Smile Makeovers: Transforming Your Smile and Boosting Confidence

Your smile is a powerful tool. It’s the first thing people notice about you, and it speaks volumes without saying a word. A confident, radiant smile can leave a lasting impression, but for many, achieving that perfect smile may require a little extra help. At Lans Family Dentistry, we understand the impact a smile can have on your confidence and overall well-being. That’s why we’re excited to share insights into the world of smile makeovers – a transformative journey toward a brighter, more confident you.

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What is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is a customized treatment plan designed to address specific dental concerns and enhance the overall appearance of your smile. It may include a combination of cosmetic and restorative dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, dental crowns, orthodontics, and more. The goal is to create a harmonious, natural-looking smile that complements your facial features and personality.

The Lans Family Dentistry Difference:

When it comes to smile makeovers, choosing the right dental provider is crucial. Lans Family Dentistry stands out for its commitment to patient-centered care and comprehensive dental expertise. Our team of skilled professionals takes the time to understand your unique needs, concerns, and aesthetic goals. We leverage advanced dental technologies and modern techniques to deliver high-quality results with minimal discomfort.

The Smile Makeover Process:
–       Consultation: Schedule a consultation with our experienced dentists to discuss your goals and concerns.
–       Comprehensive Evaluation: Our team will conduct a thorough examination, including digital imaging and impressions, to assess your oral health and develop a personalized treatment plan.
–       Treatment Phases: Depending on your unique needs, your smile makeover may involve a combination of cosmetic and restorative procedures. These may include teeth whitening,  veneers, dental implants, or orthodontic treatments.
–       Follow-Up and Maintenance: We’re committed to the long-term success of your smile makeover. Regular check-ups and maintenance appointments will ensure your smile stays healthy and vibrant for years to come.

The Transformative Power of a Confident Smile:

A smile makeover at Lans Family Dentistry is not just about enhancing your teeth; it’s about boosting your confidence and improving your overall quality of life. Our patients often express not only a renewed sense of self-assurance but also improved oral health habits and a commitment to maintaining their stunning smiles.

If you’ve been dreaming of a brighter, more confident smile, Lans Family Dentistry is here to turn that dream into reality. Our commitment to excellence, personalized care, and advanced dental techniques makes us your trusted partner in achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. Say goodbye to dental insecurities and hello to a radiant, confident you with Lans Family Dentistry’s transformative smile makeovers.

Schedule your consultation today and embark on a journey to a more confident, beautiful smile with Lans Family Dentistry. Because your smile is our priority.


Signs of Healthy Gums vs. Gum Disease: Your Guide to Good Oral Health

Your gums play a crucial role in your oral health. Healthy gums provide support for your teeth and protect the underlying bone. Yet, many people don’t pay as much attention to their gum health as they do to their teeth. In this blog post, we’ll explore the signs of healthy gums versus gum disease and the importance of maintaining good gum health with Lans Family Dentistry.

Signs of Healthy Gums

·      Pink Color: Healthy gums are typically pink in color, with some variations based on your natural pigmentation. They should not appear red, purple, or white.
·      Consistent Texture: Healthy gums have a firm, consistent texture. They should not be swollen, puffy, or feel spongy to the touch.
·      No Bleeding: Healthy gums should not bleed during regular activities like brushing, flossing, or eating. If you notice blood while performing these tasks, it may indicate gum disease.
·      Tight Gumline: Healthy gums should snugly fit around your teeth, creating a tight gumline. Gaps or pockets between your gums and teeth can be a sign of gum disease.
·      No Pain or Sensitivity: Healthy gums should not cause pain, sensitivity, or discomfort. If you experience these sensations, it’s essential to consult with a dentist.
·      Consistent Gum Size: Your gum tissue should maintain a consistent size around each tooth. If you notice gum recession (gums pulling away from teeth), it could be a sign of gum disease.

Signs of Gum Disease (Gingivitis or Periodontitis)healthy_gums_versus_gum_disease

·      Red or Inflamed Gums: Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can cause redness and inflammation in the gums.
·      Bleeding Gums: One of the most common signs of gum disease is bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing.
·      Receding Gums: As gum disease progresses to periodontitis, the gums may pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that can harbor bacteria.
·      Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a sign of gum disease due to the presence of bacteria in the mouth.
·      Loose Teeth: Advanced gum disease can lead to loosen teeth as the supporting bone deteriorates.
·      Pain and Discomfort: Gum disease can cause pain, sensitivity, and discomfort, particularly when chewing or consuming hot or cold foods.

The Importance of Good Gum Health

Maintaining healthy gums is vital for your overall oral health. Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss, damage to the supporting bone structure, and even contribute to systemic health issues. Preventive measures such as regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene practices, and a balanced diet can help maintain healthy gums.

Your gums are a fundamental component of your oral health, and recognizing the signs of healthy gums versus gum disease is essential. Lans Family Dentistry is committed to helping you maintain optimal gum health and overall well-being. Contact Lans Family Dentistry for regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings to ensure oral health!


Understanding Oral Health and Overall Well-Being

When it comes to understanding your overall health and well-being, it’s easy to focus on diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors. However, one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is oral health. Your mouth is not just a separate entity within your body; it’s intricately connected to your overall well-being. In this blog post, Lans Family Dentistry will help you understand the profound link between understanding oral health and your general health.

The Mouth-Body Connection: Oral Health and Systemic Health

The mouth is a gateway to the body, and what happens in your oral cavity can impact your overall health. Several significant connections between oral health and systemic health should not be ignored.

Immune System: The mouth can serve as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. When oral health is compromised, the immune system may become weakened, making it harder for the body to fend off infections.understanding_oral_health

Heart Health: Emerging research suggests a link between gum disease (periodontitis) and heart disease. The inflammation and infection associated with gum disease may increase the risk of heart-related issues. Proper oral care can contribute to a healthier heart.

Digestive Health: The digestive process begins in the mouth. Poor oral health, such as missing teeth or gum disease, can hinder proper chewing and digestion, affecting overall nutrition.

Prioritizing Oral Health: Practical Tips for Overall Well-being

Now that we’ve explored the link between oral health and general health, it’s clear that maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall well-being.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule routine dental check-ups and cleanings with your dentist. These visits can catch dental issues early and prevent them from affecting your systemic health.

Proper Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth.

Healthy Diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and low in sugar. This not only benefits your oral health but also your overall well-being.

Manage Stress: High stress levels can contribute to oral health issues like teeth grinding. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria in your mouth, promoting oral health.

Address Dental Issues Promptly: If you experience dental pain or notice changes in your oral health, don’t delay seeking our professional help.

Your oral health is a crucial part of your overall well-being, and it deserves the attention and care it needs to keep you healthy and smiling. At Lans Family Dentistry, we understand the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being. Our dedicated team is here to support your oral health journey and help you achieve a healthier and happier life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and prioritize your dental hygiene for a brighter future!


Common Dental Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction

Oral health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and there’s no shortage of advice and information circulating about dental care. However, not all the information we come across is accurate. Dental myths can lead to confusion and may even impact our dental habits negatively.

1: Brushing Harder Cleans Teeth Better

Brushing your teeth harder does not necessarily equate to better cleaning. In fact, aggressive brushing can lead to enamel erosion, gum recession, and tooth sensitivity. The right technique is more important than brute force. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions to clean all tooth surfaces thoroughly. Additionally, make sure to brush for at least two minutes twice a day and replace your toothbrush every three to four months. 

2: Sugar Is the Only Cause of Tooth Decay

While excessive sugar consumption can contribute to tooth decay, it’s not the sole culprit. Starchy foods like potato chips and crackers also break down into sugars that feed bacteria in the mouth. The real issue is the accumulation of plaque on teeth, which occurs when bacteria consume sugars and produce acids. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are essential to prevent tooth decay, regardless of your sugar intake.

3: You Don’t Need to See the Dentist if Your Teeth Look Fine

Even if your teeth appear healthy, regular dental checkups are crucial. Dental issues like cavities and gum disease may not show noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Dentists can detect potential problems early on and provide preventive care to avoid more significant issues in the future. Professional dental cleanings also remove plaque and tartar buildup, ensuring your oral health remains in top shape.

4: Teeth Whitening Ruins Tooth Enamel

When done correctly, teeth whitening procedures are safe and do not damage tooth enamel. Teeth whitening products approved by dental professionals contain active ingredients that break down stains without harming enamel. Over-the-counter products should be used as directed, and it’s advisable to consult your dentist before any whitening procedure to ensure it’s suitable for your dental health.

It’s essential to differentiate between dental myths and facts to maintain optimal oral health. Remember, accurate information and good oral care practices are the foundation for a radiant and confident smile that lasts a lifetime. If you have any questions regarding your oral health, Lans Family Dentistry is ready to answer your questions and help you out.


The Art of Smile Transformation: Unveiling the Magic of Veneers

A radiant smile is a powerful asset, capable of transforming not only our appearance but also our confidence and self-esteem. When it comes to achieving that perfect smile, modern dentistry has made incredible advancements, one of which is veneers. At Lans Family Dentistry, we understand the impact a beautiful smile can have on your life, and that’s why we’re excited to offer veneers as a solution for our patients. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of veneers, uncovering the magic behind this popular cosmetic dental procedure.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells typically made from porcelain or composite resin. They are designed to cover the front surface of teeth, providing a natural-looking, flawless appearance. Veneers are an ideal solution for individuals who have dental imperfections, such as chipped, stained, misaligned, or worn-down teeth. With their ability to create stunning smile transformations, veneers have become a go-to treatment for those seeking a picture-perfect smile.

The Veneer Process

At Lans Family Dentistry, we take a personalized approach to veneer treatments. During your initial consultation, our skilled dentists will evaluate your oral health and discuss your aesthetic goals. This consultation is crucial, as it allows us to determine if veneers are the right solution for you.

If veneers are recommended, the next step is the preparation of your teeth. A small amount of enamel is gently removed from the front surface of the teeth to make room for the veneers. This ensures a proper fit and natural-looking result. Impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where your veneers will be custom-crafted to match your desired specifications.

Once your veneers are ready, you will return to our office for the bonding process. The dentist will carefully place the veneers on your teeth, making any necessary adjustments for fit and color. Using a specialized bonding material, the veneers are securely attached to the teeth. Finally, the veneers are polished, creating a seamless integration with your natural teeth.

Benefits of Veneers

Enhanced Aesthetics: Veneers offer a remarkable improvement in the appearance of your smile. They can correct various dental flaws, including discoloration, gaps, misalignment, and chips, giving you a smile you can proudly show off.

Natural Appearance: Veneers are meticulously crafted to match the shape, color, and texture of your natural teeth. They are indistinguishable from your real teeth, resulting in a naturally beautiful smile.

Durability: With proper care, veneers can last for many years, making them a long-term investment in your smile.

Stain-Resistance: Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to stains, helping you maintain a bright and white smile even when exposed to coffee, tea, or other staining substances.

Minimally Invasive: Compared to other dental procedures, veneers are a conservative treatment option. They require minimal alteration of your natural teeth while providing a significant transformation.

Cosmetic Dentistry Veneers have revolutionized the field of cosmetic dentistry, allowing individuals to achieve the smile of their dreams. At Lans Family Dentistry, we combine our expertise with the artistry of veneers to create stunning smile makeovers for our patients. If you’re looking to enhance your smile and boost your self-confidence, veneers could be the perfect solution for you. Schedule an appointment with our experienced team, and let us help you uncover the magic of cosmetic dentistry veneers for a radiant smile that will leave a lasting impression.


5 Effective Ways to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Oral health is crucial to our overall well-being, and when it comes to maintaining a healthy mouth, our gums play a significant role. Healthy gums provide a strong foundation for our teeth, preventing issues like gum disease and tooth loss. Thankfully, there are several simple yet effective ways to keep your gums healthy. In this blog post, we will explore five essential practices that can help you maintain optimal gum health.

Brush and Floss Regularly

Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is the cornerstone of gum health. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque and bacteria from both your teeth and gums. Additionally, flossing daily allows you to clean the areas between your teeth that your toothbrush cannot reach, reducing the risk of gum disease.

Use an Antimicrobial Mouthwash

Incorporating an antimicrobial mouthwash into your oral care routine can provide an extra layer of protection for your gums. An antimicrobial mouthwash helps to reduce bacteria in your mouth, minimizing the risk of gum infections. Look for a mouthwash that contains ingredients like chlorhexidine or essential oils such as tea tree oil for their proven antimicrobial properties.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

A healthy diet is not only essential for your overall health but also for your gum health. Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products in your meals. These nutrient-rich foods help strengthen your immune system and provide vitamins and minerals necessary for gum tissue health. Avoid excessive sugar consumption, as it can contribute to the development of gum disease.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dry mouth, which increases the risk of gum disease. Saliva plays a vital role in maintaining oral health by washing away food particles and neutralizing acids produced by bacteria. Drink alcohol in moderation and ensure you stay well-hydrated to support healthy saliva production and prevent dry mouth.

Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular visits to your dentist are crucial for maintaining healthy gums. Dental professionals can identify early signs of gum disease or other oral health issues that may go unnoticed. They can also provide professional cleanings to remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of gum inflammation and infection. Aim to visit your dentist at least twice a year, or as recommended by your oral healthcare provider.

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, and taking care of them should be a priority. By following these five simple yet effective practices, you can significantly improve and maintain your gum health. If it’s been over 6 months since your last cleaning, schedule your appointment with Lans Family Dentistry.


Unlock Your Brightest Smile with Teeth Whitening

A captivating smile is a powerful tool that can boost your self-confidence, enhance your appearance, and leave a lasting impression on others. However, over time, our teeth can become stained and lose their natural brightness due to various factors such as age, lifestyle choices, and certain food and drinks. Fortunately, there’s a solution that can help you restore your pearly whites and regain your dazzling smile: Zoom! teeth whitening. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of teeth whitening and why Lans Family Dentistry is your go-to destination for achieving a radiant, confident smile.

The Importance of a Bright Smile

Our smiles play a significant role in our personal and professional lives. They serve as a window to our personality, reflecting our confidence and overall well-being. A bright smile can enhance your appearance, make you appear more approachable, and even contribute to improved social interactions. By addressing teeth discoloration, teeth whitening allows you to unlock the full potential of your smile and enjoy its wide-ranging benefits.

Professional Teeth Whitening vs. At-Home Remedies

While there are numerous over-the-counter teeth whitening products available, they often provide limited results and may not be suitable for everyone. Zoom! teeth whitening, on the other hand, offers a safe and effective solution tailored to your unique needs. At Lans Family Dentistry, our skilled dental professionals utilize advanced techniques and high-quality whitening agents to ensure optimal results, all while prioritizing the health and integrity of your teeth.

Customized Treatment Plans

One of the key advantages of choosing Zoom! teeth whitening is the personalized approach we offer. We understand that each patient’s dental needs and expectations are different. During your initial consultation, our dental experts will assess your dental health, discuss your desired level of whitening, and create a customized treatment plan that suits your specific requirements. This ensures that you achieve the desired shade of brightness while maintaining the health and integrity of your teeth.

Safe and Comfortable Procedures

When it comes to teeth whitening, safety should always be a priority. We prioritize your comfort and well-being throughout the whitening process. Our dental professionals are highly experienced and employ advanced techniques that minimize sensitivity and protect your gums and other soft tissues in your mouth. With our team, you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands and will achieve remarkable results without any discomfort or risk.

Long-lasting Results

Teeth whitening offers long-lasting results that surpass the temporary effects of at-home remedies. Our high-quality whitening agents penetrate deep into the enamel, breaking down stubborn stains and discoloration. This leads to a radiant smile that can last for months, or even years, with proper oral hygiene and maintenance. Additionally, our dental experts can provide guidance on post-whitening care to help you extend the longevity of your newly brightened smile. A bright, confident smile can transform your overall appearance and leave a lasting impression on those around you. With Zoom! teeth whitening, you can achieve remarkable results in a safe, comfortable, and personalized manner. Contact Lans Family Dentistry and discover the transformative power of professional teeth whitening.


What Are Spark Aligners & How to Know if They Are Right for You

Having straight teeth is something many people desire, but having traditional wire braces can be inconvenient or undesirable. Spark Aligners offer a solution with various sets of clear aligners that move and straighten your teeth gradually. You wear each aligner for a set amount of time to slowly move your teeth into the desired position. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be supplied with a different set of aligners and a schedule for how long each set should be in use.

Why Choose Spark Aligners?

Spark Aligners is the market leader in comfort, look and cost. The aligners are made of medical-grade polyurethane resin, making them more comfortable in comparison to others that are made of plastic materials. Additionally, these aligners are less visible compared to other aligners due to the patented TruGen™ material. TruGen™ is also more stain-resistant, allowing you to continue to enjoy food and drinks without worrying about staining your aligners.

What Makes These Aligners Stand Out?

The component that sets Spark apart from other options available is the cost. Most dental treatments such as teeth straightening aligners can be incredibly expensive, but this type offers a cost-effective option. Spark works to make their clear aligners more affordable for their orthodontists and clinicians, which, in turn, makes it more affordable for the patients, too.

How to Know if Spark is Right for You

Whether your teeth need to be clinically straightened or you struggle with the appearance of your teeth, Spark Aligners are a great option for you to consider. Spark Aligners clear aligners work through a customized treatment plan with sets of individual retainer trays that are changed out as your teeth move. A big benefit to using Spark Aligners is that everything is tailored exactly to your needs. Your orthodontist works closely with you to keep your teeth movement on track so that you get the results you want. The TruGen™ material used to create these clear aligners also allows for faster tooth movement due to the increased force retention and better surface area contact with each of your teeth.

How They Can Straighten Your Smile

The largest component to consider when looking into dental treatment using Spark Aligners is the issue you’re treating. The use of clear aligners is most helpful for those treating an anterior open bite (when the front teeth do not touch) or those dealing with a periodontal issue (sensitive gums). For anterior open bites, these aligners work with increased force retention to pull the teeth together over the course of the treatment. For those dealing with periodontal issues with their gums being sensitive to dental treatments, Spark Aligners are a great option because they are more comfortable on the gums than other brands.

Here at Lans Family Dentistry, we offer Spark Aligners and all the patient care that goes into using them. They are a great choice for many patients who are looking to straighten their smile. If you are considering getting started, contact us today!


Braces and What to Know

Whether you think your smile could be straighter or your child’s bite needs alignment, you’ve likely found yourself thinking about braces and what you may need to know about them.

Types of Braces

There are two common kinds of braces that we use for the correction of misaligned teeth. Both have come a long way as technology has massively improved.

Metal

Metal braces are made out of high-grade stainless steel, which has become much smaller and more comfortable than in the past. They’ve also come a long way in terms of attractiveness.

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Self-Ligating

Self-ligating braces have small slide brackets that clip the wires in place. These systems use lighter wires, and the lower friction brackets keep everything moving continuously. This active ability for the brackets to slide along the wire as the teeth move allows for a much shorter treatment time and less time waiting for results.

What to Expect On Your Application Day

As you approach the day of installation, you should know that some discomfort accompanies putting on your braces for the first time and readjusting them later. While unavoidable, there are a few things that you can do to improve your first few weeks with braces.

We’ll send you home with some wax to help put a little cushion between your braces and your lips as you adjust to the new presence in your mouth. While it may seem silly, a little bit of wax really goes a long way. That pressure on your lips is also going to change how they sit a little bit, resulting in a slightly different look and a little bit of a lisp as you get used to the new hardware. However, this will pass quickly, and your patience will be rewarded.

Over the first few months, you will rapidly see straightening and improvements in your bite that will likely surprise you. To make the most of it, you will need to keep up your flossing and cleaning since braces are a little more difficult to clean around.

Keeping Your Braces Tuned Up

After your initial appointment, you will need to come back every 4 to 6 weeks for new elastic ties and adjustment if you have metal braces, and slightly less with self-ligating braces though each patient is a little different. Each time we adjust them, there will be a little discomfort, and your teeth will straighten more and more as we get closer to your goal of a beautiful and stable smile.

The average treatment plan is between twelve to thirty-six months for braces. However, treatment times can be longer in extreme cases or shorter for easier cases. Generally, after about two to three years, you should be on your way with a perfect, bright smile.

If you or someone in your family is considering getting braces, contact Lans Family Dentistry today to evaluate what type and treatment plan is right for your teeth so that we can start building a smile for you to live in.


The Importance of Dental Flossing

Dental flossing is an important part of oral hygiene that’s often overlooked, but it provides numerous benefits for your overall health and well-being. By removing plaque and food particles from areas that a toothbrush can’t reach, flossing helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy and reduces the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems.

One of the primary benefits of dental flossing is the prevention of gum disease. Gum disease is a common problem that occurs when plaque builds up along the gum line and irritates the gums. This can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and eventually, tooth loss. By removing plaque and food particles from the hard-to-reach areas between your teeth, dental flossing helps to keep your gums healthy and reduces the risk of gum disease.

dental_flossingDental flossing also helps to prevent cavities and tooth decay. Plaque contains bacteria that produce acid that can attack your teeth, causing cavities and tooth decay. By removing plaque and food particles with dental floss, you can reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth, which can help to prevent cavities and tooth decay.

In addition to improving oral health, flossing can also improve your overall health. Research has shown that gum disease and other oral health problems can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions. By maintaining good oral hygiene with regular flossing, you can reduce your risk of these health problems and maintain good overall health.

Dental flossing is also an effective way to freshen your breath. When food particles and plaque remain in your mouth, they can cause bad breath. By removing these particles with dental floss, you can help to keep your breath fresh and eliminate the source of bad breath.

Finally, dental flossing is a simple and easy way to improve your oral health. It only takes a few minutes each day to floss, and the benefits are well worth the effort. By making dental flossing a regular part of your oral hygiene routine, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent a range of oral health problems.

Flossing is a critical component of oral hygiene that provides numerous benefits for your overall health and well-being. By removing plaque and food particles from areas that a toothbrush can’t reach, dental flossing helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy, reduce the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems, improve your overall health, freshen your breath, and is a simple and easy way to improve your oral health. So, make dental flossing a part of your daily routine and enjoy the many benefits of a healthy smile!