Dr. Ami Barakat

Cosmetic, General and Neuromuscular Dentistry

Archive for November, 2010

Dental Veneers vs. Dental Bonding

Friday, November 12th, 2010

When you want a healthier, more beautiful smile, how can you know which procedure is the right one for you?

A dental consultation with an experienced, dedicated and caring Ottawa cosmetic dentist is your first step. During your consultation, you can ask questions, get educated answers, and find out about procedure costs, so you can plan ahead for your bright new smile.

With dental bonding, Dr. Ami Barakat applies a tooth-colored resin to your tooth and then uses a special light to bond the material to the enamel. Unlike porcelain veneers, which correct a large portion of your teeth, dental bonding is mostly used for minor repairs, such as fixing a chipped tooth or closing spaces between teeth.

Porcelain veneers are created from dental materials which are tough, stain-resistant and lustrous. In only a few days, or perhaps hours, Dr. Barakat can create your gorgeous new smile, which can last as long as 15 years with no chips, breakage or staining. All you have to do is provide excellent oral care, and followup visits twice a year so Br. Barakat can ensure your veneers are being properly maintained.

Which option is best for you?

Each cosmetic dental procedure has its benefits and potential drawbacks. At Dentistry @ Main, we’re dedicated to creating your most beautiful, most functional smile. We will help you understand your options and choose the procedures that will give you optimal results.  Please contact our Dentistry @ Main today, serving Ottawa, Stittsville, and Kanata, Ontario, to schedule your free consultation.

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Porcelain Veneers and Cavities

Wednesday, November 10th, 2010

Porcelain veneers are a durable, natural-looking way to get a million-dollar smile, but did you know that they won’t prevent you from getting cavities?

A cavity is simply a hole in a tooth caused by decay that begins with plaque. Plaque is a sticky, yellow substance which contains bacteria that feed on the sugars left on our teeth by the foods we eat. These bacteria produce acid, which can eat through the enamel of the tooth, eventually causing a cavity.

Although harmful bacteria can’t penetrate porcelain veneers, they can infiltrate the areas of the tooth not covered by the veneer.  The veneers are constructed from a mold of your teeth, and specially designed to cover dental flaws like chips, gaps or misalignment. However, the porcelain veneer is only placed on the exterior of your natural tooth.  Therefore, the back and sides of your teeth are still vulnerable to cavities.

Finding Cavities among Veneers

The first sign of a toothache may be a dull ache, a clear indication the infection has spread from the enamel to the tooth pulp.  Biting down or chewing can be painful.  Left untreated, the tooth may break and become loose. At this point, treatment is more invasive. You may lose natural teeth. To avoid this, take good care of your teeth, even when you have porcelain veneers.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Even if you’re not experiencing a toothache, floss and brush twice a day to prevent the buildup of cavity-causing bacteria in between teeth. Visit Dr. Barakat regularly to ensure your investment in a healthy, beautiful smile will serve you for years to come.

Please contact us today to schedule a thorough dental examination and cleaning. Dentistry @ Main serves Ottawa, Kanata, and Stittsville, Ontario.

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How Durable Are Porcelain Veneers?

Monday, November 8th, 2010

Are porcelain veneers tough enough to withstand ice chewing, teeth grinding, and popping bottle caps? Not quite.

A porcelain veneer is a very thin wafer of plastic or porcelain bonded to the front and biting edges of your teeth. Veneers are a natural-looking method for enhancing the appearance of teeth and correcting any flaws or damage due to discoloration, gapped teeth, crooked teeth, or broken and chipped teeth. Dr. Ami Barakat is expertly trained in applying porcelain veneers and can help you decide whether this is the best cosmetic dentistry option for you.

Dr. Barakat offers a gallery of porcelain veneer patient “before and after” pictures.  See for yourself how porcelain veneers can change a smile forever.

What Makes Porcelain Veneers So Durable?

Veneers can be made from various materials, such as plastic, but porcelain is by far the most durable. Porcelain veneers are manufactured in a lab, and are very thin and delicate. Once bonded to your teeth, they become incredibly strong and durable. Veneers can last up to 15 years, or more. The better care you take of your veneers, the longer they will last.

Porcelain veneers are also stain resistant. If you drink coffee, black tea, or red wine, you can still enjoy those beverages without worrying that your new smile will lose its luster.

But even though porcelain veneers are surprisingly durable, they can chip or come off. Avoid ice chewing or using your teeth to pry open objects like bottles or packages. In addition, it’s important to exercise regularly, and perform proper oral care, such as brushing and flossing.  Visit Dr. Ami Barakat at least twice a year for regular cleanings and dental exams. Dr. Barakat and his expert team will instruct you on proper care of your new smile.

Please contact our Ottawa cosmetic dentist today to learn more about porcelain veneers available Dentistry @ Main, serving Ottawa, Stittsville, and Kanata, Ontario.

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