Marco Island Dentist Dr. Jonathan Van Dyke Answers Your Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry
In recent years, cosmetic dentistry has emerged as an essential and distinct component of many dental practices in America. This holds true in Marco Island, Florida, where Dr. Jonathan Van Dyke says the number of people requesting cosmetic dental procedures has increased since he took over Island Tower Dentistry in 2019. Traditional dentistry remains a mainstay of the office, but cosmetic dentistry now plays a prominent role.
Dr. Van Dyke’s education and training have provided him with the skills and expertise to successfully deliver traditional and cosmetic dental services. With a bachelor’s degree in cell biology, and a master’s degree in biomedical sciences, Dr. Van Dyke graduated at the top of his class from the LECOM School of Dental Medicine in Bradenton, Florida. He received advanced training in endodontics and implant dentistry from world-renowned experts and other training covering orthodontics, oral surgery, and the application of teeth aligners, such as Invisalign®.
With the rising popularity of cosmetic dentistry, Island Tower Dentistry has been receiving a lot of questions about what the practice entails. To better educate Marco Island-area residents about how cosmetic dentistry can improve one’s smile, we thought we’d share Dr. Van Dyke answers to the most frequently asked questions. Read on to hear his expertise in cosmetic dentistry and how it can help give you a healthy smile.
What Procedures are Considered Cosmetic Dentistry?
- Crowns
- Veneers
- Whitening
- Dentures
- Implant-supported dentures
- Gum contouring
- Anything else that aesthetically enhances the smile.
What Are the Top Reasons Someone Sees You for Cosmetic Dentistry?
“Great question! One of the most common reasons people come to me for cosmetic dentistry is correct an occlusal issue, which means a misaligned bite. We typically correct this with full-arch implants, partial arch crowns, or veneers.
“This, of course, leads to a second question: ‘why use those rather than orthodontics to correct a misaligned bit?’
“The answer is that orthodontics will take two to three years to fix the alignment on average but will not correct any discoloration. Additionally, orthodontics cannot change the actual shape of teeth, which may also play a role in the look of the bite.
“Crowns, veneers, and implants can solve several issues, both functional and aesthetic. When used to get teeth back into correct alignment, it gives patients better canine guidance, which helps resolve temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems and prevents further damage to the dentition. They also give patients straight, beautiful, white teeth. You might get straight teeth with orthodontics, but they could still look ugly.”
Can Cosmetic Dentistry Improve One’s Overall Health?
“Absolutely, and I’ve referenced at least two ways in the previous question. Any improvements to dentition—that is, the alignment and cut of your teeth—can improve overall health. We’ve helped many patients who’ve suffered for years with broken down teeth due to occlusal issues. When we correct the problems with implants, crowns, and veneers, they suffer fewer broken teeth, fewer headaches, and reduced jaw pain.
“Such cosmetic fixes also help improve the ability to chew food and eat well, which is important for your health. And that new smile can give you self-confidence and a reason to smile, which has been proven to lower anxiety levels, reduce blood pressure, and enhance mental health.”
Is Teeth Bleaching or Whitening Harmful?
“You should never use a whitening product that is abrasive to the enamel because this causes scratches which can collect harmful bacteria and cause more staining. Before trying over-the-counter whitening products, talk to your dentist and consider the in-office or at-home teeth whitening options they recommend.
Will Insurance Cover My Cosmetic Dental Treatments?
“Most insurance policies have maximum amounts they are willing to pay each year for dental procedures. Cosmetic or occlusal repair dentistry must be completed all together, which means that most of the procedures will not be covered before reaching the policy’s maximum amount.”
When is it Time to Turn to a Cosmetic Dentist?
“If your teeth are continually needing repairs or seem to be suffering from severe wear, you should see a cosmetic dentist who is well trained and experienced with addressing occlusal issues. I have received extensive training and have significant experience repairing occlusal issues with implants, crowns, and veneers. You may also want to consult with a cosmetic dentist if your teeth are discolored or misshapen.”
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Worth It?
“Absolutely! Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way and many use it to address so many different issues that we could not treat with it in the past.”
Learn More About Cosmetic Dentistry at Island Tower Dentistry
Dr. Van Dyke offers a full slate of cosmetic dentistry procedures in Marco Island that can boost your health while giving you a great smile. He would be glad to consult with you to answer any other questions you might have, or you can schedule a smile analysis to learn the best options for improving the look and health of your smile. To learn more about our cosmetic dentistry options or address other specific oral health issues, contact Island Tower Dentistry today at 239-394-1004.