Dr. Johnson's Dentistry Blog

Archive for the ‘Restorative Dentistry’ Category

Tooth-Colored Fillings in Eagle River

Tuesday, January 12th, 2010

Tooth-Colored Fillings in Eagle River Hello! Welcome to the Excellence In Dentistry blog. If this your first visit, we hope you find useful information about our Anchorage cosmetic dentistry practice. If you have read some of our previous articles, we are glad you checked back with us. We post new articles regularly.

My name is Dr. Kirk Johnson, DDS. I have been practicing dentistry in Anchorage since 1987. Excellence In Dentistry is a full-service dental office located at 1000 East O’Malley, Suite 101, in Anchorage, Alazka. In addition to providing comprehensive examinations and deep cleanings for clients in the Eagle River area, we perform all types of tooth restorations.

When a tooth has decay or has been damaged, a dental restoration is needed to ‘restore’ the tooth to its previous intact condition. A dental filling is one of the most common and well-known types of restorations. A dental filling is used to repair decayed or damaged tooth surfaces. Most people have a few fillings in their mouth.

If you have old silver amalgam fillings, we can replace them with nearly-invisible fillings tooth colored. These fillings are made out of a strong composite resin. Many of our Wasilla cosmetic dentistry patients have replaced their old silver fillings with fillings matched to their teeth. You can improve your smile instantly and relatively inexpensively by getting rid of the ‘metal’.

Another reason some Southern Alaska and Palmer clients have had their old fillings replaced is because they are concerned about the possible heavy metal toxicity of the mercury in the silver.

If you would like to replace your amalgam fillings, call us at 907-349-0022 to schedule a consultation. We are currently accepting new patients and would be happy to show you around our Anchorage cosmetic dental office and introduce you to our friendly team.

Smile – it increases your face value!

Aesthetic Dental Transformations in Anchorage

Thursday, September 24th, 2009

Aesthetic Dental Transformations in Anchorage Many Anchorage professionals, students and retirees are enjoying the lasting benefits of aesthetic dentistry. A beautiful smile not only looks great, it makes you feel great! When you first look in the mirror in the morning while brushing those gleaming babies, you remember; oh yeah, I fixed my teeth and they look fantastic!

When you smile at old friends or make new ones, you are happy to show off your new movie-star grin. When you are in a professional setting speaking with colleagues or clients, you feel poised and super confident.

We have talked about different cosmetic and restorative dental procedures available in Eagle River in previous blog articles, but let’s review the most common.

Veneers are glass-like, wafer-thin covers that adhere to teeth. Porcelain veneers are strong and have the translucency of natural teeth. They correct chips, stains and misaligned teeth that do not require orthodontia. There are several companies that fabricate veneers. One of the most well-known brand names is Lumineers.

Crowns correct more extensive tooth problems. They are used in a variety of situations such as the final restoration following a root canal or to restore teeth damaged by decay, injury or periodontal disease.

Dental implants are one of the best fixes for a missing tooth. They are becoming a popular and effective alternative to bridges and partial dentures in Anchorage and surrounding areas, especially among middle-aged professionals and people in the public eye.

Bridges are another strong, natural looking replacement for one or more missing teeth. They have been used with success for many years.

Professional tooth whitening in your Southern Alaska dentist’s office is the least invasive and quickest way to brighten your smile several shades. One of the most popular systems is called Zoom!.

If you are interested in any of these safe and effective procedures, schedule a consultation with Dr. Krik Johnson DDS at Excellence In Dentistry today. Even if you are still a bit hesitant, remember: discussing your options with a cosmetic dentist does not require a commitment of any kind. It is merely a relaxed way to get the most reliable information.

We are waiting for your call. Dr. Kirk Johnson DDS can be reached at 907-349-0022.

Creating Memorable Smiles at Excellence In Dentistry

Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009

Creating Memorable Smiles at Excellence In Dentistry A smile takes but a moment, but the memory of it lasts forever. You can make your smile memorable and beautiful with a smile makeover at Excellence In Dentistry in Anchorage.

Cosmetic dentistry is a broad term that specifies dentistry with an emphasis on aesthetics. Cosmetic dentists perform general dental procedures in addition to providing advanced cosmetic dental treatments. Anchorage cosmetic dentists have specialized training in the latest cosmetic dental procedures and techniques.

Dr. Kirk Johnson DDS of Excellence In Dentistry in Anchorage is knowledgeable about the processes used to fabricate crowns, veneers, inlays, onlays, braces and dental implants. Advances in ceramic and composite materials have boosted the popularity cosmetic dentistry but these miracle materials are worthless without a skilled cosmetic dentist to incorporate them into a healthy and beautiful smile.

When designing a dental treatment plan for a Southern Alaska patient, the client’s goals and expectations are discussed. The most skillful cosmetic dentists consider the shape, alignment, color and condition of the teeth. The cosmetic dental client’s age, health condition and lifestyle also influence the plan.

If you want to learn about the possibilities for your smile, call Excellence In Dentistry at 907-349-0022. We have created memorable smiles for many of your friends and neighbors in the Anchorage area.

Tooth Restoration in Anchorage

Tuesday, August 25th, 2009

Tooth Restoration in Anchorage At Excellence In Dentistry in Anchorage, we use a variety of techniques to restore damaged teeth. Most dental clients are familiar with fillings. Traditional fillings are also called ‘direct restorations‘ because they are applied to the tooth, shaped and polished in one visit.

Another type of filling is called an ‘indirect restorations‘ and is fabricated in a Alaska dental lab. There are two types: inlays and onlays.

When a tooth needs more extensive dental restoration, a crown is often used. At Excellence In Dentistry in Anchorage, we create strong, natural-looking crowns from a variety of materials.

What if the tooth is damaged beyond repair? There are a number of functional replacements for missing teeth. Dentures are not the only option.

Call 907-349-0022 to learn about the restoration options available. We have been improving smiles for  Alaska patients since 1987.

Whether the damage is caused by decay, injury, bite problems, or natural wear; Dr. Kirk Johnson DDS will choose the best dental treatment plan for your tooth restoration needs. Excellence In Dentistry is conveniently located at 1000 East O’Malley, Suite 101, in Anchorage, AK. We provide quality dental care for Anchorage area families.

Your Smile Doesn’t Have to Show Your Age in Anchorage!

Thursday, August 13th, 2009

Your Smile Doesn’t Have to Show Your Age in Anchorage As we grow older, we may welcome many changes. However, most Anchorage retirees do not welcome wrinkles, gray hair and dental problems.

Fortunately, your smile can be attractive and healthy throughout your golden years!

Even if your teeth are showing visible signs of wear such as enamel loss, staining, and chips, it is not too late to restore your youthful smile. And, though tooth loss is fairly common for Anchorage residents over sixty, in most cases it is preventable.

At Excellence In Dentistry in the Anchorage area, we treat patients of all ages. We specialize in restoring smiles and placing dental implants.

Call 907-349-0022 to schedule a dental consultation. If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, you will be interested to learn about the latest cosmetic dentistry techniques. Many procedures can be completed in one visit to our dental office.

Give us a call at 907-349-0022 or find us on the Web at: http://www.AnchorageSmiles.com

Sedation Dentistry in Anchorage

Monday, August 3rd, 2009

Sedation Dentistry in Anchorage Picture the following scenario: You are stretched out in a chair at your dentist’s office holding a remote as you try to tune into your favorite Alaska radio station. An assistant clips a paper bib around your neck. Someone switches on a bright overhead light and you see latex-gloved hands moving toward your open mouth. You close your eyes.

As you read this, does your heart begin racing? Are your palms sweaty?

If so, you may be a good candidate for sedation dentistry. Oral sedation benefits nervous dental patients in Anchorage every day. Moderate sedation is used for all types of dental procedures such as root canals, dental implants, and wisdom teeth removal. If you are considering extensive restorative or cosmetic dental work, conscious sedation may allow your dentist to complete multiple procedures in a single visit.

Don’t let fear prevent you from getting the dental treatment you need. Schedule a visit with Dr. Kirk Johnson to learn about conscious sedation dentistry.

Excellence In Dentistry
1000 East O’Malley, Suite 101, Anchorage, AK in Anchorage, Alaska 99515.

Give us a call at 907-349-0022 or find us on the Web at: http://www.AnchorageSmiles.com

What a Beautiful Alaska Smile Says About You

Wednesday, July 29th, 2009

What a Beautiful Alaska Smile Says About You It’s not just about looks. According to a recent study by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), a healthy and attractive smile makes you appear more intelligent, successful, friendly and interesting. (See http://www.aacd.com for complete survey results.)

Our smile makeover patients who have undergone  restorative and cosmetic dentistry at Excellence In Dentistry in Anchorage have experienced this phenomenon firsthand. They have expressed that they not only feel great about their looks, they are more confident in professional and social situations. Another benefit: they also feel more appealing to the opposite gender.

I’m Dr. Kirk Johnson of Excellence In Dentistry in Anchorage. I get great satisfaction in using my years of specialized experience to provide premium cosmetic dentistry for my patients. I am passionate about developing a custom treatment plan for each Anchorage dental client. Some of my patients had lived with misaligned or crooked teeth for years. Others had been self-conscious about missing or stained teeth.

There has never been a better time to upgrade your smile. There are solutions for every kind of dental problem. If you are not familiar with the latest teeth whitening, crown restoration and tooth replacement procedures, it is time to find out. Call 907-349-0022 to schedule a consultation. Come in to our office on 1000 East O’Malley, Suite 101, Anchorage, AKand see photos of our happy dental makeover clients who are enjoying their beautiful smiles every day!

Excellence In Dentistry
1000 East O’Malley, Suite 101, Anchorage, AK in Anchorage, Alaska 99515.

Give us a call at 907-349-0022 or find us on the Web at: http://www.AnchorageSmiles.com

Anchorage Teeth Whitening and Veneers

Tuesday, July 21st, 2009

Anchorage Teeth Whitening and Veneers Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure in Anchorage and throughout Alaska.

Numerous ads for whitening products in our local Anchorage media contain terms such as ‘white brite’, ‘22 carbamide peroxide’ and ‘peroxide teeth’. They look tempting, but how do you separate tooth bleaching fact from fiction?

First, and especially for our local Anchorage Alaska patients, we recommend talking to Dr. Kirk Johnson DDS at Excellence In Dentistry. Just because teeth whitening products are readily available, it doesn’t mean they are all safe or appropriate for every person. Getting a professional opinion is a good first step.

Don’t be fooled by smile whitening hype and risk damage, especially if you need tetracycline teeth whitening. If you have existing cosmetic dental work such as crowns, bonding, partial dentures or bridge work, it is especially important to talk to a Eagle River dental professional about worry free dentistry teeth whitening.

Teeth whitening kits are not the only way to quickly improve your smile in Wasilla. Many of your Southern Alaska neighbors have benefited from porcelain veneers. There are several brands of veneers such as Lumineers by Cerinate, da Vinci and Mac. We can help you decide on which is best for you.

Veneers are sometimes called ‘instant orthodontics’ because they can correct tooth misalignment and gaps as well as provide instant teeth whitening.

Porcelain veneers can also fix chipped teeth and cover stains. The vast majority of Anchorage veneer recipients are extremely pleased with the results.

Providing comprehensive dental care for Eagle River families since 1987.

Are Dental Implants Worth It For Anchorage?

Saturday, July 18th, 2009

Are Anchorage Dental Implants Worth It? A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement that looks, feels and works like a natural tooth.

The actual dental implant material is usually titanium. A post is surgically inserted into the jaw bone to replace the root of the missing tooth. The post integrates with the bone to provide a stable foundation. The root replacement device can help prevent future jaw bone deterioration that can occur after a tooth has been lost. When the implant has integrated securely with the bone (it can take three to six months), a smaller post is attached. This post extends above the gum line. The artificial tooth (crown) is then attached.

The dental implants available in the Anchorage area are extremely versatile and can be used in a variety of configurations. One dental implant can replace one missing tooth. A series of implants can replace more than one tooth or anchor a dental bridge. Implants can also act as a sturdy base for partial or full dentures.

When calculating the cost of dental implants, you’ll want to compare them to other restorative options.

Call 907-349-0022 to schedule a visit with Dr. Kirk Johnson DDS to discuss your dental goals and the possibility of reasonably cost dental implants. If you are missing one or more teeth, you owe it to yourself to get dental implants information.

-Excellence In Dentistry

Dental Specialties Available In Anchorage

Tuesday, July 14th, 2009

Dental Specialties Available In Anchorage General dentists in the Anchorage area are trained in a wide variety of dental procedures. However, sometimes, your general dentist will refer you to a local specialist, or include a specialist as part of your treatment team.

Following are some of the most common dental specialties found in the Anchorage area:

Endodontists
Endodontists specialize in root canal therapy and other procedures involving the root and surrounding parts of the tooth.

Periodontists
Periodontists treat the conditions affecting gum tissue and the bone surrounding the teeth. If you have gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease, you may be referred to a periodontist in Anchorage.

Prosthodontists
Repairing damaged teeth and replacing lost teeth for Anchorage patients is called ‘restorative dentistry’. Prosthodontists have advanced training in procedures involving crowns, dental implants, bridges, veneers, inlays, and partial or complete dentures.

Pediatric Dentists
Infants, young children and teenagers have different dental needs than adults. Pediatric Dentists undergo additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases affecting the youngest population in Anchorage.

Oral Surgeons
Oral Surgeons serving the Anchorage area perform surgical procedures involving the teeth, mouth and jaw. These include dental implants, surgery to repair damage due to injury, tumor surgery, and cleft lip and palate reconstruction.

If you are interested in learning more about these specialties, or have a concern regarding your oral health, please visit us at Excellence In Dentistry. You will find us at 1000 East O’Malley, Suite 101, Anchorage, AK 99515. Please give us a call at 907-349-0022.

-Dr. Kirk Johnson, DDS