Dr. Johnson’s Dental Blog

If you have money in your Anchorage flexible spending account you may want to schedule some cosmetic dentistry before the deadline. Remember, you lose any funds left over after the plan year ends. Why not improve your smile with tax-free dollars?

Even a small change can make a big difference in the appearance of your teeth. You might consider getting a veneer for a chipped tooth or replacing a broken crown. Maybe you want to straighten your teeth with braces or replace amalgam fillings with clear ones that blend with your natural teeth. Tooth whitening is quick and easy and benefits even the most attractive smiles.

Perhaps aesthetic dentistry is not your first priority. Maybe you have a more pressing dental need such as a cavity that is bothering you or swollen gums. Don’t let these problems get worse and possibly more expensive to treat.

Call 907-349-0022 to book a consultation at Excellence In Dentistry in Anchorage. We are located at 1000 East O’Malley, Suite 101, Anchorage, Alaska.

Dr. Dr. Kirk Johnson is one of the most sought-after Anchorage dentists and stays at the forefront of cosmetic dentistry techniques and technology. A radiant smile is possible for anyone in the Southern Alaska area, regardless of issues such as tetracycline stains, periodontal disease, or missing teeth.

If you are planning to use flex account funds for dentistry, make sure you check your employer’s guidelines for eligible cosmetic or restorative dental procedures.

With a smile makeover at Excellence In Dentistry, what will your ‘after’ photo look like?

Each separate restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedure performed in Anchorage can address a specific dental problem. For example, a porcelain veneer can perfect the surface of a tooth that is discolored or slightly misshapen. Dental bonding can fill a small chip in an otherwise healthy tooth.

Some Anchorage dental problems are more extensive and require a combination of procedures. Crown restoration combined with soft tissue grafts can restore a severely decayed tooth with the root exposed. A bone graft and dental implant can restore a missing tooth in an area where the jaw bone has receded. Orthodontia followed by tooth bleaching totally transforms a smile by straightening and whitening.

What is the difference between tooth bleaching and whitening? Whitening is the term for procedures which remove surface stains to restore the degree of natural lightness. Bleaching goes even further by lightening teeth beyond their natural shade. That’s right: you don’t have to resign yourself to yellow teeth even if they have been that way your whole life! The natural shade of your teeth, by the way, like your skin and hair color, is determined by genetics.

Some Anchorage smiles have been gleaming for years by regular whitening. You can maintain the whiteness of your teeth just as you maintain your fitness level. (Of course it is a lot easier to make a quick visit to your Anchorage dentist once a year for whitening touch-ups than sweating in a gym several times a week!)

We live in an age where severe dental problems can be permanently corrected. You don’t have to participate in a TV makeover show in Hollywood to access these premium cosmetic dental procedures. They are available right here in Anchorage, Wasilla and Palmer. Dr. Kirk Johnson has the same advanced training and extensive experience as the dentists who keep the smiles of famous actors and musicians camera-ready.

Schedule a consultation at Excellence In Dentistry to discover the perfect combination of procedures to achieve your ultimate smile. Our phone number is 907-349-0022.

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.

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.

• denal implants
• Invisalign invisible braces
• porcelain veneers
• http://www.AnchorageSmiles.com

Will your Alaska dental insurance cover Anchorage cosmetic dental procedures? Many dentistry clients assume their dental insurance won’t cover any cosmetic dental procedures. This is probably true for tooth bleaching or first time dental bonding. However, many Alaska dental insurance plans and dental supplemental plans cover orthodontia and any treatment needed to repair damage from an injury. Medical insurance and worker’s compensation plans may also cover injury treatment.

Some Alaska dental insurance plans cover replacement porcelain veneers in certain circumstances. Check with your carrier for benefit specifics if you need replacement veneers due to deterioration. We can then discuss dental treatment options such as replacement veneers or porcelain crowns. When the work is completed, we may be able to help you submit your dental claim form if your plan requires one.

If you are in need of any kind of dental treatment; from a cleaning to major restorative work, come in to Excellence In Dentistry on 1000 East O’Malley, Suite 101, in Anchorage. You can meet our caring team, undergo a thorough evaluation and discuss financing options. Even if you do not have Alaska dental insurance, let’s talk. Top quality Anchorage dental treatment is a wise investment and may be more affordable than you think.

Dr. Kirk Johnson of Excellence In Dentistry has been proudly serving Anchorage area residents since 1987. Excellence In Dentistry is a network dental provider for many Alaska dental insurance plans.

• dental implants
• Invisalign invisible braces
• porcelain veneers
• http://www.AnchorageSmiles.com

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

Most Anchorage residents have plenty of things to smile about.

However, there are some folks who avoid smiling at all costs. Are you one of those people who cover their mouth when they laugh? Do you keep your mouth closed when someone takes a picture of you? Have you been hiding unsightly teeth for years?

It’s time to take care of those tooth problems and get a new lease on life.

Dr. Kirk Johnson DDS at Excellence In Dentistry in Anchorage can make it happen!

If you are missing one or more teeth, talk to us about dental implants. A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement that includes both root and crown. Because it is anchored into the jawbone, it looks and feels like a natural tooth.

Are your teeth yellow or gray? Have your teeth whitened at our Anchorage dental practice and experience an instant transformation.

Many of your friends and neighbors have benefited from porcelain veneers. They correct several types of imperfections and can be applied in just one visit to our Anchorage dental office.

Dr. Kirk Johnson DDS
Excellence In Dentistry
http://www.AnchorageSmiles.com

A cosmetic dental consultation is informative and enjoyable. As the patient, you’ll have the opportunity to describe your goals and expectations. If this is your first visit to the practice, you’ll discover how comfortable you feel with our dentist and other members of the treatment team. Cosmetic dentistry consultations help us provide the highest level of Anchorage area dental care.

This is the time to ask questions about possible procedures such as teeth whitening. You can look at pictures of actual porcelain veneer patients and dental implant recipients. Our cosmetic dentistry patients really get excited when they see images of the possible results for their teeth.

By listening effectively and asking the right questions, Dr. Kirk Johnson can fully assess the many variables unique to your needs.

Dr. Kirk Johnson thoroughly examines teeth, gums and biting function. Complete x-rays are taken. Existing dental work, tooth color, tooth alignment, and gum condition are taken into consideration. Medical history and lifestyle are also important factors. Anchorage cosmetic dentistry costs are outlined.

Taking the first step by scheduling a cosmetic dental consultation is your key to understanding your options and preparing to make decisions. Learn about the possibilities for your smile at Excellence In Dentistry; give us a call at 907-349-0022.

I’m Dr. Kirk Johnson of Excellence In Dentistry. My office is located at 1000 East O’Malley, Suite 101, Anchorage, Alaska. One of the best things about being an Anchorage area dentist is interacting with my patients. During initial dental consultations, I listen carefully to my patient’s short and long term dental goals.

I enjoy discussing options and developing effective treatment plans tailored specifically to each person. Some of my clients desire a total smile makeover. I explain in detail the treatments available including teeth whitening, dental veneers, orthodontia, crown restoration, and dental implants.

If a client is nervous about undergoing treatment, we discuss oral conscious sedation. Oral conscious sedation, sometimes called oral sedation dentistry, is a great option for anxious patients. Dental visits do not have to be painful!

After the treatment has been completed, it is very gratifying for me to see my patient’s reaction to their new smile.

I never get tired of creating dramatic smile transformations for the best clients in Alaska!

If you have been considering a smile makeover, let’s talk about your smile. Call Dr. Kirk Johnson at Excellence In Dentistry at 907-349-0022 to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation.

Dental crowns have been used in dentistry for over 2000 years. There is evidence that the Etruscans experimented with crowns on teeth using ivory and bone as early as 700 B.C. By 200 A.D., they began using gold crowns to construct artificial teeth. Ancient Egyptians fashioned tooth replacements out of seashells and then hammered them into their gums (Oral sedation, anyone?).

Porcelain crowns were first used in the 1800s. With the refining of metal casting methods in the 1900s, crown dentistry advanced significantly.

Today, crowns are strong, comfortable and are made to match your surrounding teeth.

Dental crowns (also called caps) cover the entire visible portion of the tooth and are cemented in place. Crowns are used to strengthen teeth that have been worn down or weakened by decay or injury. Crowns are also used to restore the original shape of a tooth or solely to improve the appearance of a tooth.

The most common types of crowns are:

• All-porcelain (ceramic)
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal
• Gold

The material used is determined by several factors. If you suspect you need a crown, want to replace an old crown, or want to learn about other cosmetic dentistry procedures, call dentist Dr. Kirk Johnson at 907-349-0022. Excellence In Dentistry is located at 1000 East O’Malley, Suite 101, Anchorage, AK in Anchorage. We have been serving clients in the Eagle River area since 1987. We can recommend the best tooth restoration or cosmetic dentistry option for you.