Repairing Damaged Teeth

If you have missing or damaged teeth we can then restore and enhance the natural beauty of your smile. Our practice can treat:
 

• Missing teeth, gaps between teeth, general bite problems

• Chipped, cracked or worn teeth

• Unsightly, stained, or washed-out fillings

• Permanently stained or discolored teeth

• Crooked or crowded teeth

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What is a Crown?

A crown ("cap") is a tooth-like covering placed over a carefully prepared preexisting tooth. Crowns serve many functions, such as to strengthen, restore or improve the appearance of your natural tooth. For example, a crown can support the tooth when there is no longer sufficient tooth structure left to place a filling. Crowns may also be used to protect the structure of a tooth that is fractured or broken, and can be attached to bridges or dentures.

What is a Bridge?

A bridge is an excellent way to replace missing teeth and restore stability to your mouth. A dental bridge is attached to the teeth next to the open space from your missing tooth or teeth. Those teeth act as supports. Your teeth are prepared and impressions are made of your mouth. Your bridge is carefully crafted and fit to your teeth.

 

A bridge is a good way to restore your beautiful smile!

 

How to care for your Bridge:

1. Avoid chewing until the numbness has worn off completely.

2. Brushing and flossing. Dr. Kim may recommend special floss, brushing and cleaning aids, as it is important to keep your bridge bacteria free.

3. To reduce discomfort, rinse your mouth three times a day with warm salt water. Your gums may be sore for a few days, this is normal.

4. Call us if sensitivity persists, you experience discomfort or an uneven bite.

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Pain Free Crown & Bridge Dentistry

If you are looking for pain free crown and bridge dentistry, you have come to the right place! Depending on the type of treatment you have received for your dental problem, it might be necessary to have your tooth restored to its original size and shape; supply additional physical support for the treated tooth; and get a complete "makeover" on the affected tooth. For cases like these, a crown is the most logical option.

While inlays and outlays cover the chewing surface of the tooth and fillings fill in the empty interior space of the tooth, crowns completely cover every visible part of the tooth - which is why they are sometimes referred to as "caps." A part of your tooth remains but is essentially "rebuilt" to resemble the tooth at its exterior best.

While porcelain crowns certainly can improve the look of a tooth or multiple teeth, it is recommended only in conjunction with prior repair of the tooth - not simply for cosmetic purposes.

It is of utter importance to understand one of the most recent developments of cosmetic dentistry—porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin porcelain shells bonded on the teeth’s front side. This procedure can be a solution that is viable for teeth which are damaged by stains, chips or misalignment.

It’s imperative for clients to understand not only the advantages of porcelain veneers, but the disadvantages as well. It’s also important to know when the dental veneers for cosmetic surgery should and should not be utilized. Thus, various steps entailed in the making of porcelain veneers are discussed. It’s advisable to know how to care for dental veneers and what to achieve if you endure the breaking or loosening of your porcelain veneer.

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Dental Implants

Dental Implants are a revolutionary way of preserving your natural bone. Bone is lost when teeth are lost and dental implants are changing the way people live! With dental implants, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life. Implants can replace:

A. Single tooth and the restorative phase similar to crown fabrication and placement or

B. Multiple tooth implants followed by restorations with crowns or removable overdentures which may require several visits

 

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are placed where teeth are missing. The bone “bonds” with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone and facial deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

 

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by Dr. Kim or by a Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon or Periodontist suggested by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

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Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the bone. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

 

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two phases:

Phase I: implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

Phase II: Your oral surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Then, Dr. Kim will be able to begin making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

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Teeth Whitening

At Home or In-Office Teeth Whitening
Having a beautiful smile may be even easier than you think. Many people achieve the look they've been dreaming of with our simple "bleaching" procedure. Our office offers two ways in which to enhance your smile: in-office whitening treatment or our “take-home” whitening . Just let us know at any appointment if you would like to begin teeth whitening. You can lighten only your upper teeth or both the upper and lower, depending on how much of each shows when you talk and smile.

The in-office whitening procedure will require about 90 minutes in our office.  We use a very high concentration of hydrogen peroxide so your gums and other soft tissue will be protected with a barrier during treatment.  While your teeth are getting lightened, you can relax and enjoy a tv show, catch up on emails or read a book since our “in-office” whitening procedure does not require you to sit in front of a bleaching light.
 
The home treatment only takes a day or two for your custom bleach splints to be ready for you. We provide you with a special bleaching agent that you put into the clear, almost invisible splints. With only 30 minutes of wear per day, our special bleaching agent bubbles stains right out of your enamel in a very short time without altering tooth structure or existing dental work in any way. When your teeth reach the brightness you want, only occasional touch up treatment is needed to maintain your new smile. We'll want to take "after" photos at your next appointment.
 

Teeth Whitening can be used to correct many tooth discolorations. These discolorations may have been caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth. Using the latest in bleaching technology, we offer a safe method for creating a beautiful, "brilliant" smile. In cases of extreme tooth discoloration, crowns or veneers may be the only choice. But because of the low cost of bleaching treatments, bleaching is nearly always worth a solid try.

 

Key Benefits:

• Corrects brown, yellow and mottled tooth staining

• Works on people of all ages.

• Is a near permanent solution for a "dull" smile, restoring brightness and bringing a smile alive.

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How is Teeth Whitening done?

An impression is taken to make a specialized "mouthguard" or "stent" to hold the bleach against the teeth. The material is used each night for about 3-4 hours for a week or two, after which significant whitening will occur. In some cases, the change is nothing short of brilliant. For confidence in appearance, bleaching technology offers improvements in yellowing, aging or stained teeth. For very severely stained teeth, crowns or veneers may be more appropriate.

 

Considerations

Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available at drug stores and pharmacies. However, since these products can harm the gums and teeth, it’s better to use products that our practice recommends.

 

A Beautiful Smile with Porcelain Veneers

Call Dr. Kim's dental office today to find out how we can help you have a beautiful smile with porcelain veneers. Porcelain Veneers completely transform the shape of your teeth and smile. Veneers are considered great alternatives to crowns and are extremely durable. Most of all, they give you an instant attractive smile that will last several years to come.
 

 

Here are a few advantages of getting Porcelain Veneers:

This procedure will require three appointments:

• Creates an even, white, attractive smile

• Aligns crooked teeth

• Corrects misshapen teeth

• Whitens severely stained or discolored teeth

• Balances teeth that are too large or small

• Eliminates uneven spaces or gaps between teeth

• Restores chipped or worn teeth

 

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers You may be wondering what are porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers, also referred to as dental porcelain laminates or dental veneers are described as “wafer-thin porcelain shells”, which are bonded on the front side of your teeth to form cosmetic enhancements for the tooth. Porcelain veneers are normally used to make cosmetic improvements for the chipped, discolored, misaligned or worn teeth.

In the past, traditional cosmetic dental bonding materials were basically semi-translucent. The majority of the light that actually hit a tooth that was repaired barely entered the dental bonding. As a result, the reflection of the light bounced off the outer surface. Today’s, porcelain veneers are also described as glass-like. They are superior to a variety of cosmetic dental bonding procedures because it is translucent.

Will they look like normal teeth?

When bonded to the teeth, the ultra-thin porcelain veneers are virtually undetectable and highly resistant to coffee, tea, or even cigarette stains. For strength and appearance, their resemblance to healthy, white tooth enamel is unsurpassed by other restorative options. Because they are thin, light can shine through them and they take on the natural color of the underlying tooth.

 

How durable are porcelain veneers?

With proper care, porcelain veneers will brighten your smile for well over a decade.

Dr. Kim will ensure that your veneers are crafted from the highest quality porcelains and are bonded with the most advanced and proven materials available.

 

The Veneers Procedure

This procedure will require three appointments:

• Diagnosis

• Treatment Planning (may take several visits)

• Preparation

• Bonding

 

Diagnosis and treatment planning

You will want to take an active role in planning your smile design. Dr. Kim. She will review the corrective limitations of this procedure and help you plan your new smile.

 

Preparation

The amount of time it takes for the preparation depends on the complexity of the case. Although the porcelain veneer is very thin, the teeth are lightly reduced to allow for the added thickness.

Impressions are taken of the teeth prepared and sent to the lab for fabrication. If the teeth are too unsightly a temporary veneer can be placed at this time. The veneer should be ready in approximately one to two weeks.

 

Bonding

Your third appointment may take almost as long as your preparation appointment depending on the complexity of the case. A nightguard may be necessary to help protect your new smile.

 

Care and follow up

Brush and floss daily. Return for a follow-up visit after one to two weeks.

 

Maintenance of your new Veneers

1. Brush and floss as you normally would. Don’t be afraid that you will damage your veneers by brushing and flossing. Non-abrasive toothpaste is recommended. A good home care regimen will insure the best esthetic success of your veneer.

2. You may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold after placement of your veneer. This is due to the amount of enamel left on the tooth after preparation. Sensitivity is totally normal and should dissipate after one to two weeks. If sensitivity persists please call the office.

3. If you are a known clencher (bruxer), please be sure to let us know. Dr. Kim may recommend a soft night guard for you to wear to minimize stress placed upon your teeth while you sleep.

 

We hope that your new porcelain veneers fulfill your esthetic goal. With proper home care and scheduled visits, they are sure to provide you with a beautiful smile for years to come.

 

Porcelain inlays, porcelain onlays and composite fillings create restorations that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth

 

Disadvantages of Silver fillings

Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and lets cavities get started once again. With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split.

Silver fillings contain 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak and cause stains on your teeth and gums. Fortunately, silver fillings can safely be replaced with Tooth Colored Restorations.

 

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

There are many advantages to tooth colored restorations. Resin are bonded to the teeth creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger.

Since the resin used in tooth colored restorations contain fluoride this can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums!

The result is a beautiful smile!

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Teeth Bonding

Bonding can be used as a restorative procedure for teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored or misarranged, and is an alternative to veneers.

How does Bonding work?

The tooth is prepared for the procedure by lightly etching the surface and applying a bonding liquid. Once the liquid sets, a plastic resin is applied and sculpted into the desired shape by the dentist. Once set, the resin is trimmed, smoothed and polished to a natural appearance.

Considerations

The bonding procedure can often be completed in a single office visit, and can improve the appearance of a tooth significantly. However, since the plastic resin used is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel, it is more likely to stain, chip or break than natural teeth. Bonding typically lasts three to five years before repair is needed.

 

Comfortable Root Canal Dentistry

If you need a root canal and you want to see a dentist who you can count on for comfortable root canal dentistry, then you are in the right place. Dr. Kim and her team, specialize in working with patients who are afraid of the dentist or may be uncomfortable with the thought of having dental work done.
 

What is a root canal?

Wondering exactly what is a root canal? The pulp chamber of your tooth is the chamber (or cavity) in the center of the tooth where your root canal and nerve lie. The root canal supplies each one of your teeth with the vital nutrients it needs in order to stay healthy. When a tooth’s nerve or pulp is damaged or becomes infected, the infection within the tooth will continue to worsen if left untreated.

During a root canal, we clean the inside of the tooth out, remove the infection and seal the area so that the tooth itself does not become infected. Having the tooth cleaned out also prevents any further abscess or other complication from forming.

Delaying your root canal because you may have a fear of the dentist is based on misinformation. Using today’s cutting edge technology a root canal is not much different for the patient than having a simple filling.
 

Why choose Dr. Kim for Your Root Canal?

You should choose Dr. Kim for your root canal because she is an expert when it comes to helping patients experience little to no pain or discomfort during a root canal procedure.

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Mouthguards

If you or your child play sports either for fun or professionally you always run the risk of injuring your teeth while practicing your favorite sport. We recommend wearing an appliance that will allow you to protect your teeth and your child’s teeth from getting damaged. Mouthguards are very easy to make and can prevent you from loosing or fracturing your teeth while playing your favorite sport.

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Occlusal Guards (sometimes called "night guards")

Occlusal Guards are appliances that can be worn during the day or while sleeping to reduce the chances of fracturing or wearing your teeth. It also helps reduce the stress that is placed on the TMJ from these parafunctional habits. Stress is part of our everyday lives and nightguards will help reduce the effects of stress on your teeth!

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Tooth Extractions

You and Dr. Kim may determine that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), over-retained (such as baby teeth) or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.

To avoid these complications, in most cases, Dr. Kim will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement options for the extracted tooth.

Why replace a missing tooth?
After a tooth has been lost is it essential to prevent other problems that can affect your mouth as a direct result. Teeth need each other for support. When one or more teeth are lost the biting forces on the teeth next to the space will change and cause the teeth to shift. The teeth may begin to extrude out of the socket and eventually you can end up losing them too.
As your teeth move and your bite changes it may become more difficult to chew and your jaw joint (TMJ) may become damaged. As your teeth shift it may become more difficult to clean them causing permanent bone loss and cavities. Bridges, implants or prosthetic appliances can be used to prevent the loss of other teeth.   

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Dentures (complete and partial)

A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Two types of dentures are available - complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Dr. Kim will assess whether you are a good candidate for immediate dentures. In some cases, dentures can be placed in the same day that the teeth are extracted so that you have teeth in your mouth at all times.

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Pediatric dentistry

Children should have their first dental checkup by age 1 or whenever their first teeth erupt. Dr. Kim can assess proper oral development and discuss oral care for your child. We also stress preventive dentistry for children with sealants on permanent molars. We believe in seeing children in a nurturing environment and welcome parents in the treatment room during the visit. Dr. Kim believes that a good first dental experience is key in achieving good oral hygiene habits throughout adolescence and adulthood.

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General Family Dentistry

Visit our general family dentistry and get ready to experience a different type of dental care. A visit to the dentist's office isn't just about checking for cavities anymore – there have been incredible advancements in the field of dentistry, and we have responded by expanding our range of custom dental care services to suit your needs.

The Latest in Dental Technology

We are always at the forefront of the latest in dental technology and research in dentistry and use the most up-to-date methods and technology to help our patients' achieve their desired smiles. At Dr. Kim, D.D.S., we frequently perform a wide variety of general dental procedures, so you can rest assured that yours will be performed by a skilled and experienced medical professional. With an arsenal of state-of-the-art equipment and an expert multidisciplinary staff dedicated to your dental health, we are in a unique position to offer best-in-class dental care.

Commitment to a Clean Germ Free Environment

Our commitment to a clean, germ free environment means better, safer dental care for our patients. Dr. Kim is meticulous when it comes to keeping our dental equipment clean. We bag any equipment that can be bagged and we leave disinfectant on any surfaces being cleaned for at least 10 minutes to ensure that the disinfectant has a chance to work. We are committed to providing our patients with a safe, germ free environment.

 

In addition to all the services you would expect from a dental office, Dr. Kim has built a great reputation for working with patients who have special dental care needs or who may have some type of medical problem that has made dental care a challenge.

Contact Us Today

Contact us today to schedule your next dental procedure. Our commitment is to providing the highest quality of dental care for our patients, and we want to do the same for you. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call us at 770-506-3955.

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Cosmetic Dentist

Looking for a great cosmetic dentist? Innovations in dental technology have made a trip to the dentist an entirely new experience for millions of Americans - thanks to a relatively new field called cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Kim uses the latest in dental technology to ensure that patients who come to our office for cosmetic dental work receive the highest quality of treatment possible.

 

The main goal of traditional dentistry is to keep your teeth healthy and free of disease and decay; cosmetic dentistry takes oral hygiene to a whole new level, with a concentration on enhancing the overall look of your teeth. With cosmetic dentistry, even getting a cavity filled can be an opportunity to improve your smile.

 

The smile is our window to the world, and it's the first thing that makes an impression on people we meet. So it's no wonder that more and more people are turning to cosmetic dentistry for corrective procedures and aesthetic enhancement. If you are looking for a great dentist who is as concerned about your smile as you are, we can help.

 

Dr. Kim has performed a wide variety of cosmetic dental procedures and other dental procedures. So whether you want to fix a chipped tooth or get a complete smile makeover, contact us today. We can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call or contact HWY138 Dental today.

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Restorative Dentistry

In restorative dentistry, crown and bridge refers to the restoration of natural teeth that have been damaged, decayed or lost. This is otherwise known as restorative dentistry. Dr. Kim has performed a wide variety of restorative dental procedures and has built a practice on making patients comfortable before any dental procedure is started.

 

Once we have examined your teeth and has evaluated your dental and medical history, we will be ready to provide a diagnosis and treatment options. Before Dr. Kim ever performs any restorative dentistry work or any other dental procedure, he will clearly explain exactly what you should expect and he will be happy to answer all of the questions you have about your specific procedure.

 

In instances where you need to have your tooth restored to its original size and shape, supply additional physical support for the treated tooth or get a complete "makeover" on the affected tooth, a crown would be your best option. For more information on crowns, please see our dental crowns area.

 

Dental bridges, on the other hand, are used to replace missing a missing tooth. For more information on bridges, please see our dental bridges area.

 

Contact Us Today
To find out more about restrotive dentistry, or to schedule an appointment, please, call or contact us at our 138 dental office today. We look forward to meeting you!

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Preventative & Health Oriented Services

Preventative and health oriented services include dental and periodontal cleanings, application of preventive medications and barriers to decay, home care education and training, diet counselling and identification of special devices to promote health.

Reports and studies have shown definitive links between dental diseases and certain medical conditions including heart disease. Since over 80% of all oral and dental diseases are preventable, we work with our clients to teach and support them in improving and sustaining their dental health.

 

We take pride in educating our clients about the importance of maintaining good health through preventive dentistry. We will thoroughly instruct you in the most effective ways of keeping your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy.

How Can Preventative Dentistry Benefit You?
Are wondering how preventative dentistry can benefit you? Prolonging times between dental visits can make small problems turn to BIG ones that are more difficult to fix. Regular checkups and cleanings help prevent the problems before they start or spot them while they are still small.

Reducing the amounts of sugar, starch and carbonated beverages you consume also goes a long way in preventing and reducing dental problems.

Preventive dentistry is just that – dentistry designed to prevent big problems.
 

Our Thorough Examinations

Dental Examination:
We examine your teeth for decay, cracks and damage that may show dangerous or destructive conditions.

Oral Cancer Examination:
The face, head, neck and mouth are examined for any signs or symptoms of disease.

Periodontal Examination:
Jaws, gums and parts of the mouth that support the teeth are examined for health and proper function.

Bite Evaluation:
The relationships of the jaws and teeth are examined, tested and evaluated for those with problems associated with poor or destructive bites (headaches, sensitivity to temperature, pain while chewing, broken teeth, etc).

Cosmetic Evaluation:
We carefully analyze the appearance of your teeth and explore ways to improve and enhance smiles.

Periodontal Disease & Cardiac Disease
Studies have linked periodontal disease and cardiac disease. Periodontal disease may actually trigger cardiac disease. When you practice preventative dentistry, you may be preventing cardiac disease. Maintaining a healthy diet coupled with good dental hygiene are important aspects of preventive dentistry.

In addition, it is imperative for patients to undergo a complete dental exam because this can help catch potential dental problems. Even though you may not be experiencing painful dental problems at the moment, and you haven't gotten your teeth cleaned in a while, this may be the perfect time to schedule a dental appointment.