In order to restore a tooth to full function and beauty, you may require a dental crown. A dental crown can be custom-made from biocompatible materials to ensure a lifelike and holistic restoration. Your Lake Orion MI dentist, Dr. Brad Greenfield, offers our patients esthetically pleasing dental crowns.

Lake Orion Dental Crown Quiz

1. True or False: Crowns fit over the visible portion of the tooth.

2. True or False: Crowns aid in tooth replacement.

3. True or False: With CEREC technology, your Lake Orion MI dentist offers same-day crowns.

4. True or False: Crowns look natural.

Answer Key

1. True. The crown acts as a cap, preserving the remaining tooth structure while preventing further decay or infection. Crowns are also esthetically pleasing and designed to provide years of quality restoration. Simply maintain good dental habits and care for your new restoration as you would your natural teeth.

2. True. A dental crown can be used in a variety of procedures, such as restoring a tooth following a root canal. Crowns also help replace missing teeth, anchoring dental bridges into place and topping dental implants.

3. True. CEREC technology allows your Lake Orion MI dentist to take photos of your tooth and create a digital impression. Using the 3D computer image, the CEREC machine will mill the crown from a block of dental ceramic. After checking the fit for comfort and accuracy, Dr. Greenfield will place the crown using a powerful bonding agent. In just one visit, your can obtain a lifelike restoration.

4.  True. Each crown will be custom-made, using either traditional or digital impressions. The crowns are made from dental porcelain, a metal-free material that is also strong and stain-resistant. We can even shade the crown to ensure your restoration matches surrounding teeth. To learn more about our natural looking and biocompatible restorations, schedule a consultation with Dr. Greenfield today.

About Brad Greenfield: For patients in Lake Orion, MI and surrounding communities, Dr. Greenfield provides quality caring using the latest in holistic and biocompatible dental procedures. To schedule an appointment, contact Lake Orion Family Dentistry at 248-693-6213.

What determines whether I am a good candidate for dental implants?

For healthy adults, dental implants can be an effective option for tooth replacement. Though dental implants boast a 95-98% success rate, smoking, gum disease, osteoporosis, poor bone density, and other factors may hinder the potential for successful implants. Dr. Greenfield has a comprehensive understanding of implants, and he’ll examine your mouth, jaws, and medical and dental history prior to making a recommendation. In some cases, bringing the mouth to full health with treatment or bone grafts can improve a patient’s candidacy for implants.

If dental implants are my best option, what can I expect during the procedure?

After you’re sedated or under local anesthetic, a small, artificial tooth root made of titanium will be implanted into your jawbone for each implant, or a few may be placed to secure a denture. Dr. Greenfield will allow 3 – 6 months for your jawbone to heal and grow around the implant. Following this period of osseointegration, a connection called an abutment will be attached to the top of the posts. Then, your crown or denture can be secured to the abutment(s). The prosthetic will look and function like a natural, healthy part of your mouth.

Is there any after-care involved?

Most people find the implant placement procedure simple and brief. You will be provided with care instructions to follow during the osseointegration period. Smoking should be avoided. After securing your implants, care for them as you do your natural teeth. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential, as well as regular dental check-ups and cleanings. With proper oral care, dental implants can last 25 years or more.

Call Today!

To find out if you’re a good candidate for dental implants, call our office in Lake Orion, MI at 248-693-6213 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Greenfield. We serve patients in Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, Rochester Hills and surrounding areas.

Choosing dental implants as your tooth replacement method is great decision. As the most secure tooth replacement option, getting an implant ensures years of confident smiles. However, before the procedure is conducted, both you and the doctor must have a clear understanding of the process.

Dr. Brad Greenfield, your Lake Orion, MI implant dentist shares the preparatory process before the dental implant procedure takes place.

What to Expect Before the Implantation Procedure

• Comprehensive exam. Once you decide to go through with dental implants, the dentist examines your mouth to ensure you qualify for the procedure. Unfortunately, for patients with low jaw bone mass, dental implants cannot serve as tooth replacement method. Since the implant becomes anchored within the jaw bone, sufficient bone mass is required for the implant procedure to have positive results. If this applies to you, though, your Lake Orion, MI implant dentist can find an alternative tooth replacement.
• Treatment plan. After you’ve been cleared for the procedure, the doctor devises a treatment plan that’s catered to your specific needs. This includes: the number of implants being placed and the details of your jaw bone structure. During this time you may need to visit a couple of specialists.
• Types of anesthesia. Before the surgery, the dentist determines which kind of oral sedation you will utilize. Generally, local anesthesia works just fine. Yet, some patients have allergies to certain types of anesthesia. For those cases, the dentist finds an equivalent anesthesia that’s safe for your use.
• Medications. If you take any kind of medication that isn’t solely the occasional over-the-counter medicine for mild aches and pains, make sure the dentist knows. The medicine you’re currently on may not mix well with anesthesia or any of the recovery medications the doctor prescribes.

Lake Orion Family Dentistry Provides Tooth Replacement Options

Before the dental implant procedure, Dr. Greenfield completes a number of preparations to ensure the surgery is a success. To schedule an appointment with your Lake Orion, MI implant dentist, call (248) 693-6213. Also, visit our website for services, patient forms, and smile gallery. We happily serve patients in Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, Lake Orion, and neighboring communities.

Have you heard about the

When Was CEREC First Introduced?

In early 1980s, a German dentist named, Dr. Werner H. Mörmann wanted to end the use of an external lab to create his ceramic tooth restorations, such as: veneers, inlays, and onlays. His vision was to manufacture these dental pieces in one sitting rather than waiting weeks. With the help of an electrical engineer named, Dr. Marco Brandestrini, the two developed an optical scanning device that would input the information into the machine.

Later, a software engineer named, Dr. Alain Ferru, translated Dr. Mörmann’s work into a program that would transmit information from the scanner to the milling equipment. These three men together, alongside an international team of doctors from a number of areas of expertise, built the first functioning CEREC prototype in 1985. By 1988, the system was being utilized to create only inlays, onlays, and veneers.

In the 1990s, a company named Siemens acquired the machine and made modifications to the model. Today, the CEREC machine can make just about any ceramic-based restoration in minutes with advanced 3D imaging.

CEREC Technology Today

At this time many dental offices have invested in the CEREC milling system, including your Lake Orion, MI dentist. With this technology, there is no longer a need to send impressions to lab for manufacturing. Not only does this cut-down on external costs, the dentist can also make the in-office restorations more affordable. In fact, many dental insurance companies cover the CEREC-made dental pieces.

Have Your CEREC Restorations Made at Lake Orion Family Dental Office

If you’re in need of dental restorations, like, dental implants or crowns, then ask Dr. Greenfield about the CEREC milling machine. With this advancement in dental technology, your smile can become perfectly restored in minutes. At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, we pride ourselves in providing the most effective and convenient dentistry. To schedule an appointment with our Lake Orion, MI dental practice, call (248) 693-6213. Also, visit our website for services, patient forms, and smile gallery. We happily serve patients in Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, Rochester Hills, and neighboring communities.

Did you know millions of Americans are struggling with tooth loss? In fact, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 69% of adults over the age of 35 are missing at least one permanent tooth. By age 74, over 26% have lost all of their teeth. Losing your teeth affects your health, as well as your appearance. Thankfully, at Lake Orion Family Dentistry, we offer a breakthrough technology for replacing missing teeth. In today’s blog, your Lake Orion dentist, Dr. Brad Greenfield, answers questions and explains how dental implants can return your smile to full function and beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Question: What happens when I lose a tooth?

Answer: When you lose even a single tooth, the body stops supplying crucial doses of calcium and phosphorus to the surrounding jawbone. Deprived of these nutrients, the bone begins to degrade. Loss of jawbone density leads to further tooth loss and causes the patient to take on an aged appearance. In addition, the adjacent teeth may drift towards the empty socket, causing unsightly misalignment.

Question: What are dental implants?

Answer: Dental implants are titanium posts inserted into the socket of the missing tooth. The jawbone tissue bonds with the post, anchoring the restoration into place. Finally, a custom-made dental crown is placed on top of the post.

Question: Will my dental implants look natural?

Answer: Yes. The crowns are made from special dental porcelain, which mimics the look and function of tooth enamel. Your implants will look completely natural and blend seamlessly with your smile.

Question: How long will my dental implants last?

Answer: Unlike dental bridges, which last between 10 and 15 years, dental implants can offer up to 25 years of quality restoration.

Question: How do I maintain my dental implants?

Answer: In order to keep your implants secure and free of stains, maintain the same level of care you would for your natural teeth. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once, and avoid foods and drinks high in sugars and other starches. Attend regular checkups and cleanings with your Lake Orion implant dentist, as well.

Schedule a Visit with Your Lake Orion MI Implant Dentist

Interested in restoring your smile with our innovative dental implants? Then call today at 248-693-6213 to schedule an appointment with your Lake Orion MI implant dentist, Dr. Greenfield. Our 48360 dental office proudly serves families from Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, and Rochester Hills, as well as many other areas in southeast Michigan.

Are you searching for a dentist who provides quality dental care for the entire family? If you live in Auburn Hills, you don’t have to look far! Your Auburn Hills dentist, Dr. Brad Greenfield, provides the latest in dental care technology to transform smiles and ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. In today’s blog, Dr. Greenfield discusses the caring, personalized dental care we offer all of our patients.

Minimally Invasive Holistic Care

At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, Dr. Greenfield offers holistic dental procedures using only biocompatible materials. Dr. Greenfield also believes in providing our patients with comfortable, minimally invasive dentistry. Our goal is for your dental restorations to reflect your personality and blend seamlessly with your smile.

Metal-Free Fillings

Dr. Greenfield believes in metal-free dental fillings. Also known as amalgam, metal fillings contain trace amounts of mercury. Amalgam fillings have also been known to expand over time, damaging teeth and exposing the sensitive layers of dentin and pulp to harmful bacteria. Our fillings contain no metal, no mercury, and are made from a special composite resin. The resin can be shaded to match your natural teeth, providing strong and esthetically pleasing cavity repair.

Crowns in One Visit!

We understand the value of your time. Between work and family, who can find the time for endless office visits and multiple procedures? Which is why Dr. Greenfield now provides our patients with innovative CEREC crowns. A crown is a cap that fits over a damaged tooth. Crowns address teeth affected by cavities or trauma, protecting and preserving the remaining tooth structure. Typically, a crown requires two visits and a period of wearing a temporary crown. With CEREC technology, Dr. Greenfield can create and place a custom-made crown in one visit.

Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry

Do you want a brighter smile? Do you have chipped or cracked teeth? What about one or more missing teeth? At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, we offer state-of-the-art dental procedures to restore your smile, including:

• Teeth whitening
• Dental implants
• Porcelain veneers
• Dental bonding

Schedule an Appointment with Your Auburn Hills Family Dentist

Interested in the innovative holistic care offered by Dr. Greenfield and our dedicated staff? Make an appointment with your Auburn Hills family dentist today! Contact Lake Orion Family Dentistry  at 248-693-6213 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve families from Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, and Rochester Hills, as well as many other areas in southeast Michigan.

Are you a Clarkston resident in search of quality dental care? At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, your Clarkston dentist, Dr. Brad Greenfield, provides the latest in dental care technology. To help our patients maintain healthy teeth and gums, we offer general, preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. In today’s blog, Dr. Greenfield discusses some of the innovative procedures we offer our Clarkston patients.

Holistic Dentistry

Dr. Greenfield believes in providing minimally invasive holistic dentistry using only biocompatible materials. We offer patients of all ages natural looking and long lasting dental restorations that blend seamlessly with their smiles. Dr. Greenfield also strives to educate our youngest patients on how to maintain good dental health.

Metal-Free Fillings and Crowns

At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, Dr. Greenfield provides tooth-colored composite fillings. Unlike amalgam, or metal, fillings, our composite fillings contain no traces of mercury. Metal fillings have also been known to expand over time, increasing the risks of further damage to your teeth. Dr. Greenfield also provides metal-free CEREC crowns. Breakthrough CEREC technology allows Dr. Greenfield to create and place a custom-made crown in a single visit.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Do want a brighter smile free of embarrassing discoloration? Do cracks or chips mar your teeth? Dr. Greenfield offers state-of-the-art cosmetic dentistry to transform smiles and address a variety of dental imperfections. Our cosmetic procedures include:

• At-home and in-office teeth whitening
• Porcelain veneers
• Dental bonding

Smile Restoration

For patients with one or more missing teeth, Dr. Greenfield employs an array of restorative dental procedures. With our restorative techniques, your smile can be returned to full function and appearance. Our dental restoration procedures include:

• Dental bridges
• Full and partial dentures
• Implant-retained dentures
• Root canals
• Gum disease treatment
• TMJ disorder treatment

We also offer checkups and cleanings to help maintain good dental health. Checkups allow Dr. Greenfield to watch for the signs of serious dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease, and also screen for oral cancer. Early detection enables Dr. Greenfield to provide the appropriate treatment before these issues develop any further.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Clarkston Family Dentist

Interested in the innovative holistic care offered by Dr. Greenfield and our dedicated staff? Make an appointment with your Clarkston family dentist today! Contact Lake Orion Family Dentistry  at 248-693-6213 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve families from Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, and Rochester Hills, as well as many other areas in southeast Michigan.

A beautiful smile can boost your confidence. In fact, a recent Kelton Research study showed that many Americans view people with bright, beautiful smiles as more attractive and successful than people with misaligned or stained teeth. Lake Orion Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Brad Greenfield, realizes the importance of a beautiful smile and wants to help you enjoy the winning smile you deserve. With cosmetic and restorative dentistry, the Lake Orion Family Dentistry team can improve your smile and repair damage to your teeth. Not only will you feel more confident about your smile, but receiving proper dental care helps ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Greenfield explains a few popular cosmetic dental procedures in today’s blog post.

Brighten Your Smile

For a variety of reasons, over time, our smiles can lose their youthful shine. At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, Dr. Greenfield offers the latest in cosmetic dentistry to brighten your smile. Dr. Greenfield will meet with you to discuss your cosmetic and dental health goals, then provide an oral examination to determine which of our cosmetic techniques is best for correcting your smile. Dr. Greenfield can straighten crooked teeth, close unsightly gaps between teeth, erase permanent stains, and repair chipped or cracked teeth.

Our most popular cosmetic dental procedures include:

• In-office and At-home Teeth Whitening
• Porcelain Veneers
• Cosmetic Bonding

Smile Restoration

Dr. Greenfield provides some of the most recent innovations in restorative dentistry. He cares for the safety and comfort of our patients, which is why he offers holistic dentistry and minimally invasive procedures. He can replace missing teeth, repair severe tooth decay, and treat gum disease. Our most popular restorative procedures include:

• CEREC Crowns (tooth-colored porcelain)
• Tooth-colored Fillings (composite resin)
• Dental Bridges (metal-free)
• Implant-Retained Dentures

Schedule an Appointment with Your Lake Orion Dentist

Interested in renewing your smile this year? Make an appointment with cosmetic dentist Dr. Greenfield to see which procedures are right for you. Contact Lake Orion Family Dentistry today at 248-693-6213 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve families from Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, and Rochester Hills, as well as many other areas in southeast Michigan.

Turkey Talk

Birds use their stomach acids and intestinal tracts to digest the food they eat. Although turkeys don’t sport a set of chompers, they can extract the nutrients they require from their food without teeth. Through a complex process of absorption, saliva, the stomach, and the colon all aid in the digestive process.  Unfortunately, humans don’t possess the same kind of enzymes and acids which can break down food without chewing. Our saliva, stomachs, and colons can do quite a bit, but humans still need their teeth to break down food.

Adult Tooth Loss

Tooth loss occurs in numerous individuals throughout the world. Studies indicate that one half of Americans will suffer from adult tooth loss at some point during their life. The primary cause of adult tooth loss is gum disease. Most patients show signs of gum disease and gum recession when they age. Some symptoms of gum disease include halitosis, repeated bacterial infections, dry mouth, and bleeding gums. Gum disease can cause more than tooth loss though.

Issues associated with heart diseases, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, and even problems with hip replacements all link back to gum disease. If you do suffer from adult tooth loss, dental implants could provide a solution to your issue of replacing missing teeth. Implants consist of a titanium post and a ceramic post designed to look and function like natural teeth. You could continue eating all of your favorite holiday foods with dental implants.

Schedule Your Lake Orion Dental Visit

At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, we can provide you with comprehensive dental care for the whole family. Contact our Lake Orion dental implant office by calling (248) 693-6213 to schedule an appointment today. We proudly serve families from Lake Orion, Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, and Rochester Hills, the 48360 zip code, as well as many other areas in Michigan.

Recent studies indicate that the presence of periodontal disease can increase a person’s risk for developing dementia. Studies also show that Alzheimer’s patients with gum disease suffer from decreased mental function.  Your Lake Orion implant dentist, Dr. Brad Greenfield, discusses Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and dental implants.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease affects cognitive mental functions. Typically, this disease affects the elderly more than younger individuals, but diminished mental function can occur earlier in life.  A recent NYU study measured the cognitive mental function of 152 Alzheimer’s patients. Signs of periodontal disease and inflammation appeared in half of the test subjects, while the half maintained optimal oral health.

The scientists conducted studies which tested the two groups’ ability to pair number sequences with symbol-digit pairs. This type of test appears frequently on adult IQ tests to measure cognitive ability. The study concluded that Alzheimer’s patients with periodontal disease tested significantly lower than their counterparts without periodontal disease.

Dental Implants and Alzheimer’s

Periodontal disease serves as the leading cause of adult tooth loss in America. Another recent study determined that maintaining chewing ability greatly impacted a person’s likelihood of maintaining mental functions later in life. Dental implants can reliable replace missing teeth. Patients can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth with dental implants.

Opting for dental implants enables patients to continue supplying their brain with sufficient blood flow. The role of blood flow impacts brain health greatly. If patients can still chew hard foods like apples, then their risk for developing dementia decreases significantly.

Schedule Your Visit

Interested in learning more about gum disease, chewing ability, and Alzheimer’s disease? At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, we can provide you with more information about these studies, as well as comprehensive dental care for the whole family. Contact our Lake Orion dental implant office by calling (248) 693-6213 to schedule an appointment today. We proudly serve families from Lake Orion, Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, and Rochester Hills, the 48360 zip code, as well as many other areas in Michigan.