Unfortunately, going to the dentist’s office is associated by many with discomfort and pain. Consequently, a large number of people avoid going to the dentist unless absolutely necessary. Not only does compromise oral health, but it also works to reinforce the irrational aversion to going to the dentist. Fortunately, there are techniques employed today by some dental practices such as the one found at gfamilydentistry.com that can all but eliminate the unpleasantness of professional oral care.

Sedation dentistry, or “sleep dentistry” as it is often called, is a series of anesthesia methods used in oral care to reduce patients’ anxiety and discomfort during procedures. There are several different ways in which it’s done, all of which offer a specific set of advantages to potential patients.

The most commonly used sedation method for dental procedures is nitrous oxide, or laughing gas. This substance is inhaled through a mask prior to procedures. The patient can almost immediately expect anxiety and nervousness to subside significantly. Those who use nitrous oxide remain fully conscious and aware, but simply do not experience the kind of mental stress that is often associated with oral procedures. When used in combination with a local anesthetic, laughing gas is quite effective in eliminating oral health patients’ psychological aversion to the dentist’s office.

Alternatively, more powerful pain-killing and anti-anxiety medication can be used to improve dental patients’ experience. These medications are typically administered in one of two ways. Patients have the option to take an oral medication prior to the procedure, or to receive medication intravenously once they sit down in the patients’ chair.

Patients who choose these types of sedation describe their experience as sleep-like. Often, they have little to no memory of the procedure itself. Because these medications are more powerful and affect patients’ alertness, a ride to and from the office is required. Still, those with a serious fear of oral procedures might find these medications more effective.

Whether a given patient needs a cavity filling or a cosmetic procedure, the practice of sedation dentistry can do wonders to limit the mental and physical discomfort associated with going to the dentist. With the varying options made available, there is good reason to consider sedation dentistry as an avenue to finally get the oral care you need.

Tags: Cometic Dentist, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dallas, Dentist Office, Sedation Dentistry, sleep dentistry, Texas

Complete dentistry is often mis-characterized as a “drill’em and fill’em” mentality, as if every single tooth needs to get the most elaborate, expensive (and painful) treatment available. In truth, complete dentistry is really more of a conservative, pragmatic, cost effective approach to dentistry. A doctor who practices complete dentistry is not only trying to take care of your mouth, they’re trying to take care of you, and that means helping you to save money in the long run by taking full care of your teeth today.

Signs and Symptoms

The real purpose of complete dentistry is to address dental problems before they become problems. With a few x-rays and checkups now, a little cleaning when you need it, you can completely forego any costly, painful treatments later on down the line. Complete dentistry means fewer extractions, fewer root canals, in other words, it’s actually a lot less expensive and a lot less painful than waiting for something to go wrong and fixing it then. Think of it as regularly maintaining and caring for your car so you don’t need to take it to the garage to get fixed once every couple of months.

Why is This So Important?

Cosmetic dentistry is helpful in giving you the smile you want, the self confidence you need, but what a lot of people don’t know is that cracked and cavity ridden teeth can actually affect your health in more ways than one. For instance, people with poor teeth are more likely to suffer heart disease thanks to bacteria that thrives in the mouth. Complete dentistry can help to make your mouth a little cleaner and safer. Proper cleaning, regular checkups and the treatments you need: it’s not a complicated approach to dentistry, but it works.

Tags: Cometic Dentist, Complete Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dallas, Dentist Office, Family Dentist, G Family Dentistry, Plano, Texas

Congratulations to Dr. Jacob Grapevine, D.D.S.! He recently completed the Dawson Academy certification and is a Scholar Award recipient. 

Also, don’t forget to “like” G Family Dentistry on Facebook for a chance to win a free Sonicare electric toothbrush!

Tags: Cometic Dentist, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dallas, Facebook Giveaways, Family Dentist

Unfortunately, going to the dentist’s office is associated by many with discomfort and pain. Consequently, a large number of people avoid going to the dentist unless absolutely necessary. Not only does compromise oral health, but it also works to reinforce the irrational aversion to going to the dentist. Fortunately, there are techniques employed today by some dental practices such as the one found at gfamilydentistry.com that can all but eliminate the unpleasantness of professional oral care.

Sedation dentistry, or “sleep dentistry” as it is often called, is a series of anesthesia methods used in oral care to reduce patients’ anxiety and discomfort during procedures. There are several different ways in which it’s done, all of which offer a specific set of advantages to potential patients.

The most commonly used sedation method for dental procedures is nitrous oxide, or laughing gas. This substance is inhaled through a mask prior to procedures. The patient can almost immediately expect anxiety and nervousness to subside significantly. Those who use nitrous oxide remain fully conscious and aware, but simply do not experience the kind of mental stress that is often associated with oral procedures. When used in combination with a local anesthetic, laughing gas is quite effective in eliminating oral health patients’ psychological aversion to the dentist’s office.

Alternatively, more powerful pain-killing and anti-anxiety medication can be used to improve dental patients’ experience. These medications are typically administered in one of two ways. Patients have the option to take an oral medication prior to the procedure, or to receive medication intravenously once they sit down in the patients’ chair.

Patients who choose these types of sedation describe their experience as sleep-like. Often, they have little to no memory of the procedure itself. Because these medications are more powerful and affect patients’ alertness, a ride to and from the office is required. Still, those with a serious fear of oral procedures might find these medications more effective.

Whether a given patient needs a cavity filling or a cosmetic procedure, the practice of sedation dentistry can do wonders to limit the mental and physical discomfort associated with going to the dentist. With the varying options made available, there is good reason to consider sedation dentistry as an avenue to finally get the oral care you need.

Tags: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dallas, Dentist Office, Family Dentist, Plano, Sedation Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of teeth. Anything from tooth whitening to braces or implants will improve the look of a persons teeth, as well as improve their confidence. One option available for someone with discolored, chipped, or malformed teeth is the use of porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin shells of dental porcelain that fit over teeth and look very natural, even reflecting light just like your regular enamel would. After meeting with a dentist to decide if veneers are right for you, the dentist will make impressions of your teeth so that you can see the final result of your new teeth before the procedure is done. The dentist will then remove a small amount of enamel from your teeth, and then fit a temporary set of veneers to get you by until your permanent set arrives. In two to three weeks, when your veneers arrive your will get the chance to examine the veneers before the dentist bonds them to your teeth.

 Tooth whitening is a quick and easy way to get results that can make a big impact on appearance. Whitening can be done at home or in a dentist office, depending on how quickly and conveniently you want results. At home whitening is done using custom fitted trays and a professional grade whitening gel. At home whitening provides fast results that can be achieved at your convenience. In office whitening provides immediate results that are an average of eight shades whiter! One system for in office whitening is the Zoom whitening system, which uses a whitening gel and specially designed light to achieve dramatic results. There are several options available to help align crooked teeth. Traditional metal braces or the newer “invisible” braces can help achieve a straighter smile. Dental crowns can be used to cover teeth that are badly worn with either stains, chips, or cracks. Cosmetic dental crowns are made of zirconia and porcelain, so they don’t have a metal ring at the top that traditional dental crowns have. Crowns can be used in conjunction with implants to replace a lost tooth.

Tags: Cometic Dentist, Cosmetic Crowns, Cosmetic Dentist, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dallas, Dental Implant Restoration, Famiy Dentistry, Plano, Teeth Veneers, Zoom Whitening

Many people with a missing tooth, or missing teeth, are opting for dental implants rather than traditional flippers or dentures. The dental implant is a titanium root placed within the bone in either the upper or lower jaw. Once implanted, the root can support crowns, bridges and permanent dentures. Dental implants can also be used to anchor orthodontic treatments.

The modern dental implant had its start in 1952 and, more recently, to 1969 when the first US patent for titanium dental implants was filed. Dental implants today are shaped like small screws and can be placed as soon as a tooth is extracted with success comparable to those placed into healed bone. Your dentist can decide the best course of option depending on the severity of dental work necessary.

Prior to implants being inserted, your dentist will take radiographs and, on occasion, a CT scan. Your dentist will drill holes into the bone of your jaw with a high speed drill, possibly using a stent to guide the way to proper placement. Your bone will need to grow on to the surface of the implant prior to having a crown or bridge added. This is to ensure stability in your new tooth or teeth.

Healing time after implant surgery will vary from person to person. It can be expected that proper healing will take anywhere from two to six months. Many modern implants are now immediately loaded, meaning the tooth is extracted, the implant is placed and the crown is attached on the same day. Data shows that, in a healthy mouth, success rates are comparable to delayed procedures.

Implants offer a great alternative to flippers and dentures. They are permanent fixtures in your mouth, require no special cleaning and there is no worry of potential embarrassment caused by them slipping like dentures and flippers are prone to do. While implants are an option for many, for some they are not. You must have good bone structure within your jaw to support the implants. Your dentist can tell you if you are a candidate for dental implants.

Tags: Cometic Dentist, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implant Restoration, Dental Implants, Dentist Office, Family Dentist, G Family Dentistry, Texas

A person’s smile is often one of the first things that other may notice. This is true whether the individual has a bright, white smile or a few dental problems. However, there are ways to improve this. A smile makeover can make a dramatic difference in the person’s smile and their self-esteem, even if the person suffers from dental caries or just a few crooked teeth.

What is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is literally just that, a makeover of the teeth that results in their best smile. It’s not just simply another cosmetic procedure. Rather, a dentist can help beautify the client’s smile by fixing some of the most common dental problems. This can include providing both cosmetic and restorative dentistry to the patient. Unlike other treatments offered by some clinics to enhance the appearance, the dentist takes a holistic approach to the client’s dental needs.

How is it Performed?

The type of services rendered with a smile makeover is determined on an individual basis. All dental care is personalized. To determine the treatments necessary, the dentist will first perform a thorough examination. This may include x-rays and imaging, as well as visual inspection. Working as a team, the dentist and client decide on a unique treatment plan guided by the desired outcome and condition of the teeth. Therefore, the service performed can vary significantly from one patient to the next.

What About Results?

The results from a smile makeover are amazing! It literally can transform the way the person looks and ultimately, how they feel. The latest technology is utilized efficiently to make molds and replicas, ensuring that the person’s new smile is truly their own. Since the patient is involved throughout the entire decision process, they are guaranteed to get the look that they have always desired.

Tags: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dallas, Dentist Office, Family Dentist, G Family Dentistry, Plano, Restorative Dentistry, Smile Makeover, Texas, Zoom Whitening

“I cannot stop smiling.”

“Dr. Grapevine went beyond my wants and gave me a better smile I never thought possible. I just wanted to replace my missing teeth, he not only gave me teeth, but he boosted my self-esteem and my smile is ten times better than before. I never wanted to show my teeth and now I cannot stop smiling and I am always looking at my teeth.”

“Stop asking around for a good dentist, because this one is the best!”

“As a healthcare professional and a small business owner, free-time is a rare & precious commodity. Dr. Grapevine and his staff amazed me with their welcoming attitudes, their efficient procedures, and attention to even the smallest detail! Stop asking around for a good dentist, because this one is the best!”

“I cannot believe that I would have had a better overall experience anywhere else.”

“I have never been to anyone as gentle and sensitive to my comfort.”

“I am delighted to have found Dr. Grapevine! I have been hurt by dentists in the past – Dr. Grapevine and his staff are extremely helpful and friendly. I received full explanations for any proposed treatment with the need, benefits, and alternatives provided. I have never been to anyone as gentle and sensitive to my comfort.”

“I love to smile now.”

“I was enormously impressed with the work that Dr. Grapevine put into designing the crowns, so they would look amazing. The process was as painless as possible and before I knew it, I had the teeth that I had always wanted. I love to smile now, I don’t feel like I have to hide my teeth, and I actually like having my picture taken.”

Tags: Cometic Dentist, Cosmetic Crowns, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dallas Dentist, Dentist Office, Family Dentist, G Family Dentistry, Patient Testimonials, Plano, Restorative Dentistry

Good teeth say a lot about a person. Having straight, properly aligned teeth can mean the difference between success and failure in business and personal relationships. In the past misaligned teeth could only corrected with metal braces. However most traditional metal braces are ugly and difficult to deal with. Because they sometimes take years to properly realign the teeth people wearing them often had to put their lives on hold. But no anymore. Now there is Invisalign. Invisalign is as effective as metal braces for aligning the teeth, but they are virtually invisible to the naked eye. That means you can use your brilliant smile to conduct business or woo a mate while Invisalign works to permanently realign your teeth.

It sounds like a miracle but it is actually solid science. Invisalign uses a series of clear removable teeth aligners to straighten the teeth without anyone being aware you are wearing teeth braces. The braces were developed and patented by Invisalign to provide wearers with the ability continue with their normal lives while their teeth seem to become magically aligned. The technique has been in use for less than a decade and about 40 million aligners have been sold.

The Invisalign process generally takes about a year. Impressions are taken of the teeth and a three dimensional model is made. The teeth are individualized and the aligner is designed using specialized software. The orthodontist approves the model and the plastic resin aligner is shipped. People love the Invisalign method for many reasons. They can be removed so they can eat, drink or brush their teeth. Invisalign is much more comfortable than metal braces. There is no rotting of the teeth or damage to the gum as in over 50% of patients with traditional metal braces. Computerized treatment planning means the patient can see what their smile will look like before they decide on whether to use Invisalign.

Invisalign not only aligns your teeth in less time than other methods, it gives patients the ability to pick their smile and eat, drink and be merry while their teeth are being aligned.

Tags: Cometic Dentist, Dallas, Dentist Office, Family Dentist, G Family Dentistry, Invisable Braces, Invisalign, Plano, Texas, TX

Restorative dentistry can be a tool used to change the appearance of your smile while also increasing your general feelings of well-being. When you experience issues with your teeth and gums, whether from cavities or misaligned teeth placement, your whole body can suffer. Seeing a professional dentist is the best solution to your problems.

Signs of Problems

Restorative dentist can assist you in overcoming all the symptoms associated with problems of the teeth and gums. For example, some problems can lead to joint or muscle soreness, cavities, or even broken teeth. You may have good dental hygiene, but sometimes this simply isn’t enough to overcome these problems, especially when you are experiencing an issue with tooth alignment or placement.

What Is It?

Restorative dentistry is a field of dentistry that finds and treats the real cause of your pain or symptoms. You will typically have an evaluation appointment that includes x-rays and an oral exam to find any current issues that you have with your teeth and gums. You may need to have a cleaning or take antibiotics before beginning treatment if you have any infected teeth.

Advantages

The biggest advantage of choosing restorative dentistry is that you will look and feel better after treatment. Whether you have missing teeth or want to correct a misalignment, the end result is a happy, healthy smile that you will love showing off. Your dentist will work with you to provide a complete evaluation and treatment plan that is customized for you.

The treatment plan will typically be discussed in detail with you during the evaluation appointment, allowing you to understand each step of the process and why it is needed. You may also be referred to another specialist if you need cosmetic dentistry or an oral surgeon to complete the treatment plan.

Tags: Dallas, Dentist Office, Family Dentist, G Family Dentistry, Plano, Restorative Dentistry, Texas