Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole Blog

Durability of Veneers

2012-01-30T08:10:00.000-08:00

One of the concerns people have about having veneers placed is whether their veneers will last. Dental veneers, sometimes called porcelain veneers, are actually highly durable and with proper placement and care can last decades. The durability of veneers depends on three main factors:

Material is one of the most important factors in determining the durability of porcelain veneers. In recent years, the porcelain used to make veneers has become much more durable. Instead of being a pure ceramic, in most cases it is combined with a plastic material to create a composite material that is both strong and tough. Innovations in manufacturing have also dramatically reduced the incidence of microscopic flaws that can sometimes lead to premature failure of veneers.

Placement of your veneers can also help them survive or lead to premature failure. In getting porcelain veneers, it is important to work with a neuromuscular dentist or other dentist who appreciates the importance of your bite in protecting veneers from undue biting forces. If you are trying to cover teeth that have been chipped when biting or have numerous stress cracks, it is important to have your bite evaluated and potentially corrected to ensure your veneers do not suffer the same fate.

Care of your veneers is another important element to ensuring maximum lifetime of your dental veneers. If you follow Dr. Walsh-Cole’s instructions and commonsense guidelines such as not using your veneers as bottle-openers, you will help your dental veneers last as long as possible.

With all the above, studies have shown that about 95% of veneers last 11 years or more, with many of them lasting 20 years.

If you have more questions about dental veneers or want to schedule a consultation to talk to Dr. Walsh-Cole in person at our Encinitas office, please contact us today.

Affordability of Cosmetic Dentistry

2011-12-29T08:08:00.000-08:00

Cosmetic dentistry used to be only for movie stars and the super-rich, but in recent years technological innovations and improvements in dental techniques have made cosmetic dentistry more affordable and more practical for people in many different walks of life, probably even for you.

Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole believes that everyone deserves a beautiful, healthy smile, and works hard to ensure that cosmetic dentistry is affordable to everyone who wants it. We keep our pricing consistent with the quality of materials and expertise used in giving you the outstanding results you desire, and we offer cosmetic dentistry financing through Springstone and CareCredit.

When considering cosmetic dentistry, it’s also important to remember that price should not be your main deciding factor. Instead, you should consider value: the quality of cosmetic dentistry you receive and the longevity of your results.

To learn more about cosmetic dentistry procedures and pricing, please contact us today for a cosmetic dentistry consultation at our Encinitas, California office.

What can Porcelain Veneers Fix?

2011-11-28T09:52:00.000-08:00

Porcelain veneers fix cosmetic tooth flaws by concealing those flaws. A veneer is a thin tooth-shaped piece of porcelain. Placed over the front surface of teeth, porcelain veneers improve the appearance of:

• Slight crookedness
• Minor chips and cracks
• Stains and discoloration
• Gaps between teeth
• Minor tooth wear and surface problems
• Uneven tooth size and length

Determining who is a candidate for porcelain veneers is a primary concern of cosmetic dentists. Under certain conditions, porcelain veneers are not the best treatment for your teeth. If your teeth have any major damage, or if you have serious bite misalignment, dental veneers may not be able to meet your needs. In some cases, severely damaged teeth require a restoration like a tooth crown.

Porcelain veneers are often an ideal solution for people seeking cosmetic smile improvement in a short period of time. The veneers procedure is completed over a few dental appointments and, once applied, you will enjoy immediate aesthetic results.

If you would like to find out if you are a candidate for porcelain veneers and you live in San Diego or the surrounding California areas, please contact experienced Encinitas cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole to schedule a consultation.

Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist

2011-11-28T09:51:00.000-08:00

When you choose a cosmetic dentist, you are putting the appearance of your smile in the hands of this professional. As such, pursuing cosmetic dentistry and the right cosmetic dentist requires a bit of research and perseverance on your part.

Items to consider include:

• What cosmetic dentistry services are you interested in? Would you like a cosmetic dentist who can also provide general dental care?

• How long has your prospective cosmetic dentist been in practice? An experienced dentist will have a broader range of cosmetic knowledge and can better determine the procedures and treatments for which you are a candidate.

• Has the dentist attended the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI)? This post-graduate learning institution has educated many of today’s leading cosmetic dentists. A dentist who has attended LVI has taken the extra step to provide patients with the latest dental knowledge, technology and techniques.

Cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole has had her dental practice since 1984. She is LVI-trained and has participated in many additional avenues of continuing education. Dr. Walsh-Cole provides comprehensive dental services, including improving the aesthetics of her patients’ smiles.

If you live in Encinitas, Carlsbad, San Diego or the surrounding California areas, please contact experienced cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole to schedule a consultation.

Dental Veneers vs. Dental Crowns

2011-10-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

To repair damaged teeth, your dentist will first determine if the damage is purely cosmetic. A cosmetically flawed tooth can be effectively concealed with a porcelain veneer. Severe tooth damage may require a dental crown.

Porcelain veneers are used to improve cosmetic imperfections, including:

• Chips and cracks
• Stains
• Uneven length
• Uneven shape
• Gaps

A major advantage of porcelain veneers is that your natural tooth is retained. A minimal amount of enamel is removed from the surface of your tooth, but the rest of the tooth structure is not altered. Porcelain veneers are very thin shells of porcelain placed over the front surface of your tooth; dental crown s are like caps fitting over your entire tooth. The placement of a dental crown requires your dentist to remove a significant amount of your natural tooth.

A dental crown protects and restores a severely damaged tooth. The tooth may have been weakened by decay, or the tooth may be broken or badly cracked. Dental crowns are also used to restore a tooth after a root canal. In these cases, a tooth crown provides restoration that a dental veneer may not be able to achieve.

To find out if porcelain veneers or dental crowns are the solution for you, please contact San Diego, California cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole to schedule a consultation.

TMJ Treatment

2011-10-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

If you suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), your treatment will depend on the cause of your TMJ. There are several causes of TMJ symptoms, including:
• Misaligned bite
• Unbalanced teeth
• Physical stress on the jaw and surrounding muscles
• Strained jaw muscles and joints

Treatments for TMJ include:

• Oral appliances
• Dental restorations
• Jaw exercises
• Medications

Oral appliances are mouth guards and splints. These devices treat TMJ disorders by positioning the jaw in a way that does not place excessive pressure on the TMJ. If your TMJ symptoms are caused by grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep, a nighttime mouth guard will keep your upper and lower teeth from scraping against one another.

Structurally damaged teeth can cause your bite to place stress on the TMJ. Dental restorations like fillings and tooth crowns restore the structure of your teeth and balance the biting surface.

Massage techniques and medications may not solve the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder, but these treatments can alleviate painful symptoms. Stretching exercises relax tension in the muscles surrounding your jaw, which may be causing your discomfort.

For TMJ treatment in San Diego, California, please contact the experienced neuromuscular and cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole to schedule a consultation.

TMJ Symptoms

2011-10-26T08:41:00.000-07:00

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) causes a variety of painful and uncomfortable symptoms. The TMJ is the delicate joint connecting your jaw to your skull. Disorders affecting the TMJ can result in:
• Pain and tension around the jaw
• Migraine-like headaches
• Clicking or popping noises in the jaw
• Pain in and around the ears
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Toothache
• Ringing in ears
• Earache
• Facial swelling

Because the symptoms are not necessarily felt in the jaw, TMJ can easily be misdiagnosed. A TMJ-related headache may be temporarily alleviated with over-the-counter medications, but the cause of your headaches may be going untreated.

If you experience one or more of these symptoms and have yet to find effective relief, you should contact an experienced dentist. Dentists who are skilled in neuromuscular dentistry examine your jaw, teeth and bite, and use diagnostic equipment to determine if a TMJ disorder is causing your symptoms.
Depending on the cause of your TMJ symptoms, several treatment approaches may be taken to reposition the jaw and align your bite, including:
• Mouth guards and splints
• Dental fillings
• Dental crowns
• Orthodontics
• Jaw exercises

For TMJ diagnosis in San Diego, California and surrounding areas, please contact experienced neuromuscular and cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole to schedule a consultation.

On-the-Go Teeth Whitening Products

2011-08-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

A bright, white smile can have a dramatic impact on your appearance, making you look younger and more vibrant. While professional in-office teeth whitening treatments can help you achieve a dazzling, bright smile, the results will inevitably fade over time. Fortunately, San Diego cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary Wash-Cole now offers two on-the-go teeth whitening products to help you maintain your brilliant smile for years to come.

Both of these products comes in a small applicator pen which you can carry in your purse or pocket. Each has its benefits, and after undergoing your professional in-office teeth whitening treatment, Dr. Wash-Cole can recommend the best option for your needs.

The Chic-Flic™ TOGO Teeth Whitening & Lip Gloss Plumper Pen offers the following benefits:

• Contains built-in mirrors and mini LED lights for easy application in any environment and lighting condition
• Possesses the power of a premium strength teeth whitening gel
• Provides 50+ applications
• Delivers noticeable whitening results in just a few applications
• Does not cause tooth sensitivity
• Instantly wipes away the film from red wine and coffee
• Includes a clinically proven lip plumper ingredient that delivers short- and long-term volume enhancement while moisturizing for smooth, round, age-defying lips

The Whiter Image™ TOGO Teeth Whitening Pen offers the following benefits:

• Easy brush-on applicator
• Maximum strength, mint flavored teeth whitening gel
• Specially designed for sensitive teeth
• Instantly dissolves the film from red wine and coffee
• For use by both men and women
• Includes 60+ applications with 4.5 ml of gel

To learn more about the benefits of these on-the-go tooth whitening products, please contact Dr. Mary Wash-Cole today. Dr. Wash-Cole serves patients in San Diego, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, California.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

2011-08-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

Porcelain veneers are thin facades of porcelain that are applied to the front of your teeth. They may or may not extend over the top of the tooth. Porcelain veneers can correct a number of common cosmetic complaints, including:

• Discolored teeth
• Uneven teeth
• Gapped teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Cracked teeth
• Worn or short teeth

Porcelain veneers are one of the most powerful tools for improving the appearance of your smile. If you have one tooth that is poorly shaped or otherwise unattractive, a single veneer can be used to help the appearance of that tooth match your other teeth. Or if your teeth are crooked, gapped, or otherwise unattractive, an entire set of porcelain veneers can be used to completely reshape your smile. Porcelain veneers can be crafted to meet your specifications. They can do more than just correct complaints about your smile: they can reshape your smile so it matches your personal style. If you want a smile that conveys youth, or energy, that makes you look friendly, masculine, feminine, or conveys other attributes of your character subtly but effectively.

If you would like to learn more about how porcelain veneers can improve the appearance of your smile, please contact San Diego cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole today to schedule an appointment.

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

2011-08-23T08:37:00.000-07:00

Cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized dental specialty. It is not like endodontics, which focuses on treating infections of the tooth pulp, or periodontics, which focuses on treating infections of the gums. Cosmetic dentistry is not specific to any single part or problem in dentistry.

So what is cosmetic dentistry? Cosmetic dentistry is a philosophy that encompasses every part of dentistry, every procedure a dentist performs. This dental philosophy has two major tenets. First, cosmetic dentists believe that part of the function of your smile is to be attractive. Second, cosmetic dentists believe that the healthiest, most functional smiles are also the most attractive.

So next time you are looking for a dentist to perform a dental procedure, any procedure, consider the impact cosmetic dentistry can have on your treatment. Straighter and more even teeth are better at chewing and biting. White teeth are visibly free of decay. Aesthetic dental crowns are often made of materials that more harmoniously fit in your mouth.

If you are looking for dental treatments that enhance the beauty, function, and health of your smile, seek out a cosmetic dentist. If you are in San Diego, Encinitas, Carlsbad, or other communities, Mary. A. Walsh-Cole can give you quality cosmetic dentistry care. To talk to her about your treatment, please call or email us today.

Instant Orthodontics

2011-08-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

For years, people have dreamed of instant orthodontics, not knowing that it is more than just a dream. For thousands of people, instant orthodontics is a welcome reality, as years of living with crooked teeth can be erased in just a few weeks.

The secret that makes instant orthodontics one of cosmetic dentistry's modern miracles is that it actually does not move your teeth. Instead, your tooth roots remain in place, but the visible teeth are reshaped using a combination of porcelain veneers and dental crowns to give you new straight teeth in just a couple of visits, as opposed to the months or years required for traditional orthodontics or Invisalign. Not everyone is a candidate for instant orthodontics, but those who are find the benefits attractive. In addition to the rapid time for results, benefits of instant orthodontics include:

• Additional conditions can be treated at the same time, including teeth that are cracked, chipped, discolored, or misshaped
• Can easily treat rotated teeth, which can be complicated to fix with traditional orthodontics
• No need for a retainer to maintain results

These combined benefits make instant orthodontics an important option to consider when you are looking at straightening crooked teeth.

To learn more about instant orthodontics or other cosmetic dentistry procedures we offer, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole.

Teeth Whitening

2011-08-19T07:54:00.000-07:00

Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedure. It is popular because darkened teeth are common, they make people look older and less attractive, and teeth whitening works.

Darkened teeth are common for many reasons. Teeth discolor naturally with age and with thinning enamel, but they can also be darkened more quickly due to the staining effects of common foods such as coffee, black tea, red wine, blueberries, and chocolate. Chances are you have many staining foods in your everyday diet.

Because teeth darken naturally with age, we automatically associate darkened teeth with age, but surveys show that darkened teeth can cause people to make many judgments about you, from the level of your intelligence to the quality of your personality.

The good news is that teeth whitening is a very effective treatment for darkened teeth. Whether you are using in-office treatment, take-home kits, or a combination, your teeth will become much brighter, shedding years from your appearance and helping you to make a good first impression on both personal and business contacts.

To learn more about teeth whitening and whether it can help you, please call or email Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole to schedule a consultation at her San Diego area practice.

How Do You Treat a Gummy Smile?

2011-06-06T09:39:00.000-07:00

Gummy smiles are relatively common dental conditions caused by excessive gum tissue or teeth that appear too short. Although gummy smiles are often the result of genetics and are not harmful, they can be embarrassing and occasionally (if the condition is due to inflammation) painful.

Fortunately, there are options for treating a gummy smile. San Diego cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole offers two methods for correcting a gummy smile. Your treatment will be determined largely by the cause of your gummy smile.

If your gummy smile is the result of excessive gum tissue, gum recontouring with a soft-tissue laser may be recommended. Gum recontouring allows Dr. Walsh-Cole to correct the density, shape and appearance of your gum tissue to make both your gums and teeth appear more proportionate and healthy.

When your teeth appear too small in relation to your gums due to abnormal growth or delayed eruption, porcelain veneers or dental bonding might provide a better solution. These options can be used to make your teeth appear longer, more symmetrical and properly sized.

In rare cases, such as gummy smiles due to jaw or lip conditions, a minor surgical procedure may be necessary. Depending on your specific condition, multiple treatments may be used in conjunction with one another to restore your smile.

If you live in the Encinitas, San Diego or Carlsbad, California, areas and would like to learn more about treatment options for a gummy smile, please contact experienced cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole to schedule your consultation.

Porcelain Veneers vs. Dental Crowns

2010-11-29T18:00:00.000-08:00

When it comes to reconstructive dental work, for many years the dental crown was one of only a few available choices. In recent years, porcelain veneers have become the preferred treatment for many situations where crowns might have been used. However, the dental crown is still the best option for many other types of dental reconstruction. Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole is experienced with both porcelain veneers and dental crowns, and can help determine which will be the better option for your particular situation.

Choosing Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are used to correct many cosmetic issues that formerly were treated with a dental crown, including:

Chipped teeth
Cracked teeth
Discolored teeth that do not respond to whitening treatment
Slight misalignment

Since placing porcelain veneers is a relatively non-invasive procedure, many cosmetic dentists prefer to take this approach for minor problems with the surface of the teeth. The majority of the tooth is preserved, and the look of the teeth can be changed dramatically.

Choosing a Dental Crown
In situations where the tooth is more seriously damaged but does not require extraction, a dental crown can be the best option to restore the look of the tooth. Situations where a dental crown might be preferred to porcelain veneers include:

Severe cracking
Root canal
Serious damage to the tooth

In these cases, where the tooth is severely damaged, a dental crown might be the best option since it will not only improve the tooth’s appearance, but also keep the remaining tooth from further damage. In the case of a root canal, a dental crown is always used to cover the existing tooth.

For more information about dental crowns and porcelain veneers, please contact San Diego area cosmetic dentist Mary Walsh-Cole, DMD to determine what approach will be the best for you.

Dental Crown Options

2010-10-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

One of the nice things about modern dentistry is the many choices it offers. In past years, a filling was a filling and we just trudged to the dentist’s office to get it done. Now you can have a white composite filling, a porcelain inlay, or a porcelain onlay, all of which will match your natural teeth and keep your smile attractive.

The same is true of dental crowns. Gold crowns were the traditional standard, and they are still available. But you can now choose between two kinds of porcelain crown -- an all-porcelain crown or a porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown, both of which are pearly white and matched to your natural teeth. Only you and Dr. Walsh-Cole will know they are crowns.

The reason gold alloy crowns were the standard is that gold never tarnishes, it is hard enough to give you a good chewing surface, and it is soft enough to never damage the opposing tooth. Gold is also highly durable. Gold crowns are a little easier on your pocketbook and we offer help with financing if that will enable you to go ahead right away with necessary dental work.

Perhaps you would prefer to have a white crown to harmonize with your smile. We will be happy to answer any questions you have as to which type of porcelain crown would be best for you. An all-porcelain crown has a ceramic lining whereas a PFM crown has a metal lining. They are both matched nicely to your tooth enamel color. They are also both as durable as gold crowns.

Sometimes a person has a gold crown replaced with a porcelain crown as part of their smile makeover. The choice of which sort of crown to have is partly a matter of where the tooth is that needs a crown – is it visible in your smile? – and partly one of cost. Each case is individual.

If you would like to have a personal consultation with Dr. Walsh-Cole, please call or email our Encinitas, California office today.

Why Do Teeth Darken?

2010-09-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

Nothing sets off your looks like a bright, white smile. Unfortunately, there are a number of factors that can make your teeth look dingy and discolored. If your teeth are no longer the sparkling white they once were, San Diego cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole can help you decide if tooth whitening is right for you.

What Makes Teeth Darken?
Some of the causes of darkened teeth are controllable, while others are not. Even taking the best possible care of your teeth might not eliminate all the factors that cause discoloration, which include:

Dark colored beverages or foods
Smoking
Tooth damage
Natural aging

Avoiding beverages such as wine or coffee and avoiding tobacco can greatly reduce the likelihood of darkened teeth, but the natural aging process also causes the enamel to lose its natural whiteness.

Can Tooth Whitening Help?
In many cases, tooth whitening can reduce or eliminate discoloration to the tooth enamel. Tooth whitening can be accomplished in several different ways:

At-home, over the counter whitening
In the office professional whitening
At-home professional whitening

Generally, over the counter tooth whitening products are not strong enough to provide satisfactory results. Tooth whitening performed by Dr. Walsh-Cole will provide a much better, longer lasting result. If the staining on your teeth is particularly stubborn, at-home professional whitening, applied to the teeth over a period of several days, can often produce dramatic results.

If your darkening tooth enamel is making you embarrassed to smile, please contact the San Diego, Encinitas and Carlsbad, California offices of Mary Walsh-Cole, DMD for additional information about tooth whitening.

TMD and Headaches

2010-08-16T13:35:00.000-07:00

Temperomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, has a wide range of symptoms, often making it difficult to diagnose. One of the most common symptoms is headaches. If you are suffering from headaches that cannot be attributed to other problems, and you suspect they are related to TMD, Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole can help.

What Causes TMD-Related Headaches?
The temperomandibular joint is the joint where the lower jaw, or mandible, meets the temporal bone of the skull. In TMD sufferers, this joint is not correctly aligned. Several major nerves run through this area, serving the face and the head. TMD can compress these nerves, or smaller nerves that connect to them, causing headaches as well as jaw, ear, neck and shoulder pain.

Another way TMD can cause headaches is through the overall tension resulting from having the jaw out of alignment. This tension can lead to persistent headaches that are difficult to diagnose.

How TMD Treatment Can Help
Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole treats TMD with neuromuscular dentistry, a diagnostic and treatment approach that allows the joint in the jaw to be placed back into proper alignment. Using a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) device, the jaw muscles are completely relaxed in order to determine the patient’s natural bite and proper alignment of the mandible. Then treatment such as porcelain veneers, crowns, traditional braces or mouth guards are used to ensure the jaw remains it its proper position. This removes the pressure from the nerves in the jaw and head, and reduces or eliminates headache pain.

For more information about TMD, TMD-related headaches and neuromuscular dentistry, please contact Mary Walsh-Cole, DMD, in her San Diego, Encino and Carlsbad, California cosmetic dentistry offices.

TMD Headaches vs. Migraines: What is the Difference?

2010-07-20T07:09:00.000-07:00

Headaches can be debilitating whether they are stress headaches or genuine migraines. But the proper source of a persistent headache must be determined in order to properly treat it. Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole can diagnose and treat headaches related to temperomandibular joint disorder, or TMD.

Causes of Headaches
Causes of headaches other than migraines are varied, and can range from relatively innocuous to life threatening. Common causes of headaches include:

Stress or tension
Eyestrain
Head injury
Tumors or other growths in the skull or brain

Migraines have different causes and often slightly different symptoms, including headache on one side of the head, accompanying visual disturbances such as auras or floating objects in the vision, nausea and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Though the exact cause of all migraines has yet to be discovered, in many cases they seem to occur due to constriction of blood vessels in the brain. Other migraines might be related to neurological issues.

TMD and Headaches

TMD can also cause headaches because the misalignment of the joint creates stress and tension in the neck, shoulders and upper back. It can also compress nerves that serve the face and head, leading to headaches as well as pain in the ears, jaw, shoulders and neck.

If you have persistent headaches, it is important to have them properly diagnosed. If no other diagnosis seems likely, your headaches may stem from TMD, and should be treated by a neuromuscular dentist.

If you have TMD-related headaches, please contact San Diego, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, California area neuromuscular dentist Mary Walsh-Cole, DMD. With her advanced training and extensive experience in neuromuscular dentistry, Dr. Walsh-Cole can help diagnose and treat your TMD and end your headache pain.

Dental Myths

2010-07-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

Many myths and misconceptions exist regarding dentistry. Like most myths, many of these are harmless, but others, if taken seriously, can lead to serious long-term dental problems. The best way to avoid falling into the trap of dental myths is to contact your dentist for more information. Cosmetic dentist Mary Walsh-Cole, DMD, can help you maintain your dental health and correct any misconceptions you may have about dental care and hygiene.

Some persistent dental myths include misconceptions about brushing. For example, these assumptions about brushing are not true:

A harder brush will clean my teeth better
Brushing more often will provide more thorough cleaning
If my gums bleed when I brush my teeth, I should not brush until they stop

In truth, a harder toothbrush and too-frequent brushing can cause damage to the surface enamel of the tooth. If the enamel is damaged severely enough, you will require treatment only a cosmetic dentist can provide to correct the look of your teeth.

If your gums bleed, this often means you are beginning to show symptoms of gum disease, which can be reduced or eliminated by more frequent brushing to stimulate the gums. If gum disease continues, it could lead to a need for gum surgery, or could even cause you to lose one or more teeth.

If you have questions about any dental myths, or would like more information about how to care for your teeth properly, please contact general and cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole, with offices in San Diego, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, California.

Who is a Candidate for a Smile Makeover?

2010-05-03T08:50:00.000-07:00

Do you wish your teeth were whiter or straighter? Are you shy about getting your picture taken because you are self conscious about your teeth? If so, you may be a good candidate for a smile makeover. A smile makeover is any set of procedures that work together to help improve the aesthetics of your smile. You will work with Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole to develop a comprehensive treatment plan specifically designed for you.

A smile makeover can help correct:

Broken teeth
Chipped teeth
Crooked teeth
Discolored teeth
Gaps between teeth
Outdated or damaged dental restorations
Uneven or misshapen teeth

There are several ways to improve your smile, based entirely on what you want and can afford. You may find that a single procedure, like porcelain veneers, can completely transform your confidence. However, especially if you have crooked or broken teeth, you may find that you need several procedures to achieve the impact you want. The best way to discover what a smile makeover can do for you is to contact a qualified cosmetic dentist.

If you want to know more about getting your smile made over and you live in the Encinitas, Carlsbad, or San Diego, California area, please contact Encinitas, California Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole to schedule a consultation.

This blog has moved

2010-04-20T07:59:00.001-07:00

This blog is now located at http://drmarywalshcole.blogspot.com/.
You will be automatically redirected in 30 seconds, or you may click here.

For feed subscribers, please update your feed subscriptions to
http://drmarywalshcole.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default.

Who is a Candidate for Porcelain Veneers?

2010-04-03T07:41:00.000-07:00

Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. The procedure corrects unevenness, discoloration, and gaps by covering teeth with a thin porcelain layer. However, porcelain veneers are not for everyone.
The best candidates for porcelain veneers:

Have healthy teeth. Teeth that are unhealthy in any way are usually not good candidates for porcelain veneers.
Do not exhibit signs of bruxism, or teeth grinding. Teeth grinding can cause veneers to wear down much quicker than usual.
Do not have problems with teeth strength. Teeth that are chipped or show signs of other weakness are not good candidates for the procedure.
Have plenty of teeth enamel. Because veneers must bond to teeth enamel, any patient who has lost much of his or her enamel usually does not make a good candidate.
Understand the benefits and limitations of veneers.

Porcelain veneers can do wonders for teeth with gaps, discolored teeth, or unevenness of teeth. However, they cannot fix all dental problems. The best course of action is to consult a qualified cosmetic dentist.

If you live in the Encinitas, Carlsbad, or San Diego, California area and want to know more about porcelain veneers, please contact San Diego cosmetic dentist, Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole for a consultation.

Choosing a Family Dentist

2010-03-10T09:43:00.000-08:00

Choosing the right family dentist is just as important as choosing the right family physician. It's important to know as much about your dentist as possible before making a choice so that you can determine which practitioner is best for your family.

The first step in choosing a family dentist is determining his or her qualifications. One way to determine if a dentist is fully qualified is to find out about memberships in accrediting organizations, like the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Members are required to undergo continuing dental education to continue their membership in both organizations, so it is a good guideline to determine if your dentist is committed enough to his or her profession to remain fully knowledgeable of recent updates in dental technology and procedures.

Secondly, make sure you visit your dentist for a consultation prior to making an appointment for cleanings or other work. Pay attention to the staff. Are they friendly and helpful? Once you meet with the dentist, consider whether or not he or she answered all of your questions thoroughly. Also consider the rapport you develop with the dentist. Is this someone you can work with regularly? Do you find his or her demeanor to be welcoming and helpful?

If you answer yes to any of the above questions, it is likely you have found your permanent family dentist.

If you want to know about family dentistry in the Encinitas, Carlsbad, or San Diego, California area, please contact Encinitas, California cosmetic dentist, Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole for a consultation.

Choosing a Porcelain Veneers Dentist

2010-02-12T13:57:00.000-08:00

Porcelain veneers are covers that are used to brighten smiles, and to help teeth appear straighter and better aligned. The first step in the process of getting veneers is choosing the right porcelain veneers dentist.

The first step in choosing a porcelain veneers dentist is to consider board certification. Dentists certified by the Academy of General Dentistry or the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry must go through a peer review process and yearly training in order to maintain their certification.

The second step is considering a dentist's experience with porcelain veneers. An experienced dentist knows how to create veneers that seamlessly complement a patient's overall appearance and blend nicely with surrounding teeth.

Finally, it is important to make sure that you have a good rapport with your porcelain veneers dentist. Many of Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole's patients report being more satisfied with their experience because they have a good relationship with their dentist. Dr. Walsh-Cole is happy to schedule an appointment to answer all of your questions about porcelain veneers and to explain her extensive experience with the procedure.

If you are interested in porcelain veneers and you live in the Encinitas, Carlsbad, or San Diego, California area, please contact San Diego cosmetic dentist, Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole to schedule a consultation.

Help Us Do Our Best

2010-01-14T12:01:00.000-08:00

Patients are increasingly finding service providers based on online customer reviews. Reviews are a popular way for patients to share their experiences with doctors, staff and services. There are websites dedicated to online opinions and we great appreciate you sharing your experiences at our office!

Here are a list of websites that make it extremely easy for you to give honest feedback about your experience with Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole. We value your opinion. It gives us yet another reason to provide you with outstanding service. Please take a minute to share your thoughts and experiences with Dr. Walsh-Cole and our team on one or more of these websites:

Google.com - Google has a rating system that allows you to assign up to five stars for excellent service. In addition, you can write a short review on your experience. Visit our profile to rate our office.
Yelp.com - Yelp.com is another site that uses the five star rating system. Go directly to our profile to share your opinion.
Citysearch.com - From our profile page, click on "Write a Review" in the upper right corner. Share your opinion and experience.

We hope you've had a very positive experience with Dr. Walsh-Cole and We hope to see you again soon!

Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist

2010-01-11T13:31:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, many dental schools don't offer courses in cosmetic dentistry that go beyond the simplest introduction to basic procedures. Because many dental schools lack specific tracks in cosmetic dentistry and don't require that students take cosmetic dentistry courses, it is difficult to know what to look for in a dentist when considering cosmetic dentistry procedures like teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and onlays.

The most important point to remember when choosing a cosmetic dentist is dedication to continuing education. Like most medical professionals, dentists need to continue their education beyond dental school in order to remain fully apprised of current procedures and methods.

One way you can be sure that your cosmetic dentist has a dedication to continuing education is to look for membership in important professional organizations, like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Academy of General Dentistry. Organizations like this focus on offering their members intensive continuing education courses. Look for a cosmetic dentist that is a member of these organizations, or better yet, a fellowship member. Fellowship members are required to pass a series of courses that guarantee expertise in specific dental practice areas.

If you live in the Encinitas, Carlsbad, or San Diego, California area and want more information on cosmetic dentistry, please contact Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole for a consultation.

Questions about Smile Makeovers

2009-12-23T12:24:00.000-08:00

The process of providing someone with a smile makeover is a cosmetic dentistry solution gaining popularity because of its unique ability to fix multiple problems with fewer visits to the dentist's office. A cosmetic dentistry consultation with Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole can give you a good idea of what a smile makeover entails.

What issues can a smile makeover address?

Smile makeovers can address a number of issues, including:

Gaps between the teeth
Crooked teeth
A "gummy" smile
Discoloration
Chipped or misshapen teeth

Depending on your particular needs, Dr. Walsh-Cole will recommend an individualized group of procedures to perfect your smile.

Isn't it better to take care of one problem at a time?

You can certainly do one procedure at a time, but having a comprehensive smile makeover will save you time and even save you money, and will give you the perfect smile you've always wanted all at once, rather than gradually improving your look piecemeal.

What if I have other problems that aren't just cosmetic?

Dr. Walsh-Cole will evaluate your teeth based on more than just their appearance. She is qualified to perform not only cosmetic dentistry but general and neuromuscular dentistry, also. If you have serious problems with your teeth, gums, or jaw alignment, for example, she will recommend additional procedures to correct these issues. A smile rehabilitation might be in order, which is similar to a smile makeover but addresses problems that aren't just cosmetic.

Get answers to your other questions about smile makeovers.

The smile makeover provides dramatic results. If you would like to find out what a full smile makeover can do for you, please contact Mary Walsh-Cole, DMD, San Diego, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, California area cosmetic dentist, to schedule an initial smile makeover consultation.

Questions about Porcelain Crowns

2009-11-10T13:04:00.000-08:00

Porcelain crowns provide a natural-looking, durable alternative to traditional metal crowns. Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole can help you make a decision about using porcelain crowns during your cosmetic dentistry consultation.

What are the advantages of porcelain crowns?

The major advantage of porcelain crowns is appearance. Today’s porcelain crowns can be exactly color-matched to your teeth, and porcelain is semi-translucent, mimicking the reflective properties of your natural teeth. Another advantage is that, unlike metal, porcelain is non-conductive, which makes it less sensitive to hot and cold.

How are porcelain crowns applied?

The procedure for placing a porcelain crown is the same as that for applying a metal crown. Any existing decay is removed from the tooth, and the tooth is reshaped to accommodate the crown. Usually this involves grinding the tooth down to a “peg.” A temporary crown is then affixed while the final crown is made. When the final crown is finished, the temporary is removed and the final crown is permanently affixed.

How long do porcelain crowns last?

If you take good care of your teeth, a porcelain crown should have a long lifespan comparable to that of a metal crown. With many dental practices choosing to use less metal, or no metals at all, and more people becoming aware of the advantages of natural-looking porcelain, the porcelain crown is becoming a popular option.

For more information about porcelain crowns and cosmetic dentistry, please contact Mary Walsh-Cole, DMD, San Diego, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, San Diego, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, California cosmetic dentist.

Questions about Neuromuscular Dentistry

2009-10-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

Neuromuscular dentistry is a specialized form of dentistry that requires experience and training. With her extended educational background addressing both cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry, Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole is uniquely qualified to address neuromuscular dentistry issues and can help determine a course of treatment for you in a personal consultation.

What is Neuromuscular Dentistry?

While general dentistry addresses the health and soundness of the teeth and gums, neuromuscular dentistry considers all the interdependent parts of the jaw and face, including nerve tissue, bone, and musculature. Misalignment in the teeth can cause distress to nerves that are forced out of their proper position, or excessive strain on the muscles of the jaw and face. Any one of these issues, or a combination of more than one, can lead to extreme discomfort and chronic pain in the jaw, neck, shoulders, head, or ears.

What is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)?

TMD, often referred to as TMJ, though TMJ is actually the acronym for the joint, itself, is a common problem that can cause severe discomfort through a wide array of symptoms. It is estimated that millions of Americans suffer from TMD, and many of them do not even realize it. The symptoms of TMD can vary greatly, making it difficult to diagnose, but once your symptoms are traced to TMD, treatment can provide dramatic improvement.

TMD is caused by a misalignment of the jaw joint, leading to misalignment of the teeth, which can affect facial nerves, neck muscles, and can even cause severe headaches. Treatment of TMD involves finding the proper alignment of the jaw joint and performing procedures such as correcting the bite or straightening crooked teeth to ensure the joint remains in correct alignment.

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms and suspect TMD might be the culprit, please contact Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole for a neuromuscular dentistry consultation. Dr. Cole practices in the Encinitas, San Diego, Del Mar, Carlsbad and Rancho Santa Fe, California area and would be happy to help you determine if neuromuscular dentistry treatment is right for you.

Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry

2009-09-28T13:33:00.000-07:00

When you are considering cosmetic dentistry, it is important to find a dentist you can trust, feel comfortable with and has years of experience. If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, San Diego cosmetic dentist, Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole, can help answer your questions and decide what procedures will be best for you during a consultation.

What is the difference between cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry?

General dentistry addresses the everyday concerns of dental hygiene and the care and health of your teeth and gums. General dentistry procedures generally include regular cleanings, fluoride treatment, diagnosis and monitoring of gum disease, and repairing decay and other issues with the teeth. Oral cancer screenings are an important part of a general dentistry check up.

Cosmetic dentistry, on the other hand, focuses on the aesthetics of the teeth, gums and mouth as a whole. While some cosmetic dentistry issues can affect the health of the mouth and teeth, most procedures, such as porcelain veneers and tooth whitening, are primarily concerned with aesthetics.

Will my insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?

This depends entirely upon what procedures you have done and the policies of your specific insurance carrier. Most cosmetic dentistry procedures are not covered by insurance, but some procedures might be partially or entirely covered depending on the condition being addressed and the specific coverage you are paying for. It's always best to ask your insurance provider for detailed information before making any assumptions about coverage.

Does cosmetic dentistry last a long time?

If you take careful care of your teeth, most cosmetic dentistry procedures will keep your smile looking its best for many years. Teeth whitening procedures can require repeat treatments, especially if you habitually consume foods or beverages that stain your teeth, or if you are a smoker. Porcelain veneers can last ten to fifteen years if cared for properly, and cosmetic options like dental implants can last even longer.

If you have questions about cosmetic dentistry, and are looking for a qualified, experienced cosmetic dentist in the San Diego, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, California area, please contact Mary Walsh-Cole, DMD for more information.

2009-01-02T14:31:00.001-08:00

Welcome to our blog