Dr. Samsavar's Blog

Seattle and Bellevue Dentist


June 12, 2013

Botox: What is it and How is it Administered?

Posted under: Dentistry— Aalam Samsavar @ 9:47 pm

Dr. Samsavar provides many services such as:

  • Invisalign®
  • Dental Implants
  • Porcelain Veneers
  • Tooth-colored Fillings

However cosmetic dentistry is not the only service Dr. Samsavar provides. He also enjoys using botox to help his patients remove signs of aging. If you are considering receiving botox injections you may have questions about what botox is and what to expect during the procedure. Today we will be answering both of these questions.

Botox is actually a poison or a toxin but if it is used correctly and administered by a doctor it is not harmful. The name of the bacterium is called Clostridium botulinum, but there are also other brand names Dysport and Xeomin. Botox is commonly used on the face around the eyes and mouth to remove lines and furrows. However botox does not remove all age marks, and because of this it is necessary to visit your physician before scheduling your appointment.

Botox is administered with a thin small needle. This procedure is done without anesthesia  It is a quick process that is completed in a few minutes. While the procedure is quick and virtually painless there are a few steps to take before the procedure. Abstain from alcohol 1 week before botox is administered. Also do not use aspirin or other inflammatory medicine two weeks previous to the process. If you do not discontinue alcohol use or your use of aspirin and inflammatory medication you may experience bruising.

This blog shares the basic facts of the botox process. If you have any questions about the botox treatment or you would like to make an appointment, please contact us.

Seattle and Bellevue Dentist


May 22, 2013

What You Need to Know When You Need a Cosmetic Dentist

Posted under: Dentistry— Aalam Samsavar @ 11:28 am

According to Forbes, you have seven seconds to make a good first impression, and key to that is your smile. Smiling makes you appear approachable and friendly to others, and shows confidence. But many of us don’t have the confidence to smile due to yellowed, crooked or missing teeth. Fortunately, advances in cosmetic dentistry can now help anyone achieve a bright, friendly and winning smile.

A cosmetic dentist is one whose area of expertise is in the  improvement of the appearance of your teeth through procedures to treat specific problems and defects.

A cosmetic dentist is a general dentist with special training, and therefore, may use special terms. Familiarizing yourself with these terms will help you understand when your cosmetic dentist explains a proposed course of treatment. Here are some dental terms that are important to know:

  • Bonding  Bonding can be done to repair teeth that are chipped, cracked or broken. Today’s bonding materials are usually resin and porcelain which create a natural look.
  • Crown A crown can restore both the function and the appearance of a damaged tooth. The crown is made of durable material such as porcelain and is carefully matched for shape, color and size so that is blends with the natural teeth surrounding it. A crown, unlike fillings or bonding, covers the entire tooth.
  • Implant An implant is designed to be as strong and permanent as a natural tooth. When a tooth is missing or is too damaged to be restored, an implant that consists of a titanium rod may be implanted in the jaw bone. The jaw bone will grow over and around the implant, securing it in place, then a permanent crown can be permanently installed.
  • Veneer  Veneers are generally used for cosmetic reasons, to improve the appearance of the teeth or to protect the surface of the teeth that they cover. Veneers are extremely thin layers of porcelain or another composite material, that are placed over the front of the tooth. A veneer can be applied to just one tooth or many teeth as is needed to achieve the desired aesthetic improvement.
  • Whitening The cosmetic dentist has many options for the whitening of badly discolored or yellowed teeth. Sometimes a bleaching agent will be applied to the teeth, but in cases of very severe discoloration, the dentist may use laser treatments to achieve a satisfactory result.

When you decide to take the steps necessary to improve your smile, it is essential to find the right dentist. Many dentist offices may practice some forms of cosmetic dentristry, but Dr. Samsavar has achieved the distinction of being accredited by the American Society for Dental Aesthetics (ASDA). For more information on how Dr. Samsavar can help you achieve your total smile makeover, contact us.

Seattle and Bellevue Dentist


May 13, 2013

Top 5 Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures and How Much That New Smile Will Cost

Posted under: Dentistry— Aalam Samsavar @ 11:28 am

 

Cosmetic dentistry is nothing new. In fact, dentists have been performing cosmetic procedures on teeth in some form or other since practically the beginning of time. Even back then people realized the importance of oral hygiene and a nice smile. Of course, cosmetic dentistry has come a long way since back then. Just in the past few years many advances have been made in the world of cosmetic dentistry. But how much will getting that new smile thin your wallet?

  • Porcelain Veneers – Dental veneers can make most issues concerning unattractive teeth better. They can help with crooked teeth, worn enamel, wear and tear, and genetics. Porcelain veneers can range in cost from $900 – $2,500 per veneer
  • Dental Implants – A dental implant is a form of cosmetic dentistry used to replace missing teeth for a look and feel that is natural. They are surgically placed below the gums over a series of appointments and can range from $900 – $3,000 per dental implant
  • Invisalign – Invisalign is a clear orthodontic appliance and is offered as an alternative to the metal and brackets of traditional braces. $3,500 – $5,500 for Invisalign
  • Teeth Whitening – as the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatment, teeth whitening offers great results and is one of the most affordable procedures. $500 – $600 for in-office teeth whitening
  • Dental Bonding - is a very affordable cosmetic dentistry procedure and can be used for numerous applications including replacing amalgam fillings and reshaping teeth. The procedure can cost anywhere from $150 – $1,500 for dental bonding.

Most cosmetic procedures are not covered under dental insurance. However, anyone with problem teeth knows the embarrassment and self-consciousness that having bad teeth can bring. Why not do something about it now? Imagine a world where you can smile with confidence. 

For more information or a free consultation please contact us. Check out our online gallery and see what we can do for your smile.

 

Seattle and Bellevue Dentist


May 2, 2013

Let the Professionals Give You White Teeth

Posted under: Dentistry— Aalam Samsavar @ 4:05 pm

Most people want to have nice, white teeth. Not only does whiter teeth make your appearance look better, it also helps your self-esteem and gives you confidence. Food, beverages, nicotine and brushing habits can all lead to a duller smile or stained teeth.

With all of the products on the market, it can be overwhelming and confusing on knowing what works and what doesn’t. With professional teeth whitening, you know you are getting brighter looking teeth done the right way with results that are always positive.

The differences in professional teeth whitening are many. For one thing, it works faster. Six to ten shades of whiter teeth can be achieved in just a little longer than an hour, something you won’t find with over-the-counter products. This is achieved with the Zoom! Teeth Whitening procedure. So instead of multiple tries with an OTC teeth whitening product, you get excellent results the first time.

However, if you would still rather whiten your teeth at home, the professionals are still your best bet. With the Take Home Teeth Whitening, there is one very important feature that is different from what you’ll find in stores – you get a customized whitening tray. The customized whitening tray ensures that the teeth whitener only touches your teeth. This is important so that you don’t get gum sensitivity or irritation from the product. Since this is fitted perfectly for your mouth, you get a whitening product that isn’t just some one size fits all product.

Whether you plan to visit the office to get your teeth whitened or would rather do it in the comfort of your home, simply contact us and we can help you get started on your way to a healthy, whiter smile.

Seattle and Bellevue Dentist


April 28, 2013

Botox

Posted under: Dentistry,General Health— Aalam Samsavar @ 6:40 am

In the past decade there has been a lot of talk about Botox, the benefits and the uses, but not everyone understands what it is or how something like a BOTOX injection works. BOTOX is a simple tool that can be used to help reverse the signs of aging and make you look younger, but before using it, you should definitely understand the procedure and what exactly BOTOX does.

What is BOTOX?

An injection of BOTOX involves using a safe and purified substance from botulinum toxin type A. The substance is extremely diluted to ensure that there is no danger for the patient, and is considered safe to use.  The injections have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to be used for wrinkle-reduction, and are best used to handle issues involving crow’s feet, furrows or deeper lines on the forehead, or any sort of facial wrinkle. With a simple BOTOX injection, you can look years younger and it is relatively painless.

What does BOTOX do?

Once BOTOX has been injected, the muscles will be prevented from contracting in the area of injection. This is not a permanent effect, so no need to worry, but the temporary freezing of the muscles gives the skin a chance to relax, reducing and smoothing out the wrinkles. The results of one injection series in the average lasts about three months, and over time if you don’t receive another injection the wrinkles will start to return as the muscles start to contract again.

BOTOX injections are a safe procedure, and something that can be repeated as needed so you can be looking younger for decades.

If you’re looking for a consultation about whether BOTOX is right for you, or simply want to ask a few more questions, contact Dr. Aalam Samsavar.

Seattle and Bellevue Dentist


tooth colored fillings

Posted under: Dental bonding,Dentistry— Aalam Samsavar @ 6:35 am

We’ve all likely seen tooth colored fillings advertised by local dentists. Is this yet another passing fad based on mere fashion, or is it really based on science, practical, and truly worth all the hype?
To properly evaluate the merits of tooth colored fillings, it helps to cover the basics of the anatomy of our teeth. The outer part of the tooth, interestingly the hardest material produced by animals, is called the enamel. Actually containing no living tissue, it’s made of closely knit calcium crystals.
Dentin is the inner part of the tooth, called dentin, and is closer in makeup to bone. Consisting of collagen and calcium crystal deposits, it’s living and therefore sensitive.
In the past, fillings were made of an amalgam, or mixture, of different types of metals. Although these old metallic fillings did provide a measure of protection, it was only by actually resting on the tooth. There was no true bonding with the tooth. By studying the natural bond between the enamel and the dentin, scientists were able to develop materials which would create a stronger and more protected connection. This also enabled these new tooth colored fillings to provide for more natural, comfortable fillings.
Of course, beyond the fact that tooth colored fillings are of higher quality materials, their main attraction for most people lies in their more natural appearance. Gone are the days of the unappealing gray of metals revealed with every smile. Now the option of having a shining white smile even with fillings is a reality.
The evidence is clear. Tooth colored fillings, with their higher quality and improved, more natural appearance, are here to stay. For more information on how you can benefit from this advancement in science, please contact us.

Seattle and Bellevue Dentist


April 11, 2013

How is a Cosmetic Dentist Different from a General Dentist?

Posted under: Dentistry— Aalam Samsavar @ 10:14 am

You may think all dentists are the same, and in some ways, that’s true. All dentists are concerned with their patients’ oral health. However, a cosmetic dentist not only focuses on the health of your mouth, teeth and gums but is also skilled in restorative procedures that improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile.

At Dr. Samsavar’s, we combine dental art and dental science. We also use the most advanced dental equipment, technological advances and treatment options that leave your smile looking better than before.

Many people think cosmetic dentistry is too expensive to consider, but rest assured these services aren’t just for movie stars and pop idols. You can easily get the million-dollar smile of your dreams. Here are some popular options.

Porcelain veneers

If you want perfectly straight rows of white, shiny teeth, porcelain veneers are a popular and affordable cosmetic dentistry option that will transform your entire mouth. Veneers are a great option because they allow you to address multiple problems at once. For example, if your teeth are crooked, porcelain veneers will help them look straighter. If they’re discolored, porcelain veneers will help them look whiter.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses a series of clear, plastic aligners to imperceptibly modify your smile. Each time you replace the aligner with a new one, your teeth will move a little until they reach the desired positions. The aligners are basically imperceptibe and don’t cause as much discomfort as traditional metal braces.

Dental Implants

If you have gaps in your smile caused by one or more missing teeth, a dental implant can provide a long-term solution that won’t require a conventional denture. The implants look, feel and function just like your natural teeth.

Dr. Samsavar’s dedicated team stands ready to help you make the most of your smile. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.

Seattle and Bellevue Dentist


April 4, 2013

Dental Implants Can Help Those With Tooth Loss and Periodontal Disease

Posted under: Dentistry— Aalam Samsavar @ 3:49 pm

Over the years, smoking cigarettes has been known to cause tooth loss. This is due in part to smoking leading to peridontal disease. However, for women who are postmenopausal and have smoked for years, the tooth loss can be more extreme. Smoking and tooth loss simply work hand in hand but fortunately there is help for those who have suffered with a loss of teeth due to a nicotine habit.

In 2013, an article from the Journal of the American Dental Association and performed by University of Buffalo researchers showed that women who are postmenopausal had a significant loss of teeth as opposed to men who smoke. The study determined that it is a great possibility that smoking can accelerate the onset of periodontal disease and may very well be related to certain cancers. However, in women who are postmenopausal, the numbers of instances of tooth loss are much greater.

While it is imperative to the health for anyone to stop smoking, this study helps prove that for women, the risks can be ever higher.

If you have had tooth loss due to smoking or any other condition, dental implants are an alternative. Dental implants are not only permanent but they are strong and are undetectable. You don’t have to suffer with bone loss, speech problems or shifting teeth and unlike dentures or bridges; dental implants won’t break or become ill-fitting. They are like your real teeth and can restore your confidence and put a smile on your face.

If you’d like to know more about dental implants, simply contact us so we can help you look and feel better than ever.

Seattle and Bellevue Dentist


April 2, 2013

Venetian Porcelain Veneers Will Make Your Smile Natural

Posted under: Dentistry— Aalam Samsavar @ 8:52 pm

Porcelain veneers ensure that you have a bright, white and natural looking smile. They correct any imperfections such as chipped, worn down, or broken teeth and aren’t susceptible to staining because they are made out of porcelain, which isn’t porous. Due to its impervious nature, the teeth that have porcelain veneers remain stain-free and is a perfect alternative to having orthodonic work done.

The Venetian porcelain veneers are different from traditional veneers and are exclusive to our cosmetic dentistry office. While they are still porcelain, they are handcrafted to resemble your own natural teeth. Not only does this look more natural, there is less removal required of your own teeth. They are also crafted in a way that compliments your appearance such as by the size and shape of your face and the shading of your own teeth.

What you get is a smile that looks more like your own and complements your look without being a major difference to your former expression; it’s you, only better. You simply get a white, beautiful smile without having imperfections and stains. The best thing is that if you visit our office you can have a consultation to see what your Venetian porcelain veneers will look like before you commit to them. This allows you to see the results by having a temporary material applied to your teeth. This will give you the confidence in knowing what the end result will be.

If you have any questions about our Venetian porcelain veneers or would like to schedule a consultation, simply contact us and we will be more than happy to help you have the smile you have always wanted.

Seattle and Bellevue Dentist


March 23, 2013

Wisdom Teeth Surgery: The Scar of Being Two-Footed

Posted under: Dentistry— Aalam Samsavar @ 6:21 pm

We all know that our habits show up in our teeth. Playing hockey, smoking, drinking coffee, flossing less often than we admit to the dentist – they all leave their marks. (And Dr. Samsavar can help you erase all of them.) But Mother Nature has plenty to do with how our smiles turn out, too.

Take wisdom teeth – “third molars,” the experts call them. They’re notoriously troublesome, coming in at odd angles, erupting only partially through the gums, and trapping bits of steak and cereal in dark corners of the mouth where toothbrushes fear to tread. It’s common to have wisdom teeth extracted, whether they’re already giving us trouble or are just likely to do so. If they’re such a nuisance, why do we have them at all?

According to anthropologist Bruce Latimer, wisdom teeth weren’t always a problem.  They’re what he calls a “scar of human evolution,” in particular of the shift from four- to two-footed walking:  “[R]ising from four to two feet resulted in reshaping the face and head, which is why humans suffer with such dental problems as wisdom teeth with no room to grow.” The ability to strut, skip, and sashay came at a price.

Fortunately, evolution also gave humans powerful brains, and we’ve found ways to keep our teeth healthy and attractive. Dr. Samsavar offers a variety of treatments to eliminate discomfort and to heal and transform your smile, ranging from in-office or take-home whitening to porcelain veneers. Please contact us for a free consultation.

Next Page »

» back to top