to learn more.

Dental Exam and Cleaning Near Me in Watertown

Dental Exam & Cleaning Near Me

Dental exams and cleaning are absolutely important and they help
determine the status of your oral health. Since your oral health is
connected to your overall health, regular dental exams and cleaning help
you stay healthy. Find a dentist near you and schedule your first
visit.

The benefits of dental exams and cleaning include;

  • Healthy teeth and gums

  • Prevention of potential dental problems

  • Early detection and treatment of dental problems

What to expect during dental exams &
cleaning

Teeth & gum cleaning

Dental cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar that contains
bacteria that expose you to tooth decay. Regular brushing is not enough
and you require professional cleaning regularly.

Dental X-rays

X-rays capture images of the interior of your teeth and gums to help
your dentist discover potential problems. These are done in a process
known as examination. A dental examination is usually non-invasive and
involves other techniques too.

Full check-ups

As part of our routine exams and cleaning, we perform a full checkup
on your teeth, gums, jaws, cheeks, tongue, neck, and head.

Oral cancer screening

Oral cancer is becoming more common nowadays. We take the opportunity
to screen you for oral cancer at each exam appointment.

During your first dental exam & cleaning with us, we will have a
discussion about your oral health and your lifestyle to determine
whether you are at risk of developing dental problems. If you need to
adjust your lifestyle, we will help you make the changes slowly. If you
already have a dental problem, we will create a treatment plan suitable
for you laying down all the available treatment options.

Call us to speak to a dental exam & cleaning dentist near
you.

Dental Crowns Near Me in Watertown

Dental Crowns Near Me

Dental crowns can help you cover discolored teeth and other dental
problems. Read on to learn more about dental crowns and find a dental
crown specialist.

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap made from different types of
material such as metal, porcelain, and ceramic, and used by dentists for
restorative dentistry. Crowns fit into your upper tooth or act as
artificial teeth.

Are you a candidate for a dental crown?

You are a candidate for a dental crown if

  • You have a cracked or fractured tooth

  • You have a weak tooth

  • You have a broken tooth or part of your tooth is damaged by
    decay

  • You need to support a dental bridge

  • You have a discolored tooth

  • You need to protect a tooth after a root canal procedure

  • You have a dental implant

Types of dental crowns

Your dentist will discuss the types of dental crowns and advice you
according to your preferences. The most common types are;

Metal crowns

You may have seen someone with a gold tooth, that’s a metal crown
made of gold. Metal crowns can also be made of palladium, nickel, or
chromium. They are the most durable with a lifespan of up to 15 years
with proper care.

Resin crowns

These are generally less expensive but not as durable as metal
crowns. Their average lifespan is 3 to 5 years.

Porcelain crowns

Want crowns that look exactly like your natural teeth? Go for
porcelain crowns. They resemble the appearance of tooth enamel.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns

These are for people who need crowns that resemble natural teeth and
last longer. They combine the durability of metal and the natural look
of porcelain.

Pressed ceramic crowns

These are similar to porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns but they
use ceramic in place of metal.

No doubt, dental crowns can drastically improve your smile. Call us
or drop by our office for an initial evaluation.

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. 

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

Make Appoinment
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