Dr. Sasaki’s Dental Blog

November 15, 2009

Correcting Severe Dental Problems in Ypsilanti

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Dental Implants, Porcelain Veneers, Smile Makeover, Teeth Whitening — Tags: , , , , , — @ 12:16 am

Each separate restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedure performed in Ypsilanti Correcting Severe Dental Problems in Fremontcan 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 Ann Arbor 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 Michigan 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 Ypsilanti 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 Ypsilanti. Dr. Gary Sasaki DDS, MS 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 Gary Sasaki DDS, MS to discover the perfect combination of procedures to achieve your ultimate smile. Our phone number is (734) 482-7466.

October 8, 2009

Saving Teeth in Ann Arbor

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns — Tags: , , , — @ 11:16 pm

When a tooth is threatened by severe decay, periodontal disease, or damage from anRoot Canals in Fremont injury, a skilled Ann Arbor dentist or endodontist must make a judgment call concerning the course of treatment. If the pulp of the tooth is infected or inflamed, a root canal is often the only way to save the tooth.

Gary Sasaki DDS, MS: (734) 482-7466

During a root canal procedure (or endodontic treatment) the soft tissue in the root of the tooth is removed. This tissue contains veins, arteries and lymph vessels. Once the roots are cleaned out and widened, they are filled with a special rubber material. The root canal is only the first step in the complete tooth restoration. After the root canal, without a crown, the tooth will become dry and brittle. The final steps are the core build up and crown.

At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS, we fabricate strong, natural-looking crowns that blend perfectly with the surrounding teeth. With proper oral hygiene and regular visits to a Ypsilanti dentist, a tooth with a filled root can often function problem-free for the rest of a patient’s life.

I am Dentist Dr. Gary Sasaki. I have been practicing dentistry since 1971. During that time I have seen hundreds of teeth saved by this effective dental procedure. Root canal therapy at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS in Ypsilanti has a very high success rate.

Because teeth with infected pulp tissue often cause no symptoms, it is important to have regular dental examinations. I can determine which (if any) teeth have infected roots. If the infection in the soft pulp tissue is left untreated, it can progress to a point where the tooth cannot be saved. Is it time for a thorough dental exam? Call our office at (734) 482-7466.

Call Gary Sasaki DDS, MS immediately if one of your teeth is screaming for attention!

September 7, 2009

Creating Memorable Smiles at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Dental Implants, Restorative Dentistry — Tags: , , — @ 10:46 pm

A smile takes but a moment, but the memory of it lasts forever. You can make yourCreating Memorable Smiles at Colin Yoshida DDS smile memorable and beautiful with a smile makeover at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS in Ann Arbor.

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. Ypsilanti cosmetic dentists have specialized training in the latest cosmetic dental procedures and techniques.

Gary Sasaki DDS, MS 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 of  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 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 Michigan 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 Gary Sasaki DDS, MS at (734) 482-7466. We have created memorable smiles for many of your friends and neighbors in the Ypsilanti area.

June 2, 2009

Gummy Smile?

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Restorative Dentistry, Teeth Whitening — Tags: , , — @ 12:33 am

Gummy Smile? Many Ann Arbor cosmetic dentistry patients with a gummy smile undergo crown lengthening surgery to bring proper balance and symmetry to their smile. Gum tissue and, in some cases, bone is removed to expose more of the visible part of a tooth. It is a safe procedure that does not affect healthy tooth structure.

A ‘gummy smile’ is a term used to describe a smile with teeth that appear too short because an unusual amount of bone and soft tissue hide part of the crown. Our Ann Arbor cosmetic dental patients who have opted for crown lengthening love how their new perfect smile looks and feels. Some of our crown lengthening clients also choose teeth whitening for an extra-dazzling smile!

Crown lengthening is not used solely for cosmetic reasons. When a tooth is injured and breaks at the gum line or if a filling or crown comes off a tooth that contains decay, crown lengthening makes additional tooth structure accessible for further restorative work. It is also used to treat some types of periodontal disease .

At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS , we perform cosmetic and restorative crown lengthening for patients in the Ann Arbor area. The surgery can be performed by a general dentist , periodontist or oral surgeon.

If you are interested in crown lengthening or other cosmetic dental procedures and live in the Ann Arbor, area, schedule an exam with Dr. Gary Sasaki by calling 734-482-7466 . We are conveniently located at 1900 Packard Rd. in Ann Arbor. When you come in, we can show you before and after photos of Michigan cosmetic dentistry clients who are enjoying their new smile.

May 22, 2009

Restoring Smiles at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS in Ann Arbor

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Porcelain Veneers — Tags: , , — @ 3:28 pm

Restoring Smiles at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS in Ann Arbor A great smile is essential for putting your best face forward. At Gary Sasaki DDS, MS , we not only restore teeth to their original condition; we make many Ann Arbor smiles better than they ever were before!

Some patients have only a few problems they wish to correct. Perhaps one or two teeth are misshapen and seem out of alignment. If the problem teeth are only superficially crooked—meaning they do not need to be moved into place with orthodontia—porcelain veneers are the answer. Veneers are wafer-thin porcelain shells that are attached to the front of one of more teeth. They are extremely versatile and can correct shape, color, or both.

Another plus: porcelain veneers are essentially non-invasive and do not affect healthy tooth structure.

Some of our Michigan dental patients were happy with their smile in years past but now want to bring up the whiteness a notch or two. Teeth whitening is a popular procedure for our cosmetic dentistry clients. We provide a variety of teeth whitening options for every type of smile. If you are ready to brighten your smile, come on in; we’ll help you find the best tooth whitening system for your smile.

  • Dr. Gary Sasaki, DDS, MS
  • Gary Sasaki DDS, MS
  • 1900 Packard Rd.
  • Ann Arbor, Michigan 48197
  • 734-482-7466
  • http://www.midentalspa.com

Put your best face forward with a brand new smile!

May 15, 2009

Gary Sasaki DDS, MS on Jaw Bone Deterioration

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Dental Implants, Restorative Dentistry — Tags: , , , — @ 10:59 am

Ann Arbor Jaw Bone Deterioration To remain dense, your jaw bone requires the continual stimulation and pressure of chewing, biting and talking. Each of your teeth has a root structure attached to the surrounding bone material. As each tooth absorbs the forces of everyday mouth function, it stimulates the bone to which the root is attached.

When a tooth is extracted, the jaw bone that previously surrounded the root structure begins to recede. Though tooth extraction is often the only possible treatment for our Ann Arbor patients with tooth damage beyond repair, every effort should be made to preserve the root structure.

Fortunately, tooth implants provide a new root which keeps the surrounding bone healthy and strong. A dental implant consists of a titanium post which is placed in the jaw bone. It replaces the original root and eventually integrates into the surrounding bone. After the implant has been placed and the surrounding bone has healed and meshed with the implant, a post is inserted into the implant. The new artificial tooth, or crown, is then attached to the post. Implant restoration is a safe and effective treatment for tooth loss.

To learn more about dental implants, call Dr. Gary Sasaki at 734-482-7466. The friendly professionals at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS provide world-class dental treatment for patients in Ann Arbor and the surrounding areas.

A Dental Spa to Transform Your Smile, Relax Your Body, and Rejuvenate.

May 11, 2009

Let’s Talk About Your Smile

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Teeth Whitening — Tags: , — @ 5:16 pm

Let’s Talk About Your Smile I’m Dr. Gary Sasaki of Gary Sasaki DDS, MS. My office is located at 1900 Packard Rd. in Ann Arbor, Michigan. One of the best things about being a Ann Arbor 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 Michigan!

If you have been considering a smile makeover, let’s talk about your smile. Call Gary Sasaki DDS, MS at 734-482-7466 to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation.

April 23, 2009

Dental Crowns at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS in Ann Arbor

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Dental Health, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry — Tags: , , , , — @ 1:02 pm

Dental Crowns at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS in Ann Arbor 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. Gary Sasaki at 734-482-7466. Gary Sasaki DDS, MS is located at 1900 Packard Rd. in Ann Arbor. We have been serving clients in the Ann Arbor area since 1971. We can recommend the best tooth restoration or cosmetic dentistry option for you.

April 8, 2009

Cosmetic Dentistry Options

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Dental Health, Dental Implants, General Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, Restorative Dentistry, Teeth Whitening — Tags: , , , , — @ 1:41 am

Cosmetic Dentistry Options Have you thought about upgrading your smile? Cosmetic dentistry offers many exciting possibilities.

The quickest and least invasive procedure is light teeth whitening. The results are dramatic and teeth whitening side effects are minimal.

If your teeth are slightly crooked, but require no orthodontic work, porcelain veneers could be the answer. Porcelain teeth veneers are translucent, wafer-thin covers that are permanently attached to the front of teeth, correcting chips and stains. Prepless veneers do not require the removal of tooth structure.

If your teeth are more than slightly crooked, it’s not too late for braces. Patients of all ages are undergoing orthodontic treatment and achieving fantastic results. The newest braces are less noticeable, more comfortable and bring teeth into alignment much faster than old-school metal braces.

Has gum recession caused the metal base of an old crown to be visible? Soft tissue grafts and crown replacement can correct this problem.

Are you missing one or more teeth? One of the best tooth replacement options is a dental implant. A dental implant consists of a titanium post 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 for the replacement tooth.

Can you envision yourself with a dental makeover?
Call Gary Sasaki DDS, MS at 734-482-7466 to discuss your cosmetic dentistry options.

Dr. Gary Sasaki, DDS, MS
http://www.midentalspa.com

March 31, 2009

Ann Arbor Dental Emergencies

Filed under: Dental Crowns, Dental Emergency, Dental Health, General Dentistry — Tags: , — @ 8:13 am

Ann Arbor Dental Emergencies Many people will experience at least one tooth emergency in their life. You could break a tooth playing a sport, accidentally dislodge a crown, experience sudden pain caused by an abscess or break a wire on your braces. In the case of a dental emergency, see your Ann Arbor dentist as soon as possible!

Following are some immediate treatments:
Broken Tooth: Save any tooth fragments. Rinse mouth with warm water. If the area is bleeding, apply a piece of gauze. A cold compress held on the cheek can reduce swelling and lessen pain. Visit your Ann Arbor dentist as soon as you can.

Lost Filling: Save the filling if you can. It can help your dentist determine why it came out. Do not let food get stuck in the hole left by the filling. Do not chew on the tooth. Brush it gently. Call your Ann Arbor dentist’s office to schedule an emergency appointment right away.

Displaced Crowns: If there is pain, you may apply a dab of clove oil with a Q-tip to the affected tooth (a common home remedy that may reduce pain). Save the crown. If you can’t see your Ann Arbor dentist immediately, you can apply dental cement (available at drugstores) or denture adhesive to temporarily re-attach the crown until you can get to your Ann Arbor dentist. Do not use other types of glue or adhesive.

By visiting your Ann Arbor dentist as soon as possible, you avoid pain, infection and possible further tooth damage. If you delay treatment, even for a few days, you risk needing more extensive treatment later.

For dental emergencies in and around Ann Arbor, call Dr. Gary Sasaki at Gary Sasaki DDS, MS. Our phone number is 734-482-7466.

A Dental Spa to Transform Your Smile, Relax Your Body, and Rejuvenate

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